Blood Pressure question (home monitor)?
I have recently (4 days ago) begun medication for postpartum hypertension. I have a home automatic blood pressure machine. The last several times I have taken it, I took it twice in a row, and got different numbers from the first time, BUT the second number is pretty consistent. My numbers have been
:
1. 119/99, then 123/83 (Yesterday morning)
2. 136/90, then 123/83 (Yesterday afternoon)
3. 130/96, then 123/86 (Yesterday evening)
4. 130/89, then 121/90, then 116/81 (This morning)
So do I pay attention more to the first, or subsequent readings?
The two trials are just a few minutes apart.
Thanks!
Tagged with: Blood • home • Monitor • Pressure • question
Filed under: Female issues
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I would pay more attention to the second readings. You should rest for 10 to 15 minutes before you take your blood pressure. The difference is most likely because you had time to rest before taking the second measurement. Your numbers look good, looks like the medicine is working. Good Luck.
You want to watch the TREND, not individual readings. It is very common to get 2 different readings one after another. That’s normal.
Bp’s change with every movement, arm position, or whatever else is going on.
The “normal” Bp is 120/80. All of yours have been higher. The diastolic (bottom number) should not be over 90. You do have several. If it (bottom number) ever gets over 100, it’s best that you check in with your MD.
You should use the first number. The BP cuff acts as a tourniquet and if you don’t get a good read the first time, and feel like you should do it again, you need to wait 10 minutes, or the reading will be affected by the tourniquet action of the cuff. You may want to talk to your doc to verify, that way, you’ll be more comfortable, and know that you have the correct info!
I would go with the more consistant #’s