How to Check Blood Pressure From Home

Can you check your blood pressure at home?

Yes, you can check your blood pressure from the comfort of your own home. Checking your blood pressure from home is a great way to stay informed about your health, especially if you’re managing conditions like hypertension. In this guide, we’ll go over how to use a home blood pressure monitor, what your readings mean, and how often you should check your blood pressure to stay on top of your health.

Key Takeaways

Using a Home Monitor

For accurate results, sit calmly with your feet flat and arm supported. Place the cuff just above your elbow, start the monitor, and avoid moving or talking. Take multiple readings and average them for the best accuracy.

Understanding Readings

Blood pressure includes two numbers: systolic (upper) and diastolic (lower). Normal levels are 90–120 mmHg (systolic) and 60–80 mmHg (diastolic). High blood pressure (over 140/90) increases health risks, while low blood pressure (below 90/60) may cause dizziness or fainting.

How Often to Check

For those with high blood pressure, check twice daily; if your blood pressure is healthy, once a year or every five years (with no other risks) is generally sufficient. Regular checks can help you track and manage your blood pressure effectively.

How do I use a home blood pressure monitor?

When you buy a home blood pressure monitor, it will come with instructions. Despite this, some people will still struggle, leading to inaccurate results and potential misdiagnosis of low, or high, blood pressure. However, following these general steps will ensure you get accurate readings:

Step 1: Rest and Relax

Make sure you’re calm and sitting comfortably. Sit quietly for a few minutes before taking a reading, as stress or movement can raise your blood pressure temporarily.

Step 2: Position Your Body Correctly

• Sit with your feet flat on the floor and your arm resting on a table.

• Make sure your arm is supported and relaxed, with your palm facing up.

Step 3: Place the Cuff Properly

• Wrap the cuff around your upper arm, just above your elbow, with the tubing running down the inside of your arm.

• You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the cuff and your arm.

Step 4: Start the Monitor and Stay Still

Press the ‘start’ or ‘on’ button to begin. The cuff will inflate, then slowly deflate, taking your blood pressure as it does. Try not to move or talk during the reading to avoid inaccurate results.

Step 5: Record the Reading

When the reading appears on the monitor, write down the numbers for future reference.

Step 6: Repeat for Accuracy

To ensure accuracy, take two or three readings with a few minutes of rest in between each one. Averaging these readings can help you get the most reliable result.

• By getting multiple readings you will be able to notice any anomalies in the results that may have occurred for different reasons, for example, if you are not relaxed enough. 

Understanding Blood Pressure Readings

Your blood pressure reading includes two numbers measured in mmHg (millimetres of mercury):

• Systolic (upper number): This shows your blood pressure when your heart beats.

• Diastolic (lower number): This shows your blood pressure when your heart rests between beats.

What Do the Numbers Mean?

 The NHS defines the following ranges for blood pressure:

• Normal Blood Pressure: Systolic between 90–120 mmHg and diastolic between 60–80 mmHg.

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Systolic above 140 mmHg or diastolic above 90 mmHg.

• Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Systolic below 90 mmHg or diastolic below 60 mmHg.

If your systolic reading is between 120–140 mmHg or your diastolic is between 80–90 mmHg, you may be at risk of developing high blood pressure and should consider lifestyle adjustments or consulting with a doctor.

How can I reduce my blood pressure with simple lifestyle changes:

• Learn how you can reduce high blood pressure with simple lifestyle changes.

Risks of Hypertension and Hypotension

• Hypertension (high blood pressure) increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.

• Hypotension (low blood pressure) can cause symptoms like dizziness, fainting, and nausea.

Checking Blood Pressure Without a Monitor

If you don’t have a monitor, there is no reliable way to check your blood pressure at home. However, you can check your heart rate by placing your fingers on your pulse, counting beats for 10 seconds, and multiplying by six. This will give you your heart rate (beats per minute), but it won’t indicate your blood pressure. For accurate blood pressure readings, it’s best to use a monitor.

How Often Should You Check Your Blood Pressure?

How often you check your blood pressure will depend on your overall health:

• For those with healthy blood pressure: An annual check with your doctor or once every five years if no risks are present.

• For those with high blood pressure: Aim to check at least twice daily, taking multiple readings each time to confirm accuracy.

Regular monitoring can help you maintain healthy blood pressure, spot potential issues early, and stay in control of your health.