$Unique_ID{BRK01605}
$Pretitle{Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests, Circulatory System}
$Title{Inconsistent Blood Pressure Readings}
$Subject{blood pressure home monitor}
$Volume{P-3, G-3}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Inconsistent Blood Pressure Readings


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QUESTION:  Despite my best efforts, I keep getting different readings each
time I take my own blood pressure at home.  Do you have any ideas on what I am
doing wrong?  Please help.

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ANSWER:  There are many things patients and sometimes even doctors and nurses
do wrong when taking blood pressure.  The result can be inaccurate and
inconsistent readings.  First of all, you should make sure you are comfortable
before taking your blood pressure.  The American Heart Association recommends
that prior to taking the measurement, you relax in a quiet room for a half
hour.  During that time, avoid anxiety, exertion, eating or smoking, and be
sure your bladder is empty.  Wear loose fitting clothes so that the flow of
blood is unrestricted and don't cross your legs or fold your arms.  Try to
relax your arm muscles as much as possible as muscle tension can lead to
distorted blood pressure readings.
     Always take your blood pressure while you are in the same position,
whether it be sitting, standing or laying down, and use the same arm.  Make
sure you have the proper size cuff for your arm.  A cuff too narrow could give
you a false high reading, while one that is too wide will give you a false low
pressure reading.  Inflate the cuff rapidly (in 7 to 10 seconds) to minimize
trapping of venous blood--a common cause of false readings.
     Have a doctor or nurse show you the proper way to read your measurement.
Don't be shy, if you don't understand, ask again--until you get it right.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
