Checking blood pressure at home the right way

Home blood pressure readings help the doctor see what’s really happening between visits, but only if they’re taken the same careful way each time. This note covers the setup that gives a reading you can trust.

Before you measure

Rest for at least 5 minutes first.¹ Avoid caffeine and tobacco for 30 minutes beforehand, and don’t measure right after exercise or while upset.¹

How to sit

Sit with your back supported, feet flat on the floor and legs uncrossed.¹ Rest the arm on a table so the upper arm is at heart level.¹ Make sure the cuff fits well.¹

Take two readings

Take at least 2 readings one minute apart.¹ On many digital monitors, wait 15 to 30 seconds before using the cuff again.¹

When, and for how long

Measure in the morning before taking medicines and in the evening before supper.¹ Write down each reading every day for 5 days, then share the results with your provider.¹

What to do with the numbers

Ask your provider what range they want you in and which numbers mean you should call. If a reading is very high and you have chest pain, trouble breathing, a severe headache, weakness on one side or trouble speaking, call 911. A home health nurse can check the monitor against theirs and show you the setup.