In the United States, 73 million people have high blood pressure—almost half are women. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and kidney damage. The American Heart Association and the Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association recommend that those with hypertension and borderline hypertension should monitor their blood pressure at home regularly. In May and June, the Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing and the Journal of the American Society of Hypertension stated that patients should be reimbursed for the cost of home monitors and that regular home monitoring is more accurate than occasional readings in healthcare settings. In addition, regular blood pressure readings are better in identifying heart attack risks and for evaluating the effects of various medications. Further, the article states, engaging patients in their own care proves to be effective where behavior changes can produce a positive outcome. Taking readings in healthcare settings may not be reflective of true blood pressure, and higher readings may be due to “white coat” hypertension. Adult hypertension is diagnosed when the systolic reading is 140 or greater or the diastolic reading is 90 or more. Prehyper-tension is diagnosed at systolic readings of 120 to 139 and diastolic readings of 80 to 89. Since there is no cure for hypertension, it must be managed with medication and changes of lifestyle. Readings taken at home should begin in the morning and before going to bed at night for a period of one week. Two or 3 readings at each stage will give a more accurate reflection of true blood pressure and should be shared with healthcare professionals for treatment decisions.
(Source: Harvard Women’s Health Watch, August 2008)
