Did you know that high blood pressure, or hypertension, is the leading cause of a preventable death worldwide? In fact, over 10 million lives are lost to high blood pressure every year, and tragically, only half of this affected population is aware of the condition’s impact on the quality and longevity of their lives.

If hypertension is infamously fatal, then why is a large portion of the population unaware or mistreated for this condition? A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension suggests that a discrepancy could increase by home blood pressure monitoring devices measuring inaccurately up to 70% of the time, causing many hypertensive individuals to go undiagnosed by clinicians.

Here at SunTech, we take great pride in manufacturing quality blood pressure monitors that enable people globally to accurately measure their blood pressure. To ensure correct measurement techniques, we have compiled a list of factors to consider while you are roll up your sleeves and getting to know your numbers.

 

What causes inacurate readings?

 

Cause

 Remedy

Human Contributions

1.      Alcohol or Caffeine consumption within 30 minutes of the measurement.

1.      Refrain from consuming these products within this timeframe. Drink water if you are thirsty.

2.      Talking during the measurement.

2.      It is okay to sit in silence during your measurement even while your physician is talking.

3.      Not resting for 3-5 minutes before a measurement is taken.

3.      Ensure that you rest and relax for 3-5 minutes before each measurement.

Improper Technique

4.      Using the wrong cuff size.

4.      Proper sizing can be achieved through measuring your arm’s circumference or using the index and range markers printed on the cuff.

5.      Misplaced cuff artery marker.

5.      Place the cuff so that the artery marker points to the brachial artery in between your bicep and triceps.

6.      The cuff is not at heart-level during measurement.

6.      Adjust the cuff so it is at heart level during measurement.

Learn more about the importance of accurate blood pressure on the Pan-American Health Organization website here:  https://www.paho.org/en/hearts-americas/hearts-americas-blood-pressure-measurement

And be sure to stay tuned for the next article in our series where we learn how to control blood pressure (now that we have an accurate BP measurement).