How to Read a Blood Pressure Monitor213

Blood pressure is a measure of the force exerted by your blood against the walls of your arteries. It's an important indicator of your overall health, and it can be used to screen for and manage conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure).

Blood pressure is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). The top number, systolic pressure, is the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The bottom number, diastolic pressure, is the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.

Blood pressure readings are classified as follows:

Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
Prehypertension: 120-129/80-89 mm Hg
Hypertension stage 1: 130-139/90-99 mm Hg
Hypertension stage 2: 140/90 mm Hg or higher

Home blood pressure monitors are a convenient and affordable way to track your blood pressure. They're available at most pharmacies and online retailers. When using a home blood pressure monitor, it's important to follow the instructions carefully.

Here are the steps on how to read a blood pressure monitor:

Sit in a comfortable chair with your feet flat on the floor. Your back should be supported and your arm should be resting on a table or on the armrest of the chair.

Place the cuff of the monitor around your upper arm, about 1 inch above your elbow. The bottom edge of the cuff should be parallel to your heart.

Close the cuff snugly, but not too tightly. You should be able to fit two fingers between the cuff and your arm.

Press the start button on the monitor. The monitor will automatically inflate the cuff.

Once the cuff has inflated, the monitor will begin to take your blood pressure. You may feel a slight pulsation in your arm.

The monitor will display your blood pressure reading in mm Hg. The top number is your systolic pressure, and the bottom number is your diastolic pressure.

Record your blood pressure reading in a logbook or on the app that came with your monitor.

It's important to note that blood pressure can vary throughout the day. It's best to take your blood pressure at the same time each day, and to avoid taking it after eating, drinking caffeine, or smoking.

If you have any questions about your blood pressure readings, talk to your doctor.

2024-12-21

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