There are many makes of blood pressure monitors on the market.
The choice is extensive and the question is, how do I know which one to
choose?
But perhaps you need first to be clear on why you should even bother
getting one in the
first place.
Your blood pressure can rise over time, or even quickly, and you could
be none the wiser.
There are almost no signs or symptoms that will tell you that you have
hypertension.
You could think you are heart-healthy. You could have a good standard of
fitness from exercise. And still suffer from elevated blood pressure.
Hypertension is often called the silent killer, and for good reason.
With no telltale signs, the first time you find out you have high blood
pressure may be after a heart attack.
It pays then to have it checked on a regular basis.
But, having to visit your doctor often can not only be costly but also
inconvenient. So it makes sense to buy your own blood pressure monitor and check your blood pressure at home.
Having decided to buy one, how do you decide which one to get?
You have a choice of 2 types, the aneroid or the digital.
In the digital version, there are several different models. It depends on
where you wish to measure your blood pressure. Finger, wrist, or upper arm.
So, what's the difference between these devices?
The Aneroid Monitor
You read this monitor by looking at a needle pointer on a dial. The cuff
is wrapped around your arm above the elbow is inflated by hand pumping a rubber
bulb. In other words, it’s a manual cuff.
Generally, this costs less than digital monitors. And the cuff has an
inbuilt stethoscope.
Some units are purpose-built to allow fitting with one hand.
They are extremely portable and easily moved from place to place.
Disadvantages:
This is a complex machine susceptible to damage which can make it less
accurate without you being aware of it.
Sometimes the rubber bulb is stiff and hard to pump.
Based as it is on listening through the stethoscope those who have
hearing difficulties may find the monitor difficult to use effectively.
The Digital Monitor
This monitor is read by means of a digital screen and the cuffs are
inflated either manually or automatically.
Being automatic this device is naturally more popular.
The display is easier to read because the numbers show up on a small screen.
Some even have a paper printout.
With the gauge and stethoscope contained in one unit it is easier and
simpler to use than the aneroid monitor.
The display screen can also provide details of any errors in using the
machine.
Cuff inflation, depending on the make and model involved, can be either
manual or automatic. Once done deflation is automatic.
There is no need to listen for the heart sounds, the machine does it for
you. This makes it ideal for use by those whose hearing is impaired.
Disadvantages:
Blood pressure monitors can be expensive depending on which make and
model you choose.
Body movement or erratic heartbeat can compromise accuracy. And could
also mask heart defects such as arrhythmia.
Some models are specifically designed for use with the patients left arm
only, so choose carefully.
So What Do You Need To Look For To Ensure You Get The Best Home Blood
Pressure Monitor For The Money You Have To Spend?
Digital or Aneroid?
It’s probably a no-brainer you should be looking for a digital model.
But if you decide on the aneroid monitor make sure you can hear the sounds of
your heart through it.
The size of the cuff is important. Make sure it fits your arm. If it
doesn’t your results will not be accurate.
Ensure you can read the display.
Cost. Price can be a pretty good guide to quality. But it does not
follow that the best machine is the most expensive machine. And neither does it
pay to assume low or cheap prices mean you found a bargain.
Shop around. Investigate. Find reviews about the different products
online.
Check prices, make sure you get value for money. Among the highest-rated
makes are Omron and Lifesource.
The important thing is to get the best home blood pressure monitor you can afford.
And use it!
Take responsibility for your own home health care.
Your health is important, look after it.
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