Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a silent killer. Left untreated, it can lead to a heart attack or stroke. It is important to check and monitor your blood pressure regularly. This information is not a substitute for medical advice from your doctor.
Checkout a Blood Pressure Monitor
These are easy to use, battery operated, have multiple cuff sizes and include a log sheet to record your readings. Offered in partnership with the American Heart Association.
Check Out More Ways to be "Heart Smart"
Celebrate American Heart Month
Contents of the Kit
The kit includes:
- Blood pressure monitor unit
- 3 blood pressure cuffs (small, standard, and large)
- AC adapter
- Laminated educational material sheet
- Log sheets
Download the Log
Learn How to Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home
This educational video helps you properly self-measure your blood pressure.
What Blood Pressure Readings Mean
| Blood Pressure Category | Systolic mm Hg (Upper Number) |
Diastolic mm Hg (Lower Number) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less Than 120 | and | Less Than 80 |
| Elevated | 120-129 | and | Less Than 80 |
| High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Stage 1 |
130-139 | or | 80-89 |
| High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Stage 2 |
140 or Higher | or | 90 or Higher |
| Hypertensive Crisis (consult your doctor immediately) |
Higher Than 180 | and/or | Higher Than 120 |
For Accurate Results, Consider the Following Tips:
- Use the bathroom before you measure your blood pressure.
- Avoid exercise, caffeine and tobacco at least 30 minutes before taking your blood pressure.
- Find a quiet space without distractions.
- Sit with your back supported and do not cross your legs or ankles. Have your feet flat on the floor.
- Rest your arm on a firm, flat surface with your palm facing up.
- Place the blood pressure cuff on your bare upper arm just above your elbow.
- Relax and rest your arm so the cuff is at the same height as your heart.
- Rest quietly for five minutes before taking your blood pressure.
- When completed, write down your blood pressure numbers and your pulse.
- Check your blood pressure at around the same time each morning and evening.
- For more information, visit LowerYourHBP.org
Local Resources
These local health care sites may be accepting new patients. If you do not currently have a doctor, please consider contacting them. Some sites may provide free or low-cost medical care or refer you to sources of care.
Catherine’s Health Center | Catherineshc.org
- Catherine’s Creston: 616-336-8800
- Catherine’s Wyoming: 616-320-0405
- Catherine’s at Streams: 616-483-0750
Cherry Health | Cherryhealth.org
- Multiple locations throughout West Michigan
616-965-8308
Exalta Health | exaltahealth.org
- 616-475-8446
211 – Heart of West Michigan United Way | hwmuw.org/211
- Call 211
More Resources
Educational Materials in Your Local Library
