The silent killer of high blood pressure, often going unnoticed due to its subtle symptoms, is a condition which shouldn’t be ignored.
Known as hypertension, this ailment arises when the force exerted by blood against vessel walls becomes dangerously elevated. Neglecting to manage high blood pressure can precipitate grave health complications, including heart disease and strokes.
Blood pressure readings comprise two figures: the upper (systolic) and lower (diastolic) numbers. The NHS deems a normal reading to typically fall below 120/80 mm Hg.
Many individuals remain unaware of the correct method to self-monitor their blood pressure, but a cardiac nurse has taken to TikTok to share her expertise.
In her video, Angela explains: “I’m a cardiac nurse and you’ve seen some of my videos before about blood pressure, you know I love all things about the heart.”
She adds: “So I’m going to take my blood pressure and show you all the tricks I tell my patients to make sure it’s accurate.”
The nurse advises viewers to sit quietly for around five minutes prior to taking a reading, a crucial step that is frequently missed, to ensure the blood pressure stabilises after any activity.
“Next you’re going to slide your arm in and make sure that tube is pointing down towards your fingers,” she explains. “Pull it nice and tight, sometimes you need a little bit of help with this, make sure it fits and this bit isn’t too floppy or really struggling to be attached.
“Next that little dot should be in line with the middle of your elbow, then we’re going to press start and there you have it. Mine is pretty normal for me there today. If it’s a bit high, take it three times.”
She advised to record the best reading out of these attempts. Angela’s instructional video has since gone viral, amassing 21,400 likes and nearly 1,000 comments.
In response to a query about which arm to use, Angela said: “Yes usually.”
When another user questioned why blood pressure differs between arms, the cardiac nurse noted the right arm is further from the heart, often resulting in a higher reading.
While home monitoring is an option, the NHS recommends seeing a GP if you suspect you’re at risk, especially if you’re over 40 and haven’t had a check-up in more than five years.
