The Right Way to Check Your Blood Pressure at Home | A Doctor Explains

[@enoch1680]

Your cuff should be back toward your shoulder about an inch from where you have it and it needs to be rotated so that the tube is pointing toward your palm, as per instructions on the BP machine. The tube is serving the purpose of air pump as well as stethoscope. So the place where the tube leaves the cuff needs to be over your Brachial artery. I suspect that having the tube straighter is also helpful.

[@justinesimone5343]

Thank you. Good advice. Nurses in Drs office need to watch this. They take BP when we just ran down the hallway to a chair in Drs office. We're not even sitting in right position. Arm is lower than my heart, feet not flat on floor. If I question it, response? "no it doesn't matter!"

[@thecookingdoc]

Well said! So true. Thank you.

[@deborahlearman6009]

I stop the nurse…I say…I just walked down all these corridors…I do not want you checking my b/p till I have a few minutes to settle down…and…don’t ask me any Q’s cause I don’t talk when my b/p is being recorded and…please, do NOT pump it up till I’m in a panic! I tell them my reg bp #’s and that I’ll jerk the cuff off! My normal b/p reading is 104/60ish . I tell her I do NOT want a false b/p wrote down in my medical records because she won’t let me calm down! They usually take it twice since they don’t believe the low numbers.

[@estelledean6563]

They should also stop asking questions whilst taking bp, they want the job done and you want to be ok.

[@nassermj7671]

1st thing in the morn prior to coffee, food etc. my drill.

[@john-bv9ni]

You are right they are either ignorent wicked or greedy. I am at st John's Bangalore for the past 16 days trying to get my pressure down.Hundrefs roaming around for the same purpose its a money making racket. We have to work so hard to earn 500 to 600/ Rs but they take it for strapping our hand every 2nd day these shameless people. My Dr turned the machine from my view saying you must not see it. He would not show the reading on the monitor to my nurse n wife. When I take my pressure outside its lower and inside is higher. This clip gives us the correct reason. Only deep breathing brings my pressure down now ill take some MAGNESIUM thernate sleep will improve and it'll dilate arteries. Going back to Kolkata for surgery. John

[@carmeneckmann8681]

Thank-You for being calm and friendly. Makes a difference. I know I get scared that I'm going to get bad news. One time I was told I had cancer and the tests hadn't even come back yet. It was a very hard time in my life. No one should be told they have cancer unless they have the tests to prove it.

[@GM23XO]

My nurse took my BP with a thin sweater on & was 146/81 then 126/81…. I ended up purchasing my own monitor because I am pregnant & this monitor will be a life saver 🙏 Never had BP issues

[@HiloBoiz808]

Chronic high BP entire adult life, I'm 66 male.Ate a strict vegan diet for over 5 years, never lowered my BP one notch.I am not a doctor guy so never pursued a medical solution.I got a reading of 180/90 at the firehouse which prompted me to find a solution.Had been several years since I ate vegan.Several months ago I started a carnivore diet, 6 weeks into it i had a near normal BP reading,130/78.Now almost a year of eating meat,fish,eggs,butter and lots of salt I get consistent normal BP readings.I have a machine and take my BP often.

[@jeffchandler7662]

I found when visiting the docs is to breath in slowly thro your nose for 4 seconds and exhale that air out of your mouth for 8 seconds Works for me every time !! It’s calming

[@augustinemerchant2266]

8

[@garydixon9742]

No that is yoga breath don’t do that while getting blood pressure continuously in slowly out slowly fill your belly not your lungs a good walk almost every day with good foods don’t over eat stop eating after 7 pm remember all fruit turns to sugar after that roughly just say if I over eat I will or might have a heart attack everything in moderation

[@sparra3819]

@@garydixon9742 I need to learn more about the after 7 fruit turns to sugar, but you're on point.

[@MegaBikie]

@@garydixon9742 I tried several times but can't make sense out of that sentence.

[@rodshelley1170]

I picked up one of those Omron monitors - very similar to the one you're using. My FNP told me during my last checkup that my BP was low, and I had an irregular heartbeat. I've seen a Cardiologist and showed him the readings I've kept track of since getting that monitor. He said the readings all looked good even with the occasional irregularity. He did say if I felt any symptoms as you described to get to the nearest ER. So far, so good (I'm 74).

[@carriecastagnino9596]

Thank you so much for this video. I am a nurse in a heart failure clinic. When we get new patients who are newly diagnosed with heart failure, we give them a kit that includes a BP monitor. I always teach them how to use the monitor and have them teach back. This is a great reference tool for them if they forget how to use the monitor.

[@fliplopez7031]

Thank you so much for explaining it the way you did. Recently I had an incident of dehydration; working as a cna an 8 hr shift and drinking no water the whole shift due to a busy night. I'm healthy and hydrated morning and usually all day otherwise. It's a second shift job that this incident occured on. I woke up the next day ;dry mouth, a little fog headed. It has happened to me before, but this would be the first time taking my blood pressure ever, when I was dehydrated. It was pretty high and I was scared. I didn't know if it was from being dehydrated or what?! Needless to say , I took my bp so many times for the next 5 days, with no good explanation on how to actually correctly and calmly to get a accurate reading. It's better 5 days later, but watching your video made so much sense and made me even more at ease. Thank you for posting and for everything you do for many humans! You're a good man ❤❤🙏🙏🙏

[@ellebelle8515]

Thank you, Doctor, for showing your higher blood pressure readings while making this video. It demonstrates what happens to many of us when we are in the doctor's office.

[@trevorforde9813]

Thanks for the tips.

[@americanmade4791]

Who'd have thunk it: doctor with white coat syndrome. Physician, heal thyself! 😝

[@DianeLaicans]

I am an former cardiac ICU RN and know how important it is to take your blood pressure properly. You did a good job and gave a lot of helpful hints but the major thing you forgot was the size of the blood pressure cuff and the placement of the blood pressure cuff. I would put a new video out so people will place the blood pressure cuff on properly. People will get an inaccurate blood pressure if you don’t have the proper size especially when there are a lot of obese people in the nation. Cardiologists would have a fit if a nurse put on the wrong size cuff and had the wrong placement because they know you will get an inaccurate blood pressure.

[@askme4it]

....I was told of a senior charge nurse that wasn't aware of the importance of cuff size, when the technician, diplomatically pointed this out and proved the monitor was working OK..... well, you can guesshow unimpressed she was !!!

[@tonylevine2716]

Yes, saw those errors also. I have muscular arms so had to get the XL cuff. Also, palms should be up with the tube running towards the middle finger. The wrist monitors are trash so use the cuff.

[@patmcbride9853]

After moving to a new house, I lost track of my BP monitor and started feeling symptoms similar to my time before being prescribed a BP drug. I found it yesterday and my BP was 170/75 and that had me worried, but this AM it was 137/74, then I urinated and it was 119/70. My symptoms seem less urgent now, but still worthy of a conversation with my physician. (I've never been sitting in a chair when they take my BP in a doctor's office.)

[@feedmyintellect]

Thank you Doctor for demonstrating the importance of being in a calm relaxing environment and relaxing for 5 minutes with the cuff on before measuring blood pressure. And for saying that, it is important to repeat that a minute later. I have confirmed white coat syndrome diagnosed by a cardiologist. It is like a subconscious anxiety. My blood pressure show up higher at the doctors office. And it is almost always higher the first time I measure it at home. It is so important to measure blood pressure when it is at its lowest natural rate and not being spiked by events, environment, or white coat syndrome. Thank you for emphasizing this and modeling it.

[@dcat266]

I joked with my doctor that there should be a KZbin video about using my blood pressure cuff at home. It's great that a doctor is doing this video. Thanks 🇨🇦👏

[@mikegan73]

In Ireland if you get a high blood pressure reading when you visit the Doctor, they give you a monitor which you have to wear for a day and night and then you return it the next morning for them to assess it and make a judgement on how they should treat you.

[@GorgieClarissa]

in america... they just offer you thoughts and prayers

[@Lalitha-jt6ge]

​@@GorgieClarissa🌿🙏👌🔔is it true Ji 🔯🌿

[@alonenomore3346]

Not in America they send u home with nothing

[@charltonheston969]

In USA they send you home with prescriptions & pills

[@80srenaissance67]

None left now,given out to all the "migrants "

[@smitajky]

By experiment I had found many of these. For example I found that the blood pressure was always up by 10 to 15 counts at the doctors compared to it being taken at the blood bank. Taken immediately after extreme exercise it was very high. I used to find that if I took three readings spaced by a few minutes that the numbers continued to fall. But with relaxing for quite a few minutes after putting the cuff on the three readings tend to be a lot more consistent. I have to assume that they are valid.

[@peetywondr3256]

First time: triple by-pass. Second time: Doctor performed open heart surgery due to a bad stint attempt that tore the artery open . . . needless to say, I watch my BP daily. At 74 years old, and riding my stationary bike 5 miles a day, I have been able to maintain a monthly average of 124/68 (records kept on a spreadsheet).

[@alanpecherer5705]

This is an important video, as to the accuracy of any home meter. I had a BP meter "left over" from my late mother, and I started using it. It read a little high, but not alarming. I went for a dental appointment one day and they came up numbers like 190/128 and they would not proceed bec that reading was too high, indeed, alarming, thermonuclear, you should go to the emerg room right now. I made a Dr. appointment to check BP issues. For the next few doc appointments, I took my home meter and compared reading with those at the doc's office. My home meter was crazy high, upper number would read about 40 points high. I don't have much choice but to throw it out.

[@steveholloway1963]

They are calibrated this way to sell more pills

[@Shane4Bass]

This is great advice! As an anxious person I have found that reading some text while checking my blood pressure is also a good distraction. Otherwise, I tend to think too much, which does not help my blood pressure readings!

[@creativequeen8371]

Yep. I hear you.

[@mechanicape]

Just love how you explain and bring up the facts and nuances that matter the most. Just last week, one of the nurses took my BP reading by putting around the cuff with my sweater on. I asked her and she said its okay. The readings were high and she did the second time and it was a bit lower but still high. She told me to even stretch my hand to point downwards. It was all mess. I came home and took the readings, and it was right and to my expectation. Wah! she should definitely practice mindfulness before doing BP on patients. Thank you, again doctor. I wish all my doctors were like you. Most of the doctors I visit somehow tend to be in a hurry and gives me a feeling that I should get out of the room. Amen.

[@jamesgough1887]

Good video. It ticks all the boxes. I was on meds for blood pressure for 25 years until I did a little research and found that losing weight combined with reducing my salt intake allowed me to go off medication. I also learned to take my own blood pressure, which is definitely the best way to do it. It is quite surprising what sitting still and breathing regularly for a minute can do to the reading.

[@thecookingdoc]

Thank you so much James and proud of all your hard work and reducing your salt intake!

[@NapkinEdStern]

Salt doesn't raise your blood pressure, as most people believe. It's sugar which raises it. Salt is an essential nutrient to survive. Sugar is the poison that causes high blood pressure and other ailments.

[@NapkinEdStern]

@@thecookingdoc Doc, salt has nothing to do with BP. Try it for yourself for about a week. Eat as much salt as you want and I guarantee it won''t affect your BP. Then try the same experiment with sugar and I guarantee you that it will raise your BP.

[@xbrizzcakez]

it took 25 years to do a little research?

[@YouLoveMrFriendly]

@@xbrizzcakez Doing "research" back then wasn't as easy as it is now. The web was very basic and limited.

[@thrivingbranch]

One thing that's always puzzled me, is, we take all these extra steps at home (sitting, calm, wait 5 minutes, arm supported on table, etc), but yet when I'm at a doctors office, they do *none* of these things-- in fact I've often had them take my blood pressure immediately after getting off the weight scale, and usually _while_ they're also taking my temperature and putting the oxygen sensor on my index finger. I used to think I had "white coat syndrome" but maybe it's because they're rushing to do everything at once? Thoughts?

[@americanmade4791]

Me too--sometimes right after walking in and up stairs. When that has yielded a BP I've had the nurse take it again, after I've sat for several minutes, even after the office visit is technically over.

[@thrivingbranch]

@@americanmade4791 It's good that they're willing to take it again. Mine don't do it again until I specifically ask for it.

[@tonylevine2716]

And with a long sleeve shirt on.

[@charltonheston969]

Doctors don't give a rats a$$ about their patients

[@johnunsicker7440]

@@tonylevine2716 If there are using their ears it should be ok. A machine not so much.

[@2-old-Forthischet]

There was a year when my heart was racing erratically off and on for no apparent reason. I went through every possible test from head to toe and multiple times. My doctor helped me out by consulting my case with her friends who were specialists. In the end, it was a hyper active thyroid causing everything. But, in this process, I found out from an EMT that eating a good meal before taking a blood pressure can give you a lower blood pressure. I tried his suggestion and shazam, he was right! Of course I'm much older now and on meds.

[@leonardfleet50]

You sure it wasn't caused by your wife?!

[@2-old-Forthischet]

@@leonardfleet50 no, I eliminated that variable later and it didn't matter. Old age sucks.

[@bigwheelsturning]

Great video. I follow pretty much everything you did. I too have "white coat syndrome, and it can spike at the doctors office. The nurse is usually in a hurry, and it makes me nervous too. A heart surgeon told me to take two garlic pills a day, one at lunch and dinner. It lowered my BP from 150's down to the 120's. Now at 78 I run from 110 to about 120 on the high end and down to the 70's on the low end. My monitor also keeps track of the average of up to 90 readings.

[@yes350yes]

I too have white coat syndrome and am on BP meds. Recently I started taking a smoothie recipe that concentrates on ED. [also 78 ] Been taking this smoothie for a couple months everyday and I noted my BP readings have changed/lowered since doing this smoothie. I take these reading usually a couple hours after taking the meds,,, the readings are now consistently at 115/65. Before taking the smoothies readings were more in the 125/80 area. So Im wondering what DR will do or say when I see him again. Hopefully at least adjust my meds.

[@ጸሎተ]

I have going the dr office because my bp is higher at Dr office, normal at home bp monitor, here is my story. after couple times going dr office the 3rd time check dr order 50 mg medication, I am not saying no , i took the medication 2 weeks, the dr told me in 2 weeks back will check see the medication do , when I go dr office nothing in change again high dr office, the dr think the 50 mg not enough order 100 mg , i took that for 1 week I can’t take it more my bp going down more then the usual , I call made appointment told the dr. I very dizzy, running the bathroom can’t control my pea ( urine) she still check in me with 100 mg medication if change my bp , still higher at dr office, when this all going on I always check my bp 3 times a day & take with me the the 2 week reding without medication was 122/74 sometimes 128/74 I bought brand new bp monitor , the dr finally accepted me , the dr told me I am white coat syndrome . & dr want’s me monitor me at the office when I check home & she order 2.5 mg bp mediation , but I didn’t take it my bp is totally fin . Sometimes dr rush given you medication, since I know my bp at home monitor is fine way I need medication Know I am drinking beets juice I made home or eat row with salad Tray beets,ginger,cucumber , carrot 🥕 blend together add water no sugar if you want sweet you can add pineapple cut blend together & drink 1 or 2 glass it works fantastic for high blood pressure . My bp high only dr office at home is always normal…I don’t need medication Hop u understand my story

[@bigwheelsturning]

@@ጸሎተ I've found that garlic pills do the trick for me. Lowered my BP by 20-30 points. I always tell my Doc that I don't need the medications. Like you, I know that they will make me worse off than not taking them.

[@bigwheelsturning]

@@owenblake90 It was down the next day once I got over the trip to town (bad traffic) and got back into my daily routine. It's been in the mid-teens since then. It also helped when I found out that my Cholesterol levels had dropped 22 points. And my LDL 30 points. I took Red Yeast Rice with plant sterolis

[@paulf4133]

@@yes350yes hello, im curious what your smoothie recipe is. my father is around your age now and his BP ranges from 135-145 systolic. ive been tasked with cooking for him everyday now, hoping that healthier food can make a change in his BP but hasnt really budged in the 3 months that ive started cooking for him. would you mind saying whats in the smoothie youve been taking? perhaps it may be something that i can incorporate into my father diet

[@somuchtruth2306]

I have white coat hypertension and a similar dynamic even affects my home readings. Namely, I become anxious in taking my FIRST reading and it is often quite high. It is typical, however, for it to come down a bit on my second reading, and more still on my third reading (each spaced a minute apart). Some experts feel we should take three readings in total, toss out the first one, and average the last two.

[@stelladonnelly2832]

Same here, I feel anxious even in the quiet at home - I take several readings and the last couple are always a lot lower.

[@Memow-pk1ng]

@@stelladonnelly2832 me too, get anxious, 2nd & third are always lower.

[@thecookingdoc]

I understand the first reading can cause a lot of anxiety in many of my patients. Even I have to take several readings as I find a way to breathe and relax. Creating a quiet space in your home and just resting and breathing can make such a difference.

[@av8rshane491]

My Omron BP785 has a setting where it does exactly that and you don’t have to move to activate it and pauses for 60 seconds between. Works great because you don’t have to move or think about anything but relaxing.

[@bbkGT3]

Glad I am not the only one…THX

[@nickywilks7928]

So helpful. My dad has heart failure and my mum has pulmonary embolisms so I take their blood pressure and oxygen levels on a regular basis...thanks so much for this video.

[@apmgold]

This video was much more informative and therefore more helpful, than I thought it would be. Thank you for the effort you put into this video, it is very much appreciated.

[@thecookingdoc]

I really appreciate that apm gold. Thank you so much.

[@acb2439]

Thanks Doctor. Friends thought I was nuts for trusting my own readings over the reading from my Doctors office and taking supplements instead of medication to keep my blood pressure normal. I'll be sharing this video for sure.

[@thecookingdoc]

Thanks so much A C B. Those readings in a doctors office can often be very different than doing it at home when you are relaxed.

[@jaycuza5826]

Which supplements?

[@acb2439]

@@jaycuza5826 Number one supplement I use is "Zazzee" Beet Root Extract capsules. L-Citrulline capsules (same brand). Dr. berg's D3 w/K2 capsules. Weaned myself off Meds. Monitor you BP with an Arm Cuff BP Monitor (Omron). I'm not a Doctor. Just telling you what I did. Loads of info here on KZbin. Watch a video from "Adam J. Story DC" about 3 BP lowering drinks. Take care.

[@davidblyth5495]

As an engineer I have two dictums: a. "You can only manage what you know!" and b. "To measure is to know!" I suffer from hypertension and am on meds, some which I take in the morning and the rest in the evening of most days. I started measuring my BP just prior to taking my meds in the evening and then again between 1 to 4 hours later. I have records of several years now. They include: minimum, median and maximum for Systolic and Diastolic. Histograms per month show the downward shirt of my BP due to the meds quite well. My physician notice my systolic at over 135 and recommended I take certain meds in the evening and the rest in the morning - eg a change to my routine. A few observations: a. BP increased after surgery but returned to the previous levels. b. After the change in meds recommended by my physician, my average BP reduced significantly to 119/60 from around 140/70 and appears consistent now. I do follow the recommendations you made eg calm and at home.

[@thecookingdoc]

You are doing great work David. I am glad to hear of all your progress and that you are finding consistency. 😀

[@jerryfarmer5989]

My BP has always been around 120/70. A few months ago it was 146/82. I been checking it every evening since and no 2 days are the same. All below the 140 but from like 62 to 73 or so. NO life changes of any kind and nothing stressful other than work.

[@georgen9755]

130/85

[@muhammadkhalidhasan6291]

Brother what is your blood pressure I want to know it because i am a 22 year old guy and from last 2 months i have been noticing that my bp have around 130 -135 and 78 to 85

[@rd6519]

The Omron blood pressure cuff actually illustrates how the cuff should be placed on the arm; the information it is right on the cuff itself. Following that illustration will give you a proper reading of your blood pressure. I find that virtually no one seems to understand how to use a blood pressure cuff properly, including the docs and nurses, etc. It is distressing! This doctor did not do it properly. 😟

[@sunnyd6019]

I noticed that also.

[@ruthtorphy2204]

I noticed this also.

[@kathyd1010]

I agree!!! How silly to do all this and the cuff isn’t on correctly!

[@evelynmuscat7061]

Met too

[@Memow-pk1ng]

There are lines insidecuff, & u have to line them up, & no wrinkles

[@IMBlakeley]

Thanks. I got my BP under control a few years back losing weight and exercising regularly but in the last year or so I've had to add medication to the mix now I am in my sixties, still good weight and daily exercise. I've noticed over time that the lowest readings are after I've worked out, come back, showered and relaxed for a bit.

[@thecookingdoc]

It is amazing the difference in readings when we are relaxed. Great job getting your bp under control IMBlakeley!

[@CandyGirl44]

My blood pressure is all over the show - from being consistently low most of my life, it's going into the upper regions due to stress. It was 168 over 88, my hubby gave me one of his BP pills, the next morning it was 100 over 55. I'm looking into natural ways to lower BP now.

[@YouLoveMrFriendly]

Get to the doctor and get a real program in place, with your own medicine.

[@boxer6796]

I am not a DR, but should never take anything that a Dr did not prescribe for you.

[@anzelac5808]

100/55 is low my meds do that and im lightheaded 🤪

[@trussmonkey5910]

I was hoping you would cover more of the correct placement of the cuff on the arm. Where is the artery? How do I align the cuff properly? Where should the tube be? The instructions that came with my blood pressure monitor were vague.

[@trishalee3198]

The red thing on the cuff should align with the middle of the forearm (that is the artery). Take your BP machine to your MD and ask for directions, or take it to the place of purchase and ask a Pharmacist to show you. It should have come with very good instructions. The tube should not be wrapped around the arm or bent but flowing freely.

[@boatman222345]

Three weeks ago a medical assistant took my blood pressure and then said to me, "Do you typically suffer from low blood pressure?" I replied that as a rule my BP tends to run a little high. "Oh." she replied and then began to continue her exam. Sensing something amiss I said, "What was my blood pressure?" She replied “55/45” Since I was still fully conscious and since my normal BP is around 130/70 I suspected a faulty reading. Later after my actual doctor completed her exam I asked her to check my BP. It was 135/70. In any other field then medicine that kind of a screwup might get a person fired. It's one thing to screwup up, quite another to just ignore a totally atypical reading and sail blithely on. If I'd been on blood pressure meds this erroneously low reading might have resulted in a completely inappropriate change in meds. Why is this kind of medical incompetence so routinely tolerated?

[@monicalem8487]

😢HOLY SMOKES... Get RID of her. Tell that doctor. Maybe you need a new doctor. Where did he find her...under a rock???

[@johnunsicker7440]

Any doctor that would change meds with just one reading at one visit is not a good doctor. Doctor should check it for themself.

[@erdalmickeyilkturk]

I think, the first job of any doctor is to relax the patients and tell them how they should perform certain tasks in detail. Thank you for doing that 😀

[@Ulbre]

I bought a cheap Chinese wrist BP monitor 3 years ago (about 10 bucks online). I was a little sceptical as to it's accuracy so I took it to the local hospital where they have a free BP test (the one you put your whole arm in) and then a minute later I checked using mine. The results were almost identical. in the three years since I have done this again maybe 4 or 5 times and the results are still almost identical. I will say that for both the hospital test and my own (when used at the hospital a minute after the hospital test), my BP was a little higher than when I tested at home....but you covered the reasons why this occurs early in your video.

[@donniet685]

Though that could indicate that the arm meter is not that accurate either. I heard the most accurate way to do it is by checking it manually - also using a stethoscope.

[@thecookingdoc]

Sounds like you got a good deal on a BP monitor. I have found that wrist monitors are not as accurate, but yours seems to do a great job. Thanks so much for watching and commenting.

[@donniet685]

@@markrothschild3659 Maybe you could try actually reading and researching instead of being an ignorant dork.

[@carlosgomes6074]

Thank you for great explanation. I decided to get myself a home blood pressure monitor yesterday. I find at the doctor's rooms my blood pressure is always high. I AM not even in a relaxed position,nor sitting in a chair. Normal sitting on the bed in doctor room and not resting my back, sometimes doctor is asking questions while taking reading with electronic type machine. Day before had blood pressure taking with gauge type monitor and blood pressure was good. That's the reason i decided to also test at home in correct position and all the necessary requirements for accurate readings.

[@Mr-hn2bp]

Stress hormones have a great effect on heart rate and thus BP. THIS IS why every BP measurement comes with a measurement of your heart rate, the number of heart beats per minute. It serves as a means of gauging how much of your BP was affected by your conditions, stress level, exercise level and psychological state, etc.

[@Xsplot]

I find that moving the cuff so that two fingers fit between the elbow joint and the cuff gives me significantly lower readings. Some tutorials recommend two fingers, others like this one state "just above the elbow". Try both and please let me know if you get a similar result than I do.

[@nickdadon]

I was a few times made to wear one of those 24 hours test, that the doctors, give you! It goes off every 30 mins, and once an hour over night, ! This test causes you to be stressed out the entire time, waiting for it to go of, so much the readings are always high... Once I bought my own machine, I found it easier to get accurate readings.... Usually before a yearly physical I take 3 readings a day , at the same time for 10 days, and print it out for my doctor....

[@Snibbo-v9v]

I used one of those 24 hour monitors and found it very relaxing, it beeps just before it inflates and sleeping with it on was not a problem

[@MrJimmy-ox7fq]

Great video. Very informative and right on target. Fortunately for me, my doctor understands that I'm all "worked up" at my office visits, in regard to my BP. Years ago, at my first visit, I bought my Omron with me and got the same readings on it as the Nurse did on their "doc on a stick". I have normal BP AFTER the office visit is over and at home. Amazing that my brain can trigger such a spike in BP just thinking about going to the Dr. You did a good job on this video. Keep up the good work and stay off of 123, 85, and 385 and your BP should be okay. Stay safe!

[@nitzacrespo2014]

Yes, thank you for your honesty sharing your slightly high blood pressure with us because that just shows that you are not trying to deceive us with fake info. From my experience, stress really plays a big part in our BP readings . God's blessings.

[@moc5541]

Indeed. I have found that I have to take the reading three times, and the numbers decline with each repetition... often by 10 mm (systolic). My theory is that the cuff strangling my upper arm is interpreted by my brain as a real threat, and takes some getting used to.

[@dougroberts6606]

I have 2 Omron BP monitors: one old, one new. They give nearly identical results, so that confirms their accuracy, I think. I put one on the left, one on the right, and measure simultaneously. On average, my right arm shows slightly lower pressure than the left. I can swap the two monitors, and I get the same results, confirming again the accuracy of the monitors. I am careful to place the cuffs correctly. Thanks Doc, I need to sit at a table, as you demonstrated.

[@thecookingdoc]

Thanks so much for the comment Doug and you definitely have a great system down.

[@comlbbeau]

As others have mentioned, I, too, encounter "white coat syndrome" when at the doctor's office and generally exhibit higher than normal initial readings. I take my blood pressure at home occasionally, and I take a picture with my phone of the blood pressure and pulse screens, and the properties associated with the photos show the date and time they were taken. The doctor doesn't have to rely merely on my word that I don't have high blood pressure.

[@TheRealWindlePoons]

I'm in the UK. My BP is so high when I visit my health centre that they didn't believe my home readings. I had to take my BP monitor in to prove it measured the same as theirs. I do 5 minutes mindfulness meditation before I take a home reading.

[@michaelsanders6518]

Thank you for this video. Just purchased a blood pressure checker for home. I've been fighting high blood pressure my entire life and take a few meds for it. I saw high readings today and of course, I panicked, but will relax and get in touch with my doctor. This runs in my family unfortunately.

[@thecookingdoc]

I'm sorry you have struggled with that for so long but glad I could at least be of a little help :)

[@ivysuz]

Great video. Very clear and you get right to it. I also love that you shared your actual readings. You're human! Thank you

[@thecookingdoc]

😆😆Thanks so much Suzanne! I really appreciate that- one human to another human. 🤣

[@sixshooter4570]

You're suppose to have that tube aligned with your vein when it's on your left arm and your palm should be facing up according to that Omron blood pressure monitors manual. You can also use your right arm but the tube is then aligned with the inner part of your arm. I just purchased the Omron series 10 today and it uses a Bluetooth application which is really nice. All other information was correct and I enjoyed the video, thanks for your time and effort.

[@tamaraspillis612]

Thanks doc for not manipulating the numbers for the video. Just wonderful for a reality ck😃

[@thecookingdoc]

Thanks so much Tamara. I try to be as real as possible. 😀

[@adriankap2978]

I have a wrist cuff and never really sure how accurate it is so I've ordered the one you have in the video. One thing is, I started taking Bragg ACV capsules and within a few days I got readings about 20 to 30 points lower. Don't have any idea if that's what did it but my readings were anywhere between 149/67 to 189/84. I got a reading of 103 then the next AM 129. I may have just measured at the perfect time of day. This a great video and you make it very easy and not intimidating at all for anyone to be able to do it. Thank You

[@tonylevine2716]

Wrist monitors are trash!!

[@BestNana]

Can you possibly do another video that shows the accurate placement of the arm cuff, especially where the tube enters the cuff and how it should place on your arm? That seems to make quite a bit of difference. Thank you and I appreciate your videos.

[@jeta1f35]

I would also appreciate that information. I have heard different opinions on the position of the cuff and tube, I would really appreciate your opinion. Many thanks.

[@williamwilson6499]

Go to 2:41

[@josephbrosk4384]

Yours is a great question! The instructions for my electronic BP machine says the tube should be in line with the pinky finger. I have no idea if that makes a difference, or if it is just for consistency, so I'm taking my BP the same way every time.

[@farside51]

I also use the same bp machine. It has an arrow on the cuff so when I put it on it’s pointing the the bend of my arm and about 1 inch above the bend. I take it doing the same set up as you and calmly look out my patio doors watching the active bird feeder in the yard. I get great readings. I also switched taking my bp med from am to late afternoon , suggested by my cardiologist,and it worked great.

[@Ulbre]

The main thing is that it is at the same level as your heart. If using wrist/forearm BP monitors, make sure you elevate it to the same level as your heart.

[@dave2059]

I have an Omrom that has a feature that will take three readings with a two minute pause between each and then it averages the three readings and shows the average. I need to make sure I don't relax anymore than I do because my average blood pressure across many months is 95/69. I'm much closer to having blood pressure too low than having blood pressure too high. Still I like the video. It confirms that I do follow the correct process for taking my BP and I even use the same brand of equipment the Doc does.

[@paradiseview]

My blood pressure is normal. I watched a video by a doctor who mentioned that drinking lemon juice and eating cheddar cheese before or during a meal can help lower blood pressure. Surprisingly, after trying this, my blood pressure dropped from a range of 128 to 138/88 to 98/70. It was unbelievable! I am following a keto diet, so I added dates, butter, and coffee to my meals after seeing this improvement. I also started to have pizza occasionally.

[@thecookingdoc]

Great job Paradise View. You have made some great changes. I definitely understand sneaking pizza in occasionally.

[@olusolaoyadina5187]

Really? I have drank lemon/ lime water every morning for more than 24 years, lemon is my own sweetener, just make my water better which is the only drink I take; ACV I introduced about 8 years ago and I add that to my water sometime during the day. My BP has never exceeded 118/75 and about 9 points below at all times. I have always checked my BP since '96 just because of family history. I wonder if my citrus intake has a lot to do with my readings.

[@josephquadros5290]

Excellent instructional video, but as a Family Physician, I would include: 1. Need to verify accuracy of the machine (all are made in China), 2. Fresh batteries are essential (BP readings trend upward as batteries fail), 3. Both position of microphone over the brachial artery AND cuff size are important (I tell patients the cuff should go at least 1 1/14 times around the arm so that those with big guns get the right size cuff). Otherwise your video was spot on and very informative as well as critical for patients to learn the right way to check BP. Thanks!

[@thecookingdoc]

Thanks so much Joseph and great tips. Always hard to pack everything in a video. Appreciate your comment!

[@RoverT65536]

@@thecookingdoc , ​it looks like you don’t have the microphone at the right place.

[@jcolumbiap]

I have been doing blood pressure testing at home for at least 20 years. I use a Omron tester. The day after a long run it runs around 96/ 68. I take it three times. My heart rate is usually higher the day after a long run. At the doctors office it has been 180/ 80 and it takes about three days to go back to normal.

[@thecookingdoc]

Home readings are very helpful to compare and yes I agree - when I go for a long run it can definitely do the same.

[@jcolumbiap]

@@thecookingdoc Might show a good reason to do a long warmup before a race. Expand the cardio vascular system first, then head for the start line.

[@eriknystrom5839]

Interesting. I’m a 76 yo male. My BP was perfect (according to my doctor, I don’t remember the numbers) until 3 years ago when it suddenly stared to increase to 150/80. No big concerns, but I was told to watch it more regular and change my diet (less salt and sweets, more vegetables etc. After a urine bladder infection a few weeks ago my BP was 169/94. I was called for a recheck 3 weeks later and it was still very high 165/ 85. After that visit I bought an Omron, and now I’m measuring 3 times daily and trying to figure out what is influencing the valves. The values are changing drastically; sometimes as low as 124/73 and sometimes 154/87. One interesting observation: resting ( doing nothing, just watching TV) for a few hours before the measurements actually does INCREASE my BP and DECREASES my heart rate down to 50. My normal values are around 60 beats/min. When I take a brisk walk in the morning (6 - 8 km), have my lunch and then measure, the values are OK : approximately 130/ 75 /heart rate 60. I have another check in 10 days, I will definitely take a walk in the morning that day and bring a list of my home measurements + eating/drinking details + physical activities for 10 days back!!

[@jcolumbiap]

I really would not put a lot of importance on blood pressure readings. When you get your own blood pressure monitor you will notice it changes a lot. With the stress of being at a place where they tell you that you are dying your blood pressure goes up!

[@eriknystrom5839]

@@jcolumbiap Yes, I have the same experience. After physical activity and resting for 30 min, my BP is now OK: 120-125 / 70-80 , sometimes as low as 105/ 65. I do take 250 mg Magnesium and 100 ml root-beat juice every morning.

[@gunlokman]

A great video doctor - thank you. However, speaking as a professional hydraulic engineer I have grave misgivings about the common method of checking BP. It's well known in engineering that if one effectively squashes a pipe then the pressure of the liquid within that pipe will rise - provided the pump is capable. This is precisely what happens when blood-pressure is assessed in this way. So, a high blood pressure measured like this says more about the condition of the heart than the state of the blood-vessel.

[@lawrenceweber2010]

My OMRON always reads up to 10 points higher at home than when BP taken in Dr office. They often get concerned as my BP can be less then 100/50 and my pulse in low 40's and so I get questioned about feeling faint etc. , but I feel fine. Guidelines are just that, guidelines. Everyone is different and BP is just one of many factors to consider.

[@CrimsonRaven51]

I’m a bodybuilder with an 18 inch bicep. The commercial blood pressure kit with a cuff comes in only one size and it’s too small. I use a wrist cuff. It was guaged at the doctors office and found to be accurate. I am 72 and take my blood pressure at about 3 PM. For the past month my blood pressure has come down to an ideal level.

[@DsnyLuv]

Thank you; this is great. Would love more about HBP. Thank you for the no panic. A question, isn’t the cuff cord supposed to be aligned with the artery in the arm?

[@shirleyac12]

Thanks. I have white coat syndrome. At home and on my fit bit at work my BP is normal . At the docs it’s much higher and not consistent as it depends why I’m there . Last time I had ECG, and bloods were to be taken . First attempt at blood draw was not working , other arm worked . Lastly , Bp the bottom reading was so high up it was clearly an error , 95! She did it once! The top was less than the docs so very normal in face 133. Good after the needles ! At home 122/ 72 to 130/80. Tonight I followed your advice and 130/72 129/69 111/73 , just shows when you’re not being used like a pin cushion or being moaned at about cholesterol yet again ( when it’s ok really not particularly high ) calm at home it’s a truer relaxed reading .

[@jackkauer7022]

Great video, surprised to realize how getting your BP in doctors office can be inaccurate. Learned alot about the correct way to take blood pressure

[@thecookingdoc]

Thanks so much Jack for watching and commenting. Appreciate this!

[@johnjohnohanasian2544]

Thank you so much for this. I have a problem with being anxious. And if I don't like my readings, I'll take them literally dozens of times a day. Today was particularly rough. My readings were in the 150s, and diastolic low hundreds 1 of them was 112.

[@craigmelissa12]

Thanks so much for helping us. I am new to measuring BP and you really explained it so well and also was reassuring if your numbers are high. All the best.

[@xxtoptigerxx8758]

I appreciate this found out I've lived with high BP for a long time now. Right before my first job too..

[@donnybrook8051]

Appreciate the video, but shouldn't that cord run down inside of your arm, where the artery runs along?

[@lindapawson3445]

I wish my doctor followed your blood pressure method. She just rushes to take it. Doctor appointments where I go are only supposed to be 10 minutes so she just wants to get the blood pressure done fast. Your information was very helpful.

[@DivergentMoon]

Using an upper arm monitor hurts me. So I use a wrist monitor, which also records each reading and can feed them back, as well as a several-day average. I take it to the doctor's office so they can go through the numbers. And I take my BP while there with my cuff to make sure it is accurate.

[@thepeddler9226]

I found an extra large band; maybe that's what you needed too. Was yours small? Edit: small/regular

[@j.w.grayson6937]

I just received a BP Monitor from the VA thanks to my agent orange exposure in Vietnam. I appreciate the detailed explanation on how to monitor.

[@tekannon7803]

How tight should the band be around the upper arm? Should it be barely noticeable or a bit tight? I tried it and I think it was too tight because when the device started my upper arm actually was in pain.

[@lindao7887]

The nurses all say it has to be tight and cause excrutiating pain - puts me in tears every time.

[@lindao7887]

The nurses all say it has to be tight and cause excrutiating pain - puts me in tears every time.

[@thecookingdoc]

You want it to be snug, definitely not so tight it causes any sort of pain.

[@robbieb2011]

I have an awesome doc. Since I'm white coat syndrome'ish. He tells me to take my BP at home an hour before my doctors appt ans for me to bring in the BP monitor. He then, not the nurse, takes my bp clinically and then watches me take my bp with my home monitor right after. This gives me feedback on how accurate my monitor is and then he uses that to calibrate my reading at home 1 hr before my appt to his reading to determine if it was white coat. I'm on BP meds and he wants to make certain he has me dialed in properly with my dosage

[@Chesterdkat377]

Doc, thank you so much for this video. You’ve given me answers to questions I’ve had for some time. And thank you for the relief from your wisdom.

[@thecookingdoc]

Thank you so much Spinningprop for watching and commenting. You made my day!

[@divergentmind2023]

I tried your way and it went down. Thank you 🙏

[@petereshaw]

My blood pressure has dropped significantly since loosing significant weight by drinking more water and natural lemon juice with apple cider vinegar fairly regularly, reducing portion sizes and avoiding processed and junk food.

[@bobbear4437]

Your spoke the truth, the omly way to loose weight is to lower calories, stop eating fast food junk, processed, or precooked frozen foods, and drink enogh water each day to stay hydrated! Add some exercise and some fiber to your diet, and your golden!

[@hennakhakwany7823]

And avoiding negativity

[@beedevil11]

Blueberries and strawberries was the magical elixir for lowering my BP.

[@thecookingdoc]

Great work Peter. I know those changes can be tough to make. Congrats and thank you for commenting.

[@roberthumphrey1304]

Listen to your body. If you are feeling strange, light headed, unstable, vision stability or any other unusual symptoms check your bp. I've had bp drops of 30 points from normal during these episodes. Sitting in a chair for 10 to 15 minutes bp will return to normal. I've also had episodes of higher bp. Dr's have used this information to adjust or change my medication. Bp taken in the Dr's office is one minute of time out of 6 months. I've have good luck with wrist devices the last 13 years since bypass surgery.

[@alistairshanks5099]

I was told the tube of the machine has to be in line with the inside of your arm just above the inside of your elbow.?

[@casarabbit8696]

Hey Doc, thank you for this informative content. I have a question, does it matter if I use my left arm or right arm when checking my BP? They both give different numbers.

[@thecookingdoc]

It's best to take your blood pressure from your left arm if you are right-handed Casa.

[@hellofromrob]

@@thecookingdoc I’m a lefty but normally test my left arm. Should I switch? Also, I smiled at the direction to take our BP free from all the typical daily noises and stressors to provide a reading that is most correct. How many of us actually experience that type of serene environment routinely in our day? Hmmm…maybe THAT is what our Physicians should be prescribing!, 👍🏻😎

[@carlw]

Tx. Dr. I've been told or experienced these variations. Are they correct?: 1) sleeves don't change the result 2) the pressure hose has to be over top your inner elbow where the artery is closest 3) the cuff has to be centered over your inner elbow. Thanks

[@bretholtzman1524]

Your not wearing the cuff correctly, the air tube runs down the middle of your arm, the diagram is on the cuff sir.

[@themotion8229]

And he needs palm up

[@melissaabraham8826]

This was so useful thank you I’m struggling with my blood pressure lately everything I was doing was wrong now I’ll give a try now you’ve explained how to do it at home thank you much

[@LoboBlack187]

In Europe and Japan anything above 140/90 is considered high blood, 120/80 is not.

[@MultiKtm300]

Well, how do they sell blood pressure medicine?

[@maplenook]

Pharma wants us all medicated, F them

[@gladiator22666]

Great video Doc , as soon as you hit the button on your monitor I felt the white coat syndrome kick in ! The monitor was on your arm lol . I thought it would be something I would grow out of but still stuck with it at 57 years old .

[@Marshadow69]

The second reading is often higher with me - because I am becoming more invested in the result

[@thecookingdoc]

I get it Paul. You see that is how it worked for me as well in the video.

[@AlanBoddy-fl2qp]

I ve used one for years and was always told to put the tube along the main arm artery(Brachial) not to the side.Its in the booklet that comes with it ./At 86 110/75/65😊

[@send2gl]

My Blood Pressure usually drops after exercise. Doctor explained this can be normal as exercise expands the blood vessels so the dilation reduces pressure.

[@debbiecarpenter9679]

Over the last 3 months I have been on Keto and intermittent fasting.My weight was 295 lbs and blood pressure was 150/85 ish My weight has dropped about 40 lbs and my blood pressure which I check AM and Pm before meds and sleep.I take Lorsartan and amlodipine .My blood pressure has dropped dramatically .This morning my BP was 104/53 HR 57. I'm concerned that my blood pressure is getting to low and maybe my meds should be adjusted .My Doctor seems unconcerned and says come in an have your blood pressure checked at the office.My problem,it's always higher in the office...I logged 14 days of readings and faxed it to him but no answer...Am I concerned over nothing ??

[@kitsiewr]

No, it sounds like you have fixed the problem naturally, but they dare not question the need to keep EVERYONE on lifetime pharma. Your new readings sound very low, and they will NEVER discuss all these drugs' side effects. But good luck finding a doctor who will ever question your 'need' for meds.

[@Jacobmelrose26]

This explains why every time I go to the doctor, my BP is high when the nurse checks it and fine when my doctor checks it 10 to 15 minutes later. Unfortunately they only record the initial reading on my medical chart so every doctor I visit thinks I have high blood pressure.

[@mayiles6082]

My instructions on cuff says to have tube in line with little finger and arm at heart level.

[@ktnsteve]

I was s sensitive to SEEING the sphygmomanometer caused my BP to increase. It was very painful to use. I would take it 3 or 4 times for it to finally leveled off. I bought a wrist one - it also takes 3 tries, but it does not cause pain so the levels are much more reasonable. 🤷🏼‍♀️ I have started practicing relaxation techniques.

[@thecookingdoc]

Great job ktnsteve

[@rolo1955]

I'm sure you've heard this question before in your career, but why do the readings in both arms differ? For example, the right arm gives you a reading within the parameters, and the left arm will show it higher?

[@detectiveh7399]

I wondered this too. But I'm the opposite, my left arm gives much lower readings than right arm.

[@joycearyee3266]

Thank you so much for the information. I am glad to hear this. You made simple to understand.

[@davepeterschmidt5818]

Disagree on the accuracy of forearm cuffs. I have a wrist cuff. For the first month I didn't quite trust it, so I checked its readings against my upper arm cuff model. They were consistently very close. Eventually I stopped using the upper arm cuff out of convenience. The wrist cuff is so much easier to use, which makes a big difference in my willingness to sit down and take a reading occasionally.

[@ellapresley8634]

Thank you Doctor, I was checking my BP along with you and it was "pretty good"!!

[@dogloverjb6873]

probably why blood pressures are high in DR offices... we don't sit there for 5 minutes and calm ourselves and we are usually nervous.

[@stevedupree525]

Yes. Often my feet are off the floor and I’m 6-3. Plus I have lifted weights for 40+ years and my arms are bigger than most. I have had several nurses try to use a small cuff and I have to tell them to use the right size.

[@carlam329]

The tube is supposed to be on the inside of the elbow.

[@7style0]

Thank you, for sharing this information and giving your time to care about others. May many blessings always come your way.

[@redrockcrf4663]

Stress can drive your BP even when you don't know it. I had laproscopic surgery late last year, and during the admission - in which I felt very calm - my BP was way higher than it has ever been.... So I was really nervous, but didn't know it.

[@thecookingdoc]

Yes it can Redrock absolutely. I have learned to use meditation at home to reduce my stress levels and it has helped me a lot!

[@leonardfleet50]

Also ensure you use a correct cuff size to suit the diameter of your arm, and don't wrap the cuff around to loose, or too tight. You should be able to push in 2 fingers snuggly (not loosely) after the cuff has been wrapped around.

[@TellAll1001]

I was told that you have to wait at least 10 minutes between each blood pressure reading, otherwise the second reading could be falsely low.