7 mistakes that can boost your blood pressure reading

[rangerrebew]

7 mistakes that can boost your blood pressure reading
Who knew that a full bladder or being chatty could bump up your numbers?

    By: Robert Preidt, HealthDay
    More articles by Robert Preidt, HealthDay
    May 19, 2018


Mum’s the word the next time you have your blood pressure checked.

Talking while the cuff is on can boost your blood pressure reading. So can a full bladder or crossing your legs, the American Heart Association says.

“These simple things can make a difference in whether or not a person is classified as having high blood pressure that requires treatment,” said Dr. Michael Hochman, a member of the heart association’s blood pressure task force. He’s also an associate professor of clinical medicine at the University of Southern California.

https://healthbeat.spectrumhealth.org/7-mistakes-that-can-boost-your-blood-pressure-reading/

[Fishrrman]

- Having a full bladder can add 10 to 15 points to a blood pressure reading. Always try to use the bathroom before getting a reading.
- Poor support for your feet or back while seated can raise your blood pressure reading by 6 to 10 points. You should sit in a chair with your back supported and feet flat on the floor or a footstool.
- Crossing your legs can add 2 to 8 points to your reading.
- If your arm hangs by your side or you must hold it up while getting a reading, your blood pressure numbers may be 10 points higher than the actual figure. Your arm should be on a chair or counter so that the blood pressure cuff is level with your heart.
- Having the cuff placed over clothing can add 5 to 50 points to your reading. The cuff should be on a bare arm.
- A too-small cuff can add 2 to 10 points to a reading.
- Talking can add 10 points to your reading. Remain still and silent while your blood pressure is taken

[Cyber Liberty]

My Doc insists his nurses take BP readings with an old-fashioned cuff and a stethoscope.  It's good for 10 points.  The auto-blast machines give higher readings.