Vital Signs  >  Taking a Blood Pressure

What to Tell the Doctor

a couple talks to a doctor
  • Have the person you care for take their blood pressure diary to each doctor’s visit.
  • Tell the doctor about any unexpected high or low blood pressure readings. Also report any factors you believe might have caused the elevation (such as refusal to take medicines, emotional upset).
  • Tell the doctor if the person you care for has any symptoms of high blood pressure, such as headaches or nose bleeds.
  • Tell the doctor if you are having difficulty seeing or hearing any part of the blood pressure measurement.
  • Always ask the doctor the BP measurement obtained during the office visit.