High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer,” because people who suffer from it often don’t even know they have it. Aside from random headaches, there may not be a single symptom at all.

Even more serious is the fact that most people’s blood pressure measures higher in their doctor’s office (called white coat symptom) than at home, triggering doctors to prescribe overused blood pressure medications with deadly side effects.

But not all home blood pressure monitors are created equal. Some result in serious inaccuracy of 10, even 20%, making them completely useless. And pricier is not always better.

There are many monitors out there, so you want to consider what type you are the most comfortable with and choose features from there.

There are two types of home blood pressure monitors widely available: wrist monitors and arm cuff style.

They both measure systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure.

The most popular type is the arm cuff monitor. It’s very popular and also, in most cases, extremely accurate. You just slip the cuff on your arm, up around the bicep. Push the button and sit back while it does the rest of the work.
These battery-powered automatic cuffs self-inflate, then deflate in less than one minute, with a clear reading displayed, usually including heart rate.

The other type of monitor is the wrist cuff. It’s much smaller and a lot more portable, which can be handy if you travel a lot for work or other purposes. However, the wrist models have been known to not be as accurate in the past.

Some things to keep in mind:

Don’t buy a used one. There are some things where it’s great to go to a garage sale and pick something up, but blood pressure monitors are not one of those. They’re really economical, so just get one new.

Make sure the cuff size is appropriate. If you get it from the pharmacy or at a department store, sometimes they’ll let you check the cuff to see if it fits well.

While you are there, ask the pharmacy tech to demonstrate it for you or explain it if you have never used one or that kind. It’s important to know you’ll be able to use it and also be able to see the reading clearly.

Some monitors have several additional features. We don’t necessarily recommend that. What you are after is an accurate blood pressure reading and the no-frills monitors do that job just fine. But if you’re concerned about arrhythmias or other conditions those pricier models say they can detect, have at it.

The most important part is to get in the habit of checking your blood pressure two or three times a day, preferably at the same times each day, and that you are rested and sitting when you check your blood pressure. As with all things, be consistent.

Now if your blood pressure is below 120/80 more than 70% of the time, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. Enjoy your healthy life.

But if you frequently measure your blood pressure above 120/80, especially above 130/90, you need to take action to bring it down. And it can almost always be done without medications.

The best way to bring your blood pressure below 120/80 is a set of 3 easy blood pressure exercises. Learn more and try these exercises out for yourself here…