For people at risk of high blood pressure, regular visits to the doctor may not be sufficient to monitor and manage high blood pressure. Therefore, it is always recommended for such people to monitor their blood pressure reading at a remote location, preferably in the comfort of their homes.
As such, they can track their high blood pressure readings and consequently track the treatment. Below are the steps to take when monitoring people at risk of high blood pressure.
1. Purchase A Blood Pressure Monitor
The first step towards monitoring a loved one’s blood pressure is having a blood pressure monitor on hand. If you do not have one, you should consider purchasing one. Most health providers may recommend that you go for digital monitors that are placed on the upper arm since they have proven to be more accurate. Among the factors you may consider when purchasing a blood pressure monitor include the following:
- The size of the cuff: Ensure you purchase a cuff that fits properly for more accurate readings.
- Display of the monitor: Ensure you select a monitor with a display that is clear and consequently easy to read.
- Cost of the monitor: since the prices of the monitors vary, you may consider the prices before purchasing one.
2. Consult Your Doctor
Once you purchase the home blood pressure monitor, it is important to see your doctor with the monitor you have for elaborate directions for use. The doctor or nurse will ensure that the monitor is well-calibrated and will give you accurate directions on how to monitor blood pressure.
It is also essential to take the monitor to your health provider’s office at least once a year to check the accuracy of the home blood pressure monitor. If it is impossible to make it a doctor’s visit when you’re in need of help, you can look into remote patient monitoring services to help you keep track of your blood pressure from home.
When consulting the doctor, ensure that you discuss the readings to align them with treatment. The doctor may also recommend medications depending on the patient’s general health as well as the levels of their blood pressure.
3. Choose When To Take The Blood Pressure Readings
When monitoring people at risk of high blood pressure, you have to select the most appropriate times to take blood pressure readings. Most physicians recommend that you take 2-3 readings in the morning and 2-3 readings at night, a few times a week. Ensure that you are consistent with the reading for more accurate monitoring. It is also important that you do not go overboard by taking the readings too many times.
4. Monitor The Pressure By Taking Records Of The Readings
Measuring and taking records of blood pressure is a critical part of home monitoring. Ensure you take records of the measurements by checking the top and bottom readings on the display. The systolic pressure is usually the top number while the diastolic pressure is the number at the bottom.
Below are additional tips for measuring blood pressure at home:
- Ensure the patient wears loose-fitting clothes before measuring the blood pressure
- Ensure the patient rests for at least 5 minutes before taking the measurements to ensure you are more relaxed and comfortable
- When taking the measurements the patient should avoid alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine.
- Take the readings at least the same time each day
- If possible, take readings of the same arm when measuring the patient’s pressure
- Do not round off any measurements
- Avoid panicking if you read unexpectedly high readings
- Ensure the patient does not relax on taking your prescribed medications if the blood pressure drops
- In case of any concerns, you should consult your doctor immediately
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5. Use The Reading Efficiently To Track The Treatment
Once you have recorded the readings, you can determine whether the blood pressure is within normal range by using the guidelines below:
- prehypertension: 120–139 systolic; 80–89 diastolic
- normal: less than 120 systolic; less than 80 diastolic
- hypertension: 140 and higher systolic; 90 and higher diastolic
Depending on the readings you get you can consult the doctor to track the treatment method. You can also opt to make lifestyle changes if the patient’s blood pressure is high.
Generally, monitoring people with a risk of high blood pressure has been made easier through home blood pressure monitors. The monitors help to effectively track the health progress of the patient without making endless trips to the doctor.
James is a certified fitness and nutrition expert with over a decade of experience helping individuals transform their health. Passionate about strength training, meal planning, and sustainable wellness, James combines science-backed strategies with real-world practicality to help people achieve lasting results. Whether it's optimizing performance, building muscle, or improving overall well-being, James provides expert guidance tailored to all fitness levels.
