How to Manage Blood Pressure Accurately

Hypertension, often known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which the blood vessels have consistently elevated pressure. 

It is often called the ‘silent killer' because you can have high blood pressure for years without any symptoms. 

Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases your risk of serious health problems, including heart attack and stroke. Fortunately, high blood pressure can be easily detected.

Also, there are two numbers in your blood pressure reading. 

The systolic blood pressure is the top figure, and it measures the pressure on the blood vessel walls when your heart beats or contracts. 

The diastolic blood pressure is the bottom figure, and it measures the pressure in your blood vessels between beats when your heart is relaxing. It is very important to regularly check your blood pressure.

Below are some tips on measuring your blood pressure accurately. 

Tips to Measure Blood Pressure Accurately

• Before taking your blood pressure, don't smoke, drink caffeinated beverages, or exercise for at least 30 minutes.

• Ensure you use a cuff that fits your arm properly. Cuffs that are too small can cause your blood pressure to rise artificially.

• If you exercise after waking, take your blood pressure before exercising.

• Always sit for five minutes in a comfortable position with your legs and ankles uncrossed and your back supported against a chair before and while checking your blood pressure

• Take your blood pressure at the same time daily.

• Make sure your arm is properly positioned to the level of your heart, on a table or desk.

• Ensure the cuff is placed on your bare skin and not over your clothing.

• Measure your blood pressure twice daily. 

• Always take two or three readings to make sure your results are accurate.

Home blood pressure monitoring is not a replacement for doctor appointments. 

Even if your readings are normal, do not stop or change your medications or your diet without speaking to a health professional.

Please remember that hypertension is not a death sentence. 

Always speak with a health professional about how to accurately measure and keep your blood pressure in check. With the right medications and lifestyle changes, you can live a long and fulfilling life even with hypertension.