The American Heart Association advises people with high blood pressure to self-monitor on a daily basis. It also suggests keeping a diary of all readings for references. It is important that the cuff fits, especially if being used for children or larger arms and that it is validated and tested by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, the International Protocol for the Validation of Automated BP Measuring Devices, or the British Hypertension Society. A healthcare professional can offer advice in selecting and using a blood pressure monitor for home use.
Mabis 04-255-001 Dot Matrix Digital Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor
This monitor fits on the wrist and offers large digital read-outs and fingertip on-and-off buttons. It shows pressure and pulse, graphs up to 60 readings for two people, uses AAA batteries and comes in a carrying case. It sells for $60 to $120. The AHA notes that readings at the wrist can be inaccurate if the monitor isn't positioned properly, but for many people, wrist monitors are easier to use than upper-arm monitors.
Panasonic EW3152W Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor
The Panasonic upper arm monitor is a free standing unit with a small display monitor to one side. There is no cuff, the arm is freely inserted through the opening. It has a two person memory, one button on-and-off, and uses an AC adapter or AA batteries. It retails at about $130.
Panasonic EW3109ACW Portable Automatic Arm Blood Pressure Monitor
This Panasonic blood pressure monitor has a Velcro armband and attached monitor with a large display. It fits small and large arms, signals when pressure is in the hypertensive range and has a memory storage of up to 90 readings. It operates on AA batteries, has an AC adapter and offers a 24 hour helpline. It retails between $70 to $90.
ADC Aneroid Sphygmomanometer Blood Pressure Cuff
The ADC aneroid sphygmomanometer cuff is similar to the monitors seen in doctors' offices and hospitals. A cuff wraps around the upper arm and a bulb is continuously squeezed to inflate it. A gauge read-out is attached to a hose. It is a manual monitor and a stethoscope is required. It is made in the United States and comes with a 20 year calibration warranty. It retails for $24 to $34.
References
- American Heart Association: Choosing a Home Blood Pressure Monitor
- Amazon.com: Mabis 04-255-001 Dot Matrix Digital Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor
- Amazon.com: Panasonic EW3152W Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor
- Amazon.com: Panasonic EW3109ACW Portable Automatic Arm Blood Pressure Monitor with AC Adapter
- Amazon.com: ADC Aneroid Sphygmomanometer Blood Pressure Cuff
