Automatic blood pressure monitor: Many people monitor their blood pressure at home. They often do this to manage or treat a certain health condition. If you monitor your blood pressure at home, keep a record, or log, of the measurements. The record shows your doctor how your blood pressure changes throughout the day. If you take medicines to control your blood pressure, it will help document if they are working. Measuring your blood pressure at home is a good way to take part in managing your health.
What equipment do I need to measure my blood pressure at home?
Automatic blood pressure monitor: To measure your blood pressure at home, you can use either an aneroid (manual) monitor or digital monitor. Choose the type of monitor that best meets your needs. Look at the following features when you select a monitor.
- Size: The right cuff size is very important. The cuff size you need is based on the size of your arm. You can ask the doctor, nurse, orpharmacist to help you. Blood pressure readings can be wrong if your cuff is the wrong size.
- Price: Cost may be a key factor. Home blood pressure units vary in price. You may want to shop around to find the best deal. Keep in mind that pricey units may not be the best or most accurate.
- Display: The numbers on the monitor should be easy for you to read.
- Sound: You must be able to hear your heartbeat through the stethoscope
Aneroid monitor
The aneroid monitor manually checks your blood pressure. It has a gauge that you read by looking at a pointer on the dial. The cuff goes around your upper arm and you squeeze a rubber bulb to inflate it by hand.
There are some drawbacks to the aneroid monitor. It is a complex device that can be damaged easily and become less accurate. The device may be hard to use if it doesn’t have a metal ring to tighten the cuff. This is what makes it easier to put on the cuff. Additionally, the rubber bulb that inflates the cuff may be hard to squeeze.
Also Read: Portable personal ECG monitor