Measurement of blood pressure is one of the basic tests that can be performed at home and provide valuable information for the doctor. Blood pressure shows diurnal variability, with the lowest values usually during sleep.
It can fluctuate significantly due to:
- emotions,
- physical exertion,
- eating a meal,
- smoking,
- drinking alcohol,
- temperature,
- filling the bladder,
- pain.
Arterial pressures - Symptoms and course
Principles of blood pressure measurement
Automatic and semi-automatic blood pressure monitors with a cuff of the appropriate width are used to measure blood pressure at home. There are many devices on the market, but not all of them meet the standards. Wrist monitors are less accurate and should not be used as a substitute for conventional monitors.
Blood pressure should be measured after a short period of rest (about 5 minutes) in a sitting position. The first time, the blood pressure should be measured on both arms; subsequent measurements should be taken on the arm where the blood pressure was higher. Wrap the cuff around the arm so that the lower edge of the cuff is approx. 3 cm above the elbow crease. Ideally, ≥2 measurements should be taken on the same arm at an interval of ≥1 min and the average result recorded.
To check whether you are at risk of hypertension, measure your blood pressure every day at the same time (preferably in the morning, without medication) for 7 days and record the results. If you already have high blood pressure and are taking medication, you should measure your blood pressure about 1-2 times a week. Normal blood pressure values are <130/80 mmHg measured at home.
When to go to the doctor and cure
You should visit your doctor if your home blood pressure values are >130/80 mm Hg for at least one week. This is not the value that entitles one to a diagnosis of hypertension, which is >=140/90 mmHg; but in such a case one should still see a doctor.
