High Blood Pressure is a common health issue especially as people progress in age. This makes it very important to regularly monitor your blood pressure especially if the doctor recommends it. Making daily trips to the doctor or clinic to have your blood pressure checked and monitored can be tiring and time-consuming. This is a journey that one doesn’t have to take instead one can easily and conveniently track blood pressure at home. Here are some key steps to follow to help you keep good track of blood pressure at home.
Prepare Before Taking The Readings
The first step to accurately tracking blood pressure at home is having adequate beforehand preparation. One of the major things to consider is avoiding all factors that cause a rise in blood pressure. It’s advisable to avoid smoking, exercising. Also, avoid consuming caffeine drinks before taking a reading. This is because they may cause a sharp rise in blood pressure levels. Read more on the effects of caffeine on blood pressure . If one must, have them at least 30 minutes before taking a blood pressure reading. It’s also advisable to take a pee before taking a reading. A full bladder is also attributed to a slight increase in blood pressure levels.
When taking the reading, ensure you’re comfortably seated – a chair with a backrest, uncrossed legs and flat feet. Also, ensure that the arm is well-rested on a flat surface e.g. a table. Remain still all through the reading process. These simple steps will produce accurate results.
Track blood pressure at home by getting a good blood pressure machine
The decision to track blood pressure at home means that you’ll need a good blood pressure machine. There’re two common types of blood pressure machines; Digital and Manual Blood Pressure Monitors. Within them, there’re quite a several brands and types. One of the major features to consider is accuracy. It’s hard to determine accuracy by just looking at a machine brand, hence it’s best to consider recommendations from your doctor. Also, give keen consideration to the size of the inflatable cuff – it’s wrapped around the arm, for accurate readings.
When tracking your blood pressure at home: Understand The Readings
Blood pressure is measured using two significant numbers;
Systolic blood pressure measures the amount of pressure exerted on the walls of arteries with every heartbeat. It’s always the first number
Diastolic blood pressure indicates the amount of pressure exerted on the walls of the artery between heartbeats. It’s always the second number
The accuracy of the systolic and diastolic blood pressure can be a determiner of one needs to take preventive measures to keep blood pressure at bay or reconstruction steps to control blood pressure. It’s important to understand the different readings. You can interpret the readings as follows;
Normal Blood Pressure is indicated by a reading equal to or less than 120/80mm Hg
Elevated Blood Pressure is indicated by a consistent reading of 120-129/80mm Hg
Hypertension Stage 1 Blood Pressure is indicated by consistent readings ranging between 130-139/80-89mm Hg.
Hypertension Stage 2 Blood Pressure is indicated by consistent readings that are equal to or higher than 140/90mm Hg
A hypertension Crisis is a dreadful point for any patient. The readings are usually above 180/120mm Hg. In severe happenings, one can have shortness of breath, chest pains, back pains, weakness and changes in speech and vision. At this point, it is advisable to seek medical attention urgently.
Be Consistent In Taking The Readings
One of the major benefits of tracking blood pressure a home is the convenience of taking the readings at home comfort. This means that you have access to the machine at any time. Doctor’s advice for you to take the readings multiple times and at the same time preferably three times a day all at similar times. For instance, take the measurements in groups of three in the morning, three in the afternoon and three before bedtime. The three times need to be at least one minute apart. Also, digitally or manually record the readings well. This helps keep a clear and good record of the previous readings which helps the doctor in deciding the best action plan.
In Summary
Uncontrolled high blood pressure has dire impacts on the body in general. It affects major organs such as damaging the arteries and causing damage to the inner wall of the arteries lining. This can lead to Aneurysm – a weakened artery wall bulges out and can easily rupture. It may also result in a damaged heart leading to cardiovascular conditions and severe conditions a heart attack. Other possible results include stroke, dementia, kidney failure, blindness, and sexual dysfunction. Keeping track of blood pressure can help avoid them. Further, discover the best ways to lower your blood pressure from our nutritionist experts.
