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I Suffer With Extreme Tenderness And Can't Stand To Have My Blood Pressure Taken As Its Too Painful.

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Merseyside

I am supposed to have my blood pressure taken but find it impossible as it is too painful. I have been refusing as they can't get a true reading. Does anyone else suffer with this and how do you cope?

October 22, 2015
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around someone struggling with extreme tenderness during blood pressure readings, offering several practical alternatives to... Read more

Members rallied around someone struggling with extreme tenderness during blood pressure readings, offering several practical alternatives to the standard upper-arm method. Many members shared their success with forearm blood pressure cuffs, which tend to be less sensitive and painful while still providing accurate readings, and some mentioned wrist cuffs as another gentle option worth requesting from healthcare providers. A recurring theme was the importance of self-advocacy, with members encouraging clear communication about fibromyalgia or pain sensitivity, requesting manual readings instead of automatic machines that pump too high, and using distraction techniques like looking at happy photos or thinking of loved ones to help manage discomfort during the process.

A MyFibroTeam Member

LindaBlue I have my blood pressure taken around my forearm. Dr. explained that as the cuff tightens, causes pain, so it's not a 'true reading'. Have them take it around your forearm. Don't let them give you any $<+# about it. If they insist, just tell the reading will be the same with confidence in your voice :-) Hugsxx

January 22, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I know how it feels. And unless your blood pressure is extremely high, there's no point in applying pressure up to #240 or something. My doc says when the cuff is pumped too high, it I'd painful-duh-and that pain adds to a false reading. As @ssalters says, they can take it around your lower arm and get a correct reading. Didn't know about the wrist, sounds great ! Do know from my experience that lower arm works as well. Hugxx

February 3, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes and they do have blood pressure cuff that goes on your wrist! Most dr's office have them! It doesn't even have to squeeze you, it's AWESOME!

February 2, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

It is a big issue for me as well. My forearm isn't as sensitive so they take my blood pressure there

October 23, 2015

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