Have a rest before having your blood pressure checked

New research evidence shows that it's worthwhile sitting for ten minutes of rest before you or your doctor checks your blood pressure.

A research team from Italy have shown that the blood pressure readings can drop by as much as ten points depending on when the reading is taken.

Blood pressure readings were highest immediately after the patient sat down. Blood pressure readings were lowest when the patient had been seated for ten minutes. No further reductions in blood pressure happened after the first ten minutes.

Try it for yourself at home if you have a home blood pressure monitor - and remember about it the next time you visit your doctor for a blood pressure check up.