Better ways to measure your blood pressure at home
Knowing how to track your blood pressure at home can make it a lot easier to manage your health. Here’s what you need to know.
How to choose an at-home BP monitor
- Opt for an automatic, upper-arm cuff. Get a recommendation from validatebp.org, supported by the AMA.
- If you can, check the fit before you buy.
How to get an accurate reading
- Put on a short-sleeve shirt.
- Sit with your legs uncrossed and rest your arm on a solid surface, at heart level. Slightly bend your arm, palm up.
- Place the cuff on bare skin, just above your elbow.
- Avoid exercise or caffeine for 30 minutes before measuring.
- Stay still and do not talk or move during the reading.
- Take your blood pressure at the same time daily.
Everything You Need in One Convenient Place
Manage your benefits, find doctors, review claims, and more through AvMed’s secure member portal. Create your account or sign in now.
What the numbers mean
- The top number (systolic) measures pressure during a beat.
- The bottom number (diastolic) measures pressure between beats.
How can I improve my numbers?
- Exercise daily.
- Eat heart-healthy foods.
- Limit alcohol and quit smoking.
When should I talk to my doctor?
A single high reading is not usually a cause for alarm. But if your readings are consistently above your target, contact your physician.
