Half of all Americans have high blood pressure – and many don’t even know it.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is when blood flows through your arteries at higher than normal pressures. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the United States.
It's important to get an accurate blood pressure reading so that you have a clearer picture of your risk for heart disease and stroke. Adults should have their blood pressure checked regularly by a healthcare professional. If your numbers are high, your provider may suggest self-measuring at home. Self-measurement provides more readings over a longer time, which better represents your true blood pressure.
Tips for Self-Measurement at Home
- Avoid exercising, eating a meal, drinking caffeine, or smoking for 30 min before.
- If you are on blood pressure medication, measure your blood pressure before you take your medication.
- Go to the bathroom and empty your bladder beforehand.
- Find a quiet space with a table and chair and no distractions.
- Sit in a chair with your back supported, legs uncrossed, and feet flat on the floor.
- Sit and relax for five minutes before taking your blood pressure reading.
- Measure on a bare arm when possible; do not put cuff over clothing.
- Rest your arm on the table so it’s supported with the cuff located at heart level.
- Keep your arm supported and your palm up during the reading
Remember, small changes in your body position, environment, or activities all have a potential impact on your blood pressure readings. Whether a measurement is being taken in a healthcare office or at home, proper technique is essential. Paying attention to these details can help avoid a misdiagnosis of hypertension and inappropriate prescription of anti-hypertension medication.