Doctor Recommended Blood Pressure Monitor

Do you intend to use a blood pressure monitor? You are a member of a growing group. Doctors are advising an increasing number of people with high blood pressure to check their levels at home.

Why? Your blood pressure reading at the doctor’s office only displays your current numbers. A home monitor allows you to check it frequently.

This can help your doctor determine your true blood pressure. The best technique to determine whether you have high blood pressure is to measure it numerous times every day for several months.

There are numerous options for home blood pressure monitors. Many of them are under $100. A prescription is not required to obtain one. They are available at your local drugstore, bargain store, medical supply store, and online.

You can also select a model to wear on your arm or wrist during the day. However, not all of these are correct. That is why you should take your blood pressure monitor to the doctor before using it. They can compare it to the ones utilized in their office.

How to Pick a Home Blood Pressure Monitor

Arm Monitors

Arm cuff monitors are classified into two types:

Aneroid monitors

To inflate the cuff around your upper arm, you squeeze a bulb. Then you use a gauge to determine your blood pressure. These are the least priced solutions, but they are also the most vulnerable to damage.

Digital Monitors

Some models require you to inflate the cuff. Other times, the machine does it for you. Your reading is displayed on a little screen. Some even provide paper printouts. They are simple to use and read.

Wrist Monitors: Pros and Cons

They may be less accurate than cuff-based devices. This is due to the fact that the reading must be taken with your arm at heart level. Other roles can have an impact on your stats. However, they may be a viable choice if a cuff monitor causes discomfort or if your upper arm is too wide for one.

What About Apps?

Many smartphone apps claim to detect blood pressure, but are the findings reliable? Early study indicates that you cannot, at least not yet.

A short study discovered that readings from a popular blood pressure app were extremely erroneous. According to a review of various apps, the majority have not been scientifically confirmed to provide accurate readings. More research is needed before apps may be utilized for medical purposes, according to the report.

Shopping Suggestions

The home blood pressure monitor you select should be one that is perfect for you, not one that your friend or neighbor like. Use the following smart shopper checklist:

Make sure it fits: An incorrectly sized arm cuff can interfere with your readings. Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can advise you on the appropriate size.

It’s OK to be frugal: A $200 high-tech wireless monitor may not be better or more accurate than a lot less expensive model. Many of the best blood pressure monitors range in price from $40 to $75. Check with your insurance company to see if it is covered.

Consider the features: Do you want several cuffs? Do you require a device that can store data for several users? What about a big screen? These and other features are available on various models.

Usability: Some monitors may be easier to use and read than others. Before making a decision, try out a few.

How To Use a Home Blood Pressure Monitor

Doctor Recommended Blood Pressure Monitor — Photo Credit: heart.org

Be silent: Do not smoke, consume caffeinated beverages, or exercise within 30 minutes of taking your blood pressure reading. Before taking measures, empty your bladder and allow at least 5 minutes of calm relaxation.

Sit properly: Sit up straight and with your back supported (on a dining chair, rather than a sofa). Your legs should not be crossed and your feet should be flat on the floor. Your upper arm should be at heart level and supported on a flat surface (such as a table).

Make sure the bottom of the cuff is directly above the elbow bend. Check the directions for your monitor for a demonstration, or have your healthcare professional show you how.

Measure at the same time every day: It is critical to take the readings at the same time every day, such as in the morning and evening. It is preferable to take the readings every day, ideally starting 2 weeks following a change in treatment and throughout the week preceding your next checkup.

Take multiple readings and record the results: Take two or three readings one minute apart each time you measure and record the data on a downloadable (PDF) tracker.

Take your monitor with you to your appointments if it has built-in memory for storing your readings. After you register your profile, some monitors may allow you to upload your readings to a secure website.

Understand Your Numbers

Note: It is important to note that a diagnosis of high blood pressure must be validated by a medical practitioner. Any very low blood pressure results should also be evaluated by a doctor.

If You Get a High Blood Pressure Reading

A single high reading is not grounds for immediate concern. Whether your blood pressure measurement is slightly or considerably higher than normal, take it again and visit your healthcare provider to determine if there is a health concern or if there are any problems with your monitor.
If your blood pressure suddenly rises above 180/120 mm Hg, wait five minutes before testing again. If your results remain abnormally high, contact your doctor right away. You could be in the midst of a hypertensive crisis.
If your blood pressure is greater than 180/120 mm Hg and you are suffering symptoms of possible organ damage such as chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness/weakness, change in vision, or difficulty speaking, don’t wait for it to go down on its own. Dial 911.