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BHF - Possible significance of difference in blood pressure between arms

Patients suffering from high blood pressure who have different readings in each arm have a reduced chance of survival over ten years, a study has claimed.

Results showed a nine per cent increase in risk of death for every one mmHg difference in blood pressure between arms.

Maureen Talbot, BHF's Senior Cardiac Nurse, said: “This study supports national guidelines, which recommend that blood pressure readings are taken in both arms. It is normal to have a small difference in your blood pressure readings between arms.

“However, a big difference between your readings may carry risks, so more tests could be needed to check your heart health. If you want to find out your blood pressure, visit your GP or practice nurse to have it measured.”

This study was published in the British Medical Journal.

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