Which statement accurately reflects blood pressure variation between arms?

• A. BP is always identical in both arms
• B. BP can differ between arms
• C. BP never varies
• D. BP is the same regardless of exercise

Answer: (B)

Inter-arm differences in blood pressure are real and clinically meaningful. In most people, small differences between arms are normal because of natural anatomical and physiological variability, measurement technique, or cuff placement. But a noticeable and persistent difference between arms can point to underlying vascular issues, such as arterial narrowing or other circulatory factors, and is something clinicians watch for. Because readings are not guaranteed to be identical in both arms, the statement that BP can differ between arms best captures the reality used in practice: measure both arms initially, use the arm with the higher reading for subsequent checks, and consider a significant inter-arm difference (often around 10–15 mmHg systolic) as warranting further evaluation. Exercise raises blood pressure overall, and inter-arm readings can change with activity, so equality across arms is not assumed in real life.