When we go to the doctor’s office, one of the most common things they do is check our blood pressure. Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood against the walls of our arteries and it’s an important indicator of our overall health.

However, did you know that measuring blood pressure on both sides of the body is equally important?.

What is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is a measure of the pressure that the blood puts on the walls of the arteries as it flows through them. It’s measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). There are two types of blood pressure: systolic and diastolic.

Systolic blood pressure is the pressure when your heart is contracting, while diastolic blood pressure is the pressure when your heart is resting between beats.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition where the blood pressure is consistently elevated over a period of time. This can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

Conversely, low blood pressure, or hypotension, is a condition where blood pressure is too low and can lead to dizziness, fainting, and even shock.

Why is Measuring Blood Pressure on Both Sides Important?

Measuring blood pressure on both arms is important because it can help identify if there are any discrepancies in the readings. In some cases, one arm may have a significantly different reading than the other.

This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as arterial narrowing, an aneurysm, or a blockage.

Related Article Why Measuring Blood Pressure on Both Hands is Important

When there is a difference of 10mmHg or more between the readings in the two arms, it’s known as inter-arm blood pressure difference (IABP). IABP has been linked with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and even death.

By measuring blood pressure on both sides, doctors can identify patients who are at a higher risk for these conditions and monitor them more closely.

How to Measure Blood Pressure on Both Sides?

Measuring blood pressure on both arms is a simple procedure that can be done in your doctor’s office. Here are the steps:.

1. Sit down comfortably and relax for a few minutes.
2. Roll up your sleeves and expose both arms.
3. Place the blood pressure cuff on one arm and inflate it to take the reading.
4. Repeat the process on the other arm.
5. Compare the readings and record them in your chart.

When is Blood Pressure Measured on Both Sides?

Blood pressure can be measured on both arms during routine check-ups or if a patient is experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or chest pain.

It’s also recommended for patients who have been diagnosed with hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or other conditions that increase the risk of heart disease.

The Bottom Line

Blood pressure is an important indicator of our health and can provide valuable insights into our risk for heart disease, stroke, and other serious conditions.

Measuring blood pressure on both arms is a simple and effective way to identify any discrepancies in the readings and monitor patients who are at a higher risk for health problems. So the next time you visit your doctor’s office, don’t forget to request a blood pressure check on both arms.