Around 45% of U.S. adults should be monitoring their blood pressure at home -- it's important, according to a study in Hypertension, because nearly 93% of folks who register one high blood pressure in their doctor's office turn out to have a healthy blood pressure when they measure it over time at home. And on the other hand, quite a few have blood pressure that is lower at the doc's office than when measured at home.
But how do you get an accurate reading at home?
- Buy a validated blood pressure machine -- check that out at validatedbp.org. You do not need to pay a lot; the fancy bells and whistles are purely extra.
- Before you start, empty your bladder. And wait at least 30 minutes after smoking, consuming caffeine or alcohol, or exercising. Better yet, do it first thing in the morning and then avoid caffeine and alcohol for an accurate late-day reading.
- Take your blood pressure on a bare arm. Sit comfortably with your arm supported so it's near the height of your heart.
- Wrap the cuff so it is secure but not overly tight.
- Then sit quietly, both feet flat on the floor, no TV, music, reading, or phone.
Now you are ready to hit the start button. Keep a log of morning and night readings for at least a week. For more tips, check out the American Heart Association's video at targetbp.org. Search for "SMBP Training Video."
Better yet, to avoid developing high blood pressure, dive into the healthy lifestyle information available at LongevityPlaybook.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2023 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
