Whether The Mechanical Sphygmomanometer Is Accurate

Knowing how to use a sphygmomanometer to properly check blood pressure is important.

The pandemic and the forced lockdown meant that sales of sphygmomanometers for home use soured during 2020. I have reviewed some of the best for clinical and home use here.

The bottom line is, more people are using sphygmomanometers to test their own blood pressure and more questions are arising on exactly how to use them.

So that’s what we look into today. I’ll take it step by step, however.

First, we’ll look at what a Sphygmomanometer is, how it works, and how to use it. Most important of all, we’ll cover what the readings actually mean.

1. How to choose an electronic sphygmomanometer correctly

You can only compare it after you buy it. Find a clinic and measure blood pressure three times in total. For the first time with a mercury sphygmomanometer, take a rest for 3 to 5 minutes. Use the purchased electronic sphygmomanometer to measure the second time. Rest for 3 to 5 minutes and take a third time with a mercury sphygmomanometer. Take the average of the first and third time and compare it with the second time. If the difference is ≤5mmHg, it is normal.

There are two types of electronic sphygmomanometers, wrist-type electronic sphygmomanometers and arm-type electronic sphygmomanometers. It doesn't matter which person is healthy, but for people with blood circulation disorders, an arm-type electronic sphygmomanometer is more suitable. Before payment, you can measure it on the spot to see if it is close to your usual blood pressure. So what if you don't know your usual blood pressure?

Also check the appearance and display screen, whether it is damaged, whether it is missing characters, etc.