What are the reasons for being unable to measure blood pressure?

Generally, failure to measure blood pressure may be caused by improper use of the sphygmomanometer, intense physical exercise, arteriosclerosis, aortic valve insufficiency, acute myocardial infarction, and other reasons. If any discomfort occurs, it is essential to seek treatment under the professional guidance of a physician. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Improper Use of Sphygmomanometer

Damaged sphygmomanometers—such as those with air leaks or mercury loss—incorrect cuff application (either too tight or too loose), and inaccurate stethoscope placement can all lead to inability to measure blood pressure. Before taking a measurement, check that the device is in good condition and re-measure blood pressure using the correct technique.

2. Intense Physical Exercise

After vigorous exercise, the heart pumps faster, which may temporarily elevate or significantly fluctuate blood pressure, making accurate measurement difficult. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and sweating. It is recommended to rest for a while after intense activity and ensure the body is at rest before measuring blood pressure.

3. Arteriosclerosis

Arteriosclerosis is a non-inflammatory arterial condition that causes thickening and stiffening of arterial walls, resulting in loss of elasticity and narrowing of the lumen. The arterial lumen may become narrowed or even completely blocked, obstructing blood flow and potentially interfering with blood pressure measurement, leading to unmeasurable readings. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, chest pain, and limb numbness. Under medical supervision, medications such as enteric-coated aspirin tablets, atorvastatin calcium tablets, and nimodipine tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Aortic Valve Insufficiency

Acute aortic regurgitation is commonly caused by infective endocarditis or trauma, while chronic aortic regurgitation results from various aortic valve diseases or dilation of the aortic root. In aortic valve insufficiency, blood flows back into the left ventricle during cardiac diastole, reducing systolic pressure and making it difficult to measure. Symptoms may include palpitations, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Follow medical advice to treat with medications such as furosemide tablets, digoxin tablets, and spironolactone tablets.

5. Acute Myocardial Infarction

The fundamental cause of acute myocardial infarction is blockage of the heart's blood supply, leading to an imbalance between oxygen supply and demand, resulting in myocardial necrosis. Myocardial infarction impairs heart muscle function and weakens the heart's pumping ability, causing hypotension and inaccurate blood pressure readings. It may also present with symptoms such as dyspnea, sweating, and nausea. It is recommended to use medications such as nitroglycerin tablets, metoprolol tartrate tablets, and rosuvastatin calcium tablets under the guidance of a qualified physician.

To ensure accurate blood pressure measurement, it is important to use and maintain the sphygmomanometer correctly, avoid measuring blood pressure immediately after strenuous exercise, maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent vascular narrowing and cardiovascular diseases, and regularly monitor heart health.