You may have had your blood pressure checked on your arm during a routine health check-up or at a hospital. Blood pressure readings are generally used to determine whether your BP is high or low. But did you know that blood pressure can also be checked in your leg?
According to the information provided, comparing blood pressure readings from the arm and ankle can offer an indication of possible blockages in the arteries. This can be done using a blood pressure machine at home, although the reading should not be treated as a final diagnosis.
How is blood pressure checked in the leg?
The same blood pressure machine used to check your arm can be used to take a reading around the ankle. First, check your blood pressure on your arm and note the reading. It is suggested to take two readings and record them. Next, place the BP cuff around the leg, above the ankle, and switch on the machine to take the reading. Note both the arm and leg readings so they can be compared.
How can arm and leg BP indicate a blockage?
To calculate the reading, the upper blood pressure value, or systolic reading, from the arm and leg is considered. The lower reading is not used for this calculation. The leg reading is divided by the arm reading. According to the information provided, a result between 1.0 and 1.3 is considered the normal range.
If the reading is above 1.4, it may indicate a risk of arteries becoming stiff or calcified. On the other hand, a reading below 0.9 can indicate a possibility of a blockage in the arteries.
What does a low leg blood pressure reading mean?
If the blood pressure in the leg is lower than the blood pressure in the arm, it could indicate a blockage somewhere in the arteries. However, this test should not be considered a definitive way to rule out or confirm a blockage. A normal reading does not completely rule out the possibility of a blockage. At the same time, a reading below the suggested range can be a warning sign that should not be ignored.
If your reading falls below the normal range, take it seriously and consult a doctor for further evaluation.
Disclaimer: The tips suggested in this article are for general information only. Before starting any fitness programme, making changes to your diet or taking any measure related to a health condition, consult your doctor. India TV does not confirm the authenticity of any claims made in this article.
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