Measuring your blood pressure regularly is part of managing your heart health
Blood pressure isn’t usually something you can feel. You can have high blood pressure without any symptoms. Using a blood pressure monitor is the only way to tell whether your blood pressure is within a healthy range or not. You can have your blood pressure measured by a doctor, nurse or pharmacist. But you can also do this at home using a validated machine.
Regularly measuring your blood pressure at home allows you to easily track your readings. You can communicate any changes in your blood pressure with your healthcare team. In some cases, your doctor might need to make changes to your blood pressure medicines.
Here are some practical tips to help you measure your blood pressure at home.
Choose the right device
It’s important that you only buy blood pressure devices that have been tested for accuracy. Speak to a healthcare professional or find approved devices listed on the British and Irish Hypertension Society website.
Finger and/or wrist blood pressure devices are not recommended.
Taking your blood pressure
Follow the steps below to make sure your blood pressure reading is as accurate as possible.
1. Prepare properly
- Avoid caffeine, exercise or smoking for at least 30 minutes before taking your blood pressure as these things can raise your blood pressure.
- Ensure you have an empty bladder.
- Sit quietly for about five minutes before taking a reading. Make sure you are comfortable, not stressed or in pain.
2. Get into position
- Sit in a comfortable position with your back supported and feet flat on the floor. Don’t cross your legs.
- Rest your arm on a surface that is level with your heart.
3. Apply the cuff properly
- Push up your sleeve and put the cuff directly on your bare skin, not over clothing. Position the cuff snugly around your upper arm, leaving enough space for one finger to fit between the cuff and your arm.
4. Take your reading
- Push the start button on your device. Relax as much as possible and avoid talking during the reading.
- Remove the cuff when it has fully deflated, and the reading is finished.
Keeping track of your readings
- Measure your blood pressure for seven days (minimum of five days) at around the same time in the morning and in the evening.
- Each time you measure, take two readings, a few minutes apart. Record the average of the two readings.
- Record your daily readings in a paper or digital diary that you can take to your next healthcare appointment.
- Download our My blood pressure diary resource to keep track of your readings.
Check in with your healthcare professional
Share your home blood pressure readings with your healthcare professional during your regular check-ups. They can offer guidance based on your readings and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
