Why use blood pressure watch? Blood pressure changes constantly in each individual and thus creates the requirement necessary for the functional capacity of the body. Thus fluctuations in blood pressure are perfectly normal. However, if blood pressure values are constantly elevated at rest, hypertension or high blood pressure is present. High blood pressure is one of the commonest causes of disability and death. And yet, many people do not know they are suffering from high blood pressure. This is because the problem is only noticed when the conditions it leads to are at an advanced stage. These may be life-threatening, such as heart attack, stroke, or kidney damage. Only regular blood pressure monitoring enables high blood pressure to be detected early. You have decided in favour of blood pressure self-measurement and this will contribute to your health care. This is the only way to ensure efficient protection against the dangerous results which may affect your heart and circulation.
Types of Blood Pressure Watch and Monitors
Digital – Digital blood pressure monitors are sometimes expensive ranging from $30 to $100. Most people feel digital monitors are easier to use than the aneroid types. Deflation is automatic on all digital monitors.
Aneroid – Aneroid blood pressure monitors are portable and inexpensive ranging in price from $20 to $30. You read a dial to determine the pressure reading while listening to heart sounds. They have a built-in stethoscope to listen to the heart.
Other Types – Doctors discourage use of finger and wrist monitors because they are inaccurate. You will often find free blood pressure screening booths in grocery, pharmacy and discount stores. These machines may not be accurate depending on the maintenance schedule. If you plan to use one regularly, stop by after having your blood pressure checked at your doctor’s office.
How To Choose Blood Pressure Watch and Monitors
Aneroid Blood Pressure Monitors or Manual blood pressure monitors – Mostly you will see this blood pressure monitor at your Doctors table. Manual blood pressure monitor includes arm cuff, a squeeze bulb for inflation, a stethoscope or microphone, and a medical gauge to measure the blood pressure.
Digital Blood Pressure Monitors – Also called as Electronic or automatic blood pressure monitor.
Finger Blood Pressure Monitor – New Technology has arrived. Those who has to take blood pressure frequently, this finger monitor is ideal for them. Cuff inflates automatically.
Pediatric Blood Pressure Monitor – This monitor comes with small cuff and a LCD like lcd of video game.
Wrist blood pressure monitor – If you have fracture of arm or have arthritis of elbow joints, the preferably use wrist blood pressure monitor. Some even with pulse monitor.
Blood pressure monitor cuff – When choosing blood pressure monitor, always see size of cuff first. You need a larger size cuff. For children, also use smaller size cuffs.
While taking blood pressure watch, follow all precautions on leaflet comes with any blood pressure monitor.