Home Blood Pressure Monitoring | American Heart Association

The American Heart Association recommends home monitoring for all people with high blood pressure to help their health care professional know if treatments are working. Home monitoring can also be used to confirm the diagnosis of high blood pressure. However, home monitoring does not replace regular doctor visits. Do not stop taking blood pressure medication without checking with your health care professional regardless of your readings during home monitoring.

Monitoring at home is especially important for:

The AHA recommends an automatic, cuff-style, upper arm (biceps) monitor.

Once you’ve purchased your monitor, take it to your next appointment.

Have your health care professional check to see that you are using it correctly and getting the same results as the equipment in the office. Plan to bring your monitor in once a year, or as directed by the company, to make sure the readings are accurate.

Discuss how to use your home blood pressure monitor with your health care professional. It’s important to have them make sure your home monitor is accurate and that you have the correct cuff size and fit. A cuff that is the incorrect size will cause an inaccurate blood pressure reading.

When preparing to take your blood pressure:

Download a PDF sheet that shows you how to measure your blood pressure properly. Also available in Spanish, Traditional Chinese and Simplified Chinese.

Learn what the numbers in your blood pressure reading mean.

Note: Only a doctor or other medical professional can confirm a high blood pressure diagnosis. They also can evaluate low blood pressure numbers.

Download this chart:

One blood pressure measurement is like a snapshot. It tells what your blood pressure is at that moment. A record of readings taken over time provides a more complete picture of your blood pressure. This can help you work with your doctor to make sure that your treatments to reduce your blood pressure are working.

Last Reviewed: May 20, 2024