Is it true that your blood pressure reading should be the same on both hands? Medical science has a clear implication for that; learn more about it here.
Quick Summary
- Unequal blood pressure readings can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline.
- It is normal for people to have slightly different blood pressure readings on each arm, but a significant difference could indicate an underlying health condition like peripheral artery disease.
- To get accurate readings, it’s important to use the correct size cuff, rest before measuring, avoid caffeine and smoking, use a reliable device, measure in both arms, and repeat measurements several times.
Measuring blood pressure correctly and accurately is as important as choosing a clinically approved blood pressure monitor, as any discrepancy can lead to an incorrect diagnosis or treatment plan.
One common question when measuring blood pressure is whether the reading should be the same on both arms.
This question is particularly important for individuals who have conditions that affect blood pressure or those who are taking medication to manage hypertension.
In this article, we will understand the significance of measuring blood pressure in both arms and explore the reasons why it might differ between arms.
We will also look at the potential causes of differences in blood pressure readings and discuss the implications of such differences for diagnosis and treatment.
Without further ado, let us explore more about this topic.
Should Your Blood Pressure Reading Be The Same On Both Arms?
It is common for people to have slightly different blood pressure readings on each arm, and this is considered normal.
However, if there is a significant difference between readings taken on each arm, it could be a symptom of an underlying health condition, such as peripheral artery disease or an aneurysm.
In these cases, it is important to seek medical attention to assess the reason for the discrepancy and receive proper treatment.
It is important to note that the arm used for measuring blood pressure can also affect the reading.
If a person consistently has higher readings on one arm, they should use that arm for all future blood pressure measurements.
In general, it is recommended that blood pressure be taken in both arms at each doctor’s appointment to ensure accuracy and check for any disparities.
While a slight difference in readings between arms is normal, it is important to pay attention to any significant disparities and discuss them with a doctor.
Regular blood pressure monitoring and proper maintenance of home blood pressure monitors can help ensure accurate readings and detect any potential health issues early on.
What Are The Causes Of Different Blood Pressure Readings In Each Arm?
Blood pressure readings taken in each arm may differ due to various factors. The most prevalent cause is the presence of peripheral artery disease, a condition where the arteries in the limbs become narrow and restrict blood flow.
This can lead to different readings in each arm because one arm may have better blood flow than the other. Another possible cause of different readings is a difference in the position of the arms during the readings.
If one arm is higher than the other, it can lead to a difference in the readings. In addition, factors such as stress, anxiety, and physical activity can also impact blood pressure readings.
In some cases, the difference in readings between the arms may be negligible and not cause for concern.
Therefore it is important that you must learn how to use a blood pressure monitor correctly before taking routine readings.
However, in other cases, the difference can be significant and indicate underlying health issues such as cardiovascular disease.
If you notice a difference in blood pressure readings between your arms, it is important to discuss it with your doctor to determine the cause and receive proper treatment.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure in both arms can help track changes and detect any potential problems early on.
What Are The Health Implications Of Unequal Blood Pressure Readings?
This disparity can be a sign of blocked or narrow arteries in one arm, leading to reduced blood flow and increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
Additionally, unequal blood pressure readings can indicate heart or blood vessel issues, such as an aortic aneurysm or peripheral artery disease.
Having unequal blood pressure readings is also associated with an increased risk of developing other health conditions, such as kidney disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline.
This is because high blood pressure can have a systemic impact on the body, damaging blood vessels and increasing the risk of other health problems.
How To Get Accurate Blood Pressure Readings On Both Arms?
It is important to ensure you use your blood pressure monitor correctly so that you are getting the actual readings. Follow the below practices to make your reading accurate:
- Choose the correct size cuff: Make sure that you are using the correct size blood pressure cuff for your arm, as using a too-tight or too-loose cuff can affect the accuracy of your readings.
- Rest before measurement: Rest for at least five minutes before taking your blood pressure reading, as stress and physical activity can affect your readings.
- Avoid caffeine and smoking: Caffeine and nicotine can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure, so it’s best to avoid these substances before taking your readings.
- Use a reliable device: Make sure that you are using a reliable and well-maintained blood pressure monitor. Refer to reviews & articles to learn what to look for in blood pressure monitors.Â
- Measure in both arms: Take readings in both arms, and record the results. If you get different readings, mention it to your healthcare provider.
- Repeat measurements: Repeat the measurements on both arms several times to confirm the results.
Clinically Validated Blood Pressure Monitors You Can Consider
There are many blood pressure monitors on the market, but the CheckMe BP2, and QardioArm stand out for their accuracy and convenient features.
CheckMe BP2
The CheckMe BP2 is a compact and portable device that can be carried in a pocket or purse. It is easy to use, with one-touch operation and a large, easy-to-read display. The device also stores up to 50 readings, allowing users to track their blood pressure over the app.
Qardioarm
The QardioArm is a sleek, stylish device that connects to a smartphone app for easy tracking and analysis. The QardioArm is also FDA-approved and has received accolades from the American Heart Association.
Overall, these two at-home blood pressure monitors offer accurate readings, convenient features, and stylish designs. Make sure you purchase these medical devices from authentic sources to get clinically validated products.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is crucial to measure blood pressure correctly and accurately. While a slight difference in readings between arms is considered normal, any significant disparity should be discussed with a doctor.
Unequal blood pressure readings can indicate underlying health problems and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and other health conditions. Or sometimes, it can be a false reading from a faulty device.
To get accurate blood pressure readings on both arms, it is important to use the correct size cuff, rest before measurement, avoid caffeine and smoking, use a reliable device, measure in both arms, and repeat the measurements several times.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure in both arms can help track changes and detect any potential problems early on.
If you notice a difference in blood pressure readings between your arms, it is essential to discuss it with your doctor to determine the cause and receive proper treatment.
Robin Backlund is a dedicated journalist and a medical student who has written several articles and essays exposing the falseness and hollowness of online resources in the medical science niche.