Your blood pressure shows how much your body has to work to pump blood to your organs. It can be low (hypotension), normal, or high (hypertension). Having hypotension or hypertension can cause medical conditions like heart disease or diminished brain function. So if you are a person with a blood pressure problem, then a home-style automatic blood pressure cuff is must for you. Let’s learn how to use it properly.

How to use an automatic blood pressure cuff?

Sit in an appropriate posture to take your blood pressure. 

• Sit in a chair next to a table.
• Rest your left forearm on the table.
• Position your left arm so that it rests at about heart level.
• Keep the palm of your hand facing up.
• Sit up straight so that your back is against the back of the chair and keep your feet flat on the floor without crossing your legs.

After you’re comfortable and have sat quietly for a few minutes, start the test. 

Home-style automatic blood pressure cuff

It’s a very simple device to use at home. Let’s learn how.

1. Remove the automatic blood pressure monitor from the packaging and place it on a flat stable surface. Make sure the batteries have already been inserted into the monitor.
2. Complete the assembly by inserting the pointed end of the air hose tube onto the left side of the blood pressure monitor.
3. Take a few deep and relaxing breaths before monitoring your blood pressure. Place the monitor near you in a stable position.
4. While taking relaxing and deep breaths, place the cuff of the automatic blood pressure monitor onto your arm. Place the cuff on your bare upper arm one inch above the bend of your elbow. Pull the end of the cuff so that it’s evenly tight around your arm. You should place it tight enough so that you can only slip two fingertips under the top edge of the cuff.

Note: Make sure the hose attaches to the cuff facing toward the inside of your elbow. On all types of blood pressure cuffs, there is an illustration about the proper placement of the cuff.

Inflate the cuff to test.

• To get started, wait a moment, then press start. Remain still and quiet as the machine begins measuring.
• The cuff will inflate, then slowly deflate so that the machine can take your measurement. 
• When the reading is complete, the monitor displays three readings, two for blood pressure and one showing pulse on the digital panel. 

Do additional tests.

• Run one or two additional tests after your first reading. This can ensure you get the most accurate blood pressure reading.
• Wait a minute or two in between each test.
• Follow the same procedure for each of the readings you do.

Take off the cuff. 

Wait for the cuff to deflate and take it off your arm. Make sure to not move suddenly or quickly. You may be slightly lightheaded after you take off the cuff, but this sensation should go away relatively quickly.

Write down your results.

It’s important to record your test results when you’re done with each test. Write down any relevant information in a notebook or save it on your monitor if possible. The results can help you figure out the most accurate reading of your pressure, and identify potentially problematic fluctuations.

Avoid factors that can affect your blood pressure.

Factors that can affect blood pressure include stress, smoking, exercise, cold temperatures, a full stomach, a full bladder, caffeine, and some medications. These factors cause a temporary hike in your blood pressure. Let’s learn how can you avoid them.

Measure at the same time every day. 

Test your blood pressure at the same time every day. This helps ensure the most accurate reading. It’s best to take your blood pressure in the morning when you are most relaxed. But make sure you’ve been awake and out of bed for at least 30 minutes.

Find a quiet place.

Stressful distraction can lead to temporary hikes in blood pressure numbers. That is why checking your blood pressure in a quiet and calm room where you feel more relaxed and free of stress is recommended. In this way, you are more likely to get an accurate reading in a stress-free environment.

Get comfortable.

Physical stress can also affect a blood pressure reading. So make sure,

• Use the bathroom before you have your blood pressure taken. 
• Keep yourself warm as cold temperature also causes a temporary increase in your blood pressure. 
• Headache or any sort of body ache is also a type of physical stress that makes you uncomfortable, so try to relieve the pain before taking your blood pressure.
• Avoid any type of physical activity or exercise for 30 minutes before testing.

Remove tight sleeves.

It’s best to change your tight-sleeved shirt to expose your upper arm. Always take blood pressure from the left upper arm.

Stay away from food, beverages, caffeine, or tobacco:

All these favors cause your blood pressure numbers to alter. So stay away from them for 30 minutes before you test yourself.

Rest for 5 to 10 minutes.

It will make your heart rate and blood pressure, stabilize before taking the measurement.

To learn about how to check blood pressure using a stethoscope, please visit the healthcare pages at howtothings.net.

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this blog post is not aimed at substituting for professional medical advice or treatment. It’s always appreciated to contact your healthcare provider before starting, shifting, or halting any health treatment.