You’ve gone to the doctor and discovered that you have high blood pressure. Your doctor has likely recommended you make some lifestyle changes such as increasing exercise, eating a low added salt diet, losing weight or stopping smoking. This can be overwhelming. But you do not have to do this alone. Talk with your pharmacist about setting up appointments. Your pharmacist can help you set goals while keeping you motivated and accountable to improving your health.
You will want to consider purchasing a blood pressure monitoring device (BPMD). Studies show that one of the best ways to get your blood pressure under control is to do self-monitoring. Having your own device allows you the flexibility of checking your readings twice a day in your normal surroundings.
When purchasing a BDMD, always verify that the device is recommended by Hypertension Canada (see figure). Talk with your pharmacist to ensure you buy a device that will meet your needs. They will also teach you how to use the device. Once home, you can review Hypertension Canada tips for measuring your blood pressure at this link – https://hypertension.ca/hypertension-and-you/managing-hypertension/measuring-blood-pressure/
Work with your doctor to establish:
- your target blood pressure
- the number of times to check your blood pressure each day
- what blood pressure reading should prompt you to seek medical attention
- when to have your next follow-up appointment to share your readings
Note about Apps:
- When choosing an App, be careful, because some collect your personal data and may not openly disclose what they are doing with it
- Beware of Apps that “measure” your blood pressure. These are not validated or reliable and are intended for “entertainment” purposes only
Bottom line:
Get involved in your health. Work together with your health care team. Together you can make a positive change.
