Blood pressure refers to the pressure in the arteries (arteries) of the body’s circulation. It fluctuates between the maximum value (the systolic value) and the minimum value (the diastolic value) with each heartbeat. These values can be determined by measuring blood pressure, an examination that is considered risk-free.
What is blood pressure measurement?
The externally performed indirect blood pressure measurement was developed in 1896 by the Italian physician Scipione Riva-Rocci. The externally performed indirect blood pressure measurement was developed in 1896 by the Italian physician Scipione Riva-Rocci. This is why it is still referred to by the abbreviation RR. This measurement is taken indirectly with the aid of an inflatable cuff – usually on the patient’s arm or leg. Today, however, some modern devices work with electronic pressure transducers. In addition, blood pressure can now also be determined using a transducer that is inserted directly into the bloodstream. This method is now known as direct blood pressure measurement and is only used in intensive care. This is used, for example, in intensive care units and in the operating room to obtain the most accurate, rapid, and permanently displayed results.
Function, effect, and goals
The actual blood pressure measurement is used to obtain more detailed information about the functions of the heart and circulation. This may be necessary in the case of various diseases, but also in the case of surgical interventions and other physical conditions (such as fainting). The type of blood pressure measurement that is more suitable in an individual case usually depends on the information requirement at hand. The best-known measurement method is still indirect blood pressure measurement, which is used in most cases – for example, during preventive medical checkups and many other examinations. A blood pressure monitor consists of an inflatable rubber cuff that can be fitted very precisely to the patient’s arm or leg. The cuff is connected to a manometer and is always inflated so tightly that it no longer allows blood to pass through at the point of application. In the second measuring step, the pressure in the cuff is reduced by the steady release of air, so that above a certain pressure the heart again succeeds in forcing blood into the compressed artery. During this process, it is possible to listen to the flow sounds of the blood using a stethoscope placed over the artery (on the upper arm, for example, in the crook of the elbow). These sounds are produced by the accelerated flow of blood caused by the narrowing of the artery. These sounds can now be evaluated very accurately based on a large amount of available data and knowledge. In direct blood pressure measurement, a measuring needle or even a measuring probe is inserted directly into the blood flow. Thus, the blood flow itself is evaluated and all necessary information is determined from it. In part, this method is somewhat more accurate and safer, but since there is a low risk here, it is only performed during surgical procedures, under medical supervision and in specially equipped hospital wards. Since many diseases show up in their early stages through altered blood pressure, it is recommended to have it measured regularly and at least once a year by a specialist (i.e., for example, by a family doctor). Many people also measure their blood pressure regularly themselves and sometimes even keep records of the values determined. This is particularly useful if there are health reasons or if this has been recommended by the family doctor or another specialist. However, since measurement errors cannot be ruled out in the case of self-measurement by a layperson, it is by no means a substitute for regular check-ups with a specialist or family doctor. Incidentally, the blood pressure normal value is on average 100 plus the patient’s age. However, blood pressure depends on various factors, such as physical condition, the time of day and also the season, and can therefore fluctuate throughout the day. In addition, readings can vary from blood pressure monitor to blood pressure monitor.
Risks, side effects and dangers
Indirect blood pressure measurement is considered to be risk-free and therefore usually does not bring any side effects or dangers. The only risk is incorrect measurements and therefore incorrect values if the measurement is not performed correctly.Since this often happens when measurements are taken at home, for example due to a lack of knowledge or faulty measuring devices, in the worst case it could lead to a situation where blood pressure that is too high or too low is not detected in time – and therefore also the cause behind it. Therefore, the already mentioned regular measurements at the family doctor are important. However, the correct use of a blood pressure monitor can also be learned by a layperson. Numerous general practitioners and specialists offer special consultations here, in which they go through the available measuring devices and also all the necessary procedures that must be observed when measuring blood pressure, step by step. This is particularly useful in cases where the patient is to measure his or her own blood pressure regularly and record it for the doctor. Last but not least, the blood pressure monitor itself is also important. The patient should be able to operate it, the cuff should be comfortable and easy to attach, and the blood pressure value should be easy to read from the display. But since not every measuring device is the right one for every patient, the latter should at best seek professional advice when choosing a suitable blood pressure monitor – for example, from specialist staff at a medical supply store or trusted pharmacy.
