When To See A Doctor
If your readings are in the normal stage, keep up the good work!
If your readings are in the elevated stage, let your doctor know youd like to discuss options, such as lifestyle changes and medication, that may help bring your numbers down.
Consistent readings in the stage 1 or stage 2 high blood pressure categories require medical input. Let your healthcare professional know how many days your readings have been elevated, and what the numbers are. If you have to wait for an appointment, ask your doctor for guidance about lifestyle changes that may help bring those numbers down. These may include reducing salt intake, limiting alcohol, and alleviating stress.
One or more readings in the hypertensive crisis category mean you require immediate care. Call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.
Who This Is For
Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure , according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. High blood pressure forces your heart to work harder, putting a burden on the rest of your body. A home blood pressure monitor is not a diagnostic device, but a tool to help you keep track of your blood pressure between checkups.
The American Heart Association defines hypertension as having either a systolic reading over 130, or a diastolic reading over 80 mm Hg for adults over the age of 20, and prehypertension as 120/80 mm Hg or above. These numbers refer to the pressure of blood against your blood-vessel walls. The first number is the systolic pressure, measured when the heart beats the second number is the diastolic pressure, measured when the heart rests between beats.
The American Heart Association and many doctors recommend a blood pressure monitor for home use to help people with high blood pressure manage the condition. The daily use of a monitor can help a person track their blood pressure and prompt them to seek emergency care. At-home monitoring is also useful for patients who experience white coat syndrome, where the stress of visiting the doctors office causes blood pressure to spike. Still, keep in mind that home monitoring is meant to accompanynot replaceregular monitoring by a physician.
How We Chose These Blood Pressure Monitors
When deciding which blood pressure monitors to include, we considered factors like:
- Location. Blood pressure monitors that assess blood pressure on the upper arm tend to be considered the most accurate, so we focused our suggestions mostly on upper arm monitors.
- Size and fit. Choose a monitor that properly fits your upper arm, which helps to ensure accuracy. If you are smaller or larger than the average size, make sure the monitor is suitable for your measurements. Size is also a consideration if you plan to use the device on the go. If so, choose a lightweight, compact design that comes with a quality carrying case.
- Special features. Decide if you want a monitor that works on its own and stores readings internally. Some devices transfer data to your personal device and connect to an app that offers in-depth readings. Consider the display screen, options for multiple users, and extra capabilities such as irregular heartbeat detection.
- Accuracy. We know that accuracy matters when it comes to your health information, so we tried to include only monitors with a reputation for great accuracy.
- Price. Blood pressure monitors are available in a range of prices, so we did our best to showcase options for various budgets.
- Customer reviews. There are some things only someone who has bought and used a blood pressure monitor can know about it. Thats why weve given a lot of weight to what real users have to say about their experiences.
Read Also: What Can Happen If Your Blood Pressure Is Too High
Homedics Automatic Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor
Price: $
Features: automatically inflates and deflates to the appropriate level, multi-user memory, irregular heartbeat and excessive body motion detectors
Battery type: disposable AAA batteries
This monitor stores up to 30 readings for two users each and has a memory averaging function.
In addition to an irregular heartbeat sensor, it has an excessive body motion sensor, which tells you if your movements are strong enough to skew your blood pressure reading results. This helps eliminate false readings.
This monitor has a shorter length cuff than some other monitors. It may not fit people who have very large or thick wrists.
It comes with a 5-year warranty.
How To Use Relion Blood Pressure Monitors
ReliOn blood pressure monitors include a cuff that users wrap around their upper arm before taking their blood pressure. They can press a button to activate the measuring system after cuff placement.
Those using HBPM devices should measure their blood pressure multiple times per day, as blood pressure fluctuates over time. People using ReliOn devices can improve the accuracy of readings by:
- avoiding measuring blood pressure when feeling stressed
- remaining inactive for 15 minutes before measuring blood pressure
- avoiding eating and exercising 30 minutes before assessing blood pressure
- removing tight-fitting shirt sleeves before measuring blood pressure
- remaining as still as possible while taking blood pressure readings
- allowing 23 minutes between each reading
- measuring blood pressure at consistent times each day
American Heart Association states that HBPM with cuffs that fit around the upper arm offers the most accurate readings.
ReliOn blood pressure monitors take regular blood pressure readings over time and under controlled conditions. This helps them provide measurements that can be more accurate than a single blood pressure reading at a healthcare center.
However, 2015 research suggests inaccurate readings are common with HBPMs. The authors state part of this inaccuracy is due to user error rather than device issues.
Additionally, individuals may receive a free HBPM system by participating in the
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Are Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors Accurate
Many studies and medical experts suggest wrist blood pressure monitors arent accurate. In fact, the American Heart Association says wrist and finger monitors arent recommended because they yield less reliable readings.
In a 2020 study in Hypertension, researchers from seven universities and the World Hypertension League considered more than 970 home blood pressure devices sold by nearly 60 online retailers. They found 95% hadnt been validated for accuracyPicone D, et al. Nonvalidated home blood pressure devices dominate the online marketplace in Australia. Hypertension. 2020 75:1293-1599. . Validated monitors have been found to give accurate and reliable readings compared to clinical standards, says Andrew Feda, M.D., a geriatrician at One Medical in New York City. The validation process usually entails comparing the monitors reading to readings obtained by the traditional method used by a doctor in an office .
The American Medical Association and the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago developed a process to validate BP devices for clinical accuracy, says Dr. Feda. Of the 162 wrist cuff-specific devices, only 8% had been validated, and none of the 530 wristband-style wearables have been validated.
Common reasons for inaccuracies in wrist blood pressure monitor readings include:
Best With Talking Feature: A& d Premier Talking Blood Pressure Monitor
The A& D Premier Talking Blood Pressure Monitor is another great option for visually impaired users. This blood pressure monitor features an audio setting that reads out instructions, results, and a brief data analysis in English, Spanish, or French.
Our testers said that the setup for this device was simple, and the cuff fits nicely and can accommodate upper arms with a diameter between 9 and 14.6 inches. The talking function activates at the push of the start button, and guides the user throughout the process while also displaying the results on the devices screen.
The monitors screen isnt well lit, so it might be hard to see results in darker settings. That being said, it overcompensates for this through its talking feature, so youll be able to get your results regardless. The devices perfect five out of five scores in every attribute resulted in a five out of five overall value score.
Average Standard Deviations
Price at time of publish: $80
Verywell Health / Nick Kova
Power Source: Batteries or AC adapter | Maximum Readings Stored on Device: 90 | Number of Users It Can Store Data For: 1 | Weight: .66 lbs
Recommended Reading: How To Get Diastolic Blood Pressure Down
Best Fit: Welch Allyn Home Blood Pressure Monitor 1700 Series With Surebp Technology
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Ready to use out of box
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Connected app is easy to navigate
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No carrying case included
We loved the fit of this monitors cuff, which holds its cylindrical shape at all times and makes it easy to fit properly onto your arm. This makes it great for those with limited mobility and keeps setup quick and fuss-free.
The connected app is another great feature of this device: it stores multiple readings, indicates irregularity in readings, and is easy to connect to quickly. Data taken on the monitor uploads immediately to the app, so you get real-time feedback as you take your measurements.
While the monitor itself is lightweight, it doesnt come with a carrying case which might make it harder to travel with when needed. Because of this aspect, we gave this device a three out of five for portability and a four out of five for overall value.
Average Standard Deviations
Price at time of publish: $65
Verywell Health / Nick Kova
Power Source: Batteries or AC adapter | Maximum Readings Stored on Device: 99 | Number of Users It Can Store Data For: 1 | Weight: 1.2 lbs
At Home Vs The Doctors Office
Many people find that they have higher blood pressure readings at the doctors office, sometimes because theyre less at ease there and because professional tools may be more accurate.Home blood pressure readings can be less accurate than those taken at the doctors office, where manual checks are a possibility. One way to ensure that you get consistent blood pressure readings is to bring your monitor with you to an appointment and compare the results.Talk with your doctor to make sure you use the device correctly and check for accuracy. Be consistent in your approach and take your blood pressure at the same time each day. Sit in the same position, avoid caffeine, and rest ahead of time for the best results.
Recommended Reading: How To Immediately Lower Blood Pressure
Should I Buy A Used Blood Pressure Monitor
While many used blood pressure monitors are available, its a good idea to buy a new one. The accuracy and reliability of your blood pressure monitor can determine your hypertension care course and may save your life. You want to make sure your machine works correctly.
To check how accurate your monitor is, you can take it to your doctors office and see how it compares with their results.
What Are The Different Types Of Blood Pressure Monitors
There are three methods for measuring blood pressure:
- Upper Arm Monitors are the only type recommended by the American Heart Association because theyre the most accurate.2 The cuff wraps around the upper part of your arm and tightens to measure your blood pressure.
- Wrist Monitors wrap around your wrist to measure your blood pressure. Wrist blood pressure monitors arent considered as accurate as upper arm monitors unless you have your arm and wrist positioned exactly at heart level. You must follow the manual very closely because theres a lot of room for error. Wrist monitors are easy to travel with and can be more comfortable than upper arm monitors.
- Finger Monitors are very similar to wrist monitors. Theyre small, easy to travel with, and more comfortable than an upper arm monitor. Again, the main shortcoming is that its not the most accurate.
You want to pick the best type for your needs that also meets your doctors recommendations.
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Best Overall: Omron Upper Arm Gold Blood Pressure Monitor
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Stores 100 data sets per user
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Results available in under 30 seconds
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Only supports two users
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Bluetooth feature does not provide much additional information
What do buyers say? 90% of 2,900+ Amazon reviewers rated this product 4 stars or above.
When we looked at our most important attributes: ease of use, fit, and data display, the Omron Upper Arm Gold Blood Pressure Monitor received a five out of five in every category. We found that it was not only easy to fit and position on your arm, but it gave extremely clear, straightforward data in less than a minute.
The Omron Gold only requires two steps to set up: insert the four included AA batteries and attach the cuff to the monitor. The cuff itself is large enough to accommodate a range of arm sizes, but the most impressive feature of this device is how straightforward its instructions are. Once the cuff is around your arm, press the start button and wait for about 30 seconds until your blood pressure and heart rate reading appear on the screen.
While this monitor is great for quick readings and taking on the go , its Bluetooth feature is a bit clunky and difficult to navigate easily. We ultimately found that was a fair trade off for a device so versatile and easy to use, thus receiving our vote for Best Overall blood pressure monitor.
Average Standard Deviations
Price at time of publish: $95
Verywell Health / Nick Kova
What Are Relion Blood Pressure Monitoring Systems
ReliOn offers a range of HBPM systems for users. These machines enable individuals to check their blood pressure regularly at home.
Omron manufactures ReliOn products and various other health devices. However, ReliOn does not currently have a website or Amazon store for its HBPM systems.
The companys HBPM systems use wrist or arm cuffs to measure blood pressure, while some models can also detect irregular heartbeats.
Below is a list of advantages and disadvantages of ReliOn blood pressure monitors.
Also Check: When Should You Go To The Hospital For Blood Pressure
How We Rated The Blood Pressure Monitors
4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best blood pressure monitors we tested. We recommend them without reservation.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These blood pressure monitors are excellentthey might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.
4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great blood pressure monitors, but others are better.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: These blood pressure monitors are just average.
3.4 and below: We don’t recommend blood pressure monitors with this rating you won’t find any on our list.
Verywell Health / Nick Kova
How To Use Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor
When using a wrist blood pressure monitor it is important to use it the correct way to get the most accurate reading.
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Apply the wrist monitor securely
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Keep the elbow on the table or desk with your forearm bent
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Make sure to place the wrist at heart level
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Keep your arm relaxed and your hand resting against your body
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Press the button to measure the wrist blood pressure without moving the arm
It is a good idea to measure blood pressure two times a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
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When Is The Best Time To Take Your Blood Pressure
Since blood pressure varies throughout the day, its best to check your blood pressure a few times a day. The best time to take your blood pressure is typically after you wake up and before you have breakfast, says Dr. Avetian. He also recommends taking it again in the eveningbetween dinner and bedtimewhen youre feeling relaxed.
Flaws But Not Dealbreakers
While the 0604 can run on either battery power or with an AC adapter, unless there are working batteries installed, the machines date and time reset every time its unplugged. This doesnt affect the storage capacity on the app or device, but it does add a few extra seconds to testing time, which normally requires just a single click of the start button, and dates can become jumbled if programmed improperly .
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What Are Some Alternative Brands And Products
Alternatives to ReliOn monitors include the below.
- Omron Platinum Blood Pressure Monitor: This is a battery-operated device that measures blood pressure with an arm cuff. It uses Bluetooth and a smartphone app to work. The monitor takes three consecutive readings for better accuracy.
- LotFancy Blood Pressure Monitor: This device comes with an easy-to-read display. The device also alerts users about issues with their heart rate.
- Welch Allyn Home Blood Pressure Monitor: This medical-grade device can measure a persons blood pressure with the help of an app and a range of cuff sizes.
Here we answer some common questions about these devices.
Who Should Use A Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor
People who are modifying their lifestyles or losing weight may benefit from daily or twice-daily readings at home. People who are new to blood pressure medication may also benefit. Anyone who wants to keep an eye on their blood pressure readings may benefit from using a wrist blood pressure monitor.
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Best Data Storage: Microlife Watch Bp Home
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Cuff fits easily and comfortably onto arm
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Screen displays excessive data that may be confusing to user
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Slight learning curve to understanding the device
If youre investing in a quality blood pressure monitor, youre likely going to want to get plenty of uses out of it. The Microlife Watch BP Home Blood Pressure Monitor stores up to 250 blood pressure readings, so you can track your vitals over time. The device is easy to set up and only requires plugging the cuff into the monitor itself. The cuff, which has instructions for use printed on the outside, stays put once positioned on your arm.
Once youve taken your reading, the monitor automatically stores the data and previous readings can be accessed by the M button on the machine. It offers a Diagnostic Mode for people whose doctors put them on a 7-day self-monitoring program, and can detect A-Fib.
Our testers said that the one downside to this machine is that it provides more information than necessary on its display. The screen shows the date, battery life, and various other icons that could be confusing to an inexperienced user, though it provides plenty of information for anyone who prefers that level of detail. We gave this device a point a four out of five for data display, but because it received five out of five in every other category, we gave the Microlife Watch BP a 4.5 out of five for overall value.
Average Standard Deviations
Price at time of publish: $100
Verywell Health / Nick Kova