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Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often called a “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms. High blood pressure quietly damages blood vessels and leads to serious health problems.

There is no cure. But using medications as prescribed and making lifestyle changes can improve your quality of life and control your blood pressure. These actions also can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and more.

Know your numbers.

If you’re diagnosed with high blood pressure, you should monitor your blood pressure regularly. Knowing your numbers can alert you to changes in your blood pressure and help you see patterns. Tracking your results over time will also show if lifestyle changes you’ve made are working.

Choosing a home blood pressure monitor

  • Wrist and finger monitors are not recommended. They give less reliable readings. Choose a monitor that has been validated. If you are unsure, ask your health care professional or pharmacist for advice.
  • When choosing a blood pressure monitor for a senior, person who is pregnant or child, make sure it is validated for them.
  • Make sure the cuff fits. Measure around your upper arm and choose a monitor that comes with the correct cuff size.

Once you’ve purchased your monitor, take it to your next appointment. Have your health care professional check to see that you are using it correctly and getting the same results as the equipment in the office. Plan to bring your monitor in once a year, or as directed by the company, to make sure the readings are accurate.

How to use a home blood pressure monitor

  • Plan ahead. Don’t smoke, drink caffeinated beverages or exercise within 30 minutes before taking your blood pressure. Empty your bladder.
  • Don’t take the measurement over clothes. Remove the clothing over the arm that will be used to measure blood pressure.
  • You can use either arm. Usually there is not a big difference between readings on them.
  • Be still. Allow at least five minutes of quiet rest before measurements. Don’t talk or use the phone.
  • Sit correctly. Sit with your back straight and supported (on a dining chair, rather than a sofa). Your feet should be flat on the floor. Do not cross your legs. Support your arm on a flat surface. The middle of the cuff should be placed on the upper arm at heart level. Check your monitor’s instructions for an illustration or have your health care professional show you how.
  • Measure at the same time every day. Take the readings at the same time each day. Talk with your health care professional about how often to take your blood pressure.
  • Take multiple readings and record the results. Each time you measure, take two readings one minute apart. Record the results using a printable (PDF) tracker. If your monitor has built-in memory to store your readings, take it with you to your medical appointments. Some monitors may also let you upload your readings to a secure website.

 

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