If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure, chances are your doctor will recommend purchasing a blood pressure monitor so that you can take measurements of your blood pressure levels several times throughout the day. There are several reasons as to why you might want to periodically check your blood pressure; if you are starting a new blood pressure medication, for instance, your doctor might want you to periodically monitor and log your blood pressure to see if the medicine is effective. Or if you are starting a new diet or exercise routine, you might record your blood pressure levels to see if that is effective as well. Regardless of what you choose to do with your blood pressure monitor, you should be sure to choose the proper blood pressure monitor for yourself.

How To Choose A Blood Pressure Monitor

Choosing the right blood pressure monitor is crucial for your health. The American Heart Association (AHA), suggests using automatic, cuff-style monitors that use your bicep or upper-arm. There are other kinds of blood pressure models that use your wrist or finger to monitor your blood pressure levels, however they are not recommended due to the less reliable readings. Other points to look into when choosing a blood pressure monitor:

Choose A Validated Blood Pressure Monitor

The AHA suggests picking a monitor that is tested and approved by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, the British Hypertension Society, and the International Protocol for the Validation of Automated BP Measure Devices. A list of validated monitors is available.

Proper Cuff Fitting

Every person’s body is built differently. A child who suffers from hypertension is going to need a different monitor than someone who is 50 years old who weights 200+ pounds. There are specially sized cuffs for extra small cuffs or even extra large cuffs depending on the size of your upper arm, so make sure the monitor you get fits your upper arm.

Special Needs Monitors

Certain models of blood pressure monitors have specific features for different conditions, including pregnancy, senior citizens, and children. Be sure the blood pressure monitor you choose caters to any special needs you may have.

How To Properly Use A Blood Pressure Monitor

The following video is provided by the American Heart Association and helps visualize how to properly take your blood pressure readings.

1. Properly Fit the Cuff- make sure the cuff properly fits your upper arm and that the blood pressure monitor fits snuggly.
2. Sit Still- if you are moving around your blood pressure levels can become momentarily elevated, so make sure you are not moving around when taking your pressure levels. Make sure not to exercise, consume any caffeinated drinks, or smoke at least 30 minutes before taking your blood pressure as well to make sure you are getting a reliable reading.
3. Check Your Posture- sitting properly makes a big difference when taking your blood pressure. Be sure to sit, back straight, with your feet resting flat on the ground. Place your arms down on a flat surface so that they are rested comfortably and so that your upper arm is level with your heart.
4. Consistent Readings- it is wise to take your blood pressure around the same time daily, such as in the mornings, so that you get consistent readings over time.
5. Records Results- it is highly recommended to record your readings with blood pressure level, the data, and the time you took the reading. Many doctors will request for you to do this to monitor whether or not whatever you are doing to lower your blood pressure is working effectively.