High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a serious health concern that affects millions every year, globally. The condition is marked by an increased pace of blood flow through the heart arteries, leading to extreme force or pressure against their walls, which can eventually put your heart and blood vessels under increased strain. Experts often call this condition a ‘silent killer disease’, due to the fact that it doesn’t really come with obvious signs and symptoms. However, there are a few odds that one can notice in their body when their blood pressure is high.
In this article, we tell you how to check your BP at home, and what should be the range for a healthy adult. And most importantly how to interpret the BP results.
How to Measure Your Blood Pressure at Home
One of the best ways to keep track of your blood pressure is to measure it at home. If you are confused about how you can do it, we got your back! To check your blood pressure accurately, you will be needing a BP measuring device called a blood pressure monitor, or sphygmomanometer. Now that you have the device, follow these simple steps to check your BP count, and know if you have hypertension or not.
- Step 1: Look for a comfortable seat where your back can get some support and your feet can lie flat on the ground.
- Step 2: Y must relax your body and rest for at least 5 minutes before checking your BP.
- Step 3: Now, secure the cuff around your upper arm, making sure it’s in line with your heart.
- Step 4: Inflate the cuff by following the directions that come with your blood pressure monitor.
- Step 5: Slowly release the cuff and write down the two numbers you see: systolic pressure (the first number) and diastolic pressure (the second number).
If you are confused about these two numbers, we have explained them below for you!
Do You Have a High BP? Here’s How To Know
Blood pressure readings usually come in two numbers, for example, 120/80 mmHg. The first number is called systolic pressure, which measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart pumps. The second number is diastolic pressure, representing the pressure in your arteries when your heart relaxes between pumps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what these numbers indicate:
- Normal: If your reading is less than 120/80 mmHg, you’re in the normal range.
- High BP: Readings that fall between 120-129 and remain below 80 indicate elevated blood pressure.
- Hypertension Stage 1: Readings from 130-139/80-89 mean you may be in stage 1 hypertension.
- Hypertension Stage 2: If your readings are 140/90 mmHg or above, you’re likely facing stage 2 hypertension.
- Hypertensive Crisis: A reading higher than 180/120 mmHg needs immediate medical help.
Just know this – If left untreated, high blood pressure could lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney issues. Therefore, it’s essential to keep an eye on your blood pressure regularly to help maintain a healthy level.
How To Manage Your Blood Pressure?
Managing blood pressure requires regulating lifestyle habits such as what you are eating, how much exercise you are doing, how you are taking care of your mental health, etc. Regularly checking your blood pressure at home is a proactive way to safeguard your health.
All you need to do is to understand what high blood pressure is, how to measure it correctly at home all by yourself, and understand how to dissect and read your results. However, do not forget to reach out to your healthcare provider for tailored advice and treatment based on your blood pressure readings. Stay informed and prioritize your well-being!