Taking Your Normal Blood Pressure Readings Correctly

Normal blood pressure readings for an adult is between 120/80 mm Hg and 139/89 mm Hg. If your numbers are higher than these it might indicate high blood pressure, and doctors usually want to take action when your blood pressure readings are over 140/90 mm Hg.

But, did you know that at birth your blood pressure is around 90/60 mm Hg or it might even be lower. As you grow older it gradually rises.

To make sure you are maintaining a normal blood pressure readings you must have your blood pressure measured.

With the information I have listed below you can determine whether your numbers are normal or high. And, always record your measurements on a blood pressure chart so your doctor can view them.

Accurate Reading

To get an accurate reading follow these simple rules:

• Do not smoke, drink alcohol or coffee within fifteen minutes of you taking a blood pressure measurement.


• Blood pressure readings should be taken in a sitting position with your back and arm supported.


• Your supported elbow should be at about the level of your heart.


• Keep your legs from dangling.


• Do not speak during the measurement.

Steps To Avoid An Inaccurate Reading

An inaccurate reading can mean the difference between a lifetime of taking pills and the avoidance of taking medications. So you want to avoid the many problems that may lead to the wrong reading.

• Make sure your blood pressure monitor or stethoscope is not faulty.


• Relying on memory often leads to an inaccurate charting of the numbers. So if your are taking your own measurements or someone else is, make sure the person who measures the blood pressure write the numbers down immediately.


• The blood pressure cuff should be at your heart level. If the cuff is above your heart level the reading may be low, and if the cuff is below your heart level the reading may be inaccurately high.


• If you have a large, muscular arm you should use a blood pressure gauge with a cuff that's large enough to accommodate your arm.

Taking Your Blood Pressure At Home

It is said that people who monitor their own blood pressure at home are more likely to have normal blood pressure readings because they stay on a regimen for lowering or maintaining their blood pressure.

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