How to Take Blood Pressure

Prior to a blood pressure being taken, the client should be seated quietly for 5 mins with both feet flat on the floor. No smoking or caffeine 30mins prior.

Systolic (the top reading) – is the pressure exerted on artery walls as heart contracts

Diastolic (the bottom reading) – is the pressure remaining in arteries when the heart relaxes

At least two measures should be taken and averaged out.

This short optional video shows how to take blood pressure safely:

Factors Affecting Blood Pressure

Short Term/Temporary Influences

• Cuff size is too small, the cuff is placed over clothing, forearm unsupported during the reading, arm positioned below the heart
• Emotional state – anxiety & stress can ↑ BP
• Smoking – nicotine is a stimulant ↑ BP
• Alcohol, caffeine, other stimulants ↑ BP
• Exertion – heavy lifting, holding something heavy, exerting force can ↑ BP
• Full bladder can ↑ BP
• Talking while a reading is being taken can ↑ BP
• Dehydration ↑ BP
• Temperature – cold rooms can ↑ BP.

Long-Term Influences

• Regular cardiovascular exercise ↓ BP
• Healthy eating ↓ BP (i.e. sat & trans fats, salt intake)
• Decreasing body fat % ↓ BP
• Genetics/family history can ↑ BP OR ↓ BP
• Medications can ↑ BP OR ↓ BP
• Adrenal and thyroid disorders ↑ BP OR ↓ BP
• Regular overconsumption of alcohol ↓ BP
• Smoking ↓ BP
• Long-term chronic stress ↓ BP
• Peripheral resistance – hardening of arteries ↓ BP
• Overweight / obese / high cholesterol ↓ BP
• Kidney disease, diabetes, anaemia, atherosclerosis ↓ BP.