With the rise of blood pressure related illnesses, it has now become imperative that individuals monitor blood pressure on their own on a regular basis. Blood pressure measures force of the blood flow inside an artery. This can now be done from the comfort of your home with the help of blood pressure monitoring gadgets available in the market. There are two kinds of blood pressure machines that help to keep track of changes in blood pressure. Read on to gauge the best choice between these:
Manual Blood Pressure Monitors:
Manual blood pressure monitors are cost effective as compared to digital monitors, but their usage is more difficult. They are also known as aneroid monitors. Sometimes referred to as sphygmomanometer too, the setup includes an arm cuff, squeeze bulb to inflate the cuff, stethoscope and a gauge to measure the blood pressure. Blood pressure is displayed on a dial with a needle. Rising pressure in the cuff makes the needle move clockwise and falling pressure results in anti-clockwise movement. The dial markings indicate the pressure level.
Generally these machines are not battery operated and cost around $50. The downside to this device is that, if you suffer from arthritis and pain, you could have trouble squeezing the ball with force. It is also difficult for a person with hearing issues to hear the heart beat through the stethoscope.
Digital Blood Pressure Monitors:
These are electronic battery operated blood pressure machine and the force of blood pulsating through the arteries is measured with a microphone. It is a very handy device as well. The cuff is attached to your wrist or arm and is connected to a digital monitor that automatically inflates or deflates at the push of a button. However, this is a more expensive option and would cost anywhere from $100 to $200.
Weigh the pros and cons and purchase one of these indispensable health tools as per your budget and requirement after consulting your doctor. In case you are unsure about operating the monitors, read up the manual that comes with the machine.
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