With the abundance of home blood pressure monitoring devices, tracking and keeping an eye on your own blood pressure has never been easier. FamilyDoctor.org explains that you can use home automatic blood pressure devices to monitor changes throughout the day and to determine the effectiveness of your blood pressure medication. When you use a digital blood pressure monitor, most monitors will give you three numbers on the screen at the conclusion of the test that will tell you your systolic pressure, your diastolic pressure and your pulse rate.
Step 1
Look for the top number, which is the systolic pressure. It is usually listed on top or first, and it is denoted by an SYS on most monitors. In addition, the systolic number will be the highest blood pressure number and usually is the biggest number on the monitor. According to FamilyDoctor.org, the systolic pressure is the highest pressure in an artery when your heart is pumping blood to your body. In addition, FamilyDoctor.org notes that any systolic reading above 120 can be cause for concern.
Step 2
Find the diastolic pressure, which is usually denoted by a DIA on the monitor. In addition, the diastolic pressure is usually listed second or below the systolic reading, and it will be the lower of the two blood pressure readings. According to FamilyDoctor.org, the diastolic pressure is the lowest pressure in an artery when your heart is at rest. FamilyDoctor.org also notes that any diastolic reading above 80 can be cause for concern.
Step 3
Check for the pulse rate number, which is usually displayed by pulse on most monitors. The number stands for your pulse rate or the number of heartbeats that you have in one minute.
Things You'll Need
- Blood pressure monitoring device
