Home Blood Pressure Monitoring

Monitoring your blood pressure at home helps your doctor see the full picture of your health.

⚠️ Important: Home monitoring does not replace regular doctor visits. Never stop taking your medication without checking with your doctor, regardless of your home readings.

Who should monitor at home?

The American Heart Association recommends home monitoring for:

  • Anyone diagnosed with high blood pressure.
  • People starting or changing treatment to see if it is working.
  • People with risk factors or conditions related to heart health.

1. Choosing the Right Monitor

Not all monitors are created equal. Follow these rules to get accurate results:

  • ✅ DO: Choose an automatic, cuff-style, upper arm (bicep) monitor.
  • ? DON'T: Use wrist or finger monitors (they are less reliable).
  • ? FIT MATTERS: Measure around your upper arm before buying. Ensure the monitor comes with the correct cuff size for your arm.

Tip: Bring your monitor to your next doctor's appointment so they can check that you are using it correctly.

2. How to Measure Correctly

Small mistakes can lead to big errors in your numbers. Follow this checklist:

The 30-Minute Rule

For 30 minutes before the test, do not:

  • Smoke
  • Drink caffeine
  • Exercise

Getting Ready

  • Empty your bladder: A full bladder can affect readings.
  • Bare skin: Place the cuff directly on your skin, not over clothes.
  • Sit correctly: Feet flat on the floor, back supported.
  • Arm position: Rest your arm on a flat surface (like a table) at heart level.
  • Be still: Rest for 5 minutes before starting. Do not talk or look at your phone.

Recording

Take two readings, one minute apart. Do this at the same time every day.

3. Know Your Numbers

Find where your numbers fall in this chart.

CategorySystolic (Top)Diastolic (Bottom)
NORMALLess than 120Less than 80
ELEVATED120 – 129Less than 80
STAGE 1
(High Blood Pressure)		130 – 13980 – 89
STAGE 2
(High Blood Pressure)		140 or higher90 or higher
CRISIS
(Consult Doctor)		Higher than 180Higher than 120

4. What if my reading is high?

Scenario A: A Single High Reading
Don't panic. Wait a minute and test again. If it is still high, check with your doctor to see if there is a problem with your monitor or your medication.

Scenario B: Hypertensive Emergency

If your pressure is higher than 180/120 AND you have any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately.

  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Back pain
  • Numbness / Weakness
  • Change in vision / Difficulty speaking