Measuring your blood pressure at home is easy once you get the hang of it. Here are some tips on getting more accurate readings:
1) Avoid: caffeine, meals, exercise, and smoking for at least 30 minutes before measuring.
2) Get comfortable: Sit with both feet on the floor, legs uncrossed, and your back supported for at least five minutes. Rest your arms on a flat surface.
3) After you’ve rested for five minutes, take at least two readings one minute apart.
4) Record your readings in a notebook, app, or use a tracking sheet like this one.
5) Share these records with your doctor during appointments.
When? How Often?
Follow your doctor’s instructions on how often they would like you to take your blood pressure readings.
But, as a general guideline:
Take your blood pressure readings twice a day: once in the morning and once in the evening.
A good time to take your blood pressure is in the morning before you take any medications, and again in the evening before dinner.
Here is a video demonstration:
When to Seek Medical Help
- If you notice very high numbers (for example, systolic above 180 or diastolic above 120) more than once, call your doctor (or 8-1-1 in BC) right away.
- If you feel severe headaches, chest pain, trouble breathing, or confusion, seek medical help immediately.