With the wide availability of blood pressure cuffs at local stores, many Americans are starting to realize the importance of knowing what your blood pressure is. As we struggle with rising heart disease and heart attacks, being aware of what your blood pressure is can literally save your life.
Checking your blood pressure is just part of the solution to keeping a healthy heart. Along with the blood pressure cuff, your life expectancy can be increased if you also practice healthy lifestyle habits. A reading of 120/80 is considered normal range and higher than that you fall under the "at risk" category. If your reading is over 140 you are in the high blood pressure category.
A visit to your doctor is necessary if you find your blood pressure in the risky range for a check- up. On your visit you most likely will be given a stress test to check how your heart function is and your doctor will instruct you on what changes to make for your health.
The easiest ways to lead a healthier life is to exercise and change your diet. A doctor will be able to give more specific recommendations and tell you what you are able to do.
Your doctor may want you to monitor your blood pressure and heart rate at home, in which case you will need to find a monitor that is easy to use. Your doctor will be able to give you advise on how to find one that will provide you with accurate results.
You can choose between digital and aneroid blood pressure monitors and knowing the difference between those kinds will make it easier for you to decide what to buy. The easiest way to choose a monitor is to find one that meets your personal needs.
The first monitor is very inexpensive and user-friendly and is called the aneroid monitor. A word of caution is that they are extremely sensitive and are damaged and broken easily, plus you need a stethoscope connected to a cuff.
Digital monitors are about the size of a cell phone and come connected to a cuff worn on the arm. This cuff measures the blood pressure and displays it on a monitor. Some models will print the results, or come equipped with a memory of the last measurements.
When the time comes to make a choice you have to decide if you want the digital monitor that is more expensive but easier to use or the less expensive aneroid that breaks easier but can be replaced inexpensively.
Another option that is not as accurate are wrist or finger blood monitors. While these may seem like a good option for convenience, researchers have shown they aren't reliable, which could put your health at risk.
When you begin to take your blood pressure to be sure you get an accurate reading do not drink caffeine, alcohol or smoke as they can inflate your pressure artificially. Also when you take your blood pressure reading, write them down and bring on your doctor visit for him to see.
Try to take your blood pressure reading when you are relaxed as even a little bit stressed can elevate your pressure.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension, keeping a blood pressure monitor handy can help you find ways to get an accurate reading to benefit your health.
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