Common Mistakes People Make When Checking Blood Pressure
In today’s world, where stress, a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits are rampant, monitoring blood pressure at home has become a vital part of many people's daily health routines. Using a digital blood pressure monitor or a home-use BP device can bring convenience. Early diagnosis of potential issues and some common BP monitor mistakes can lead to inappropriate readings, resulting in a sense of worry and a false sense of security.
If you are pondering how to check blood pressure correctly, this blog will help you avoid the most common errors people make while taking their blood pressure at home.
- Wearing the wrong cuff size
One of the most common BP monitor mistakes is using the wrong size cuff. If the cuff is too small, it may show a high reading, while a larger cuff will read false BP level. Many digital blood pressure monitors have standard-size cuffs, but not all people have standard-sized arms.
How to correct this error
Use a device whose cuff is adjustable or purchase a cuff that is the correct size for your arm. Brands such as Stergic offer various sizes of cuffs to provide more appropriate readings.
- Improper art positioning
While taking your blood pressure, keep your arm at the level of your heart. It’s held too high or too low in another extremely common BP monitor mistake that sews readings. Improper positioning can cause pressure differences due to gravity and changes in blood flow.
How to correct this error
Sit up straight on the chair, place your arm on a table with it even with your heart, and relax your muscles prior to use. The home-use BP device must be placed around the upper arm, not the wrist or fingers unless otherwise stated.
- Taking Blood pressure readings immediately after eating, drinking or smoking
What you eat just before taking your blood pressure may affect the reading. Alcohol, caffeine, a full meal, or even a cigarette may increase your BP momentarily.
How to avoid this error
Wait for at least 30 minutes after drinking, eating or smoking before using a digital blood pressure monitor. This simple habit will help you achieve an accurate BP reading at home.
- Talking or Walking While taking readings
Laughing, talking or even minimal movement while taking the test can lead to a spike in blood pressure, resulting in a false reading. This is one of the easiest yet most overlooked and common BP monitor mistakes.
How to correct this mistake
Remain quiet and motionless during the test. Breathe normally and avoid crossing your legs or fidgeting. Devices such as Stergic blood pressure machines often have indicators that will tell you if you are moving around too much during a reading.
- Using the device incorrectly
Although digital blood pressure monitors are easy to use, it's best to read the instructions carefully. Losing the cuff, improper inflation, or taking the reading incorrectly can compromise accuracy.
How to prevent this error
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some home-use BP devices include voice prompts or display icons that assist you through the process and inform you about the errors.
- Ignoring battery issues and calibration
As this passes, your digital blood pressure monitor can lose their accuracy if they are not calibrated or when their batteries are run down. Erroneous readings may not be detected until a medical problem arises.
How to prevent this error:
Check the batteries regularly and get the device calibrated every year or recommended by the manufacturer. Renowned brands such as Stergic blood pressure machines are provided with warranties and service centres that include regular checks.
- Not keeping the records of reading-
Failing to record readings while taking them is a common, yet one of the overlooked common BP monitor mistakes. Without records, it is challenging for doctors to interpret patterns or determine drug efficacy.
How to prevent this error:
Keep a BP diary or one of the blood pressure monitors that automatically store readings. Some of these, like the Stergic blood pressure machine, sync with smartphone apps for easy tracking.
Conclusion
Understanding how to check blood pressure correctly is crucial for managing your health. While using a digital blood pressure monitor or home use BP device, serves you its purpose when used accurately. By avoiding these BP monitor errors, you can ensure that you receive the most accurate BP readings at home and take charge of your cardiovascular health.
Whether you are using a basic monitor or a feature-rich one such as the Stergic blood pressure machine, consistency and correct technique are the keys to meaningful results. Take your time, follow the instructions and monitor your BP with care. It is the simplest way to safeguard your well-being.