Measuring blood pressure is not a matter of routine or a simple procedure. The accuracy of reading on the pressure gauge can be impaired by some situations (talking to other people, incorrect position on a chair without back support). When arterial pressure is measured (in the office or at home) without preparation the values are usually lower than 10 mmHg to 15mmHg. Obtaining accurate readings will require the adoption of a few simple rules. If you have any doubts about the technical parameters or measurement results, talk to your doctor. If during the measurement at home you register a deviation in values during one day and the reason is not technical irregularities – then the cardiologist will suggest further diagnostic methods (for example a holter device) – to determine the true cause and possible determination of therapy.
Blood pressure measurement rules:
- Go to the toilet before measuring.
- Rest for 5 minutes before measuring.
- Do not talk to other people during the measurement.
- Sit with your back against the back of a chair.
- Place the gauge cuff on the skin of your hand (not over clothing).
- Rest your upper arm on a table or chair back so that the gauge cuff is flush with your heart.
- Do not keep your legs crossed.
- Rest your whole feet on the floor.
