The cause of hypertension is unknown. Research indicates that the incidence of
hypertension increases with age and body weight. Many people are under the impression that only obese people have
hypertension. This is not the
case. It is important for all healthy
young adults to have their blood pressure recorded on an annual basis. As people age or have difficulty with other
health issues it is extremely important that their blood pressure be monitored
more often.
How to Get an Accurate Blood Pressure Reading
One high blood pressure reading does not necessarily mean
that you are hypertensive. In order to determine that you have high blood
pressure you should take several readings over a few days and then average them
to determine your actual blood pressure.
In order to make sure that your blood pressure reading is
not being affected by extraneous factors you should be aware of the following
things that can affect your blood pressure.
It is very important that the blood pressure cuff fit your
arm correctly when a blood pressure reading is being taken. The cuff should be snug but not tight. If the blood pressure cuff is too tight an
extremely high blood pressure reading can occur.
If your arm circumference is greater than 16 inches your
blood pressure should not be taken using a standard cuff. Instead, a larger cuff should be found or
the standard sized cuff can be placed over the forearm and blood pressure can
be determined by listening to the pulse at the level of the wrist.
You should rest for approximately five minutes prior to
having your blood pressure taken.
You should inform the person taking your blood pressure if
you are taking diet pills, any cold remedies, decongestants or allergy
pills. These medications can elevate
your blood pressure.
You should not smoke or drink caffeine 30 minutes prior to
having your blood pressure checked.
Again, false results may occur.
If possible clothes should not be tight as anything
constricting could possibly affect your blood pressure reading.
In order to achieve an optimal blood pressure reading you
should sit with your back straight, your feet flat on the floor and have your
arm supported at the level of your heart.
You should also be aware that you may suffer from” white
coat syndrome." Research indicates that people often feel anxious, angry
or fearful when they visit their physician, because they feel they will be
reprimanded for their lifestyle. Those
10 extra pounds that you're worried your physician will mention may cause your
blood pressure reading to elevate.
With so many factors and variables that can affect blood
pressure it is important to have an accurate profile of the person’s blood
pressure readings before any decisions regarding treatment are made.