Blood pressure machines can indeed give faulty readings. Causes include user error, device calibration, cuff size or placement, and physiological factors. Here’s a concise guide to help you assess and improve accuracy.
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Core ways a BP monitor can be wrong
User error
1. Cuff too loose or not at heart level
2. Speaking, recent exercise, caffeine, or nicotine before measurement
3. Not resting for several minutes prior to measurement
4. Device issues
5. Poor calibration or aging components
6. Inaccurate cuff size for arm circumference
7. Sensor or pump malfunctions in automated devices
8. Physiological factors
9. Recent meals, stress, pain, or dehydration
10. Atrial/arterial conditions that affect readings
Tips for reliable home measurements
Use the correct cuff size: measure your arm and choose a cuff that fits snugly with the inflatable bladder covering about 80% of the arm’s circumference.
Position properly: seated with back supported, feet uncrossed and flat, arm supported at heart level, cuff on bare skin.
Take multiple readings: 2–3 readings one minute apart, and use the average.
Standardize timing: measure at the same times each day, ideally after 5 minutes of rest and before caffeine or smoking.
Check the device: ensure batteries are fresh, or it’s plugged in; verify cuff calibration against a clinician’s device if possible.
Compare with clinic readings: if your home readings consistently differ by 10–15 points or more from your clinician’s measurements, have the device and technique reviewed.
When to seek professional guidance
Readings remain consistently high (e.g., systolic ≥140 or diastolic ≥90) across multiple days and times.
You notice sudden, unexplained changes in readings.
A clinician questions your home monitor’s accuracy or you have a cuff-related pain or symptoms.
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