13
Facts about Blood Pressure and Self-
Measurement
• Blood pressure is the pressure of the blood flowing in the arteries,
generated by the pumping of the heart.
• Two values, the systolic (upper) value and the diastolic (lower) value,
are always measured. This device also indicates pulse rate (the
number of times the heart beats in a minute).
• Permanently high blood pressure can damage your health and must
be treated by your doctor.
• Always discuss your results with your doctor if you have noticed
anything unusual or feel unsure about the results. Never rely on a
single blood pressure reading.
• Under no circumstances should you alter the dosages of any drugs
prescribed by your doctor.
• Depending on physical exertion and other conditions, blood pressure
is subject to wide fluctuations, especially as the day progresses.
You should, therefore, take your measurements under the same
conditions, when you are relaxed.
• Take at least two measurements per day - one in the morning and
one in the evening.
• It is quite normal for two measurements taken in quick succession to
produce significantly different results.
• Differences in measurements taken by your doctor or at the
pharmacy and those taken at home are quite normal, as these
environments are very different.
Safety and Protection
• This device and cuff have sensitive components and must be
treated with care.
• Protect this device from:
- water and moisture.
- extreme temperatures.
- damage from impact or drops.
- contamination and dust.
- direct sunlight.
- heat and cold.
