However, to be useful, the number you get has to be accurate.
A normal blood pressure reading for most adults is below 120/80 mmHg.
If a cuff is too small, the blood pressure reading could be higher than it actually is.
AleksandarGeorgiev / Getty Images
If the cuff is too big, the reading can come out lower.
How Is Blood Pressure Cuff Size Measured?
As a result, a regular adult cuff is often used routinely for all patients.
What Does a Poor-Fitting Blood Pressure Cuff Feel Like?
There are certainly facilities and practices that have limited cuff availability.
In general, the cuff should not feel uncomfortably tight before it is inflated to take a reading.
The cuff should wrap snugly and securely around your arm with just enough space to slide two fingertips underneath.
you could also check theU.S.
Blood Pressure Validated gear Listingto see if the gear you have has been validated for clinical accuracy.
If you’re not sure if a cuff is the right fit, ask your provider.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.High blood pressure symptoms and causes.
Published online August 07, 2023. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2023.3264
American Heart Association.Selecting a cuff size.
American Heart Association.Monitoring your blood pressure at home.
2018;7(20).
