Do you have different pressure on different hands? No wonder. Blood pressure readings often vary on the left and right limbs. And there is nothing abnormal in this. As a rule, doctors in such cases take the maximum figures for blood pressure as indications.
The reasons for the discrepancy in the testimony
Different pressure on different hands may be due to a number of factors. For example, excitement plays an important role. Starting to measure the pressure on the first hand, we are nervous at first, until it comes to the second hand, we calm down, the excitement subsides. Hence, various indications.
This phenomenon has anatomical reasons. Studies show that in most people, especially those who perform physical work, fibrosis occurs in the muscles of the shoulder girdle, as a result of which the so-called neurovascular bundle is impaired. That it can cause the blood pressure on the right hand to rise higher than on the left. Stronger muscles in one of the arms can also affect blood pressure.
Well, of course, all kinds of errors in our body can cause different pressures on different hands: atherosclerotic plaques, circulatory disorders and others.
When should I sound the alarm?
The difference in pressure on the hands according to the tonometer is a warning to the body.
If it does not exceed 5 mm RT. Art., then do not worry. However, if this difference is significant, it is better to consult a doctor.
Differences of up to 10 mm may occur due to atherosclerosis. If the indicators are even higher, differ, for example, by 15-20 mm, then this is fraught with much more dangerous diseases. Vascular defects can be detected in young people, which threatens the older generation with impaired cerebral circulation or, just as seriously, coronary heart disease. Timely detection of abnormalities will help to avoid a stroke or heart attack.
Recent studies by doctors
A new study conducted by British physicians showed that a significant difference in pressure on the two limbs could result in a serious vascular disease with the possibility of death.
Scientists came to the conclusion that a different pressure on different hands of 10 mm between the indicators may be characteristic of a person who has a high risk of serious problems in the peripheral vascular system.
The difference of 15 mm not only indicates the risk of cerebrovascular disease, but also increases by 70% the risk of death from heart disease, and by 60% from various problems in the vascular system.
Diseases of the peripheral vascular system are associated with narrowing and loss of flexibility of the arteries that supply blood to the arms and legs. It happens that such diseases proceed unnoticed, without visible symptoms.
The early detection of pathology is very important because it is possible to reduce the risk by quitting smoking, using the procedure to lower blood pressure or being treated with statins.
Human pressure measurement
To measure the pressure on both hands, it is necessary, first of all, to sit comfortably in a chair, initially check one hand, and after four or five minutes, and the second.
People who have hypertension are simply obliged to know by heart the differences in pressure on both hands that are acceptable for them, because for each, normal indications are set individually. If deviations occur, you must urgently consult a doctor who will help to make a diagnosis and take timely measures for effective treatment.