How to choose a blood pressure monitor

May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month, and those who suffer from hypertension know that keeping their numbers at healthy levels will require a combination of a healthy diet, exercise and even medication in some cases. However, many physicians will suggest the purchase of a blood pressure monitor for patients with hypertension. These machines provide an easy way to record daily readings to evaluate the efficacy of a hypertension treatment plan, but there are certainly a lot of products on the market to choose from!

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Here are a few ways to pick the perfect blood pressure monitor:

Professionally Certified

There's a lot of misinformation out there, but when it comes to your health, you shouldn't cut any corners. Make sure your blood pressure monitor has been thoroughly tested and certified by important medical professional associations like the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, the British Hypertension Society or the International Protocol for the Validation of BP Measuring Devices. Additionally, it may be wise to check with your doctor before making a purchase for his/her seal of approval for your unique needs.

Smartphone-Enabled

A growing number of blood pressure monitors now feature smartphone compatibility with iPhone and Android devices that can run interactive apps to track your numbers over time. This can make it much easier to visualize a long-term picture of your blood pressure numbers and dramatically improve your organizational skills. It's also much easier at the doctor's office to pull out your phone with all of the data ready to go!

A Proper Fit

The vast majority of blood pressure monitors utilize cuffs that go over the upper arm that gently squeeze the area and measure the user's blood pressure. Cuffs come in a wide variety of sizes, so it may be wise to have you or a loved one's arm measured for a cuff at a medical supply store before making a major purchase.

Automatic or Manual?

While most of us are familiar with the manual style of blood pressure monitor that is found in the doctor's office, the vast majority will utilize automatic, digital variants that measure blood pressure at the upper arm. This styles are the most accurate, as opposed to other devices that may measure through the wrist or finger. While manual blood pressure monitors may be reliable, automatic monitors with their extended lists of features and ease of use may make them the better buy.

If you're in the market for diagnostic equipment or anything else regarding your health, make sure to check out FSAstore.com! We have the web's largest selection of FSA eligible products to support the health and wellness of you and your loved ones.