Blood Pressure Monitor Reviews

Aneroid, Digital, Fingertip and Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors

If you have high or even borderline high blood pressure then purchasing a blood pressure monitor would be a wise investment. A benefit of having your own monitor is that you can periodically take readings to get a better understanding for where your blood pressure levels really are. One of the problems with only having your readings taken at a doctors office is that sometimes stress can elevate the results. If you are consistent with monitoring your readings at home you can then take those results to your doctor for a more accurate exam.

There are several different type of blood pressure monitors that you can chose from. The different types range from aneroid to digital monitors, to monitors that can be used on a finger or the wrist. We will review in more detail about the different types of monitors that are available to you. However, before we begin we will go over a few key terms that you help you understand the review better.

	Blood pressure	- measurement of the force of the blood against the arteries
	High blood pressure	- also referred as hypertension
	Systolic pressure	- highest pressure recorded
	Diastolic pressure	- lowest pressure recorded
	Cuff	- apparatus that is wrapped around the arm for the blood pressure reading

Aneroid Monitors 

Aneroid blood pressure monitors use a dial gauge, like a speedometer in a car, for the blood pressure reading.  Another feature of the Aneroid monitors is that the cuff is inflated by hand. One of the advantages is that the Aneroid monitors are less expensive then the digital ones. However a downside is that they can be easily damaged which could lead to inaccurate readings.


Digital Monitors

Digital monitors are the most popular of blood pressure monitors. For the most part digital monitors are very similar to the Aneroid ones with the exception that the blood pressure readings are recorded to a digital screen. Some of the digital monitors do have additional features, like keeping track of previous readings.

There are basically two different types of digital blood pressure monitors: the automatic and the manual. Manual monitors are like the Aneroid ones in that the cuff has to be pumped up by hand. However the blood pressure readings are displayed on a digital screen.  The automatic digital monitors, as you would expect, automatically pump up the cuff for you.


Wrist and finger Monitors

Other options for blood pressure monitors are the wrist and finger monitors. The only real benefit for these type of monitors is that they are easy to use and are very portable. However, the negative aspects for the wrist and finger blood pressure monitors out way the good.  These monitors are not as accurate as the Aneroid and digital monitors.  One of the main problems with the accuracy is that the pulse in the wrist and the fingertips is a lot weaker than it is in the upper arm.  Another factor that can affect the readings is that the body’s temperature can impact the blood pressure results.

Key information:

If you decide to purchase an Aneroid or digital blood pressure monitor you will want to make sure that the cuff size for the monitor is the right size for your arm.  Purchasing a monitor with a cuff that is too small for your arm will produce inaccurate readings.

Information on how you should take your blood pressure should come with the monitor:

	1.  Avoid eating and exercising at least 30 minutes before taking your readings.
	2.  If you are a smoker make sure that you also do not smoke for at least 30 minutes before the readings
	3.  Relax a few minutes before taking your readings.
	4.  Do not wrap the cuff too tight around the arm.  The skin should not be pinched by the cuff.
	5.  Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor.  Place your arm on a table so that the cuff is at the same level as your heart

---

Don't forget to also check out eBay for great bargains when looking for new and used fitness equipment.  You can access eBay now by clicking on the banner below.

 

If you found information on this site helpful then we invite you to Tell a Friend