CVS #271243 User manual

Blood Pressure Monitor
MANUAL
INFLATE
Product #271243
Instruction Manual
Instrucciones de Uso
Questions? Preguntas?
1-866-464-6184
PLEASE NOTE:
THIS MEDICAL INSTRUMENT MUST BE USED ACCORDING
TO INSTRUCTIONS TO ENSURE ACCURATE READINGS.

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CVS Semi-automatic Blood Pressure Monitor
Instruction Manual
Table of contents
1. Introduction
1.1 Features of your blood pressure monitor.
1.2 Important information about self-measurement
2. Important information on the subject of blood pressure and its measurement
2.1. How does high/low blood-pressure arise?
2.2. Which values are normal?
2.3. What can be done, if regular high/low values are obtained?
3. Components of your blood pressure monitor
4. Putting your blood pressure monitor into operation
4.1. Inserting the batteries
4.2. Tube connection
4.3. Setting the Time and Date
5. Measurement procedure
5.1. Before a measurement
5.2. Common sources of error
5.3. Fitting the cuff
5.4. Measuring procedure
5.5. Inflating further
5.6. Discontinuing a measurement
5.7. Reading recall - Displaying the last measurement
6. Error messages/troubleshooting
7. Care and maintenance
8. Warranty
9. Certifications
10. Technical specifications
11. How to contact us

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1. Introduction
1.1. Features of your CVS semi-automatic blood pressure monitor, model #271243
Your blood pressure monitor is a semi-automatic, digital blood pressure measuring device for
use on the upper arm. It enables very fast and reliable measurement of the systolic and diastolic
blood pressure as well as the pulse through the oscillometric method of measuring.
The device offers a clinically tested measurement accuracy and has been designed to be user-
friendly.
The large display allows both operational status and cuff pressure to be visible for the entire du-
ration of the measurement.
Beforeusing, please read this instruction manual carefully and then keep it in a safe place.
For further questions on the subject of blood pressure and its measurement, please contact your
doctor.
Attention!
1.2. Important information about self-measurement
• Self-measurement means Control, not diagnosis or treatment. Unusual values must al-
ways be discussed with your doctor. Under no circumstances should you alter the
dosages of any drugs prescribed by your doctor.
•The pulse display is not suitable for checking the frequency of heart pacemakers!
•In cases of irregular heartbeat (Arrhythmia), measurements made with this instrument
should only be evaluated after consultation with your doctor.
Electromagnetic interference:
The device contains sensitive electronic components (Microcomputer). Therefore, avoid strong
electrical or electromagnetic fields in the direct vicinity of the device, such as cellular telephones
and microwave ovens. These devices, when in operation close to your blood pressure monitor,
can lead to temporaryimpairment of the measuring accuracy.
2. Important information on blood pressure and its measurement
2.1. How does high/low blood pressure arise?
Your level of blood pressureis determined in a part of the brain called the circulatory center. This
part of your brain responds to a situation through feedback with the nervous system.To adjust
the blood pressure, the strength and frequency of the heart (Pulse) as well as the width of circu-
latoryblood vessels is altered. Blood vessel width is altered by fine muscles in the blood vessel
walls.
The level of arterial blood pressure changes periodically during heart activity: During blood ejec-
tion from the heart (Systole) the value is maximal (systolic blood pressure value). At the end of
the heart’s ‘rest period’, Diastole or diastolic blood pressure value, blood pressure falls to a low
value. Blood pressure values must lie within certain normal ranges in order to prevent particular
diseases.

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2.2 Which values are normal?
Blood pressure is too high if at rest, your diastolic pressure is above 90mmHg and/or the systolic
blood pressure is over 160mmHg. You should bring these values to the attention of your
doctor immediately. Long-term values at this level endanger your health due to the
associated advancing damage to the blood vessels in your body.
Should the systolic blood pressure values lie between 140mmHg and 160mmHg
and/or the diastolic blood pressure values between 90mmHg and 95mmHg, please
consult your doctor, and check your blood pressure regularly.
With blood pressure values that are too low,i.e. systolic values under 105mmHg
and/or diastolic values under 60mmHg, please consult your doctor.
Even with normal blood pressure values, a regular self-check with your blood pressure monitor is
recommended. In this way you can detect possible changes in your values early and react appro-
priately, in consultation with your physician.
If you are undergoing medical treatment to control your blood pressure, please keep a record of
your blood pressure levels by carrying out regular self-measurements at specific times of the
day. Show these values to your doctor. Never use the results of your measurements to dis-
continue or independently alter the drug doses prescribed by your doctor.
The following standards for assessing high blood pressure (without regard to age) have been
established by the National Institutes of Health JNCVI.
☞Further information
• If your values are mostly standard under resting conditions but exceptionally high under
conditions of physical or psychological stress, it is possible that you aresuffering from so-
called “labile hypertension”. Please consult your doctor if you suspect that this might be the
case.
Warning:
•Diastolic blood pressure values above 120mmHg require immediate medical
treatment.
Category Systolic Diastolic
(mmHg) (mmHg)
Optimal <120 <80
Normal <130 <85
High Normal 130-139 85-89
Hypertension
Stage 1 140-159 90-99
Stage 2 160-179 100-109
Stage 3 ≥180 ≥110

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2.3. What can be done if regular high or low values are obtained?
a) Consult your doctor.
b) Increased blood pressure values (various forms of hypertension) are associated with
considerable health risks over time. Arterial blood vessels in your body are endangered
due to constriction caused by deposits in the vessel walls (Arteriosclerosis). A deficient
supply of blood to important organs (heart, brain, muscles) can result from arterioscle-
rosis. Furthermore, the heart will become structurally damaged with increased blood
pressure values.
c) There are many different causes of high blood pressure. We differentiate between the
common primary (essential) hypertension, and secondary hypertension. The latter group
can be ascribed to specific organic malfunctions. Please consult your doctor for infor-
mation about the possible origins of your own increased blood pressure values.
d) There are measures which you can take to reduce and prevent high blood pressure.
These measures must be permanent lifestyle changes.
A) Eating habits
• Strive for a normal weight corresponding to your age. See your doctor for your ideal
weight.
• Avoid excessive consumption of common salt.
• Avoid fatty foods.
B) Previous illnesses
• Consistently follow all medical instructions for treating illnesses such as:
•Diabetes (Diabetes mellitus or sugar diabetes)
•Fat metabolism disorder
•Gout
C) Habits
• Give up smoking completely
• Drink only moderate amounts of alcohol
• Restrict your caffeine consumption (coffee, tea, chocolate)
D) Physical constitution
• After a preliminarymedical examination, exercise regularly.
• Choose sports which require stamina and avoid those which require strength.
• Avoid reaching the limit of your performance.
• With previous illnesses and/or an age of over 40 years, please consult your doctor be-
fore beginning your sporting activities. He/She will advise you regarding the type and
extent of types of sport that are possible for you.

3. Components of the blood-pressure monitor
a) Measuring unit
b) Upper arm cuffs:
The cuffis for arm circumference
24–34 cm or 9.5” - 13.25” (included)
CVS sells a large cufffor armcircumference 31-41 cm or
12” - 16” (sold separately in all CVS stores)
4. Operation of your blood pressure monitor.
4.1. Inserting the batteries
After you have unpacked your device, insert the
batteries. The batterycompartment is located on the
underside of the device (see illustration).
a) Remove the battery cover.
b) Insert the batteries (4 x size AA 1.5 V), following
the indicated polarity.
c) If the battery warning appears in the display, the
batteries are discharged and must be replaced with new ones.
Attention!
•After the battery warning appears, the device is blocked until
the batteries have been replaced.
•Please use «AA» Long-Life or Alkaline 1.5 V Batteries. The 5
Systolic
Diastolic &
Pulse
ON/OFF
Start
Button
LCD Display
Quick release
valve
Pumping bulb
Cuff
Low battery
indicator
TConnector
Cuff Connection Memory
Button
Set Time and Date

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use of rechargeable batteries is not recommended.
• If your blood pressure monitor is not used for long periods, please remove the batteries
from the device.
Functional check:
Hold on the on/off button down to test all the display elements.
When functioning correctly icons will appear.
4.2. Tube connection
•Cuff
Set up (or check) the tube connections between
cuff, instrument and pump ball as shown in the
diagram.
4.3. Setting the Time and Date
To set the time and date press the Set Time/Date button and hold it down for five seconds. When you
let go the number you'll see a flashing four digit number (probably 2001 or 2002 to 2006). This number
represents the year. Use the MEMORY key to scroll up (you cannot scroll backwards so scroll slowly) to
the correct year. When you reach the correct year stop scrolling and press the Set Time/Date button to
set the year.
After doing this the number flashing will be the month. Again, use the MEMORYkey to scroll to the ap-
propriate month and stop scrolling then press the Set Time/Date button to set the month and move on-
to setting the day. Use the MEMORY key to scroll up to find the correct day of the month and press the
Set Time/Date button to set it.
Now that you've set the correct date, the number flashing will represent the time. The first two digits
arethe hour.Use the MEMORYbutton to scroll through the hours. Note that for morning hours before
noon, there is no AM displayed but after noon PM will display. Again, scroll through the time using the
MEMORYbutton to scroll and the Set Time/Date button to set the time.
5. Measurement Procedure
Please note: You should always be seated before and during measurement
5.1. Before the measurement:
• Avoid eating and smoking as well as all forms of exertion directly before measurement. These fac-
tors influence the measurement result. Find time to relax by sitting in an armchair in a quiet atmos-
pherefor about ten minutes beforemeasurement.
• Remove any garment that fits closely to your upper arm.
•Always measure on the same arm (normally left).
• Always perform measurements at the same time of day, since the blood pressure changes during
the course of the day.

5.2. Common sources of error:
Note:
Comparable blood pressure measurements always require the same conditions!
These are normally quiet conditions.
• Efforts by the patient to support the arm can increase blood pressure. Make sure you are in a com-
fortable, relaxed position and do not activate any of the muscles in the measurement arm during
the measurement. Use a cushion for support and rest your arm on a table.
• If the upper arm artery lies considerably lower or higher than the heart, a false high or low blood
pressure will be measured!
*A variation of 6” between the cuff and heart level can result in a reading error of + or -
10mmHg.
• Cuffs that do not fit properly result in false measurement values. Selecting the correct cuff is ex-
tremely important. The cuff size is dependent upon the circumference or distance around your up-
per armmeasured in the center. The permissible range is printed on the cuff. If this is not suitable
for your use, please contact CVS.
Note: Only use clinically approved Microlife or CVS Cuff Model # 271237.
• A loose cuff or a sideways protruding air-pocket causes false measurement values.
•Measurements should be done after a 5 minute rest to ensure accuracy.
• Consecutive blood pressure measurements should be performed after a 1 minute pause.
5.3. Fitting the cuff
a) Pass the end of the cuff through the flat metal ring so
that a loop is formed. The Velcro closer must be facing
outwards. (Ignorethis step if the cuffhas already been
prepared.)
b) Place the cuffover the left upper armso that the tube
is closer to your lower arm. Align the cuffarterymark
(arrow) over the arm artery than runs down the inner
side of the arm.
c) Lay the cuff on the arm as illustrated. Make certain
that the lower edge of the cuff lies approximately 3/4”
to 1” (2 to 3 cm) above the elbow and that the tube is
closer to the inner side of the arm.
d) Tighten the cuffby pulling the end and close the cuff
by affixing the velcro. Make surethat the cuffIndex
end falls between the OK lines when the cuff is in po-
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tube

sition. If it doesn’t, you are using the wrong cuff size.
e) There should be little free space between the arm and
the cuff. You should be able to fit 2 fingers between
your arm and the cuff. Clothing must not restrict the
arm. Any piece of clothing which does must be re-
moved.
f) Lay your arm on a table (palm upward) so the cuff is at
the same height as the heart. Make sure that the tube
is not kinked.
g) Remain seated quietly for five minutes before you be-
gin the measurement.
Comment:
If it is not possible to fit the cuff to the left arm,
it can also be placed on your right arm. However,
all measurements should be made using the
same arm.
5.4. Measuring procedure
After the cuff has been appropriately positioned, the
measurement can begin:
a) Switch on the instrument by pressing the On/Off/START
button. Many icons appear in the display for 2 seconds: (Di-
ag.)., A short triple beep follows to indicate that the instru-
ment is ready.
A«0» is shown in the display.
b) Grasp the pump ball with your free hand and Inflate the cuff
toapressure at least 40 mmHg higher than the expected
systolic pressure. If you do not know the value of this pres-
sure, inflate to a value of approximately 160–180 mmHg.
The cuffpressureisshown continuously on the display.
8
SYSTOLIC
mmHg
DIASTOLIC
mmHg
PULSE
/min
SYSTOLIC
mmHg
DIASTOLIC
mmHg
PULSE
/min

c) After the inflation process lay down the pump
ball and remain in a quiet and relaxed sitting position. The
measurement now proceeds on its own.
If no measurement takes place and all that appears in the
display is a flashing, upwards pointing arrow, pump the ball
once again and inflate to a higher pressure «Inflate further».
When the instrument detects a pulse, a heart symbol in the
display starts to flash and a beep is heard for every heart
beat.
d) When the measurement has been concluded, a long beep
tone sounds. The measured systolic and diastolic blood
pressure values as well as the pulse are now displayed.
The cuff pressure can now be quickly released by pressing
the release valve at the pump ball.
5.5. Inflating further
If the cuff is not inflated sufficiently, the measure-
ment is stopped after a few seconds and a flashing
arrow pointing upwards appears in the display.
It is then necessaryto inflate at least 20 mmHg
higher than the previous value.
The instruction to inflate further can appear several
times if the pressure is still not sufficient.
Attention:
If the cuff is inflated too far (over 300 mmHg), «HI»
appears in the display and a warning signal is
sounded. The cuff pressure must then be immedi-
ately released using the quick-release valve at the
pump ball!
As soon as the cuff is inflated sufficiently and the
measurement is proceeding, continue as described
under points c + d.
5.6. Discontinuing a measurement
If it is necessary to interrupt a blood pressure mea-
surement for any reason, press the quick release
valve at the pump ball. The device immediately low-
ers the cuff-pressure automatically.
9
SYSTOLIC
mmHg
DIASTOLIC
mmHg
PULSE
/min
SYSTOLIC
mmHg
DIASTOLIC
mmHg
PULSE
/min
SYSTOLIC
mmHg
DIASTOLIC
mmHg
PULSE
/min
SYSTOLIC
mmHg
DIASTOLIC
mmHg
PULSE
/min

5.7. Reading Recall - Displaying the last measurement
The measured results are stored in the instrument. This unit
stores 30 measurements. You can call up the stored values at
any time by pressing the MEMORY button. The first memory dis-
played will be the most recent measurement taken. Keep push-
ing the button to scroll back through memories.
☞Further information
Measurements should not occur soon after each other, to ensure accurate readings. Wait at least
1minute in a relaxed position, sitting or lying, before you repeat a measurement.
6. Error messages/Troubleshooting
If an error occurs during a measurement, the measure-
ment is discontinued and a corresponding error code is
displayed.
(example: error no. 1)
Error No. Possible cause(s)
ER 1 The systolic pressure was determined but afterwards
the cuff pressure fell below 20 mmHg. The tube may
have become unplugged.
Further possible cause: No pulse was detected.
ER 2 The pressure dropped below 20 mmHg without a mea-
surement taking place. The Release valve was pressed
or the arm moved during the measurement.
ER 5 Unit detected an unacceptable difference between sys-
tolic and diastolic pressures. Take another reading.
Contact your doctor if this continues.
10
SYSTOLIC
mmHg
DIASTOLIC
mmHg
PULSE
/min
MR
SYSTOLIC
mmHg
DIASTOLIC
mmHg
PULSE
/min

Other possible malfunctions and possible solutions:
The device frequently fails to measure the blood 1. Fit the cuff correctly on the arm.
pressure values, or the values measured are too 2. Before starting a measurement
low (too high). make sure that the cuff is not fitted
too tightly. Ensure clothing is not
exerting pressure on the arm above
the measuring position. Take off
articles of clothing if necessary.
3. Measure blood pressure again in
complete peace and quiet.
Every measurement results in different values, • Blood pressure changes
although the device functions normally and normal continually. Your readings may be
values are displayed. accurate. Consult your doctor.
The blood pressurevalues measured differ form • Record the daily development of the
those measured by the doctor values and consult your doctor
about them.
•Anxiety during a doctor visit can
result in higher readings.
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Malfunction Remedy
The display remains blank when the instrument 1. Check battery polarity
is switched on although the batteries are in place. and correct if necessary.
2. If the display is unusual, remove
the batteries and insert
new batteries.
The pressure does not rise although you • Check the connection of the cuff
are pumping the inflation ball. tube and connect properly if
necessary.

7. Care and maintenance
a) Do not expose the device to either extreme temper-
atures, humidity, dust or direct sunlight.
b) The cuff contains a sensitive air-tight bubble. Han-
dle this carefully and avoid all types of straining
through twisting or buckling.
c) Clean the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use
gas, thinners or similar solvents. Spots on the cuff
can be removed carefully with a damp cloth and
soapsuds. The cuff must not be washed in a
dishwasher, clothes washer, or submerged in
water.
d) Handle the tube carefully. Do not pull on it. Do not
allow the tubing to kink and keep it away from
sharp edges.
e) Do not drop the monitor or treat it roughly in any
way. Avoid strong vibrations.
f) Never open the monitor! This invalidates the
manufacturer’s warranty.
☞Further information
Blood pressureis subject to fluctuations even in healthy people.
Comparable measurements always require the same conditions (quiet condi-
tions)! If fluctuations in readings are larger than 15mmHg, and/or you hear irreg-
ular pulse tones, consult your doctor. In order to receive market clearance from gov-
ernmental bodies, this device was subjected to strict clinical tests. The computer program
used to measure blood pressure values was tested by experienced cardiac specialists in
Germany.
The manufacture of your CVS blood pressure monitor is in accordance with the terms of
the European standard for blood pressure measuring devices (see technical data) under the
supervision of the Technical Monitoring Association Esses (RWTüV-Essen).
Never attempt to repair the instrument yourself!
Any unauthorized opening of the instrument invalidates all warranty claims!
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Gasoline

8. Warranty
Your CVS blood pressure monitor is guaranteed for a lifetime against manufacturers’
defects for the original purchaser only, from date of purchase. The warranty does not apply
to damage caused by improper handling, accidents, professional use, not following the op-
erating instructions or alterations made to the instrument by third parties.
There are no user serviceable parts inside. Batteries or damage from old batteries is not
covered by the warranty. The warranty is only valid upon completion and delivery of the
warranty card to address on the enclosed warranty card.
Please call toll free 1-866-464-6184 or email [email protected] for warran-
ty claims.
Please note: According to international standards, your monitor should be
checked for calibration every 2 years.
9. Certifications
Device standard: This device is manufactured to meet the
European and United States standards for
non-invasive blood pressure monitors
EN1060-1 / 1995
EN1060-3 / 1997
DIN 58130, NIBP – clinical investigation
ANSI / AAMI SP10, NIBP – requirements
Electromagnetic compatibility: Device fulfills the stipulations of the
European standard EN 60601-1-2
Clinical testing: Clinical performance tests werecarried out
in the US and Germany according to the
DIN 58130/1997
procedure N6 (sequential) and AAMI stan-
dard(US).
The stipulations of the EU-Guidelines 93/42/EWG for Medical Products Class IIa have
been fulfilled.
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10. Technical specifications:
Weight: 465 g (with batteries)
Size: 131 (W) x 174 (L) x 73 (H) mm
Storage temperature: –5 to +50°C
Humidity: 15 to 85% relative humidity maximum
Operation temperature: 10 to 40°C
Display: LCD-Display (Liquid Crystal Display)
Measuring method: oscillometric
Pressure sensor: capacitive
Measuring range:
SYS/DIA: 30 to 280 mmHg
Pulse: 40 to 200 per minute
Cuff pressure display range: 0–299 mmHg
Memory: Stores last 30 measurments automatically
Measuring resolution: 1mmHg
Accuracy: Pressure within ± 3 mmHg
Pulse ± 5 % of the reading
Power source: a) 4 dry cells (batteries) UM-3,
size AA, 1.5 V
b) AC adaptor 6 V DC 600 mA
(voltage 4.5 V DC to 6 V DC)
Accessories: regular cuff for arm circumference
9.5”-13.25”
large cufffor armcircumference 12”-16”
Made in China
Technical alterations reserved!
11. How to contact us:
Distributed by:
CVS Pharmacy,Inc.
Woonsocket, RI 02895
©2004 CVS/pharmacy
Toll Free: 1-866-464-6184
Email: [email protected]
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Tensiómetro semi-automático
Manual de instrucciones
Tabla de contenido
1. Introducción
1.1. Características del modelo
1.2. Información importante sobre las automediciones
2. Informaciones importantes sobre la tensión arterial y su medición
2.1. ¿Cómo se origina la tensión arterial alta/baja?
2.2. ¿Cuáles son los valores normales?
2.3. ¿Qué podemos hacer si se miden regularmente valores altos/bajos?
3. Los diversos componentes del monitor de tensión arterial
4. Puesta en funcionamiento del monitor de tensión arterial
4.1. Colocación de las pilas
4.2 Conexión del tubo
4.3 Fijar la fecha y la hora
5. Desarrollo de una medición
5.1. Antes de la medición
5.2. Fuentes de error comunes
5.3. Ajuste del brazalete
5.4 Procedimiento de medición
5.5 Inflado adicional
5.6. Interrupción de la medición
5.7. Indicación del último valor medido-Memoria
6. Mensajes de error/funcionamiento defectuoso
7. Cuidados y mantenimiento
8. Garantía
9. Estándares de referencia
10. Especificaciones técnicas
11. Contacto para ayuda
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1. Introducción
1.1. Características del modelo
El tensiómetro digital es un aparato semi-automático que permite medir la presión arterial
sistólica y diastólica y el pulso, de forma rápida y fiable, mediante un método de medición os-
cilométrico. El aparato ofrece una exactitud de medición muy alta y clínicamente comprobada, y
ha sido diseñado para proporcionar un máximo de sencillez en su utilización.
El tensiómetro posee una gran pantalla LCD que permite visualizar el estado de funcionamiento
yla presión, durante todo el proceso de medición.
Antes de usarlo, lea detenidamente este manual de instrucciones y luego guárdelo en un lugar
seguro. Contacte con su médico si tiene más preguntas sobre la tensión arterial y su medición.
Atención:
1.2. Información importante sobre las automediciones
• No lo olvide: automedición significa control, no diagnóstico o tratamiento. Los val-
ores inusuales deben ser discutidos siempre con su médico. No modifique bajo
ninguna circunstancia las dosis de cualquier medicamento que le haya rec-
etado su médico.
• El indicador de pulsaciones no es apropiado para medir la frecuencia de los marcapa-
sos.
• En casos de irregularidad cardiaca (arritmia), las mediciones realizadas con este instru-
mento deben ser evaluadas sólo, previa consulta con el médico.
Interferencia electromagnética:
El aparato contiene componentes electrónicos sensibles (microordenador). Por ello, evite
los campos
eléctricos o electromagnéticos fuertes en la proximidad directa del aparato (por ejemplo,
teléfonos móviles, microondas); pueden dar lugar a la pérdida temporal de la exactitud de
medición.
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2. Información importante sobre la presión sanguínea y su medición
2.1. ¿Cómo se origina la tensión arterial alta/baja?
El nivel de la tensión arterial se determina en una zona del cerebro, en el llamado centro
circulatorio, y se adapta a cada situación concreta por retroalimentación, a través del sis-
tema nervioso. Para ajustar la tensión arterial se modifican la potencia y la frecuencia car-
diacas (pulso), así como la anchura de los vasos sanguíneos. Esto último se efectúa medi-
ante los músculos de las paredes de los vasos sanguíneos.
El nivel de la tensión arterial cambia periódicamente junto con la actividad cardiaca: du-
rante la impulsión de la sangre (sístole) el valor es máximo (valor sistólico de la tensión ar-
terial); al final del «periodo de
relajación» del corazón (diástole), mínima (valor diastólico de la tensión arterial).
Para evitar ciertas enfermedades, los valores de la tensión arterial deben estar situados
entre unos valores límite determinados.
2.2. ¿Cuales son los valores normales?
Se produce un fenómeno de hipertensión cuando en condiciones de reposo del
organismo,la presión diastólica supera los 90 mmHg, o cuando la presión sistólica supera
los 160 mmHg. Entonces deberá dirigirse inmediatamente al médico, porque la persisten-
cia de estos valores pone en peligro su estado
de salud, a causa del progresivo deterioramiento de los vasos sanguíneos que se pro-
duciría.
Se deberá dirigir al médico también cuando el valor de la presión sistólica se encuentre
entre 140 mmHg y 160 mmHg o cuando el valor de la presión diastólica se encuentre entre
90 mmHg y 95 mmHg. Además, se deberá automedir regularmente.
También cuando los valores de la presión sean excesivamente bajos: una presión sistólica
inferior a 105 mmHg o una presión diastólica por debajo de 60 mmHg, será necesario con-
sultar con el médico.
Aún cuando los valores estén dentrode la normalidad, es aconsejable efectuar regular-
mente una automedición usando el tensiómetro, de este modo, será posible detectar even-
tuales variaciones de los valores y tomar las medidas oportunas, en consulta con su médi-
co.
Cuando se esté siguiendo una terapia médica para regular la presión sanguínea , será
necesario tomar regularmente nota de los valores de la presión que vayamos midiendo
siempre a la misma hora.
Las anotaciones pueden servir como soporte al examen médico. No use nunca los re-
sultados de sus mediciones para alterar por su cuenta el tratamiento prescrito
por su médico.
17

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Los estandares siguientes para determinar la tension arterial alta (sin consideracion alguna ha-
cia edad) han sido establecidos por los institutos nacionales de la salud JNCVI.
☞Otras informaciones
• En presencia de valores mayoritariamente normales en condiciones de reposo, pero ex-
cepcionalmente altos en condiciones de esfuerzo físico o psíquico, puede presentarse
una «hipertensión lábil». Consulte a su medico si sospecha que puede ser su caso.
• Valores de la presión diastólica medidos correctamente superiores a 120 mmHg, re-
quieren un tratamiento médico de inmediato.
2.3. ¿Qué podemos hacer si se miden regularmente valores altos/bajos?
a) Consultar con el médico.
b) A medio-largo plazo, un aumento considerable de la tensión arterial (diversas formas
de hipertensión), supone considerables riesgos para la salud. Estos riesgos son rela-
tivos a los vasos sanguíneos, los cuales se ven amenazados por los depósitos que se
forman en sus paredes y que los van estrechando (arteriosclerosis). Ello puede compor-
tar un aporte insuficiente de riego sanguíneo a los órganos principales (corazón, cere-
bro, músculos). Además, largos periodos de presión arterial elevada pueden provocar
daños estructurales en su corazón.
c) Las causas de la hipertensión pueden ser múltiples: es necesario antes de todo, difer-
enciar entre la hipertensión primaria (esencial) que es frecuente y la hipertensión se-
cundaria. La segunda puede ser debida a disfunciones orgánicas específicas. A fin de
establecer las posibles causas de los valores altos obtenidos en la medición de la pre-
sión, consulte con el médico.
d) Hay ciertas medidas que se pueden adoptar no sólo para reducir la tensión arterial el-
evada que haya sido diagnosticada por el médico, sinó como prevención
A) Habitos alimenticios
Categoria Sistolicos `Diastolico
Optimo <120 <80
Normal <130 <85
Normal alto 130-139 85-89
Hipertension
Etapa 1 140-159 90-99
Etapa 2 160-179 100-109
Etapa 3 ≥180 ≥110