How to Check Your Blood Pressure at Home for Heart Health Month

Learning how to check your blood pressure at home helps you understand your numbers, track changes over time, and stay engaged in your heart health. It is one of the most effective habits to build during Heart Health Month.

Why Accuracy Matters.

Accurate readings depend on using a clinically validated device, selecting the right cuff size, and following consistent positioning every time. Many clinics also rely on automated monitors because they support reliable results when used correctly.

Use a clinically validated blood pressure monitor

Choose a device that has been independently validated and appears on ValidateBP.org. This ensures the monitor has been tested using accepted standards and aligns with American Heart Association guidance.

Choose the Right Cuff Size

Selecting the correct cuff size is essential for accuracy.
• Measure your upper arm at the midpoint between your shoulder and elbow.
• Compare the measurement to the manufacturer’s sizing chart.
Many Canadian pharmacies can help you choose the right cuff size for your home blood pressure monitor.

Understand What Influences Your Readings

Blood pressure naturally changes throughout the day. Readings can be affected by:
• Time of day
• Exercise, caffeine, alcohol, or smoking
• Stress or tension
• Temperature and other environmental conditions
Avoid these factors for thirty minutes before you measure and relax quietly for five to ten minutes.

How to Take a Proper Measurement

For upper arm monitors: 

  • Sit with feet flat and back supported.
  • Wrap the cuff one half inch above the elbow.
  • Align the artery mark with the brachial artery.
  • Rest your arm on a table at heart level.
  • Stay still and silent during the reading.

For wrist monitors: 

  • Position the cuff at the wrist crease.
  • Hold your wrist at heart level.
  • Begin measurement and remain still.
check your blood pressure at home

Tips for Better Tracking

  • Measure in the morning and evening. 
  • Take two or three readings and average them. 
  • Track trends in a notebook or the A&D Heart Track App. 

Why It Matters in the United States

Nearly half of adults in the United States have hypertension. Home monitoring helps detect concerns early, supports treatment decisions, and provides consistent information for long-term heart health.


Heart Health Month Reminder

Heart Health Month is an ideal time to strengthen new habits. Home monitoring, a heart healthy eating pattern such as the DASH Diet, regular physical activity, and stress management all support better cardiovascular health