How Does a Blood Pressure Monitor Work?
Arterial blood pressure is measured at the wrist or upper arm. With an upper-arm or wrist blood pressure monitor, a cuff is placed around the arm and inflated with air. The inflated cuff compresses the blood vessels in the arm until no more blood flows through them and no pulse can be measured. The air is then slowly released so that blood can suddenly flow through the vessels again. This sudden blood flow can be heard through a stethoscope as a sound known as the pulse tone.
After this phase, the values are determined based on the first and last audible pulse tones. The first value represents systolic pressure, and the second represents diastolic pressure. The term systole describes the phase in which the heart muscle contracts and pumps blood into the aorta. When the heart muscle relaxes, this is called diastole.
Fully automatic blood pressure monitors register blood flow via a pressure sensor and calculate the result from the data received. Blood pressure measurements are usually given in mmHg (millimeters of mercury). Normal blood pressure is around 120/80 mmHg. Persistent values above 140/90 mmHg are concerning and should be examined by a doctor as soon as possible.
Whether for private or professional use: you can now find the right blood pressure monitor in our online shop.
What Is the Role of Blood Pressure?
Our blood pressure is dynamic and fluctuates throughout the day. In situations involving stress or physical activity, it rises sharply and adapts to the body's current demands. This means that the muscles receive a better blood supply and sufficient oxygen during exertion. On the other hand, blood pressure falls when you are resting and relaxing. It reaches its lowest value during sleep. During sleep, the heart is not challenged as much as it is during the day and can recover.
Many people, especially older adults, rely on upper-arm or wrist blood pressure monitors. Almost one in three Germans suffers from so-called hypertension - high blood pressure. In the long term, this places strain on the cardiovascular system and can lead to heart attacks, strokes and various other diseases. Hypertension should therefore be detected as early as possible. Low blood pressure - hypotension - is not usually considered a disease. Nevertheless, a doctor should be consulted if accompanying symptoms such as dizziness, headache or fatigue occur.
Measure Blood Pressure Correctly with a Blood Pressure Monitor
Blood pressure monitors for home use make it easier for you to take care of your health. For accurate measurement results, the following points should be observed:
- always measure at the same time in the morning and evening
- rest for at least five minutes before taking the measurement
- avoid stress, smoking, coffee, alcohol and physical activity for at least half an hour beforehand
- place your arm in a comfortable and relaxed position
- always measure on the same arm
- the cuff on the blood pressure monitor must always be at heart level
- repeat the measurement after one minute and record the measured values
- use suitable blood pressure monitors if you have a heart rhythm disorder (arrhythmia)
In addition to blood pressure monitors, you will also find heart rate monitors at Medicalcorner24®. We also offer accessories for your measuring devices. Buy the right blood pressure monitor now!