The Most Effective Blood Pressure Levels Monitors in 2020

Choosing and Using a Home Blood Pressure Monitor

Home blood pressure monitors have become common household devices, and for many residents they are a practical way to keep track of their health between clinic visits. Shopping for one can be confusing, though, so it helps to know which features genuinely matter. The information below is general guidance only. Anyone with concerns about their blood pressure should speak with a doctor or nurse.

Upper-arm or wrist?

Most health organisations recommend upper-arm cuff monitors for home use, because they tend to give more consistent readings than wrist models. Wrist monitors are smaller and easier to carry. However, they are more sensitive to arm position, and their readings can vary if the wrist is not held at heart level. A wrist model may still make sense for people whose upper arm is very large or who find an arm cuff painful, but it is worth discussing with a healthcare professional first.

Features worth looking for

• Validation: choose a device that has been clinically validated for accuracy. Many countries publish lists of validated monitors.
• Correct cuff size: a cuff that is too small or too large gives misleading results. Measure your arm and check the range printed on the packaging.
• Memory and averaging: stored readings make it easier to share trends with your doctor.
• Clear display: large numbers help older users and anyone with poor eyesight.
• Power options: a mains adapter as well as batteries is convenient, especially during Ulaanbaatar's long winters, when cold can shorten battery life.

Getting reliable readings

Sit quietly for about five minutes before measuring, with your back supported and your feet flat on the floor. Rest your arm on a table at heart level. Avoid caffeine, smoking and exercise for roughly half an hour beforehand, and don't talk while the cuff inflates. Taking readings at the same times each day, for example morning and evening, gives a more useful picture than occasional single checks. Write the results down or keep them in the device's memory, and bring them to your appointments.

Monitors can drift over time, so it is sensible to compare yours against a clinic reading now and then. For information about local health services and community programmes, see our Services page or browse our Guides.