Which arm should you use to measure blood pressure at home?

CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Which arm should you use to measure blood pressure at home? Know the correct method

Many people who check blood pressure at home often wonder whether it should be measured in the right arm or the left arm. According to experts, it is not necessary to always consider only one arm as the correct option. In the beginning, it is considered better to check blood pressure in both arms, as there can be a difference in the readings.

According to guidelines from Britain’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, if there is a difference of more than 15 millimetres of mercury between the readings in the two arms, the test should be repeated. If the difference remains consistent, further measurements should be taken in the arm that shows the higher blood pressure.

For an accurate reading, rest for at least five minutes before taking the measurement. Avoid smoking, exercise and caffeine for 30 minutes before the test. Sit on a chair with your back supported, keep both feet on the floor, and support the arm being used for measurement at heart level. The cuff should be of the correct size and placed on a bare arm. Instead of relying on just one reading each time, it is better to take at least two readings about one minute apart and record the results. If a significant difference between the blood pressure readings in both arms persists, it is important to consult a doctor.

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