According to doctors, you can track a person's he alth problems by measuring his blood pressure. Any pathology in the body is immediately reflected in these indicators. For the timely detection of diseases, complex tests are not required, it is enough to periodically check the pressure using a special device - a tonometer.
Such a compact important assistant should be present in absolutely every home. Doctors explain this advice by the fact that hypertension (high blood pressure) does not occur overnight, but develops gradually, therefore it is easier to treat it at the initial stages.
What is a blood pressure monitor
The generally accepted definition says: a tonometer is a special device whose task is to measure a person's blood pressure. Thanks to this device, it becomes possible to diagnose cardiovascular diseases at an early stage and block their development.
Depending on the method of operation, several types of devices are distinguished.
- Mechanical. To use this device, air is manually inflated with a tonometer bulb into a cuff attached to the patient's shoulder. After that, slightly open the valve and listen with a phonendoscope to the end andbeginning of tones.
-
Electronic. When using this device, a phonendoscope is not required - the tonometer calculates the values itself and displays ready-made results on the scoreboard.
Electronic models are divided into 2 types:
- tonometer semi-automatic;
- automatic.
In semi-automatic models, air is pumped into the cuff with a pear. The automatic does the job itself.
Advantages of semi-automatic blood pressure monitor
When buying a blood pressure monitor, most consumers prefer semi-automatic models. There are several explanations for this.
- Easy to use. Unlike the mechanical version, the semi-automatic tonometer is as easy to use as possible. To do this, you just need to fix the cuff on your arm and pump air with a pear. All measurements will be taken automatically.
- Low price. Unlike fully automatic products, a semi-automatic is an order of magnitude cheaper. This is what makes it affordable for most buyers.
-
Speed of measurement. The whole procedure takes no more than a minute. This will allow you to quickly respond to any change in state.
What to look for when buying
Manufacturers of medical devices offer a wide range of blood pressure monitors, so the average buyer will have to decide for a long time: a semi-automatic blood pressure monitor, which one is better. In fact, to choose the right device, you do not need tohave some special knowledge. It is enough to identify the basic requirements of the person who will most often use the device.
- Body weight. Semi-automatic blood pressure cuffs come in different sizes.
- Vision quality. For people with poor eyesight, you should choose a model with a large display or with the function of voicing the result. The cost of the latter will be slightly higher.
- Age. Older people often complain of poor memory, so it makes sense for them to purchase a blood pressure monitor with built-in memory. In this case, the result is automatically saved.
-
Presence of arrhythmia. Among the additional functions, there is one that helps to determine the arrhythmia.
- Meal type. Most often, blood pressure monitors run on batteries, but there are those that can be connected to the mains using an adapter. This option should be considered if an elderly or seriously ill person is often left alone at home (relatives at work) or even lives alone. In this case, dead batteries will not affect the ability to control pressure.
Package type
Each semi-automatic blood pressure monitor is placed in a special package. It is best to store the device in it. The packaging not only facilitates storage, but also prolongs the life of the tonometer: it protects it from moisture, dust and direct sunlight.
At the same time, there are 2 types of packaging: soft (made in the form of a handbag), hard (plastic container). Andboth options work great, but there are some differences. The plastic container can protect the tonometer from damage upon impact. For this reason, it is better to choose such containers for mobile people and active travelers.
What should be the cuff for the blood pressure monitor
The cuff is no less important, since it is she who is responsible for the quality of fixing the device on the arm. First of all, before buying, you should check the sizes:
- children - 15-22 cm;
- medium - 25-36cm;
- large - 36-42 cm.
For secure fastening, you need high-quality Velcro. There is no need to rush to pay, it is worth sticking and sticking the cuff again. If you have to make a little effort for this, you can take a tonometer.
Semiautomatic tonometer: which one is better
Speaking of the best semi-automatic blood pressure monitors, it is impossible to name a specific brand and model, since all devices of this type presented today have different characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. However, there are several options that are in high demand among buyers and are recommended by doctors as quite reliable and easy to use.
AND UA-705. The tonometer, produced by a Japanese company, is as simple as possible, convenient and durable. Among its benefits:
- large display with large numbers;
- determination of cardiac arrhythmias;
- economy of battery power (up to 2000 measurements);
- Guaranteed period of use - 7 years.
Omron S1. Japanese medical device, the hallmark of which is compactness. Its advantages can be considered:
- large display;
- mini size (fits in the palm of an adult);
- fan-shaped cuff (feels more comfortable on the arm);
- memory for 14 measurements;
- high precision;
- 5 year warranty.
Nissei DS-137. The device is also made by a Japanese company and deserves attention no less than the two previous contenders. Recognized for the following characteristics:
- easy to use (only one button is used to start and end work);
- memory for 30 measurements;
- comparatively low price;
- 5 year warranty.
Having studied in detail the requirements for semi-automatic blood pressure monitors and the features of this device, it can be noted that the device has several advantages over mechanical models, but is still inferior to automatic electronic devices. In order to choose the right medical equipment of this type, you should pay attention to all the little things in the store.
