Measure blood pressure: left or right?

Quite a few people have different blood pressure values ​​between the right and left arm. Experts therefore recommend a comparative measurement on both arms. If a measurement difference of more than 10 mmHg is found, the measurement should always be taken on the arm with the higher values.  Small blood pressure differences of up to 10 mmHg between the two upper arms have no pathological significance and are also more common in healthy people. The differences are mostly due to a different muscle density or tension of the muscles of the upper arms.

If there are larger measurement differences, consult a doctor

Larger measurement differences between the arms, on the other hand, can indicate anatomical or pathological peculiarities. The suspicion then arises that the afferent arteries are narrowed on the side with the lower values. In this case, patients should consult their doctor and have the exact causes clarified.

The right measurement technique

Hardly any physiological parameter fluctuates more over the course of a day than blood pressure. In order to be able to compare the measured values ​​with each other, the measurements should therefore always be taken at the same time and under comparable conditions. It is best to measure on a bare arm, at most a light shirt can be kept on. When rolling up the sleeves, however, there should be no jamming bulge.

But the most important rule is: Take a break and relax for a few minutes before measuring, because every effort or excitement causes your blood pressure to rise for a short time.