Blood Pressure Readings and Antibiotic Ointment Safety - Internal Medicine

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Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding blood pressure readings and the safety of antibiotic ointment. Let's address each of your concerns in detail.


Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
Your recorded blood pressure readings of around 108/61 mmHg with a heart rate of 78 bpm are generally considered to be on the lower side of the normal range. Blood pressure is typically categorized as follows:
- Normal: Systolic < 120 mmHg and Diastolic < 80 mmHg
- Elevated: Systolic 120-129 mmHg and Diastolic < 80 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 1: Systolic 130-139 mmHg or Diastolic 80-89 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 2: Systolic ≥ 140 mmHg or Diastolic ≥ 90 mmHg
In your case, a diastolic reading of 61 mmHg is indeed on the lower side, but it is not necessarily a cause for concern unless you are experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or fatigue. Low blood pressure (hypotension) can be a concern if it leads to symptoms or if it is significantly lower than your usual readings.

Regarding the sensation of your heart beating strongly when measuring your blood pressure, this could be due to a few factors. If the cuff is too tight, it can cause discomfort and may lead to a sensation of your heartbeat. It’s important to ensure that the cuff is snug but not overly tight. The cuff should allow for a finger to fit comfortably underneath it. If you feel that the cuff is too tight, it might be worth adjusting it before taking your measurement again.


Antibiotic Ointment Safety
Regarding the antibiotic ointment, it’s good to hear that your wound is healing well. If you left the cap off the ointment for a day, there is a possibility that it could have been exposed to bacteria or contaminants from the environment. However, most antibiotic ointments are formulated to resist bacterial growth to some extent. If you squeezed out the portion that was exposed to air and used the remaining ointment, it should be fine, especially if the area you are treating is not showing signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge).

As for the concern about using a disinfected cotton swab to apply the ointment, this is generally acceptable as long as the swab is sterile and you are careful not to introduce any contaminants. It’s important to avoid touching the tip of the swab to any non-sterile surfaces. If you are worried about the cotton fibers coming loose and potentially causing irritation, you might consider using a clean finger to apply the ointment instead, provided your hands are washed thoroughly.


Conclusion
In summary, your blood pressure readings are on the lower side but not necessarily alarming unless accompanied by symptoms. Ensure that the cuff is fitted correctly to avoid discomfort. For the antibiotic ointment, if you’ve taken precautions to avoid contamination, you should be fine. Always monitor the treated area for any signs of infection, and if you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further clarification!