How to Monitor Blood Pressure at Home

If your doctor has asked you to check your blood pressure at home, a consistent routine gives the most useful readings. Here is how to measure accurately.

Choose a suitable monitor

• Upper-arm automatic monitors are generally preferred for home use.
• Make sure the cuff fits your arm — a cuff that is too small or too large gives inaccurate readings.
• Ask our team to show you how to use your monitor correctly.

Before you measure

• Avoid caffeine, smoking and exercise for 30 minutes beforehand.
• Empty your bladder.
• Sit quietly for five minutes with your back supported and feet flat on the floor.

Taking the reading

1. Rest your arm on a table so the cuff is at heart level.
2. Place the cuff on bare skin, about two finger-widths above the elbow.
3. Stay still and do not talk while the monitor measures.
4. Take two readings one minute apart and record both.

Keep a record

Write down the date, time and both readings, or use your monitor's memory function. Bring your record to your doctor's appointments — the pattern over time is more useful than a single reading.

This article is general information and does not replace professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, speak to a doctor or pharmacist.