1. Use a Public Blood Pressure Device
Many public places such as grocery stores, pharmacies and health clubs provide stationary automatic blood pressure devices. You simply place your arm inside the inflatable cuff attached to the chair or machine and press the start button. A pressure sensor designed to measure blood pressure in the arm--even over clothing--is contained within the cuff. The entire process takes less than 90 seconds. The benefits of this method are that the machines are easy to find and generally free to use. The disadvantage is that the machine's accuracy is limited by how often the device is serviced. In some cases, both the systolic and diastolic values can be off by 5 to 10 mm mercury (Hg) or more.
2. Test at Home With an Aneroid Monitor
You can also buy a blood pressure machine (known as a sphygmomanometer) for use at home. One option is an aneroid monitor. This consists of a blood pressure cuff that is connected to a dial gauge, a stethoscope and a rubber bulb. To take a measurement, place the cuff securely around your arm. Using your other hand, pump up the cuff by squeezing the bulb. You will use the stethoscope to listen for pulsing sounds from the artery as the cuff deflates. The gauge reading at the first sound indicates the systolic pressure, while the gauge reading at the last sound indicates the diastolic measure. These devices are portable and are designed for easy self-testing. Aneroid monitors are not recommended for hearing-impaired people though, as sensitive listening is required.
3. Digital Monitors Make Blood Pressure Measurement Quick and Easy
Digital sphygmomanometers are often easier to use than aneroid machines, because the cuff usually inflates automatically with the touch of a button. The gauge and stethoscope are combined in a digital monitor, making listening for pulses unnecessary. The blood pressure measurement is also flashed on a small screen automatically as the cuff deflates, reducing the amount of human error. You can even find models that provide paper printouts for systematic monitoring of your blood pressure. Digital monitors tend to be more expensive than aneroid devices, however.
