Previously people needed to have an ECG in hospital that was interpreted by a highly-trained expert. How can taking your blood pressure at home be helpful?īecause blood pressure can constantly change throughout the day, depending on anything from your activities or the body’s position to emotions and time of day, at-home monitoring can help you determine how your lifestyle changes are affecting your blood pressure – recording these changes if required.University of Manchester researchers have developed a simple technique that allows people to monitor their own electrocardiogram (ECG) for a potentially life-threatening condition. The World Health Organization defines high blood pressure as a blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or more. Diastolic pressure (the bottom number in the reading) will be measured once the blood flow is continuous and we are measuring the blood pressure when the heart muscle is between beats. This is what we call systolic pressure (the top number in the reading), which shows the amount of pressure in our arteries when the heart muscle contracts. Read: Five ways to lower your blood pressureĪs the cuff deflates, blood begins to flow again, and the machine measures the vibration in the arterial wall. The cuff will inflate and stop the blood flow through the artery. To use a blood pressure monitor, you will fit an adjustable cuff around your upper arm (roughly at heart level).
Most blood pressure monitors will give a reading of both systolic and diastolic pressure. Don’t be tempted to round your readings up or down, as it could affect the treatment you’re prescribed. Keep a record of each measure so you can share it with your doctor. Take your readings under the same conditions and at the same time each day where possible. Read: Keeping your blood pressure in this range can slow brain ageing If you’ve been advised to take standing blood pressure readings, you should wait at least two minutes between readings. Once you’re ready, follow the instructions that come with your chosen monitor and record your blood pressure at least twice each time, one minute apart. Loose fitting clothes will also help you fit the cuff around your arm easily.
#At home heart monitor free#
It’s best to find a comfortable spot that is free from any distractions, where you can sit and relax for five minutes before taking a reading.ĭo not measure your blood pressure within 30 minutes of eating, drinking caffeinated drinks, taking medication, exercising or smoking as these can all raise your blood pressure temporarily. Don’t measure your blood pressure if you are feeling uncomfortable, stressed or in pain. Read: Why your blood pressure changes with ageīlood pressure should be taken when you are at rest. Visit your local pharmacy to look at the range available and find a product that best suits you. However, if you need to take your blood pressure often and are unable to get it checked regularly by a health provider, you may wish to buy an at-home blood pressure monitor and do it yourself. You can have your blood pressure measured by a doctor, nurse or pharmacist. Here’s how you can keep a check on your blood pressure at home.Ĭhecking your blood pressure regularly ensures you can monitor changes and take action as early as possible. So what’s the best way to prevent this diagnosis? High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can often have no symptoms or clear markers. Blood pressure tends to rise as we age as arteries get stiffer and more rigid, causing our heart to pump harder and, therefore, increasing blood pressure. Almost five million Australians live with high blood pressure, many unknowingly, with older Aussies more susceptible to developing the condition.
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