Preparing For High Blood Pressure Tests

High blood pressure or hypertension is often known as the silent killer, since it typically has no noticeable symptoms. Most of the patients are quite unaware of their condition. Blood pressure left unchecked, generally results in risk of heart failure, heart attack or stroke. If you are above the age of 40 or otherwise at the risk of developing high blood pressure, then you should get your blood pressure checked.

A blood pressure above the reading of 140/90 mmHg (millimeter of mercury) is considered as high blood pressure. Blood pressure can be checked using a manual device know as sphygmomanometer.

The blood pressure of the body changes continually, depending on body movement, diet, emotional state, body posture, physical state, temperature and medicine usage.

If you are preparing for high blood pressure tests, you can follow the following steps to get accurate blood pressure readings.

-Sit relaxed with arms resting on a table. The arm should be bent so that it lies at the same level as that of the heart.

-Wrap the blood pressure cuff at the specified position. Even a slight difference in position or size of cuff can vary the blood pressure result.

-Blood pressure readings vary throughout the day, usually being highest in the morning. It decreases as the day proceeds and is the lowest in the evenings. Thus, for consistent results, measure the blood pressure at the same hours every day.

- Keep a record of blood pressure readings date and time wise.
- Avoid coffee, decongestant medications or cigarettes just before you get your blood pressure checked.

- Avoid doing heavy exercise just before a blood pressure test.

- Avoid taking the blood pressure reading if you are nervous or upset. Complete relaxation is advised before taking a reading.

There are a number of portable digital devices to measure blood pressure that you can use in the convenience of your home.