A Comparative Analysis of the Inter-Arm Blood Pressure of Post-Stroke Patients with Left Hemiparesis and Healthy Subjects

Background: Inter-arm blood pressure difference (IABPD) is a marker of vascular asymmetry and cardiovascular risk. In post-stroke patients with hemiparesis, altered vascular regulation may heighten IABPD, yet its clinical significance remains underexplored. Aim: To compare IABPD between post-stroke patients with left hemiparesis and healthy controls, and to assess its relevance in hypertension management. Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 post-stroke patients and 150 age- and sex-matched controls. Simultaneous bilateral blood pressure readings were obtained under standardized conditions using a validated digital sphygmomanometer. Pulse pressure (PP) was calculated as systolic minus diastolic blood pressure. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and independent t-tests (p < 0.05). Results: Stroke patients showed significantly higher mean systolic IABPD (9.1 ± 6.8 mmHg) than controls (0.7 ± 3.2 mmHg; p < 0.0001), and higher diastolic IABPD (3.5 ± 5.1 mmHg vs. 0.4 ± 2.7 mmHg; p < 0.0001). Pulse pressure was also elevated, indicating increased arterial stiffness. The greatest IABPD occurred within three months post-stroke and declined gradually but persisted beyond six months. Conclusion: Markedly higher IABPD in stroke survivors underscores the need for routine bilateral blood pressure measurement to identify the dominant arm for monitoring and treatment. This simple, low-cost approach may enhance hypertension detection and reduce recurrent stroke risk, especially in resource-limited settings.