DEAR DR. GOTT: If a doctor recommends that you (an elderly person) monitor blood pressure a couple of times a week, is there a time of day when it is best to take it? Is it lower in the morning, afternoon or evening?
DEAR READER: To get an accurate measure of what your blood pressure is averaging, it is usually best to check in the morning and again at night. Be sure to keep a record of what time you take the readings. It may also be helpful to make a list of physical activities each day and what time they occurred, since exercise, for example, can raise the blood pressure during and immediately following. Salt may also increase blood pressure.
If you have a digital blood-pressure monitor, have it calibrated by your physician before use. He or she should also review its usage so you will be able to obtain more accurate readings. I do not recommend finger or wrist monitors, because they are extremely sensitive to temperature and position, and can provide inaccurate readings.
To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Hypertension.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.
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