Blood pressure, known as "The Silent Killer," is an important issue that needs to be monitored. Having a good quality, accurate and reliable blood pressure monitor at home can assist you in keeping track of your health status. With the advancements in technology, various types of blood pressure monitors are available today. So it's important to understand what type would be best for your needs and budget before you make a purchase. So let's look at the various types of blood pressure monitors available and give tips on selecting the right one for you.
Why Use a Home Monitoring System At Home?
Research shows that frequently monitoring your blood pressure at home and tracking the results over time can be a helpful tool for managing hypertension. Having a reliable device at home to monitor your blood pressure helps you take an active role in controlling your health.
For those who are just starting to monitor their blood pressure, keeping the results is especially helpful for providing a baseline before and after medical interventions. It can also help you identify patterns related to lifestyle or diet changes that may affect your blood pressure.
Who can Benefit From Using a Blood Pressure Monitor?
If any of the following statements below apply to you, then a blood pressure monitor could be useful:
- A more reliable way to monitor your health than occasional doctor's visits.
- You're pregnant
- You're diabetic
- You're trying to lower your blood pressure
- You want to increase awareness of your health.
- You have been started on blood pressure medications and need to be monitored.
Although you may have healthy blood pressure readings, monitoring your levels every so often is still beneficial.
Different Types of Home Monitors and Their Advantages and Disadvantages
While many home blood pressure monitors come with an arm or wrist cuff, it's important to consider performance, features, and price when deciding.
Arm Monitors
These monitors will inflate the cuff automatically and display readings. Most have "risk category indicators" that alert you to high readings. With some models, you can download results to a computer for easy sharing with your doctor. Arm monitors with larger cuffs are usually more accurate than smaller ones.
Pros
Depending on the model, multiple users can store their data, which is useful for family members who want to track their blood pressure. Arm monitors are more accurate in tests.
Cons
The arm cuff must fit correctly; otherwise, readings may be inaccurate. Also, many people find the units usually bulky, not very portable, and often uncomfortable as wrist monitors.
Wrist Monitors
Although these monitors are more effortless; they might not be as exact as arm models. Therefore, ensuring the cuff fits correctly and remains at heart level when taking readings is essential.
Pros
Wrist monitors are small, light, and easy to carry around. They're often more comfortable to wear than arm monitors too.
Cons
Wrist pressure measurements are delicate and can be changed by body position. For example, to get an accurate reading, both wrist and arm cuffs should be placed at heart level; this is more challenging with a wrist cuff.
Related Reads: Blood Pressure Monitor: How To Use it Accurately?
Picking the Right Blood Pressure Monitor for You
Choose a highly-ranked model with the features you need to make your testing process as simple as possible. For example, some models allow you to keep multiple users' information, making it possible for the whole family to keep track of their health. So follow the below tips to help you select the right blood pressure monitor for you:
Make Sure The Product is a Good Fit for You
Ensure that the blood pressure monitor you select has a cuff sized to fit around your upper arm or wrist. Using a cuff that's the incorrect size can give you inaccurate readings. So choose one that has adjustable cuff sizes.
Be Mindful of the Cost
When buying a blood pressure monitor, you should consider the cost of the device and its accessories. Consider all your options before buying, and look for a product that provides the features you need but is also cost-efficient.
Choose One That's Easy to Use
The monitor's display should be clear and concise. Its buttons should be large enough to press easily and laid out in an easy-to-understand manner. The cuff's directions for use should also be prominent and not require too much deciphering to understand.
Choose The Elements You Need
There are many elements to look for when choosing a blood pressure monitor, such as an automatic shut-off, memory capabilities, and irregular heartbeat detection. Consider your needs and pick one that has all the features you need.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Home Monitor
Bring the blood pressure monitor you bought to your doctor's appointment, so they can verify that you're using it correctly and test whether the results are accurate. The AHA recommends checking your device once a year to ensure it works properly and gives accurate readings. Remember that even the best home blood pressure monitors can provide inaccurate readings if not used correctly. The AHA recommends the following tips to help you stay healthy.
- Before measuring your blood pressure, avoid smoking; also, ensure that you haven't had any caffeine or exercised for at least 30 minutes.
- Use the restroom and relax for 5 minutes before taking a reading.
- Remain comfortable with your feet on the floor and your back supported by the chair.
- Sit straight and place your arm at heart level when measuring your blood pressure.
- Avoid talking while taking measurements.
- Take several readings over time to get an accurate blood pressure average.
- If your reading is consistently high, talk to your doctor about it.
- Follow up with your physician if you experience unusual symptoms or changes in blood pressure readings.
The Bottom Line
With the right blood pressure monitor, you can easily keep track of your health in the comfort of your home. There are various models and features at UK pharmacies, so pick a monitor that fits your needs. Remember that accuracy is key in blood pressure readings, so follow the tips outlined above to get the most out of your home blood pressure monitor.
