BP Health Tips: Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat provided insightful advice on taking blood pressure correctly at home in an Instagram reel. Underscoring the significance of blood pressure monitoring, particularly for those with hypertension, Dr. Sehrawat underlined three vital factors to guarantee accurate readings.
Pre-Measurement Preparations
When taking blood pressure, Dr. Sehrawat recommended abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine for one hour beforehand. These drugs may raise blood pressure momentarily, leading to erroneous readings. She also suggested giving yourself an hour’s rest after doing strenuous activities like yoga, running, or aerobics. A more consistent baseline is ensured for precise readings throughout this rest period.
Proper Seating Position
Dr. Sehrawat emphasised the importance of proper posture when taking blood pressure, specifically stating that one should sit up straight and place one’s feet flat on the ground. Readings might be impacted by crossing one foot over the other or bending one leg. People can help achieve more accurate blood pressure readings by sitting in an upright and comfortable position.
Correct Cuff Placement
Dr. Sehrawat emphasised the need of appropriate cuff placement, which is arguably one of the most important elements. To achieve the best possible contact with the arm, the cuff should be placed at least two to three fingers above the critical fossa. She also stressed the need of putting the cuff in line with the heart at chest height. By enabling the blood pressure monitor to record information from the viewpoint of the heart, this guarantees reliable results.
The advice provided by Dr. Sehrawat is a useful and approachable tool for people who take their blood pressure at home. People can improve the precision of their blood pressure readings by adopting these easy-to-implement yet crucial habits. For those who have hypertension, routine monitoring is especially important because the condition frequently shows no obvious symptoms.
Disclaimer: This material, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Take the methods, and claims mentioned in this article as suggestions only; DNP India does not confirm or refute them. Consult a doctor before implementing any such suggestions/ treatment/medicine/diet.