Manual Blood Pressure Cuffs And Aneroid Blood Pressure Machines

The manual blood pressure cuff is the most common device recommended for people that have to learn how to lower blood pressure quickly. It's small, inexpensive, and relatively easy-to-use. But is it the right one for you? There are some things you need to know before you purchase your manual blood pressure cuff.

First of all, let's talk about how it works. The manual blood pressure cuff is also attached to a machine called an aneroid BP monitor. Unlike the typical doctor's office BP monitor with the mercury tube, this simply uses a gauge attached directly to the inflatable cuff, making it safe to use at home. Most of these now come with a stethoscope built in, so it's become much easier monitor your BP by yourself at home.

When I got to the pharmacy, the girl there was very helpful and advised that I try a few manual blood pressure cuffs on first. After a few trials, I found one that was extremely comfortable for me. I learned about the fit (2 fingers must fit snugly under the cuff) and discovered the smooth nylon one felt better against my skin.

Check out the gauge while you're at it, since some come with extremely small numbers that are difficult for those with eyesight problems to read. There are gauges that are easy to read, with extra-large numbers that make them more visible. There are other disadvantages to this manual blood pressure cuff, however. If the cuff doesn't come with a metal ring that allows easy placement on the arm, it's difficult for those who are taking the reading themselves. The rubber bulb attached may be difficult to squeeze for someone with arthritis or other condition that make hand mobility difficult. And since a stethoscope is necessary, it's near-impossible for those who are hearing impaired to hear the sounds. On the pro side, if someone else in your family is trained to take your BP readings, then it's the most practical buy you can make.

Now that you've decided on what manual blood pressure cuff to purchase, let's review your usage. While each one comes with a different manual, there are a few general guidelines to follow: take the BP machine to your doctor's office before you use it so it can be calibrated against the clinic's machine. Repeat this at least once a year. If you drop your aneroid BP machine, have it checked to make sure it's working properly.

The aneroid BP monitor is definitely the best purchase you can make if you must monitor your BP from home. Just check out everything is suitable for you, especially the fit of the manual blood pressure cuff, and you've got yourself an affordable BP monitor you can use for a long, long time.