7 common mistakes that could alter Blood Pressure reading |

High blood pressure, affecting nearly 1.28 billion adults globally, often goes unnoticed, posing risks of heart disease and stroke. Accurate measurement is crucial, yet errors like using ill-fitting cuffs, talking during readings, or having a full bladder can skew results. Incorrect arm positioning, crossed legs, unsupported back and feet, and improper timing also contribute to inaccurate readings.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects nearly 1.28 billion adults, according to the 2023 data from the World Health Organization (WHO). What’s more shocking is that 46% of them are unaware that they have the condition. Often known as a silent killer, due to the lack of any visible symptoms, high blood pressure is one of the leading causes of chronic illnesses, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Which is why regular blood pressure measurement is critical for diagnosis and management. However, many people unknowingly make errors that skew the results. Here are seven common mistakes to avoid when checking blood pressure at home or in a clinical setting.

One of the common mistakes people make when it comes to blood pressure measurement is using the wrong cuff size. Yes, the size of the blood pressure cuff matters. A cuff that’s too small or too large can lead to inaccurate readings. According to the American Heart Association, a cuff too small adds 2-10 mm Hg. Similarly, placing the cuff over clothing, rather than a bare arm, can add 5 to 50 points to a measurement. The cuff should be on a bare arm. While measuring blood pressure, always ensure the cuff fits snugly and is placed on the upper arm, not the wrist, unless using a validated wrist device.

It’s not the right time to get chatty. Movement or conversation during a reading can elevate blood pressure. You should stay still and silent while the cuff inflates and deflates. Talking can add 10-15 mm Hg to the readings. Any distractions, such as phone notifications or background noise, can also interfere with he results. In order to get accurate measurements, ensure you are in a distraction-free zone.

Many people don’t realize it, but not emptying the bladder before a blood pressure measurement can lead to falsely elevated readings. When your bladder is full, it sends signals to the brain indicating the need to urinate. This could lead to increased activity in the sympathetic nervous system, which is a part of your nervous system responsible for the ‘fight or flight’ response. As a result, your heart rate may slightly elevate and your blood vessels constrict. This can cause a temporary rise in blood pressure. Having a full bladder can tack on 10-15 mm Hg.

The position in which you place your arm has a significant impact on the blood pressure readings. The arm should be at heart level, and supported on a flat surface, with the palm facing up. If you place the arm too high or too low, it can artificially raise or lower the measurement. According to AMA, failing to support the arm at heart level can add 10 mm Hg.

Many people unknowingly sit incorrectly during a blood pressure test, often with their legs crossed. While it may seem harmless, this small posture mistake can significantly alter your reading. When you cross your legs, it compresses the blood vessels in your thighs and lower legs. This compression can lead to increased resistance to blood flow, which in turn elevates blood pressure. Crossing legs adds an extra 2-8 mm Hg. So, it is important to avoid crossing legs while measuring blood pressure.

As mentioned above, body posture plays a crucial role in blood pressure measurement. Sitting without back support will engage your core and back muscles. This could activate the sympathetic nervous system, slightly raising your heart rate and blood pressure. An unsupported back can increase a measurement by 5-10 mm Hg. That same range applies to feet left dangling from an exam table or high chair. Keeping your feet flat on the floor and having back support is crucial for accurate blood pressure measurement.

Timing is key when it comes to measuring blood pressure. If you measure blood pressure right after eating, drinking caffeine, smoking, or exercising, it can alter the results. Experts suggest avoiding exercise, smoking, and caffeine at least 30 minutes before the blood pressure reading, as all of these can temporarily raise heart rate and blood pressure. Stress or emotional distress can also spike results, so take measurements in a calm, quiet environment.