Understanding Blood Pressure for Better Control
Posted on June 30, 2022
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels as your heart pumps. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is when the force against the blood vessels is too high, making your heart work harder. High blood pressure can lead to heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and other complications. Controlling your blood pressure and knowing your numbers are very important to your overall health.
Know Your Blood Pressure Numbers
Talk with your doctor about your blood pressure, how often you should check it, and any lifestyle or medication changes needed to help manage it. The chart below can help explain blood pressure ranges, and what to look out for when checking blood pressure at home.
How to Take Your Own Blood Pressure at Home
If you have an automatic blood pressure monitor, you can take your blood pressure measurement at home. As part of regular monitoring for control, you can self-report your blood pressure numbers to your doctor during a telehealth visit, if appropriate.
For an accurate reading when checking blood pressure at home, be sure to do the following:
• Empty your bladder first (full bladder adds 10 mm Hg)
• Use the correct cuff size and put it on your bare arm
• Support your arm on a table/desk at heart level
• Keep your legs uncrossed and do not talk
• If your reading seems high, wait 15 minutes and re-check to confirm
If you don’t have an automatic blood pressure monitor at home, you can use your over-the-counter (OTC) products allowance from FirstLineTM Essentials to purchase one. Order a blood pressure monitor using your FirstLine Benefits catalog or log in at shopfirstlinebenefits.com.
Reminder: You have $40 every three months to spend on specific over-the-counter drugs and other health-related pharmacy products. Learn more about this benefit at healthnewengland.org/medicare/OTC-2022.
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