Your doctor may recommend home measurement of your blood pressure as part of your treatment. You will need a device called a sphygmomanometer (pronounced “sfig-mo-ma-NOM-et-er”) for measuring blood pressure. All blood pressure monitoring devices have an inflatable cuff that encircles your upper arm. It is important check with your doctor and nurse about what  cuff size is appropriate for you. When the cuff, the arteries in your arm are briefly closed.

As you gradually release the pressure with the airflow regulator and listen over an artery with a stethoscope, you  will begin to treat a pulse beat (a tapping sound). The point at which you hear the first beat indicates your systolic pressure (the top number), and the point at which your pulse beat disappears indicates your diastolic pressure (the bottom number).

Mercury-column models feature an easy-to-read column of mercury that rises and falls in response to the amount of pressure exerted on the blood pressure cuff. This is the only device that actually measures your blood pressure in millimeters of mercury.

Spring-gauge models feature a round dial that is activated by a spring-pressure gauge that indicates the amount of pressure in the arm cuff. Each degree the needle moves in the measurement dial is equivalent to a millimeter of mercury.

Electronic digital models use built-in electronic sound sensors to read your blood pressure, which is displayed on a digital readout. Many models also have built-in pulse monitors that measure your pulse rate. You do not need a stethoscope for this type of device.

Multiple readings in different locations such as home or work, taken on a regular basis, can give your doctor valuable information that can help tailor your treatment. Be sure your device is calibrated periodically to ensure accurate readings.

*258\252\8*