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What Causes Difference In BP Readings When Taken From Left And Right Side?
Question: Dr. Bhavsar, I am doing fine. Your answer about blood pressure reassured me, but I do have one more question. I take a left arm reading and then a right arm reading. I am always a little higher by 2 to 5 points on my right side and pulse is 1-2 points higher. Why the difference? Is there a blockage to worry about on my right side? Why are they different?
Brief Answer:
This is fine! both arms are rarely the same!
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.
The blood pressure readings are taken by devices. They never give the same reading all the times. Even if you were to repeat the blood pressure measurement for the same arm with the same device, this difference would always be there. We are worried of bigger differences like 10mmHG minimum and not two which should fall with the normal variability of the device for repeated measurements.
There is no reason to get worried about this slight difference. To reassure yourself, measure your blood pressure on the same hand twice and understand that there would always be a difference.
I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thank you so much for using our services and do feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
This is fine! both arms are rarely the same!
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.
The blood pressure readings are taken by devices. They never give the same reading all the times. Even if you were to repeat the blood pressure measurement for the same arm with the same device, this difference would always be there. We are worried of bigger differences like 10mmHG minimum and not two which should fall with the normal variability of the device for repeated measurements.
There is no reason to get worried about this slight difference. To reassure yourself, measure your blood pressure on the same hand twice and understand that there would always be a difference.
I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thank you so much for using our services and do feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Answered by
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