Steps
Use the Right Machine
Blood pressure machines that use arm cuffs are more accurate than those that use wrist cuffs, so try to buy one that measures around your upper arm.
When you first buy your cuff, please make sure it is accurate by bringing it to the pharmacy, fire department, or doctor's office. To make sure the readings are about the same, check your blood pressure (BP) with both your cuff and the cuff in the office/pharmacy.
When you first buy your cuff, please make sure it is accurate by bringing it to the pharmacy, fire department, or doctor's office. To make sure the readings are about the same, check your blood pressure (BP) with both your cuff and the cuff in the office/pharmacy.
Use the Right Cuff Size
If your cuff is too small or too large, your home readings will be wrong!
Each cuff will show a range where the fit is correct. This is usually indicated by a white line on the cuff.
If you're unsure, you can measure around your arm to check which cuff size is right for you.
Read more about picking the right cuff size from the American Medical Association (AMA).
Each cuff will show a range where the fit is correct. This is usually indicated by a white line on the cuff.
If you're unsure, you can measure around your arm to check which cuff size is right for you.
Read more about picking the right cuff size from the American Medical Association (AMA).
Follow These Steps Every Time
To check your blood pressure (BP):
- Sit still and relaxed for at least 5 minutes.
- Place the cuff on bare skin, not over clothing.
- Place the cuff just above the bend in your elbow.
- Keep both feet flat on the floor, not crossed.
- Sit up straight with your back supported.
- Prop your arm on a table so it's relaxed and at the same height as your heart.
- Do not talk while the machine is checking your BP.
You can also read this poster about checking your BP.
Avoid the following for 30 to 60 minutes before you check your BP:
Avoid the following for 30 to 60 minutes before you check your BP:
- Smoking/vaping
- Caffeine
- Exercising
Be aware that stress, a full bladder, a full stomach, taking certain medications (such as some cold medicines), or using drugs may also make your BP go up, so you should avoid checking during these times.
Track Your Readings
Each time you check your blood pressure (BP), write down the date, your blood pressure (written as a top number/bottom number), and your heart rate. This is the information that we and other medical providers will ask to see when evaluating your blood pressure.
For many people, their goal BP is about 120/80, but the goal may be different for some people.
When to take action:
For many people, their goal BP is about 120/80, but the goal may be different for some people.
When to take action:
- If your BP is above 180 (top number) or above 110 (bottom number), reach out to us right away.
- If your BP is above 180 (top number) or above 110 (bottom number) and you're having new symptoms, go directly to your local emergency room (ER).
- If your blood pressure is lower than 100/60, please let us know.
A "normal" heart rate is in the 80s for most people, but it may be higher or lower depending on your level of physical fitness and other medical conditions.
If Your Readings Seem Wrong
If you feel your readings are too high or too low, wait a few minutes then repeat the reading.
If the second reading is similar, check that the battery is new and then go to your local pharmacy or fire department to check again.
If the second reading is much different, wait a few minutes, then check a third time. The two that are the closest to each other are most likely accurate.
If the second reading is similar, check that the battery is new and then go to your local pharmacy or fire department to check again.
If the second reading is much different, wait a few minutes, then check a third time. The two that are the closest to each other are most likely accurate.
To be sure you get an accurate reading, it's important to follow ALL of the steps to check your blood pressure (BP).