How To Measure Blood Pressure
The heart pumps and supplies blood throughout the body. The force of this supply puts pressure on the arteries that work as a channel to deliver the blood to the organs. When this pressure increases and remains that way for a long time, it leads to the problem of high blood pressure or hypertension.
Individuals suffering from HBP have to measure their blood pressure regularly. If the BP remains higher than what is considered within the normal range, you should consult a physician who may prescribe medication, offer other treatment options, and suggest lifestyle changes. So, how to measure blood pressure?
There are several ways to measure your BP:
- Visit a pharmacy that offers a BP measurement service
- Visit a doctor’s clinic
- Use a home BP measurement device
With the first two, you only have to visit the pharmacy or clinic to get your blood pressure measured by a trained professional. You have to know how to measure blood pressure only if you plan to do it yourself at home. You should know some crucial aspects of BP measurement.
What Is Blood Pressure?
The heart pumps blood that reaches all body parts. This blood is supplied through blood vessels that form part of the body’s circulatory system. The heart contracts and relaxes to do this job. This process creates vibrations that can be detected and measured with a BP monitoring device.
A blood pressure reading consists of two values. The first number indicates systolic blood pressure, which is created when the heart muscle contracts. The second diastolic blood pressure is when the same muscle relaxes. Systolic blood pressure is always higher than diastolic blood pressure.
A blood pressure reading is always in a pair showing both these values. For example, the 117/80 mmHg reading indicates systolic blood pressure/diastolic blood pressure, while mmHg denotes the BP measurement unit per millimeter of mercury.
The Best Way to Measure BP
Taking 2-3 readings 1-2 minutes apart is essential – if both readings do not match, take the third reading. Calculate the averages of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure values to get your BP reading. You should mostly take the average of the second and third readings, discarding the first because it is usually inaccurate.
Take BP readings from both arms at the start, see which arm gives the higher reading, and from then onward, always take your BP reading from that arm. See which arm’s BP is measured by your doctor or nurse – you should take your BP reading only from that arm in the future.
Some tips on how to measure blood pressure accurately:
- Take at least five minutes of rest before taking the BP reading
- Keep a record of your BP readings
- Remain relaxed and avoid nervousness when your BP is measured
- Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or caffeine intake for 30 minutes before the BP reading
- Keep your back supported and straight, the cuff arm resting and at the chest level, feet flat on the floor, and the legs uncrossed
- Take the BP reading at the same time on all days
- Take at least 2-3 readings at a time and 1-2 minutes apart
- The device’s cuff should be touching the arm’s skin and not be over the clothes
- Take the reading on an empty bladder
- Avoid doing anything with your other hand while measuring BP
- Avoid talking during this process
Types of Devices for Measuring the Blood Pressure
There are two types of BP monitor devices – automatic and manual. The automatic devices still require you to wrap the cuff around your upper arm. Next, you simply press the button on the device, and it will do the rest of the job automatically, including inflating and deflating the cuff to tighten and loosen it. You will get the BP reading at the end of this process. You should still follow the other recommendations, like taking 2-3 readings at one-minute intervals.
The manual system with a sphygmomanometer requires proper handling. It has a cuff that is inflated manually by pumping a small rubber pump. A stethoscope may also be used during this process. It is better to receive help from another person during this process but you can do it on your own as well.
How to Measure Blood Pressure at Home?
First, read the manual of your BP monitor device and follow the instructions carefully. It will have some images to show how to wrap the cuff around the arm and sit properly during this process. Place the cuff correctly as instructed before taking the reading.
It is easy and convenient to take the reading with an automatic BP reading device. Blood pressure is also measured using a finger BP monitor, but it may not give an accurate reading. Make sure you have selected a device with the cuff with the right size arm circumference.
What to Do if Your BP Numbers are High?
Follow the instructions given by your physician in this matter. If you would like to consult an expert BP doctor, contact Dr. Shimon Storch – he will provide you with expert advice and guidance that you should follow after consulting your physician. Visit the Dr. Shimon Storch website to learn more.
