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Should I Have an at Home Blood Pressure Cuff?

High blood pressure is an epidemic often called the “Silent Killer.” This is because you can be running around with high blood pressure and never feel it or know it. High blood pressure is also a risk factor for Diabetes and can be a risk factor for heart attack or stroke.

When your blood pressure is measured there are two numbers that represent your pressure reading. These numbers represent the pressure on the arterial wall.

The first number is what’s called the Systolic Blood Pressure. This is the heart while it is at work and pumping blood and oxygen to the heart and working muscles.
The second number is what’s called the Diastolic Blood Pressure. This is the heart at rest while refilling.

Below are the norms for normal to high blood pressure. Normal systolic blood pressure is under 119 and normal diastolic is 79 or under. High blood pressure would be a systolic of 130 to 139 and a diastolic of 80 to 89.

The higher the number gets Systolic over 140 and Diastolic over 90 increases your risk.

It is a great Idea for people with Diabetes to have an at home blood pressure cuff and monitor regularly. Chances are that your physician has put you on a blood pressure medication to keep your numbers in normal levels or 119/79 or below. Sometimes people on medications can be significantly lower which can be checked with your doctor if you are symptomatic. If your number gets to higher ranges while on medication it is a good idea to consult your physician or nurse practitioner.

You can check your blood pressure daily or as needed. Its also a good idea to check family members as high blood pressure can be genetic. There are a variety of quality blood pressure cuffs. You can use Amazon or your local Walgreen's, CVS or Medical Supply companies to purchase and compare brands and prices. Naturally also check online to do some research.

Most of these cuffs are accurate as far as your measurement. You can check the ratings on all. You may also want to calibrate it when you go to your doctors visit and compare readings.

The good news is that High Blood Pressure is treatable through medication, exercise and diet. Aerobic exercise can help to deliver blood and oxygen to the heart and working muscles which helps make the heart more efficient. Also limiting sodium and staying under 2000 mg of sodium a day is paramount. This is less than a teaspoon of salt a day. Weight loss can help bring down blood pressure by making the heart more efficient and taking strain off the heart and the joints.

I encourage your regular medical checkups and measuring your pressure regularly. I thank you for taking the time to read my blog and visit my website.