04/05/2023
KNOW YOUR NUMBERS.
Hypertension is a major cause of a range of health problems such as strokes, heart attacks and kidney disease, and can also contribute to dementia. Many people who suffer from hypertension are not aware that they have it as there can be no symptoms, often people only find out after suffering a heart attack or stroke.
Checking blood pressure at home is an important part of managing high blood pressure (hypertension).
Why do I need to monitor my blood pressure at home?
Monitoring your blood pressure at home can:
Help with early diagnosis.
Self-monitoring can help your health care provider diagnose high blood pressure earlier than if you have only occasional blood pressure readings in a medical office. Home monitoring is especially important for people with elevated blood pressure or another condition that could contribute to high blood pressure, such as diabetes or kidney problems.
Help track your treatment.
The only way to know whether your lifestyle changes or medications are working is to check your blood pressure regularly. Monitoring blood pressure changes at home can help you and your care provider make decisions about treatment, such as adjusting dosages or changing medications.
Encourage better control.
Self-monitoring can give you a stronger sense of control over your health. Self-monitoring might help you feel more motivated to control your blood pressure with improved diet, physical activity and proper medication use.
Cut your health care costs.
Self-monitoring might help cut down on medical visits.
