Measure it properly or the number is noise
Cuff size, arm position, talking, a full bladder, and caffeine within 30 minutes can each shift a reading by 5–15 mmHg. Home readings taken correctly are more predictive of outcomes than a single clinic measurement.
- • Sit with back supported, feet flat, arm at heart level, for five minutes first.
- • Take two readings a minute apart, morning and evening, for seven days.
- • White-coat hypertension affects up to 20% of people diagnosed in clinic.
FAQ
What is a normal blood pressure?
Under 120 systolic and under 80 diastolic per the ACC/AHA guideline. 120–129 over under 80 is classified as elevated.
What is mean arterial pressure used for?
MAP estimates average perfusion pressure to organs and is used in critical care, where a MAP of at least 65 mmHg is a common target.
Is one high reading hypertension?
No. Diagnosis requires elevated averages across at least two separate occasions, ideally supported by home or ambulatory monitoring.
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