When your Doctor tells you that you have hypertension, high blood pressure, he might recommend you get a Sphygmomanometer.  You can use the Sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff) to keep track of your blood pressure.  There is no pain involved in this test, just some pressure on your arm. The Sphygmomanometer has a pressure cuff that you place around your arm and then use the bulb to add air and constrict the flow of blood.  As the air is released your blood flows again and with a stethoscope, you can hear the blood flow.  The number when the blood starts flowing is your systolic reading.  When all the pressure is released, the number that results is your diastolic reading.  So if your reading is 140 over 80, your systolic number is 140 and your diastolic number is 80.

According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/hbp/), below are the target blood pressure numbers:

Normal blood pressure   Systolic less than 120   and   Diastolic less than 80

Pre-hypertension              Systolic 120-139       or     Diastolic 80-89

High Blood Pressure         Systolic 140 and Up   or     Diastolic 90 and up

Readings taken at different times of the day and/or when you may be ill can cause the readings to fluctuate.  Your readings will change during the day, so it is a good idea to always do you’re at home testing in the same location and at the same time of day.  I usually check mine mid morning at my office desk.

High blood pressure is often called the silent killer, since there are no glaring symptoms.  Left untreated, high blood pressure can damage your heart, kidneys and blood vessels.

Many health professionals use a Sphygmomanometer in their daily tasks and they are trained in its use.  For at home care, many people recommend a blood pressure cuff, or blood pressure monitor.  It is easier to use and you don’t need a stethoscope.