Blood pressure is one of the most important health numbers — and one of the most commonly mismeasured. A rushed reading, wrong cuff size, talking during measurement, or measuring right after climbing stairs can push readings up and create false “hypertension.”

Hypertension is often symptomless. That makes measurement accuracy a life-or-death detail.

The correct way to measure blood pressure

• Rest quietly for 5 minutes before measuring.
• Sit with back supported, feet flat, arm supported at heart level.
• No talking during measurement.
• Avoid caffeine, smoking, or exercise for at least 30 minutes beforehand.
• Take 2 readings, 1 minute apart, and record both.

What makes readings falsely high

• Measuring immediately after walking, stress, or pain
• Wrong cuff size
• Arm hanging down or unsupported
• Full bladder

What matters more than one number

Trends matter. Repeated high readings over days/weeks carry more meaning than a single clinic reading. If possible, keep a log with dates and times.

Bottom line: You cannot manage what you measure wrong. Correct technique prevents false alarms and catches real risk early.