Do inaccurate BP readings leave you confused? Here’s what you can do

Blood pressure monitoring is the most important vitals to be checked by the doctors as soon as a patient comes for a check-up. Some of us who have become more conscious and responsible towards our health monitor the BP ourselves, to keep a track as well as to keep our physician informed, by using a digital BP monitor. Many times, we do come across people who still are not sure about the accuracy of digital BP monitors. The following tips will surely help to demystify those myths and misconceptions:

1. Sitting Posture:
   • Sit up straight
   • Ensure that the center of the arm cuff is at the same height as heart
   • Ideally, there should be a 25-30 cm distance between seat of the chair and table top
   • Never sit cross-legged or leaning forward
   • If the arm cuff is lower than the heart, you may need to support your arm with a cushion


2. Wrapping the arm cuff:
   • Ideally, wear short sleeves (a thin shirt is also OK)
   • Make sure the cuff is snug
   • Match the mark on the artery
   • Rest the elbow on the table
   • Never wrap cuff on the elbow
   • If you are using a wrist type BP monitor, please make sure the wrist is at the same level as heart
   • Do not support the wrist cuff with your other hand

Some more useful tips:

• Measure at the same time of day everyday
• No bathing, drinking alcohol or caffeine, smoking, exercising or eating 30 minutes before measurement.
• Use appropriate arm cuff of small, medium, large or wide size

Blood Pressure guidelines approved by ACC/AHA:

Now that you have a better understanding of measuring BP at home correctly, go ahead and try it now.