Today, to measure a blood pressure at home is not a problem. Tere are semiautomatic and automatic devices, and to use them is simple; it does not require special knowledge and skills. So, how do you measure blood pressure to get accurate data?

But no matter with what kind of instrument you use to measure the pressure, you need to follow some rules so that you get the most accurate data. It is especially important to follow these rules.  Most often, blood pressure is measured whilst  sitting, but there are no contraindications to measure it while lying down or standing up.

It is necessary to perform the measurements in a calm quiet environment. By measuring the blood pressure while sitting, the back should be supported, since any load on the spine causes an increase in pressure. Sit on a straight-backed chair, at a table with his hand should be positioned so that the average point of the shoulder was at heart level. In this case, you get the most accurate measurement results.

A pressure measurement is best before a meal or 1 hour after. Before measuring the pressure in 3 minutes, exclude reception of coffee, strong tea, smoking, physical activity and exposure to cold. Before measuring the pressure necessary to relax and rest at least 5 minutes in that position, which will be measured (to sit or lie down). If you sit, relax the entire muscles do not cross your legs.

If the pressure measurement will be done lying down, the hand should be placed along the line of the body and lift the slug. For convenience, put under the elbow and shoulder a small pillow. During the measurement, do not talk and do not make any sudden movements. If you need to perform a series of measurements, each time change the original position. Observe the interval between measurements (recommended 1 minute, but not less than 15 seconds). Loosen the collar between the measurements.

Cuff applied to the arm with no clothes (not roll up your sleeve). Cuff, worn on clothing, gives greater measurement error. Place the cuff above the antecubital fossa at 2-2.5 cm, and the sensor should be just above the pulsating artery. You should not strongly tight and very weakly impose the cuff, between it and the surface must go hand finger. Imposed tight cuff overestimate the measurement result. Inflate the cuff to 20-30 units higher than expected pressure.

To control hypertension, a person should be able to measure his or her own blood pressure. But it requires to follow some simple rules on how to measure blood pressure to get accurate data.

What should be done before blood pressure measurement?

It is necessary to relax, without changing the body position.
Set the cuff at heart.
The air should emit little. Do not forget that the sound and the hand on which you are testing may not be the same.
Indications may be incorrect, or if the cord phonendoscope bent or kinked tonometer.

Should not do before blood pressure measurement?

Overwork, both physically and nervously.
Within half an hour before the measurement can not smoke.
Do not drink tea, coffee and other liquids.
Do not eat.

Prior to the first tone sounds, indicating the systolic blood pressure, can be observed other distracting sounds. If the first tone was not audible, deflate the air from the cuff and begin anew. For more specific indications after a while, measure blood pressure again. The pressure that is smaller will be the right one. It is best to measure blood pressure on one and on the other hand. Difference between them is possible, as long as it was not more than 15 mm Hg. of Art. Because this may be the herald of the disease

The most accurate reading remove mercury sphygmomanometers. Next come the membranes. The most convenient Sphygmomanometers – Electronic, but their testimony is the most inaccurate.

So, as long as you know how to measure blood pressure to get accurate data, will help you in many difficult situations, it will help you avoid many complications and even prevent a heart attack, in some cases. It is recommended that even one person from the family knew the technique to measure the blood pressure. Remember, to get correct data, you have to follow certain rules, listed above.

Many people like tinkering and do housework with their hands. You can also go up and the measurement of blood pressure. Let’s try to do it independently.

Usually the doctor checks the pressure every two years, possibly more often if you have it increased. If you learn how to measure your blood pressure yourself, you will be able to watch him, and between visits to the doctor.

In addition, you can inform your doctor important information about your blood pressure and the effectiveness of drugs. On the other hand, you may able to detect dangerous rises or falls in blood pressure.
Ask your doctor how often you should measure your blood pressure and what to do if it goes above or below the recommended.

The choice of the tonometer

Consult your doctor, what apparatus for measuring blood pressure is suitable for you. Blood pressure monitors come in two types:

Actuated (mechanical) tonometers. They are cheaper. They are equipped with a stethoscope and a cuff that is inflated by compressed rubber bulb. Not all patients can inflate the cuff, to catch the heartbeat and to determine the pressure, it requires a certain skill.

Oscillometric Sphygmomanometers (they are the same – digital, electronic, automatic). These devices have a screen that displays the measurement result. Stethoscope built into the device. In some models, the cuff is inflated automatically. Electronic devices operate on batteries and easily broken. They are also more expensive than mechanical, but it is much easier for people with arthritis or who have hearing or vision.

Purchase machines that measure blood pressure at the wrist or finger, are not worth it, as derived from their data using much less accurate.

Attention, we start!

First, ask your doctor or nurse to show you how to properly measure your blood pressure. Then measure the pressure in the presence of them, make sure you do everything right. So you can also make sure the device.

So, how to measure blood pressure at home:

Do not drink alcohol or coffee or smoke for at least 30 minutes before taking measurements.
Sit comfortably, feet on the floor, do not cast your feet one on another.
Sit quietly three – five minutes.
Go to the toilet. A full bladder can affect the measurement results.
When you are ready, place your hand on the table, palm up.

How to measure blood pressure information coming soon!