(NewsNation) — Some parts of our health are daily habits: brushing teeth, showering, exercising. But what about the parts of us that are the most vital to our existence?
Your heart’s health doesn’t have to wait to be checked at a doctor’s office. Anyone experiencing pain or complications should see a doctor, but in general, there are methods to check your heart at home.
You can’t self-diagnose heart disease, but you can monitor symptoms or conditions that may be useful for your doctor to know.
How to test heart health at home
- Check your blood pressure. You will need a blood pressure monitor, which can be bought at a drug store for about $20. A healthy blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg.
- Measure your heart rate. You can do this by placing your index and middle finger on your inner wrist. Once you feel your pulse, count the number of taps you feel in 15 seconds. Multiply that by four to determine your heart rate per minute, according to Mayo Clinic. A normal pulse is 60 to 100 beats per minute.
- Monitor your results. Keep track of what you notice each time you take your blood pressure and heart rate. If you notice anything concerning, consult a doctor.