What's up with this? - High & Low Blood Pressure Message Board

hindy · 01-05-2007, 08:30 PM

I'm trying to figure out how my bp can drop over 20 points in less then a minute. I start out taking my bp in L arm it is 155/88. I immediately switch to the R arm and it is 125/82, I then switch back and recheck the L arm again, it is now 128/82. I have taken my monitor to the dr's office and it checked out as accurate. I get an initial higher reading every day, anyone know how this could be?

Barbara_Ann · 01-05-2007, 09:33 PM

Could be that initially before taking it you worry just enough that it sends it up some. I've had that happen to me many times but have never worried about it or thought much about it.

TLB50 · 01-05-2007, 10:47 PM

I have the same issue. My BP always drops 20-25 points the 2nd and 3rd time I take it. I also cannot get a low reading at the doctor because of white coat syndrome. I think it is the initial anxiety of taking my BP.

hindy · 01-06-2007, 09:40 PM

I do have a tendency to anxiety, but I don't feel anxious when I take it but maybe I am a nervous nellie at that because I always get a higher bp at the doctor office. It's good to know that others have experienced the same thing, thanks for letting me know.

tfkeel · 01-07-2007, 02:29 PM

My BP is consistently higher in the right arm than in the left by about 10-15 points. My doctor has no concern about this. I don't know why.

I have "white coat syndrome", too. Although I tend not to have it with people who I am well-acquainted, an unfamiliar doctor can send my BP up considerably.