High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Feeling well does not tell you whether it is controlled, and one isolated reading may not represent your usual level. If your clinician recommends home monitoring, ask for a clear measurement schedule and instructions.
Use a suitable validated monitor and the correct cuff size. Follow the device instructions and the technique demonstrated by your clinician. Record the date, time and readings rather than keeping only the highest or lowest number. Also note symptoms or unusual circumstances that may help explain the result.
Bring the record and a current medicine list to your review. Home readings and clinic readings can differ, so the clinician may recommend repeated measurements or ambulatory monitoring. Your personal target depends on your clinical circumstances; avoid comparing yourself with a friend’s treatment plan.
Lifestyle measures such as regular activity, less salt and limiting alcohol support blood-pressure care. Some people also need medicines. Keep taking prescribed treatment unless a clinician advises otherwise, and ask what to do if readings are repeatedly outside your agreed range.
Arrange review for persistently high readings. Call 112 for severe chest pain, severe breathlessness or sudden weakness or speech difficulty, regardless of the blood-pressure reading.
This article is general health information and does not replace an individual medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment plan.