Checking blood pressure at home
About the article
This is a digitised version of an article from The Cayman Compass's print archive. Occasionally, the digitisation process introduces transcription errors, or other problems.
See the article in its original context from October 1997.
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Despite the most careful techniques, physicians are aware that falsely high blood pressure readings are not at all unusual in the doctor's office, and that blood pressure levels taken outside that office or clinic are often much lower or even normal.
This so-called "white coat" high blood pressure is apparently due to the anxiety about seeing a doctor, which is then increased by sitting, and waiting, in that office or clinic. Home monitoring of the blood pressure is therefore a great idea. It makes it easier for people to see to it that the blood pressure is under control, and it saves time and money by reducing the need for office visits. This home checking is of value
both for those people who are not taking medications, but who have had high readings in the past, as well as for those who are taking medication to lower their blood pressure. sure.
Most patients can learn to measure their own blood pressures reliably, or have a friend or family member who can.
A quality arm cuff device must be obtained. This instrument is then brought to the doctor's office to make sure that you know how to use it properly. At this same time the accuracy of the device will be validated against the doctor's calibrated mercury instrument.
I advise against monitors with finger cuffs, as they are subject to much error. Poor circulation in the bands and even the slightest movement of the fingers interferes with accurate readings.
Many studies have demonstrated that home monitoring is the method of choice for determining the effectiveness of the medication being used to control high blood pressure. You now become an interested partner in the understanding of this disorder. No attempt is made to unseat the supremacy of the physician's management, you however now must bring to his/her attention any blood pressure readings that are outside the normal range. Please send your health questions to: Dr. Herb Ebner, P.O. Box 30886 SMB.
