New Delhi. Blood pressure problems have become very common these days. People often keep a blood pressure machine at home and check it regularly. But are the BP readings accurate at home?
This question arises because many people don’t know how to properly check their blood pressure at home. Most mistakes occur when applying the cuff. If the cuff is placed incorrectly or doesn’t fit correctly, the reading may be higher or lower than the actual blood pressure. So, the question is: what is the correct method, and where do mistakes usually occur? Dr. Kirti Sharma, in an Instagram post, explained the correct way to wear a cuff, which is crucial if you take your BP reading at home. So, let’s find out.
What is the correct way to apply the cuff when checking your BP?
The center of the cuff should be at heart level.
Dr. Kirti says that when you wear a cuff to check your blood pressure, the center of the cuff should be at heart level. If the cuff is tied too high or low, the BP reading may fluctuate slightly.
The artery arrow should be on the inner side of the arm.
The cuff has an arrow mark on it, called the artery arrow. The doctor advises that when putting on the cuff, ensure that this artery arrow is on the inner side of the arm. If it is in the wrong direction, the reading may be affected.
Place the bottom of the cuff two fingers above the elbow.
Dr. Kirti says that to ensure that the cuff is tied in the correct position, the bottom of the cuff should be approximately two fingers, or 2.5 cm, above your elbow.
Do not wear the cuff on thick clothing.
When checking your BP, avoid wearing the cuff on very thick clothing. Readings can be taken using thin cotton fabric. However, don’t bend it upwards to make it thicker; this can lead to inaccurate readings.
Relax your hand
You should relax your hand while checking your blood pressure. Doctors say that many patients clench their hands into a fist, which is not correct. Relax your hand and place it on a table at heart level. Your blood pressure machine should also be placed at this level. Monitor your blood pressure in a relaxed manner.
Don’t move or talk too much
Dr. Kirti says to sit comfortably and calmly while checking your blood pressure. You shouldn’t move or talk too much during this time. Note down every reading you get. You should note down the systolic, diastolic, pulse, and any other symptoms you experience, and then contact your doctor.
Always take two or three readings
Don’t panic at the first reading; sometimes it can be high. Dr. Kirti says you should note two to three readings. Don’t immediately note the second reading; take a two-minute break and then check again. The average of these readings will be your correct BP.
It’s important to keep these things in mind:
Do not drink tea, coffee, or eat food 30 minutes before measuring your BP.
Do not check your BP immediately after exercise or any physical activity.
Do not sit with your legs crossed.
Choose the correct cuff size and avoid tying the cuff over thick clothing.
Do not exert yourself while measuring your BP.
It’s important to seek medical advice if necessary.