High blood pressure can increase the risk of serious conditions such as heart attacks and strokes. At the same time, it often causes no symptoms for a long period, according to the media outlet Denik.
Some people may experience headaches, dizziness, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
This is why regular blood pressure checks are important, especially for people over the age of 55, among whom high blood pressure is more common.
Home measurements can be more accurate
Several experts recommend measuring blood pressure at home. Nervousness during a visit to the doctor can temporarily raise blood pressure levels.
Also read: What eating flaxseeds every day may do to your cholesterol and blood pressure
This phenomenon is known as white coat syndrome.
To obtain an accurate reading, the measurement should be taken in a calm environment after several minutes of rest.
Coffee, alcohol, smoking, and physical activity should be avoided shortly before the measurement.
Arm position makes a difference
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University examined, according to Denik, how arm position affects blood pressure measurements.
Also read: What your hands can quietly reveal about your heart, liver and overall health
The study included 113 men with an average age of 57.
Participants had their blood pressure measured with their arm in three different positions.
The results showed that readings were higher when the arm rested in the lap or hung down by the side.
The most accurate measurement was obtained when the arm rested on a table at the same height as the heart.
Also read: The home blood pressure mistake 3 in 4 people make, and how much it can skew your reading
According to the researchers, incorrect arm positioning could cause systolic blood pressure readings to appear up to 6.5 mmHg higher than they actually were.
Also read: How many push-ups should you be able to do? The number by age and sex
This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.