@michelemaliano7860 My ex wife was like that. If she read about an illness, or heard about someone having an illness then she thought she had it. Taking her temperature and blood pressure 10 times a day and actually making herself sick. If you feel fine .... you're fine!
I enjoy both of you on YT and can use closed captioning. I rarely listen to podcasts. You two make a good team! Thank you for sharing your knowledge, referencing peer reviewed articles, and having fun on your channel!
I have a wrist cuff, and took my measurements over about a three-week span at approximately the same time every evening. It was fairly consistent at about 110/70 with heart rate of 76. I was satisfied with that info, even if not totally accurate. Not bad for a 65 yo woman on no meds.👍🏼
Thank you two for taking the time out to do these short segments mixing the humor with medicine. I’ve always had more confidence in the arm cuff. My blood pressure is not bad but, I wish I had you guys, either one😁 Please keep up the good work and the occasional guest appearance of other specialty docs, much appreciated.
I used an arm cuff for years with good reliable results. I have compared it to my Doctors" machine 3 times and found it to be in agreement. It was also nice to see the numbers decline in conjunction with my Keto diet.
Hi guys from France - absolutely love your work - prefer vids to podcasts - I’m 68 and my kids and friends love your stuff too. I’m a veteran of two stent operations and a carotid endarterectomy with ongoing medication for hypertension - I use a cuff about every three months prior to doctor and cardiologist visits - my cuff gets calibrated occasionally with my doctors old fashioned method and seems pretty accurate. When I do it, I do it as advised, three consecutive times morning and the same before bed on 3 consecutive days thus a total of 18 data points. As an aside I find you need to sit quietly for a minimum of 5-10 mins for consistent results - keep up the good work
We use a wrist cuff. Our cardiologist said even if reading may differ from he gets in his office, the wrist cuff gives a good baseline and info to work with. At least we are keeping track of
We use both the wrist and arm cuff at our dental office for screening of BP. The wrist usually does read higher, but as a screening tool in preventing medical emergencies both do the job. I enjoy your clips on all things medical and would welcome podcasts on current topics and controversies in medicine.
One of you needs to see a Dr. for that high BP. I use the arm one and make sure I don't need to go to the bathroom. Every time that I have tested and was holding in my (you know what) it always goes up 15-20 points. Thank you for the great videos.
Docs you are great! Thank you so much for doing this! It makes so much more sense when you give instructions on how to take blood pressure, I understand it more now! Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedules to teach us. Bless you!
Thank you both. I use an arm cuff, but only recorded twice a day. Testing three times a day makes so much sense. I always thought once or twice was enough depending on what you do prior to checking your pressure. This is great learnings. I know YT can be a lot of work, but I do enjoy them better since I'm of your targeted age group.
you guys are great and go for the podcast I would enjoy it! Your guests are always interesting as well. I am a male over 65 and you answer a lot of things on my mind. Great stuff!!
I use the arm cuff at home and while sitting quiet and relaxed take three measurements to get average reading. At the Dr office the nurse pulls out a wrist cuff and starts up measurement while talking to me and asking questions so no way I can be in calm relaxed mode during measurement. Later, the Dr sees her chart entries and comments the BP is a little high. Hmmm. What's wrong with this picture ?
Yes, I would love to see and listen to your podcasts. The format from today is more improved than having you two standing and talking to another doctor. You come across more relaxed and less awkward than when you are standing.
I love listening to podcasts when I commute, so I would definitely enjoy listening to yours. We have an arm cuff for home readings and it seems to be pretty accurate based on readings at the doctors' offices.
I would absolutely enjoy your podcast, particularly when the topic warrants additional information and perspective as some of them do. However, I'm mindful of your time constraints, and always appreciative of the invaluable work you do.
How does one know if the device you are using is accurate? We replaced ours now the new device's reading is 10 points higher on both the systolic and diastolic reading. Should we visit our GP and test against his equipment? How do we know his is accurate?
Love all your videos. Not sure if I would enjoy podcasts more but I imagine it would depend on the content. I’m hoping you’ll add a vitamin/supplement video and not just individual vitamins, looking for guidance on daily requirements for older female populations trying to maintain a healthy immune system. The amount of information online is overwhelming, hoping you can streamline it! Thank you both, you are fabulous together!
I use a wrist cuff at home, and I do bend my arm and have it at the height of my heart. I do it in the morning before coffee, and in the evening. I seem to be getting fairly confident results.
I have an arm cuff unit. When I bought it I took it to my doctors office with me. I had them use their fancy one and then mine. Of course without telling me what the numbers were. Turned out my unit was 7 points off from the fancy one at the doctors office. Meaning I had to add the 7 to mine to get the same reading. Thanks for these informative videos. I would listen to your podcast!!
I use the wrist cuff…it’s easy to use…so I’m more apt to use it when I need to. I’m not always able to secure the arm band. I take several measurements so I know where my BP is at. An exact number isn’t as important as knowing you’re within the normal BP parameters. Thanks Docs.
You won me over with the Rush, Closer to the Heart comment. Thanks I like the wrist cuff and always check it against the arm cuff when visiting the doc.
I have both wrist and arm cuff. I have taken my BP at home with both -one right after the other. The readings were within a few points of each other for both systolic and diastolic pressures.
I own both types and carry the wrist one in my bag for trips. It’s as simple as like putting on or off a watch, no need to take off long sleeves. My family doctor didn’t like it but ‘calibration’ in his office proofed it’s accuracy, as long as used properly. The doctor preferred arm one has been collecting dust somewhere in the basement.
Very relatable episode. Thanks! I have both the arm cuff and wrist cuff. I just measured with both, 4 times each. The wrist is higher for me by an average of about 7 sys and 2 dia. I've recorded readings over the last couple of years, and the wrist tends to be higher most of the time. I find it can vary quite a bit within the same sitting. I have to control my thoughts when I do it, since certain thoughts tend to elevate my pressure. The calmer I can make myself the better it is. I do get the white coat syndrome when at the doctor's office, where they get a significantly higher pressure. And I tell them, well at home and I'm calm, it's much better 🙂.
Thoroughly enjoyed all of your videos! I have both devices at home and prefer the wrist cuff just out of convenience. The wrist cuff was about 60% of the cost of the arm cuff.
I too was told I had white coat sydrome. When going to a my pcp, dentist, or any phyisican office. But at home it is 119/78. I have two blood pressure cuff like the ones shown on your program. I take my b/p sheet everytime I go to any MD office. My Cardiologist is the one that called this out, reason my pcp wanted to put me on high blood pressure medication due to the high b/p in her office. I went immediately to a Cardiologist to get this straight out. B/P can be miss leading. Scary! Great program!
I use a wrist cuff as it's easier and absolutely I would love you to have a podcast and I would be a regular listener. Thanks docs, love your RUclips videos, so informative.
I measure mine with wrist one. A nurse came and did it with the arm one. Her reading was extremely high. I took mine to the doctor and it was within 5 points of hers.
I use a wrist cuff. I find that eating chocolate or drinking wine raises my blood pressure. Cardio exercise over several days consistently reduces both my blood pressure and my resting heart rate. Thanks for all your great videos and advice.
Arm. Monitored mine twice a day (2x) for a couple weeks in December. Was 137/85, I'm 66yo. Decided it was time to make some changes. Been intermittent fasting (16-18 hours a day), no snacking between meals, no processed foods, more lettuce, but nothing radical food wise. Been taking my blood pressure the past week, now average 120/80 and have lost five pounds. Oh, and added a second 20m walk a day.
Very informative and interesting. In addition to the method (wrist vs. arm), I wonder if there may be variations by brand of meter? Like other products, quality can, and often does, vary.
There are several reasons for high bp readings in a doctors office. 1. They march you back and make you get on a scale. 2. Then they march to a room where they sit you down and strap you up. All the while trying to be funny and making little jokes with the effort to get you to laugh. 3. They push the button and the cuff inflates to an extremely high level to point where my eyes cross. 4. And then they say…..huh, it’s a little high. YA THINK? Like you said, the size of the cuff makes a big difference. If you have a big arm and they use a normal cuff it will give you a higher reading. The old school method of bp taking was only as accurate as the hearing of the person taking it. Since you basically had to listen for the sound of the heartbeat. Poor hearing and you were screwed. I’m guessing that there are way too many people on meds because of false readings due to practitioners carelessness. Not a good thing.
They took my arm reading and every time it's high in the hospital. I didn't realize arm readings weren't supposed to make your arm feel like it would explode or leave red blood vessel spots on the arm after. Thank you for the informative video and sharing.
Hello, I started using the cuff and I do have the arm cuff, they both seem to read the same for me, I do suffer from high blood pressure and I am on medication which my doctor prescribed a new medication in hopes that it will lower my blood pressure. Thank you both for sharing this important information
Having a podcast would be fantastic. Talk about everything 101 and then have a weekly Q&A and monthly FAQ. 30 min each since each commute goes for around 30min. Thank you. Great idea.
Definitely would like a podcast!! Use a wrist blood pressure monitor at home. Have two arm monitor and the cuffs for home use have hard plastic, which Bruises my arms badly and the cuff is too long reaching the armpit and digs in to the sensitive skin. Thank you! 👍
We have both the wrist and arm BP monitors. We keep track of our BP at home and our doctor wanted us to bring them in to check them. We had our BP checked with the automatic arm cuff at the office, then the old-fashioned way with a stethoscope. It was an N=3 experiment, with my wife, the nurse, and me. All four monitors were within 2 points of each other. That's 12 BP measurements all were very close to each other. Our doctor said to keep using our monitors at home. He thought for sure the home monitors would be off.
I use a wrist cuff when I measure. When we were caring for my Stepmom she always felt like she was going to pass out with the arm cuff, so we used the wrist cuff day to day. Better than not measuring!
I have tinnitus and it has been driving me crazy for 2 weeks so I've been hearing it louder and louder I decided to take my blood pressure which was probably not a good idea, I took it on my upper arm and it said my blood pressure was 175 over 107😮 with no other symptoms no dizziness no fainting no chest pains nothing. I took it later on on my forearm instead and it was 135 over 87. I took it on my upper arm again and it was 186 over 102😮. I can also tell you it was much more comfortable and less tight and less painful on my forearm that it was on my upper arm. But I've also seen reply here stating that if you make yourself crazy and you have anxiety overthinking things your blood pressure will rise up and sometimes last for days. Overthinking is not a good thing
Taking my BP daily before coffee. I have white coat syndrome and I am on bp meds so rather than increasing my meds I bring my BP calendar to my doctors appointments. I’m satisfied with the upper arm cuff.
Used both..wrist is nice during travel. I default to the cuff and had mine tested by my Doc to assure accurate. That was amusing, dueling BP monitor's. Look forward to podcasts from you two. Most I subscribe too, film on YT and then share on Spotify. Take care
I just bought a wrist cuff before this and it is consistent….its slightly higher than my oncologist but still good! My aromatase inhibitors increased my BP but it’s now back to normal since going back on Tamoxifen!
I have been using a wrist cuff recently and I do find that it generally gives a higher reading than the arm cuff. Also, I am fighting a head cold, dealing with a minor crisis at home and I not exercising lately. So my blood pressure has been through the roof recently!!! Hopefully I will be able to get it under control soon.
Interesting topic today, as I've been doing a study of my own for three years as of the first of January. Understand that I'm doing this out of curiosity not based on a heart issue. Past blood pressure issue for some time though. How I do it daily, I take the readings four times a day. The first thing when I wake up, two hours after the first reading, mid afternoon and before I go to bed. I have three of the arm type cuffs. Once a month I test them against each other. When taking the readings, I take eight readings. I toss the first two as they are higher than the rest. I then average the next six. These six are usual with in a couple points of each other. My thoughts my blood pressure is what it is, so should be repeatable. If I have an out of character number I drop the high and a low and average the remaining four. I have these records for three years as I said and can produce a weekly, monthly and yearly average. I also document any daily activity which may affect the results. The first reading is always the highest of the day. The second two hours after is always the lowest. Mid afternoon is up a little over the two hour reading and the bedtime reading is usually around the two hour reading. Usually at my Doctors office the readings are higher than relaxed at home. I've taken my equipment to my Doctors office and while there mine are near his arm cuff. One thing I question is the nurse always used the first reading and that is the reading my Doctor medicates by when needed. When that isn't an accurate reflection of my real daily blood pressure. I suspect that is the case in the vast majority of patients. What is your opinion?
Great information. I use arm cuff but I’m one that it squeezes the fat so much it does cause considerable pain so in using the arm cuff I do use in the lower arm. I also keep track of vitals every morning. When I take my BP and it’s either unusually high or low I’ll switch arms and do again. I usually end up doing twice on each side.
I use an arm cuff. This cuff takes the BP 3 times and takes the average of the 3. I also sit for 5 to 10 minutes before taking the BP. I do not cross my legs and do not talk when taking the BP. I do not partake of caffeine.
I would definitely listen to a podcast!!! My doctors offices use the arm cuff mostly with the automatic monitor and my primary care doc's office does it the old fashion way with arm cuff and the med assistant pumping it up and listening. The dentist office uses the wrist cuff and it's always higher. I will take your advice and try to avoid caffeine before appointments. Thanks for all of your informative & entertaining videos!!!
Hello and thanks. I have three arm cuff monitors and two wrist cuff monitors. Measuring BP multiple times a day and all five are fairly consistent in their readings. The reason I such a collection is because I thought the wrist cuffs were inaccurate. Hypertensive pretty much most of my life and taking three meds. Non smoking or drinking not overweight and exercise every day.
My wrist cuff wa reading 127/78 in parking lot...then the arm cuff going in for a research study read 169/101 !!...blew my mind! Between white coat syndrome and an unreliable wrist cuff, im about to stroke out! I'm going to buy an arm cuff now to eliminate the wrist variable. I do research studies and get disqualified because out of range.
I do love podcast, so it is possible that I would listen. I do test blood pressure occasionally, I only have an arm cuff. I have read that you should wait 15 minutes before retesting blood pressure in the same arm.
I have HF and afib and check my blood pressure each morning before coffee. I use a arm cuff and I took my machine to my doctor's to compare with hers. Good to know that mine is accurate. I had a cheaper model that wasn't as accurate which I replaced. I wouldn't listen to a podcast. I really appreciate your RUclips videos! Keep them coming! cheers
I am a nurse and I usually get a manual cuff that you can pump up yourself. Where I work we have either ones like you two used., plus “nurse on a stick”, They are ok until someone drops them! The reliability of them goes down.
i went through five brands of wrist cuffs before I found one that was accurate (checking against my arm cuff).Dr.. Weening... I'm surprised your systolic was not in the stratosphere (said with great fondness) because your energy level before you took your blood pressure using the wrist cuff was pretty high. You're the high energy; Dr. Zalzal is the low key guy. : )
How does using an arm cuff on the lower arm (between the wrist and elbow) compare? I have lipedema in my upper arm so the size and pain from pressure are a factor when taking my BP.
I have also heard that the new BP for elderly people is 103 over 90 can you confirm that? thank you for your awesome videos , watching them all the time.
I really get a lot out of the videos you guys make. I especially like that fact that you are Canadian so I dont have to pay for the helpful information I get from you. I have been tracking my BP since I was in my 30s (77 yo now) and have been on medication all those years. Of course I started with the ancient manometer technology years ago but switched to automated cuffs as soon as the price became reasonable. I had been using an arm cuff for a few years when I noticed that the reading my dentist got with a wrist cuff was essentially the same was what I was getting on my arm cuff device. So I bought a wrist cuff device and compared the results with my arm cuff instrument. I found no difference and have been using an wrist cuff ever since. I do think you have to be a little more careful with wrist cuff but when you do screw up you get a very high result. My wrist cuff has a led that tels me if I have the cuff at the level of my heart and that seemes to be impoortant. The bigger issue is where on your wrist you place the cuff. If you put it too close to your hand it ends up trying to compress the bones in your wrist rather that the soft tissue of your forearm. This almost always gives a higher reading. I have taken my wrist cuff to the doctor's office and compared it to the result they get and they always coorelate within a couple of mm of mercury. I see that much variation with repetitive measurements on my arm cuff at home. Thanks again for the helpful videos
My take is to use the method which makes you the least stressed during the measurement. For me its a wrist cuff. Arm cuffs make my HR increase which leads to inaccuracy. Take a reading 3 times a day for one week to get an accurate picture of what your numbers really are.
Hello Doctors! I use an arm cuff at home, which is consistant with the devices my doctors use. I believe that at-home readings are the most accurate, as I am more relaxed and not tense as I am in a medical office. At home, I can sit quietly for 5 minutes before the readings begin. I am also able to breathe calmly. I have never used a wrist cuff, nor have I ever used handcuffs 😂
I took readings twice a day early in the day and then in the evening at the exact times each day. I did this for 3 weeks so that I could explain to the doctor that my blood pressure was good and normal. When I went to the doctor I took the cuff with me and before I got out of the car I was extremely calm and relaxed and I took the reading and then after I got in to the office and they took my blood, the readings were practically identical!! So that helped me to feel much better about the wrist cuff 🎉
I use a wrist cuff for my BP at home. Sometimes I take my wrist cuff with me to my doctors visit. After they check my BP I check it with my wrist cuff to verify its accuracy. Both usually match. Good Way to check my cuff and ensure I’m using it correctly.
I use the arm cuff but it hurts so much towards the end of its expanding that I actually cry out in pain. I actually dread using it. The reason I'm checking my BP is because I recently had teeth implants (left upper side) and during the procedure (I was sedated) I was told my BP was "a bit high". I'm going to get a wrist cuff as the pain at the end of the check when using the arm cuff is literally killing me!!!!! I'd love to hear your comments on my problem......
I think i read if the range is 10 points of each other is normal, but shouldnt be higher than that for more than three readings, but probs a ton of variables.
I use an Omron brand wrist monitor. Usually the first reading will be a bit high. So I wait a few minutes and the second reading will be lower or “normal.” I do take take prescription BP medication.
I tried an arm cuff first, but it’s difficult to get one on when you’re the only person in the house. I moved to a wrist cuff because my Nurse Practitioner said something was better than nothing and I’m getting decent readings sometimes a little higher than the readings I get in the her office., although this last visit, my wrist cuff reading was lower than my arm cuff reading. 😂
Interesting comparison and, especially, tips. Thanks! Can I ask you to consider another trial using the Aktiaa wrist device. It's a 24/7 device that measures your blood pressure without inflation but, uniquely I think, requires you to calibrate at least monthly using an arm cuff they supply with it. The arm cuff takes 3 measurements while the wrist device is simultaneously supplying data. Once calibrated, the wrist device then provides measurements whenever you're at rest, without need for inflation. Be very very interested in what you think!
@@TalkingWithDocs Not involved with them in any capacity by the way 🤣. Just been using it for a month since starting blood pressure medication and it seems fantastic. 20-30 readings a day that gives you a really clear average, all without any white coat inducing cuff inflation! Of course, though it all depends on how accurate it is! I for one think it's worth calibrating every 1-2 weeks if titrating meds. It's logical to me that the response in your wrist might change as meds kick in.
I use the arm cuff six times a day on my arm and a few times a week on my shins as I have peripheral artery disease. I should ask... is there a better way to test my pressures in my leg? Lately the difference between my arm and leg has been less than 10%, so it's not a huge worry, but I worry about accuracy. As always, thanks for the time and dedication you put into your videos!
Super video Docs. I wonder whether the big difference on the second reading is due to us being advised to wait 5 minutes between each use? Not to be used straight after initial use, until 5 minutes have passed? Just a thought guys.
Sigh! My blood pressure was 180/91 They told me to eat less salt and I had 2 cups of coffee before. This is the highest I have ever had. The doctors told me my blood pressure would go up after Brian Aneurism surgery.....before my blood pressure was low.
Well, I have both an arm cuff and a wrist cuff. I compared readings at home and then discussed this with my doctor and brought the wrist cuff in to see comparative values to the professional arm cuff he uses. We concurred that the wrist cuff was well within the values shown on his arm cuff unit. So…. Calibration confirmed and since I would be more prone to take readings with the wrist cuff due to ease of use…. (also I keep a record of BP readings and oxygen levels from my finger clamp unit on an excel spreadsheet) we both agreed it makes sense to use the wrist cuff at home. It’s nice to track the readings and also calc monthly avg…. Yeah, a touch of OCD here, but that’s the way I function.😅
I have the wrist cuff at home. I’ll admit I haven’t used it in a long time. My blood pressure is usually low, but one time at the Dr. ‘s it was quite low, so the doc asked me to check it once in a while, I have Parkinson’s and sometimes we parkies have low blood pressure.
My take is...... Taking your blood pressure all the time raises your blood pressure.
@michelemaliano7860
My ex wife was like that. If she read about an illness, or heard about someone having an illness then she thought she had it.
Taking her temperature and blood pressure 10 times a day and actually making herself sick.
If you feel fine .... you're fine!
Absolutely I’d listen to podcasts your both my favourite doctors
I agree. It causes anxiety.
Thats me. Before it wasnt like that but now it sends me into a panick@GATORADDAM
So true. Then the mind keep on thinking about it
A unique experience: two people in a RUclips clip being silent for several seconds and still make a lot of sense!
I enjoy both of you on YT and can use closed captioning. I rarely listen to podcasts.
You two make a good team!
Thank you for sharing your knowledge, referencing peer reviewed articles, and having fun on your channel!
I have a wrist cuff, and took my measurements over about a three-week span at approximately the same time every evening. It was fairly consistent at about 110/70 with heart rate of 76. I was satisfied with that info, even if not totally accurate. Not bad for a 65 yo woman on no meds.👍🏼
I bought a wrist cuff for traveling. Yes, following instructions are important.
Thanks for the video.
Nice nails Doc! Go for the podcast. Love the stuff you present
lol!
Thank you two for taking the time out to do these short segments mixing the humor with medicine. I’ve always had more confidence in the arm cuff. My blood pressure is not bad but, I wish I had you guys, either one😁
Please keep up the good work and the occasional guest appearance of other specialty docs, much appreciated.
It is true that an arm bp monitor will be a little better than a wrist or a fingernail one.😅😅
Normally, you'd wait a few minutes between readings. Thank you for all the useful videos
I used an arm cuff for years with good reliable results. I have compared it to my Doctors" machine 3 times and found it to be in agreement. It was also nice to see the numbers decline in conjunction with my Keto diet.
Hi guys from France - absolutely love your work - prefer vids to podcasts - I’m 68 and my kids and friends love your stuff too. I’m a veteran of two stent operations and a carotid endarterectomy with ongoing medication for hypertension - I use a cuff about every three months prior to doctor and cardiologist visits - my cuff gets calibrated occasionally with my doctors old fashioned method and seems pretty accurate. When I do it, I do it as advised, three consecutive times morning and the same before bed on 3 consecutive days thus a total of 18 data points. As an aside I find you need to sit quietly for a minimum of 5-10 mins for consistent results - keep up the good work
I love the podcast idea. I listen to many podcasts while walking or working out at the gym everyday.
Go with podcasts 4 sure! Really appreciate the efforts time and information you provide, keep it flowing, thanks
We use a wrist cuff. Our cardiologist said even if reading may differ from he gets in his office, the wrist cuff gives a good baseline and info to work with. At least we are keeping track of
We use both the wrist and arm cuff at our dental office for screening of BP. The wrist usually does read higher, but as a screening tool in preventing medical emergencies both do the job.
I enjoy your clips on all things medical and would welcome podcasts on current topics and controversies in medicine.
Generally, an upper-arm blood pressure monitor is better because it measures closer to the heart.
One of you needs to see a Dr. for that high BP. I use the arm one and make sure I don't need to go to the bathroom. Every time that I have tested and was holding in my (you know what) it always goes up 15-20 points. Thank you for the great videos.
I understand the thought of the upper arm being the best.
Now we have smart watches. So how do they compare?
Docs you are great! Thank you so much for doing this! It makes so much more sense when you give instructions on how to take blood pressure, I understand it more now! Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedules to teach us. Bless you!
Thank you both. I use an arm cuff, but only recorded twice a day. Testing three times a day makes so much sense. I always thought once or twice was enough depending on what you do prior to checking your pressure. This is great learnings. I know YT can be a lot of work, but I do enjoy them better since I'm of your targeted age group.
I have been watching your podcasts for over a year now. I like the visual personally.
I use the arm cuff, take 3 readings about a minute or two apart, twice a day. I’d definitely listen to a podcast from you two!
you guys are great and go for the podcast I would enjoy it! Your guests are always interesting as well. I am a male over 65 and you answer a lot of things on my mind. Great stuff!!
I use the arm cuff at home and while sitting quiet and relaxed take three measurements to get average reading. At the Dr office the nurse pulls out a wrist cuff and starts up measurement while talking to me and asking questions so no way I can be in calm relaxed mode during measurement. Later, the Dr sees her chart entries and comments the BP is a little high. Hmmm. What's wrong with this picture ?
Yes, I would love to see and listen to your podcasts. The format from today is more improved than having you two standing and talking to another doctor. You come across more relaxed and less awkward than when you are standing.
I love listening to podcasts when I commute, so I would definitely enjoy listening to yours.
We have an arm cuff for home readings and it seems to be pretty accurate based on readings at the doctors' offices.
I would absolutely enjoy your podcast, particularly when the topic warrants additional information and perspective as some of them do. However, I'm mindful of your time constraints, and always appreciative of the invaluable work you do.
How does one know if the device you are using is accurate? We replaced ours now the new device's reading is 10 points higher on both the systolic and diastolic reading. Should we visit our GP and test against his equipment? How do we know his is accurate?
It is hard to know. It is worth comparing to his machine or any other machine for that matter. Or to have it checked manually.
Love all your videos. Not sure if I would enjoy podcasts more but I imagine it would depend on the content.
I’m hoping you’ll add a vitamin/supplement video and not just individual vitamins, looking for guidance on daily requirements for older female populations trying to maintain a healthy immune system. The amount of information online is overwhelming, hoping you can streamline it! Thank you both, you are fabulous together!
Will do our best
I use a wrist cuff at home, and I do bend my arm and have it at the height of my heart. I do it in the morning before coffee, and in the evening. I seem to be getting fairly confident results.
Good stuff!
I have an arm cuff unit. When I bought it I took it to my doctors office with me. I had them use their fancy one and then mine. Of course without telling me what the numbers were. Turned out my unit was 7 points off from the fancy one at the doctors office. Meaning I had to add the 7 to mine to get the same reading. Thanks for these informative videos. I would listen to your podcast!!
I use the wrist cuff…it’s easy to use…so I’m more apt to use it when I need to. I’m not always able to secure the arm band. I take several measurements so I know where my BP is at. An exact number isn’t as important as knowing you’re within the normal BP parameters. Thanks Docs.
You won me over with the Rush, Closer to the Heart comment. Thanks I like the wrist cuff and always check it against the arm cuff when visiting the doc.
I have both wrist and arm cuff. I have taken my BP at home with both -one right after the other. The readings were within a few points of each other for both systolic and diastolic pressures.
I own both types and carry the wrist one in my bag for trips. It’s as simple as like putting on or off a watch, no need to take off long sleeves. My family doctor didn’t like it but ‘calibration’ in his office proofed it’s accuracy, as long as used properly. The doctor preferred arm one has been collecting dust somewhere in the basement.
Yes! do pods casts, great delivery.
Noted!
Very relatable episode. Thanks! I have both the arm cuff and wrist cuff. I just measured with both, 4 times each. The wrist is higher for me by an average of about 7 sys and 2 dia. I've recorded readings over the last couple of years, and the wrist tends to be higher most of the time. I find it can vary quite a bit within the same sitting. I have to control my thoughts when I do it, since certain thoughts tend to elevate my pressure. The calmer I can make myself the better it is. I do get the white coat syndrome when at the doctor's office, where they get a significantly higher pressure. And I tell them, well at home and I'm calm, it's much better 🙂.
That's why it's good to measure your own blood pressure at home if you don't have to. At least you get a peace of mind.😁😁😁😁
Thoroughly enjoyed all of your videos! I have both devices at home and prefer the wrist cuff just out of convenience. The wrist cuff was about 60% of the cost of the arm cuff.
I too was told I had white coat sydrome. When going to a my pcp, dentist, or any phyisican office. But at home it is 119/78. I have two blood pressure cuff like the ones shown on your program. I take my b/p sheet everytime I go to any MD office. My Cardiologist is the one that called this out, reason my pcp wanted to put me on high blood pressure medication due to the high b/p in her office. I went immediately to a Cardiologist to get this straight out. B/P can be miss leading. Scary!
Great program!
I use a wrist cuff as it's easier and absolutely I would love you to have a podcast and I would be a regular listener. Thanks docs, love your RUclips videos, so informative.
Noted!
I measure mine with wrist one.
A nurse came and did it with the arm one. Her reading was extremely high.
I took mine to the doctor and it was within 5 points of hers.
I use a wrist cuff. I find that eating chocolate or drinking wine raises my blood pressure. Cardio exercise over several days consistently reduces both my blood pressure and my resting heart rate. Thanks for all your great videos and advice.
Arm. Monitored mine twice a day (2x) for a couple weeks in December. Was 137/85, I'm 66yo. Decided it was time to make some changes. Been intermittent fasting (16-18 hours a day), no snacking between meals, no processed foods, more lettuce, but nothing radical food wise. Been taking my blood pressure the past week, now average 120/80 and have lost five pounds. Oh, and added a second 20m walk a day.
That’s great!
Very informative and interesting. In addition to the method (wrist vs. arm), I wonder if there may be variations by brand of meter? Like other products, quality can, and often does, vary.
Closer to the heart. Great
There are several reasons for high bp readings in a doctors office.
1. They march you back and make you get on a scale.
2. Then they march to a room where they sit you down and strap you up. All the while trying to be funny and making little jokes with the effort to get you to laugh.
3. They push the button and the cuff inflates to an extremely high level to point where my eyes cross.
4. And then they say…..huh, it’s a little high. YA THINK?
Like you said, the size of the cuff makes a big difference. If you have a big arm and they use a normal cuff it will give you a higher reading.
The old school method of bp taking was only as accurate as the hearing of the person taking it. Since you basically had to listen for the sound of the heartbeat. Poor hearing and you were screwed. I’m guessing that there are way too many people on meds because of false readings due to practitioners carelessness. Not a good thing.
Yes, we have an entire video dedicated to how to take your blood pressure properly
@@TalkingWithDocs So why didn't the guy on the left take the blood pressure using the wrist monitor correctly? Way to high above the heart.
They took my arm reading and every time it's high in the hospital. I didn't realize arm readings weren't supposed to make your arm feel like it would explode or leave red blood vessel spots on the arm after.
Thank you for the informative video and sharing.
Hello, I started using the cuff and I do have the arm cuff, they both seem to read the same for me, I do suffer from high blood pressure and I am on medication which my doctor prescribed a new medication in hopes that it will lower my blood pressure. Thank you both for sharing this important information
Having a podcast would be fantastic. Talk about everything 101 and then have a weekly Q&A and monthly FAQ. 30 min each since each commute goes for around 30min. Thank you. Great idea.
That's a great idea! Thanks for the positive feedback
Definitely would like a podcast!!
Use a wrist blood pressure monitor at home. Have two arm monitor and the cuffs for home use have hard plastic, which Bruises my arms badly and the cuff is too long reaching the armpit and digs in to the sensitive skin. Thank you! 👍
I've used the wrist cuff for several years now and seem to get pretty accurate readings.
I have been saying this for years!!!! Thank you (as always) for doing this!!
You are so welcome!
To answer your question...YES I would definitely watch your podcast ... Keep up the good work, really enjoying your videos
Just had this done on my wrist and it SCARED ME compared to my normal readings! Thank you for letting me know the difference. Whew!
We have both the wrist and arm BP monitors. We keep track of our BP at home and our doctor wanted us to bring them in to check them. We had our BP checked with the automatic arm cuff at the office, then the old-fashioned way with a stethoscope. It was an N=3 experiment, with my wife, the nurse, and me. All four monitors were within 2 points of each other. That's 12 BP measurements all were very close to each other. Our doctor said to keep using our monitors at home. He thought for sure the home monitors would be off.
I use a wrist cuff when I measure. When we were caring for my Stepmom she always felt like she was going to pass out with the arm cuff, so we used the wrist cuff day to day. Better than not measuring!
I have tinnitus and it has been driving me crazy for 2 weeks so I've been hearing it louder and louder I decided to take my blood pressure which was probably not a good idea, I took it on my upper arm and it said my blood pressure was 175 over 107😮 with no other symptoms no dizziness no fainting no chest pains nothing. I took it later on on my forearm instead and it was 135 over 87. I took it on my upper arm again and it was 186 over 102😮. I can also tell you it was much more comfortable and less tight and less painful on my forearm that it was on my upper arm. But I've also seen reply here stating that if you make yourself crazy and you have anxiety overthinking things your blood pressure will rise up and sometimes last for days. Overthinking is not a good thing
I listen to podcasts when I walk every day. I would love to add you two to the mix!
Taking my BP daily before coffee. I have white coat syndrome and I am on bp meds so rather than increasing my meds I bring my BP calendar to my doctors appointments. I’m satisfied with the upper arm cuff.
Nice
I will follow your program anywhere. I have learned so much in the last years from you and as I’m aging I have new syndromes every year! Lol
Used both..wrist is nice during travel. I default to the cuff and had mine tested by my Doc to assure accurate.
That was amusing, dueling BP monitor's.
Look forward to podcasts from you two.
Most I subscribe too, film on YT and then share on Spotify.
Take care
I just bought a wrist cuff before this and it is consistent….its slightly higher than my oncologist but still good! My aromatase inhibitors increased my BP but it’s now back to normal since going back on Tamoxifen!
I have been using a wrist cuff recently and I do find that it generally gives a higher reading than the arm cuff. Also, I am fighting a head cold, dealing with a minor crisis at home and I not exercising lately. So my blood pressure has been through the roof recently!!! Hopefully I will be able to get it under control soon.
Get better!
Interesting topic today, as I've been doing a study of my own for three years as of the first of January. Understand that I'm doing this out of curiosity not based on a heart issue. Past blood pressure issue for some time though. How I do it daily, I take the readings four times a day. The first thing when I wake up, two hours after the first reading, mid afternoon and before I go to bed. I have three of the arm type cuffs. Once a month I test them against each other. When taking the readings, I take eight readings. I toss the first two as they are higher than the rest. I then average the next six. These six are usual with in a couple points of each other. My thoughts my blood pressure is what it is, so should be repeatable. If I have an out of character number I drop the high and a low and average the remaining four. I have these records for three years as I said and can produce a weekly, monthly and yearly average. I also document any daily activity which may affect the results. The first reading is always the highest of the day. The second two hours after is always the lowest. Mid afternoon is up a little over the two hour reading and the bedtime reading is usually around the two hour reading. Usually at my Doctors office the readings are higher than relaxed at home. I've taken my equipment to my Doctors office and while there mine are near his arm cuff. One thing I question is the nurse always used the first reading and that is the reading my Doctor medicates by when needed. When that isn't an accurate reflection of my real daily blood pressure. I suspect that is the case in the vast majority of patients. What is your opinion?
Great information. I use arm cuff but I’m one that it squeezes the fat so much it does cause considerable pain so in using the arm cuff I do use in the lower arm. I also keep track of vitals every morning. When I take my BP and it’s either unusually high or low I’ll switch arms and do again. I usually end up doing twice on each side.
Very nice
I use an arm cuff. This cuff takes the BP 3 times and takes the average of the 3. I also sit for 5 to 10 minutes before taking the BP. I do not cross my legs and do not talk when taking the BP. I do not partake of caffeine.
I would definitely listen to a podcast!!! My doctors offices use the arm cuff mostly with the automatic monitor and my primary care doc's office does it the old fashion way with arm cuff and the med assistant pumping it up and listening. The dentist office uses the wrist cuff and it's always higher. I will take your advice and try to avoid caffeine before appointments. Thanks for all of your informative & entertaining videos!!!
Hello and thanks. I have three arm cuff monitors and two wrist cuff monitors. Measuring BP multiple times a day and all five are fairly consistent in their readings. The reason I such a collection is because I thought the wrist cuffs were inaccurate. Hypertensive pretty much most of my life and taking three meds. Non smoking or drinking not overweight and exercise every day.
My wrist cuff wa reading 127/78 in parking lot...then the arm cuff going in for a research study read 169/101 !!...blew my mind! Between white coat syndrome and an unreliable wrist cuff, im about to stroke out! I'm going to buy an arm cuff now to eliminate the wrist variable. I do research studies and get disqualified because out of range.
I have both at home. They usually are close in the readings.
Nice
I just started using the wrist cuff… I have been working 3rd shift 38 yrs
I do love podcast, so it is possible that I would listen. I do test blood pressure occasionally, I only have an arm cuff. I have read that you should wait 15 minutes before retesting blood pressure in the same arm.
Good advice
I have HF and afib and check my blood pressure each morning before coffee. I use a arm cuff and I took my machine to my doctor's to compare with hers. Good to know that mine is accurate. I had a cheaper model that wasn't as accurate which I replaced. I wouldn't listen to a podcast. I really appreciate your RUclips videos! Keep them coming! cheers
I would definitely listen to a podcast. I find your discussion informative and for perfect for laypersons.
I am a nurse and I usually get a manual cuff that you can pump up yourself. Where I work we have either ones like you two used., plus “nurse on a stick”, They are ok until someone drops them! The reliability of them goes down.
i went through five brands of wrist cuffs before I found one that was accurate (checking against my arm cuff).Dr.. Weening... I'm surprised your systolic was not in the stratosphere (said with great fondness) because your energy level before you took your blood pressure using the wrist cuff was pretty high. You're the high energy; Dr. Zalzal is the low key guy. : )
How does using an arm cuff on the lower arm (between the wrist and elbow) compare? I have lipedema in my upper arm so the size and pain from pressure are a factor when taking my BP.
Likely the wrist cuff would be the best choice for you then
Dr Zalzal, your nails look very nice today...
Good one!
I have also heard that the new BP for elderly people is 103 over 90 can you confirm that? thank you for your awesome videos , watching them all the time.
I really get a lot out of the videos you guys make. I especially like that fact that you are Canadian so I dont have to pay for the helpful information I get from you.
I have been tracking my BP since I was in my 30s (77 yo now) and have been on medication all those years.
Of course I started with the ancient manometer technology years ago but switched to automated cuffs as soon as the price became reasonable.
I had been using an arm cuff for a few years when I noticed that the reading my dentist got with a wrist cuff was essentially the same was what I was getting on my arm cuff device.
So I bought a wrist cuff device and compared the results with my arm cuff instrument.
I found no difference and have been using an wrist cuff ever since.
I do think you have to be a little more careful with wrist cuff but when you do screw up you get a very high result.
My wrist cuff has a led that tels me if I have the cuff at the level of my heart and that seemes to be impoortant. The bigger issue is where on your wrist you place the cuff. If you put it too close to your hand it ends up trying to compress the bones in your wrist rather that the soft tissue of your forearm. This almost always gives a higher reading.
I have taken my wrist cuff to the doctor's office and compared it to the result they get and they always coorelate within a couple of mm of mercury. I see that much variation with repetitive measurements on my arm cuff at home.
Thanks again for the helpful videos
My take is to use the method which makes you the least stressed during the measurement. For me its a wrist cuff. Arm cuffs make my HR increase which leads to inaccuracy. Take a reading 3 times a day for one week to get an accurate picture of what your numbers really are.
Absolutely to a podcast. Awesome material as usual
How long before or after eating should a measurement be taken? Is the measurement affected by the blood required by the stomach for digestion?
Absolutely would listen to a podcast version of your show.
Greetings. I take my blood pressure once a month. I use the arm cuff. Thanks for sharing your knowledge Dr. Zal Zal and Dr. Weening.
Hello Doctors! I use an arm cuff at home, which is consistant with the devices my doctors use. I believe that at-home readings are the most accurate, as I am more relaxed and not tense as I am in a medical office. At home, I can sit quietly for 5 minutes before the readings begin. I am also able to breathe calmly. I have never used a wrist cuff, nor have I ever used handcuffs 😂
I took readings twice a day early in the day and then in the evening at the exact times each day. I did this for 3 weeks so that I could explain to the doctor that my blood pressure was good and normal. When I went to the doctor I took the cuff with me and before I got out of the car I was extremely calm and relaxed and I took the reading and then after I got in to the office and they took my blood, the readings were practically identical!! So that helped me to feel much better about the wrist cuff 🎉
I use a wrist cuff for my BP at home. Sometimes I take my wrist cuff with me to my doctors visit. After they check my BP I check it with my wrist cuff to verify its accuracy. Both usually match. Good Way to check my cuff and ensure I’m using it correctly.
Thanks Docs for this video. The arm cuff seems more accurate from my experience.
Wrist and I’m +40 points for white coat fever. The Dr. was offended thinking he was the nicest guy in the profession.
I use the arm cuff but it hurts so much towards the end of its expanding that I actually cry out in pain. I actually dread using it. The reason I'm checking my BP is because I recently had teeth implants (left upper side) and during the procedure (I was sedated) I was told my BP was "a bit high". I'm going to get a wrist cuff as the pain at the end of the check when using the arm cuff is literally killing me!!!!! I'd love to hear your comments on my problem......
I find when using the same device, I have different readings from the left arm versus the right arm.
I think i read if the range is 10 points of each other is normal, but shouldnt be higher than that for more than three readings, but probs a ton of variables.
Thank you! Very informative!
I use an Omron brand wrist monitor. Usually the first reading will be a bit high. So I wait a few minutes and the second reading will be lower or “normal.” I do take take prescription BP medication.
I tried an arm cuff first, but it’s difficult to get one on when you’re the only person in the house. I moved to a wrist cuff because my Nurse Practitioner said something was better than nothing and I’m getting decent readings sometimes a little higher than the readings I get in the her office., although this last visit, my wrist cuff reading was lower than my arm cuff reading. 😂
Yes, I would listen to your excellent information.
Interesting comparison and, especially, tips. Thanks!
Can I ask you to consider another trial using the Aktiaa wrist device. It's a 24/7 device that measures your blood pressure without inflation but, uniquely I think, requires you to calibrate at least monthly using an arm cuff they supply with it. The arm cuff takes 3 measurements while the wrist device is simultaneously supplying data. Once calibrated, the wrist device then provides measurements whenever you're at rest, without need for inflation. Be very very interested in what you think!
That is interesting. We can look into it
@@TalkingWithDocs Not involved with them in any capacity by the way 🤣. Just been using it for a month since starting blood pressure medication and it seems fantastic. 20-30 readings a day that gives you a really clear average, all without any white coat inducing cuff inflation! Of course, though it all depends on how accurate it is! I for one think it's worth calibrating every 1-2 weeks if titrating meds. It's logical to me that the response in your wrist might change as meds kick in.
I use the arm cuff six times a day on my arm and a few times a week on my shins as I have peripheral artery disease. I should ask... is there a better way to test my pressures in my leg? Lately the difference between my arm and leg has been less than 10%, so it's not a huge worry, but I worry about accuracy. As always, thanks for the time and dedication you put into your videos!
Excellent podcast guys continue
Super video Docs. I wonder whether the big difference on the second reading is due to us being advised to wait 5 minutes between each use? Not to be used straight after initial use, until 5 minutes have passed? Just a thought guys.
Sigh! My blood pressure was 180/91 They told me to eat less salt and I had 2 cups of coffee before. This is the highest I have ever had.
The doctors told me my blood pressure would go up after Brian Aneurism surgery.....before my blood pressure was low.
Well, I have both an arm cuff and a wrist cuff. I compared readings at home and then discussed this with my doctor and brought the wrist cuff in to see comparative values to the professional arm cuff he uses. We concurred that the wrist cuff was well within the values shown on his arm cuff unit. So…. Calibration confirmed and since I would be more prone to take readings with the wrist cuff due to ease of use…. (also I keep a record of BP readings and oxygen levels from my finger clamp unit on an excel spreadsheet) we both agreed it makes sense to use the wrist cuff at home. It’s nice to track the readings and also calc monthly avg…. Yeah, a touch of OCD here, but that’s the way I function.😅
I have the wrist cuff at home. I’ll admit I haven’t used it in a long time. My blood pressure is usually low, but one time at the Dr. ‘s it was quite low, so the doc asked me to check it once in a while, I have Parkinson’s and sometimes we parkies have low blood pressure.