Some experts recommend you use your left arm; others suggest you test both arms. But while you’re first adjusting to self-testing, use the left arm if you’re right-handed, or vice versa. [4] X Research source
Cuff hypertension can also occur if the cuff is too narrow or too short relative to your arm. [6] X Research source
Do not hold the head of the stethoscope with your thumb — your thumb has its own pulse and this will confuse you while you try to obtain a reading. A good method is to hold the head of the stethoscope in place with your index and middle fingers. This way, you should not hear a thumping sound until you have begun to inflate the cuff.
Make sure there is adequate light and you can see the needle and pressure markings well before you begin to test. Sometimes the gauge is attached to the rubber bulb, in which case this step does not apply.
It is also important to avoid over-tightening the valve, otherwise you will open it too far and release the air too quickly.
Releasing the valve while you hold the stethoscope can be a little tricky. Try releasing the valve with the hand on your cuff arm, while holding the stethoscope with your free arm. If there is someone nearby, ask him to assist you. An additional pair of hands can make the process much easier.
The systolic number represents the pressure your blood flow exerts on the walls of an artery after the heart beats or contracts. It is the higher number of the two blood pressure readings, and when blood pressure is written down, it appears at the top. [10] X Trustworthy Source American Heart Association Leading nonprofit that funds medical research and public education Go to source The clinical name for the thumping sounds your hear is “Korotkoff sounds. “[11] X Research source
The diastolic number represents the pressure your blood flow exerts on the walls of an artery when your heart relaxes between contractions. It is the lower number of the two blood pressure readings, and when blood pressure is written down, it appears at the bottom. [13] X Research source
Just don’t do it too much (more than twice) as this can affect accuracy. Alternatively, you can switch the cuff to the other arm and repeat the process again.
For the most accurate results, check your blood pressure a second time, five to ten minutes after the first go. It may also be a good idea to use your other arm for the second reading, especially if your first reading was abnormal.
Normal blood pressure: Systolic number of less than 120 and diastolic number of less than 80. Prehypertension: Systolic number between 120 and 139, diastolic number between 80 and 89. Stage 1 Hypertension: Systolic number between 140 and 159, diastolic number between 90 and 99. Stage 2 Hypertension: Systolic number higher than 160 and diastolic number higher than 100. Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic number higher than 180 and diastolic number higher than 110. [15] X Trustworthy Source American Heart Association Leading nonprofit that funds medical research and public education Go to source
However, if you are experiencing symptoms of dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, trouble concentrating, cold and clammy skin, fast and shallow breathing, dehydration, nausea, blurred vision and/or fatigue, it is advisable that you see a doctor right away, as your low blood pressure may be the result of an underlying condition, which could be serious or cause serious complications. . [17] X Trustworthy Source American Heart Association Leading nonprofit that funds medical research and public education Go to source
If you take your blood pressure after exercising, after eating salty foods, drinking coffee, smoking, or during a period of high stress, your blood pressure might be uncharacteristically high. If the blood pressure cuff was too loose or too tight on your arm or too large or too small for your size, the readings could be inaccurate. As a result, you shouldn’t worry too much about one-off readings, especially if your blood pressure is back to normal the next time you check it. However, if your blood pressure is consistently at or higher than 140/90 mm Hg, you may want to consult with a doctor who can put you on a treatment plan, which usually involves a combination of healthy eating and exercise. [18] X Research source Medications may also be considered if lifestyle changes don’t help, your blood pressure is very high, or you have risk factors such as diabetes or heart disease. If you get a systolic reading of 180 or higher, or a diastolic reading of 110 or higher, wait a few minutes then check your blood pressure again. If it is still at that level, you need to contact emergency medical services immediately, as you may be suffering from a hypertensive crisis. [15] X Trustworthy Source American Heart Association Leading nonprofit that funds medical research and public education Go to source
