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Dealing With A Blood Pressure Monitor

By: Stan Kitchen Having high blood pressure means that you will need to monitor that pressure regularly. Depending on what your doctor tells you, he may ask for your blood pressure on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Knowing how to get a blood pressure reading is the first step in taking more control over your condition and preserving the goals you have set for you when it comes to diet, exercise and lifestyle.

There are many different kinds of blood pressure monitors, but the two main types are digital or aneroid. Digital blood pressure cuffs, either automatic or manual, are easy to use, read and maintain. Large display numbers on most digital units make it easy for those with vision problems to view their blood pressure reading, as well as pulse rate and, with some models, your blood oxygen level.

The older blood pressure monitor, known in simple terms as the blood pressure cuff, is more complicated to use and read, though it can be a bit cheaper than automatic digital models. With the analog model, a patient must wrap the blood pressure cuff around the upper arm, usually the left, as it's closer to the heart. A stethoscope must also be used to get a blood pressure reading through this method. Two elastic tubes emerge from the blood pressure cuff; one is a hand pump, the other is a dial that will display numbers. You should have good hearing to use an old-fashioned blood pressure cuff, as you will need to listen through the stethoscope for the sound of heartbeats.

Both types of blood pressure monitors are available at drugstores and medical supply stores, as well as various sizes. Some models fit on the wrist, while some still come with cuffs that wrap around the upper arm. Both types will inflate and display readout automatically, usually within 30 seconds. These types of models are accurate, but users must take care to remain still while they are in use so as not to alter the reading or produce error messages.

The arm monitors can range in price from $50 to $200, so make sure you shop around or ask your doctor to suggest a model for you if you're not sure what you need. Manual inflation of cuffs will save money, but many older people suffering from arthritis or other conditions may find that method difficult. Wrist models can range anywhere from $50 to $100, so again, check to make sure you find something that will suit your specific needs. Blood pressure monitors can also be bought on the Internet from medical supply wholesale stores or private businesses, so check out prices with them also. You'll more than likely have a larger selection to choose from, and many online businesses offer free shipping.

No matter which blood pressure monitor you choose, make sure that you will be able to master its use with a minimum of instruction. Also make sure that you will be able to read the display panel, as well as use the system by yourself, if necessary. Today, there are so many different models and price ranges to choose from. Whether you have a blood pressure problem or not, knowing your blood pressure is always a good idea.