Blood pressure is one of the most important health indicators and a key parameter to determine an individual’s risk for heart disease, stroke, and other conditions.

The Hellenic Hypertension Company is dedicated to developing accurate and reliable methods for measuring blood pressure, using the latest technology and scientific research to ensure that our products are of the highest quality.

Types of Blood Pressure Measurements

There are two main types of blood pressure measurements: systolic and diastolic. Systolic pressure is the higher number and indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.

Diastolic pressure is the lower number and indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.

Manual Blood Pressure Measurement

Manual blood pressure measurement involves using a stethoscope and an inflatable cuff to measure the pressure in your arteries.

A healthcare professional will wrap the cuff around your upper arm and inflate it to temporarily stop the blood flow, then slowly release the pressure while listening to your heartbeat through the stethoscope. The reading is recorded as the pressure at which the first sound is heard (systolic pressure) and the pressure at which the sound disappears (diastolic pressure).

Automated Blood Pressure Measurement – Oscillometric Method

Oscillometric blood pressure measurement is an automated method that uses an inflatable cuff around your arm and an electronic monitor to detect oscillations in the pressure caused by the pulsing of your blood through your arteries.

This method is widely used in clinical settings and is considered a reliable and accurate way to measure blood pressure.

Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring

Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is a method that involves wearing a portable blood pressure monitor for 24 hours, which takes automatic readings throughout the day and night.

This method is useful for people who have “white coat hypertension” – meaning their blood pressure is elevated during medical appointments, but is otherwise normal – or for those who have symptoms that could be related to changes in blood pressure, such as fainting spells or dizziness.

Home Blood Pressure Monitoring

Home blood pressure monitoring is a convenient and cost-effective method for measuring blood pressure, and is becoming increasingly popular as more people take an active role in managing their health.

It involves using a digital blood pressure monitor – which is similar to the equipment used in clinical settings – to measure blood pressure at home, typically at the same time each day. The readings can be recorded and shared with your healthcare provider to help monitor your blood pressure over time.

Factors that can affect blood pressure measurements

There are several factors that can affect blood pressure measurements, so it’s important to follow the proper procedures and guidelines to get an accurate reading. Some factors to keep in mind include:.

Caffeine: Consuming caffeine, such as in coffee or tea, can temporarily raise blood pressure.
Tobacco: Smoking or using other tobacco products can also temporarily raise blood pressure.
Exercise: Physical activity can raise blood pressure temporarily, so it’s important to wait at least 30 minutes after exercise before taking a blood pressure measurement.
Position: Blood pressure can vary depending on whether you are sitting, standing, or lying down, so it’s important to follow the proper position guidelines when taking a blood pressure measurement.

Conclusion

Measuring blood pressure is an important part of managing your health, and there are several methods available to help monitor your blood pressure over time.

Whether you choose to use a manual or automated method, or you prefer to monitor your blood pressure at home or in a clinical setting, it’s important to follow the proper procedures and guidelines to ensure an accurate reading. The Hellenic Hypertension Company is committed to developing accurate and reliable methods for measuring blood pressure, and we are dedicated to helping people lead healthier lives through better management of their blood pressure.