The Best Sphygmomanometer

Buying Guide

A sphygmomanometer is an important medical device that is used to measure a person’s blood pressure. The reading consists of systolic (level your pressure raises to during a heartbeat) and diastolic (level your pressure rests at in between heartbeats) levels. If your blood pressure tends to run too high or too low, you may want to purchase a sphygmomanometer to keep an eye on it at home.

When shopping for a sphygmomanometer, determine where you’re the most comfortable placing the cuff. While most models are wrapped around the upper arm, there are blood pressure devices that slide up over your wrist. The Paramed Automatic Wrist Sphygmomanometer is one such model. It even comes with a handy carrying case, which is a nice bonus if you tend to travel frequently.

Review the materials used to construct the sphygmomanometer. This is important for two reasons. First, you want a unit that is comfortable. Second, if you suffer from a latex allergy, you need to go with a model that is hypoallergenic. The Paramed Manual Aneroid Sphygmomanometer is made from an extra-durable nylon and a soft Velcro strip. The body is constructed from a durable zinc alloy, and the valve is equipped with a reticulated filter that keeps dust from clogging up the device.

Check how easy the sphygmomanometer is to use. If you’re in the medical profession, a manual model is probably what you’re used to using; however, manual sphygmomanometers are more difficult for laypeople to get the hang of. An automatic version might be better. The Lovia Upper Arm Automatic Sphygmomanometer has an easy-to-read LCD screen. The screen is on the larger side and the unit uses just one button to start and stop the reading.

Look at what readings the sphygmomanometer is able to provide. Some models are only capable of giving you your blood pressure results, while others include your pulse. There are even devices that alert you when they detect an irregular heartbeat. If you need to keep track of your blood pressure readings over a period of time, consider a unit with a memory function. This function is designed to hold between 90 and 120 of your most recent results.

• It is important to check that everything you need to use the sphygmomanometer is included with your purchase. Several models require the use of a stethoscope to take readings with their cuff, so if you don’t already own one, you’ll need to count the cost of buying one separately.
• While manual sphygmomanometers don’t require power to produce readings, automatic models do. Check to the type and number of batteries required to operate the automatic device, so you can purchase them at the same time. Otherwise, you’ll get the sphygmomanometer and not be able to use it.
• If you have more than one individual in your home that needs to keep track of their blood pressure, consider a automatic sphygmomanometer with a two-user interface.
• Always check the instruction booklet provided with your blood pressure monitor, as it will show you the proper position to be in to obtain accurate results. For example, when using a wrist sphygmomanometer, you need to keep your arm at a 45-degree angle instead of flat on a table.
• When it comes to the cost of a sphygmomanometer, you’ll find that most units are within a dollar or two of each other. So, the Paramed Manual Aneroid Sphygmomanometer, Paramed Automatic Wrist Sphygmomanometer  and Lovia Upper Arm Automatic Sphygmomanometer can be purchased based off of user preference, as their cost is pretty much equal.