Should You Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home?

Do you have hypertension or have you been told your blood pressure was high the last time you had it checked at your doctor's office? These are both situations where close monitoring of the blood pressure is important. If you don't have the time to keep running back and forth to your doctor's office to have your pressure checked, why not consider starting a home blood pressure measurement program? There are a variety of home blood pressure devices that will allow you to quickly and easily check your pressure throughout the day.

The advantages of doing home blood pressure measurement are numerous. You're more likely to get a “true” reading of your pressure when you're not in a stressful environment plus you can get readings at various times of the day. Although you could use one of the blood pressure devices found at local grocery stores and drugstores, these machines are not as accurate as they should be due to variations in arm size. Once you learn the procedure, you'll find it quick and easy to check your blood pressure at home. You can also check your family's blood pressure and keep accurate records they can show their doctor when they have their routine physical.

Home blood pressure measurement can be particularly important if you have “white coat hypertension”. White coat hypertension is simply a term for blood pressure that's elevated in the doctor's office but is normal at home. White coat hypertension needs to be followed closely since it can be a warning sign of hypertension requiring treatment. Some studies also suggest that white coat hypertension could be an indicator of early heart problems. By using a home blood pressure device, you can keep a journal of home readings taken at various times of the day to present to your doctor.

If you decide to check your blood pressure at home, there are two types of home blood pressure devices available to you. The first are manual blood pressure cuffs. With a manual device, you receive a blood pressure cuff hooked to a gauge. After placing the cuff on the arm and pumping it up, you'll use a stethoscope to check the blood pressure by looking at a gauge. These home blood pressure devices have a learning curve but they're fairly inexpensive and accurate once you learn the technique.

An easier type of home blood pressure device to use is a digital blood pressure monitor. With this set-up, you get a cuff with an attached gauge that checks your blood pressure automatically without the need for a stethoscope. This is device much easier for a beginner to use but can be costly. You can also buy digital home blood pressure devices for the wrist and finger but these are not as accurate. It's important when choosing a blood pressure cuff that it be the appropriate size for your arm or you won't get an a true blood pressure reading.

Once you have your blood pressure measurement device, use it to take readings three times a day and record it in a journal. Do this for a week to get an idea of how your blood pressures run throughout the day. Repeat this process every few months or when a change is made to your blood pressure medication. Keep these records for your doctor.

Home blood pressure measurement is an easy and affordable way to follow your blood pressures without the stress of frequent medical office visits. It's a great way to take better control over your health.