People with high blood pressure need to routinely monitor their blood pressures while at home, according to the American Heart Association.

That's because traditional methods of monitoring blood pressure in doctors' offices can be misleading.

Up to 20 per cent of people diagnosed with high blood pressure may have a "white coat effect" where their pressures are normal but rise abnormally in the medical setting.

Conversely, those with normal pressures may spike to dangerous levels in certain situations.

While the American Heart Association has recommended home monitors in the past, today's statement is the first time they've given detailed recommendations on their use, including:

  • Buying monitors with cuffs that properly fit on the upper arm
  • Wrist monitors are not recommended
  • Take two or three readings, one minute apart while sitting with your back supported, feet on the floor, and arm supported at heart level.
  • Take the readings at the same time each day or as recommended by your healthcare professional.

According to the scientific statement, home monitoring gives a more accurate assessment of a patient's circumstances.

It's particularly useful in the elderly patients with diabetes or kidney disease, and in pregnant women.

Fifty per cent of people over the age of 60 have high blood pressure.

Which home monitors are more accurate?

Only a few of the home blood pressure monitors on the market have undergone proper validation tests for accuracy. According to the validating bodies, several devices have actually failed.

Tow validated models that I recommended to my patients because they are widely available at local drugstores and Costco are the LifeSource UA-767 and the Microlife model 3AC1-1PC. The model numbers are important, and both cost about $90.

If you already have a home monitor, check its accuracy by taking it to your doctor's office to compare it with the readings on their professional devices.

What should the home blood pressure readings be for good health?

Blood pressure measurements can vary throughout the day. Eating, alcohol, caffeine, stress, exercise, climate, and time of day can make a difference according to the American Health Association. The target goal with a home monitor is less than 135/85 for the average person.

With a report by CTV British Columbia's Dr. Rhonda Low