When you take a photograph, the snapshot captures a specific moment in time. But it doesn’t show you what happened next. The same is true of blood pressure readings. Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day. And a screening test performed at the doctor’s office depicts your blood pressure level only at that instant. However, a recent study found that regular home blood pressure monitoring can provide a clearer picture of your blood pressure over time.

Regular Home Monitoring Can Predict Heart Troubles
Researchers analyzed the data of more than 2,000 people ages 45 to 74. Some had their blood pressure carefully tested twice during a doctor’s office visit. Others checked their blood pressure at home twice a day for a week using a monitoring device. After nearly seven years, the researchers found that home blood pressure monitoring was significantly better in predicting heart-related events such as a heart attack or stroke.

Researchers believed the increased accuracy was primarily due to the higher number of readings. In addition, home monitoring eliminated the “white coat syndrome,” in which anxiety in the doctor’s office can lead to temporarily higher readings. The study authors said further follow-up studies should be conducted to validate the results.

Physician Visits Still Vital to Heart Health
Home blood pressure monitoring does not replace the need to see your doctor. Rather, it can provide vital information to help your doctor better treat your condition and prevent potential problems. The American Heart Association recommends charting your daily blood pressure readings to bring to each doctor appointment.

Test Your Blood Pressure Knowledge
Think you know what puts you at risk for high blood pressure? To test your knowledge, go to www.paramount.staywellsolutionsonline.com and type “Blood Pressure Quiz” in the search bar.