Uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure) increases risk of stroke, heart disease, heart failure, and kidney damage. Hypertension affects individuals of all ages and ethnicities, yet too many people remain unaware and many others struggle to control it effectively.  

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Why Measure Your Blood Pressure?

 

Healthcare experts emphasize the importance of monitoring blood pressure both during medical visits and at home to calculate your average or baseline blood pressure. There are two main reasons for this recommendation. The first reason is that readings at the doctor's office are sometimes too high or too low and do not represent your baseline. Secondly, "baseline" or average blood pressure readings represent your true blood pressure and thus your cardiovascular risks.

 

We recommend that you prepare for your provider visits by checking and documenting your blood pressure readings the week prior to your appointment. This information plus the readings at the appointment will give your provider a better picture of your numbers, allowing them to the adjust therapy selection and dosing appropriately.

 

Spot measurements at the provider's office may not be consistent with the average or baseline blood pressure.

• If higher than true baseline, may lead to overtreatment that can lead to low blood pressure, lightheadedness, confusion, and falls.

• If lower than true baseline, may lead to undertreatment and persistently increased cardiovascular risk.

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The Keys to Accurate Blood Pressure Readings:

 

Step 1. Use a validated blood pressure monitor for home use.

• You can find recommended devices at www.validatebp.org

• We sell validated monitors at our pharmacy.

 

Step 2. Select a proper cuff size.

• With manual devices, measure the circumference of your upper arm at the bicep using a tape measure. The inflatable bladder length should be 75-100% and the width of the cuff should be 37-50% of this number.

• For automated electronic devices, follow the manufacturer's instructions for the right cuff size.   We 

 

Step 3. Follow best practices for measuring blood pressure.

• Avoid caffeine for 30 minutes: Caffeine can temporarily raise your blood pressure, so try to refrain from consuming it before taking measurements.

• Empty your bladder: A full bladder can affect blood pressure readings, so it's best to empty it before measurement.

• Rest for 5 minutes before measurement: Take a moment to relax before measuring your blood pressure, as stress or physical activity can influence the results.

• Sit quietly with proper back support: Sit comfortably with your back supported and both feet flat on the floor. Avoid talking or texting during the measurement.

• Position the cuff correctly: Place the blood pressure cuff on your bare arm, following the guidelines for proper cuff size.

 

Following these guidelines is very impactful: 

• Improper cuff size: Using a cuff that is too small or too large can cause readings to vary by 5 to 20 points.

• No rest period: Skipping the 5-minute rest period before measurement can result in higher readings.

• Talking or texting during measurement: Distractions during measurement may lead to readings that are 10 to 15 points higher.

• Consuming caffeine or alcohol before measurement: Caffeine and excessive alcohol consumption can temporarily elevate blood pressure by 5 to 8 points.

• Incorrect arm positioning: Placing the cuff over clothing or not using a conic-shaped cuff on large arms can affect readings by 10 to 50 points.

• Improper calibration or lack of frequent calibration of the meter can affect readings.

 

Our Hypertension Monitoring Clinics:  

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• Measure your blood pressure

• Help you select a validated blood pressure monitor

• Equip you with the necessary tools for home monitoring

• Provide training on the proper measurement techniques

• Guide you on how to best prepare for your medical provider visits

 

Regularly tracking your blood pressure and communicating with your healthcare provider about your readings can significantly contribute to a healthier future.

 

Make an appointment with our staff and we will take care of the rest