QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON BLOOD PRESSURE
Why is the blood pressure measured at home different from that measured at a hospital?
Blood pressure is susceptible to mental conditions, in particular. When you have a doctor or nurse measure your blood pressure, the pressure value is likely be higher than usual because of concern and nervousness. (The maximal pressure may be 25 to 30 mmHg higher than usual. For some people, it may be 50 mmHg higher than usual.) On the other hand, you may be relaxed at home to obtain a stable
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Why does the blood pressure obtained vary with every measurement?
Our blood pressure is adjusted by the function of auto- matic nerve. Blood pressure differs with every heart beat. We are likely to think that our blood pressure is con- stant, but it varies if you take measurements in repeti- tion. Blood pressure is susceptible to the time of day, such as forenoon and afternoon, season and atmospheric temperature. In addition, blood pressure is easily affected by mental stress or emotional ups and downs. It tends to increase when you feel tension or decrease when you are relaxed.
What is the meaning of measuring blood pressure at home?
Blood pressure measured at home is reliable since it can be measured in a stable and relaxed condition. Doctors lay importance on blood pressure measurements taken at home. It is recommended to measure your blood pres- sure at the same time on a daily basis to record blood pressure variation and consult your family doctor instead of fluctuating between hope and fear at every rise and fall of your blood pressure.
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