The systolic pressure is when your heart is beating and pumping blood. The diastolic pressure is when your heart is relaxing and refilling with blood. A normal blood pressure is less than 120/80. In chronic kidney disease, or CKD, the blood pressure goal is less than 130/80.

Checking your blood pressure is a simple test that you can do at home. Most pharmacies have in-store monitors and home blood pressure monitors. For best results, keep the hints below in mind.

• Always take your blood pressure at the same time of the day. Morning may be best.

• Sit so that you feel relaxed, and do not talk.

• Use the cuff on your bare arm.

• Place the cuff so it fits snugly on your upper arm. Some monitors are placed on the wrist.

• Follow all the instructions that come with your kit.

• Keep a record of all your blood pressure readings.

• Take your record and kit with you to healthcare provider visits. Ask your healthcare provider to check your blood pressure using your kit, and compare your readings with your providers.

Blood pressure medicines often play a large role in treatment. Your medicine will work best if it’s taken as directed. Be sure to do these things:

• Take your medicine at the same time each day.

• Find out if it should be taken with food.

• Call your healthcare provider if you think the medicine is making you dizzy or sick to your stomach.

• Do not skip doses.

• Do not stop taking your medicine unless your healthcare provider tells you to. Doing so may be harmful.

• Get regular urine and blood tests at least annually to watch for kidney disease or monitor existing kidney disease.

Many other factors can also contribute to kidney disease. Smoking, diabetes, dietary habits, lack of exercise, obesity, and other factors can contribute.