Accuracy is absolutely necessary when it comes to measuring blood pressure. A precise reading gives crucial insights into cardiovascular health and helps identify issues like hypertension or hypotension early on. Several factors can lead to false readings, including how you position your arm while getting a blood pressure check. Therefore, you must avoid common mistakes that can interfere with blood pressure accuracy and also understand the ideal arm placement for optimal results. Let's take a deeper look at all the necessary details.
Also Read: Why You Should Drink Water To Manage High Blood Pressure
What Is A Normal Blood Pressure Reading?
A normal blood pressure reading for most adults is 120/80 mmHg or lower, with a systolic pressure of less than 120 and a diastolic pressure of less than 80.
Systolic pressure is the maximum pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, whereas diastolic pressure is the minimum pressure when your heart rests between beats.
It is important to note that blood pressure levels can fluctuate due to various factors, including age, activity, emotions, medications, and body positioning. For those over 80, slight increases are normal as arteries naturally stiffen with age, making an ideal blood pressure under 150/90.
Readings between 120-129 mmHg systolic with a diastolic pressure under 80 indicate elevated blood pressure, while high blood pressure is defined as 130-139/80-89 mmHg for stage 1, and 140/90 or higher for stage 2.
A hypertensive crisis measures at 180/120 mmHg or above and requires immediate medical attention. Low blood pressure is characterised by readings below 89/59 mmHg, which can indicate hypotension.
Why Proper Arm Positioning Matters For Accurate Blood Pressure Reading
An April 2022 study published in the JAMA Internal Medicine highlighted how incorrect arm positioning during blood pressure measurement can lead to inaccurately high readings, potentially leading to misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment.
According to the researchers, when the arm is not supported at heart level, as recommended, blood pressure readings can be significantly overestimated. For instance, resting the arm on the lap increases systolic readings by an average of 3.9 mmHg and diastolic readings by 4.0 mmHg, while leaving the arm unsupported at the side inflates systolic readings by 6.5 mmHg and diastolic readings by 4.4 mmHg, the study noted.
Study authors noted that such inaccuracies could lead to overdiagnosis of hypertension, when, in fact, levels might be within a healthy range if measured correctly.
So, what are the things that should be kept in mind while checking blood pressure levels?
Also Read: These Simple Leg Exercises Can Help You Lower Your Blood Pressure Naturally
How To Position Your Arm For Accurate BP Reading
To get an accurate blood pressure reading, many factors need to be considered, including the positioning of your arm. One key tip is to position your arm in such a way that the cuff is at the level of your heart, which is about mid-chest. Other tips for an accurate blood pressure reading include:
- Sit in a comfortable chair with good back support and your feet flat on the ground.
- Rest your arm on a table at chest height.
- Place the cuff on your bare upper arm, one inch above the bend of your elbow; the cuff should not be too tight, and you should be able to fit two fingers under the top edge.
- Support your arm so that the cuff is at the same level as your heart.
- Sit quietly for 3-5 minutes before taking your blood pressure.
- Don't speak or be spoken to while taking your blood pressure.
Conclusion
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, making an accurate diagnosis crucial for preventing complications. To avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment, it’s essential to ensure accurate blood pressure readings. Always consult a doctor or qualified medical professional for accurate measurements, and follow all recommended guidelines, including proper arm positioning, to get precise results.