How to Choose the Right Blood Pressure Monitor

When it comes to choosing the right type of blood pressure monitor to use at home, there is a wide range to choose from, but the most important thing to remember is that you need to choose one that will give you accurate results and perform at its best. Remember to consult your doctor before buying a blood pressure monitor so that you can get one that will properly suit your individual need.

Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor

There are several types of blood pressure monitors available, but perhaps the easiest to use would be an blood pressure monitor that is digital and fully automatic. In some cases, upper-arm blood pressure monitors are known to give the most accurate and consistent results. If your doctor suggests the same for you, choose one that can measure your blood pressure at your upper arm instead of at your finger or wrist.

The price of blood pressure monitors usually depends on the amount of extra features that it has. Remember, however, that the most important feature is that it should measure your blood pressure correctly. Keep a pen and paper handy in the same drawer as your monitor so that you can record your monitor readings. Monitors for blood pressure management also need to be re-calibrated at least once every two years so that you can continue to get accurate results. If your monitor needs to be re-calibrated, consider taking it back to the manufacturer for help. In most cases there is a fee for this.

Choosing the Right Size

Upper-arm monitors come along with a cuff that needs to be wrapped around your arm when measuring your blood pressure. If you shop for the wrong size, chances are that your blood pressure reading will inaccurate. Always be sure to measure around your upper arm, just at the midpoint between your shoulder and your elbow, before buying an upper-arm monitor. In most cases, blood pressure monitors for home use are sold in a regular medium-sized cuff. If your size is a small or large, you can try shopping for the size you need separately.

Here are the general upper arm cuff sizes for your reference:

Small cuff size: 18-22 cm / 7.1-8.7 inches

Medium cuff size: 22-32 cm / 8.8-12.8 inches

Large cuff size: 32-45 cm / 12.8-18 inches

When shopping online or at the store for a blood pressure monitor, always double check that the monitor has been clinically and tested for accuracy. If the model you are buying has been tested and clinically validated this means it has gone through tests to ensure it will give you proper test results and work for longer.