Inter Arm Difference in the Blood Pressure and Pulse Rate in Young Adults

Introduction: There is small difference in the blood pressure in the right and left hands. If the difference is more, it indicates presence of heart diseases like congenital heart disease, aortic dissection, peripheral vascular disease, and unilateral neuromuscular abnormalities.

Aim and objectives: The present study was undertaken to observe the variation in the blood pressure variation in right and left arm in young adults.

Materials and Method: A total of 30 young adults including both males and females studying first year BDS were recruited for the study after obtaining the written informed consent. Blood pressure and pulse rate was recorded between 9-10 am in all the participants to avoid diurnal variations. JSB health care digital BP apparatus was used in the present study. All the participants are right handed individuals.

Results: Systolic blood pressure was lower in the left arm when compared with the right arm. However, the difference was not statistically significant. Diastolic blood pressure was lower in the left arm when compared with the right arm. However, the difference was not statistically significant. Pulse rate was lower in the left arm when compared with the right arm. However, the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: Systolic, diastolic pressure and pulse rate was lower in the left arm but the difference was not significant. The study recommends need for further studies in this area to understand the variations in the blood pressure and its implications which help to develop effective diagnostic and management method for hypertension.