Page 6 - MAYO CLINIC Head to Toe e-magazine 293700

3 Choosing a home blood pressure unit

You can track your blood pressure by using a home monitor between
checkups To choose the best monitor for you, ask your doctor for
advice and balance convenience with accuracy:
• Know your options
Manual blood pressure monitors use a stethoscope and an inflatable
arm cuff connected by a rubber tube to a gauge that records the
pressure Digital monitors have a cuff that automatically inflates and
a gauge that records blood pressure Manual monitors are usually
less expensive than digital monitors, but can be more difficult to
use If your heart rhythm is usually irregular, a digital model may
give you an inaccurate reading Wrist and finger monitors provide
less reliable readings
• Get a good fit

Many monitors offer different-sized cuffs, so make sure to buy the
right size for your arm A poor fit reduces accuracy Measure
around your upper arm to choose the correct cuff size
• Consider your abilities

Is the gauge or digital display large enough to read easily? Do you hear
well through a stethoscope? Can you easily pump the inflatable cuff
on a manual model?
• Choose a validated monitor
Look for a model that’s been validated, meaning its readings are accu-
rate and repeatable
• Learn how to use it properly
After you buy a blood pressure monitor, take it with you to your
doctor’s office In addition to making sure the device works properly,
your doctor or nurse can help you learn how to use it
• Check accuracy
Every six to 12 months, have your home monitor checked against a
standardized unit at your doctor’s office, fire department or public
health service

50 Head-to-Toe Health Tips 5