Common Blood Pressure Questions And Answers - BIOS Diagnostics PROTOCOL BD352 Instruction Manual

1.5 Common Blood Pressure Questions and Answers

a) Why is my blood pressure reading always different?
Your blood pressure changes constantly. It is quite normal for blood pressure to fluctuate significantly (50 mmHg to 60
mmHg) throughout the day. Blood pressure is normally lowest at night, but increases during waking hours when the
stress and activities of everyday life are highest.
mmHg
AM Time PM
Your blood pressure also increases and decreases under the following circumstances:
Blood pressure is higher than normal:
• When you are excited, nervous, or tense
• While taking a bath
• During and after exercise or strenuous physical activity
• When it is cold
• Within one hour after meals
• After drinking tea, coffee, or other caffeinated drinks
• After smoking tobacco
• When your bladder is full
Blood pressure is lower than normal:
• After consuming alcohol
• After taking a bath
b) Why is the doctor's reading different from the reading taken at home?
Your blood pressure can vary due to the environment (temperature, nervous condition). When measuring blood
pressure at the doctor's office, it is possible for blood pressure to increase due to anxiety and tension.
c) Why should I monitor blood pressure at home?
One or two readings will not provide a true indication of your normal blood pressure. It is important to take regular,
daily measurements and to keep records over a period of time. This information can be used to assist your physician in
diagnosing and preventing potential health problems.