How to take an accurate blood pressure reading at home

Home readings help your care team see your real pattern, away from the stress of a clinic. But small things can change a reading a lot. This checklist follows American Heart Association guidance.

Choose the right monitor

• Use an automatic cuff that goes on your upper arm. Wrist and finger monitors are not recommended because they give less reliable readings.
• Pick a validated monitor and a cuff that fits your arm. A pharmacist can help.
• Bring your monitor to a visit so your care team can check it against theirs. Check it about once a year.

Before you measure

• For 30 minutes before: no smoking, no caffeine, no exercise.
• Use the bathroom first. A full bladder can raise your reading.
• Sit quietly for at least 5 minutes. No talking, no phone.

While you measure

• Sit with your back supported and feet flat on the floor. Do not cross your legs.
• Rest your arm on a table so the cuff is at heart level. Use a pillow if you need to.
• Put the cuff on bare skin, not over a sleeve. The bottom edge goes just above the bend of your elbow.
• Take two readings, one minute apart. Write down both.
• Measure at about the same time each day. Ask your clinician how often.

Why do my numbers change so much?

Blood pressure naturally rises and falls through the day. It can go up with stress, pain, cold, a big meal, or rushing. One high number does not always mean something is wrong. Look at your average over time.

What if I get one high reading?

Wait a minute and take it again. Write down both numbers. If you are concerned, or you think your monitor is off, check in with your healthcare professional.