bp different on each arm. is this something to be concerned about?

For example I measure my left arm and it says 110/80. then straight after measure my right and it says 100/70. Usually about 10 points difference. Is this normal?

[Hidden]

Hello

I do believe it can I am sure I have been told that but those examples are good readings so as long as I get a good reading even if different on each arm I am happy x

[JulianM]

My blood pressure device has an option to take 3 readings at set intervals, between 30 seconds and 60 seconds, and to display the average. Early on, a few years back, I used to do the 30 second one, though I currently stick to a single reading on my left arm.

You might find that if you take a series of 3 readings on each arm you'll get a better idea of what is normal variation and whether there's a real difference between them. Not something to do regularly, but as a one-off exercise it could be very informative.

My average BP so far this year is 115/72, which is exactly where I want it to be. The highest is a one-off 129/86 ... if I'd stuck to the 3 readings I guess that figure would not have been recorded - but I am still alive, regardless. My BP figures do motivate me to keep exercising and the daily check reminds me to take my daily low-dose irbesartan, which almost certainly has no effect on my blood pressure.

As I have an aortic condition, I'm aware that in medical emergency, a new and drastic difference in blood pressure between the two arms can be a sign of aortic dissection. Something to check, maybe, while waiting for the ambulance or to suggest to the paramedics, after they've made the arrangements for an urgent CT scan.

However, in the absence of sudden-onset nearly unbearable pain and near-collapse, small differences in blood pressure are trivial.

The big challenge is to keep everything in perspective: good luck with that!

[Molben]

Hello, Bp readings can vary from arm to arm. It isn't a vast difference. Is it always the 2nd arm reading that's higher? If so that could be just due to removing the cuff from one arm to another. Monitor over a couple of weeks, alternate which arm you do first but personally if it was me I wouldn't worry unless it becomes grossly different.

[Hidden in reply to Molben]

Usually 2nd arm is lower. well, my left arm is always slightly higher, right arm is slightly lower. It dont matter which way round i do them

[Molben in reply to Hidden]

To me it all sounds OK but if it is bothering you then perhaps speak to your practice nurse just to put your mind at rest.

[Grayjay]

If you do the left arm twice, I'll bet you get a different reading. Both left and right for yours are OK so don't worry.

[Stentrunner]

I always take 3 readings and the first one is almost always higher. That’s why I take 3!

[am1875]

I’m right handed and mine is sometimes 10 points difference. My cardiologist is at a teaching hospital and they always measure in both arms.