Many healthcare specialists suggest home blood pressure monitors for patients with hypertension. But are these devices accurate enough? A small new study says no.
Blood pressure machines are widely available at medical stores and online. Through a BP monitor device, people use this device to track their blood pressure levels at home. This helps the patient’s doctor identify whether the patient is suffering from hypertension or hypotension or properly controlling it.
Checking blood pressure at home is necessary for managing hypertension. Even the American Heart Association has recommended that hypertensive patients monitor their blood pressure levels at home. Regular digital blood pressure monitoring helps you control your blood pressure level, show if your blood pressure medication works, and alert you and your doctor about any health complications.
According to a recent study, home blood pressure monitors do not provide accurate readings. Researchers found that only 30% of these devices are the most accurate home blood pressure monitors, while the rest, 70%, provide inaccurate readings. This could cause serious complications for those who depend completely on these home blood pressure monitors and make unsuitable health decisions. These devices have been found inaccurate with systolic blood pressure, and a great difference has been seen among them. These findings suggest that in-home devices are not the most accurate blood pressure monitor.
Choose the right system
Home blood pressure monitors are available widely without a prescription. Home monitoring is a good way to improve your health condition. But, before you start with these devices, it is very important to find a good device and know how to use it correctly.
Most clinical guidelines endorse using home blood pressure monitoring to manage blood pressure levels. So, we need to find ways to improve accuracy. It is always important to purchase a blood pressure machine and use a blood pressure cuff of the proper size.
The pharmaceutical industry is loaded with claiming the best blood pressure monitoring machines, but only a few show accurate blood pressure. A few things must be considered while purchasing a blood pressure monitoring machine. Always remember that the home blood pressure device that wraps around the upper arm has been shown to give more accurate readings than the wrist monitors. This is one of the most important factors that should be considered to get accurate readings.
Important tips to achieve accurate readings
If your doctor recommends buying the best blood pressure monitor for home use, choose one that meets your requirements. Once you get your device at home, read and use the instructions correctly. You can also consult your doctor to know more about the machine. Some important guidelines that need to be followed while using a blood pressure monitor:
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- Relax before measuring your blood pressure and ensuring your bladder is empty. Use the toilet before using the device, as a full bladder can affect readings.
- Do not consume caffeine, tobacco, or alcohol for at least half an hour before testing.
- Ensure that you are sitting comfortably with your arm properly set on a tablet.
- Before using the device, ensure you know how to read and record the results.
- Check whether the blood pressure cuffs are properly fitted into your arm.
- If you just came from outside or used the stairs, wait for at least 15 to 30 minutes and allow your body to relax.
Carefully follow all the instructions that come with your device or those given by your healthcare specialist. You can also ask your doctor to recommend the best home blood pressure monitor machine that can provide the most accurate readings. Another way of buying the right device is to read customers’ feedback. Read blood pressure monitor reviews on the website where you intend to buy the machine. This way, you can get an idea of other customers’ experiences.
High blood pressure treatment decisions must be based on multiple blood pressure records. Moreover, double-checking or measuring your blood pressure is always a good idea when you are in doubt. Put a pause of 15 minutes and make yourself comfortable before checking your blood pressure again.
