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Measuring at home

Home readings are only useful if they’re taken the same careful way each time. Here’s how the NHS and NICE say to do it.

Before you start

The NHS says to try to:

  • sit on an upright chair with a back
  • place your feet flat on the floor
  • rest your arm on a table and relax your hand and arm
  • wear something with short sleeves so the cuff does not go over clothes
  • relax, breathe normally and do not talk during the test
  • take another reading a few minutes after your first reading to check it’s accurate

NICE adds that readings should be taken somewhere relaxed and not too hot or cold, sitting quietly with your arm stretched out and supported, using the right cuff size for your arm.

Taking readings to check for high blood pressure

When home readings are used to diagnose high blood pressure, NICE recommends:

  1. Each time, take 2 readings in a row, at least 1 minute apart, while sitting down.
  2. Do this twice a day, ideally in the morning and the evening.
  3. Carry on for at least 4 days, ideally 7.
  4. Throw away the first day’s readings.
  5. Work out the average of all the readings that are left.

The NHS puts it simply: take your blood pressure, note the numbers, wait 1 minute, then do it again, once in the morning and once in the evening. Your doctor or nurse will tell you how many days to do this.

Let the app do the maths

Our 7-day home check walks you through this schedule, drops the first day and works out your average for you, ready to show your GP.

Which arm?

At your first assessment, a health professional should measure both arms. If they differ by more than 15 mmHg on repeat checks, the arm with the higher reading should be used from then on. Ask your GP or nurse which arm to use.

Irregular heartbeat

Automatic monitors may not be accurate if your pulse is irregular, for example with atrial fibrillation. In that case NICE says blood pressure should be measured manually. If you know your pulse is irregular, talk to your GP about home readings.

Choosing a monitor

NICE says blood pressure devices should be properly validated, maintained and recalibrated as the manufacturer recommends. It points to the British and Irish Hypertension Society’s list of validated devices. That list is run by a professional society rather than the government.

Tell your GP

“If you regularly use a home blood pressure monitor you should tell your GP practice.”

Checked against NHS and NICE guidance on . See all official sources.