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Monitoring at home
As you manage your blood pressure, you may want to monitor your blood pressure at home. By keeping a record of your readings between doctor visits, you can provide your doctor with important information. You may also find that you'll be more motivated to stick with your treatment plan. And that may result in better control of your blood pressure.
Here are some tips on getting the right monitor:
- The cuff should fit properly or the reading will be inaccurate. Ask your doctor what size cuff you should get.
- The display should be easy for you to read.
- If you are using a stethoscope, make sure you can hear the sounds clearly. Ask your doctor how to interpret the sounds.
- Have your doctor check the accuracy of your monitor against the monitor used in the office. Also, use your monitor in front of your doctor, the first time, to make sure you are using it correctly.
Here are some tips to help you get started on monitoring at home:
- Take your blood pressure twice daily; once during the day, and once in the evening.
- Blood pressure tends to be high in the early morning. So wait an hour or so. If you exercise in the morning, take your reading before exercising.
- Prepare as you would for a reading at your doctor's office. Click here for tips.
- Record your reading.
- Remember, blood pressure varies throughout the day. But contact your doctor if you have any unusual or persistent increases in your blood pressure.
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