When to Measure Blood Pressure?

Measuring blood pressure at home throughout the day and recording the information helps you understand what activities cause your blood pressure to rise and fall. A record of this information assists doctors with your treatment, letting them know if medication and lifestyle changes are working. You and your doctor can work together to create a plan to manage your condition.

Check in Morning

• Measure your blood pressure an hour after waking up. A Mayo Clinic staff writer says to wait an hour because blood pressure is higher right after you wake up. An empty bladder decreases readings. Don't eat, drink caffeine, smoke or consume alcohol 30 minutes before getting a blood pressure reading. Sit with your back against a chair for three to five minutes with your left arm relaxed on a flat surface at heart level. Uncross legs and ankles. Take a blood pressure reading before your morning workout routine.

Recheck in Evening

• Evening blood pressure measurements should be lower than the morning readings. You know if the medication prescribed by doctors is working or if readjustments need to be made. Evening measurements help you see how your body is handling the days stress. Follow the same strictures as in the morning, avoiding food, caffeine, smoke and alcohol 30 minutes before measuring blood pressure. Measure blood pressure before an afternoon workout routine. Write down your numbers in a journal to bring to the doctor.

Measure before Doctor

• Measuring blood pressure before a doctor's visit tracks whether you suffer from white-coat hypertension. White-coat hypertension is the condition when your blood pressure rises when the doctor checks it and your numbers are lower at home. This condition occurs because of nervousness or if you are in a hurry getting to the doctor. Documenting your at-home numbers is tangible evidence for doctors.

Feel Symptoms

• Check blood pressure if you feel symptoms such as numb limbs and face, severe headaches, chest pains, disorientation and confusion. These symptoms may indicate that your blood pressure is higher than normal and you need prompt medical attention. Contact your doctor's office if these symptoms appear during the day or go to the emergency room or urgent care after hours. You want to make sure you are not suffering from a stroke or heart attack.