Learn More About Monitoring Your Blood Pressure Levels

Hypertension or high blood pressure is common these days. Stress and poor lifestyle practices are known to be the common causes behind it. It is also called as a silent killer and a major risk factor associated with cardiac problems. The symptoms of hypertension aren’t very clear. So, regularly monitoring your blood pressure level is very important to prevent any complications.

How to monitor BP?

In case, your blood pressure (BP) reading is often above 130/80 mm Hg, your doctor will advise you to go for regular blood pressure monitoring. You can choose from any of the following methods:

1. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM): In this method, a monitor is attached to your belt and a cuff is wrapped around your arm, the machine automatically monitors the blood pressure in every two hours. The values may vary depending upon the activity you are performing. There might be a difference in morning and evening time. If you are following the ABPM method, an average of 14 readings is considered.

2. Home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM): Home monitoring is easier as compared to ABPM. The device used is similar to the device used at hospitals or your doctor’s clinic. The general recommendation, in this case, is monitoring your BP twice a day, once in morning and once in evening.

How to take correct blood pressure reading?

• Sit comfortably, with back straight. Avoid moving or talking

• If possible take a reading from the left arm, while resting it at a flat surface

• It is best to take the readings at the same time daily in morning and evening

• Avoid any kind of intake of caffeine or exercise or smoking for at least 30 minutes before measuring your blood pressure

• Maintain a log to keep the record of your readings for minimum 1 week

If you are suffering from hypertension, the goal is to maintain a reading as close as possible to 130/80. Also, if you have any other disease related to kidneys, heart etc. management of hypertension becomes even more important.