9 Best Blood Pressure Monitors, Researched and Tested in 2025

We Researched and Tested Blood Pressure Monitors — These Are the 9 We Recommend for Monitoring Your Heart Health

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Blood pressure monitors are essential for those looking to maintain their heart health, whether because of chronic conditions like hypertension or simply as part of a proactive wellness routine. The right monitor provides accurate, real-time data that enables you to track your health trends and share crucial information with your doctors.

"There are so many benefits to checking one’s blood pressure at home," says Erica Spatz, MD, an associate professor of cardiology and epidemiology at Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. Dr. Spatz explains that blood pressure readings taken at home are a more accurate representation of your true blood pressure because they allow you to get an average over the course of a few weeks as opposed to just one measurement in a doctor’s office.

"They are very helpful to trend blood pressure levels and help separate 'white coat hypertension,' which is when blood pressure is elevated in a doctor’s office but not at home,” says Jonathan Fialkow, MD, a cardiologist and the chief of cardiology at Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute in Florida. Studies show that up to 50 percent of people may have white coat hypertension, and home monitoring can help identify this.

When choosing the right blood pressure monitor, it’s important to consider your personal needs and preferences. Factors like ease of use, display clarity, memory, connectivity options, and clearance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (meaning the FDA has deemed them safe and effective) will likely play a role in your decision. To help you find the best options, we spoke with five experts, including cardiologists and a cardiac electrophysiologist. They shared their recommendations and insights on the best blood pressure monitors. Here are the products we recommend.

When to Consult Your Doctor

You should schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider if you notice consistently elevated blood pressure readings, typically at or above 130/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). It’s also important to consult your doctor if you have underlying health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or a history of heart disease, as high blood pressure can further increase your risk.

The American Heart Association (AHA) advises calling 911 immediately if you experience a hypertensive crisis, which is characterized by a sudden, severe spike in blood pressure with readings of 180/120 mmHg or higher. Other symptoms to watch for include chest pain, trouble breathing, back pain, severe headache, numbness or weakness, and vision changes. A hypertensive crisis can lead to serious complications such as stroke or heart attack if not treated promptly.

Conversely, low blood pressure (hypotension) can also cause health problems. Symptoms of low blood pressure may include dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, fatigue, blurred vision, and nausea. If your at-home blood pressure monitor consistently shows a blood pressure less than 90/60 mmHg, tell your doctor so they can help you identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Best for Beginners

iHealth Track Smart Monitor With Cuff

$35.99 at Amazon
$49.98Now 28% Off

Pros

  • One-touch design
  • Easy-to-read backlit display
  • Color-coded indicator for hypertension
  • Syncs with app for data storage
  • Ability to download results
  • FDA-cleared

Cons

  • App requires Bluetooth 4.0 and up
  • Not rechargeable

Key Specs

  • Cuff size: 8.7 to 18.9 inches
  • Irregular heartbeat detection: Yes
  • Number of users: 1
  • Memory per user: 99 on device; unlimited in app
  • App: Yes
  • HSA/FSA eligible: Yes
  • Storage case included: No
  • Power: 4 x AAA batteries

The iHealth Track Smart Blood Pressure Monitor is a great option for beginners with its extra-large, light-up display featuring bold numbers and a simple two-button interface. The backlit screen makes it easy to read your results in dim lighting and is perfect for early-morning or bedtime readings. The standard upper-arm cuff is adjustable up to 16.5 inches to accommodate a range of arm sizes. There is also an XL cuff size sold separately that adjusts from 16.5 to 18.9 inches.

The backlit display changes colors to alert you if your blood pressure is in the hypertensive range. Green signifies a normal reading, yellow signifies normal-high, and red indicates high blood pressure (hypertension type 2, hypertension type 3). There is also a feature that alerts you if an irregular heartbeat is detected.

While the device itself stores up to 99 readings, the free iHealth MyVitals app allows you to save unlimited readings to track changes in your blood pressure over time. The device connects to any phone with Bluetooth 4.0 or higher and syncs your readings in its free cloud service. The app also features note-taking, reminders, and data export options so you can download a PDF report and take it to your next appointment.

Best Advanced

Garmin Index BPM Smart Blood Pressure Monitor

$182.99 at Amazon
$199.99Now 9% Off

Pros

  • Modern design
  • Syncs with Garmin Connect app
  • Can store unlimited readings in the app
  • Integrates with other Garmin devices
  • FDA-cleared

Cons

  • The small display may be difficult to read
  • App can be somewhat complex to navigate

Key Specs

  • Cuff size: 9 to 16.5 inches
  • Irregular heartbeat detection: Yes
  • Number of users: 16
  • Memory per user: 100-plus on device; unlimited in app
  • App: Yes
  • HSA/FSA eligible: Yes
  • Storage case included: No
  • Power: 4 x AAA batteries

The Garmin Index BPM Smart Blood Pressure Monitor pairs advanced features with a compact, modern design. This FDA-cleared device allows you to track your blood pressure and sync the results to the free version of the Garmin Connect app — you can upgrade to the paid Connect+ version for a more personalized experience. If you're already a Garmin user, it seamlessly integrates with other Garmin devices for a more comprehensive health-tracking experience.

I personally tested the device over several weeks. Aside from how sleek it looks on my nightstand, it's easy to put on after the initial pairing and adjustment. The app is user-friendly but a bit more complex than other companion apps because it has additional capabilities to integrate with other Garmin devices, such as a heart rate monitor or fitness tracker. But this also means you can track more data to give you a better overall look at your health.

One of my favorite things about this monitor is how compact it is. The one-piece design trumps having a separate base and cuff, and it's small enough to put in my purse. I also appreciate being able to create up to 16 user profiles for multi-user monitoring and generate PDF reports, with color-coded graphs based on data from the American Heart Association. The monitor's display is pretty small, which could make it difficult to read if you have vision impairments. Otherwise, it's a solid choice if you're tech-savvy and want advanced features.

Best Budget-Friendly

iProven Blood Pressure Monitor With App

$24.96 at Amazon
$34.97Now 29% Off

Pros

  • Simple one-button operation
  • Has a large backlit display
  • Ideal for travel
  • App is iOS and Android compatible
  • Movement indicator alerts you to potential incorrect readings

Cons

  • Can't sync to third-party apps without paying a yearly subscription
  • No irregular heartbeat detection

Key Specs

  • Cuff size: 8.75 to 16.5 inches
  • Irregular heartbeat detection: Yes
  • Number of users: 3
  • Memory per user: Up to 99; unlimited in-app
  • App: Yes
  • HSA/FSA eligible: Yes
  • Storage case included: No
  • Power: 4 x AAA batteries

The iProven Blood Pressure Monitor is an affordable and practical option if you want basic functionality with a few modern features. It’s perfect if you're on a budget but still want app integration to keep track of your results without manual logging.

This upper-arm monitor is very straightforward. It features one-button operation and a nicely sized backlit display. To use, you'll wrap the cuff around your upper left arm, press the button, and wait while the monitor takes the measurement. Up to three users can create profiles on the device, and each profile saves up to 50 readings.

The device connects to the optional iProven app via Bluetooth, so you can back up your results and export reports. You can store as many measurements as you'd like within the app's logbook. We also appreciate the movement sensor that alerts you if the monitor detects movement during a reading. A small movement symbol will appear in the bottom left corner of the display to signify the reading may be inaccurate. One drawback is that you can't sync your readings with third-party tracking apps or platforms, like Apple Health and Fitbit, without paying a yearly subscription fee.

Wellue Smart Blood Pressure Watch

Best Wearable

Wellue Smart Blood Pressure Watch

Pros

  • Worn on the wrist like a smartwatch
  • Measures blood pressure, pulse, and blood oxygen
  • Monitors steps and calories burned
  • Syncs with the LiveFit app
  • Receive calls, texts, and app notifications on the device

Cons

  • May not be as accurate as traditional blood pressure monitors
  • Best used by only one user

Key Specs

  • Cuff size: N/A
  • Irregular heartbeat detection: No
  • Number of users: 1
  • Memory per user: Unlimited in-app
  • App: Yes
  • HSA/FSA eligible: Yes
  • Storage case included: No
  • Power: Rechargeable

The Wellue Smart Blood Pressure Watch is the best wearable blood pressure monitor because it offers convenience and function packed into a smartwatch-style design. Unlike traditional monitors, this smart blood pressure watch is more like a fitness wearable that directly monitors your blood pressure from your wrist. Plus, it's built-in health tracking makes it perfect for those who want to track multiple health metrics.

The Wellue Smart Watch schedules regular blood pressure measurements throughout the day so you can correlate changes in your readings with your daily activities, like exercise and sleep patterns. You can view your results directly on the watch's clear display or sync it with the app for a more in-depth analysis. It also tracks steps, exercise, and calories burned. Paired with the free LiveFit app, you can easily review your results, including averages across your last three readings.

While it excels in terms of versatility, it’s worth noting that it may not be as accurate as traditional arm-cuff blood pressure monitors and is best suited for single-user operation. But if you're interested in multi-metric health tracking and smartwatch features, it may be worth considering.

Best Easy to Read

Braun ExactFit 3 Blood Pressure Monitor

$54.99 at Amazon
$64.99Now 15% Off

Pros

  • Large, easy-to-read display
  • Includes two cuff sizes
  • Supports multiple users with separate memory storage
  • Alerts you to pulse irregularities
  • Color-coded indicators simplify the interpretation

Cons

  • Smaller storage capacity compared with other models
  • No app for backing up data or tracking progress

Key Specs

  • Cuff size: 8.75 to 16.5 inches (S/M and L/XL cuffs)
  • Irregular heartbeat detection: Yes
  • Number of users: 2
  • Memory per user: Up to 40
  • App: No
  • HSA/FSA eligible: Yes
  • Storage case included: Yes
  • Power: 4 x AA batteries

The Braun ExactFit 3 is thoughtfully designed with a large backlit display that provides clear and concise readings. The oversize screen is ideal for those prioritizing visibility and ease of use. This model comes with two cuff sizes: small/medium and large/extra-large. I tested the small/medium cuff on myself. It was easy to connect to the base and stayed in place during readings.

After setting the date and time, I was ready to take my first reading. I placed the cuff on my upper left arm with the inflation tube positioned over my brachial artery, as indicated in the user manual. I then turned the device on and pressed the start button. But my first attempt was unsuccessful because the cuff inflated well above 220 mmHg systolic, despite my blood pressure being below 120/80. After readjusting the cuff and giving it another try, it worked flawlessly.

The monitor displayed my systolic and diastolic readings along with my pulse rate in numbers and on a color-coded bar scale. I tested the device multiple times throughout the next few weeks without issues. The ExactFit 3 accommodates two users, featuring a toggle switch to change between users, and stores up to 40 readings per user. Unfortunately, many other monitors in this price range have larger storage capacities, and there's no companion app for saving additional readings. Still, the display is one of the best we've seen in terms of readability.

Best for Small Arms

Omron Evolv Upper Arm Monitor

$74.97 at Amazon
$105Now 29% Off

Pros

  • Travel friendly
  • One-piece cuff simplifies use
  • Backlit display for easy reading
  • Irregular heartbeat detection
  • Easier to put on than two-piece models
  • FDA-cleared

Cons

  • Numbers are small and may be hard to read for some users
  • Battery compartment can be difficult to open

Key Specs

  • Cuff size: 9 to 17 inches
  • Irregular heartbeat detection: Yes
  • Number of users: Unlimited in app
  • Memory per user: Unlimited in app
  • App: Yes
  • HSA/FSA eligible: Yes
  • Storage case included: No
  • Power: 4 x AAA batteries

We selected the Omron Evolv Upper Arm Monitor as the best option for small arms because of its versatile and unique one-piece cuff. Unlike traditional two-piece models, the Evolv eliminates the hassle of separate components. During testing, I found it easier to put on than the other models because the cuff is more rigid and stays in place while you position it.

I appreciate the backlit display for taking measurements in low-light conditions. The numbers are somewhat small, though: I didn't have an issue reading my results, but someone with vision impairments may find it challenging. Other features include an irregular heartbeat symbol that alerts you if your heart rhythm is 25 percent faster or slower than your average rhythm during the measurement, according to the company.

Additionally, the device is compatible with the free OMRON Connect app. You can sync your data using Bluetooth to save unlimited measurements, share your results with your provider, or set up multiple user profiles. While I really love the overall design, I struggled to open the battery compartment because it's tucked away on the underside of the monitor where the cuff connects. Replacing the batteries could be an issue if you have larger hands or limited dexterity.

Best for Wrist

Oklar Rechargeable Blood Pressure Monitor for Wrist

$28.99 at Amazon
$39.99Now 28% Off

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Great for travel
  • Rechargeable with type-C cable
  • Has a voice broadcast function
  • Low battery and charging indicators

Cons

  • No app for storing readings
  • May not be suitable for those with larger wrists

Key Specs

  • Cuff size: 4.92 to 8.46 inches
  • Irregular heartbeat detection: No
  • Number of users: 2
  • Memory per user: 120
  • App: No
  • HSA/FSA eligible: Yes
  • Storage case included: Yes
  • Power: Rechargeable

We like this Oklar Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor because it's compact, easy to use, and rechargeable with a type-C cable. It comes with a hard-sided carrying case for storing both the device and the charging cable. This model is ideal for those who can't use traditional upper arm cuffs due to previous surgeries or other medical conditions.

This was the only monitor I tested with voice broadcast functionality. When you turn it on, it will walk you through the steps of taking your blood pressure. After the measurement, the audible voice tells you your blood pressure reading and pulse. It's a helpful feature for those with visual impairments or who prefer audible feedback. It has a large display with bold numbers and indicators for low, normal, and high blood pressure readings. I love the simplicity of this model. It takes just 60 seconds to put the wrist cuff on and take your blood pressure.

While there isn't an app, it does have built-in memory for storing up to 240 readings across two users. If you're tracking long-term, you'll likely need to record your readings manually. It's also important to note that "The American Heart Association recommends using an automatic, cuff-style monitor on the upper arm, as wrist monitors tend to give less reliable readings due to their sensitivity to positioning," said Neil D. Shah, MD, a noninvasive cardiologist at Sandra Atlas Bass Hospital at North Shore University Hospital, Northwell Health, in Great Neck, New York. "Still, wrist monitors may be appropriate for people who can’t use an upper-arm cuff, such as those with large arms or certain medical conditions."

Best for Travel

Homedics Wrist Monitor with Case

$24.99 at Amazon
$26.99Now 7% Off

Pros

  • Compact
  • Can view the average of your last three readings
  • Has risk category indicator lights
  • Body motion detector tells you if movement is interfering with the reading
  • Automatically shuts off with inactivity

Cons

  • Limited features compared to other models
  • Smaller storage capacity compared to other models

Key Specs

  • Cuff size: 5.3 to 7.7 inches
  • Irregular heartbeat detection: Yes
  • Number of users: 2
  • Memory per user: 30
  • App: No
  • HSA/FSA Eligible: Yes
  • Storage case included: Yes
  • Power: 2 x AAA batteries

If you travel often, you may benefit from a blood pressure monitor small enough to pack in your carry-on. The Homedics Wrist Monitor is a simple yet reliable monitor with all the features you need and none of the bulk.

The display is large, results are shown clearly, and the monitor stores up to 60 readings (30 each for two users). After taking your blood pressure, you can see which risk category the measurement falls into along the right side of the screen (normal, prehypertensive, or hypertensive). You can also see the average of your last three readings for a clearer picture of your blood pressure. If the monitor detects excessive movement during the reading, it will alert you so you can repeat the reading for more accurate results.

While it may lack some advanced features, it’s dependable and budget-friendly. It's an excellent backup option to keep in your travel bag. The limited storage capacity might deter some people, but others may appreciate how compact and straightforward it is.

Best With App

Omron Platinum Blood Pressure Monitor

$124.99 at Amazon

Pros

  • Features a large, easy-to-read display
  • High morning average indicator alerts you to risky readings
  • Can compare current reading with previous ones
  • App is compatible with iOS and Android devices
  • Integrates with Amazon Alexa
  • FDA-cleared

Cons

  • Higher price point compared with non-app-enabled models
  • Bulkier design is not as travel-friendly

Key Specs

  • Cuff size: 9 to 17 inches
  • Irregular heartbeat detection: Yes
  • Number of users: 2
  • Memory per user: 100; unlimited in app
  • App: Yes
  • HSA/FSA eligible: Yes
  • Storage case included: Yes
  • Power: AC adapter or 4 x AA batteries

If you want to track your historical readings to better understand your blood pressure trends, we recommend the Omron Platinum Blood Pressure Monitor. The Omron app lets you easily view and compare your current readings with previous ones. There are also helpful graphs and charts that enable you to visualize your readings during different times of the day and identify potential triggers for high or low blood pressure, such as stress or exercise.

The device offers accuracy, ease of use, and comfort. You can create two user profiles and switch between them with a simple toggle switch on the device's front panel. Each user can store up to 100 readings, but the app allows unlimited storage. There's also a guest mode for occasional users who don't want to create a profile.

The device boasts an averaging technology called TruRead that takes three consecutive measurements and calculates the average to ensure accurate readings. You can also view the average of your last three individual readings. Other noteworthy features include an atrial fibrillation (afib) detection feature and a High Morning Average Indicator that alerts you if your morning readings are consistently high. Research shows that cardiovascular events are more likely to occur in the morning hours related to the body's circadian rhythm.

It costs more than the basic models, but the advanced technology and intuitive app interface make it worth the investment if you're looking for a way to save and compare your data long-term.

Comparison Table

BEST
CUFF SIZE
IRREGULAR HEARTBEAT DETECTION
NUMBER OF USERS / MEMORY PER USER
APP?
CASE?
POWER
For beginners
8.7 to 18.9 inches
Yes
1 user; 99 on device and unlimited in app
Yes
No
4 x AAA batteries
Advanced
9 to 16.5 inches
Yes
16 users; 100-plus on device and unlimited in app
Yes
No
4 x AAA batteries
Budget-friendly
8.75 to 16.5 inches
Yes
3 users; Up to 99 readings and unlimited in-app
Yes
No
4 x AAA batteries
Wearable
N/A
No
1 user; unlimited in app
Yes
No
Rechargeable
Easy to read
8.75 to 16.5 inches; includes S/M and L/XL cuffs
Yes
2 users; Up to 40 per user
No
Yes
4 x AA batteries
Small arms
9 to 17 inches
Yes
Unlimited users in app; unlimited memory in app
Yes
No
4 x AAA batteries
Wrist
4.92 to 8.46 inches
No
2 users; 120 per user
No
Yes
Rechargeable
Travel
5.3 to 7.7 inches
Yes
2 users; 30 per user
No
Yes
2 x AAA batteries
With app
9 to 17 inches
Yes
2 users; 100 per user and unlimited in app
Yes
Yes
AC adapter or 4 x AA batteries

How We Tested Blood Pressure Monitors

We spoke with several healthcare providers to learn more about what makes a good blood pressure monitor. After compiling a list of top-rated monitors and carefully reviewing each one's key specs and features, we narrowed down our selection to the products that best fit our expectations.

As a former cardiac nurse, I personally tested four blood pressure monitors on this list. I measured my own blood pressure several times with each monitor over the course of two weeks, paying close attention to my experience with each device. We also spoke with five experts, including board-certified cardiologists and a cardiac electrophysiologist. Their insights, combined with our hands-on testing, helped us determine the top picks. These are the experts we consulted:

  • Erica Spatz, MD, an associate professor of cardiology and associate professor of epidemiology at Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut
  • Jonathan Fialkow, MD, a cardiologist and the chief of cardiology at Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute in Miami
  • Neil D. Shah, MD, noninvasive cardiologist at Sandra Atlas Bass Hospital at North Shore University Hospital Northwell Health in New York
  • Jana Goldberg, MD, a cardiologist and the chief medical officer of Heartbeat Health
  • Sergio Conti, MD, PhD, a cardiac electrophysiologist with the University of Iowa Health Care in Iowa City

What to Look For When Buying a Blood Pressure Monitor

According to Dr. Goldberg, you should consider several factors before purchasing a blood pressure monitor. She recommends looking for a clinically validated monitor, which means it has undergone testing to ensure its accuracy. Dr. Goldberg says to look for a device listed by validation protocols such as those from the American National Standards Institute, British Hypertension Society, or STRIDE BP.

She also recommends choosing a monitor that fits your upper arm or wrist comfortably, as an ill-fitting cuff can affect the accuracy of readings. "A poorly fitting cuff is one of the most common sources of inaccurate readings," she says. "Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007–2010) indicate that 52 percent of men and 38 percent of women with hypertension require a cuff size different from a standard adult-sized BP cuff."

Some other key factors to consider when buying a blood pressure monitor include:

  • Ease of use: Look for a device with a straightforward interface and clear instructions. Models with large, easy-to-read screens and one-touch operation are beneficial for reducing user error and ensuring a seamless experience.
  • Memory: Many blood pressure monitors offer built-in memory for storing previous readings. If you plan to track your reading over time, opt for a monitor that can store sufficient data. Some devices have a companion app that will automatically track and store unlimited readings, which is beneficial for users who need to monitor their blood pressure frequently.
  • Connectivity: Consider smart monitors that sync via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi with mobile apps. These features enable automatic data transfer, provide detailed trend analysis, and often include reminders to take regular measurements.
  • Irregular heartbeat detection: Some monitors have an irregular heartbeat detection feature that can alert you to possible arrhythmias. It's important to note that these alerts do not replace a proper medical diagnosis.
  • Other features: Features like multi-user support, motion detection, adjustable cuff sizes, and portability are worth exploring to align with your specific needs. "My recommendation is to go with what fits into your lifestyle the best," Dr. Goldberg says.

How Do Blood Pressure Monitors Work?

Most at-home blood pressure monitors use an automated oscillometric method.

 The device detects blood movement through your brachial artery using sensors in the cuff, says Dr. Conti. The cuff inflates, temporarily restricting blood flow, and then gradually releases it.
The monitor then calculates your systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number) pressures based on the vibrations of your blood flow. Your systolic pressure represents the pressure when your heart beats, and the diastolic pressure represents the pressure when your heart is at rest between beats.

You can also check your blood pressure manually using a blood pressure cuff with a sphygmomanometer and a stethoscope, but this method requires training and practice.

 Most people opt for a digital blood pressure monitor because it is easier to use and more accurate for those without a healthcare background.

What Is a Normal Blood Pressure Monitor Reading?

According to the American Heart Association, a normal blood pressure reading is typically defined as a systolic pressure of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mmHg.

This is expressed as a reading of 120/80 mmHg. Readings within this range are generally considered healthy for most adults and indicate minimal risk of heart-related complications. But blood pressure can vary according to diet, physical activity, stress levels, and underlying health conditions.

"We have to realize that our blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day, even with changes in position, so we always want to monitor the blood pressure and look at trends and averages," Dr. Fialkow explains. While the consensus is that the ideal blood pressure is below 120/80, most doctors typically avoid prescribing medication unless readings consistently exceed this range. "Special high-risk populations, such as people with diabetes, heart disease, and/or kidney problems, would have recommendations to keep on the lower end,” Fialkow adds.

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, occurs when blood pressure falls below 90/60 mm/Hg. While it's not always cause for concern, persistently low blood pressure can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, fatigue, or shock in severe cases. It often results from factors such as dehydration, blood loss, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions like endocrine disorders.

Consult your doctor if you notice consistent high or low blood pressure readings on your home monitor. You can also take your monitor to your next appointment to compare its readings with the one at your doctor's office.

What Is the Correct Way to Take Your Blood Pressure?

Spatz says it’s important to get into a relaxed position before taking your blood pressure. "The American Heart Association recommends sitting in a chair that provides back support, with both feet flat on the ground," she says.

To take your blood pressure, follow these steps from the AHA:

  1. Sit down and place your feet flat on the floor.
  2. Rest for at least five minutes before taking your measurement.
  3. If using an upper arm cuff, place the cuff on your bare upper arm, one inch above the bend of your elbow.
  4. Make sure the cuff is snug enough that it won't slide down your arm but not too tight.
  5. Rest your forearm on a flat surface and ensure the upper arm and cuff are at heart level.
  6. When you’re ready, press start on your monitor and stay still while it takes the measurement.

It's important to take multiple readings, preferably at the same time each day, for a more accurate average. Spatz also recommends taking your blood pressure with an empty bladder. "It is best to check the blood pressure in the morning before coffee or taking pills and in the evening," she says.

FAQ

Can a tight blood pressure cuff cause a high reading?
Yes, a tight blood pressure cuff can cause inaccurate and high readings. A cuff that's too loose, on the other hand, can cause low readings. Before purchasing a device, measure around your upper arm and choose a monitor that comes with the correct cuff size, says Dr. Conti. An upper arm cuff should be secured snugly on your bare upper arm, allowing just enough space to slide your index and middle fingers comfortably between the cuff and your skin.
Conti says the only risk may be related to inaccurate readings. This can occur for various reasons, such as an unapproved monitor, a low-quality device, or improper usage. "These factors can lead to misclassification and overmedication based on false readings," Dr. Conti adds. To ensure the accuracy of your readings, follow the manufacturer's instructions and have your device calibrated regularly by a healthcare professional.

Dr. Shah says it depends on your individual health needs. Some people may only require occasional check-ins, while others might benefit from more frequent monitoring — daily or twice a day — when adjusting medications, managing uncontrolled hypertension, or tracking specific symptoms. "It’s important to discuss the best approach for you with your healthcare team."

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Lindsay Modglin

Author

Lindsay Modglin is a former nurse and health writer who specializes in covering chronic illness, women's health, oncology, and wellness products that help empower readers to take control of their health and well-being. Her byline has been featured in many digital publications, including Healthline, Verywell Health, Parents, Forbes, Yahoo, AOL, Insider, and more. Her print work has been published in oncology magazines like Cancer Today and Cure.

Prior to becoming a writer, Lindsay started working in healthcare in 2012 as an optician while she was pursuing her nursing license before working as a registered nurse in a clinical healthcare setting. This experience gave her firsthand knowledge of the challenges and complexities that patients face when managing chronic illnesses and navigating the healthcare system.

Today, when Lindsay is not writing, she enjoys camping and traveling across the United States with her husband and three children. She also volunteers as a creative writer for a non-profit organization that supports children with life-threatening illnesses and as a soccer coach for her children's teams.

Orlando de Guzman

Fact-Checker

Orlando de Guzman is a writer and editor with expertise in health and environmental news. He has a background in investigative and science journalism and has worked on documentary films about war and trauma, health, sanitation, and the changing climate around the world. His interest in health and medicine started after an early career as a medical and legal translator.

De Guzman is a longtime health and fitness enthusiast who is interested in nutrition, diet, and mental health. He participates in endurance sports and cross-trains in several traditions of martial arts from Southeast Asia. De Guzman is interested in how the progressively complex movements of martial arts training can improve cognition and mental well-being, especially for those with PTSD and for those approaching middle age and beyond.

De Guzman has a dual B.A. in communications and international studies from the University of Washington in Seattle. He is committed to factual storytelling and evidence-based reporting on critical choices that affect our planet.

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CJ Abellon

Editor

CJ Abellon has served as a senior editor for publications focusing on health, wellness, and children's education. She has covered topics ranging from health conditions like bunions, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and heart disease to parenthood and product reviews.

EDITORIAL SOURCES
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