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Checking blood pressure at home gives you and your doctor a clearer picture than a single reading at the office. The key is choosing an accurate monitor and using it the right way every time.
Why upper-arm monitors?
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends automatic, cuff-style monitors that go on the upper arm. Wrist and finger monitors are smaller and handy, but their readings are more easily thrown off by hand position and body movement. If you can't use an upper-arm cuff, for example because of a very large arm or a medical reason, ask your doctor what to use instead.
Choose a validated device
Not every monitor on the market has been independently tested for accuracy. A validated device has been checked against strict testing standards. In the United States, you can look up a model on the US Blood Pressure Validated Device Listing at validatebp.org. Search for the exact model name or number before you buy.
Get the right cuff size
A cuff that is too small can give readings that are too high. A cuff that is too large can give readings that are too low. Getting the size right is one of the easiest ways to improve accuracy.
- Use a soft tape measure.
- Measure around your bare upper arm, about halfway between your shoulder and elbow.
- Compare the number to the arm range printed on the cuff or box.
- If you fall outside the included cuff's range, look for a monitor that offers a larger or smaller cuff.
Browse upper-arm blood pressure monitors on Amazon
Features to look for
| Feature | What it does | Who it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Memory | Saves past readings with date and time | Anyone tracking trends |
| Multiple users | Keeps separate records for two or more people | Couples or shared households |
| Irregular heartbeat indicator | Shows a symbol if the rhythm seemed uneven during a reading | Anyone; a flag to mention to your doctor |
| App or Bluetooth | Sends readings to a phone so you can share them | People who like digital logs |
| Large display and buttons | Easier to read and press | People with low vision or arthritis |
| Averaging | Takes or averages several readings | People who want simpler tracking |
An irregular heartbeat symbol is not a diagnosis. If it appears often, tell your doctor.
How to take an accurate reading
Before you measure
- Avoid caffeine, exercise and smoking for 30 minutes before.
- Empty your bladder.
- Sit quietly for 5 minutes before the first reading.
Your position
- Sit in a chair with your back supported.
- Keep your feet flat on the floor and your legs uncrossed.
- Rest your arm on a table so the cuff is at heart level.
- Put the cuff on your bare arm, not over a sleeve.
During the reading
- Don't talk, and try to stay still.
- Take 2 readings about 1 minute apart.
- Measure at the same times each day, such as morning and evening, or as your doctor suggests.
- Write down every reading, or let the monitor or app save it.
Find blood pressure log books on Amazon
Keep a simple log
Your doctor will want to see patterns over days and weeks, not single numbers. A good log includes the date, time, both readings, which arm you used and any notes, such as "missed medicine" or "felt dizzy." Bring the log or your phone to appointments.
Check your monitor's accuracy
The AHA suggests bringing your home monitor to your doctor's office. A nurse or doctor can compare its readings to theirs and check that you are using the right cuff size and technique. It's a good idea to do this when you first get the monitor and about once a year after that.
Understanding your numbers
Blood pressure is written as two numbers, like 118/76. The top number (systolic) is the pressure when your heart beats. The bottom number (diastolic) is the pressure between beats. The AHA defines normal blood pressure as less than 120/80.
Readings go up and down throughout the day, and one high reading is not cause for panic. Talk with your doctor about what your numbers mean for you and what targets to aim for. Follow your doctor's guidance about when to call them, and call 911 for symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness or trouble speaking.
Setting up for a senior or family member
If you're helping a parent or loved one, choose a monitor with a large screen and one-button start. Set it up at a table next to a comfortable chair with a back so the routine is easy. A cuff that's simple to put on with one hand helps people who live alone. If several people share the monitor, a multi-user model keeps their readings separate.
Shop easy-to-read monitors on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
Are wrist blood pressure monitors accurate?
They can be, but they are more sensitive to arm and hand position. The AHA recommends upper-arm monitors for most people. If you need a wrist monitor, ask your doctor and check that the model is validated.
Which arm should I use?
Your doctor may check both arms and tell you which one to use. Once you know, use the same arm each time so your readings are comparable.
Why are my home readings different from the doctor's office?
Many things affect blood pressure, including stress, activity and the time of day. Some people read higher at the office. That's one reason home readings are useful. Share both with your doctor.
How often should I take my blood pressure?
Ask your doctor. A common approach is to take readings at the same times each day, but your doctor may suggest a specific schedule, especially after a medication change.