How to check your blood pressure at home (and what the numbers mean)
Home readings are often more useful than the one we take in the clinic. Here is how to get an accurate reading and when to call us.
A single blood-pressure reading in the clinic tells us less than you might think. Many people run high in the waiting room and normal at home; a few run the other way. That is why, if you have high blood pressure or are being checked for it, we will usually ask you to measure at home.
Choosing a monitor
Use an automatic upper-arm cuff. Wrist and finger monitors are less reliable. Check that the cuff size matches your arm; a cuff that is too small reads high. Bring your monitor to your next visit so we can compare it against ours.
Taking a reading
- Sit quietly for five minutes first, feet flat, back supported.
- No caffeine, exercise or smoking for 30 minutes before.
- Rest your arm on a table so the cuff is at heart level.
- Take two readings a minute apart and write both down.
- Measure in the morning before medication and again in the evening, for seven days.
What the numbers mean
The top number (systolic) is the pressure when your heart beats; the bottom (diastolic) is the pressure between beats. For most adults, a home average under 130/80 is the goal. A home average of 135/85 or higher is generally considered high. Your own target may be different depending on your age and other conditions, so check with your provider.
When to call
Call the clinic if your average is consistently above your target, or if you get a reading over 180/120. If that high reading comes with chest pain, a severe headache, vision changes or weakness, call 911.