High blood pressure is a chronic disorder which has to be kept under control to ensure that the ensuing ailments stay at bay. The class of drug and the dosage used to control the condition will often depend on the patient’s specific medical needs. Most experts suggest that the only way to rein in the condition and to ensure the efficacy of the remedial measures is to frequently monitor the patient’s blood pressure and to keep a record of the readings. Fortunately, there is no need to drag yourself to the clinic every time you want to have your blood pressure checked because this can easily be accomplished through the use of an aneroid blood pressure monitor.
Why an aneroid blood pressure monitor?
While digital blood pressure monitors are easily available, aneroid sphygmomanometer instruments are still very popular among doctors and patients alike. Although digital devices have ease of usage working in their favor, aneroid monitors can be carried around easily, so they are very handy for people who have to travel frequently.
The cuff device in several versions of the aneroid pressure monitor comes with a built in stethoscope, so you do not have to invest in the equipment separately. This feature makes the monitor easy to use and handle. Some units also boast of several other features that make it simpler to get the cuff on with just one hand. However, the primary advantage of aneroid monitors is their low cost; these devices are extremely affordable at just $20 to$40, this certainly gives them an edge over the more expensive digital monitors.
How to use an aneroid blood pressure monitor
Aneroid pressure monitors can be complicated looking devices that will need a little getting used to. However, once the patient gets the hang of it, he/she should have no problem monitoring his/her blood pressure several times a day which will often only take a few minutes.
One of the reasons for the popularity of aneroid monitors is their accuracy which can far supersede that of digital devices. In order to monitor your blood pressure with the device, start by placing the cuff around the upper arm, just above the elbow. Ensure that the cuff is not too small or big as this can mar the accuracy of the readings. The cuff is perfect for you if you are using more than 80% of the fabric strip.
When measuring your blood, you should be comfortably seated with your feet on the floor and your arm that has the cuff on supported.
Find the brachial artery which is in the crook of your arm, opposite the elbow. This is a major artery and it is in line with your pinkie. Place the in built stethoscope on the artery and squeeze the bulb till the cuff is inflated 30-40 points above the previous systolic reading.
Release the pressure and hear for the distinct swooshing sound, note the reading; this is the systolic pressure. Continue listening till you can no longer hear the sound, notice the reading on the dial again; this is the diastolic pressure.
High blood pressure is a silent killer, even when the condition is asymptomatic, it can lead to the development of other acute disorders including cardiac and coronary conditions that can lead to heart attack, stroke and even a cardiac failure in worst cases. So, it’s best to not ignore the condition and monitor it constantly to stay on top of the ailment.
Nicole Roberts
LifeSavingMonitors.com offers high quality, affordable aneroid blood pressure monitor with smart technology.
