Are you concerned about your blood pressure but unsure where to start? As we age, maintaining healthy blood pressure becomes increasingly important, but many people may not realize they have elevated or high blood pressure. At-home monitoring is a simple and effective way to take control of your health and catch potential issues early. Don't worry, we're here to guide you every step of the way!

Why At-Home Monitoring Matters

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, often goes unnoticed and can lead to serious health problems like heart disease and stroke, if left untreated. But the good news is, you can manage blood pressure and prevent these issues by taking charge of your health!

Regular at-home monitoring allows you to:

• Track your blood pressure over time and spot any trends of elevation
• Partner with your healthcare provider to manage your health and find the best solutions for you
• Work with your healthcare provider to evaluate the effectiveness of your current treatment plan
• Identify potential issues like "white coat" hypertension (when your blood pressure is higher in a medical setting) or "masked" hypertension (when it's higher outside of a medical setting)

Choosing the Right Monitor

When selecting a home blood pressure monitor, look for one that:

• Is validated for clinical accuracy by organizations like US Blood Pressure Validated Device Listing (ValidateBP.org)
• Has a large, easy-to-read display
• Fits your arm size comfortably and correctly
• Stores multiple readings for tracking

Alertive Healthcare Medical Group is giving away THREE A&D Medical Deluxe Arm Blood Pressure Monitors with Bluetooth, which meets these criteria and makes it easy to share your readings with your provider. You can enter the giveaway* by following the rules on our Instagram post, giveaway closes May 11th, 2024 at 11:59 pm. Good luck!

How to Take Accurate Blood Pressure Readings

To ensure your at-home blood pressure readings are reliable:

1. Sit down and relax for 5 minutes before taking a reading. Avoid caffeine, smoking, and exercise for 30 minutes prior. This helps your body settle into a calm state for an accurate reading.
2. Sit with your back supported and feet flat on the floor. Your arm should be resting on a table with the elbow at heart level. This position allows your arm muscles to relax and ensures the cuff is at the same level as your heart.
3. Turn on your blood pressure monitor and make sure the cuff is wrapped snugly around your bare upper arm. The artery marker on the cuff should be aligned with your brachial artery, which is the main artery in your upper arm.
4. Press the start button to begin the reading. The cuff will automatically inflate and then slowly release air. This process allows the monitor to detect your blood pressure.
5. As the cuff deflates, the monitor will detect your systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure readings. It will also detect your heart rate. These numbers provide a snapshot of your cardiovascular health.
6. The monitor will display your blood pressure numbers and pulse. Write these down in your log, noting the date and time. Keeping track of your readings is crucial for spotting patterns and trends.
7. Take a second reading 1 minute later. If the readings are very different, take a third reading 1 minute after that. This helps ensure accuracy and consistency.
8. Keep a log of your readings, including the date, time, and any notes about your activity or mood. Download our free blood pressure log and bring it to your next appointment to discuss with your healthcare provider. They can use this information to better understand your health and make informed decisions about your care.
9. If you get an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) message, take the reading again. If it persists, contact your healthcare provider. An irregular heartbeat can be a sign of an underlying condition that requires medical attention.

Aim to take your blood pressure readings around the same times each day, such as morning and evening. Remember, home blood pressure monitoring is a powerful tool, but it doesn't replace regular visits with your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns about your readings, be sure to reach out to your doctor or nurse practitioner. They're there to support you and help you achieve your best health.

Understanding Your Numbers

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and has two numbers:

• Systolic (top number): measures pressure in your arteries when your heart beats
• Diastolic (bottom number): measures pressure in your arteries between beats

A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mmHg. Anything higher may be considered elevated or high blood pressure, depending on the numbers. 

What to Do with Your Readings

Keep a log (check out this free downloadable log) of your at-home blood pressure readings and share it with your healthcare provider. If you notice consistently high readings, contact your provider right away. They may adjust your treatment plan or recommend additional testing. Regular at-home monitoring is a powerful tool for maintaining your health as you age. By taking control of your blood pressure, you can reduce your risk of serious health problems and enjoy a better quality of life. Start today by investing in a reliable home monitor or entering our giveaway for a free one and making it a habit to check your numbers regularly. Your health is worth it!

*terms & conditions apply to the blood pressure monitor giveaway, read them here