Blood pressure is the measurement of the flow pressure of blood in your arteries. The measurement is important as it is highly related to heart disease risk. Your doctor or nurse may measure your blood pressure as part of a routine medical examination, or if you have a family history of high blood pressure, are overweight, or your doctor has concerns about your blood pressure level. You may also need to monitor your own blood pressure at home on a regular basis.
Sphygmomanometers
Arterial blood pressure is most commonly measured via a sphygmomanometer, which historically used the height of a column of mercury to reflect the circulating pressure, thus the unit of measurement is called millimeters of mercury (mmHg). A compression band is placed over the arm, with a stethoscope or microphone over the artery, and as the pressure over the limb is released, there are changes in the blood flow and sounds generated which indicate systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Digital Blood Pressure Monitors
There are also digital blood pressure monitors which read the blood pressure automatically based on variations in the volume of blood in the arteries. They are often used on the wrist, but they can also be placed on the finger or upper arm and are activated simply by pressing a button.
Measuring Blood Pressure at Home
There are many blood pressure units that can be purchased to take your blood pressure at home, that are simple to use and do not require any training. Each blood pressure testing unit is different, you will need to follow the instructions that come with it. These blood pressure measurement units should be used under a doctor's advice. See more information about measuring blood pressure at home.
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- Buy blood pressure equipment
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