3.7. Why Measure Blood Pressure at Home?
Clinical studies have shown improved detection and treatment of hypertension when regular home blood
pressure monitoring is done in consultation with a physician.
Blood pressure measured in a doctor's office or hospital setting may cause anxiety and lead to an elevated
reading—a condition referred to as "white coat hypertension."
Home measurements generally reduce the "outside" influences on blood pressure readings, and can
provide a more comprehensive and meaningful blood pressure history.
Note:
While it is important to keep an accurate record of your blood pressure measurements, don't be
overly concerned by the results of any one measurement. Individual results may be influenced by spiking
of your pressure due to diet, anxiety, or mis-measurement resulting from excessive arm movement, or
misapplication of the cuff. Many readings taken at the same time each day give a more comprehensive
blood pressure history.
Always be sure to note the date and time when recording blood pressure and pulse measurements. For
best results, and with time permitting, 3 successive measurements may be taken daily. Make sure to allow
at least 1 minute between measurements. Discard any reading that appears suspect and record the average
of the remaining readings.
3.8. How is Blood Pressure Measured?
Healthcare professionals traditionally use a device known as a sphygmomanometer along with a
stethoscope - essentially a professional version of the very same instrument you have purchased. The
sphygmomanometer is a system consisting of an inflatable bladder contained within a cuff, inflation bulb
with air control valve, and pressure measuring manometer (gauge). The gauge may be mechanical,
electronic, or mercurial. The cuff is wrapped around the limb and inflated to constrict blood flow to the
artery. As pressure is released from the cuff through the deflation valve, blood flow returns to the artery
producing pulse beats known as Korotkoff sounds, which are detected with the stethoscope. Systolic
pressure is recorded at the onset of these sounds. Diastolic pressure is generally recorded when the
sounds disappear (when blood flow to the artery returns to normal).
3.9. How should I record my blood pressure?
Record your blood pressure by setting up a simple chart in a spiral-bound notebook as shown below, or
use the included record book.
Date Time Reading Pulse
4/24 7:50AM 128/83 72
4/25 8:00AM 135/77 77
4/26 7:45AM 130/75 71
4/27 2:00PM 153/89 80
If you like you can add a column for comments about your condition at the time of measurement, or a
listing of any factors that may have influenced your readings (such as "had a cold", or "just returned from
vacation").
For best results, and with time permitting, 3 successive measurements may be taken daily. Make sure to
allow at least a 1 minute interval between measurements. Discard any reading that appears suspect and
record the average of the remaining readings. If this method is used, be sure to note that the readings are
averaged.
On the Advantage™ Ultra (6016N) model, PC Link software is available. Records can be automatically
transferred to your Windows computer. Many smart phone and tablet apps allow you to record, chart, and
share your BP measurements. ADC recommends Microsoft® Healthvault™.
