High blood pressure is a common health problem and people diagnosed with it are often at high risk. If left untreated, there are higher chances of heart attack or other diseases. While some people are good at taking care of their health some hardly get time to go to the hospital to keep track of their blood pressure. Worry not! With advancements in medical equipment, blood pressure monitors are the best solution.
Measuring blood pressure at home is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to measuring these machines. Even though a blood pressure machine gives accurate readings, the way you take your measurements plays a crucial role. Getting wrong readings for everything you take for your blood pressure? Well, the major reason behind this can be these mistakes.
Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Blood Pressure
To make sure you get accurate readings at home, here are some common mistakes you should avoid when measuring your blood pressure:
- Wrong Sitting Position
A common mistake to avoid when taking blood pressure is not sitting up straight and crossing your legs. You can use a table in the kitchen area, put your feet on the floor and your arm at heart level. Crossing your legs lightly compresses your leg arteries and limits blood flow. This, as a result, ends with showing a falsely high number. Additionally, one must also place the BP monitor on a level surface when taking blood pressure.
- Monitoring Over Your Clothing
Wondering why nurses and medical assistants ask you to remove your arm sleeves when taking your blood pressure? Well, that’s for a reason! It is the best way to obtain accurate readings. Taking your measurements while wearing multiple layers of clothing may result in a lower and less accurate reading.
Blood pressure monitors that are worn on the finger or wrist are much less accurate. Therefore, it is advised to use an electronic device that measures your upper arm. You can also choose an analogue cuff that is manually inflated.
- Full Bladder Testing
It may surprise you to learn that using the bathroom can have an impact on your blood pressure. A full bladder changes your blood pressure by causing the kidneys to react in a particular way. To get a more accurate reading, one must use the bathroom 20 to 30 minutes before.
- Wrong Cuff Size
Another common mistake to avoid when taking blood pressure is using the incorrect-sized cuff. It is important to use the correct size cuff to get accurate readings. A too large cuff results in a falsely decreased reading while a too tiny cuff results in a falsely increased reading.
Instead, the cuff’s breadth must cover three-quarters of the arm’s distance. Additionally, the cuff should be snug and not too tight as it may stop your blood flow. Besides, because blood pressure monitors are unique, remember to read the instructions thoroughly.
- Taking Blood Pressure at Different Times
Not taking your blood pressure at the same time is another mistake to avoid. To get accurate readings, you must measure your blood pressure one time each day and try to do it at the same time every day. When gathering data about your body, control as many variables as you can along with the time of the day.
You can also take your blood pressure twice in a row, to average the two readings. After your first measurement, try again in a minute and wait a minute more. If there is a difference between the two, do not hesitate to verify it a third time. If you keep getting wrong readings every time, it would be better to get your BP monitor checked by a professional or at your nearby healthcare store.
- Not Resting Before Taking Measurements
Before taking your blood pressure, you must rest for five minutes. Besides, try giving your body a rest for around 30 minutes. This means not engaging in any physical activity, smoking, consuming caffeine or exercising. Sit up straight, be quiet and stay calm.
Blood pressure readings can also be affected by movement and talking. While the BP monitor takes your reading, you must remain silent. Talking or fidgeting can result in false readings. Therefore, sit in a peaceful, cosy spot and unwind for a few minutes before taking your measurements.
- Not Keeping Track
Not keeping track of the numbers you get every time you measure your blood pressure is another mistake to avoid. Just like you write down phone numbers to access them later, you must also note down your BP readings.
Some blood pressure monitor comes with memory features, so keeping a record manually is helpful. Add the date and time as well as relevant notes like changes in medication or unusual situations. You never know when a trustworthy data set will be needed for comparison, be it after a month or years from now.
- Not Checking Machine’s Accuracy
Due to wear or tear, blood pressure monitors may become less accurate, over time. It is important to check the accuracy of your device from time to time. If you get inaccurate readings, think about having or replacing your device with a high-quality one.
You can also compare the measures at your doctor’s office with those at home. Besides, avoid switching your measurement techniques and use the same arm and cuff sizes each time. For changes in readings, never hesitate to consult your healthcare provider.
Maintain Consistency of Your Readings and Health
We at MedGuard are your best partners when it comes to blood pressure monitors. We are renowned for innovation and user-friendly design. To make sure you get accurate readings, our products undergo rigorous testing before reaching you. We have a huge selection of blood pressure monitors such as wireless blood pressure monitors, digital wrist BP monitors and more. Our products are of high quality and accurate for professional and home use. For orders, queries or personalised guidance, you can contact our management and support team.