newsprompt.coBLOOD PRESSURE READINGS
Accurate blood pressure measurement is vital in the prevention and treatment of blood-pressure–related diseases. Additionally, in very ill patients, accurate measurement of blood pressure is essential for monitoring cardiovascular homeostasis. Many patients with hypertension monitor their own blood pressure at home. If you decide to check your blood pressure at home, you will have to get a blood pressure monitor that serves this purpose.There is a wide range of home blood pressure monitors available, but it is important to be sure that the blood pressure monitor you choose is accurate and the right one for you.
Here are a few tips to follow while shopping for a blood pressure monitor:
Ensure the monitor is suitable for your special needs
When selecting a blood pressure monitor for the elderly, pregnant women or children, make sure it is validated for these conditions.
Make sure the cuff fits.
Children and adults with smaller or larger than average-sized arms may need special-sized cuffs. They are available in some chemists, from supply companies and by direct order from companies that sell blood pressure cuffs. Measure around your upper arm and choose a monitor that comes with the correct size cuff.
Use Automatic blood pressure monitors
There are many different kinds of home blood pressure monitor, but it is easiest to use a monitor that is fully automatic (digital). Choose one that measures your blood pressure at your upper arm, rather than at your wrist or finger. Upper-arm blood pressure monitors usually give the most accurate and consistent results. The American Heart Association recommends an automatic, cuff-style, bicep (upper-arm) monitor. Wrist and finger monitors are not recommended because they yield less reliable readings. Your physician or chemist can help you choose a monitor.
Keep your home blood pressure monitor calibrated
Because your blood pressure monitor works automatically, it will need to be re-calibrated at least once every two years to be sure it is giving you accurate results. To have your automatic home monitor re-calibrated, you will need to send it back to the manufacturer. There will probably be a fee for this service.
Choose a digital monitor to suit your budget
Blood pressure monitors can vary in price. This usually depends on the number of extra features that the digital monitor has, like a built-in memory for example. All you need to measure your blood pressure correctly is a clinically validated monitor, and a pen and paper to record your readings. Extra features can be helpful but they are not necessary. Choose a home blood pressure monitor that you can afford.
Why do you need to purchase a blood pressure meter?
Help with early diagnosis
Self-monitoring can help your physician diagnose high blood pressure earlier than if you have only occasional blood pressure readings in a physicians office. Home monitoring is especially important if you have slightly elevated blood pressure (prehypertension) or another condition that could contribute to high blood pressure, such as diabetes or kidney problems.
Helps to track treatment
The only way to know whether your lifestyle changes or treatments are working is to check your blood pressure regularly. Monitoring blood pressure changes at home can help you and your physician make decisions about your treatment, such as adjusting dosages or changing treatments.
Cuts your health care costs
Self-monitoring might decrease your number of visits to your physician or clinic.
Checking your blood pressure at home is an important part of managing high blood pressure. The American Heart Association (AHA) and other organizations recommend that anyone with high blood pressure monitor his or her blood pressure at home. Home monitoring can help you keep tabs on your blood pressure in a familiar setting, make certain your treatment is working, and alert you and your physician to potential health complications.
