Always check your blood pressure

Always check your blood pressure, that is what any healthcare provider will mention to you. Even us doctors, that is the most used line my clinic whenever I see patient. May it be a new patient at the clinic, or even follow-up patients.

But have we ever stopped and wondered why we really have to check our blood pressure monitored? Is there any benefit if we check it daily, sometimes it leads to fear and anxiety because we are anticipating that our blood pressure may really do increase. Personally, I always tell my patients to just check their blood pressure in the morning before they get out of bed, and in the evening  before going to sleep. That way, they can monitor the baseline blood pressures, and not have the anxiety of monitoring hourly. I also inform my patients to record their blood pressure, so that whenever they seek consult, I can check if they are well-controlled, or if adjustment in dosing or even adding another anti-hypertensive is warranted.

I remember, a new patient went to the emergency room where I was posted, she was complaining of left sided body weakness with associated slurring of speech. In my mind that time, I was most certain that she was having a stroke. I inquired if she was taking any maintenance medications and if she was diagnosed with any illness to which she denied. Upon checking her blood pressure, it was noted to be 200/120mmHg. And so of course, she was admitted and treated. With this story, I want to impart to everyone that proper and appropriate monitoring of blood pressure can prevent complications such as this. A simple act like daily monitoring can be life saving for our loved ones!

But Doc Damian, how can I monitor my blood pressure, I don't have a relative that is a nurse, nor that works in the health care sector? FEAR NOT, since the advent of technology, there had been production of digital blood pressure that are accurate and comparable to manual blood pressure monitors. We just have to buy an upper arm digital blood pressure monitor. Also check the brand as well as reviews from the internet and other users.

Always remember, this simple act does wonders to prevent complications and is life-saving!