Some people with very large arms may not have access to a well-fitting upper arm cuff at home. Some blood pressure monitors can take several readings and report the averages.ĭigital monitors that are fitted on the upper arm are generally the most accurate.

The device calculates heart rate and blood flow by measuring the changes in the motion of the artery as the blood flows through while the cuff deflates. The cuff's outer layer has a fastener to hold the cuff in place. The cuff's inner layer fills with air and squeezes the arm. Monitoring blood pressure at home can help determine if you have true high blood pressure. Other people whose blood pressure is OK at a clinic have higher blood pressure elsewhere (masked hypertension). Some people have spikes in blood pressure due to nervousness during a medical visit (white coat hypertension). Check if your blood pressure differs outside a medical office.Self-monitoring might help cut down on medical visits. Self-monitoring might help you feel more motivated to control your blood pressure with improved diet, physical activity and proper medication use. Self-monitoring can give you a stronger sense of control over your health. Monitoring blood pressure changes at home can help you and your care provider make decisions about treatment, such as adjusting dosages or changing medications. The only way to know whether your lifestyle changes or medications are working is to check your blood pressure regularly. Home monitoring is especially important for people with elevated blood pressure or another condition that could contribute to high blood pressure, such as diabetes or kidney problems. Self-monitoring can help your health care provider diagnose high blood pressure earlier than if you have only occasional blood pressure readings in a medical office. Monitoring your blood pressure at home can:

Air relax arm cuff