Month: October 2019

Best Compact Blood Pressure Monitor For Upper Arm in 2020

Best One-piece Upper Arm Compact Blood Pressure Monitors to Buy in 2020

Don’t let the bulky regular blood pressure monitors stop you from keeping tabs on your health.

Yes, we understand that most blood pressure monitors have wires and tubes. Add the extra-large LCD screen display to the kit’s design and what you get is an extremely bulky tool that is quite uncomfortable to use for checking your blood pressure at home.

The bulkiness of most blood pressure monitors can take the ease out of checking your blood pressure on a regular basis.

If you are on this table and is turned off by the bulky blood pressure monitors, you will be glad to know about the new design of BP monitors for home use that makes the regular models look archaic.

The new design features a one-piece, compact blood pressure unit that is so easy to use.

For instance, unlike the regular models that require the use of both hands to put on the blood pressure cuffs, the new design has pre-formed cuffs that you can easily apply correctly and comfortably using only one hand!

With one-piece compact blood pressure monitors, you can easily read and interpret the results of your blood pressure using your smartphone. Yes, the one-piece compact design eliminates the need for the large LCD display screens commonly found in older BP monitors.

What’s the advantage here?

Well, peep this: instead of waiting for your results to be published on the large display screens and then syncing it to your smartphone as it is the case with many regular models, the one-piece compact blood monitors upload results instantly on to your smartphone for you to manage efficiently! You’ll need to download a custom health app (Android/iOS) and install it on your phone to access your BP data.

Now imagine the amount of time you would save by using a one-piece compact blood pressure monitor to check your blood pressure at home instead of the regular BP models?

With the one-piece, compact blood pressure monitor designs, you will have an easy time monitoring your blood pressure from anywhere and anytime. Most of them come with rechargeable batteries that are powerful and long-lasting. In fact, with only one charge using a micro/mini USB cable, the new one-piece compact blood pressure monitors will afford you at least 80 blood pressure measurements before the next recharge is due!

Compared to the regular blood pressure models, the design of the one-piece compact BP unit brings a new meaning to convenience, especially on matters reliability and portability. The one-piece compact blood pressure monitor is one of those innovations that are a must-have, especially if you are keen on keeping track of your heart’s health at home or even while on the go.

If you’re interested in acquiring one of these amazing blood pressure home testing units, here are the best one-piece compact blood pressure monitors you should consider buying in the 2019 market.

Best One-Piece Compact Blood Pressure Monitors For Upper Arm

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#1 Best One-Piece BP Monitor with Dock Design: iHealth Ease Wireless BP Monitor

With the new one-piece compact design, your smartphone becomes part of the BP monitor. We recommend the iHealth Ease Wireless BP Monitor because its design provides stable docking space for your smartphone. Think about this: you won’t have to struggle holding your smartphone while measuring your blood pressure using this unit, because the dock design provides stable support for your iPhone, iPad and Android device!

iHealth Ease Wireless BP Monitor is FDA cleared, meaning the results you get are clinically accurate. In addition, the iHealth MyVitals app that connects to the kit via Bluetooth automatically logs and tracks your blood pressure readings. It also allows one-touch data sharing, and this speaks volumes about its ease of use.

iHealth Ease Wireless BP Monitor reads your diastolic and systolic pressures, your pulse rate, as well as detects irregular heartbeat really fast. The unit takes about 30 seconds to read your blood pressure and provide comprehensive results. The unit takes measurements as the cuffs inflate. The cuffs can comfortably fit upper arms of circumference size 8.7” to 14.2”. You won’t have any problems putting on the cuffs. You can easily wear them using only one hand. The traditional models would require the use of both hands to put on the cuffs.

If you are impressed by the compact one-piece design of iHealth Ease Wireless BP Monitor, the reliability of its rechargeable batteries will excite you. Peep this: with only one charge using a micro USD cable, you can use iHealth Ease Wireless BP Monitor for up to 500 times before the next recharge is due! Even though the charging session takes hours, you won’t have to recharge it frequently considering how long one charging session will last you.

If you consider the amazing features of iHealth Ease Wireless BP Monitor, it easily tops the list of the best one-piece compact blood pressure monitors. This unit is ideal for people who travel a lot because the unit is lightweight, portable and its battery power is extremely reliable. Anyone who takes the health of their heart seriously should consider buying this unit to conveniently check their blood pressure at home.

iHealth Ease Wireless BP Monitor Best Features:

  • Docking space for your smartphone
  • FDA Cleared
  • Fast blood pressure reading with comprehensive results
  • Compatible with both Android and iOS
  • Powerful rechargeable batteries

#2 Best One-Piece BP Monitor with Advanced Accuracy: OMRON Evolv Wireless BP Monitor

Here’s a little secret: the accuracy of blood pressure measurement depends on more than just proper cuff positioning. Even the slightest movement of cuffs during measurements can affect the accuracy of the results you get. Therefore, if your main interest is tracking the most precise, clinically accurate blood pressure readings, you need to consider acquiring the OMRON Evolv Wireless BP Monitor.

What makes OMRON Evolv Wireless BP Monitor a special kit is far much more than the mere fact that it is a product of a popular brand. Indeed, OMRON is one of the most trusted brands of blood pressure monitors. However, that is not the only thing that makes this particular model stand out.

Firstly, OMRON Evolv Wireless BP Monitor uses Advanced Accuracy, which is an exclusive heart health algorithm that enables the device to measure more data points and eliminate interference from body movement. The readings you get from this unit are precise and medically accurate.

Secondly, the one-piece design of OMRON Evolv Wireless BP Monitor includes pre-formed cuffs that can comfortably accommodate standard or large upper arm circumference size of between 9” and 17”. The pre-formed cuffs provide an easy blood pressure measuring process. For instance, to wear the cuffs, all you need to do is slide them in and then tighten them for a comfortable fit. Once you press the START button, the device will take accurate measurements of your diastolic and systolic pressures, the pulse rate, as well as, detect irregular heartbeat.

Thirdly, OMRON Evolv Wireless BP Monitor provides the OMRON Connect app that is compatible with both Android and iOS. The device can connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth, and it will sync the results of your blood pressure test to the OMRON Connect app installed on your phone. The app allows you to track the health of your heart and also provides for secure sharing options, enabling you to email your blood pressure data to your doctor.

This particular one-piece compact blood pressure monitor is among the best options you should consider buying in 2019. If you are obese, pregnant with blood pressure complications, or you have been diagnosed with Hypertension, you need a device that can provide you with precise and clinically accurate readings. OMRON Evolv Wireless BP Monitor is that device that should top your “the best one-piece compact blood pressure monitors to buy in 2019” list.

OMRON Evolv Wireless BP Monitor Best Features:

  • Compatible with both Android & iOS
  • Provide the most accurate blood pressure readings
  • Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Pre-formed upper arm cuffs
  • Portable device

#3 Best Multi-User One-Piece BP Monitor: QardioArm Smart BP Monitor

If you have a large family, it would be wise to acquire a blood pressure monitor that has multi-user functionality. With a device that supports multi-users, you will cut the cost of managing your blood pressure for your whole family, considering that you will use only one unit for all family members instead of buying a unit for each member. If this sparks your interest, then the QardioArm Smart BP Monitor would be a great unit to check out.

What makes QardioArm Smart BP Monitor a good unit to buy is that it supports up to 8 users. With this unit, you can connect up to 8 smartphones. What this means is that, if you have a large family of up to 8 people, anyone with a smartphone will be able to monitor the health of their heart using this one unit. If you buy the QardioArm Smart BP Monitor, you will not need any additional device to check the blood pressure for all members of your family.

The device enables you to keep track of your blood pressure efficiently through the Qardio app that runs on the Android and iOS platforms. QardioArm Smart BP Monitor connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth. Once you put on the cuffs that can comfortably fit upper arms of circumference size of between 8.7 and 14.6 inches, it will read your diastolic and systolic pressures, as well as, detect any instances of irregular heartbeat. The results are extremely accurate since the blood pressure monitor is FSA approved.

QardioArm Smart BP Monitor is a good blood pressure monitor to have in the home, especially if you have a large family.

QardioArm Smart BP Monitor Best Features:

  • Supports multi-user
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • FSA Cleared

#4 Best One-Piece BP Monitor with Results on Device: Withings Wi-Fi Smart BP Monitor

Considering that the one-piece design works with smartphones, does it mean that you cannot take your BP measurements when you don’t have your smartphone with you? Well, with most models that project results on your smartphone, it would be difficult to check your BP if you don’t have your smartphone.

However, with Withings Wi-Fi Smart BP Monitor, you won’t need your smartphone to get results of your BP reading. Forget about the large display screens found in traditional BP models, Withings Wi-Fi Smart BP Monitor has a sleek LCD that is compact and gives you a readout of your diastolic and systolic pressures, as well as, your heart rate. What is more, the result is color-coded so you can easily understand and interpret the readings to know the status of your heart’s health anytime you use the device to check your blood pressure.

The results can also be accessed on your smartphone, where you can manage them efficiently. In fact, your blood pressure records are securely stored on the Health Mate app which also provides you with the option of sharing the data with close friends and your doctor. The device can connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

The FDA cleared Withings Wi-Fi Smart BP Monitor comes packed with standard upper arm cuffs of circumference size 9 – 17 inches, and it is so easy to use and operate. It takes measurements quickly and gives you results with clinically approved accuracy.

With this device, you will no longer have to worry about carrying your smartphone with you every time you need to take blood pressure measurements. Think of the convenience of being able to keep track of your blood pressure using the one-piece compact BP monitor but without necessarily requiring your smartphone. To enjoy this convenience, buy the Withings Wi-Fi Smart BP Monitor. It is the best one-piece compact design BP monitor that gives you results on the device.

Withings Wi-Fi Smart BP Monitor Best Features:

  • Sleek LCD that gives results on the device
  • Android/iOS compatibility
  • FDA Cleared
  • Color-coded results

#5 Best One-Piece BP Monitor with Color-Coded Feedback: Withings Bluetooth BP Monitor

Imagine being able to take your blood pressure measurement and receiving instant color-coded feedback showing you the status of your heart’s health…Wouldn’t it be nice being able to instantly know if your blood pressure is normal or is above/below the normal range with just a press of a button? Well, you can stop imagining and go buy the Withings Bluetooth BP Monitor to enjoy fast and easy blood pressure monitoring at home.

Not only does Withings Bluetooth BP Monitor deliver color-coded results and advice based on internationally-recognized standards, but it also lets you have your blood pressure reading history on hand. It uses the Health Mate app that runs on both Android and iOS platforms, to manage your BP data. Therefore, with this unit, you will be able to track your blood pressure over time, and this will give you a better understanding of your heart’s health.

Withings Bluetooth BP Monitor is FSA cleared, so you are guaranteed of receiving highly accurate results each and every time you use it to measure your blood pressure. The cuff fits arm circumference from 9 to 17 inches.

Have we mentioned that the results will sync to your smartphone automatically? The device connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth, granting you a fast and efficient way to keep track of your heart’s health. Indeed, you will have an easy time managing your blood pressure with this device, especially if you fancy quick and instant feedback.

If you are looking for that one-piece compact BP monitor that will give you instant color-coded feedback, then consider buying the Withings Bluetooth BP Monitor. It will be a good investment, although you have the option to go for a newer version (Withings Wi-Fi Smart BP Monitor) that has Wi-Fi connectivity.

Withings Bluetooth BP Monitor Best Features:

  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Android and iOS compatibility
  • Trusted Brand
  • FSA Cleared
  • Clinically approved accurate results
  • Easy to use

#6 Best One-Piece BP Monitor with Comprehensive Reading: MobileHealth Wireless BP Monitor

For you to have a crystal clear picture of the condition of your heart’s health, you need a blood pressure monitor that checks for more than just the usual data points. Most blood pressure monitors check for the usual diastolic and systolic pressures and heart rate. However, for you to know how your heart is faring, you will want a device that effectively detects an irregular heartbeat, atrial fibrillation, and much more. The best one-piece blood pressure monitor with comprehensive blood pressure reading is the MobileHealth Wireless BP Monitor.

This device effectively screens for 5 major cardiovascular profiles, including Fast Heart Beat, Slow Heart Beat, Irregular Heart Beat, Atrial Fibrillation, and Cardiovascular Evaluation. These advanced measurements will give you a clear picture of the status of your heart’s health than those devices that limit their measurements to just the usual heart rate and systolic and diastolic pressures.

Considering how MobileHealth Wireless BP Monitor provides comprehensive blood pressure reading, you may be mistaken to think that it has limited memory storage. On the contrary, the device can record an unlimited number of readings and goes as far as capturing the time and date so you can efficiently keep track of past measurement history.

And when it comes to the accuracy of the readings gotten from MobileHealth Wireless BP Monitor, you can be sure that the measurements are accurate and clinically approved. Did we mention that the device is FDA approved? That should help cancel any doubts you may have regarding the accuracy of this device in measuring your blood pressure. Furthermore, with MobileHealth Wireless BP Monitor, you can see your average for the most recent 7, 14, or 30 days, or even opt to view the records as a chart for better analysis. The results are also color-coded so you can quickly know if your reading is above, below, or within the normal acceptable range.

And just like virtually all one-piece compact blood pressure monitors, the MobileHealth Wireless BP Monitor can connect to your mobile phone via Bluetooth. It comes packed with the MbH BP app that provides for easy and more efficient management of your blood pressure data. With the app, you can also share the blood pressure records with your closest family members or your doctor. MbH BP app is compatible with both Android and iOS.

MobileHealth Wireless BP Monitor has all the features you would want in a blood pressure home monitor. In addition, it has a compact design, making it extremely portable. You can take readings of your blood pressure anywhere and anytime you want. If this is something you need, don’t even think twice to purchase this amazing health device. You will not be disappointed.

MobileHealth Wireless BP Monitor Best Features:

  • Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Comprehensive reading
  • FDA approved
  • Memory storage for an unlimited number of readings
  • Compatible with both Android and iOS

Final Advice

One-piece compact blood pressure monitors for home use provide an enjoyable and easy BP reading process. Our selection contains the best products available in the 2019 market, and it should help you with your purchasing decision. Whichever product from the list that sparks your interest, buy it knowing that you will be able to keep track of your heart’s health at home more efficiently and conveniently.

 

Best Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor For Android: Bluetooth Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor Reviews

The Best Wireless Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors to Buy in 2019

Take charge of your blood pressure by purchasing a wireless wrist blood pressure monitor for home use. Recent statistics from America Heart Association indicates that about half of Americans have Hypertension or High Blood Pressure. To make matters worse, many are unaware of their hypertensive state.

Because most people don’t have any symptoms associated with high blood pressure, the only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to have your blood pressure checked. Don’t wait for symptoms, it might be too late.

Your healthcare provider can check your blood pressure. Or if you don’t have health insurance or hate going to the doctor the next best option will be to purchase a blood pressure monitor.

If it is not treated, high blood pressure can be dangerous. It is the number one cause of cardiovascular-related deaths in America.

If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome then you are risk for complications of uncontrolled high blood pressure. Also, pregnant women who have high blood pressure need to monitor their blood pressure routinely.

And if you are a health-conscious person, you understand why checking blood pressure regularly is essential to your overall health and wellness. Right?

It is not complicated to check your blood pressure. Thanks to advances made in consumer healthcare technology it is as simple as wrapping the cuff around your arm or wrist and pushing the right button. To make it really simple, most devices only have one button.  Furthermore, you won’t need a stethoscope.

Although your healthcare provider might use a stethoscope and sphygmomanometer to check your blood pressure, you won’t have to learn that technique.

All you need to check your blood pressure at home is the right tool such as a smart, automatic wireless wrist blood pressure monitor. There are arm options available that are even better than wrist. But if you find it challenging to use these models then checking with a wrist model beats not checking at all.

Top 8 Wireless Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors for Android and Iphone

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#1 Best Wireless Wrist BP Monitor with Heart Zone Guidance: Omron Healthcare Gold BP Monitor

To take the most accurate blood pressure readings using wrist BP monitors, your wrist must be at your heart level. That is why we recommend the Omron Healthcare Gold BP Monitor that has an effective heart zone guidance feature that automatically activates inflation of the cuffs once your wrist is at your heart level.

Omron Healthcare Gold BP Monitor has one of the most comfortable adjustable blood pressure cuffs in the market. It comfortably fits adult wrist size of between 5.3” to 8.5” in circumference, and if you wrap the cuffs loosely, the smart gadget will alert you.

With 100 memory storage, the Omron Healthcare Gold BP Monitor can store and track BP readings of up to 2 users. The accuracy of this gadget cannot be questioned, especially since it applies the TrueRead Advanced Averaging Technology to give you the average reading of the last 3 readings recorded within the last 10 minutes. And it also checks for irregular heart rhythm and will alert you in case irregular heartbeat is detected.

You can easily manage the data through its custom mobile application that is available on both Android and iOS. Once you pair your smartphone with the device via Bluetooth, you can upload your BP readings and share it with your doctor or close family members.

Moreover, Omron Healthcare Gold BP Monitor is clinically approved and validated, so you can be sure that checking your blood pressure with this at-home kit will give you an accurate picture of your heart’s health every time.

Omron Healthcare Gold BP Monitor also has a large display screen making it easy for you to read and interpret the readings.

Considering that it has virtually all the features needed in an at-home BP monitor, the Omron Healthcare Gold BP Monitor is our number one pick. We recommend it as a must-have for every home.

Omron Healthcare Gold BP Monitor Best Features:

  • Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Android/iOS compatibility
  • Heart Zone Guidance automatic system
  • TrueRead Advanced Averaging Technology
  • Large Display Screen
  • 2-user mode
  • Renowned brand

#2 Best Wireless Wrist BP Monitor with Portable Design: MOCACuff Bluetooth BP Monitor

A good blood pressure monitor for home use should enable you to track your heart’s condition from anywhere and at any time, even while on the go. This means that the gadget must be compact enough and portable.

MOCACuff Bluetooth BP Monitor is a viable option since its sleek design makes it portable and ideal for health-conscious travelers to keep tabs on the health of their hearts. It is lightweight, compact size, and comes with an elegant protector/carrying case, enabling you to bring it everywhere you go so you can measure your blood pressure anywhere and anytime you want.

This automatic wrist blood pressure monitor is easy to use. Once you wear the cuffs around your wrists and press the start button, it will take measurements of your diastolic and systolic pressures, as well as, your pulse rate. Its cuffs have an adjustable size allowing for comfortable wear and accurate blood pressure reading.

MOCACuff Bluetooth BP Monitor is a clinically approved at-home blood pressure monitor, and it features a large display screen that allows for easy reading and interpretation of results. The clinically accurate results are color-coded, so you can easily know where your heart stands.

In addition, you can connect it to your smartphone via Bluetooth using the MOCACuff app that runs on both Android and iOS platforms. With the MOCACuff app, you can easily manage and track your blood pressure records with a single tap of a button.

MOCACuff Bluetooth BP Monitor has 99 memory storage and it allows unlimited multi-user. However, the MOCACuff app does not store different records for different users as it does not differentiate between different users. However, users can still send & store their blood pressure measurements to their MOCACARE app on their phone.

MOCACuff Bluetooth BP Monitor Best Features:

  • Portable design
  • Large display screen with the color-coded ability
  • Clinically approved
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Android/iOS compatibility
  • Easy to use

#3 Best Wireless Wrist BP Monitor with Voice Broadcast: Koogeek Bluetooth Wrist BP Monitor

Reading and interpreting blood pressure results on home testing kits can be challenging for most people. Blood pressure monitors measure systolic and diastolic pressures, as well as, the pulse rate, and these measurements can be difficult to read and understand when displayed on the large screen of the BP home kit.

For those who cannot read the results of the blood pressure reading, you need to check out the Koogeek Bluetooth Wrist BP Monitor that features a voice broadcast that lets you hear the measurement results and let you know each data clearly. It is perfect for the elderly, those who cannot read well, and those who want convenient reading experience.

The automatic Koogeek Bluetooth Wrist BP Monitor is extremely easy to use. Once you wear the cuffs around your wrist, you only have to press the start button and the device will inflate automatically to take accurate blood pressure measurements. If you can’t read the results as posted on the large display screen, you can use the voice speaker to hear the measurement results.

The multi-user home kit is clinically approved and can store 99 sets of measurement data, and this can be managed easily through the custom app that connects your smartphone with the BP monitor through Bluetooth. In addition, it has an alarm clock reminder function that reminds you to measure your blood pressure.

Koogeek Bluetooth Wrist BP Monitor Best Features:

  • Voice Broadcast
  • Large Display Screen
  • Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Android/iOS compatibility
  • Alarm clock reminder
  • Clinically approved

#4 Best Wireless Wrist BP Monitor with Colored Risk Indicator: Beurer Bluetooth Smart BP Monitor

If you want that home kit that will make result interpretation an easy thing, then you need to check out the Beurer Bluetooth Smart BP Monitor. It features a colored risk indicator that uses the WHO metrics to tell you the current condition of your heart. This unit provides an easy interpretation of your blood pressure measurements.

With a wrist cuff circumference of 5.5” to 7.7”, this unit provides the perfect fit for accurate blood pressure reading. And it does not stop with the systolic and diastolic pressures; it measures your heart pulse as well. It also detects irregular heartbeats, and if any instance of heart rhythm disturbance is detected, it will alert you accordingly.

Beurer Bluetooth Smart BP Monitor is clinically approved and it always provides accurate readings every time. The accurate results are displayed on its large LCD, which is easy to read and interpret. What is more, it can store 120 reading records; 60 memory storage each when used in 2-user mode. However, it can be used by unlimited users provided they store their records on their own individual phones.

Beurer Bluetooth Smart BP Monitor has a custom app that lets you manage your blood pressure data easily. With the app, you can upload, store, and even share the data with your doctor or close family members. It connects with your smartphone through Bluetooth. You can get a clear picture of your heart’s health using the app because it shows how your readings look over time.

Beurer Bluetooth Smart BP Monitor Best Features:

  • Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Colored risk indicator
  • Large LCD display
  • Clinically approved
  • Android/iOS compatibility
  • Easy to use

Wireless Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors FAQs

The following are some of the commonly asked questions about wireless wrist blood pressure monitors designed for home use. We’ve put our expertise to work for you by providing you with authoritative answers to some of the common questions people have about wrist blood pressure monitors.

What is a Wireless Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor?

A wrist BP monitor is wrapped around on your wrist to take accurate readings of your blood pressure levels. It measures you blood pressure by way of your radial artery. It is wireless and therefore function via Bluetooth technology. With the associated app , you can control the device from your phone., save track, trend and share you measurement with your physician electronically.

Are Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors for Home Use the Best to Buy?

There are many types of blood pressure monitors to buy for home use, and they are all effective in their own respective ways.

However, if you want the most easiest and convenient  blood pressure checking process, then you need to buy the wireless wrist blood pressure monitors.

These models are easy to use, comfortable to wear and they provide a reliable alternative for those who have excessively large upper arms, hence cannot use the Upper Arm blood pressure monitors.

Wireless Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor Buying Guide

There are many models available in the market, so don’t be surprised to find it challenging to pick the best one to buy.

We have made it our business to show you the best wireless wrist blood pressure monitors that will serve you well and give you the best experience at home.

We conducted extensive research to identify the best models currently available on the market. You can be sure that our top wireless wrist blood pressure monitors list contains the best of the best of the 2019 market has to offer.

But before we dive into it, let us first look at the crucial factors to consider when shopping for a quality wireless wrist blood pressure monitor, shall we?

Factors to Consider when Buying Wireless Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors

1. Is it clinically approved and validated?

You need to check if the blood pressure home testing kit is clinically validated. A blood pressure monitor that is clinically validated will always provide results you can trust since they have been tested for their accuracy .

2. Is it automatic or manual?

There are those kits that require you to pump the cuffs manually. Keep in mind that for you to use the manually operated blood pressure monitor, you must be appropriately trained. However, the automatic models inflate at the press of a button and anyone can use it. You don’t need any training to use automatic blood pressure monitors.

3. Ease of use

Some models are complicated to use while others provide for one-touch operation. The latter are the best ones to buy. Focus only on those models that are easy to set up and use. Checking your blood pressure should not be a complex process, so go for those kits that will take your readings at the press of a button. If you cannot use it, then you would have wasted your money.

4. Price of the blood pressure monitor

Budget is an important factor to consider. Many models of BP checking home kits are affordable, but since ‘affordability’ is relative, it would be wise to stick to your budget. The price of the kit should be reasonable; not too expensive and also not too cheap. Models that cost more money are not necessarily better.

5. Memory Storage of the kit

For you to effectively keep tabs on your heart’s health, you need to generate data of your blood pressure readings. Therefore, you need a wrist monitor with a good memory. Some gadgets store up to the last 60 readings, while others can store up to the previous 200 readings. If you have a large family, you should go for a unit that has ample memory storage.

6. Number of Users

Many home blood pressure monitors allow for multi-users, although most of them are limited to only a maximum of two users. Others have unlimited users and you can add as many family members as you like. This factor is essential to consider, especially if you have a large family. For a big family, you will need to buy blood pressure monitors that have unlimited multiple users to save on cost.

7. Display screen size

Blood pressure monitors read the systolic and diastolic pressures, as well as pulse rate. The results need to be displayed on a large screen to make it easy for you to read and interpret them. Therefore, it is essential that the wrist blood pressure monitor has a large-sized display and even better if the screen is backlit to allow you to use it even in the dark.

8. Comfort

Checking your blood pressure levels should be a comfortable experience; therefore, the blood pressure monitors must be comfortable and easy to use. Also, they need to be light enough so you can comfortably carry it whenever you travel. Portable blood pressure monitors will allow you to keep tabs of your heart’s health even when you’re traveling. You should be able to measure your blood pressure comfortably anywhere, be it in your car, office, or at home. Therefore, check for those models that come with storage and travel cases.

9. Features of the blood pressure monitor

Different models have different functions. While some offer the basic service of checking your blood pressure level, others go further and detect irregular heartbeats, pulse rate, and movement. Therefore, always ensure that the model you buy has the features you’re looking for. Only you will know what right for you.

10. Smartphone connectivity

When measuring your blood pressure, you will want to share the results with your doctor or close family members. Wireless wrist blood pressure monitors have a special Android/iOS app that allows you to easily upload, share, and manage your blood pressure data on your smartphone. The best models will enable you to wirelessly pair your smartphone with the blood pressure gadget.

If you consider these factors, you will make the right purchasing decision when shopping for wireless wrist blood pressure monitors.

Final Advice

Having the right healthcare kit for measuring your blood pressure at home can significantly help you to manage and track the health of your heart, especially if you are at risk of Hypertension. With our comprehensive buying guide, you will be able to select the best choice to cater for you needs.

If you are searching for the best kit to buy for checking your blood pressure regularly, then we recommend you buy the Omron Healthcare Gold BP Monitor. This amazing unit has virtually all the features needed in an at-home BP monitor. It is the right investment to make and it’s a must-have for every health-conscious home.

 

How to Find a Virtual Doctor? Try These 4 Ways

How to Find a Virtual Physician

Telemedicine is defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as “the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients by means of telecommunication technology.” Wherever a patient (or a healthcare professional taking care of that patient) is communicating with a healthcare professional, who is not at the same physical location, to find out what is wrong and to get treatment, this is telemedicine.

Telemedicine goes by many name such as virtual MD, On Line Doctor and others. Regardless of the search term use to find a doctor on line, you should do your research.

How do you find a good physician virtual doctor? This can be much the same as the process of finding any physician, but because you are not meeting in person, some of the questions to ask are a bit different.

Two Kinds of Telemedicine

There are two general kinds of telemedicine. The first refers to remote communication with your regular physician. This communication could take place via telephone, video call, text message, or any other form of telecommunication. This kind of telemedicine has been around ever since telephones—or maybe since there was snail mail—and is simply an extension of the relationship you already have with your doctor.

The second kind is an online-only telehealth companies, and refers to a kind of web-based telemedicine where you communicate with a doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner by video, text messaging, email, or through an app. Consider them hosting platforms or virtual environment for your visit with the doctor.

4 Ways to Find an  Online Doctor

Ask For Referrals

With the convenience of online search engines, we sometimes forget the importance of word of mouth and personal recommendations. But asking friends and acquaintances is still a good place to begin. Find out what they use and why, what they like and what they don’t. This will give you a good foundation for when you begin looking at the services that are available.

Check Your Insurance Benefits Plan

Unless you are in the small percentage of the population that can afford healthcare out-of-pocket, insurance coverage is an important consideration. In fact, an increasing number of insurance providers are contracting with telemedicine providers for preventative and primary care services for their clients. One plus of using telemedicine that is provided through your insurance is that the insurer is likely to have vetted the provider to ensure legitimacy and value. And of course, when you go through your insurer’s contracted service, you have a better assurance that the services will be covered by insurance.

 Ask Your Provider

Either directly through your insurance or through your local health system’s network, you may find that you already have an account with a telehealth provider. Call your provider’s office or check their website to find out if they offer remote or video visits. If this is the case, you can still use the suggestions below to help you determine when to use telehealth and when to go to a physical location.

Check Reviews

But as you do, don’t get caught up in whether they are five-star reviews. While the overall rating does matter, you also want to read the reviews to find out why the reviewer liked or didn’t like the service. Read between the lines to see if this is the type of service you are looking for. For example, you may find a review with only one or two stars, but if you read the review you may discover that the reviewer is upset because they got a referral for specialized care. However, you want to get referrals when you need them, so that review should make you think more, not less, of that provider.

Consider the things that are important to you, such as hours of availability, whether they have access to the rest of your health records, if you prefer video, phone call, or text messaging, and so forth. Read the reviews with these things in mind.

Don’t Replace Your Regular Doctor

Unless your virtual doctor is your primary doctor, don’t ditch you primary doctor.

Telehealth is best for minor issues, such as urinary tract infections or viruses. Mental health services can often be quite effective via telehealth. And in rural areas, telehealth can be the only accessible means of “visiting” a physician.

However, telehealth should not replace actual physical visits to your physician. Many parts of an exam cannot be done by video, including lungs, heart sounds and abdominal exams. Even looking at a sore throat by video can be nearly impossible.

In an emergency, don’t use telehealth—call emergency services or go to an emergency department. If you have signs of a stroke or heart attack, call 9-1-1 or your local equivalent and get immediate help. If you have an injury such as a fall, car accident or any kind of trauma then a visit to the emergency room is necessary.

As a general rule of thumb, most things that would be seen in an urgent care can be taken care of by telehealth, except for injuries that need to be cleaned and stitched, or other things that need hands-on care.

The Right Fit: 7 Factors That Affects Accurate Blood Pressure Measurement

Young man measuring blood pressure at home

Factors that impact the accuracy of blood pressure readings

The only way to know if you have high blood pressure (BP)  is to have your blood pressure checked. Even if you have your own blood pressure monitor and your BP readings are high,  your healthcare provider will be the one to confirm that you are hypertensive.  They make this diagnosis based on your BP measurement on more than one visit.

However, if you end up in the Emergency Room with an extremely high blood pressure, you most likely will be told that you had high blood that you were not aware of.

Unfortunately, some individuals find about their high blood pressure during an emergency situation such as a stroke.

Uncontrolled high BP problems can lead to serious health complications such as heart attack, kidney disease, stroke, or even death and disability. If you’ve experienced (or been diagnosed with) BP spikes or drops, it should be beneficial to have your BP regularly monitored. Lifestyle changes are also essential to manage blood pressure disorders.

What do the figures in a blood pressure reading mean?

Your BP is typically shown as two numbers displayed one over the other. The one on top is your systolic blood pressure or SBP, which is the measurement of the pressure in the blood vessels (the arteries) when the heart muscle contracts.

The bottom figure is the diastolic blood pressure which is a measure of the pressure in the blood vessels (arteries) when the heart muscle relaxes, refilling with blood.

When considered separately, a higher SBP and DBP are linked with an increased risk for heart-related medical problems.

If your BP result shows 120 for systolic BP and 80 for diastolic BP, it would be read as “120 over 80” or written as “120/80 mm Hg.”

Evidence has shown that the precise measurement of BP is crucial to ascertain the risk or guide management for high blood pressure and related heart issues. In support of this obtaining the correct measurement, the American Heart Association (AHA) has formulated recommendations for accurate BP measurements.

If you are checking your own  blood pressure, it is essential to know the common factors that cause your reading to be not so accurate.  An inaccurate reading can lead to an inaccurate treatment.

  1. The location of measurement

The standard location for BP measurement is the upper arm. A healthcare provider or someone trained to take your reading at home can use a stethoscope and place it at the elbow crease. This is the location of a major blood vessel of the upper arm, called the brachial artery.

In general, the systolic BP (blood pressure when the heart beats) increases when a reading is taken from blood vessels that are farther from the center of the body. Examples are BP readings taken using the wrist or fingers.

On the other hand, diastolic BP generally decreases when taken from the wrist or finger, in comparison with an upper arm reading.

Accurate measurements at the wrist require that the wrist be kept at the level of the heart – this avoids the effects of hydrostatic pressure (pressure of fluids inside the body).

Finger monitors may have lost their popularity due to inconsistent and inaccurate BP readings.

Regardless of where you take your blood pressure, make notes and also share the location of the cuff during measurement with your healthcare provider.

  1. Body position

A BP reading taken while sitting, lying, and standing will yield different results.

Generally, taking a BP measurement while an individual is in a sitting position is preferred.

Regardless of whether the BP reading is taken in a sitting or lying position, the blood pressure cuff should be at the level of the patient’s heart

When the BP is taken while lying down (with the face upward), the arm should be supported with a pillow. If not, the BP reading may show higher results than when a reading is taken in an upright position.

The back should be supported during BP taking. If the person is made to sit in an examination table with no back support, the SBP may be increased by 5-15, and the DBP elevated by roughly 6 mm Hg according to studies.

It is not advised to be in a cross-legged position as well. Crossing the legs during BP determination elevates the SBP by approximately 5-8 mm Hg and the DBP by 3-5mm Hg.

  1. Arm position

Changes in the position of the arms while taking a reading can significantly cause differences in results. For instance, when the upper arm is hanging down while in a sitting position (i.e., the upper arm is below the heart level) when measuring BP, the readings will be falsely high.

Consequently, if the arm is placed above the heart level, the reading will be too low.

In general, research evidence shows that a 2 mm Hg difference is seen with every inch deviation that the arm is placed below or above the heart level.

  1. Cuff size

Another typical error during BP taking is “miscuffing.” This happens when the size of the cuff (the inflatable part of a BP equipment that’s typically made of rubber) is too large or small relative to an individual’s arm circumference.

According to the Hypertension Clinical Practice Guidelines, using a BP cuff that is too large results in a falsely low BP. On the other hand, using a cuff that’s too small results in a falsely high BP reading.

The ideal cuff should have a length that is 80%, and a width that is at least 40% of the arm circumference of the user or patient. Hence, the length-to-width ratio should be at 2:1.

According to the AHA, the recommended cuff size when taking BP measurements are as follows:

  • Small adult cuff size (12×22 cm)- for individuals with an arm circumference of 22-26 cm
  • Adult cuff size (16×30 cm)- for individuals with an arm circumference of 27-34 cm
  • Large adult cuff size (16×36 cm)- for individuals with an arm circumference of 35-44 cm
  • Adult thigh cuff size (16×42 cm)- for individuals with an arm circumference of 45-52 cm
  1. Patient/user and related factors

Recent food consumption- after taking a meal, your body directs extra blood to the stomach and small intestines. Blood vessels distant from your digestive tract can narrow, making your heart beat faster and harder. This can result in postprandial hypotension(low blood pressure after meals). It is best to take a BP reading in the morning before eating. If you must eat first, wait for about 30 minutes before taking a measurement.

Exercise or movement during BP measurement– take your blood pressure before an activity, or you might get a high result. Also, refrain from moving about during BP measurement to obtain accurate results.

Temperature– if you are cold, you might get a falsely higher reading than expected. Low temperatures cause the blood vessels to narrow, which elevates BP because more pressure is needed to force blood through narrowed blood vessels.

 

Full bladder– A full bladder will give you a high reading. Empty your bladder before taking a measurement.

 

Tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine– It is best not to consume these before taking a reading. But if you have taken these, wait for at least 30 minutes before having your BP taken.

 

Clothing– Don’t put the cuff over clothing. Place it over bare skin. It will significantly affect your BP if roll-up your sleeve to the point that it gets tight on your upper arm. Take your arm out of the sleeve if possible, making sure it does not get tight; or take off your shirt.

 

Stress- Avoid stressful thoughts, and be in a comfortable position for at least 5 minutes before taking a measurement. Stress can alter your blood pressure.

  1. Device-related factors

Use of a non-calibrated device- if your equipment has not been correctly calibrated, it may not give you accurate results. Ensure a certificate is attached to your device, or have it calibrated with your physician.

Use of a non-validated device- similarly, if the accuracy of the equipment has not been validated, you may become over or under-diagnosed with a condition.

  1. Procedure-related factors

The user or patient talks during the procedure- 25-40% of individuals who initiated speech or talked during the measurement of BP lead to elevated readings according to several studies.

The use of inaccurate measurement techniques such as miscuffing

Best Practice For Accurate BP Measurement

  1. The patient or individual should be relaxed, sitting on a chair with the feet kept flat on the floor and the back supported. He or she should be seated for 3-5 minutes without talking or moving about before measuring BP.

 

  1. The individual should avoid smoking, exercise, or caffeine intake for at least 30 minutes before taking a BP reading.

 

  1. Voiding or emptying the bladder should be done before BP taking.

 

  1. Neither the patient nor the one taking the measurement should talk during the rest period, and especially while measuring the BP.

 

  1. Clothing that is covering the upper arm where the cuff is placed should be removed.

 

  1. It is recommended to use an upper arm BP device that has been validated and also calibrated periodically.

 

  1. The patient or user’s arm should be supported (e.g., resting on a table). The individual should not be holding his/her arm since isometric exercises (the contraction of a muscle without visible movement) can affect BP results.

 

  1. You need to position the middle of the cuff (typically marked on the BP cuff by the manufacturer) over the artery that pulsates on the patient’s bare upper arm. During measurement, the cuff should be at the level of the heart (the midpoint of the sternum).

 

  1. The correct cuff size should be used, such that it encircles 75 to 100% of the upper arm. Moreover, the cuff should be pulled taut, with proper tightness for both the top and bottom edges of the cuff, encircling the individual’s upper arm.

 

10.Take your BP in both arms, and record the arm that gives the higher result for subsequent BP readings.

 

  1. If you need to repeat measurements, give at least 1-2 minute intervals in between measurements.

 

  1. For BP readings using a stethoscope, the cuff should be inflated 20-30 mm Hg above the SBP, which has been estimated through the palpation method.

 

  1. The trained person taking your BP should deflate the cuff (release its pressure) slowly at about 2 mm Hg/secondwhile listening to the tapping–called the Korotkoff sounds.
  2. Commonly, the SBP and DBP are recorded at the nearest even number.

 

  1. If you take medications to manage your BP, note the time that the most recent medication was taken before the measurement.

 

  1. For home-use devices, upper arm cuff models, which work via oscillometric means, and have passed clinical validations are preferred.
  2. Also, it is advised for home users to use a device that automatically stores all readings, or can send readings electronically to the healthcare provider.

Final Note

Regular monitoring of your BP can assist the doctor in determining issues and  risks for other health problems. Coupled with lifestyle changes, the right diet, exercise, and regular consultation, you will be able to achieve optimal health and wellness and avoid medical conditions that are the result of high blood pressure.

 

References

Muntner et al. (2019). Measurement of Blood Pressure in Humans: A Scientific Statement from the​​American Heart Association. Retrieved fromhttps://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/HYP.0000000000000087

Pickering et al. (2005). Recommendations for blood pressure measurement in humans and experimental​​ animals: part 1: blood pressure measurement in humans: a statement for professionals from​​ the Subcommittee of Professional and Public Education of the American Heart Association​​ Council on High Blood Pressure Research. Retrieved from  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15699287