A blood pressure monitor is a medical device designed to measure the pressure of blood in your arteries. It can be used in a doctor's office or at home. The device typically includes an inflatable cuff that wraps around the arm and a gauge that displays the blood pressure readings. Some modern monitors are digital and provide readings with the push of a button.
Monitoring blood pressure is important for overall health because high blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and stroke. Regularly checking your blood pressure helps you and your healthcare provider understand your heart health and take necessary actions if your levels are too high or too low.
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as the heart pumps it around the body. A blood pressure monitor helps track this force, providing two key measurements: systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart beats) and diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart rests between beats). These readings give insight into how well your heart and blood vessels are functioning.
Using a blood pressure monitor can empower individuals to take charge of their health by keeping track of their blood pressure levels. It is an essential tool for those with known health conditions or anyone wanting to maintain good heart health.