Monitoring your blood pressure at home can help you and your healthcare provider see how your heart is doing day to day. Whether you prefer pen and paper or an app on your phone, tracking your blood pressure consistently gives you the full picture.

These easy-to-use printable logs are perfect for keeping on your fridge or bringing to your doctor's visit:

• Daily Blood Pressure Log (PDF)

• Weekly Blood Pressure Chart and Diary (PDF)

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If you're more of a tech user, here are a few free and reliable apps to help track your blood pressure:

• Simple Blood Pressure Tracker – (iOS)

• SmartBP – (iOS, Android)

• My BP Lab – (Android)

• Blood Pressure Tracker BPMate – (iOS)

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• Don't eat or drink anything 30 minutes before you take your blood pressure.

• Empty your bladder before your reading.

• Sit in a comfortable chair with your back supported for at least 5 minutes before your reading.

• Put both feet flat on the ground and keep your legs uncrossed.

• Rest your arm with the cuff on a table at chest height.

• Make sure the cuff is snug but not too tight. The cuff should be against your bare skin, not over clothing.

• Do not talk while your blood pressure is being measured.

Watch this educational video.