The occurrence of cardiovascular diseases has witnessed a significant surge recently, leading to a growing concern. The “Accidental Deaths & Suicides in India” (ADSI) report, compiled by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), reveals a substantial increase in deaths attributed to cardiovascular diseases in India, with the number remaining consistently high, exceeding 28,000 over the past three years.
Medical experts emphasize the importance of monitoring blood pressure at home as a proactive approach to maintaining cardiovascular health. Dr. Jagadesh Madireddi, Consultant Cardiologist at Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad, highlights how home monitoring enables individuals to track their heart health without the need for frequent hospital visits.
For individuals with hypertension, or high blood pressure (BP), such monitoring is particularly crucial. Dr. Abhinit Gupta, Consultant Cardiologist at Regency Hospital Ltd, stresses that home monitoring empowers hypertensive patients to keep tabs on their condition and evaluate the effectiveness of their treatment. Regular monitoring helps detect changes early, facilitating timely interventions. Dr. Madireddi points out that home measurements tend to be more accurate due to increased relaxation.
Dr. Deepak Sharma, Consultant Pulmonologist at Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, adds that home BP monitoring enables patients to play an active role in managing their health. It helps them identify potential fluctuations in BP and make informed decisions about necessary lifestyle modifications or adjustments to medications.
Incorporating home blood pressure monitoring into one’s routine not only promotes better cardiovascular health but also empowers individuals to take control of their well-being. By being proactive and vigilant, individuals can respond promptly to any changes, contributing to the overall management of their cardiovascular health.
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With an automated cuff:
Dr. Gupta provides a straightforward guide to measuring your blood pressure (BP) at home using an automated cuff, ensuring simplicity and convenience. Follow these steps for accurate and effective BP monitoring:
- Begin by resting for at least 5 minutes in a quiet environment before starting the measurement.
- Sit comfortably with your feet flat on the floor and your back properly supported.
- Position the cuff on your upper arm according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure correct placement.
- Initiate the measurement by pressing the start button on the automated blood pressure monitor.
- The cuff will inflate and subsequently deflate slowly, while the monitor displays your blood pressure readings.
- Take note of both the systolic (higher number) and diastolic (lower number) readings provided by the monitor.
- Repeat the measurement two more times, with a few minutes of rest between each reading, and then calculate the average of the readings for more precise results.
- To track your blood pressure over time, either record the readings in a log or utilize associated smartphone apps, which can provide comprehensive data for better health monitoring.
Following these steps ensures an accurate and comprehensive approach to monitoring your blood pressure at home, enabling you to actively participate in managing your cardiovascular health and making informed decisions regarding lifestyle adjustments or treatment plans.
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With a manual cuff:
Measuring blood pressure manually using a blood pressure cuff with a squeezable balloon requires precise attention to detail. Dr. Sharma outlines the following steps for accurate manual blood pressure measurement:
- Find a comfortable seated or lying position, ensuring you are relaxed, with your arm supported at heart level.
- Place the blood pressure cuff about an inch above your elbow on your upper arm. Ensure it is snug but not overly tight.
- Locate your radial artery on your wrist and palpate it using your fingers to become familiar with your pulse.
- Close the air release valve on the rubber bulb by turning it clockwise.
- Begin inflating the cuff by squeezing the rubber bulb while simultaneously palpating your radial artery.
- Continue squeezing until you no longer feel your pulse in the wrist.
- Gradually release the pressure in the cuff by turning the air release valve counterclockwise.
- Using a stethoscope, positioned over your brachial artery (inside your elbow), listen for the first heartbeat (systolic pressure).
- Keep listening for the sound of the heartbeat, which will eventually fade away (diastolic pressure).
- Take note of the pressure reading on the gauge when you initially hear the heartbeat (systolic) and when the sound disappears (diastolic).
- Wait a few minutes and then repeat the measurement two more times, calculating the average of the readings for more precise and reliable results.
Following these meticulous steps for manual blood pressure measurement helps ensure accurate readings, allowing you to actively monitor your cardiovascular health and make informed decisions regarding your well-being.
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What do your BP levels say about your health:
Blood pressure readings offer crucial insights into the pressure exerted by blood against artery walls during each heart pump. Dr. Gupta underscores that a normal or healthy blood pressure range signifies an efficiently operating cardiovascular system and a decreased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Sharma provides further details on blood pressure ranges, indicating that elevated blood pressure (prehypertension) is within the range of 120-129/80 mmHg. Hypertension, on the other hand, is characterized by a consistent blood pressure reading at or exceeding 130/80 mmHg.
Explaining systolic and diastolic pressure, Dr Madireddi stated, systolic pressure (higher number) is when your heart contracts, while diastolic pressure (lower number) is when your heart relaxes. “While the normal range is around 120/80 mmHg, higher readings signal hypertension or prehypertension, needing attention and lifestyle changes to lower risks.”
Regular monitoring of blood pressure serves as a valuable tool for both individuals and healthcare providers. It aids in early detection of potential health concerns and empowers informed decision-making concerning treatment options and adjustments to one’s lifestyle. This proactive approach contributes to the effective management of cardiovascular health and the reduction of associated risks.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
