What should be known about choosing and using an at-home blood pressure monitor for heart disease management?
Monitoring blood pressure at home is a great way to stay on top of heart health between doctor visits. At-home readings can actually be more accurate than those taken at a clinic, since some people experience Show Full Answer
What should be known about choosing and using an at-home blood pressure monitor for heart disease management?
Monitoring blood pressure at home is a great way to stay on top of heart health between doctor visits. At-home readings can actually be more accurate than those taken at a clinic, since some people experience higher readings due to anxiety in medical settings.
When choosing a monitor, here are some key tips:
- Look for an automatic monitor with an upper arm cuff (these tend to be more accurate than wrist monitors)
- Make sure it's been validated/approved for your age and sex
- Check that it's easy to read and ideally uploads or stores your data
For the most reliable readings, follow these guidelines:
- Take readings at the same time each day
- Avoid smoking, exercise, or caffeine for 30 minutes beforehand
- Sit still and upright with the cuff directly on your skin
- Take two readings, one minute apart, and record them
Knowing your numbers matters too. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg. If it hits 180/120 mm Hg or higher, seek medical help immediately — that's a cardiac emergency.
Always check with a cardiologist before purchasing a monitor to make sure it suits your specific needs.
June 10
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