5
Blood Pressure Classification
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Society of Hypertension (ISH)
Why is it Important to Measure Your Blood Pressure at Home?
Having your blood pressure taken at the doctor’s office may cause you to become nervous, thus artificially
raising your reading. Having the ability to take your blood pressure at home makes it easy to record a log
of your daily readings. This will help you gain a greater understanding of your blood pressure reading and the
factors that affect it. Be sure that you share your information with your physician.
Hints for Accurate Measurement
1. Relax and try to remain still for 5 to 10 minutes before a measurement.
2. Remove any clothing on the upper arm so that the cuff can be placed directly on the
skin. Constriction of the upper arm caused by rolling up a shirt sleeve may cause an
inaccurate reading. Avoid this condition by completely removing the garment.
3. Refrain from eating, smoking and drinking (especially alcoholic beverages) before a
measurement. These activities can affect your blood pressure.
4. Remember that blood pressure varies continuously throughout the day. Try to take
your blood pressure at the same time each day.
Excessive
Constriction
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