Summarize the following:
When you get a regular checkup, the nurse will almost always take your blood pressure before the doctor comes in. Ask for the reading after the nurse takes your blood pressure and discuss the results with your doctor. This is the best way to get an accurate reading and sound medical advice at the same time. If you aren't having any symptoms of low blood pressure, like dizziness or fatigue, it's probably fine to just wait for your next physical to get your blood pressure taken. Many local drug stores and pharmacies have machines that you can use for free to check your blood pressure. Simply slide your arm into the opening and press the start button to wait for the machine to take your reading. This is a great way to get a basic idea of where you're blood pressure is at. If nobody is waiting to use the machine, sit down for 5 minutes or so before taking your blood pressure to get a more accurate reading. These are available from nearly every pharmacy or supermarket, and can cost as little as $20. These devices are a great way to keep track of your blood pressure numbers from the comfort of your own home. Simply wrap the band around your bicep and turn the machine on to take your reading. Sit still and relax for 5 minutes before you take your blood pressure so that physical exertion doesn't affect your reading. Additionally, put your feet flat against your floor while you take the reading and don't cross your legs. When checking your blood pressure, the systolic reading, which is the top number, should be 90-120. The diastolic reading, which is the bottom number, should be around 60-80. If the systolic reading is lower than 90 or your diastolic reading is lower than 60, you have low blood pressure Systolic blood pressure measures the pressure that is exerted on the arteries by the force of your blood being pushed through by your heart. Think of your body as a pipe. The systolic reading is how hard the water presses on the pipe when it's flowing. Diastolic blood pressure measures the pressure that exists in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. If it helps, think of it as how hard the water pushes on the pipe when the tap on your sink is off. Keep in mind that everyone's body is different, and you will experience fluctuations over the course of each day. However, blood pressure numbers should be kept as close to these averages as possible.
See your doctor if you want the most accurate blood pressure reading possible. Check your pressure using the machine at a drug store for a general estimate. Buy a blood pressure monitor if you want to take regular readings at home. Recognize that a reading lower than 90/60 indicates low blood pressure.