It is more convenient to have your own blood pressure monitor at home if you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or hypertension. You could do monitoring in the comfort of your own home rather than going to the doctor's clinic. You can also go to Walgreens, Sam's Club or other pharmacies that have the sit down automatic blood pressure machines available to customers who want to check their own blood pressure. These checks are fairly accurate, but your blood pressure may be different than it would be if you were checking at home. Part of the reason is that some people may be more anxious outside their home. Your blood pressure may also fluctuate depending on the time of the day. Think about it, you're out shopping, driving around, dealing with traffic, trying to find things in the store, and then waiting patiently to check out (many times not). Your blood pressure is bound to be a little high, and yes, it is normal for it to fluctuate throughout the day. But stress also has significant impact on your blood pressure. You might be better off having your own blood pressure monitor at home to check it at times when you are not influenced by the hustle going on in the world outside. There are many different types of blood pressure monitors available for home use in the market. Most of them can be purchased in most pharmacies and online sites. Prices varies from as low as $25 and up to $300 and more, depending on the features of the unit, and whether it is electric, battery operated or manual. Blood pressure monitors also come in different types that can perform the test using the finger, wrist, or arm. Some of them inflate automatically and others must be pumped up manually with the attached bulb. Larger sized cuffs are also available if needed, and most if not all blood pressure monitors will tell the individual their pulse as well as blood pressure reading. To go just a bit further, some blood pressure monitors will also tell the user if an irregular heartbeat, if a low or high reading is detected, and will give you average of three readings. Most blood pressure monitors also come with a carrying case, batteries, and forms to record your readings. More expensive models have more features, more than one size cuff, extra bulbs, and just about extra everything. All these bells and whistles are really not necessary. A basic unit from Walgreens for $35 will serve you just fine. Most blood pressure monitors offer a warranty card you can send in; along with an address you can send it to if you have any problems with the blood pressure monitor. Besides, if you have bought an inexpensive unit, it may just be worth it to just replace with another unit, instead of taking all the time and trouble to send the monitor in for repairs. A home blood pressure monitor is a real life saver. Remember, hypertension is a silent killer. |
