Blood pressure readings can vary on left and right arms

Left vs. Right

It’s a routine part of a doctor visit–getting a blood-pressure reading. Many people even do it at the drugstore while they’re waiting, which is great. It’s important to stay on top of your reading, as high-blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke.

But here’s something new to consider…your right and left arms may have different readings.

That’s right, new research from the UK shows that systolic blood pressure (the top number) can differ by 10 mm Hg or more. That’s a serious difference, as higher numbers may indicate heart disease–even risk of imminent death.

The researchers, from the University of Exeter, published their findings in the prestigious journal The Lancet.

For their study, they combed 20 studies looking at data on patients who obtained blood-pressure readings of both arms. They found that 24% of the patients had at least a 10 mm Hg difference between the left and right arms.

This difference indicates narrowed arteries on one side of the body–and it is a red flag that you may have early-stage heart disease.

The bottom line? Get both arms tested once a year. If you see this disparity, get your pressure checked several more times the same week. That will show whether there’s a pattern or not. And if it is a pattern, you’ve got to take it seriously. Take steps now to lower your risk. My New Hamptons Health Miracle can help not only diabetes, but also risk of heart disease, stroke, and more.


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