

Learn the correct way to have your blood pressure taken, whether you’re getting it checked at the doctor’s office or checking it yourself at home. A reading that says your blood pressure is higher than it actually is may lead to treatment you don’t need.ĭownload Image What is the correct way to measure blood pressure? It’s important to get an accurate blood pressure reading so that you have a clearer picture of your risk for heart disease and stroke.Ī reading that says your blood pressure is lower than it actually is may give you a false sense of security about your health. Crossing your legs and letting your arm droop at your side rather than rest on a table at chest height can make your blood pressure go up. If you smoked, drank alcohol or caffeine, or exercised within 30 minutes of having your blood pressure measured, your reading might be higher.

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