Measuring your own blood pressure at home doesn’t have to be a chore. It’s likely something that you’re doing every day. So you should get into a routine that is comfortable and easy. Here are a few simple steps and tips to can get an accurate reading at home…
Step 1: Settle down, and sit comfortably.
Make sure that you’re sitting upright with both feet on the floor and arms at your sides. It’s important that you don’t exercise, smoke, or drink for at least 30 minutes before your reading. Any of these activities might trigger a temporary change in your results. If you can, sit quietly for up to 10 minutes before your reading. This helps to settle your body and mind.
Step 2: Use your device to take 2 or 3 readings.
Always, be sure to follow the specific directions for your blood pressure device! Different devices have different instructions, so it’s important that you know all those details before getting started. Also, remember that taking just 1 reading isn’t always accurate. Instead it’s better to repeat 2 or 3 times, waiting about a minute between each. That way you’ll see if the numbers are coming out about the same.
Step 3: Record your results.
Keep a record of the date, time, and reading numbers from this session. There are many ways to record your blood pressure readings. Some are digital, and others are by hand. But whatever way you do it, a record of your daily readings is so helpful! Because then you can start to notice big or small changes when you track your numbers over time.
Step 4: Repeat daily.
So now the important thing is to do it again tomorrow… The benefit of home readings is in the consistency. If you miss a day, don’t worry – but do get back to it! Try to do take your blood pressure reading around the same time each day. Your morning numbers are likely not the same as your numbers at the end of the work day. So think of a time (or times) that you can commit to keeping.
To really control your blood pressure, you really have to be active in your pursuit of good health!
If you have high blood pressure, it’s so important to take care of your body. This means staying informed and making good choices – like knowing the leading causes of high blood pressure and practicing simple habits to reduce stress, as well as choosing heart-healthy supplements.
