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Definition
What is blood pressure (test at home)?
A blood pressure test at home makes it easy for you to maintain blood pressure in your home. Blood pressure is a measure of the strength of blood in the arteries. Most people use automatic tools to measure blood pressure in a home. This tool works by pumping the cuff around the upper arm to stop the flow of blood in the temporary arteries. As the air slowly slides from the cuff, this tool will record the pressure at which the blood begins to flow again.
Blood pressure recorded as two sizes:
- the first number is systolic pressure. Systolic pressure shows peak blood pressure that appears when the heart contracts
- the second number is diastolic pressure. Diastolic pressure shows the lowest blood pressure that appears when the heart relaxes between pulses.
These two pressures are indicated in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) because the original blood pressure gauge uses a mercury column. Blood pressure measurements are recorded as systolic / diastolic (say "systolic above diastolic). For example, if the systolic pressure is 120 mm Hg and the diastolic pressure is 80 mm Hg, the blood pressure is recorded as 120/80 (say 120 above 80).
Automatic blood pressure monitor
Automatic monitors, or electronic or digital monitors, are monitors that operate on batteries that use microphones to detect blood pulses in arteries. The cuff, which is wrapped around the upper arm, automatically expands and deflates if you press the Start button.
The type of blood pressure monitor commonly found in supermarkets, pharmacies and malls is an automated tool.
A blood pressure monitor that measures blood pressure in the finger or wrist is usually inaccurate and is not recommended.
Manual blood pressure monitor
The manual model is similar to what is usually used by doctors to measure blood pressure. Called a sphygmomanometer, this device usually includes an arm cuff, a pressure light bulb to pump cuffs, a stethoscope or microphone, and a blood pressure meter.
Blood pressure measurement is done by stopping the flow of blood in a temporary artery (usually by pumping the cuff around the upper arm) and placing the stethoscope over the skin along the artery. You listen to the sound of blood that starts flowing again through the arteries because the air is released from the cuff.
Blood pressure is shown on a circular device with a needle. As pressure increases in the cuff, the needle moves clockwise on the tool. If the pressure in the cuff decreases, the needle moves counterclockwise and the number read in the device when the first blood flow is heard is systolic pressure. The number that is read when the blood flow can no longer be heard is diastolic pressure.
An ambulatory blood pressure monitor
An ambulatory blood pressure monitor is a small device that is worn throughout the day, usually for 24 or 48 hours. This tool takes blood pressure automatically. Your doctor may recommend this monitor if you think you have "white-coat" blood pressure or other methods don't produce consistent results.
When do I have to undergo blood pressure (test at home)?
Your doctor may recommend that you monitor blood pressure at home if you:
- diagnosed with pre-hypertension (systolic-up-numbers between 120 and 139 mm Hg or diastolic-lower-numbers between 80 and 89 mm Hg)
- diagnosed with hypertension (systolic 140 mm Hg or more or diastolic 90 mm Hg or more)
- have risk factors for high blood pressure
Prevention & warning
What should I know before undergoing blood pressure (test at home)?
Do not adjust blood pressure medications based on blood pressure readings at home if the doctor does not tell you. Blood pressure usually rises and falls from day to day and even from moment to moment. Blood pressure tends to be higher in the morning and lower at night. Stress, smoking, eating, exercise, cold, pain, noise, medication, and even speaking can affect. A single high result does not mean you have high blood pressure. The average measurement repeated several times throughout the day is more accurate than a single reading.
Blood pressure may only be high when you see a doctor. This is called "white-coat" hypertension and may be caused by stress from visiting a doctor. If you check blood pressure regularly at home, you may find that blood pressure is lower when you are not in a doctor's office or hospital.
Process
What should I do before undergoing blood pressure (test at home)?
Before checking blood pressure, you must:
- find a quiet place to check blood pressure. You will need to listen to your heartbeat
- make sure you feel comfortable and relaxed, and the bladder that has been emptied (full bladder may affect reading)
- rest in the chair next to the table for 5-10 minutes. The arm must rest comfortably parallel to the heart. Sitting straight leaning back, legs not crossed. Rest your upper arm on the table with your palm facing up.
What is the process of blood pressure (test at home)?
Blood pressure on the right arm may be higher or lower than blood pressure on the left arm. Therefore, try using the same arm on each test. At the beginning, it's a good idea to take blood pressure 3 times in a row, every 5-10 minutes. If you are more comfortable when taking blood pressure, you will only need to measure it once or twice every time.
Instructions for using a blood pressure monitor vary depending on the type of blood pressure monitor you choose. Below is a general guide:
- take blood pressure when you feel comfortable and relaxed. Sit quietly for at least 5 minutes with both feet on the floor. Try not to move or talk while measuring blood pressure
- sit with your arms slightly folded and rest comfortably on the table so that your upper arms are at the same level as the heart
- Place the blood pressure cuff over the skin of the upper arm. You may have to roll up your sleeves, open your sleeves, or undress
- tightly wrap the blood pressure cuff around the upper arm so that the lower end of the cuff is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the elbow fold.
What should I do after undergoing blood pressure (test at home)?
Record the blood pressure number with the date and time. You may use a computer book or spreadsheet. The monitor may have a feature that will record numbers for you. Some monitors can transfer this information to a computer. Also, record your daily activities, such as when you take medication or if you feel angry or stressed. Your notes may help explain changes in blood pressure reading and help doctors adjust the medication.
Explanation of Test Results
What do the test results mean?
Blood pressure for adults aged 18 years and above (mm Hg)
Ideal: systolic (119 or below), diastolic (79 or below)
Prehypertension: systolic (120-139), diastolic (80-89)
Hypertension: systolic (140 or above), diastolic (90 or above)
Generally, the lower the blood pressure, the better. For example, the results of blood pressure less than 90/60 are healthy as long as you feel fine. However, if you experience low blood pressure and feel dizzy, want to faint, or vomit, talk to your doctor.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
