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You might find it helpful to monitor your blood pressure using a home blood pressure monitor. This can be a really useful way to see how what your blood pressure is like in your daily life.
For what blood pressure readings mean, click here.
Your doctor or nurse may also be interested to know what your blood pressure is like when you are away from the clinic, speak to them about monitoring at home.
Video - How to use a home blood pressure monitor
Home blood pressure monitors
If you are thinking of measuring your blood pressure at home, it is important to choose the right home monitor. Digital blood pressure monitors that measure at your upper arm are usually more accurate and consistent.
Whatever automatic home blood pressure monitor you choose, make sure that it has been ‘clinically validated’. This means that it has been tested and it gives results that you can trust.
List of clinically validated blood pressure monitors, click here.
Video - Why measuring at home is important
When and how to use your home blood pressure monitor
Ask your doctor or nurse for advice about how often to use your home blood pressure monitor. It can be a good idea to check regularly at first, but then less often as you go on.
Try to measure your blood pressure at the same time of day, when your body is relaxed. Try to make sure that you compare ‘like with like’.
Home blood pressure monitoring is not for everyone. If you find that it is making you more anxious about your blood pressure, speak to your doctor or nurse.
