The German Society for Hypertension recommended Blood pressure by sitting and feeling calm and comfortable for a few minutes before measuring blood pressure, in order to measure it correctly.
The association added that it is not permissible to drink coffee or smoke cigarettes before taking the measurement, and to take care to measure blood pressure at the same time of the day, as the usual fluctuations in blood pressure throughout the day can lead to the appearance of incorrect measurement values.
At the level of heart elevation
To obtain accurate measurement results, the blood pressure cuff should also be at heart level. When measuring from the upper arm, the arm should be extended and relaxed on the table, while when measuring from the wrist, the elbow should be supported on the table so that the blood pressure cuff is at heart level.
When measuring blood pressure in the doctor’s office, blood pressure should be less than 130/80 mm Hg for people under 65 years of age.
The association pointed out that wearable devices such as smart watches, fitness bracelets and smart rings, which measure blood pressure, are less accurate and cannot replace accurate measuring devices, but they are useful, as they help monitor blood pressure and give a warning indicator of high values.
Causes and Symptoms
It is worth noting that the causes of high blood pressure lie in genetic factors, smoking, and some diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, and hyperthyroidism, in addition to excessive salt intake.
Symptoms of high blood pressure include headache, dizziness, nosebleeds, fluid retention, flushing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, sleep disturbances, and visual disturbances. It can also occur without causing symptoms for years, which is why it is called the “silent killer.”
A doctor should be consulted immediately upon noticing these symptoms to undergo timely treatment, in order to avoid possible serious consequences such as heart attacks, strokes, and eye and kidney damage.
High blood pressure can be treated with antihypertensive medications, along with following a healthy lifestyle that includes reducing salt intake (less than 5 grams per day), regular exercise and physical activity, and quitting smoking.