Sphygmomanometer, or tonometer - an apparatus for quick and timely determination of blood pressure in medical institutions and at home.
The ease of use and accessibility of the device allows elderly people suffering from heart diseases and those belonging to risk categories, athletes who are in shape and leading a healthy and active lifestyle, monitor the level of pressure and, if necessary, seek professional help in a timely manner, take the necessary medications or adjust physical load.
According to the type of measurement of indicators, three types of tonometers are distinguished. The mercury apparatus shows the pressure level along the height of the mercury column. In a mechanical apparatus, the main element is a manometer, the arrow of which reflects the value of the upper and lower boundaries. Automatic tonometers are the most widespread. Patient reviews allow us to talk about the convenience of using models with a display.
Let's consider electronic tonometers in more detail. Sphygmomanometers of a new generation are portable, convenient for use by one person, while their operation there is no possibility of subjective perception of Korotkov tones, as when using a phonendoscope. The principle of measuring pressure is based on the oscillometric method - the analysis of a pulse wave and the subsequent determination of systolic and diastolic pressure by algorithms.
According to the type of placement of the device on the body, traditional - shoulder automatic tonometers are distinguished. Reviews of them confirm the quality of measurements and the presence of minimal errors in comparison with mechanical devices. The device is universal, but due to its excellent technical indicators it is recommended to monitor the level of pressure both for people of the general health group and those who need regular and accurate measurement of indicators.
The next type is automatic blood pressure monitors. Customer reviews of the owners of this category of medical equipment describe the need for strict adherence to the instructions. The use of the wrist apparatus is recommended for young people under the age of 35 who are actively involved in sports. It is also convenient to take it on the road, but for consumers suffering from cardiovascular diseases, the developers recommend paying attention to other models.
Carpal tonometers are ergonomic, quite accurate when following the manufacturer's recommendations. Medical stores and pharmacies provide a wide selection of diverse models. Automatic tonometers are used in modern medical centers: reviews of visitors, as well as customers using devices at home, indicate their popularity. Most companies limit the age of users (to 40 years), but there are universal meters.
A guarantee of the exact result of the pressure level measurement procedure is compliance with certain requirements. It is forbidden to smoke, drink coffee and other energy drinks, including tea, half an hour before the measurement. It is necessary to relax, spend about 7 minutes in a sitting position or lying down. During the procedure, the legs should be straight or bent at the knees, but not crossed.
It is not recommended to purchase used tonometers automatic. Doctor’s reviews, frequency, necessity and accuracy of indicators are the criteria that will help determine the type of device and make the right choice.
A number of models of meters can be connected with a computer, laptop, iPod, iPad and iPhone for maintaining a data register and their further analysis.