If you have been directed to this website page or you have concerns about your blood pressure, please use the home blood pressure diary provided below. Once the diary is completed, please either email the completed form to [email protected] or hand it in to reception at either site. If you are unable to print or download the form below you can also access this form the reception desk at either surgery. Please see below some useful information regarding taking your blood pressure at home.
BEFORE USING THE BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR
- Avoid things that can raise your blood pressure in the short term. Do not measure your blood pressure within half an hour of eating, smoking, drinking caffeinated drinks such as coffee, or exercising. You should also avoid measuring your blood pressure when you need to use the toilet.
- Always measure your blood pressure in the same arm. You should use the arm which your doctor or nurse uses when they take your blood pressure.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes. Avoid wearing tight or thick clothing, as this could affect the fit of the cuff around your arm and the reading.
- Rest for five minutes before you take your reading. Sit down somewhere quiet, ideally at a desk or table.
- Make sure your arm is supported and at the same level as your heart. Position yourself so that your arm is resting on a surface and is at the same height as your heart. Keep your arm and hand relaxed, not tensed and feet flat on the floor.
- Make sure you are relaxed and comfortable.
- Write down the numbers on your blood pressure diary.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU MEASURE YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE?
- When and how often you take your readings will depend on your blood pressure. Speak to your doctor or nurse about what's is suitable for you.
WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE?
Measure your blood pressure at home
- Irregular pulse detected: Contact your GP surgery for an appointment.
- BP is normal if your reading is less than 135/85 and you are under 80 years old - Your blood pressure is well controlled. Send readings again in 6months time.
- BP is normal if your reading is less than 145/85 and you are over 80 years old - Your blood pressure is well controlled. Send readings again in 6months time.
- BP is raised if your reading is more than 135/85 and you are under 80 years old - Your GP surgery will contact you to book a follow up appointment. Submit monthly readings until BP is controlled.
- BP is raised if your reading is more than 145/85 and you are over 80 years old - Your GP surgery will contact you to book a follow up appointment. Submit monthly readings until BP is controlled.
- Consecutive readings more than 170/115 - Contact your GP surgery for an urgent same day appointment, or call 111 out of hours.
Please visit NHS website for more information about home blood pressure monitoring