Blood Pressure Measurement — Understanding It the Right Way

Blood pressure tells us how much force the blood puts on the artery walls every time the heart pushes blood. A digital or manual cuff placed around the upper arm is used to measure it. The device inflates to apply pressure and then records the reading. When an automatic machine is used, the process is known as automated blood pressure measurement.

During your first check-up, blood pressure should ideally be measured in both arms. Later, the arm that gives the higher value should be used for all future readings.

Blood pressure readings are written in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and include two numbers:

What Counts as High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure (hypertension) is diagnosed when the reading is 130/80 mm-Hg or higher. Usually, doctors consider the average of two or more readings on different days before confirming hypertension.

Blood Pressure Stages

If the top number is high but the bottom number is normal, it is called isolated systolic hypertension, which is common in adults over 65.

Tests When High Blood Pressure Is Diagnosed

To identify the cause and prevent risk, a healthcare provider may recommend:

✔ Ambulatory BP Monitoring

Monitors blood pressure automatically for 6 to 24 hours during daily activities.

✔ Laboratory Tests

Blood and urine tests to check:

• Cholesterol

• Blood sugar

• Kidney, thyroid, and liver function

✔ Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)

Checks heart rhythm and electrical activity.

✔ Echocardiogram

Uses sound waves to view heart structure and blood flow.

Monitoring Blood Pressure at Home

Many patients are advised to check blood pressure regularly at home. This helps determine whether treatment and lifestyle changes are working.

For the most accurate results, the American Heart Association recommends an upper-arm cuff monitor.
Wrist and finger monitors are not recommended, as readings may be less reliable.

Managing and Treating High Blood Pressure

Lifestyle Modifications

Naturally supporting blood pressure can begin with:

• Eating a low-salt, heart-friendly diet

• Regular physical activity

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Avoiding smoking

• Limiting alcohol

• Sleeping 7–9 hours every night

At Dr. Tomar’s Wellness, we emphasize that disciplined lifestyle is the first medicine.

When Medication Is Required

Sometimes lifestyle changes are not enough. Doctors may prescribe medicines based on an individual’s health condition. Often, two or more medicines together may work better than one.

Common categories include:

• Diuretics (Water pills)

• ACE Inhibitors

• ARBs

• Calcium Channel Blockers

• Beta Blockers

• Aldosterone Antagonists

• Vasodilators

• Renin Inhibitors

• Centrally Acting Medication

 Never stop BP medications suddenly, especially beta blockers — this may trigger rebound hypertension.

Resistant Hypertension

High blood pressure is considered resistant when:

• Three medicines including a diuretic are used but BP remains high, or

• Four medicines are needed to keep BP under control

In such cases, doctors look for underlying causes and create a more targeted treatment plan.

High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy

If you are pregnant and have high blood pressure, it is very important to work closely with your healthcare provider. Uncontrolled BP can affect both mother and baby.

Research and Future Options

One upcoming method being studied is renal denervation, a technique that targets kidney nerves involved in high BP. Current results are mixed, so more research is needed.

Natural Support at Dr. Tomar’s Wellness

While medical treatment should always be taken as advised by healthcare professionals, herbal formulations can support overall wellness alongside lifestyle changes.

At drtomarswellness.com, we offer electropathy-based wellness formulations that help support:

• Heart health

• Blood circulation

• Stress balance

• Natural detox

• Healthy metabolism

 Not a substitute for emergency medical care — but a natural support system for long-term wellness.

Takeaway

✔ Blood pressure is easy to measure but crucial to monitor
✔ Lifestyle changes are the first line of defense
✔ Medication may be required depending on the condition
✔ Early management prevents heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and more