Measuring your blood pressure at home can be a helpful way to monitor your cardiovascular health and track any changes over time. Here are seven ways to measure blood pressure at home.
Choosing A Blood Pressure Monitor
You should choose a good quality blood pressure monitor and ensure it is regularly calibrated.
Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor
You can use an automatic monitor consisting of an arm cuff that inflates and deflates automatically, a display screen to show the readings, and a built-in mechanism to measure blood pressure.
Follow The Instructions
You should follow the instructions carefully and take readings at the same time each day.
Avoid Certain Activities
You should also avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking for at least 30 minutes before taking a reading.
Sit Quietly
You should sit quietly with your back supported and feet flat on the floor for at least five minutes before taking a reading.
Taking Readings
You should take two or three readings, separated by one to two minutes, and record the average.
Talking To Doctor
After you take your share your readings with your healthcare provider to help guide treatment decisions.
Conclusion
While checking your blood pressure at home can help you track your health better, it is always recommended to talk to your doctor and take regular screening tests.