Managing blood pressure is quite challenging for many people. With a blood pressure monitor at home, you can find it easier to record your blood pressure readings with a lot of accuracy. Here are 5 tips that you can follow, to make BP monitoring more accurate:
Use the right monitor
First and foremost, get a validated monitor, reviewed independently for accuracy. You should try to avoid the use of BP monitors that use cuffs on your fingertip or wrist.
Look for a proper cuff size
Try to measure your upper arm circumference, midway between your shoulder and elbow. The reader can be artificially high if you use a blood pressure monitor with too small cuff. The reading can be false and low with a loose cuffed monitor.
Prepare right
Here are some things to follow:
Do not take readings within 30 minutes of working out, consuming caffeinated beverages, smoking or eating.
Do not monitor on a full bladder, as your BP readings can be high.
While monitoring, sit comfortably with both feet on floor, legs uncrossed, and back supported.
Avoid the use of electronic devices or talking on them while taking readings.
Put your cuff on your bare skin, with no clothing layer or anything coming in between. Place it in such a way that the middle area of your cuff stays at heart level.
Do not settle with a single reading
Two readings should be taken at least 1 minute apart. Track BP readings and record them with the built-in memory of your blood pressure monitor or by using a printable tracker.
Consult your doctor
It is essential for you to have a talk with your physician. Discuss how frequently you need to monitor your BP and what your blood pressure results actually indicate.
By following these 5 tips, you can monitor your BP at home with full accuracy.
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