Recent Blog Articles
When replenishing fluids, does milk beat water?
Safe, joyful movement for people of all weights
Slowing down racing thoughts
Are women turning to cannabis for menopause symptom relief?
3 ways to create community and counter loneliness
Helping children make friends: What parents can do
Can electrical brain stimulation boost attention, memory, and more?
Palliative care frightens some people: Here’s how it helps
Parents don't always realize that their teen is suicidal
Shift work can harm sleep and health: What helps?
By the way, doctor: When is the best time to check your own blood pressure?
Q. I'm starting to check my blood pressure at home. When during the day should I do it?
A. You can check it any time of the day, but try to do it the same time every day, and in the same arm. Blood pressures do tend to be higher in the morning, partly because of the little burst of adrenaline we need to get ourselves going at the start of the day. Just be sure to check it after you have been sitting quietly for about five minutes. You shouldn't take any medications just before the measurement, especially ones like decongestants that can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure. Caffeinated or alcoholic beverages can also throw off a reading.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!
