Variable blood pressure measurements on both arms? – Specialist answers

A measurement of blood pressure is one of the most important indicators of cardiovascular health, helping doctors diagnose and treat various diseases. Differences in blood pressure between different parts of the body, such as the arms, can reveal a lot of information about the circulatory system. The normal blood pressure value is around 120/80 mmHg; however, several factors can influence this number, including stress, diet, physical activity, and genetic predisposition.

If significant discrepancies are observed between the two arms during blood pressure measurement, it can be a warning sign that warrants further investigation. Proper background knowledge is essential for interpreting the differences between measurements so that potential problems can be identified in a timely manner. Therefore, different blood pressure values and their discrepancies have serious health implications, and it is worth examining them thoroughly.

The significance of blood pressure differences between the arms

Normally, there can be a difference of 10-15 mmHg between the two arms; however, if a larger difference is observed, it may indicate arterial narrowing. Arterial narrowing signifies a decrease in blood flow, which can lead to various diseases, such as heart attack or stroke. If, during blood pressure measurement, the right arm shows 120/70 mmHg while the left arm shows 150/110 mmHg, immediate medical examination is required.

For doctors, the higher value is the guiding factor in diagnosing hypertension. Since the left arm shows a higher value, it can already be established on this basis that the patient is hypertensive. It is important to emphasize that the discrepancies that arise during measurements are not always due to measurement errors; in many cases, they indicate real problems.

As a first step, doctors typically perform an angiography or ultrasound to assess the condition of the blood vessels in the arms. These procedures can help determine if there are any narrowing that may be obstructing blood flow in the arms. Arterial narrowing, also known as peripheral artery disease, can be asymptomatic for a long time, which is why regular screening and monitoring are extremely important.

Lifestyle changes to normalize blood pressure

The value of 150/110 mmHg determined from the measurements already exceeds the threshold for hypertension, which requires immediate attention. If the patient has no other risk factors, such as diabetes, obesity, or high cholesterol, the primary step is to implement appropriate lifestyle changes.

Regular physical activity is essential for lowering blood pressure. A daily walk, cycling, or swimming for at least half an hour is particularly beneficial for the circulatory system. Additionally, diet plays a key role in managing blood pressure. Avoiding fatty and red meats, as well as increasing the consumption of vegetables, fruits, fish, and vegetable oils, can help lower blood pressure.

Quitting smoking is also essential, as cigarettes are a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Smoking is associated with various conditions, so cessation is recommended for everyone affected.

If the changes do not yield sufficient results, medication may become necessary. Regular monitoring of blood pressure in both arms helps in the timely detection and treatment of pathological vascular changes, thereby reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.