May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month which is a time to raise awareness, promote prevention, and encourage action around one of the most common yet silent health threats: high blood pressure.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly half of adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure, and many others may be unaware they even have it. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, remains a major contributor to heart disease and stroke; two of the leading causes of death nationwide.
Why You Need To Measure Your Blood Pressure
Checking your blood pressure isn’t just something to do when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s an essential part of maintaining your overall health. High blood pressure often develops with no noticeable symptoms, which means many people don’t realize they have it until it causes more serious health issues.
Regularly checking your blood pressure may help you:
- Detect issues early and take steps before serious problems develop.
- Understand your baseline which makes it easier to spot changes.
- Monitor your progress if you’ve made lifestyle changes or started medication.
- Prevent complications as uncontrolled high blood pressure could lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney damage, and other life-threatening conditions.
How To Measure Your Blood Pressure at Home
Thanks to affordable home blood pressure monitors, checking your blood pressure has never been easier. Choose an automatic, cuff-style monitor that fits your upper arm for best results. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and record your readings over time to track any changes.
The Correct Way To Measure Your Blood Pressure
To get an accurate reading, follow these helpful tips:
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco for at least 30 minutes before testing.
- Sit comfortably with your back supported and feet flat on the floor.
- Keep your arm at heart level, resting it on a table or armrest.
- Stay still and silent during the reading.
- Make sure your cuff fits properly. A too-small or too-large cuff may give you a false reading.
- Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals, as poor nutrition and dehydration can influence blood pressure levels.
How Health Care Professionals Measure Your Blood Pressure
In clinical settings, health care providers typically use a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope or a digital monitor. Measurements are taken after you’ve been seated and relaxed for a few minutes. Health care professionals are trained to detect abnormal patterns and may take multiple readings to ensure accuracy.
Blood Pressure Ranges: What Your Numbers Mean
Blood pressure is measured with two numbers: systolic (top) and diastolic (bottom).
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120–129 / less than 80
It’s important to review your blood pressure readings with a health care professional before drawing conclusions or diagnosing yourself. They can help interpret your numbers in the context of your overall health.
Where You Can Get Your Blood Pressure Checked
Don’t have a home monitor? No worries, there are many places where you can get your blood pressure checked:
- Your doctor’s office or clinic
- Pharmacies with health stations
- Community health fairs
- Local health departments
- Some workplaces or gyms also offer screenings
Think of blood pressure monitoring as a simple but powerful way to take charge of your health. Whether you’re at home, at a pharmacy, or in a doctor’s office, just a few minutes can give you valuable insight into your well-being.
