If you've been told your blood pressure is borderline high, your GP may have asked you to monitor it at home for a week. Here's how to do it right.
What to buy
Get an upper-arm cuff (not a wrist monitor — wrist devices are far less accurate). Look for the British and Irish Hypertension Society seal of approval on the box. Decent models start around £30 from any reputable pharmacy.
How to take a reading
- Sit quietly for 5 minutes before measuring. No phone, no TV.
- Back supported, feet flat on the floor, arm resting at heart level.
- Don't talk during the reading.
- Take two readings 1 minute apart and write down the second one.
- Repeat morning and evening for 7 days.
What the numbers mean
- Under 135/85 at home — you're in the safe zone.
- 135–149 / 85–94 — discuss with your GP; lifestyle changes first.
- 150/95 or above — needs a clinician review.
The numbers at home are usually lower than what you'd get at the surgery (the "white coat effect"). Your GP knows this and will treat your home average as the real picture.
Pop in and we'll happily check your technique and read your numbers with you — first time's on the house.
