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21/03/2012
Early Death Risk Higher When Blood Pressure Differences
A large difference in blood pressure in each arm suggests a bigger risk of dying early, researchers claim.
In a study of 230 it was found the risk of early heart attack and stroke was found to be higher in blood pressure patients with big differences in systolic pressure.
The British Heart Foundation have said more heart health checks may be needed for those with different readings.
It has also been found that not all medics follow national guidance to measure blood pressure in both arms.
Dr Christopher Clark from the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Exeter, who led the study, published in the British Medical Journal, said the message to doctors was simple.
"Sorry guys, but you really need to follow the guidelines by measuring both arms when you're assessing blood pressure," he told the BBC.
He also said that patients monitoring their own blood pressure at home should follow the same guidelines.
"If they are being treated on the basis of their blood pressure, it's important to know if there's a difference between arms so they know their treatment is based on the correct measurements in the future."
People with different readings in each arm may have peripheral vascular disease, which often shows no symptoms.
Stopping smoking, or medication to lower blood pressure or cholesterol, may help reduce the risk of heart problems or stroke in these patients.
In a study of 230 it was found the risk of early heart attack and stroke was found to be higher in blood pressure patients with big differences in systolic pressure.
The British Heart Foundation have said more heart health checks may be needed for those with different readings.
It has also been found that not all medics follow national guidance to measure blood pressure in both arms.
Dr Christopher Clark from the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Exeter, who led the study, published in the British Medical Journal, said the message to doctors was simple.
"Sorry guys, but you really need to follow the guidelines by measuring both arms when you're assessing blood pressure," he told the BBC.
He also said that patients monitoring their own blood pressure at home should follow the same guidelines.
"If they are being treated on the basis of their blood pressure, it's important to know if there's a difference between arms so they know their treatment is based on the correct measurements in the future."
People with different readings in each arm may have peripheral vascular disease, which often shows no symptoms.
Stopping smoking, or medication to lower blood pressure or cholesterol, may help reduce the risk of heart problems or stroke in these patients.
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