How to keep a home blood pressure log (morning and evening)
Short answer: measure at about the same times each day, usually once in the morning before medication, food and coffee and once in the evening. Sit quietly for 5 minutes first, take two or three readings one minute apart, and write every number down with the date and time. Bring the log to your doctor.
1. When to measure
- Morning: after using the bathroom, before medication, breakfast and caffeine.
- Evening: before dinner or before bed, at a similar time each day.
- Keep the same schedule so readings are comparable. Your doctor may ask for a specific routine, for example for a week before a visit.
2. How to sit (AHA tips)
- No caffeine, exercise or smoking for 30 minutes before.
- Sit with your back supported and feet flat on the floor, legs uncrossed.
- Rest your arm on a table with the cuff at heart level, on bare skin.
- Rest quietly for 5 minutes and don't talk during the reading.
3. What to write down
Systolic, diastolic and pulse for every reading, plus date, time and anything unusual (missed medication, poor sleep, stress). A paper diary works, but a log app makes it easier to see averages and morning vs evening patterns.
4. Reading the numbers (reference only)
The American Heart Association groups adult readings as: normal below 120/80 mmHg, elevated 120 to 129 systolic with diastolic below 80, stage 1 hypertension 130 to 139 or 80 to 89, stage 2 hypertension 140/90 or higher. A reading above 180/120 needs prompt medical attention. These categories are general information; your own target is set with your doctor.
Doing it with Readband
Readband is a log for the numbers your monitor shows. It does not measure blood pressure itself. Tap + Log BP, type systolic, diastolic and pulse, save. You get morning and overall averages, 7/30/90-day charts, optional morning and evening reminders and a CSV for your doctor.
For reference only. This guide does not diagnose or treat anything. Targets differ from person to person; follow your doctor or care team.
FAQ
Should I measure blood pressure in the morning or evening?
Both, if your doctor agrees. A common routine is a morning reading before medication, food and coffee, and an evening reading, at about the same times each day.
How many readings should I take each time?
The AHA suggests taking two or three readings one minute apart and recording all of them.
Is one high reading something to worry about?
A single reading can be off. Look at the pattern over days and share your log with your doctor. If you have symptoms or a very high reading, seek medical help right away.
Get Readband, a 3-second blood pressure log (Google Play)
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