Introduction
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as it is pumped from your heart. It is an important indicator of your overall health, as high or low readings can both indicate potential problems. Measuring your blood pressure with a sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff) is the most accurate way to track your blood pressure. However, there are ways to measure your blood pressure without the use of any equipment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Blood Pressure without Equipment
Measuring your blood pressure without the use of a sphygmomanometer is known as palpation. Here are some steps to take when measuring your blood pressure without equipment:
Check Your Pulse
The first step in measuring your blood pressure without equipment is to check your pulse. You can do this by feeling for a strong and steady pulse in either your wrist or your neck. Once you have found the pulse, count the beats over a 15 second period, then multiply that number by 4. This will give you an approximate reading of your systolic blood pressure.
Monitor Your Posture
When measuring your blood pressure without equipment, it is important to sit upright with your feet flat on the floor. Sitting in an incorrect posture can lead to inaccurate readings, so make sure you are comfortable and sitting correctly before taking your reading.
Take Your Time
It is important not to rush the process when measuring your blood pressure without equipment. Take your time to ensure the readings are accurate.
Relax
Make sure to stay relaxed while measuring your blood pressure without equipment. Tensing up can lead to inaccurate results.
Use Your Fingers
Once you have relaxed and are ready to take your reading, place two fingers from one hand on the other wrist, just below the thumb. Feel for the pulse and count the beats over a 15 second period, then multiply by 4. This will give you an approximate reading of your diastolic blood pressure.
Conclusion
Measuring your blood pressure without equipment is possible, though it is not as accurate as using a sphygmomanometer. By following the steps outlined above, you can get a relatively accurate reading of your blood pressure. This method has the added benefit of being able to be done anywhere, anytime, without any additional equipment.
