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- Photo: Omron
People who suffer from high and low blood pressure should be checking their pressure often. There are usually no symptoms for these conditions, so having your own blood pressure monitor is important. There are a variety of makes that will allow you to measure your pressure reliably. It’s essential to understand how to use blood pressure monitors, and know which makes are highly recommended in order to make an informed purchase.
Understanding blood pressure
The top number one blood pressure monitors is the systolic number (the highest pressure when your heart beats). The lower number is the diastolic (the lowest pressure of your heart between beats.) A reading of 90 over 60 (90/60) means your blood pressure is low. Between 90/60 and 120/80 means your BP reading is perfect. Higher than 120/80 but lower than 140/90 means your BP is normal but a little high. The BP reading to try and avoid is over 140/90, which means your blood pressure is high, and you should see a doctor.
Omron blood pressure monitors
Omron have a range of home blood pressure monitors. The Omron M6 is a new addition to the brand, and with a large display, the reading will be clear. It also has function that shows if body movement has affected the reading, notifying you that the measurements need to be redone. The Omron M7 has a comfortable upper arm cuff and is easy to use. The MX3 Plus is a compact little device that gives your pulse rate as well as the BP reading.
Microlife
- Photo: Microlife
The BP A100 is an upper arm automatic blood pressure monitor that gives accurate BP readings. It has PAD technology which can detect arrhythmia. With a built in memory, you can record your readings over a period of weeks. Microlife also have a range of wrist monitors which will give you BP readings and pulse measurements. Both upper arm and wrist monitors work the same; it depends on which one is more comfortable for you.
A and D instruments
- Photo: Omron
With a range of makes to choose from, A and D offer reliable automatic BP readings. The UA-851 has a 90 reading memory, and has irregular heartbeat detection. It reads fast and has a large display screen with only medium and large cuff sizes. The UA-767PC allows you to download data and can communicate with your PC via an embedded RS-232C port. It can store up to 126 BP readings, giving you steady information of your progress.
Approval
All these makes have been approved by the British Hypertension Society. Stable blood pressure is important for a healthy life, so checking up on it every now and again is a smart move. Checking your blood pressure at home offers a relaxed environment, with none of the anxiety involved in going to the doctor.
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