Couple questions if anyone can help.

[ElainexxM]

I have high blood pressure, can anyone tell me the right way this is taking right arm or left arm , my right was reading lower than my left so which reading do you use ?? Also i have been put on atenolol 20mg 1 per day , will i need blood test after couple wks to check kidneys ?? Hope someone can help...

[SRMGrandma Volunteer]

It's not abnormal to have a slight difference between arms, but if that difference is more than 10 points either the systolic or diastolic numbers, then you should let your doctor know, as it could signal a problem. As for which to go with, go with the higher number.

[ElainexxM in reply to SRMGrandma]

It was my doctor doing my blood pressure my right arm was lower than the left by more than 10 , she said when i go back in 4 wks to see nurse tell her to do right arm cause its lower.

[CDreamer]

As I am right handed then I always use my left arm. Place the tube near and above the crook in your elbow. Ensure you have been sitting for 5 mins or so before taking your BP, take 3 readings and use the average of the 3 - most machines will give you an average. Try to take at different times of the day. Taking one reading has little real meaning. My husband can get anything from 125/80 - 170/90 in his 3 readings - if you are in AF then it can be even more variable and sometimes won’t even take a reading. Mine usually just shows ‘error’ because I know if I am in AF my BP will fall.

[CDreamer]

I don’t believe Beta Blockers require blood tests? If unsure your GP will advise. But if you have a heart arrythmia then it would be prudent to have annual check up at which bloods would be taken.

[Mrsvemb]

The instruction sheet with my monitor says to take BP on left arm.

Val

[ElainexxM in reply to Mrsvemb]

Thanks.

[Bolander]

I've just bought a new blood pressure monitor from Omron and the instructions say the left arm should be used.

[ElainexxM in reply to Bolander]

Ok thank you.