Measure your blood pressure at home, not at the clinic

Get a validated upper-arm cuff. Check that it is on the list at validatebp.org and that the cuff size fits your arm. Wrist cuffs aren't accurate enough.

For: everyone · What you need

Measure twice a day for 7 days. Morning before coffee, exercise, breakfast, or blood pressure medicine; evening before dinner or at least 30 minutes after eating. Take 2 readings 1 minute apart each time.

For: everyone · How to measure

Send us every reading. We drop day 1, which usually reads high, and average the rest.

For: everyone · When you're done

Know the two lines. Our aim is a home average under 115/75. At 130/80 or higher, take the average and your readings to your doctor.

For: everyone · What the numbers mean

Get help right away at 180/120 with symptoms. Chest pain, shortness of breath, a severe headache, vision changes, confusion, weakness, numbness, or trouble speaking: call 911.

For: everyone · When to get help