May 5, 2018

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The American Heart Association has named May National High Blood Pressure Education month.

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According to a press release from the AHA, mistakes are often made in home or office BP tests, which may lead to inaccurate readings.

“We need to raise awareness among clinicians about the overall benefit of getting an accurate measurement. If we make a concerted effort to get good measurements, that can lead to correct diagnoses, faster treatment and improving blood pressure control rates,” Michael Hochman, MD, MPH, associate professor of clinical medicine at the Keck School of Medicine of USC and a member of the AHA’s Blood Pressure Task Force, said in the release. “Getting an accurate measurement is the first stage in ensuring patients receive the most appropriate care and prevention for heart disease and stroke. High blood pressure is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease in the country. If we can get this one health factor under control, there would be a huge impact on reducing strokes and heart disease.”

According to the release, more BP measurements, including those taken at home, will empower clinical teams to aggressively reduce hypertension prevalence and improve overall CV health in the United States. Clinicians and patients can avoid inaccurate BP readings by looking for these seven common pitfalls:

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Common mistakes in blood pressure measurement can lead to inaccuracies.

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Having a full bladder can add 10 to 15 points to a BP reading;

Slouching, unsupported back/feet can increase a reading by 6 to 10 points. Those undergoing a BP test should ensure that they are in a chair with back supported and feet flat on the floor or a footstool;

An unsupported arm may result in a reading up to 10 points higher. Positioning the arm on a chair or counter will level the measurement cuff with the heart;

Wrapping the cuff over clothing is a common error that can add 5 to 50 points to a reading. Instead, be sure the cuff is placed on a bare arm;

An insufficiently sized cuff may cause a reading to be 2 to 10 points higher. Talking to a health care provider will ensure a proper fit;

Sitting with crossed legs could increase a BP reading 2 to 8 points. It’s best to uncross legs and ensure feet are supported.

Talking, including on the phone, can add 10 points. Staying still and silent during the exam will ensure an accurate measurement.

“These simple things can make a difference in whether or not a person is classified as having high blood pressure that requires treatment,” Hochman said in the release. “Knowing how to measure blood pressure accurately at home, and recognizing mistakes in the physician’s office, can help you manage your pressure and avoid unnecessary medication changes.”