Did you ever have to keep track of your blood pressure? Then you must have thought about using a home wrist monitor. This new technology is quickly gaining popularity among health-conscious people. The device is a simple wristband with a watch-like digital interface. It looks high-tech and user-friendly due to its controls and settings. You get regular readings on your blood pressure as it rises or decreases. You can see the device’s appeal as it seems like a device that can give you constant readings to monitor your health and fitness. But there is a catch regarding the use of these wrist blood pressure monitors. If you are facing any illness regarding vascular health and blood pressure, don’t try any home remedies and visit a cardiovascular doctor as soon as possible.
These monitors are not always so accurate. Many experts advise against using these monitors because, comparatively, the monitors used on your biceps are more accurate. They are accurate because the blood vessels are thicker and deeper than the wrist. More blood circulates from your heart to your biceps than your wrist. Professionals operate the armband bp monitors manually. Therefore, they are much more accurate, and medical experts recommend them.
How to Use the Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor
The procedure may seem simple enough, but it’s not. You put on the wrist band and place it 1 to 1.5 centimeters below the base of your wrist. Now you put your elbow on a flat surface and raise your wrist to the level of your heart. The monitor will light the blue signal when your wrist is at the optimal level. Press the start/stop button to start the calculation. The wristband will inflate and tighten around your wrist. Once the band starts to deflate, gently put down your wrist. It will display the reading on the digital screen of your monitor.
Are Wrist BP Monitors Accurate
There are a lot of factors that you need to take into account. The human anatomy, health status, activity, specific needs, and diet are some important factors you need to consider regarding your use of this device. Every person doesn’t have the necessary knowledge and experience regarding the use of a medical instrument. Therefore, the wrist blood pressure monitor accuracy is questionable when you have many factors to account for.
Precautions While Using The Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor
You need to make sure that you don’t take a reading within 30 minutes of the following:
- Eating
- Exercising
- Bathing
- Smoking
- Drinking Alcohol
The reading of these devices is not always accurate. The reason could be anything from weather changes to human error. Only use this device if a doctor recommends it, and ensure to share the readings with your doctor regularly.
Conclusion
Experts do not recommend the use of a wrist blood pressure monitor. But if you have specific needs, you should only use it after a doctor’s recommendation. It’s a helpful tool but not an alternative for professional diagnoses. If you need some expert help regarding your cardiovascular health, please contact Octagos Health at (281) 769-8733.