High blood pressure — or hypertension — is a serious medical condition that can take a toll on your brain, eyes, heart, kidneys and arteries. It progresses stealthily over time, often causing no symptoms until the damage is done.
If you’re concerned about your blood pressure or have been diagnosed with hypertension, the MNPS Health Care Centers can help you keep it in check.
Our providers can:
Check your blood pressure
Discuss family history, stress, diet, exercise and other factors that affect blood pressure
Create a management plan for you, which may include medication and follow-ups
Suggest health coaching for one-on-one assistance with lifestyle changes
Guide you on how to self-monitor at home (see below for steps)
There’s no cost to see a provider at the MNPS Health Care Centers
if you’re covered under the Certificated Employee Health Plan.
A small cost-share may apply for certain Medicare-eligible retirees.
How high blood pressure harms
Untreated high blood pressure can:
Compromise blood flow to the brain, causing strokes, dementia and cognitive issues
Damage delicate blood vessels in the eyes, which can cause retinopathy and other eye diseases
Lead to narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart (known as coronary artery disease), which decreases blood flow and can cause heart attacks
Cause the heart muscle to become weaker, potentially leading to heart failure
Prevent kidneys from filtering waste from the blood because of blood vessel damage, which can ultimately cause kidney failure
As you can see, the stakes are high. So how do you know if your blood pressure is consistently within normal range — or if you need to take steps to lower it?
Home monitoring is a simple, convenient way to keep track. Keep reading to learn how.
Choose your monitor
There are lots of reliable home blood pressure monitors on the market. They vary in price depending on features, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end, smart models. And they’re readily available at many retail locations, including pharmacies.
You can choose between upper arm, wrist or finger monitors. Monitors with a cuff for the upper arm are the most accurate, while wrist monitor readings can vary based on improper positioning or movement. Finger monitors are the most convenient but the least accurate.
Know what’s normal
Before you get started, it’s important to know what’s considered normal. Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers:
Systolic pressure is the top number that measures pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.
Diastolic pressure, the bottom number, measures pressure in the arteries between heartbeats.
Use the chart below to see where your readings fall:
Category | Reading |
Normal | Below 120/80 |
Elevated | 120-129/less than 80 |
High blood pressure stage 1 | 130-139/80-89 |
High blood pressure stage 2 | 140/90 or higher |
Hypertensive crisis | 180/120 or higher (requires immediate medical attention) |
Keep in mind that the above is a general guide; your provider will let you know what your target numbers should be.
Get started
Follow these steps to get the most accurate at-home readings. If yours are consistently higher than normal, talk to your provider. They can help you manage your blood pressure by recommending lifestyle changes and, if necessary, prescribe medication.
Ready
Wait at least 30 minutes after drinking caffeinated beverages, smoking, eating a meal or exercising.
Empty your bladder.
Remove clothing from the arm you’ll use.
Find a quiet, comfortable spot to sit.
Set
Sit with your back straight and supported by a chair, with your feet flat on the floor.
Don’t cross your legs.
Keep your arm supported on a flat surface, with palm turned up.
Position your arm so the cuff is at heart level.
Measure
Sit quietly for about five minutes.
Take two or three measurements, one minute apart.
If your monitor doesn't store readings, keep a log to share with your doctor as instructed.
Ready to take control of your blood pressure? Schedule a visit today.