Hypertension-different between two arms

Dear Ask The Doctor: My husband has a pressure of 160-170's in his right arm while the left arm is aroud 100'-110's.Coratid and subclavian veins look to be good. What other factor may be causing this extreme difference in pressure. Can it be related to kidney disease or is this more an issue of plaque buildup in heart vessells that we are missing? Anna

Dear Steven:

I understand your concern about high blood pressure in one arm. According to the difference that you measure, that could be caused by conditions such as narrowing of the main arteries to that arm.

I would definitely suggest your husband to consult a physician to confirm the blood pressure readings and re-evaluate his hypertension treatment. A large difference in blood pressure measurement between his arms could signal a health problem of his arteries, kidney or heart.  A very detailed evaluation including physical exam and probable EKG might reveal the problem. I wish him a prompt recovery.