You’ve Been Measuring Your Blood Pressure All Wrong – Here’s the Right Way to Do It
High BP Norms Revised by AHA: Below 120/80 mm Hg Is the New Normal as per Cardiologist
Keeping track of your blood pressure is an easy and effective way to stay on top of your heart health. But did you know that a small mistake in how you take your reading can change the results by more than 10%? That’s enough to miss signs of high blood pressure or lead to the wrong medication. Here’s a guide to doing it correctly.
Step 1
To get an accurate reading, you should sit in a chair with your back straight and both feet flat on the floor. Your arm should rest on a surface so that your elbow is at the same level as your heart. Try to stay in this position throughout the reading.
Step 2
It’s good to check your blood pressure in both arms, at least once. Usually, the right arm shows a slightly higher number. If the difference is more than 10 points between arms, it could mean there’s plaque buildup in your arteries. In that case, talk to your doctor.
Things to Do Before and During the Reading
For the most accurate result, avoid drinking tea, coffee, or any other caffeinated drinks, and don’t smoke for at least 30 minutes before taking your reading. Sit quietly for five minutes before you start. The cuff should be wrapped around your bare upper arm, not over clothes, and it should cover at least 80% of the arm. Make sure not to talk while your blood pressure is being measured.
Take two readings with a short break in between. If the numbers are more than five points apart, it’s a good idea to take a third reading.
When to Check in Different Positions
Sometimes, people feel dizzy when standing up. If that happens to you, it’s helpful to take your blood pressure while sitting and then again while standing to see if there’s a drop in numbers.
What the Numbers Mean
Blood pressure is measured using two numbers. Here’s how to understand them:
- Normal: Less than 120/80
- Elevated: Between 120/80 and 129/79
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130/80 to 139/89
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140/90 and above
Your blood pressure changes throughout the day, so one high reading doesn’t mean you have high blood pressure. Doctors usually confirm it over multiple visits or by having you check it at home.
