About half of all adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure, also called hypertension. This stealth condition is nicknamed the silent killer because, while it has few or no symptoms, it can raise your risk of stroke, heart attack and kidney disease.

While all annual wellness visits include a blood pressure reading, that yearly appointment might not be enough to keep your blood pressure in check. In fact, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that people with high blood pressure learn how to use a blood pressure monitor at home.

Here's a handy step-by-step guide on how to use a blood pressure monitor.

Step 1: Select the right monitor for you.

Here are some key things to consider before making your purchase:

Wrist or Arm Cuff

Ideally, you should purchase a blood pressure monitor with an arm cuff. While wrist and finger monitors will do the job, an arm cuff is more accurate. To ensure a proper fit, first measure your upper arm and make sure the monitor has the correct cuff size. However, if you can't use an arm cuff because of a disability or your arm is too large to fit in one, a wrist monitor is the better option for you.

Manual or Automatic

An automatic or digital monitor is simple to use and automatically tightens the cuff and then releases the pressure before displaying your results. If you are self-monitoring, the automatic cuff is the best choice — but, if you have someone monitoring for you, a less expensive choice could be a manual monitor, or aneroid monitor. For this option, you squeeze a pump ball to inflate the cuff, manually release the pressure and listen with a stethoscope. You should pick the one that's easier to use for your situation and fits your budget.

Additional Features

Many home blood pressure monitors have additional features, including an irregular heartbeat detector, multiple user memories, multiple cuffs, a large-digit display and a data-averaging function. Before you make your purchase, take a look at the wide variety of options available to determine what will fit your needs

Step 2: Prepare for your reading.

Take the following steps before your reading to ensure a correct blood pressure measurement:

• Don't smoke and don't drink alcohol or caffeine 30 minutes before your reading.
• Don't exercise before your reading.
• Empty your bladder.
• Sit upright in a comfortable chair with your back supported (not on a sofa) and your feet planted on the ground.
• Rest a few minutes before you start so that you're calm before you slide on the cuff.

Step 3: Apply the cuff properly.

Whether using an arm cuff or wrist cuff, follow these steps for an accurate reading. Always use the same arm when taking your blood pressure.

• Apply your cuff to bare skin and not over clothing. Don't roll up your sleeves because it may interfere with your reading, if needed remove your arm from clothing.
• Place the upper arm cuff above the bend in your elbow.
• Make sure the cuff is secured snugly but not too tight.
• Place your arm on a surface or table close to your chair so that your arm or wrist rests comfortably at the same level as your heart.

Step 4: Take your measurement.

Follow the directions that come with your monitor on how to perform the reading.

• Don't talk during the process.
• Stay relaxed, and don't move.
• Take your measurement two times, allowing one to three minutes in between each measurement.
• Take your blood pressure at the same time every day, for as long as your doctor recommends.

Step 5: Record the results.

Take note of your results displayed on the monitor, which includes your systolic (upper number) and diastolic (lower number) readings. Some monitors have built-in memories that automatically store your readings. If not, use a log or notebook.

• Record all measurements in a notebook or log sheet if your monitor does not automatically capture the measurements.
• Be sure to include the date and time along with your measurement.
• Bring your monitor or your log to your next doctor's appointment.

Step 6: Care for your monitor.

As with any medical device, the better you take care of it, the better it will take care of you. Store it in a clean, dry space, and make sure the tubing is not twisted when you put it away.

To ensure accurate readings, have your doctor check the device once a year for accuracy.

In many cases, a home blood pressure monitor can help you take charge of your health. Only one-quarter of those with hypertension have their blood pressure under control. Using a home monitor lets you track whether lifestyle changes or medications are working so you can make adjustments that will benefit your health.

Following these steps will ensure you get accurate readings — and this way, you and your doctor can make decisions that will help you lead your healthiest life.