How is blood pressure measured?

Blood pressure is measured using a sphygmomanometer, which is a device specifically designed for this purpose. The sphygmomanometer consists of an inflatable cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm, which can be inflated to restrict blood flow. A pressure gauge then indicates the pressure in the cuff as it is gradually released.

As the cuff is inflated, it compresses the artery, and when the pressure is released, the practitioner listens for specific sounds (Korotkoff sounds) with a stethoscope. The first sound heard indicates the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats. The point at which the sounds disappear indicates the diastolic pressure, the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.

This method effectively provides a two-number reading that represents a person's blood pressure, which is crucial for assessing cardiovascular health and identifying potential health issues. Other options listed do not pertain to blood pressure measurement techniques; thermometers measure temperature, counting pulses indicates heart rate, and electrocardiograms assess heart activity.