How does blood pressure cuff size affect measurement accuracy. What are the consequences of using an ill-fitting cuff. Can incorrect cuff size lead to misdiagnosis of hypertension. Why is proper cuff sizing crucial for blood pressure monitoring.

The Importance of Proper Blood Pressure Cuff Sizing

Blood pressure measurements are a crucial aspect of healthcare, but many people are unaware that the size of the blood pressure cuff can significantly impact the accuracy of these readings. Recent research has highlighted the importance of using appropriately sized cuffs to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment of hypertension.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that the length of the bladder wrapping around a patient’s upper arm should be 75 to 100 percent of their arm circumference. This guideline aims to provide a snug but not excessively tight fit, which is essential for accurate measurements.

How Incorrect Cuff Size Affects Blood Pressure Readings

A study presented at the AHA’s Epidemiology, Prevention, Lifestyle & Cardiometabolic Health Conference 2022 revealed significant discrepancies in blood pressure readings when using incorrectly sized cuffs. The research compared measurements taken with a “regular” adult-size cuff to those taken with appropriately sized cuffs for 165 adults.

Key findings from the study include:

• For people with obesity requiring an extra-large cuff, using a regular-sized cuff increased systolic blood pressure readings by an average of 19.7 mmHg and diastolic readings by 4.8 mmHg.
• 39% of people with obesity were misdiagnosed with hypertension due to the use of an incorrectly sized cuff.
• For individuals requiring a small cuff, using a regular-sized cuff decreased systolic readings by an average of 3.8 mmHg and diastolic readings by 1.5 mmHg.
• 22% of cases of hypertension went undetected in people needing a smaller cuff when measured with a regular-sized cuff.

The Impact of Misdiagnosis on Patient Health

Incorrect blood pressure measurements can have serious consequences for patient health. Overestimation of blood pressure may lead to unnecessary medication and treatment, while underestimation can result in undiagnosed hypertension, leaving patients at risk for cardiovascular complications.

Dr. Tammy Brady, the lead author of the study and medical director of the pediatric hypertension program at Johns Hopkins University, emphasizes that “Accurate blood pressure measurement depends on proper patient preparation, positioning, measurement technique, and individualized selection of cuff size.”

Understanding Hypertension and Its Prevalence

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects nearly half of U.S. adults according to the American Heart Association. The condition is defined as:

• Systolic blood pressure (top number) of at least 130 mmHg, or
• Diastolic blood pressure (bottom number) of at least 80 mmHg

Given the high prevalence of hypertension, accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Choosing the Right Blood Pressure Cuff Size

To ensure accurate blood pressure measurements, it’s essential to use a properly sized cuff. Here are some guidelines for selecting the correct cuff size:

1. Measure the circumference of the middle of your upper arm.
2. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate cuff size based on your arm circumference.
3. For home blood pressure monitors, choose a device with a cuff that fits your arm size.

Dr. Brady advises, “If a cuff pops off when being inflated or if the device provides multiple error messages while you’re trying to obtain a blood pressure, that might be a sign the cuff is too small.”

The Role of Healthcare Providers in Ensuring Accurate Measurements

Healthcare providers play a crucial role in ensuring accurate blood pressure measurements. They should:

• Measure patients’ arm circumferences to determine the appropriate cuff size
• Have a range of cuff sizes available in their practice
• Educate patients about the importance of proper cuff sizing
• Regularly calibrate and maintain blood pressure measurement devices

By taking these steps, healthcare providers can significantly improve the accuracy of blood pressure readings and enhance patient care.

Home Blood Pressure Monitoring: Tips for Accuracy

For individuals monitoring their blood pressure at home, following these guidelines can help ensure accurate readings:

1. Choose a monitor with a cuff that fits your arm size properly
2. Take measurements at the same time each day, preferably in the morning and evening
3. Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking for at least 30 minutes before measuring
4. Sit quietly for 5 minutes before taking a reading
5. Position your arm at heart level during measurement
6. Take multiple readings and record the results

By following these steps, individuals can obtain more reliable blood pressure measurements at home and provide valuable information to their healthcare providers.

Common Signs of an Ill-Fitting Blood Pressure Cuff

Recognizing the signs of an ill-fitting blood pressure cuff is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. Here are some indicators that the cuff may not be the right size:

• The cuff feels uncomfortably tight or loose on the arm
• The cuff leaves marks or indentations on the skin after removal
• The cuff doesn’t stay in place during inflation
• The device displays frequent error messages or inconsistent readings
• There’s a significant discrepancy between readings taken at home and in the clinical setting

If any of these signs are present, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the correct cuff size is being used.

The Future of Blood Pressure Measurement Technology

As awareness of the importance of cuff sizing grows, researchers and medical device manufacturers are working on innovative solutions to address this issue. Some emerging technologies include:

• Adjustable cuffs that can automatically adapt to different arm sizes
• Wearable devices that continuously monitor blood pressure without a traditional cuff
• Smartphone apps that can estimate blood pressure using optical sensors
• AI-powered systems that can detect and correct for measurement errors

While these technologies show promise, it’s important to note that they are still in development and may not yet be as accurate as traditional methods. For now, using a properly sized traditional cuff remains the most reliable method for blood pressure measurement.

The Economic Impact of Accurate Blood Pressure Measurements

Improving the accuracy of blood pressure measurements through proper cuff sizing can have significant economic implications for healthcare systems and patients. Consider the following potential benefits:

• Reduced healthcare costs associated with unnecessary treatments for misdiagnosed hypertension
• Improved early detection and management of hypertension, potentially reducing long-term complications and associated costs
• Decreased burden on healthcare resources by minimizing follow-up visits for inaccurate readings
• Enhanced efficiency in clinical trials and research studies related to hypertension and cardiovascular health

By investing in proper cuff sizing and education, healthcare systems can potentially realize substantial cost savings while improving patient outcomes.

Public Health Initiatives for Improved Blood Pressure Measurement

Given the widespread impact of hypertension on public health, several initiatives are being implemented to improve the accuracy of blood pressure measurements:

1. Educational campaigns for healthcare providers and patients about proper cuff sizing
2. Implementation of standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement in clinical settings
3. Integration of cuff size assessment into electronic health records
4. Community outreach programs to provide access to properly sized blood pressure cuffs
5. Collaboration between medical device manufacturers and healthcare organizations to improve cuff design and availability

These initiatives aim to raise awareness about the importance of cuff sizing and improve the overall quality of hypertension diagnosis and management.

The Role of Patient Advocacy in Promoting Accurate Blood Pressure Measurement

Patient advocacy groups play a crucial role in promoting awareness and driving change in healthcare practices. In the context of blood pressure measurement, these organizations can:

• Educate patients about their rights to request properly sized cuffs
• Advocate for policies that ensure availability of various cuff sizes in healthcare settings
• Collaborate with medical professionals to develop patient-friendly resources on proper blood pressure measurement techniques
• Participate in research initiatives to further understand the impact of cuff sizing on patient outcomes
• Share personal stories to highlight the importance of accurate blood pressure measurements

By empowering patients to be active participants in their healthcare, these advocacy efforts can contribute significantly to improving the accuracy of blood pressure measurements and overall cardiovascular health outcomes.

Global Perspectives on Blood Pressure Cuff Sizing

While the importance of proper cuff sizing is gaining recognition in many developed countries, it remains a challenge in various parts of the world. Consider the following global aspects:

• Variations in average arm circumferences across different populations and ethnicities
• Limited availability of diverse cuff sizes in resource-constrained healthcare settings
• Differences in healthcare provider training and awareness regarding cuff sizing across countries
• Cultural factors that may influence patient compliance with proper measurement techniques
• Economic barriers to implementing standardized cuff sizing protocols in developing nations

Addressing these global challenges requires international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and targeted interventions tailored to local contexts.

Integrating Cuff Size Awareness into Medical Education

To ensure long-term improvement in blood pressure measurement accuracy, it’s crucial to integrate cuff size awareness into medical education curricula. This can be achieved through:

1. Incorporating practical training on cuff sizing into medical and nursing school programs
2. Developing continuing education modules for practicing healthcare providers
3. Creating simulation exercises that demonstrate the impact of incorrect cuff sizing
4. Encouraging research projects focused on blood pressure measurement techniques
5. Collaborating with professional medical associations to update guidelines and best practices

By emphasizing the importance of proper cuff sizing early in healthcare professionals’ careers, we can create a new generation of practitioners who prioritize accurate blood pressure measurements.

The Intersection of Technology and Blood Pressure Measurement

As technology continues to advance, new opportunities arise for improving blood pressure measurement accuracy. Some innovative approaches include:

• Machine learning algorithms that can detect and correct for measurement errors in real-time
• Telemedicine platforms that guide patients through proper cuff sizing and measurement techniques
• 3D printing technology for creating custom-fit blood pressure cuffs
• Integration of blood pressure monitoring with other health tracking devices and apps
• Virtual reality training modules for healthcare providers to practice proper cuff sizing

While these technological advancements hold promise, it’s important to balance innovation with rigorous validation to ensure reliability and accuracy in clinical practice.

The Psychological Impact of Blood Pressure Measurement Accuracy

The accuracy of blood pressure measurements can have significant psychological effects on patients. Consider the following aspects:

• Anxiety and stress associated with potentially inaccurate high blood pressure readings
• False sense of security from erroneously low readings leading to neglect of lifestyle changes
• Impact on patient trust in healthcare providers and the medical system
• Psychological burden of unnecessary medication regimens due to misdiagnosis
• Empowerment and motivation derived from accurate tracking of blood pressure improvements

Recognizing these psychological factors underscores the importance of accurate measurements not just for physical health, but also for patients’ mental well-being and engagement in their healthcare journey.

Collaborative Approaches to Improving Blood Pressure Measurement Accuracy

Addressing the challenge of blood pressure cuff sizing requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem. Key collaborative approaches include:

1. Partnerships between medical device manufacturers and healthcare providers to develop and implement improved cuff designs
2. Collaboration between public health agencies and community organizations to conduct outreach and education programs
3. Joint research initiatives between academic institutions and healthcare systems to study the long-term impact of accurate measurements
4. Cooperation between patient advocacy groups and policymakers to drive regulatory changes supporting proper cuff sizing
5. International collaborations to address global disparities in blood pressure measurement practices

By fostering these collaborative relationships, we can create a comprehensive approach to improving blood pressure measurement accuracy and, ultimately, enhance cardiovascular health outcomes worldwide.

Why Blood Pressure Cuff Size Matters

People who get their blood pressure checked with a cuff that’s much too tight or too loose on their upper arm won’t get an accurate reading — and may get misdiagnosed as a result.

By Lisa Rapaport

March 11, 2022

Everyday Health Archive

Fact-Checked

Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association.Getty Images

Blood pressure cuffs really aren’t one-size-fits-all. To the contrary, a recent study suggests that people who get their blood pressure checked with a cuff that’s the wrong size for their arm circumference may have undetected hypertension or get incorrectly diagnosed with this condition.

Like people, blood pressure cuffs come in many sizes. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that the length of the bladder that wraps around patients’ upper arms be 75 to 100 percent of their arm circumference for a snug but not excessively tight fit. Cuffs for a “regular” size adult might get accurate readings for a person with an arm circumference of around 27 to 34 inches, according to the AHA, but it would be inaccurate for somebody with a much smaller or larger size.

Many previous studies have noted inaccurate blood pressure readings made with ill-fitting manual blood pressure cuffs that clinicians pump by hand to compress around the upper arm, but new research presented at the AHA’s Epidemiology, Prevention, Lifestyle & Cardiometabolic Health Conference 2022 suggests that inaccuracies also occur with newer, automated blood pressure monitors.

“Accurate blood pressure measurement depends on proper patient preparation, positioning, measurement technique, and individualized selection of cuff size,” says Tammy Brady, MD, PhD, the lead author of the new study and the medical director of the pediatric hypertension program at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.

Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, according to the AHA. This is defined by the AHA as a systolic blood pressure (the “top number,” which measures the pressure blood exerts against artery walls when the heart beats) of at least 130 mmHg (millimeters of mercury), or a diastolic blood pressure (the “bottom number,” which measures the pressure blood exerts in the arteries when the heart rests between beats) of at least 80 mmHg.

For the study, researchers compared blood pressure readings for 165 adults who had separate measurements done with both a “regular” adult-size cuff and with a cuff appropriately sized for their arm circumference.

Overall, 30 percent of the study participants had hypertension, according to their systolic blood pressure.

Slightly more than two in five people in the study had obesity. When these people who required an extra-large blood pressure cuff had measurements done with a “regular” adult size cuff, this inaccurately increased their systolic blood pressure readings by an average of 19.7 mmHg and their diastolic blood pressure readings by an average of 4. 8 mmHg.

In 39 percent of these cases, people with obesity were misdiagnosed with hypertension as a result.

Similarly, people who needed a “small” blood pressure cuff had hypertension that went undetected in 22 percent of cases when their measurements were done with a “regular” adult size cuff. When these people who needed a smaller cuff had measurements with a “regular” cuff, this inaccurately decreased their systolic blood pressure readings by an average of 3.8 mmHg and their diastolic blood pressure readings by an average 1.5 mmHg.

“The degree of under- or overestimation depends on the size discrepancy of the cuff to the size of the arm, and can be substantial,” says Jordana Cohen, MD, an assistant professor of medicine and epidemiology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia, who wasn’t involved in the new study.

To avoid this problem and get your blood pressure checked with a cuff that fits, you should ask your provider to measure the circumference of the middle of your upper arm, Dr. Brady advises. You should also do this yourself before you buy a blood pressure monitor for home use.

“If a cuff pops off when being inflated or if the device provides multiple error messages while you’re trying to obtain a blood pressure, that might be a sign the cuff is too small,” Brady says.

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New Drug May Lower Blood Pressure In Hard-to-Treat Patients

The experimental drug baxdrostat may help hypertension patients who can’t sufficiently reduce their blood pressure with other medications.

By Lisa Rapaport

November 11, 2022

Fact-Checked

Patients with excessive aldosterone levels in the blood are resistant to treatment with commonly used drugs for hypertension.
Canva

Some people with uncontrolled high blood pressure who can’t manage the condition effectively with typical multidrug treatment regimens might one day achieve this goal with a single pill, a new study suggests.

The early-stage study included 248 people with what’s known as treatment-resistant hypertension, who had unhealthy blood pressure levels despite taking at least three different medications to manage the condition. Participants were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or a 0. 5-, 1-, or 2-milligram (mg) dose of the experimental drug baxdrostat.

After 12 weeks of treatment, patients on the highest baxdrostat dose saw their systolic blood pressure — the “top number” that shows how much pressure blood exerts against artery walls when the heart beats — drop by an average of 20 points, according to study results published in the The New England Journal of Medicine.

“The results of this first-of-its-kind drug are exciting, although more testing is required before we can draw comparisons with any existing medications,” co-senior study author Morris Brown, MD, a professor of endocrine hypertension at Queen Mary University of London, said in a statement.

“But baxdrostat could potentially offer hope to many people who do not respond to traditional hypertension treatment,” Dr. Brown added.

Baxdrostat also worked at lower doses, although with less dramatic results. Systolic blood pressure declined by an average of 17.5 points with the 1 mg dose and by about 12 points on average with the 0. 5 mg dose.

At the start of the study, most patients had average systolic blood pressure levels over 140 millimeters of mercury (mmHg), which is classified as stage 2 hypertension by the American Heart Association (AHA). Doctors often prescribe a combination of several different blood pressure medications and lifestyle changes like improved eating and exercise habits.

By the end, many of the patients on baxdrostat reduced their systolic blood pressure levels enough to be classified with either stage 1 hypertension — a range from 130 mmHg to 139 mmHg.

A total of 44 percent of patients in the study experienced side effects, most of which were mild. The most common side effects, occurring in at least 5 percent of patients, were urinary tract infections, elevated potassium levels, headache, and fatigue. Eight patients experienced serious side effects, including dangerously low blood pressure, abnormally low sodium levels, and unusually high potassium levels.

Baxdrostat works by preventing the body from making aldosterone, a hormone that can cause salt to be retained in the body, driving up blood pressure. Patients with excessive aldosterone levels in the blood are resistant to treatment with the commonly used drugs for hypertension. Baxdrostat suppressed blood and urine levels of aldosterone.

The study results were from the second of three phases of clinical trials typically required for U.S. regulatory approval. CinCor Pharma supported the trial and employed several researchers involved in the study.

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Hypertension: degrees, symptoms and causes of high blood pressure

However, if it so happens that you are interested in the topic of health and hypertension in particular, then this publication may be useful to you, from it you will learn:

• What is high blood pressure?
• How can it harm your health?
• How do you know if you have hypertension?
• How do you self-assess your risk of complications?
• What to do next? How can a doctor help you? What can you do yourself?

First of all, this information will be of interest:

• Those who already have high blood pressure
• Those whose loved ones suffer from high blood pressure
• Those who want to know in advance how to take care of their health now in order to prevent disease in the future.

What is blood pressure?

Arterial pressure (BP) is the force with which blood presses against the walls of blood vessels from the inside. BP is systolic and diastolic. Systolic is the pressure of blood in the arteries during the contraction of the heart. This is “upper pressure”. Diastolic is the pressure of blood in the arteries when the heart relaxes. This is the “down” pressure. If you connect the pump to an inflated bicycle chamber and imagine that the pump is the heart, and the chamber is the vessels, then the pressure in the chamber, which will be at the moment the pump pumps air, will be systolic. And diastolic pressure is the pressure with which air presses on the walls of the chamber (blood presses on the walls of the vessels) while the pump is not operating. The level of diastolic pressure will depend on the elasticity of the chamber walls.

Normally, there is a certain corridor, and if the indicators do not go beyond it, we consider that the person’s pressure is normal. The boundaries of this corridor: not higher than 140/90 and not lower than 90/60. High blood pressure is more dangerous than low blood pressure. And if there are serious concomitant diseases, for example, diabetes, then the upper limit of the corridor goes down – 130/80 pressure should be lower than 140/90. Hypertension is a chronic disease in which there are periodic or persistent rises in blood pressure above 140/90. At the same time, this does not mean that every person who has ever had high blood pressure has hypertension. Short-term and slight fluctuations in blood pressure can be observed in different situations. For example, an increase in blood pressure is noted in the morning after waking up, with excitement, stress, physical activity, and smoking.

A short-term decrease in blood pressure is observed at rest, during sleep. Our body is threatened by a prolonged increase in blood pressure. Many factors influence the level of blood pressure. It depends on the volume of blood pushed out by the heart into the vessels, on the frequency and strength of the contractions of the heart and the elasticity of the vessels. If you draw analogies with a regular water hose for water, then you can increase the pressure in it by pinching a certain section of the hose. But you can also increase the pressure by opening the faucet harder and increasing the flow of water.

Arterial hypertension is a widespread disease, it occurs in 40% of the population. It is dangerous because it increases the load on the heart and causes vascular stiffness. Over time, high pressure injures the vascular wall, causing damage to blood vessels, cholesterol begins to be deposited in the vessel wall, which leads to rapid aging of blood vessels, their narrowing. Vessels lose their elasticity, become fragile and brittle. This increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, the 1st and 3rd leading causes of death. Also, the thickening of the walls of blood vessels causes a slowdown or cessation of the flow of oxygen-rich blood, resulting in damage to vital organs. As a result of these changes, complications of hypertension develop, which are dangerous.

Complications are acute, associated with a sharp jump in pressure: for example, a hypertensive crisis, stroke, heart attack, aortic rupture. Chronic complications develop gradually against the background of a long course of hypertension for decades, they arise as a result of atherosclerosis damage to small vessels that feed vital organs, as a result, these organs are chronically deprived of blood supply, rich in oxygen and nutrients, and eventually begin to function worse.

These organs are called target organs:

• The first sign of kidney damage is the appearance of protein in the urine, then kidney function worsens
• Visual impairment
• The walls of the heart thicken, its relaxation and filling with blood becomes more difficult, angina pectoris appears, the pumping function of the heart worsens, heart failure develops
• Damage to the walls of the aorta
• The work of the brain is disturbed, which is manifested by a decrease in memory, quick wits, and attention.

In 95% of cases, the specific cause of the increase in pressure cannot be established – this is the result of the influence of a complex of factors – in this case, hypertension is an independent disease – and is called Hypertension. In 5% of cases, the cause can be identified and (often, but not always) eliminated – in this case, hypertension is a symptom of another disease.

The main organ involved in the regulation of pressure is the kidney. Problems with the vessels of the kidneys, the kidneys themselves or the adrenal glands are the bulk of symptomatic hypertension. Also, symptomatic hypertension can be caused by changes in the thyroid gland, congenital and acquired anomalies of blood vessels and the heart.

If you are over fifty and have just woken up and nothing hurts, then you have already died. So say the English scientists. We disagree with colleagues. This is what hypertension looks like. Most often, high blood pressure goes unnoticed, without showing itself. You can find out about it by chance at a physical examination. Therefore, it is important to undergo medical examination in a timely manner.

The insidiousness of hypertension lies in the fact that most people, even with very high blood pressure numbers of 180/100 and above, do not develop any symptoms.

The same people who feel increased pressure are concerned:

• Throbbing headaches in the back of the head, heaviness in the head
• Dizziness
• Flashing “flies” before the eyes
• Irritability, fatigue, depressed mood
• Sleep disorders (insomnia, frequent waking up)
• Visual impairments
• Pain in the region of the heart
• First, episodic increases in blood pressure, then a persistent increase.

Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to complications

Let’s take a closer look at the acute complications of hypertension first – these are emergency situations when you must immediately call an ambulance. If there is no way to call an ambulance, ask someone to take you to the hospital.

One of these situations is a Hypertensive crisis – this is a sharp, sudden jump in pressure, accompanied by a deterioration in well-being. Sometimes the state of health can be normal. However, a hypertensive crisis always requires urgent intervention. Provoking factors for a pressure surge can be:

• Neuropsychic and physical stress
• Change of weather
• Heavy smoking
• Abrupt withdrawal of blood pressure lowering drugs, taking short-acting drugs
• Drinking alcohol
• Large meals, especially salty, and at night
• Foods and drinks containing substances that increase blood pressure: coffee – caffeine, chocolate, cheese, caviar – tyramine.

It is very important to know what you can do yourself with high blood pressure before the doctor arrives

• First of all, you need to measure blood pressure
• Before the doctor arrives, try to lower your blood pressure yourself: to do this, take: Kapoten 25 mg – 1-2 tabs under the tongue or Corinfar 10 mg – 1 tab inside.
• For pain in the heart – nitrospray – 1 injection under the tongue
• You can not reduce blood pressure sharply, especially in the elderly and with a stroke, otherwise there may be cerebral ischemia (reduce by 20-25% in 2 hours).
• Call an ambulance doctor.

Against the background of high pressure, it is important to pay attention to the manifestations characteristic of a stroke or a temporary violation of cerebral circulation.

For this you need:

• Ask the person to smile. He can’t do it with both corners of his mouth. The smile will be crooked.
• Ask for a simple sentence, such as “the weather is fine today.” He will not be able to say clearly, “the tongue is tangled.”
• Ask to raise both hands at the same time. He will not be able or will be able only partially
• Ask to stick out the tongue – if it is twisted, turned – then this is a sign of a stroke.
• Visual impairment in one or both eyes, dark spots
• Disorders of gait, coordination, balance, dizziness
• Severe headache without cause

If you find these symptoms, you should immediately consult a cardiologist.

Irreversible changes can be prevented by calling an ambulance in the first 4.5 hours after the onset of these symptoms.

Now a few words about the chronic complications of hypertension. As we said earlier, with a long course of hypertension, small arteries are primarily affected, causing disruption of the work of various organs: the heart, kidneys, eyes, brain, blood vessels. Therefore, these organs are called targets of hypertension. The vulnerability of these organs in different people is different – in someone the heart is first affected, in someone the kidneys, in someone the brain. The presence of hypertension cannot be known without measuring the pressure.

The only way to determine your blood pressure is to measure it at least occasionally. And come to the annual medical examinations to the therapist. To measure pressure at home, there is a special device – a tonometer. Pressure should begin to be measured after 30 years. Today in pharmacies you can find a wide variety of blood pressure monitors from various manufacturers. The main difference between tonometers is in the method of measuring pressure. There are manual mechanical blood pressure monitors, semi-automatic and fully automatic blood pressure monitors.

The main disadvantage of mechanical tonometers and at the same time the advantage of automatic tonometers is that mechanical tonometers do not allow you to measure the pressure yourself, especially when you feel unwell, since to determine the pressure you need to listen to your heart sounds with a stethoscope, so you need another person who will measure your pressure , while automatic blood pressure monitors require only putting on a cuff and pressing a button. Also, mechanical blood pressure monitors work without batteries, while automatic ones can work both from batteries and from the mains. There is a battery charge indicator on the display of the tonometer, which will allow you to avoid situations when a discharged battery will take you by surprise, just when you urgently need to measure pressure.

Most blood pressure monitors have a cuff that is worn on the shoulder or on the wrist. There are also sports fitness bracelets without a cuff that can measure pressure and pulse, as well as body temperature, blood oxygen saturation, pulse regularity, sleep duration. The most convenient and accurate are blood pressure monitors with a cuff on the shoulder.

Since different people have different arm diameters, cuffs come in different sizes depending on the diameter of the arm circumference. As a rule, a standard cuff (22-32 cm) or a universal cuff (22-42 cm) is included with the tonometer. If the cuff does not fit, then you can additionally purchase a cuff suitable for your tonometer model. They come in the following sizes: 1. Pediatric cuff: 15-22 cm (S) 2. Medium cuff: 22-32 cm (M) 3. Large cuff: 32-42 cm (L) 4. Extra large: 32-52 cm (L-XL) Cuffs are soft and rigid. Here you can focus on your preferences. As a rule, a rigid cuff provides a more comfortable measurement process. However, we recommend that you try the cuff on your arm before buying in order to choose the most suitable one. Rigid cuff Soft cuff Also, to ensure the accuracy of the result and reliability of use, we recommend using blood pressure monitors from well-known manufacturers, such as: Beurer, AND, Microlife, Omron, Littledoctor, CITIZEN, Sanitas, Medisana, Nissei, Panasonic.

Tonometers of different manufacturers and brands are equipped with various other functions that facilitate the process of measuring pressure and make it more convenient, for example, display backlight, sound signals, voice guidance, saving the results of previous measurements in memory, the ability to use one tonometer for two people, while the results of their measurements are saved individually. Here you can focus solely on your preferences. All tonometers show the measurement result as two numbers: systolic pressure (upper) and diastolic pressure (lower). BP is measured in mmHg. The tonometer also shows the pulse rate and the presence of arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).

In order to obtain accurate results using a tonometer, certain rules must be followed.

Rules for measuring pressure

It is necessary to measure the pressure while sitting, in a calm state for at least 5 minutes. Not earlier than 30 minutes after physical, emotional stress, food, cigarettes or coffee. If there is more pressure on one of the two hands, then for all subsequent measurements we select it. If a person is overweight and the circumference of his shoulder is more than 46 cm, then it is necessary to use a cuff with a width of 14 cm, otherwise the data will be overestimated.

1. Sitting with support on the back of a chair, relax your legs. The arm is relaxed and rests on a flat horizontal surface, not on weight
2. The hand is at the level of the heart
3. The arm is stationary during the measurement
4. Cuff 2.5 fingers above the elbow
5. Do not cuff clothing, do not roll up sleeves to form a roll of fabric
6. Repeated measurement on the same arm is possible after 1-2 minutes.
7. Measurement of blood pressure – in the morning after waking up and in the evening before bedtime.

Further, the obtained measurement results are used to diagnose the presence of arterial hypertension, as well as to assess the risk of developing vascular complications, such as strokes and heart attacks, in the next 10 years specifically in your situation. This is called prognosis. This prognosis is influenced by your medical history, blood pressure levels, and test results. The examination is prescribed by a cardiologist or therapist to determine the state of your target organs at the moment. The examination allows you to get a holistic view of your health and understand which target organs will be vulnerable in the first place.

The minimum examination looks like this:

• Monitoring of blood pressure and ECG per day. False-positive results occur in white-coat hypertension. When you see a doctor, your subconscious mind remembers how, as a child, a person dressed like this gave you a very painful injection in the ass, as you thought, completely unfair. This is stressful for you and the pressure naturally rises. “Hypertension,” the doctor tells you. You come home, your wife measures your blood pressure – it is completely normal. In our case, the output is the daily monitoring of blood pressure. When a special wearable device measures the pressure every 20-40 minutes during the day. This is the “gold standard” for diagnosing hypertension
• ECG,
• ultrasound of the heart;
• Ultrasound of the kidneys;
• urinalysis;
• Doppler ultrasound of neck vessels;
• Blood tests: cholesterol, sugar, clinical blood count;
• Ophthalmic examination – assessment of the fundus vessels.

Knowing the test results, you and your doctor can assess your risk of vascular complications by answering questions. At the same time, if you have at least 1 item from the left column, then the risk of complications is already high and you need to immediately start drug treatment

Check if you moved:

• Stroke;
• Heart attack;

Please list your risk factors:

• Age >55 for men and >65 for women
• Smoking
• Elevated cholesterol (>6. 5 mmol/l)
• Cardiovascular diseases in relatives
• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Excessive alcohol consumption

Please note if you have:

• Angina pectoris
• Diabetes mellitus
• Vascular disease of the legs (“intermittent claudication”)
• Aortic aneurysm
• Renal dysfunction

Ask your cardiologist if you have:

• Left ventricular hypertrophy
• Fundus changes
• Protein in urine and/or increased blood creatinine
• Systolic BP >180/110 Each yes answer to the questions in this table corresponds to one risk factor.

The total number of yes answers tells you how many risk factors you have in total.

Then, compare the number of risk factors you have with your blood pressure levels and use the table below to estimate your risk of developing vascular complications over the next 10 years.

• Low risk <15%,
• Average risk 15-20%,
• High risk 20-30%,
• Very high risk >30%

Now you know your risk of vascular complications. What to do next?

The choice of further medical tactics for arterial hypertension depends on your level of risk. Each level of risk has its own tactics.

Low Risk: No immediate treatment needed, monitor blood pressure regularly for 6-12 mo. If after 12 months BP>150/95 – then you need to start drug therapy.

At Moderate risk: Regularly measure blood pressure for 3-6 months, non-drug correction of risk factors for 3-6 months. If, after 6 months, blood pressure > 140/90, then it is necessary to start drug therapy.

If you are at high risk: Immediate medical treatment. You need to see a doctor. To reduce the risk of vascular complications – heart attack and stroke, it is necessary to normalize blood pressure.

To do this, you need to understand what underlies high blood pressure. Pressure is based on both genetics and environmental influences. Therefore, all risk factors for the development of hypertension are divided into 2 large groups – these are:

• Immutable factors. We cannot influence these factors, since they are determined by genes and are innate. These include: gender, age, heredity (the presence of cardiovascular diseases in close relatives at a young age up to 40 years). But in itself, a hereditary predisposition to arterial hypertension does not mean that a person will definitely get sick.

But when other negative factors join heredity:

• Changeable factors. Most of them are our life habits. We can change them. These include: smoking, nutrition, obesity, excessive salt intake, inactivity, stress, nervous tension, cholesterol levels, alcohol abuse, coffee, blood pressure levels. One of these factors is the general abuse of salt, and specifically, sodium, which is part of it. Few people know that even without salting food on purpose, we nevertheless consume sodium three times more than the amount that we need. Sodium is found not only in table salt, but also in the mass of food additives in food products, such as preservatives, dyes, stabilizers, sweeteners, additives to improve the taste and color of foods, flavorings (for example, monosodium glutamate, sodium nitrite, sodium benzoate , sodium citrate, sodium cyclamate and others). Excess intake of sodium in the body is one of the most powerful risk factors for arterial hypertension. We will talk about this separately.

As for stress… Undoubtedly, stress often works like a detonator, it starts the process of arterial hypertension. But if a person who quarrels with his superiors, drives through city traffic jams, overcomes snowdrifts and puddles, etc., is provided with ideal living conditions, then arterial hypertension will not disappear from him.

The treatment of arterial hypertension is always a partnership between a doctor and a patient.

We would like you to have an understanding of what is in your power to do for yourself and how important it is to understand the purpose for which the doctor gives certain recommendations. This gives you the opportunity to prevent or slow down the course of the disease and reduce the risk of its complications.

Hypertension treatment includes both non-drug treatments and medications.

Non-drug methods relate to changing habits and lifestyle and are recommended for all patients, regardless of pressure numbers and risk levels. Non-drug treatments for high blood pressure include:

• Power Features
• Dietary sodium reduction
• Maintaining the intake of potassium, calcium, magnesium in the body
• Reduced dietary intake of saturated fats, cholesterol, increased vegetables and fruits
• Increased physical activity
• Restriction of alcohol consumption, coffee
• Smoking cessation
• Weight loss in obesity
• Normalization of the regime of work and rest We will discuss all these factors separately later.

Medical methods include taking drugs from different groups, which can be combined with each other, and combined with non-drug methods of treatment.

How to increase blood pressure: 5 quick ways that will definitely help

Likbez

Health

August 11, 2022

And 6 more, thanks to which you will forget about problems with pressure forever.

You can listen to the short version of the article. If it’s more convenient for you, turn on the podcast.

Low blood pressure is a nasty thing, but it’s usually safe. However, hypotension attacks should never be ignored.

What is low pressure and why is it dangerous

Remember the borderline – 90/60. As long as the tonometer shows you these or higher values, everything is in order. But as soon as any of the numbers decreases – even the first, even the second – we can talk about low pressure.

There is an important nuance here. If everything is clear with high blood pressure: it is categorically dangerous for everyone, then low blood pressure may just be your feature. As long as it does not spoil life with ailments, it is not considered a violation, it does not need to be fought.

Another thing is if the following symptoms appear:

• weakness;
• dizziness, to the point where it seems that you are about to lose consciousness;
• blurred vision;
• nausea;
• chills;
• sweating;
• decrease in concentration.

This complex seriously spoils life, interferes with work and communication. But most importantly, low blood pressure, if accompanied by unpleasant symptoms, is actually just a symptom.

The causes of low blood pressure can range from simple dehydration and stress to hormonal imbalances, internal bleeding and myocardial infarction.

It is important to find out what exactly causes hypotension and start treatment. When the underlying disease is defeated, the pressure normalizes by itself.

When to call an ambulance

As soon as you or a loved one notice not only a very low blood pressure, but also

• cold, clammy and pale skin;
• rapid shallow breathing;
• weak and rapid pulse;
• confusion.

These are signs of the so-called acute arterial hypotension (collapse, shock). This condition is life-threatening. It can lead to hypoxia of the brain and internal organs. Therefore, it is impossible to delay seeking medical help.

How to quickly increase blood pressure at home

As a reminder: if low blood pressure has unpleasant symptoms, go to a therapist. Otherwise, you risk missing a possible hidden and much more global problem. But while you have not reached the doctor or the specialist has not yet established the causes of the ailment, you can use simple home methods to increase blood pressure. Choose the most comfortable for you or combine them.

1. Eat something salty

A piece of herring, pickled cucumber, a couple of slices of cheese or other pickled cheese, a spoonful of rice generously seasoned with soy sauce …

Sodium chloride (the same table salt) increases blood pressure. Sometimes abruptly, so salt is categorically contraindicated for people suffering from hypertension.

Attention! You can not constantly increase the pressure salty. Too much sodium can lead to heart failure, especially in older people.

2. Drink a glass of water

Or two, if you can. The liquid will increase the volume of blood (as a result, its pressure on the walls of blood vessels), and also eliminate possible dehydration.

3. Wear compression socks or stockings

Elastic stockings are commonly used to reduce swelling and pain in varicose veins. But in addition, they reduce the volume of blood in the legs. The expelled blood will increase the pressure in the main vessels of the body. Just wear your stockings correctly.

4. Get in the right posture

This is an alternative to compression stockings.

If sitting, cross your legs. So you reduce the volume of blood in the lower extremities and increase the pressure in the main vessels. By the way, therefore, for people suffering from hypertension, this position is contraindicated.

If you are standing, you can cross your hips like scissors and squeeze them hard. The effect will be about the same.

Alternatively, place one foot on a chair or bench in front of you and lean forward as far as you can with your whole body.

5. Drink some coffee

This is one of the most popular methods, but not the fact that it is effective. Caffeine can actually increase blood pressure in people who rarely drink coffee. But if you are a coffee lover, the desired effect will not necessarily come.

How to permanently raise your blood pressure without medication

Again: with the help of a doctor who will determine the causes of your condition and prescribe a treatment regimen. To alleviate the symptoms, the doctor will prescribe drugs that return low blood pressure to normal.

However, you can help your body by changing your lifestyle a little. Here’s what doctors advise you to do if you have hypotension:

1. Drink plenty of water, especially if it’s hot or you have a fever.
2. Limit your alcohol intake. Avoid alcohol altogether if possible.
3. Exercise regularly or at least walk more: exercise improves vascular tone.
4. Try not to stand in one place for a long time.