Keeping track of your blood pressure at home may help you keep it under control. Frequent readings give the truest picture of what's happening in your body and can tell your doctor if your blood pressure medicine is working.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends home monitoring, in addition to regular doctor visits and treatment, for all people with high blood pressure. Those with slightly elevated blood pressure, called prehypertension, may also find home monitoring useful.
The AHA recommends using an automatic, cuff-type upper-arm monitor. Have your doctor check the device before use and at least once a year for accuracy and proper fit. Take two readings one minute apart, morning and evening, at least four days a week. Write down the date, time and blood pressure numbers at each reading. Ask your doctor or Good Neighbor Pharmacy Pharmacist what your blood pressure should be and what to do if it's high.
Source: Good Neighbor Pharmacy Health Connection, January 2013
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