Blood pressure measurement and monitoring tips

Hyderabad, November 28: Nowadays many people are witnessed about the High Blood pressure even at the young stage now according to the Health experts they recommend that people with high blood pressure should monitor their blood pressure at home.

This is particularly important because regular BP readings can help keep blood pressure within the normal range. Hence, the American Heart Association (AHA) and other organisations’ guidelines stress the importance of home monitoring for optimal high blood pressure management.

A new research claims that home blood pressure monitoring can actually improve hypertension control and save medical costs as well.

According to a study presented at the American Heart Association s Joint Hypertension 2018 Scientific Sessions in Chicago, approximately 86 per cent of patients who did use home blood pressure monitoring had their hypertension under control. While home monitoring can help keep your BP under control and track your treatment, it’s important that you know how to use the machine correctly.

Here are a few tips to help ensure accurate blood pressure monitoring at home.

If you’re using a BP monitor for the first time, have your device checked by your doctor or a nurse before using it to check its accuracy against the office model. Also, ask your doctor to teach you how to use your device correctly.

Sit quietly for 5 minutes before monitoring your blood pressure. Do not talk while measuring your BP.
Avoid measuring your blood pressure right after you wake up. You should also avoid taking breakfast or medications before the test.

Avoid caffeinated beverage, tobacco or alcohol for 30 minutes before taking a blood pressure measurement.
Ensure that your arm is elevated to the level of your heart by placing it on on a table, desk or chair arm.

Wrap the cuff around the upper part of your arm - the cuff should be smooth and placed on the bare skin, not over covering.

Have your blood pressure measured twice daily - first in the morning and the second in the evening.
Repeat the measurement to check the accuracy of your BP readings, however, you should wait for 2-3 minutes before starting the next reading.