by Types of Blood Pressure Monitoring Devices
Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors
Wrist blood pressure monitors are compact devices worn on the wrist like a watch. They work by inflating a cuff around the wrist to take blood pressure readings. Some advanced models also measure other vital signs like heart rate. Wrist monitors are very convenient to use as they don’t require squeezing the arm like traditional upper arm cuffs. However, their readings may not be as accurate as upper arm devices. Some popular wrist blood pressure monitors include Omron HeartGuide, QardioArm, and iHealth Wake.
Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitors
Upper arm blood pressure monitors are the most common type used for clinical accuracy. They work by wrapping an inflatable cuff around the upper arm. As the cuff inflates and then slowly deflates, the device takes readings of the systolic and diastolic pressures. Upper arm monitors tend to be more accurate than wrist models as they can measure blood pressure from the brachial artery, which is used as the standard point of measurement. Popular upper arm monitors include Omron 10 Series, Panasonic EW3153, and Withings BPM Core.
Finger Blood Pressure Monitors
Finger blood pressure monitors take readings from the finger instead of the arm. They work by placing a clamp-like cuff around the finger and inflating it to get readings. While finger monitors are convenient due to their small size, they are more prone to errors than upper arm devices as blood flow and pressure can vary between the finger and arm. Examples include iHealth Finger, VeriHealth BP+ and QardioCore.
How They Work
All blood pressure monitoring devices work on the principle of sphygmomanometry. They utilize an inflatable bladder cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm, wrist or finger. The cuff is then rapidly inflated to momentarily block blood flow through the underlying artery. As the cuff is slowly deflated, the device listens for sounds of blood flow using a microphone placed over the pulse point.
The first sound heard is the systolic pressure when blood begins to flow back through the artery. As deflation continues, blood flow increases and the sounds become more distinct and louder. The point where sounds disappear indicates the diastolic pressure. Modern devices automate this process and digitally display the readings within moments. Some advanced monitors can store readings over time for tracking.
Factors Affecting Accuracy
While convenient, home and personal Blood Pressure Monitoring Devices monitors may not always provide readings as accurate as those from physician’s office devices. Several factors can affect the accuracy of readings:
– Device Validation: Monitors should be periodically checked against a mercury sphygmomanometer for validation every 6-12 months.
– Cuff Size: Using an incorrectly sized cuff can yield erroneous readings. Devices should come with multiple cuff sizes.
– Positioning: For arm monitors, the upper arm should be bare, supported and positioned at heart level during measurement.
– White Coat Effect: Readings may run higher at doctor’s clinics than home due to anxiety.
– Improper Technique: Not resting adequately, talking or excessive body movement can affect accuracy.
– Artery Location: Wrist and finger models may miss the brachial pressure readings.
Ensuring the device is validated, using correct cuff size and following procedural guidelines can help maximize accuracy of home blood pressure readings.
New Applications and Technologies
The field of blood pressure monitoring is continuously evolving. Researchers are working on:
– Non-Invasive Arterial Tonometry: Devices that can estimate brachial pressures from pulse wave analysis without inflation.
– Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring: Monitors that can continuously track pressures over 24 hours with a single calibration.
– Home Telemonitoring Devices: Monitors that can transmit readings wirelessly to physicians for remote monitoring.
– Artificial Intelligence Integration: Use of AI and machine learning to analyze readings and detect abnormalities.
– Combination Devices: Monitors integrating features like ECG, activity/sleep tracking and more.
Such advances aim to make blood pressure monitoring more convenient, accurate and useful for managing hypertension long term. Integration of remote monitoring technologies also enhances accessibility to healthcare providers.
Popular Models
Some top-selling blood pressure monitoring devices available in major markets include:
– Omron BP785N Upper Arm Monitor: Accurate device with normal, gentle and rapid modes. Stores 200 readings.
– Withings BPM Core Upper Arm Monitor: Stylish monitor connecting to mobile via Bluetooth. Automatic readings option.
– QardioArm Blood Pressure Monitor: Wrist-worn device with mobile app integration. Stores unlimited readings.
– iHealth BP7 Upper Arm Monitor: Basic monitor from a trusted brand. Large display, 60 readings memory.
– Fitbit Sense Smartwatch: Advanced smartwatch with ECG & SpO2. Irregular heartbeat notifications.
– Samsung Smart BP Monitor: Integrated solution connecting to Samsung Health app for tracking.
– Kinsa Smart Thermometer & Blood Pressure Monitor: Device combining thermometer and upper arm monitor.
Consumers can research features like accuracy levels, storage capacity, connectivity options and reviews to pick the best personal monitor as per their needs.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
