by Blood pressure is one of the most important vitals that indicate our overall health and wellbeing. Having high blood pressure or hypertension can significantly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke if left uncontrolled. With the availability of advanced blood pressure monitoring devices, it is now easier than ever for individuals to regularly check and manage their blood pressure from the comfort of their home. In this article, we will take a detailed look at some of the most popular blood pressure monitoring devices available in the market today.
Types of Blood Pressure Monitors
There are different types of blood pressure monitors available depending on the method of measurement and features. Some of the main types include:
Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors
Wrist blood pressure monitors work by wrapping around the wrist like a watch. They are highly convenient to use as they don’t require inflating a cuff. However, they may not be as accurate as upper-arm monitors. Some popular wrist monitors include Omron Hem-747IC and QardioArm.
Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitors
Upper arm or brachial blood pressure monitors are considered the gold standard as they take measurements from the upper arm similarly to what doctors use in their clinics. They require inflating a cuff around the upper arm. Models like Omron 10 Series, BP785N and Panasonic EW3152W are some reliable options.
Finger Blood Pressure Monitors
Finger cuff blood pressure monitors work by placing a small cuff around the finger. They are convenient but may not be as accurate as wrist or arm monitors. Devices like iHealth Snap and Kinsa Smart Thermometer with Blood Pressure include finger monitors.
How Blood Pressure Monitors Work
Both wrist and upper arm Blood Pressure Monitoring Devices work on the oscillometric method. Here are the basic steps:
– The cuff is wrapped securely around the wrist or upper arm.
– The cuff then inflates to block the artery.
– The monitor detects blood flow oscillations in the artery as the cuff slowly deflates.
– Using an automated algorithm, it derives the systolic and diastolic pressures from these oscillations.
– The reading is then digitally displayed on the monitor.
Modern monitors are able to store readings over time for periodic review by the user or their doctor. Bluetooth enabled models can also share readings wirelessly with smartphones.
Popular Blood Pressure Monitor Brands
Given the importance of accurate readings, it’s recommended to choose monitors from reputed manufacturers. Here are some of the top brands in blood pressure monitors:
Omron
Omron is consistently ranked among the most accurate blood pressure monitor brands by various clinical studies. Their Gold Standard models like BP785N and HEM-907XL are highly recommended.
Panasonic
Panasonic offers a wide range including upper arm, wrist and pocket sized monitors. Their EW3152W is well-liked for easy one-touch operation.
Withings
Withings combines attractive design with clinical accuracy. The BP-800 smart upper arm monitor can store up to 32 readings on the device or their mobile app.
iHealth
iHealth is known for affordable, no-frill devices great for occasional use. Models like iHealth Core and iHealth Edge work with iOS and Android apps for tracking.
Choose a Monitor Based on Your Needs
When selecting a home blood pressure monitor, consider the following factors based on your specific needs:
– Accuracy – Choose a clinically validated monitor from a reputed brand.
– Ease of use – Wrist and upper arm devices are convenient but may need larger cuffs for larger arms.
– Cuff size – Most monitors come with regular and large cuff sizes. Choose based on your arm size.
– Storage – Models with internal memory or app sync are best to track readings over time.
– Connectivity – Bluetooth monitors easily share readings to your phone/doctor via apps.
– Budget – Price ranges from $50-200 depending on features. Check for sales.
Regular Self-Monitoring is Important
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
