Many people monitor their blood pressure at home. They often do this to manage or treat a certain health condition. If you monitor your blood pressure at home, keep a record or log of the measurements. The record shows your doctor how your blood pressure changes throughout the day. If you take medicines to control your blood pressure, it will help document if they are working. Measuring your blood pressure at home is a good way to actively manage your health. Show
Path to improved well beingWhat equipment do I need to measure my blood pressure at home?To measure your blood pressure at home, you can use either an aneroid (manual) monitor or digital monitor. Choose the type of monitor that best meets your needs. Look at the following features when you select a monitor.
Tests show that finger and wrist devices do not always provide correct measurements. These devices are sensitive to placement and body temperature. They also are expensive and can cost more than $100. Aneroid monitorThe aneroid monitor manually checks your blood pressure. It has a gauge that you read by looking at a pointer on the dial. The cuff goes around your upper arm, and you squeeze a rubber bulb to inflate it by hand. Aneroid monitors often cost less than digital monitors. They range in price from about $20 to $40. The cuff has a built-in stethoscope. You don’t need to buy a separate one. The unit may have a feature that makes it easy to put the cuff on with one hand. It also is portable and can be carried easily from one place to another. There are some drawbacks to the aneroid monitor. It is a complex device that can be damaged easily and become less accurate. The device may be hard to use if it doesn’t have a metal ring to tighten the cuff. This is what makes it easier to put on the cuff. Additionally, the rubber bulb that inflates the cuff may be hard to squeeze. This type of monitor may not be best for hearing-impaired people, because of the need to listen to your heartbeat through the stethoscope. Digital monitorDigital monitors are more popular for measuring blood pressure. They often are easier to use than aneroid units. The digital monitor has a gauge and stethoscope in one unit. It also has an error indicator. The blood pressure reading displays on a small screen. This may be easier to read than a dial. Some units even have a paper printout that gives you a record of the reading. Inflation of the cuff is either automatic or manual, depending on the model. Deflation is automatic. Digital monitors are good for hearing-impaired patients, since there is no need to listen to your heartbeat through the stethoscope. There are some drawbacks to the digital monitor. Body movements or an irregular heart rate can affect its accuracy. Some models only work on the left arm. This can make them hard for some patients to use. Digital monitors are more expensive. They range in price from about $30 to more than $100. They also require batteries. How do I know if my monitor is accurate or if I am using it correctly?Once you buy your device, have your doctor check it for accuracy. They should check your monitor once a year. On your own, periodically check the tubing for cracks and leaks. Proper care and storage are necessary. Make sure the tubing is not twisted when you store it. Keep it away from heat. Ask your doctor or nurse to teach you how to use your blood pressure monitor correctly. This will help you achieve good results in controlling your blood pressure. How do I measure my blood pressure?Before you check your blood pressure, you should:
Below are the steps to take to use an aneroid monitor.
Below are the steps to take to use a digital monitor.
Things to considerWhat does my blood pressure reading mean?Normal blood pressure is 120/80 or lower. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher. If your blood pressure is between 120/80 and 140/90, you may have something called prehypertension. This means that you are at risk for high blood pressure. If you have diabetes or kidney disease, high blood pressure ranges may be lower than for other people. Or, if you are older than 65, goal blood pressure may be higher. Talk to your doctor about what is considered high blood pressure for you. Medical termsMonitoring your blood pressure at home can be confusing. Below is a list of terms that are helpful to know.
When to see the doctorThe doctor should check your monitor at least once a year. This ensures that the measurements are accurate. Only a doctor can diagnose you with high blood pressure. A diagnosis requires multiple readings, so keeping a log is important. You should also log the time of day you you’re your blood pressure. Contact your doctor if you have high readings for several days. Be sure to take your blood pressure log with you to the visit. Hypotension is low blood pressure. This occurs when your systolic pressure is consistently below 90 or is 25 points below your normal reading. Contact your doctor if you have low readings. Hypotension can be a sign of shock, which is life threatening. Call your doctor right away if you are dizzy or lightheaded. What is the best way to take blood pressure at home?How to measure your blood pressure at home using a home monitor. Follow the instructions that came with your monitor. ... . Place the arm cuff just above your elbow. ... . Keep still and quiet while you take your reading. ... . Take two or three readings, each about one to two minutes apart. ... . Keep a record of your measurements.. How can I check my blood pressure at home without a machine?To measure your pulse, you need a watch with a second hand.. Place your index and middle finger of your hand on the inner wrist of the other arm, just below the base of the thumb.. You should feel a tapping or pulsing against your fingers.. Count the number of taps you feel in 10 seconds.. How can I check my blood pressure at home by hand?If you are using a manual monitor:. Hold the pressure gauge in your left hand and the bulb in your right.. Close the airflow valve on the bulb by turning the screw clockwise.. Inflate the cuff by squeezing the bulb with your right hand. ... . Watch the gauge.. |