If you have been told to monitor your blood pressure at home, the first question is usually which machine to buy. There are dozens on the market and the prices range from about £15 to over £100. The good news is that most of the affordable ones work perfectly well.
Which Type to Buy
Get an upper arm monitor, not a wrist one. Upper arm monitors are more accurate and they are what the NHS recommends. Wrist monitors are convenient but they are sensitive to positioning and tend to give less reliable readings.
Look for a monitor that has been clinically validated. The British and Irish Hypertension Society maintains a list of validated monitors on their website. Omron and Kinetik are two brands that appear frequently. You do not need Bluetooth, apps, or fancy features. A simple validated monitor with a standard arm cuff is all you need.
Understand your blood pressure reading and what it means for your health.
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This is where most people go wrong. Sit down for at least five minutes before taking a reading. Sit with your back supported and your feet flat on the floor. Put the cuff on your bare upper arm, roughly at heart level. Do not talk while the reading is being taken.
Take two readings, one minute apart, and record the second one. Your blood pressure varies throughout the day, so try to measure it at roughly the same time each day. Morning and evening readings are typical. Avoid taking it straight after exercise, caffeine, or a cigarette.
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What the Numbers Mean
Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers. The top number (systolic) measures the pressure when your heart beats. The bottom number (diastolic) measures the pressure between beats.
Normal blood pressure is generally considered to be between 90/60 and 120/80. Anything consistently above 140/90 is considered high and your GP will want to discuss treatment. Between 120/80 and 140/90 is elevated and worth keeping an eye on with lifestyle changes. Below 90/60 is low, which is usually fine unless you are experiencing symptoms like dizziness.
When to Contact Your GP
If your home readings are consistently above 135/85, tell your GP. If you get a reading above 180/120, rest for five minutes and take it again. If it is still that high, contact your GP the same day or call 111.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, speak to your GP or a qualified healthcare professional. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 999 immediately.
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