In-home blood pressure monitor readings are imperative for diabetics, but they can also help non-diabetics keep tabs on their health. In-home machines provide continuous readings that can alert you to any health concerns before they have the chance to exacerbate.
What’s more, in-home machines make it much easier to take readings, especially as it can be difficult for people to have their blood pressure taken at the doctor’s office every other day.
However, there are many different in-home machines, with a raft of blood pressure monitor reviews offering different outlooks on the different machines and their value.
What is most important is finding the machine that is perfect for you, this being one that fits your needs, interests and, of course, your arm!
Let’s take a closer look at the machines and how they can be perfect for your reading requirements:
The automatic machine
If you are looking for a device that can take fast and efficient in-home readings then you should go for the digital or “automatic” option. What’s more, you should choose one that can easily fit on the arm as opposed to the wrist or finger, as these provide a more accurate reading.
The different cuffs
As aforementioned, there are three different cuff types: arm, wrist and finger devices. A device with an automatic cuff can easily be wrapped around the upper arm and is decidedly best for in-home readings. These devices, also known as “brachial blood pressure monitors”, are renowned for their in-home accuracy, especially as opposed to the other two options, which are conversely notorious for their inaccuracy.
Getting the right cuff size
An imperative aspect of buying the right device is choosing a cuff size that is suitable for you. This directly relates to the circumference of your upper arm, and it needs to fit properly because if it doesn’t you may receive inaccurate results. To get the ideal fit, you should always measure around your upper arm, with the cuff being wrapped around the midpoint between your elbow and shoulder.
Taking it accurate readings
You must ensure that your device is clinically validated for accuracy. For this, you should speak to your doctor. The device’s lifespace usually runs for around two to three years, and you should once again have a GP evaluate the machine for its accuracy once these years have passed.
Take up to three readings
We recommend purchasing a device that can take three automatic readings at the same time. These are devices that automatically do this with every use, with the gap between readings being about 30-60 seconds, and the average of these readings giving you your actual reading.
Price
Prices vary depending on the device’s specific features. We don’t recommend purchasing the cheapest device available, as it may not contain the features you need for accurate readings and therefore will defeat the purpose of having bought such a device in the first place.
You should always purchase a device that is most suitable for your requirements against its price. People differ greatly when it comes to achieving the most accurate reading possible, and for this you should always choose the machine that your GP has advised is perfect for your needs.
So, if you follow this brief guide to choosing the perfect blood pressure monitor, you should do exactly that! Just be sure to always choose the one that is most suitable for you, as this is the only way to achieve the proper value of having purchased one and not defeat the purpose of having bought one in the first place!