Blood Pressure Testing
 A blood pressure reading is derived from measuring
the force of your blood flow against applied
pressure.
Generally, you should see your health care provider
to have your blood pressure tested.
The doctor measures your blood pressure using
an instrument called a sphygmomanometer.
A cuff is placed around your upper arm and inflated.
The inflated cuff compresses a large artery in
the arm, temporarily stopping the flow of blood.
The person measuring your blood pressure will
listen with a stethoscope while slowly releasing
air from the cuff. He or she will listen for
the sound of blood pulsing in the artery, which
can only be heard for a short amount of time.
Your systolic pressure
(top number) is the measurement taken when
the first sound is heard.
Your diastolic pressure (bottom number)
is the measurement taken when the last sound
is heard.
Some people get nervous when they visit the
doctor, which causes their blood pressure to
rise. If this happens to you, your health care
provider may suggest ambulatory blood pressure
monitoring or self-monitoring, so he or she can
get a better idea of your normal daily blood
pressure.
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring
Sometimes a patient's blood pressure behaves erratically, becoming high at
a particular time of day or under certain circumstances. During ambulatory
blood pressure monitoring, a patient wears a small monitor on a belt around
the waist or over the shoulder. This monitor records blood pressure readings
every 15 to 30 minutes while the patient goes about his or her regular
activities. After 24 hours, the monitor is disconnected, the readings are
transferred into a computer and the pattern of blood pressure is analyzed.
Self-monitoring
There are two devices you can use to monitor your blood pressure at home.
The first is a sphygmomanometer, which is similar to the device used by
your health care provider. You also will need a stethoscope to measure
your blood pressure with this device.
Or you may want to consider an electronic
monitor. Once you apply a blood pressure cuff,
the monitor automatically takes a reading and
displays your blood pressure and heart rate.
Ask your doctor which type of monitor is right
for you, and always follow the manufacturer's
instructions for proper use.
Reviewed by: Emile Mohler, MD
Last Updated: December 2001
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