A routine blood pressure reading is modern days medical need! But how accurate are at-home blood pressure monitors? Find out in this article.
Quick Summary
- At-home blood pressure monitors are one of the most widely purchased cardiac health devices on the market.
- Even though they give accurate readings similar to clinical measurements, the way you use them matters and, therefore, can result in false readings at times.
- It is advised to occasionally check your blood pressure at the doctor’s office to ensure you are getting it right while checking with your home blood pressure monitor.
The accuracy of a monitor is essential for the proper monitoring and management of hypertension. As you might know, high blood pressure can be deadly over time and is called a silent killer.
An inaccurate blood pressure monitor can lead to false readings, and as a result, the person may not receive the necessary treatment. It also can lead to over-treatment and unnecessary medication, which can have negative side effects.
Furthermore, inaccurate readings can also cause confusion and added stress for the person being monitored.
Since we are all transitioning towards an at-home blood pressure monitor, it is highly relevant to understand what a blood pressure monitor is and if we can trust the readings of these devices.
In fact, if you can figure out something is wrong, you always have a choice to visit your physician to rectify and get proper medical care.Â
In this article, you will learn more about the accuracy and reliability of at-home blood pressure monitors and some of the most popular blood pressure monitors on the market.
Without further ado, let us move to the crux of this topic.
How Accurate Are At-Home Blood Pressure Monitors?
The accuracy of the reading can vary depending on the type of blood pressure monitor and brand that you are using.Â
Automatic cuff monitors, which are the most commonly used type of at-home blood pressure monitors, are generally considered to be accurate when used correctly.
According to research, when compared to readings taken by a healthcare professional, automatic at-home blood pressure monitors can have an error rate of up to 5 mm Hg for systolic and 10 mm Hg for diastolic pressure.
However, it is important to note that these errors are within the acceptable range for blood pressure measurement.
It is also important to note that manual blood pressure monitors have a higher chance of error as it requires skill and experience to use them properly.
To ensure correct readings, it is important to use the monitor according to the manufacturer’s instructions, use the right cuff size, and ensure the monitor is properly calibrated.
It is also a good idea to have your blood pressure checked by a trained professional or your physician to ensure that the readings from your at-home monitor are accurate.
What All Determines The Accuracy Of Blood Pressure Readings?
Lots of factors can affect the accuracy of blood pressure readings that you are taking at home; these include:
- Cuff size: The cuff size should be appropriate for the individual’s arm size. Using a cuff that is too small or too large can result in inaccurate readings.
- The technique of measurement: The technique of measurement should be followed as per the instructions. Improper technique can result in inaccurate readings.
- Calibration: The device should be properly calibrated, and the manufacturer’s instructions should be followed.
- Positioning: The person should be seated in a comfortable position with their back supported, legs uncrossed and arm kept at the level of the heart.
- Time of measurement: The time of measurement is also important; it’s recommended to measure it at the same time every day and avoid measuring it immediately after physical activities, smoking, or caffeine consumption.
- The individual’s own physiology: Some medical conditions, such as arrhythmias, can affect the accuracy of blood pressure readings.
Should You Visit Your Doctor Even If You Have At-Home Blood Pressure Monitor?
While at-home blood pressure monitors can be a convenient and useful tool for monitoring your blood pressure, it’s important to note that they are not a substitute for regular check-ups with a healthcare professional.
Your doctor can confirm the accuracy of your at-home blood pressure readings and ensure that you use the device correctly.
Blood pressure is just one aspect of your overall health. A doctor can evaluate your overall health and determine if there are any other factors that may be contributing to high blood pressure or if you have any other health conditions that may require treatment.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension, your doctor will monitor your blood pressure over time and adjust your treatment plan as needed. This may involve adjusting medications, making lifestyle changes, or both.
Also, your doctor can advise you on lifestyle changes that can help you manage your cardiovascular health, such as eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular exercise.
Which Are Some Of Recommended Blood Pressure Monitors?
There are many blood pressure monitors on the market, but the Oxiline Pressure X Pro, CheckMe BP2, and QardioArm stand out for their accuracy and convenient features.
Oxiline Pressure X Pro
The Oxiline Pressure X Pro is a high-tech device that uses Bluetooth to connect to a smartphone app for easy tracking and analysis. It can store up to 21 readings and come with multiuser support via the app.
CheckMe BP2
The CheckMe BP2 is a compact and portable device that can be carried in a pocket or purse. It is easy to use, with one-touch operation and a large, easy-to-read display. The device also stores up to 50 readings, allowing users to track their blood pressure over the app.
Qardioarm
The QardioArm is a sleek, stylish device that connects to a smartphone app for easy tracking and analysis. The QardioArm is also FDA-approved and has received accolades from the American Heart Association.
Overall, these three blood pressure monitors offer accurate readings, convenient features, and stylish designs.
Conclusion
At-home blood pressure monitors can vary in terms of accuracy, but automatic cuff monitors are considered to be accurate when used correctly.
However, factors such as cuff size, the technique of measurement, and the individual’s own physiology can affect the accuracy of the readings. In a nutshell, you must know how a blood pressure monitor works to use it correctly.
Research shows that automatic at-home blood pressure monitors can have an error rate of up to 5 mm Hg for systolic and 10 mm Hg for diastolic pressure when compared to readings taken by a healthcare professional.
It is important to use the monitor according to the manufacturer’s instructions, use the correct cuff size and make sure the monitor is properly calibrated to ensure accurate readings.
Not to mention, you need to use an approved and clinically validated device to ensure an accurate reading.
Robin Backlund is a dedicated journalist and a medical student who has written several articles and essays exposing the falseness and hollowness of online resources in the medical science niche.