Is it possible to measure pressure through clothing. It is forbidden to make mistakes

Leading programs - Alla Volokhina and Konstantin Korolkov.

Guest in the studio - cardiologist Alena Mikhailovna Gavrilova.

Many people, especially the elderly, need to control their blood pressure. However, the pressure also jumps in the younger ones. Experts checked household blood pressure monitors, and it turned out that in 70 percent of cases, their error was 5 mm Hg, and in 30 percent - about 10 mm. By the way, most doctors do not use electronic pressure measuring devices, they prefer conventional mechanical blood pressure monitors, which are simpler and more reliable. Why do doctors prefer to use tonometers that are used in conjunction with a stethoscope?

A. Gavrilova: One side, mechanical tonometers as accurate as possible. But this is only when they are used by medical professionals in a medical facility. If the patient himself at home measures his pressure with a mechanical tonometer, this does not mean that he will be able to do it as accurately as possible. He may have even more problems. The patient may have poor hearing, poor vision, and may wear a cuff over clothing.

In order to use the device at home, in a domestic environment, what tonometers would you recommend?

A. Gavrilova: Here you need to look individually. If a person does not live alone, but in pairs, that is, he has someone to measure the pressure, then a mechanical tonometer can be successfully used, measuring the pressure to each other. If a person is elderly and lives alone, then it will be difficult for him to use a mechanical tonometer. Ideally, either a semi-automatic or an automatic device will suit him.

What is the difference? Semi-automatic apparatus- this is when a person himself inflates the cuff with a pear, and the device already blows air, and it also determines the pressure. That is, a person does not need to listen to tones, a stethoscope is not used. And when using automatic apparatus the person only needs to put on the cuff, press the button and that's it. The device does everything by itself.

And what if these modern devices twist? When you use an electronic thermometer, they say that you need to measure your body temperature three times, the arithmetic mean will be the real body temperature. What about measuring pressure?

A. Gavrilova: The same is true for pressure measurements. Because there really are errors, these errors are especially noticeable in automatic devices. Especially if they are carpal. Personally, I do not recommend using these to my patients at all. You also need to measure the pressure three times and take the average pressure.

Who needs to monitor their blood pressure regularly?

A. Gavrilova: It is imperative to measure blood pressure for people who already have any kind of heart disease. These are hypertensive patients, people with coronary heart disease. If they take drugs that affect blood pressure, then definitely. In fact, the doctor asks such patients to keep a so-called "diary" in which to write down the pressure figures in the morning and in the evening in order to see what happens to the patient while taking medications.

If we talk about the errors of home measurement, then, rather, it is not that the blood pressure monitors lie very much, because 5-10 mm is, of course, significant in the long term, but it is not so significant when a patient measures blood pressure at home. ... That is, if he has a pressure of 120 or 125, then, roughly speaking, it is practically the same.

The pressure figures will be significant when it comes to 138 and 144 mm. Because above 140 to 90 is not normal pressure, but less than 140 to 90 is normal pressure. But if the patient measures the pressure three times with a break, not in a row, so that the vascular wall has time to recover, the break should be at least a minute, took the average pressure, then this can already be considered true.

How to measure pressure correctly? After all, if you measure it incorrectly, there will be many extra units of mercury.

A. Gavrilova: I think that this is even the main problem when measuring pressure at home. And maybe even outside the house it happens too.

Pressure measurement rules:

1. The patient should be at rest. If you came running from the street, climbed the stairs to the fifth floor, you do not need to immediately measure the pressure. Of course, if a person does not feel well, yes, you do not need to wait 10 minutes, you need to measure it right away, but do a control study after 10 minutes of rest. If you measure the pressure right away, you need to understand that this is not resting pressure and that it is normal when the obtained figures are higher than your usual readings.

2. You need to be in a relaxed state. That is, there is no need to measure the pressure while standing, in some uncomfortable position, or, for example, sitting on the edge of a chair or with your legs crossed. It shouldn't be like that. The muscles should be relaxed. Optimally, if it is a chair near the table. There is a tonometer on the table, the arm is relaxed on the table, the legs are just next to each other, they are not crossed and not laid on top of each other, not tucked under the chair, and the back rests on the back of the chair. This is the best posture for correctly measuring your blood pressure.

3. Item for people who smoke. Within half an hour after smoking a cigarette, their pressure will be slightly overestimated.

4. In addition, pressure should not be measured with a full bladder. A full bladder is one of the most powerful factors affecting blood pressure. If a person has not relieved himself of need, his blood pressure will also be increased.

Which arm should you put on the cuff?

A. Gavrilova: When patients come to me, I usually measure their pressure on two hands. 10 millimeters difference between the two hands is allowed, this is normal. And then the pressure is constantly measured on the arm on which the indicators were higher. If the pressure difference on both hands is more than 10 mm, then it is better to always measure the pressure on both hands and record both pressures.

For some people, the 140 to 90 rate may be the peak when you need to already take the pills.

A. Gavrilova: When we talk about the norm, it is always something conditional. They took a large, large group of people, they all checked, averaged and received. The normal pressure in an adult is considered to be less than 140 to 90. But there is also such a thing as normal high blood pressure. If 135 to 83 is normal blood pressure, but it is normal high.

And there is also the concept of an individual norm. If, for example, a person always has a pressure of 110 to 60, then 140 to 90 will mean a hypertensive crisis for him. Therefore, yes, someone may have a lower rate.

Can pressure be measured through clothing? And can the cuff be worn below the elbow?

A. Gavrilova: In both cases, it is impossible: neither on the shirt, nor below the elbow. There are standard rules. The cuff should be worn about two fingers above the ulnar fossa, and the tube through which the cuff is inflated should be facing the ulnar fossa.

How to choose a cuff?

A. Gavrilova: It is necessary to measure the circumference of the arm above the elbow, in the middle of the shoulder, and if its length is more than 32 cm, then the patient needs a large cuff. Typically, pharmacies sell blood pressure monitors with medium cuffs.

Does red wine affect blood pressure? And if so, is it worth using it to correct it?

A. Gavrilova: Red wine and, in principle, any alcohol can affect blood pressure. The only question is quantity and quality.

If you drink a glass of red wine, then globally this will not affect the pressure in any way, but the pressure may drop slightly, just a couple of millimeters of mercury. That is, wine lowers blood pressure. Strong alcoholic drinks, for example, cognac, act in the same way. If taken in a small dose, vasodilation occurs, and therefore the pressure may also decrease slightly. But if you drink a lot of strong alcohol, then, as a rule, this leads to an increase in blood pressure.

How much is this much?

A. Gavrilova: For each person, "many" is his own number. A glass of cognac (50 g) for an overweight man can be drunk without any consequences at all, but for a fragile woman this is already a lot.

Listen to the entire program in the audio file.

drink it or not? ?? ??

And when you visit a doctor, your blood pressure may rise because you are nervous. ..

Tags for this topic

Your rights

• You can create new topics
• You can reply in threads
• You cannot attach attachments
• You can not edit your posts

• BB codes
• Smilies
• Code On
• code is On
• HTML Code Off

© 2000- Nedug.Ru. The information on this site is not intended to replace professional medical care, advice and diagnosis. If you find yourself with symptoms of the disease or do not feel well, then you need to consult a doctor for additional advice and treatment. Send all comments, wishes and suggestions to

Copyright © 2018 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.

How to correctly measure blood pressure with an electronic tonometer, tips

From this article, you will learn: how to measure pressure with an electronic tonometer in order to get a reliable measurement result. Frequent measurement errors.

Compared to mechanical blood pressure monitors, electronic blood pressure monitors can more often show false data. They are more sensitive, and the main reasons for incorrect results are caused by violation of the measurement rules. Therefore, it is important to comply with absolutely all the requirements for the tonometry technique with an electronic tonometer - we will analyze them later in the article.

Measuring blood pressure using an electronic tonometer

Rules for measuring pressure with an electronic tonometer

Here is the correct procedure:

1. Prepare for the study: it is advisable to conduct it after you rest (sit quietly) for 5 minutes. This requirement can be neglected if the patient's condition requires urgent medical attention.
2. If the person who is being tonometry with an electronic tonometer smoked or drank coffee 1–2 hours before the study, the pressure readings may be overestimated.
3. Sit or sit the subject on a chair with a back, make sure the body position is correct - the back is relaxed with support on the back of the chair, the legs are lowered, not tense or crossed.
4. Remove clothing from your left or right shoulder. Make sure that it does not cause compression or interfere with the application of the cuff. Ideally, the measurement should be done on both hands. Of course, if you are right-handed, it will be more convenient to do this on your left hand. But if the difference in pressure on the left and right exceeds 10 mm Hg, it is better to measure it on the hand on which the indicators are higher.
5. Place your hand on a support (for example, on a table) so that it is bent at the elbow, lies on the surface of the support with the extensor surface of the forearm and is absolutely relaxed.
6. Take an electronic tonometer, make sure that there are no obvious damage to the device, kinks and kinks of the hose.
7. Unbutton the cuff and, by circular wrapping, put it on the shoulder so that it is located 2 cm higher above the elbow bend, the pneumatic hose going to the apparatus is facing the hand, located in the center of the ulnar fossa (along the conditional line connecting it to middle finger of the hand).
8. If there is a mark on the cuff, make sure it is in the middle of the inner shoulder.
9. Press the power button of the device.
10. Wait for automatic inflation and evacuation of air. Do nothing during this time.
11. Numbers will appear on the electronic display of the device - the upper one displays the systolic pressure, the lower one - the diastolic pressure. Most devices also show the heart rate, which is below the rest. In this case, the diastolic pressure numbers will be located above the pulse (middle column).
12. Press the button, turn off the device and wait for the automatic shutdown.
13. Remove the cuff - measurement is complete.

Features of measurement with a semi-automatic electronic tonometer

A semiautomatic tonometer is a device that independently determines blood pressure numbers, but you need to pump air yourself with a pear. According to some reports, its results are more reliable than a fully automatic device. In general, it is necessary to measure according to the same algorithm, the differences are only in such moments:

• After you have correctly put the cuff on your shoulder, turn on the tonometer by pressing the start button on its body.
• Take the rubber bulb of the device in your free hand and blow air into the cuff to a level of 20–30 mm Hg. Art. higher than the usual or estimated pressure. If you do not know these numbers, you can pump air up to 200 mm Hg. Art., this will not be a mistake.
• After building up the desired pressure in the cuff, press the button near the bulb so that the air smoothly begins to leave it. At this time, the device will determine the pressure itself.
• The results will appear on a digital display, similar to the numbers described in the section "Rules for measuring with an automatic electronic tonometer - paragraph 11".
• To complete the procedure, once again press the start button of the device and the button near the pear, remove the cuff.

Frequent mistakes

Typical errors that distort the results of measuring pressure with an electronic tonometer:

1. Failure to comply with the requirements for taking measurements in a state of complete physical and psycho-emotional rest is a false overestimation of the device's indicators.
2. The arm on which the cuff is worn is tense or suspended.
3. The cuff is worn over the garment.
4. The shoulder is not properly released from the garment - it squeezes the fabric, the cuff grabs its edge.
5. High or too low position of the cuff in relation to the cubital fossa.
6. The device is turned on before the cuff is applied.
7. Incorrect position of the hoses (on the outer surface of the shoulder) or the inconsistency of the mark on the cuff to the middle of the inner surface of the shoulder.
8. Too tight or, conversely, too loose fit of the cuff to the shoulder.
9. Conversation or any tension during the measurement.
10. There was not a pause of 1–2 minutes between several changes on one hand.

If you have any doubts about the results of measuring pressure with an electronic tonometer (the indicators do not correspond to your well-being), be sure to carry out a control measurement with a classic mechanical tonometer!

• If you constantly measure blood pressure with an electronic tonometer, keep a record of the indicators of each study, noting the date, time and value of the indicators.
• Be sure to periodically check the pressure with a mechanical tonometer. It is better for a specialist to do this (the attending physician is best).
• If the readings of a mechanical and electronic tonometer differ, you must trust the first one.
• For greater reliability, it is better to measure the pressure several times on both hands during one session, with a pause of 1-2 minutes between changes.
• The results of three measurements are considered reliable, the difference between which does not exceed 5 mm Hg. Art.

Treatment of the heart and blood vessels © 2016 | Site map | Contacts | Personal data policy | User Agreement | When citing a document, a link to the site indicating the source is required.

Answers to questions about tonometers

How to check the accuracy of an automatic blood pressure monitor at home?

Please tell me how to check the accuracy of an automatic blood pressure monitor at home? Thanks!

BPA 3.2 question - exporting data to excel

I have been diagnosed with an elevated glycemic level, and since the beginning of this year I have been systematically monitoring my blood sugar and central hemodynamic parameters using the Microlife BP A110 AFIB tonometer.

What does the tonometer diagnose?

Tell me, what can a tonometer diagnose in addition to arterial hypertension? I heard that with the help of a tonometer it is possible to determine vascular diseases, please explain, there may be something else. thanks

Pressure 135/50 I'm 18 years old. Is this the norm?

My blood pressure is usually / 50-60 although I'm 18 years old what to do. this is the norm.

I am 15 years old I have high blood pressure 110/90

Hello, I am 15 years old, in 3 months I will be 16, I have a high blood pressure of 110/90 (as the doctors said, I myself do not know how to use a tonometer) and 110 beats per minute is my pulse (it is as long as I can remember). What to do?

How many years is the warranty for the A100 Plus tonometer?

I have a Microlife BP A100 Plus tonometer, I didn’t buy it from you, but at OOO TD SIBDIAMED a couple of days ago.

Tell me how many years is the guarantee - 5 or 10?

How Sleeves Affect Blood Pressure Measurement

Can you tell me how the sleeves of clothes affect the measurement of blood pressure? Do you need to roll them up when measuring or should you completely remove your outerwear?

I go in for sports professionally ..

Tell me, is it possible to measure blood pressure by pulse or should you buy a tonometer?

Weird blood pressure monitor: for pregnant women or for the whole family?

Your tonometer is strange. marked as "for the whole family", and in the instructions - for pregnant women. what is really true?

The A100 Plus tonometer does not have a backlit display and an old cuff. Sergey

The display of the A100 Plus tonometer is NOT illuminated. I believe that the presentation of information about the tonometer display in the form as it is given on your page is misleading the consumer.

Can the universal cuff be used when measuring pressure on a child?

What does a universal cuff mean and can it be used to measure blood pressure in a child?

Weak and strong points of automatic blood pressure monitors

Good afternoon, Vyacheslav, please explain the weak and strong points of automatic blood pressure monitors. Thanks! Nikolay, the village of Zarechye.

What to look for when choosing a mechanical blood pressure monitor?

If you have good skills in measuring pressure (especially if you are a doctor and you need a mechanical tonometer for practical use in your work), if you have no doubt that you can accurately follow all the measurement rules, and besides, you have no problems with vision or hearing, then your choice is a mechanical blood pressure monitor.

The child has high blood pressure, we measure it with a tonometer every evening! Sometimes 136 is the top!

Good day! Tell me please! A child (8 years old) has high blood pressure, we measure every evening! Sometimes 136 is the top!

Choose an automatic or semi-automatic tonometer?

Hello. My name is Irina. I am 35 years old. Which tonometer to choose: automatic or semi-automatic? What are the differences.

Systolic pressure

What is systolic pressure?

Folk remedies for hypertension

Are there folk remedies for hypertension?

Treatment of hypertension. What is it?

Hypertensive crisis

What is a hypertensive crisis?

Causes of high blood pressure

Please explain the reasons for the high pressure. Thanks.

Cardiac ischemia

What is coronary artery disease?

Hypertension treatment

Tell us about the treatment of hypertension

Normal blood pressure

What is normal blood pressure?

Lowering blood pressure

How to lower blood pressure?

After childbirth, blood pressure became low

Hello, my blood pressure became low after giving birth. Almost 8 years have passed, and I consider 90 to 60 pressure to be my normal state. And when it rises to 120/90 I start to suffer from a headache.

Wrist Tonometer Accuracy

Tell me, are wrist monitors as accurate as the rest?

What is the normal pressure?

What blood pressure is considered normal?

What is blood pressure?

Good afternoon, explain in a nutshell what blood pressure is, thank you.

Why are the arrhythmia readings different day and night?

Why BP A100 Plus tonometer at night with pulse

50 shows arrhythmia, and during the day with a pulse

80 does not show arrhythmia?

Is it possible to measure pressure with a tonometer on your own without one hand?

Disabled person, no arms up to the shoulder, is it possible to measure pressure with a tonometer on your own?

Arrhythmia drugs

Do you have any drugs for arrhythmia?

Why do the readings differ between two different blood pressure monitors?

Hello, two people at the age of 60 measured their blood pressure with two blood pressure monitors: Microlife BP 3BEO-4 and OMRON M-3, one had the same readings, the other different.

Where to buy an AC adapter for B. Well blood pressure monitors?

I bought a B.Well WA-33 tonometer, there is no mains adapter included.

I am 35 years old. But I already suffer from high blood pressure. I want to buy a wrist tonometer. Advise, is it worth doing?

Tell us about the best blood pressure monitors?

What makes Microlife automatic blood pressure monitors better than others?

I am 65 years old. I have hypertension. My mechanical blood pressure monitor fails me sometimes. I want to buy an automatic one. What would you recommend?

Measurements with mechanical and automatic tonometers show different data

My father is 70 years old. He constantly checks his pressure with either a mechanical or an automatic tonometer, indignant at the fact that they show different data. Maybe he's just not using it correctly?

What blood pressure monitors are more practical and more accurate?

There is an opinion that mechanical blood pressure monitors are more accurate and practical than automatic ones. Is it true?

Are there universal blood pressure monitors?

Does your company have blood pressure monitors that would simultaneously measure blood pressure and blood sugar?

Why is the pressure measured at home different from the results at the clinic?

Explain: why is my blood pressure high in the doctor's office, but everything is fine at home?

Is it possible to measure blood pressure with a tonometer for the whole family one after another?

Hello! The whole family measures blood pressure with one tonometer. Is it okay that like this "trailer" one after another?

What model of tonometer to choose?

My grandmother is 86 years old. Sees and hears poorly. I'm afraid she won't master the buttons on the tonometer. Do you have a simpler model?

When re-measuring, the indicators differ. Is the tonometer to blame for this?

Please explain why, when I measure the pressure three times in a row, my readings differ so much! Is this the device to blame?

Is a wrist tonometer suitable for an elderly person?

Children gave me a tonometer for my 60th birthday, which wears on the wrist. But it seems to me that he does not accurately measure pressure.

What is the best way to measure blood pressure: lying or sitting?

Hello! Is it true that when you measure blood pressure, you cannot talk? And how best to measure: lying or sitting?

Reliable blood pressure monitors

They say that electronic blood pressure monitors "lie"! That mechanical blood pressure monitors are more reliable!

What tonometer would you advise to measure blood pressure with arrhythmias and tachycardia?

Hello! I am 42 years old, but already arrhythmia and tachycardia ... What tonometer would you advise to measure blood pressure with?

Where can I check my blood pressure monitor if it seems to me that it is showing incorrect results?

Hello. It seems to me that the tonometer is showing incorrect results. Where can I check it?

What is the best tonometer to give to a grandmother?

My name is Maria Semyonovna. What is the best tonometer to give to a grandmother and how to teach her to them

I go in for sports. Suggest a suitable tonometer model.

Hello, my name is Natasha. I go in for sports, a fitness consultant advised me to control my pressure. I want to buy a tonometer. Suggest a suitable model.

Is it possible to shorten these intervals between pressure measurements?

Good afternoon. Nikolai Grigorievich worries. As expected, I measure my blood pressure three times every five minutes and each time I regret the lost time. Can these gaps be shortened?

Is it too early for me to measure my blood pressure?

Irina, 34 years old. Mom is constantly trying to measure my blood pressure, she even gave me a tonometer. And I doubt - is it too early to think about it?

Which blood pressure monitors are better?

Hello. My name is Natalya Ivanovna, I am 67 years old. Tell me which blood pressure monitors are better: mechanical, which are used by all doctors, or automatic?

We measure blood pressure with an electronic tonometer

Monitoring blood pressure indicators is a prerequisite for the correct treatment of hypertension. Daily monitoring helps to assess how effective the drugs are. In addition, with the right therapy, pressure monitoring allows you to feel more protected from the development of complications, such as stroke.

It is necessary to periodically monitor these indicators even for a healthy adult. This will help him to notice in time that blood pressure has increased, and to consult a doctor. A patient with hypertension or other forms of hypertension, while controlling his condition, is more attentive to the doctor's recommendations, is more organized, and takes medications in a timely manner.

You can measure blood pressure in the doctor's office - this is the so-called office measurement. For self-monitoring, it is more convenient to use an electronic tonometer, semi-automatic or automatic. How to correctly measure blood pressure using these devices, we will tell you in the article.

Measurement conditions

Before measuring blood pressure, the patient should not drink tea, coffee and other stimulating drinks, as well as smoke for an hour. If the doctor has not given other recommendations, the measurement is taken before taking the medicine in the morning and in the evening at the same time, recording the results obtained. It will be correct to carry out the procedure after bowel and bladder emptying.

Blood pressure should be measured with an electronic tonometer after a short rest, for example, sit quietly in a chair for 5 minutes. In the event that, before the examination, the patient performed physical activity (climbed stairs, carried heavy loads, and so on) or experienced anxiety, emotional stress, the duration of rest at rest will be correctly increased to 30 minutes.

During the study, one should not talk, strain, it is undesirable to be distracted from the procedure. All of this can skew the results.

The measurement is carried out in a warm, quiet room with a serviceable tonometer, in which high-quality alkaline batteries are inserted, or powered by a network. It is not recommended to use batteries, as their voltage is not sufficient for the correct operation of the device. When you turn on the device to the network, you do not need to remove the batteries from it, they are automatically turned off.

Use a cuff that matches the circumference of your upper arm. In obese people, you need to use a special cuff of a larger size. It is sold in Medtekhnika stores, pharmacies, or sometimes included with the device itself. The devices are available with a universal cuff, suitable for people with both normal and increased shoulder circumference.

Patient Pose

The person whose blood pressure needs to be measured should sit on a chair or armchair without crossing his legs or throwing them one on top of the other. Lean back slightly, leaning on the back of the chair. There should be no tight clothing on the arm, including the need to roll up the sleeve if it squeezes the shoulder tissue even slightly. Unlike the Korotkov method, when using an automatic tonometer, the cuff can be worn on a thin layer of fabric, in this case it is advisable to ensure that the clothes do not form dense thick folds. The tube of the device should be on the inside of the shoulder, that is, in the area above the elbow bend.

The hand should be relaxed and put on the table with the forearm and hand. You do not need to move it during measurement. You should never measure blood pressure "by weight". The cuff is put on so that it is located on the arm at the level of the heart, that is, in the middle of the chest.

During the study, you need to breathe correctly: do not hold your breath and do not take deep breaths.

On which hand should the measurement be taken: usually on the one on which the readings are higher, but always on the same one. The difference is 5-10 mm Hg. Art. is in this case insignificant, and then it is more convenient to apply the cuff with the right hand on the left shoulder and each time measure the indicator on the left hand.

Measurement process

After the patient has calmly sat down, applied the cuff and prepared for the measurement, he presses the "Start" button or begins to pump air into the cuff with his free hand. The pressure should be increased to above the expected systolic ("upper") pressure. In some devices, air is pumped by pressing and holding the Start button again, in more expensive ones it is carried out automatically.

Once the required compression level is reached, air is slowly released from the cuff. After the end of the measurement, a beep sounds to indicate that the cuff can be removed. The display shows indicators characterizing the blood pressure on the arm.

If an error message appears on the monitor, it may be due to an abnormal heart rhythm. In this case, it will be correct to repeat the measurement on the other hand after 5 minutes. If the error message is repeated, you need to measure your blood pressure with a conventional mechanical tonometer and be sure to consult a doctor to detect cardiac arrhythmias.

The obtained measurement result must be recorded in the self-control diary.

Which tonometer to choose? This is determined by the price of the device and the availability of additional functions. All semi-automatic and automatic devices from well-known manufacturers work equally efficiently. That is why the obtained indicators do not depend on which model a person uses.

Cardiologist - site about diseases of the heart and blood vessels

Cardiac surgeon online

How to measure blood pressure correctly at home

Self-monitoring of blood pressure at home is widely used. Home blood pressure measurements are very useful - they allow the doctor to more accurately assess the true blood pressure level and correctly prescribe antihypertensive drugs for long-term treatment of patients with hypertension.

These measurements are important because they provide information about the blood pressure level over long periods of time during which the patient does not visit the doctor and is in his usual environment.

Measurement conditions

• Rest for at least 5 minutes before taking blood pressure measurements.

• At least 30 minutes before measuring blood pressure, you must refrain from smoking and drinking caffeine (coffee, cola, tea).

• During the measurement, one should sit, leaning against the back of a chair, and the motionless arm should lie comfortably on the table.

• Do not talk while measuring.

• The cuff should be wrapped around the forearm with the center of the inflatable bag just above the brachial artery, and the bottom edge of the cuff should be about 2–3 cm above the elbow bend.

• The cuff inflatable bag must be at the same level as the heart during the measurement.

• Legs should not be crossed when measuring.

• Your feet should be on the floor.

• The bladder must be emptied before taking blood pressure measurements.

• The shoulder should not be squeezed by clothing (all the more, measurement through clothing is unacceptable).

• Failure to comply with these conditions can lead to high blood pressure:

  alcohol by - 8/8 mm Hg. Art.

  smoking at - 6/5 mm Hg. Art.

  with an overflowing bladder - by 15/10 mm Hg. Art.

  in the absence of a back support - systolic by 6-10 mm Hg. Art.

  in the absence of support for the hand - by 7/11 mm Hg. Art.

  Which blood pressure monitors are better to use

  For home blood pressure measurement, there are several types of devices available on the market:

  • Auscultatory method: mercury devices, aneroid ("dial") and electronic ("hybrid") devices for measuring blood pressure are used simultaneously with a stethoscope.
  • Electronic automated devices for measuring blood pressure at shoulder, wrist and finger level.

  Electronic devices for measuring blood pressure at shoulder level, whether semi-automatic (manual cuffs are inflated by squeezing a bulb) or automatic (battery-operated or powered) are preferred for self-measurement of blood pressure at home. These devices are easy to use, require minimal training, and many are affordable.

  How often should blood pressure be measured at home?

  For an initial assessment of hypertension and the assessment of the effects of taking antihypertensive drugs, blood pressure at home should be measured for at least 3, and preferably 7 days.

  What are the norms of blood pressure when measuring at home?

  As mentioned above, repeated measurements over several days must be averaged in order to obtain a reliable picture of blood pressure levels at home.

  Interpreting blood pressure measurements

  The average of several blood pressure measurements at home over several days complements the measurements in the doctor's office and helps the doctor make an accurate diagnosis.

  Cardiologist - site about diseases of the heart and blood vessels

Blood pressure surges occur even in people who do not suffer from vascular diseases. You can measure the pressure yourself with a special device - a tonometer.

Measurement results may show different values, even if measurements are taken in a very short period. Therefore, in order to obtain reliable data, you need to follow some rules, they will help to minimize the error of the results as much as possible.

General measurement rules

These rules apply regardless of what type of tonometer is used. When measuring pressure with an electronic device, you need to be more careful, since it is more sensitive than a mechanical one.

The position of the person to whom the pressure is measured should be comfortable: sitting or lying down. In a sitting position, the hand is placed on the table in a relaxed state.

• The temperature in the room should be comfortable.
• The cuff of the tonometer should be fixed on the shoulder in line with the heart.
• During the procedure, you should not talk, clench your palm into a fist, or put the palm of your other hand under your arm.
• If blood pressure is monitored systematically (for example, in case of illness), it should be carried out at the same time. This is best done before meals.
• The cuff should cover at least 80% of the circumference of the upper arm. When measuring with an obese person, it is imperative to use an extended air chamber cuff. In addition, it should be applied to bare skin and not on the sleeve of a garment.
• You need to pump air into the cuff quickly, and release it slowly.
• For half an hour or an hour before the procedure, you should refrain from smoking, consuming products containing caffeine, as well as from physical activity.

Basic measurement errors

• The hand is at the wrong level. The device may show an overestimated value if the hand is below the level of the heart. Accordingly, if the hand is above the level of the heart, the results will be underestimated.
• A man has nothing to lean his back on. The device will show a pressure higher than the real one.
• A tightly tightened cuff will also affect the measurement upwards. It should be tight, but not tight.
• A cuff worn over clothing can also give a large error in measurements. The sleeves should be raised, but not rolled up.
• At rest, the pressure gauge needle is not set to 0. Before measurement, you need to calibrate the device.
• Insufficient air inflation of the cuff. In this case, the device will show an underestimated systolic pressure.
• It is necessary to inject air into the cuff evenly. If pumping is too slow, the diastolic pressure on the reading will be overestimated. And if it is too fast, the systolic is underestimated and the diastolic is overestimated.
• Errors in results always give conversation or movement during the procedure.
• Measurements taken immediately after sports or physical activity will show quite high values.
• Distorted results can be obtained if the pressure is measured several times at short intervals. During measurements, the blood stagnates, you need to withstand a period of time of at least a minute for re-measurement. Then the results will be correct.

Difference in AT measurements on different hands

Measurements on the right and left hands may vary. This is due to the anatomical feature of the heart: in the vessels that extend to the right and left arms, the blood pressure is different. This difference can be up to 30 mm Hg. Art.

Thus, having obtained a normal reading on the left hand, one can skip the hypertension that would be seen when measuring the pressure on the right hand.

Despite this, almost all doctors take measurements on the left hand. They attribute this to a comfortable position of the patient.

In the instructions for devices for measuring blood pressure, the left hand is also often indicated as the recommended hand for taking measurements.

To obtain a real level of pressure, it is correct to measure on both hands. The highest indicator will be reliable. Henceforth, it is necessary to measure the pressure on the hand where the pressure level was higher.

In some cases, the difference in pressure in the arteries on different hands may be insignificant or completely absent. In this case, in order to determine on which hand the pressure should be measured, it is recommended to adhere to the following rule: for right-handers, pressure is measured on the left hand, for left-handers - on the right.

Factors Affecting Measurement Results

• Caffeine and nicotine. Foods that contain caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate and some carbonated drinks) can raise blood pressure by 5-15 mm Hg. Art. In a person who is not used to caffeine-containing products, they can cause a sharp rise in blood pressure.

Smoking has the same short-term pressure-increasing effect. Immediately after smoking a cigarette, the systolic and diastolic pressure increase by 10-30 mm Hg. Art. They return to normal after about half an hour.

• Medicines. 2 hours before measuring blood pressure, you should exclude taking medications that affect the work of the cardiovascular system. Undesirable drugs also include eye drops, nasal drops and sprays. They temporarily increase the pressure level.
• Arrhythmia. With this pathology, the principle of determining the pressure depends on what form of arrhythmia a person suffers from. Electronic blood pressure monitors can give an accurate result if the pulse signal is of sufficient quality. But with some forms of arrhythmia, it is messy and the results may be incorrect. In any case, it will be correct to take measurements several times and calculate the arithmetic mean.
• Position. Uncomfortable or incorrect body position during the measurement procedure can give a large error in the results. It is imperative to lean back in the chair, hands are in a relaxed state, not leaning on anything. The hand on which the measurement is carried out should lie, but not hang.

Also, you can not cross your legs and sit cross-legged. This can compress large arteries and result in incorrect measurement results.

• Cold room. You need to measure pressure at an air temperature of about 20 degrees. At lower temperatures, the measurement will be overestimated.
• Crowded bowel and bladder, bowel spasm. All of these factors contribute to an increase in blood pressure. It is better to measure pressure a few minutes after emptying the bladder.

So, it is correct to measure blood pressure on both hands (and not on the left, as everyone usually does), taking into account the highest value.

The different meaning of its level on the right and left hands is not a pathology, it is a physiological norm. If the readings taken from both hands are the same, in the future it is sufficient to take measurements with one hand.

Before the procedure, it is always worth considering all the factors that greatly distort the measurement results. For example, using a cold spray right before starting the procedure will increase the readings in the results. And during the measurement itself, adhere to the rules that will reduce the measurement error.

Cardiologist of the cardiology department Bukina G.V.

Why is blood pressure measurement so important?

Since high blood pressure is not always noticeable, a person can live with such pressure for many years. However, if left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious illnesses that are only recognized when the first effects begin. The danger can only be recognized with regular monitoring of blood pressure. Self-measurement of blood pressure in a familiar setting reflects blood pressure under normal conditions, as opposed to measurements made by a doctor in a clinic.

Why do I get different readings when I measure my blood pressure several times a day?

Since the heartbeat changes constantly throughout the day, one blood pressure measurement shows one value at a single moment. From heartbeat to heartbeat, human pressure changes about 100,000 times a day. Only regular measurements at the same time of day and under the same conditions can give comparable indicators and can be used to compare different blood pressure values.

Why should BP always be measured at the same time of day?

Many functions of the human body are subject to daily biorhythms that have similar characteristics when environmental conditions are similar. So blood pressure is subject to constant daily biorhythms: it rises in the morning, shortly before getting out of bed, falls in the afternoon and rises again when evening comes. The lowest blood pressure is observed at night. In order to compare blood pressure readings one with another, measurements must be made at the same time. Measurements taken in the morning cannot be compared with evening readings.

Why does my doctor get completely different results than I do at home?

Blood pressure indicators can be compared with one another, only if both measurements were taken when you were in a relaxed state and always at the same time of day. Studies have shown that 25% of people have higher readings in the doctor's office than at home. This phenomenon has been called the "white coat effect" or "white coat hypertension." This is not a disease, since high blood pressure in this case is due to a stressful situation and nervousness during a visit to the doctor. However, such elevated blood pressure readings may be the first indicator of impending hypertension.

My blood pressure monitor gives different results all the time.

Blood pressure is not a constant value, as it depends on the mental and physical condition at a particular point, time of day, and measurement conditions. Therefore, you must measure blood pressure under the same conditions, i.e. try to measure blood pressure at the same time of the day and rest at least 5 minutes before. However, for many people, the pressure rises even though they rest. In this case, it is recommended to measure blood pressure two or three times at intervals of 1 minute and take the average between these measurements. If you are still confused by something, contact your local RosTest office or Metrological laboratory to check your device.

What can I do to prevent external factors from influencing the measurement results?

1. Avoid drinking alcohol and nicotine for an hour before measuring.
2. Do not drink coffee immediately before measurement.
3. The bladder must be empty before the measurement. A full bladder increases the pressure by about 10 mmHg.
4. Do not measure blood pressure if you are experiencing stress, pain, or fear. These factors can alter BP.
5. Make sure the cuff is fitted correctly during measurement. When measuring blood pressure at the shoulder, the border of the cuff should be 2.5 cm above the bend of the elbow. When measuring blood pressure at the wrist, place the cuff 1 cm above the wrist.
6. When measuring blood pressure on the wrist or shoulder, make sure that the measurement site is at the level of the heart, - if the position is shifted by 1.5 cm, - the pressure increases by 1 mmHg.
7. Relax your arm muscles while measuring. Muscle tension increases the pressure by approximately 10 mmHg.
8. Do not talk while measuring. A conversation during measurement can increase the pressure by 6-7 mm Hg. Art.
9. The upper arm should not be pinched by clothing when measuring blood pressure on the shoulder. It is best to remove all clothing from the shoulder.
10. Before measuring on the upper arm, make sure you are wearing the cuff correctly. If you can slip 2 fingers under the cuff from the top and bottom, you can start measuring. If the cuff is too loose or too tight, the results will be either too high or too low, respectively.
11. Rest for at least 1 minute before taking another measurement.
12. Remember that blood pressure is subject to daily biorhythms and can change depending on the time of day and the needs of the body at a particular moment. To obtain comparable results, the best solution is to measure the pressure at the same time of day.

What does high blood pressure mean?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has adopted a new classification of blood pressure levels:

Optimal level< 120/80
Normal< 130/85
Mild hypertension 140-159 / 90-99
Moderate hypertension 160-179 / 100-109
Severe hypertension> 180 and> 110

Is it possible to measure with an oscillometric method with a pacemaker?

In principle, oscillometric measurement is possible in patients with an implanted pacemaker. However, the work of the pacemaker is not captured by the function of determining the pulse of the electronic tonometer. If you get meaningless results or the "ERR" symbol on the screen during the measurement - this is not due to the physiological heart rate, which is set by the pacemaker. In these cases, oscillometric blood pressure measurement is problematic and it is better to measure blood pressure using the Korotkoff method (with a stethoscope or microphone). In any case, you should consult your doctor.

What should be done if a person has a pathological rhythm disorder? How to measure blood pressure?

It is impossible to give general recommendations, since there are a large number of different heart rhythm pathologies that should be considered individually. In principle, oscillometric instruments can accurately measure pressure when pulse signals are discernible. In some arrhythmias, eg irregular heart rate, absolute arrhythmia, oscillometric measurement is not possible due to "lost" and very irregular pulse signals. In this case, a stethoscope should be used. With milder forms or rare episodes of arrhythmia, oscillometric measurement is possible. In case of doubt, measurements should be taken several times at 1-minute intervals and the average of several measurements should be taken. However, each case is different and the details should be discussed with your doctor.

What should be considered when measuring blood pressure during pregnancy?

High blood pressure during pregnancy occurs in about 10% of expectant mothers. Such cases need to be identified and carefully treated. Self-measurement of blood pressure during pregnancy is recommended for every pregnant woman and should be performed both by a doctor during the consultation and at home.

Can I change my medication dosage based on my blood pressure readings?

Choosing the right combination of suitable drugs for the hypertensive patient requires an individualized treatment plan. You should never independently change the dosage of the drug taken and prescribed by the doctor. Regular readings of your blood pressure provide your doctor with valuable information to optimize your individual treatment plan. Record your measurements carefully in a blood pressure diary and discuss possible drug dosage changes with your doctor.

Should I see a doctor regularly if I measure my own blood pressure at home?

Regular home blood pressure measurements will allow your doctor to assess the profile and dynamics of your blood pressure over a period of several weeks or months, and thus allow an optimal change in the therapy plan. Measuring blood pressure at home is not a substitute for required doctor visits.

Why is it necessary to record indicators in a personal blood pressure diary?

A single blood pressure measurement is only a one-time reading and does not provide an accurate picture of blood pressure levels over the course of a day or several days. Therefore, you should measure your blood pressure two or three times a day, always at the same time. Record the results along with the date and time and medications taken in your blood pressure diary. BP readings recorded over a long period of time will provide your doctor with a valuable basis for tailoring individual therapy.

Why may the first blood pressure reading be different from the previous one?

This is due to the "habituation" of the artery to compression. However, it should be borne in mind that the first blood pressure measurement result is rarely true.

Which model is better for an elderly person suffering from hypertension?

Automatic model to measure blood pressure on the shoulder (but not on the wrist). In older adults, the BP measured at the wrist may differ from the BP measured at the brachial artery due to atherosclerosis.

When measuring pressure several times in a row, each subsequent reading is lower than the previous one. Why?

The reason is blood stasis resulting from too short intervals between measurements. It is enough to increase the intervals between measurements to allow blood circulation to be restored.

Measurement of arterial (blood) pressure is necessary not only for hypertension or hypotension, but also for prophylaxis. You can carry out the procedure even at home. No special knowledge is required. It is enough to purchase a tonometer and follow a simple algorithm of actions. The measuring device is automatic, semi-automatic and mechanical. The first 2 options are more convenient, but 3 is a more accurate device. It is able to perform its functions longer and does not require batteries. It is enough for a person to learn how to correctly measure pressure with a mechanical tonometer.

Each person could see how to correctly measure blood pressure by passing a medical examination. The procedure is quite simple and takes no more than 5 minutes. The obtained indicators are influenced by the patient's age, weather, the presence of pathologies and body position, therefore, small deviations from the norm are allowed within the range of 10-15 units.

It is quite simple to understand how to measure blood pressure to yourself using a mechanical tonometer if you familiarize yourself with the following algorithm of actions:

Having figured out how to measure blood pressure without leaving home, you can protect yourself from the development of hypertension or hypotension by periodically using a tonometer. To get more accurate data, it is advisable to remember the following tips:

• When blood pressure is measured for a large person, there are often problems with the size of the cuff. The forearm may be too large. In this case, you will have to purchase a device specifically for the individual characteristics of the structure or go to the hospital for a measurement. In babies, the situation is exactly the opposite. Their arm is too small, so you have to buy a baby cuff.
• Carrying out the procedure for yourself or another person, you must maintain silence and turn off third-party devices that emit sounds in order to hear the tone.
• Before repeating the measurement, be sure to pass at least 3 minutes. The hand was pinched, so it takes time for it to return to normal. Otherwise, the indicators will be overestimated.
• For convenience, the pressure gauge can be hung on clothing when measuring to another person or placed on the table in front of your eyes.

• If it comes to children, then it will be necessary to carry out manipulations associated with the distraction of the child from the procedure. In this case, it is possible to exclude the factor of excitement, which greatly distorts the final figures.

When measuring pressure, another person must independently hold the sound membrane and pressure gauge. Otherwise, the algorithm of actions is no different.

Get the most accurate results

A mechanical blood pressure monitor is considered the most accurate when blood pressure is measured correctly. For a person who decides to learn how to carry out the procedure at home, it is advisable to remember the following nuances:

• decide on a hand for taking measurements;
• familiarize yourself with the list of the most pressing errors;
• prepare for the procedure.

Selecting a limb for measurement

An important nuance is the choice of the hand. A person who wants to measure his blood pressure should not remember which limb the doctor put on the cuff. In any case, both limbs will be involved. Necessary:

• take 5 measurements on each hand with a break of 3 minutes;
• the results must be recorded;
• calculate the average for each hand.

Focusing on the results obtained, it is necessary to make a choice in favor of more. For example, if on the right hand the averages are 118/78, and on the left 125/80, then it is on the second limb that measurements should be taken. Sometimes the values ​​are not actually different. In this case, the main hand rule becomes relevant. Left-handers measure on the right limb, and right-handers - on the left.

The most common mistakes

Despite the simplicity of the procedure, many people manage to make the following mistakes:

1. improper preparation for the procedure (physical activity, drunk coffee, smoked cigarette);
2. rolling up the sleeves of clothing;
3. measurement of pressure with an unsuitable cuff;
4. incorrect position of the hand or the whole body as a whole;
5. releasing air too quickly when listening to noise;
6. non-observance of the break before re-measurement.

The doctor will never make such mistakes, but ordinary people do not pay attention to them, which is why incorrect blood pressure readings are revealed. To prevent oversights, it is necessary to carry out the procedure slowly, follow the algorithm of actions exactly.

Preparing to measure pressure

A person who wants to know the indicators of his blood pressure needs to prepare for the measurement. Compliance with the following rules can help:

• do not smoke or drink alcoholic beverages 1 hour before the procedure;
• find a room where the temperature is from 23 to 26 °;
• go to the toilet before taking a measurement (if you have the urge);
• create a quiet environment in the room.

Even a child can correctly measure blood pressure with a mechanical tonometer, if he follows the algorithm of actions and remembers the training rules and advice drawn up by specialists.

There is no particular difficulty in the procedure, but there are certain nuances that can distort the final indicators. They should be remembered and taken into account when taking measurements. If you have any questions, you can consult with a therapist or cardiologist. The doctor will explain in detail all the details of the process and tell you what mistakes must be avoided.

You may also be interested in:

Pressure measuring devices: typology and features