Monitoring Your Own Blood Pressure

Uncontrolled high blood pressure can cause stroke, heart failure, and heart attacks. If you have high blood pressure, monitoring it regularly should be a priority for you.

Monitoring your own blood pressure at home can bring great peace of mind. Not only will it bring you peace of mind, it will provide your doctor with very valuable information on how well your blood pressure is being controlled. This can be accomplished in your own home with the proper blood pressure monitoring device.

There a couple types of blood pressure monitoring devices. Weighing the advantages and disadvantages can help you decide which is right for you. Your doctor should be able to discuss the options with you and help you decide what type of device is best.

Digital monitors are the most popular and easy to use blood pressure monitoring devices. They come with both manual and automatic cuffs for your arm. The reading displays automatically on a screen and is very easy to read. Some digital monitors will even provide you with a printed readout. They also come equipped with error indicators that will let you know if the test was unsuccessful. This is helpful in the event that the cuff is not in the proper position on your arm. These are also great for hearing impaired people because there is no need to listen for heartbeats. Accuracy, however, can be affected by an irregular heartbeat. They require batteries and can be expensive, upwards of $200.00.

Aneroid, or manual monitors have a dial gauge and are read by a pointer. The cuff is inflated by hand by squeezing the bulb on the end. Aneroid monitors are convenient to carry and come with a stethoscope built in. They are less expensive than digital monitors and can cost $20.00 to $40.00. This type of monitor, however, can be difficult for someone who is hearing impaired because it requires listening to heartbeats. It can also be difficult for someone with arthritis to squeeze the bulb properly. Aneroid monitors are also fragile, and can become damaged easily.

Before testing your blood pressure, sit quietly for several minutes in a chair with good back support. You will need to make sure to bring your arm to about heart level when performing the test. Rest your arm on a table. The cuff for the monitor should be about one inch above your elbow and should fit snugly. Always follow all instructions provided with your blood pressure monitor. It may also be a good idea to take your monitor with you to the doctor. They can test it for accuracy and make sure you understand the proper procedures for using it.

Anyone with high blood pressure should monitor it regularly. Keep track of your readings and provide them to your doctor. They will be very helpful to your doctor in determining fluctuations in your blood pressure. They will also help your doctor determine if you are on the correct medicine and dosage. High blood pressure, if left uncontrolled, can cause life threatening health problems. Even if you are not experiencing any symptoms, uncontrolled blood pressure can be extremely dangerous. You owe it to yourself and your family to take care of it. Always remember to check with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about home blood pressure monitoring.