LANSING, Mich. – Almost half of adults in the U.S. deal with high blood pressure, but only about 25% have it under control.
Managing this condition doesn’t always require frequent doctor visits. Many blood pressure readings taken in clinics can be misleading. In fact, a study from the University of Michigan Health shows that one in five readings may not be accurate. Anxiety during appointments often causes spikes in blood pressure.
Dr. Geoffrey Barnes emphasizes the importance of getting accurate readings at home. He shares some simple tips to help you measure your blood pressure correctly:
- Use an arm cuff instead of a wrist cuff for better accuracy.
- Sit in a supportive chair with your feet flat on the floor. Relax for 5 to 10 minutes before measuring.
- Take three readings in a row and record only the third one, as it will be the most precise.
If you don’t have a blood pressure cuff at home, consider buying one. Many local pharmacies also offer machines for public use.
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