May is High Blood Pressure Education Month, a great time to learn more about high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, which makes it very dangerous to your health.

Many people have high blood pressure and are not aware of it according to the American Heart Association. This is because there are often no signs or symptoms. This is why having an accurate measure of your blood pressure is so important. If your blood pressure is a concern or your numbers vary, measuring your blood pressure at home could make sense for you.

Home blood pressure monitors are relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and widely available. You can find a blood pressure monitor at online stores or a local pharmacy. Done correctly, self-measured blood pressure readings can be very accurate. In addition, if you have “white coat hypertension,” a condition where having your blood pressure checked makes you nervous and causes your blood pressure to rise, checking it at home will give a more accurate measurement.

If your healthcare team is concerned about your blood pressure, ask them if checking it at home makes sense for you.

Some tips on measuring your blood pressure at home

When measuring your blood pressure at home, it’s a good idea to take the readings at the same time each day. You should take at least two readings, about one or two minutes apart. Using a blood pressure log to write down your measurements will make tracking them easier. Be sure to bring your blood pressure log when visiting your doctor’s office. You should also bring your home blood pressure monitor so it can be checked for accuracy.

When checking your blood pressure at home, here’s a helpful guide to follow:

• The blood pressure cuff should fit snug, but not too tightly.
• The cuff should be against your bare skin, not over clothing.
• Avoid eating or drinking at least 30 minutes before taking your blood pressure.
• Empty your bladder before your blood pressure reading.
• Avoid any exercise at least 30 minutes before your blood pressure reading
• Before your reading, sit quietly in a comfortable chair with your back supported for at least 5 minutes.
• Rest your arm with the blood pressure cuff on a table at chest height.
• During the reading, keep both feet flat on the ground and your legs uncrossed.

The CDC has stated that nearly half of adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure. This is defined as a systolic blood pressure greater than 130mm or a diastolic blood pressure greater than 80mm. If you see consistent readings of 130/80 or greater on your home blood pressure monitor, be sure to let your healthcare provider know.

Since high blood pressure puts you at an increased risk of serious health problems, it’s very important to get it under control. If you have high blood pressure, your healthcare provider can talk to you about ways to get it down to a healthier level. Never ignore high blood pressure!

Reliant Medical Group is offering a free blood pressure check for adults age 18+!

This is an opportunity for you to have your blood pressure checked and also receive tools and information you can take home to support you in improving your heart and overall health. Also, if you have your own blood pressure cuff, feel free to bring it to have it checked for accuracy. LEARN MORE

Upcoming Event:

Friday, June 27 – 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Covenant United Methodist Church
24 Hamilton Street, Worcester MA 01604