When should you check blood pressure

Download a PDF sheet that shows you how to measure your blood pressure properly. Learn what the numbers in your blood pressure reading mean. Note: A diagnosis of high blood pressure must be confirmed with a medical professional. A doctor should also evaluate any unusually low blood pressure readings. The American Heart Association recommends home monitoring for all people with high blood pressure to help the healthcare provider determine whether treatments are working. Home monitoring self-measured blood pressure is not a substitute for regular visits to your physician. Have your doctor check to see that you are using it correctly and getting the same results as the equipment in the office. Plan to bring your monitor in once a year to make sure the readings are accurate.

If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. Blood pressure is one of the four major vital signs, the others being heart rate, breathing rate, and body temperature. These vital signs can help give a general idea of how well the body and its organs are performing. Blood pressure is typically measured using a blood pressure cuff.

Choosing a home blood pressure monitor The American Heart Association recommends an automatic, cuff-style, bicep upper-arm monitor. Blood pressure test Blood pressure tip: Get more potassium Blood pressure tip: Get off the couch Blood pressure tip: Know alcohol limits Blood pressure tip: Stress out no more Blood pressure tip: Watch the caffeine Blood pressure tip: Watch your weight Blood sugar levels can fluctuate for many reasons Blood sugar testing: Why, when and how Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes How kidneys work Build resilience to better handle diabetes Bump on the head: When is it a serious head injury? Thomas G, et al. Medications may also be recommended in some cases. Be still. Not everyone can track blood pressure at home. The best time to check it is before you take your medication. At Home.