Keep tabs on your blood pressure for heart health.

High blood pressure affects nearly half of all adults & is a major risk factor for heart disease

Cut your risk of getting high blood pressure or help manage your pressure with these steps:

• Monitor your blood pressure at home.
• Stay active—aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly.
• Maintain a healthy weight and balanced diet.
• Manage your sodium intake—most adults should aim for under 1,500 mg daily.
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol.
• Manage stress.
• Take medications as prescribed.

Communicating with your health care provider is key as they can offer education and support. If you’re prescribed a new medication or advised to make changes to your routine, scheduling a follow-up appointment can help ensure you’re on the right track.

Taking regular, at-home blood pressure readings can give your doctor a more accurate picture of your blood pressure over time.

Improve the accuracy of your blood pressure readings at home

Before

• No caffeine, tobacco, or exercise 30 minutes prior.
• Sit calmly for at least 5 minutes with arm support and back at rest.
• Keep a log of your readings and bring it to every check-up.

During

• Don’t talk.
• Place well-fitting cuff on bare upper arm.
• Support your whole cuffed arm at heart level on a flat surface.
• Sit still with feet flat on the floor.

After

• Wait one minute and retake your blood pressure.
• Average the readings.
• Consider a third reading.
• Bring your device to your doctor’s visit yearly to make sure it is accurate.