Measuring Blood Pressure

Where?

You can get your blood pressure checked at:

• A doctor's office
• A pharmacy that has a blood pressure measurement machine
• Home with a blood pressure monitor

How?

If getting your blood pressure measured by a healthcare provider, they will guide you during the process. But if you're measuring your blood pressure at home or using a machine, these tips will make sure you get the most accurate reading. 

• Find a blood pressure device on the US Validated Device Listing
• Talk to your provider about how to use your blood pressure monitor
• Prepping for a Reading
  • Don't smoke, drink caffeinated beverages or exercise within 30 minutes before taking your blood pressure
  • Empty your bladder before your reading
• Putting on the Cuff Correctly
  • Place cuff directly against skin, not over clothing
  • Bottom of the cuff should be right above the bend of the elbow
  • Cuff should be snug but not too tight.
• Sitting Correctly
  • In a comfortable chair with back supported for at least 5 minutes before your reading
  • Both feet should be flat on the ground
  • Legs should not be crossed
  • Rest arm with the cuff on a table. Your upper arm should be at heart level.
  • Do not talk while your blood pressure is being measured
• Measure at the same time every day
• Take multiple readings 
  • Take two readings one minute apart
  • Record your results
  • Use this tracker to keep a record of your readings.

Learn more about how to measure your blood pressure at home.

• Blood Pressure Measurement Instructions     English | Español

Results

Your blood pressure reading has two numbers:

• Systolic (the first number): the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats
• Diastolic (the second number): the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats

Blood pressure readings fall under the following categories:

• Normal
  • Systolic: Less than 120 and
  • Diastolic: Less than 80
• Elevated 
  • Systolic: 120-129 and
  • Diastolic: Less than 80
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Stage 1
  • Systolic: 130-139 or
  • Diastolic: 80-89
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Stage 2
  • Systolic: 140 or higher or
  • Diastolic: 90 or higher
• Hypertensive Crisis (Consult your provider immediately)
  • Systolic: Higher than 190 and/or
  • Diastolic: Higher than 120

High blood pressure must be diagnosed by a healthcare provider. A provider should also evaluate any unusually low blood pressure readings.

Learn more about the numbers and what they mean.

Sources: CDC, American Heart Association