Make sure the tubing is not twisted when the monitor is stored, and keep it away from heat. Periodically check the tubing for cracks and leaks. Ask your doctor or nurse to teach you how to use your blood pressure monitor correctly. Proper use of it will help you and your doctor achieve good results in controlling your blood pressure. First, you need to know the meaning of a few terms.
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of the artery.
You may be asked to monitor your blood pressure at home because your office readings show that you have hypertension, or high blood pressure. Remember, your blood pressure changes during the day, according to the needs of your body. For example, blood pressure goes up when you exercise and goes down when you are resting or sleeping. You will be measuring the blood pressure in your brachial artery, a blood vessel that goes from your shoulder to just below your elbow. The blood pressure monitor will show two different pressure readings.