StrokeSense : Are You At Risk?

Self-Monitoring Your Condition

Many people monitor their blood pressure or cholesterol at home to help control their risk for stroke and heart disease.

Blood pressure kits for home monitoring are available at most pharmacies. Some require use of an attached stethoscope, whereas others are simplified with digitally displayed blood pressure and pulse. Patients can measure their blood pressure regularly at home and at work, and they can bring records of their readings to their physician visits. This helps monitor the blood pressure's response to changes in diet and exercise, weight loss, or medication.

Home cholesterol test kits measure total cholesterol and are fast, reliable, and easy to read. If used properly, they can help patients control their cholesterol by monitoring it on a regular basis. You can monitor changes based on changes in diet, exercise, weight loss, or medication.

References

1. Blood Pressure Monitoring at Home, American Academy of Family Physicians, 2001.
   
2. Lewis, C. Home Diagnostic Tests: The Ultimate House Call? FDA Consumer, Food and Drug Administration, November-December 2001.

Source of Material: RockHill Communications, 14 Rock Hill Road Bala, Cynwyd, PA 19004, (610) 667-2040,
Writer: Christine Norris
Editors: Erin Murphy, Andrea King, Joanne Poeggel, Ron Wozny
Clinical Reviewer: Patt Panzer, M.D.
Date Written: 4/30/01
Last Revised: 4/3/03