Read the instructions

Your monitor will have come with instructions that show the best way to use it. If you're part of beth.ai's Hypertension Companion program you should use the tellbeth app to take a snap of the “how to” section of those instructions. Be sure to review these instructions from time to time.

No stimulants before a reading

Unless you're measuring the effect of these things, avoid caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, and exercise for an hour before taking your blood pressure. To capture your health progress, it's best to capture readings at the same times each day and under the same conditions.

Any position is usually OK

Your reading can be taken sitting, standing or lying down unless your doctor tells you otherwise. There may be differences between readings from these positions if you're older, diabetic, typically feel dizzy when you get up, or you're otherwise unwell.

Record it

If you're using the tellbeth app say “I've just recorded my blood pressure.” and Beth will collect and log your reading.

Get your monitor checked regularly

At least once a year, be sure to check your monitor's readings against those from one at a clinic that you know has been recently calibrated. If you take it to your next doctor's visit, a nurse or assistant can make sure it's calibrated and confirm that you're using use it correctly.