- [Voiceover] Taking your blood pressure at home
can help you control your levels,
and is simple to do.
You should take readings at the same time each day,
such as, before you take your medications in the morning,
and before bedtime at night.
Don't smoke, drink coffee, or exercise
for at least 30 minutes before measuring.
Sit comfortably in a chair with you back supported.
And rest quietly for five minutes.
Keep you feet flat on the floor.
Don't cross your legs.
Using a table or desk, support your arm in front of you
at about the level of your heart.
Wrap the cuff snugly around your upper arm,
just above the crease in your elbow and inflate the cuff.
Take two or three readings
about a minute apart at each session.
Record all your readings along
with the date and time of day.
And bring this log with you
to your next health care appointment.
- I can see you were quite high when we first started here,
about 150 and then--
- [Voiceover] Measuring your blood pressure each day
will give your healthcare provider a clear picture
of your blood pressure in your everyday life.
- [Doctor] I can see that you're very well controlled.
- [Voiceover] Your medications may need to be adjusted
to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The American Heart Association
does not recommend any particular brand
of blood pressure monitor, but there are some things
to look for when you shop for a unit.
Consider only those with an inflatable cuff
that wraps around your upper arm.
If your upper arm is larger than average,
you may need a bigger cuff.
Wrist monitors are not as accurate as cuff monitors.
Look on the label to see that the monitor
has been validated for accuracy and reliability.
When you go for your next check up,
take your blood pressure monitor with you.
Ask your health care provider to make sure
you're using it correctly.
And test it for accuracy.
- Okay, let's check your monitor now
and see if you get the same readings as I got
with my carry device. - [Woman] Okay.
- [Voiceover] It's a good idea to have
your monitor tested each year.