5
Why Should I Monitor My Blood Pressure At Home?
By monitoring at home, you may manage your health between doc-
tor visits. Home monitoring also provides you with a record of
blood pressure measurements over time to give to your doctor - a
valuable tool in monitoring hypertension.
Home monitoring may also help alleviate White Coat
Hypertension. This term refers to the medical phenomena which
causes many individuals’ blood pressure to be higher when taken
in a medical office setting. That’s because many times the stress
of being in the doctor’s office may cause blood pressure to rise as
much as 20-50 points higher than normal. When monitoring at
home, you may get a truer indication of your blood pressure in a
normal, relaxed state.
What Is Blood Pressure?
The commonly used term “blood pressure” refers to the force or
pressurethat is exerted on the body’s arteries as blood flows
through them. Each time the heart beats or contracts
it produces pressure in the arteries. This blood
pressure is what moves blood through the
body, supplying oxygen and nutrients to
every organ.
Commonly Asked Questions About Blood Pressure
Commonly Asked Questions
About Blood Pressure
4Healthy Living
Healthy Living
BE HAPPY! - A positive attitude is a big part of a healthy body. Try
not to get too stressed out over things. Daily relaxation techniques
such as gentle yoga or even quiet time by yourself can do a lot of
good for the mind and body. Stay focused on the good things in life.
Begin by congratulating yourself for that short walk you just took or
the smart food choice you made. It’s your first step to a healthier
life!
KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR WEIGHT! - Surprisingly, losing even a
small amount of weight can often times help control high blood
pressure. Talk with your doctor to find a “healthy” weight for you
and strive to come within a range of it.
Remember to consult your physician prior to beginning exercise,
vitamin/mineral, dietary changes or programs and blood pressure
monitoring.