A blood pressure reading can be tricky since many factors can influence it; for instance, physical activity, nervousness, certain medications, caffeine or smoking. One must aim to get accurate and reliable measurements to determine the steps ahead. When you’re taking your blood pressure measurements, a new study has found that the position you’re in may also matter. Having said that, here’s what you need to know about the study findings.
Study Findings
According to the study, presented at the American Heart Association's Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2023 in Boston, lying down during blood pressure measurements could give a more accurate reading.
The researchers found that people with high blood pressure, or hypertension, received a better understanding of the risks associated with stroke, heart problems, and mortality while lying down than when they were seated.
Also Read: Measuring Your Blood Pressure Accurately: Expert Shares Tips For At-Home Users
The study involved data of 11,369 participants from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. The researchers took note of their blood pressure measurements while lying down and sitting. It was found those who only experienced high blood pressure while lying down faced a staggering 53% greater risk of developing coronary heart disease, a 51% higher risk of heart failure, a 62% higher risk of stroke, and a 34% increased chance of all-cause mortality compared to individuals with consistently normal blood pressure.
Dr Stephen Juraschek, the lead researcher and associate professor at Harvard Medical School, said that the findings were surprising and suggest that having people lie flat to measure their blood pressure could potentially help identify people who need treatment despite seemingly normal readings taken while seated, notes the American Heart Association (AHA).
However, more research is needed to confirm the hypothesis.
What Counts As An Accurate High Blood Pressure Reading?
An accurate blood pressure reading typically consists of two numbers measured in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) and is expressed as a ratio: systolic pressure over diastolic pressure.
Normal adult blood pressure is often about 120/80 mm Hg but can vary with age and individual health.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hypertension is diagnosed if the BP measured on two different days and the systolic blood pressure readings on both days is ≥140 mmHg and the diastolic blood pressure readings on both days is ≥90 mmHg.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Gaurangi Shah, Consultant - General Medicine, P.D. Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mahim, says, "A one-time high BP reading does not mean hypertension," adding, "Any physical or mental stress can increase your blood pressure. So that doesn’t mean you have hypertension, every individual has high blood pressure at some time in their lifetime. With a single event, you cannot diagnose it as hypertension.
Also Read: Is Headache A Sign Of Low Blood Pressure? Here's How You Can Tell
How To Accurately Check Your Blood Pressure Reading?
Dr Mukesh Mehra, Director - Internal Medicine, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, shares certain steps that can help take accurate blood pressure measurements at home:
- Place the cuff on your bare arm, sit upright with back support and feet flat on the floor, and position your arm at heart level.
- Ensure that the bottom of the cuff aligns with the bend of your elbow.
- Take a few minutes to relax before starting the measurement.
According to the doctor, by adhering to these guidelines, a person can obtain more reliable blood pressure readings, empowering them to monitor their health effects from the comfort of their home.”
