Human wrist pressure meter. Wrist tonometer: reviews, review, instructions. Categories of the population who are comfortable with a tonometer on the forearm

Sooner or later, everyone needs to measure their blood pressure. And if this need becomes systematic, you should think about buying a tonometer. In pharmacies, medical equipment stores and even supermarkets you will find a huge range of devices. How to understand the measurement chaos and make the right choice?

When is it time to look for a blood pressure monitor?

The belief that only very old people measure blood pressure is not true. In fact, a tonometer may also be needed at a young age, including completely healthy people. Thus, monitoring blood pressure levels is necessary for pregnant women. According to statistics, 5–20% of women in an interesting situation develop hypertension. For them, a blood pressure monitor automatically becomes one of their essential items.

Blood pressure is also measured by athletes who exhaust their bodies with serious physical activity. Monitoring pulse and blood pressure in such cases is a necessary measure to prevent cardiovascular surprises.

And, of course, hypertensive patients. If you notice that your blood pressure may rise above 130/90, do not put off purchasing a blood pressure monitor. But first you need to understand which device to give preference to.

What is better - mechanics or automatic?

And the first question that buyers face is: what, besides price, is the difference between a mechanical and automatic blood pressure monitor?

Mechanical vehicles are among the most difficult to manage. To measure pressure with their help, you will need a keen eye that can detect the vibrations of the pressure gauge needle, and a sensitive ear that will hear even a quiet sound at the right moment.

However, a mechanical tonometer also has undoubted advantages. It is considered the most accurate after mercury, which has already gone into oblivion. The mechanics allow you to record indicators with virtually no error, it can serve for many years, and its price is not at all annoying.

Automatic devices, of course, are more expensive, but they are much faster and simpler than their old counterpart, just as a motorcycle is more agile and convenient than a reliable but slow bicycle. And not everyone enjoys pedaling every day. At the same time, the accuracy of some automatic tonometers is almost as good as mechanical ones.

Also, unlike mechanics, all automatic machines measure your pulse. And the additional functions that especially “advanced” models are equipped with can even prevent a cardiovascular accident. But choosing a machine turns out to be not so easy.

The diverse world of electronics

Semi-automatic devices occupy an intermediate place between mechanical and automatic devices. The semi-automatic machine “hears” and “sees” itself, but does not know how to pump air into the cuff. Air pumping occurs in the same way as in mechanical models. The device will notify you with a gentle beep when you can stop vigorously squeezing the bulb and relax while awaiting the results.

In terms of accuracy, semi-automatic machines are practically not inferior to mechanics, and the difference in price between them is not so sensitive. Therefore, a semi-automatic machine is often the best choice for those who want to get maximum convenience with minimal material losses.

There are two types of slot machines - on the wrist and on the shoulder. Wrist blood pressure monitors look very ergonomic, but their accuracy leaves much to be desired. The vessels of the wrist have a small gap, and no electronics can accurately calculate the pressure from them.

Wrist tonometers are more often used by athletes who are not afraid of a small error in the readings. For hypertensive patients, it is better to pay attention to the shoulder machine. This is where accuracy and convenience are, “two in one”!

The cuff of the brachial tonometer is located on the upper arm, along the inner side of which large vessels pass. This is why shoulder blood pressure monitors are very punctual. And, of course, an automatic machine is a convenience. The patient’s mission during blood pressure measurement is limited to securing and, after the procedure, removing the cuff. Oh, yes, you need to remember to press the one and only button, which will start the process.

What can an automatic blood pressure monitor do?

It would be too trivial if the capabilities of automatic tonometers were limited to measuring blood pressure and pulse. Electronics can do more! And before choosing a device, it is better to familiarize yourself with the additional functions and come to a conclusion whether it is worth paying for innovative developments.

The most common function that automatic and semi-automatic devices are equipped with is the diagnosis of arrhythmia. The tonometer monitors irregular heartbeats and, having identified them, signals danger. The device recognizes arrhythmia at the earliest stages, when you do not yet feel clinical manifestations. Therefore, determining arrhythmia is one of the most important functions for patients at risk: patients with hypertension and other diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

There are also tonometers that can detect atrial fibrillation, a common and very dangerous rhythm disorder. The most modern and, as a rule, expensive automatic devices are equipped with this function.

Another useful technology involves analyzing three consecutive measurements and producing an average result. It is no secret that the accuracy of an automatic tonometer largely depends on proper preparation for measuring blood pressure. To get the correct results, you should rest for 5-10 minutes before the procedure. You must be calm. During the procedure you cannot move, talk, or much more. By the way, these requirements apply to all types of tonometers - both automatic and mechanical.

However, if you did not have time to rest before the measurement, mechanics will still be more accurate than automation. The exception is devices that are equipped with a function for averaging three measurements. In one measurement, the tonometer manages to determine the indicators three times, process them and produce a “weighted average” and the most accurate result.

Don't rush to pay

So, you have decided on the type of device. What's next? Next, be sure to take a test measurement. Hold the tonometer in your hands and make sure that its parameters suit you. Check whether the standard cuff is long enough for you - for example, obese people have to be especially careful when choosing it. If you have poor eyesight, pay attention to the size of the screen: the larger it is, the larger the indicators displayed on it.

Don't forget about the network adapter - it connects to all machines except wrist ones. For those who regularly measure blood pressure, the adapter is indispensable. Sometimes it is sold complete with a tonometer, but most often it is purchased separately.

When you have touched, held and tried on everything and the result of these actions has pleasantly pleased you, check another important point - the issuance of a warranty card. This document will protect you from manufacturing defects and will be a worthy conclusion to the difficult purchasing process.

Marina Pozdeeva

Photo thinkstockphotos.com

A tonometer is a medical device used to obtain information about the state of a person’s blood pressure. Its main advantage is the accuracy of the results. Tonometers are used in medical institutions. Due to its affordable price and ease of use, it is also used at home. Allows for timely detection of hypertension and initiation of its treatment.

To make a correct diagnosis and get an adequate assessment of the condition of the body, you need to measure your blood pressure several times a day. It would not be superfluous to record the results and derive the average result. Then single pressure surges will not be mistaken for hypertension.

The first attempts to measure blood pressure were a long time ago. The final version of the tonometer was created at the beginning of the last century. Then the Russian military surgeon Nikolai Korotkov proposed to simplify the tonometer that existed at that time, readings from which were taken using columns filled with mercury.

Korotkov replaced mercury columns with a stethoscope and took readings by listening to the pulse. For more than half a century, the Korotkov tonometer remained the only device for measuring blood pressure, and only in 1965 the American doctor Seymour London proposed improving it by replacing the rubber bulb with a compressor and the stethoscope with a microphone.

Types of tonometers

Tonometers are mechanical, manual, automatic and semi-automatic.

Mechanical tonometer - the very first tonometer consists of two components: a cuff worn on the forearm, equipped with a bulb for pumping air and a pressure gauge, and a stethoscope. Blood pressure is measured in the artery by heart beats, the result is looked at on a manometer, while the heart beats are heard through a stethoscope.

This type of tonometer has a number of advantages:

It is much cheaper compared to others;
Its mechanism of action has proven itself over more than a century of use;
High accuracy of pressure measurement;
Its readings do not depend on temperature changes in the air, electromagnetic waves also do not affect it;
No batteries are needed to use it.

There are also some negative aspects to using such a tonometer:

Using it and getting accurate readings requires skill;
It is impossible to measure your own blood pressure; you need outside help; when you try to measure your own blood pressure, there is a 75% chance of getting the wrong result. The deviation from real pressure can be 10 points;
The person measuring must have good hearing.

Mechanical tonometers are most often used in clinics and other medical institutions.

In a semi-automatic tonometer, some operations are performed mechanically, which simplifies its use at home. Air is pumped into the cuff, like its mechanical counterpart, using an elastic balloon. But all other processes occur automatically.

This type of tonometer has a pressure meter equipped with an electronic display, which displays all the results of the measurement. In addition to blood pressure, this device also measures pulse, which allows you to get a more complete picture of the state of the body.

The main positive aspects of using this tonometer:

The measurement method is simpler than mechanical. There is no need to listen to your heartbeat through a stethoscope;
Ability to measure your own blood pressure;
The device automatically outputs the heart rate;
Remembers the last measurements;
Battery consumption is insignificant, which allows you to use it for a long time without replacing batteries;
The cost is lower than that of a more advanced automatic blood pressure monitor.

This device also has disadvantages:

Air must be pumped into the cuff independently, which can be problematic for a sick person;
Readings may be affected by external factors such as electromagnetic waves, ambient temperature, external vibrations and noise.

Automatic tonometers are the most advanced type of tonometer. All processes in it occur automatically. To obtain blood pressure results, you just need to put on the cuff and press a button on the electronic pressure gauge.

This device has a number of advantages compared to previous versions:

Depending on the model, these blood pressure monitors may have other additional features. This tonometer is also not without its drawbacks.

Such tonometers are quite expensive - this is their main drawback;
Consumes a lot of energy and requires frequent battery replacement;
The accuracy of the result depends on external factors such as electromagnetic waves, noise, vibration, air temperature.

Automatic blood pressure monitors are divided into two types, those that are worn on the forearm and a pressure meter on the wrist. Both of them provide fairly accurate pressure measurement results. The choice should be made based on your own convenience and preferences.

Who should use a wrist pressure measuring device?

If you lead an active lifestyle, doctors definitely recommend choosing a device for measuring pressure on your wrist. It is accurate, easy to use, and compact, which allows you to easily carry it in your purse or take it on trips. A device for measuring human pressure on the wrist is also used in children and adolescents.

For older people, an automatic tonometer on the forearm is more suitable. As blood vessels wear out with age, measuring pressure at the wrist may not be as accurate. All kinds of microtraumas to the wrist can also interfere with obtaining the correct result from such a tonometer. Joint diseases also reduce the chance of getting the correct measurement result.

However, the latest generation of wrist blood pressure monitors is equipped with the function of reading the pulse from two arteries, which allows its use in older people with poor blood vessels. Which is very convenient for older patients who are overweight and lead a sedentary lifestyle.

Externally, such a device looks like a large clock. It is extremely easy to put on - thanks to a special cuff, the pressure gauge, equipped with all the necessary components, is attached to the wrist. Its use does not require any skills.

How to correctly measure blood pressure with a tonometer on your wrist

To get accurate pressure measurements, you need to do this correctly.

How to choose the right blood pressure monitor for your wrist?

First of all, we need to be very clear about whose blood pressure we will measure using this device. For a child, you need to purchase a tonometer with a small cuff with a small diameter. The cuff should fit snugly on your arm and not dangle. There are blood pressure monitors for pregnant women, the elderly and athletes. They all differ in the range of functions they offer.
When choosing a tonometer on the wrist, we proceed from the functionality that we would like to have available. If the device will be used by several people, it would be nice to have several memory cells. The function of detecting arrhythmia during the measurement process will not be superfluous. Automatic heart rate calculation will help you get a more complete and adequate picture of the state of your body.
When purchasing a tonometer, it is a good idea to find out the warranty period that the manufacturer gives for its product. If the warranty lasts only a year or two, it is better to refuse such a purchase; most likely, this is not a very reliable device that may soon fail. A high-quality tonometer has a warranty period of at least five years, and sometimes longer. Remember, a tonometer is bought for many years.
If you have a very wide wrist, you should pay special attention to such an item as the size of the cuff. Don't hesitate to ask the seller to let you try on a blood pressure monitor to make sure this model is right for you.
Pay attention to the errors that this tonometer model gives. The smaller it is, the more accurate the result you will get. An error of 3-5 mm is quite acceptable.
When purchasing a tonometer, its cost plays an important role. The price should adequately reflect the available functionality. If the blood pressure monitor is too expensive, consider whether you really need all the features it offers.

Among modern models of wrist tonometers, the most popular are devices from Japanese manufacturers OMRON and AND. Models from these companies are easy to use and durable. For a very reasonable price, you can get all the necessary functionality without overpaying for unnecessary options. Their average cost varies between 2000-3000 rubles.

Fedorov Leonid Grigorievich

A wrist tonometer is a compact automatic device that is attached to this place and blood in the radial artery. This device is suitable for young people who have problems with blood pressure to monitor indicators at home and at work. It allows you to quickly obtain accurate information about the force of blood influence on the vessels.

How it works and who is it suitable for?

The wrist pressure meter is an innovative device that allows you to accurately measure blood pressure in your arteries. This is a compact and convenient tonometer, which, unlike bulky models, can be carried with you and taken measurements anywhere.

Models of wrist tonometers are often equipped with functions for determining heart rate and detecting heart rhythm disturbances.

The device is worn on the hand, and it produces results every quarter of an hour during the day and once every half hour at night. This device will allow you to determine how indicators change throughout the day and take preventive measures in case of deviations.

Both young and old people need to periodically monitor their blood pressure. And cardiovascular diseases are not always a companion to old age.

It is very convenient, quick and easy to find out your pulse and blood pressure using a tonometer on your wrist.

Compared to the classic device, which is mounted on the shoulder and has a built-in stethoscope, a wrist tonometer has a more compact size. In addition to the fact that such a meter performs its main function - it determines blood pressure, and with its help you can determine the pulse rate.

Some models have advanced functionality: they are able to save data for the last few measurements, and also have stress level sensors, comparative tables for determining deviations from the norm, and indicators.

Pros of a wrist tonometer:

Portability. The meter, which is only slightly larger in size than a wrist watch, can be easily carried with you and used on the road.
Accuracy indicators.
Possibility of comparison data and determining the dynamics of changes.

Disadvantages of a wrist tonometer:

Cuff length. The bracelet of the device, as a rule, has a length not exceeding 21 cm. Therefore, it is quite difficult for overweight people, children or those with very wide wrists to use such a meter.
Age limit. Since the walls of the blood vessels located in the wrist area become less elastic with age, a tonometer on the wrist is not particularly suitable for older people - the measurement accuracy will be low.

Another feature of the device is that when taking readings, the arm with the device should be bent at the elbow and be at the level of the heart.

What to look for and how to choose

To avoid making a mistake in choosing an electronic or manual wrist blood pressure monitor and to determine which model is best for you, you should pay attention to the following:

Focus and functionality. For older people, pregnant women, children or athletes, they differ in their range of functions.
Warranty period. Any device has its own warranty period, but for manufacturers of higher quality models it is no less, and sometimes even more than 5 years. If the warranty period specified by the manufacturer is 1-2 years or less, then you should refuse such a purchase.
Cuff length. If you have a non-standard wrist width, then this fact should be taken into account first.
Measurement error. Available for every meter. Its value is indicated in the description or passport of the device.
Price. It depends largely on what additional functions the meter has. If you only need it to periodically monitor indicators, then you can abandon unnecessary “bells and whistles” and choose an inexpensive device.

If you plan to take measurements outside the home most of the time, then you need to choose one that can run on batteries or rechargeable batteries.

Possible additional functions

Important features that may be found in wrist pressure monitors include the following:

Combination of automatic and mechanical operating principle. Some budget models have the ability to independently adjust pressure levels.

Number of cells in memory. This function is responsible for the device's ability to remember measurement data. The larger the memory capacity, the easier it will be to track the dynamics of changes in indicators.

This function is indispensable for those who suffer from cardiovascular diseases.

Intelligent assistants and systems. It is sometimes difficult for older people to learn how to use various equipment. To avoid complications, some models can be configured with voice assistance.
Availability of clock, alarm clock, calendar. Not always necessary and important functions, but for those who, due to circumstances, must constantly monitor their pulse and are also away from home, they can come in handy.
Indicators. Indicators of arrhythmia, correct hand position during measurements, motion sensors - all this is responsible for the accuracy of the data. If you do something wrong when taking readings, you will be immediately notified about this by a special signal.

How to use correctly: instructions for use

How to correctly measure blood pressure with a portable tonometer on the wrist? The usage algorithm is simple and is as follows:

You need to remove the device from the packaging and turn it on.
Place it on the wrist of your left hand, tighten the cuff tightly so that it is tightly pressed to the wrist and does not twist. It is more convenient to measure pressure by turning the display towards the inside of your arm.
Place your bent left hand to the middle of your chest (where your heart is).
Wait a while. As a rule, many models give a sound signal that measurements have been taken and recorded. The waiting time is usually no more than 30 seconds.
Record the readings and remove the cuff.

There is nothing complicated about using a wrist meter. If the meter has a semi-automatic mode, then you need to increase the pressure manually (there will be a special button for this).

What do doctors say about wrist blood pressure monitors? Watch the video:

Review of the best models

OMRON R5 Prestige

Not the most budget model, but at the same time has many additional features. It is fully automatic and has a memory of up to 180 measurements. Standard length cuff – up to 21.5 cm.

It determines the accuracy of measurements, and if an error occurs during the measurement process, the meter will independently cancel all indicators and will take measurements until the result is accurate and stable.

Average price in Russia – from 5700 to 6900 rubles.

AND UB-202

It belongs to the devices of the mid-price category; among the additional functions in it are: availability of WHO scale and arrhythmia indicator. This wrist automatic blood pressure monitor has a memory of up to 90 measurements.

The standard length cuff is up to 21.5 cm. Compared to other models, it is one of the lightest – 102 g. The manufacturer positions its product as mobile and compact, suitable for young people who lead an active lifestyle.

Average price in Russia – from 2300 to 3500 rubles.

NISSEI WS-1000

It is semi-automatic, that is The cuff inflation rate is manually adjusted. Such a device is budget-friendly and has no additional functions other than simultaneous indication of arterial parameters and pulse.

Capable of storing up to 30 measurements. The standard cuff length is up to 21.5 cm, but its minimum value, unlike other models, is 12.5 cm. The device can also be used by teenagers. Operates only on batteries.

Average price in Russia – from 1500 to 2200 rubles.

Average prices, frequently asked questions and answers

When is the best time to take readings with a wrist tonometer?
Blood pressure should be measured in a comfortable environment, 1-2 hours after eating, drinking alcohol or smoking. The cuff should be placed on the left arm.
Which is better to choose a wrist blood pressure monitor: semi-automatic or automatic?
There is no fundamental difference, but if maximum simplicity and speed of measurements are important to you, then choose automatic.
What is the advantage of such a wrist device compared to the same mechanical shoulder device?
It is not always convenient to use a mechanical device yourself, because only a doctor can accurately take readings. In addition, it is not suitable for people with poor hearing. This meter is small in size and much easier to use: it will do everything for you.

The simpler the tonometer, and the fewer additional functions it has, the cheaper the device will certainly be. The most inexpensive models can cost about 1,500 rubles, while the cost of the most expensive ones can exceed 6,000-7,000 rubles. On average, a high-quality and functional device will cost about 3000-3500 rubles.

To summarize the above, we can say that wrist tonometer is a very useful and necessary thing. If you are not one of those who cannot use such a device due to age or certain physical characteristics, then you can safely purchase it - it certainly will not lie idle.

Every person must undergo a medical examination at least once a year. Changes in blood pressure are included in the examination. However, people with cardiovascular diseases need constant and accurate determination of this indicator. There are many options for blood pressure. Which wrist blood pressure monitor is better? This issue should be resolved before purchasing. Feedback from users and experts will help with this. The question of which tonometer is best for changing pressure on the wrist should also be of interest to healthy people. After all, monitoring this indicator is important for everyone.

What is blood pressure

To decide which wrist tonometer is best, you should first understand its purpose.

The device determines blood pressure. There are several other similar indicators that are beyond the competence of the tonometer. These include venous, capillary, and intracardiac pressure. It is the arterial value that is determined by the tonometer on the wrist. Experts will help you which one is better to buy.

Blood pressure is one of the most important indicators of health and a sign of human life. His research shows the force with which blood presses on the walls of blood vessels. In the case of a tonometer, it is the arteries that are examined.

Pressure indicator

According to consumer reviews, in determining the best wrist blood pressure monitor, you should understand what exactly the device shows. The circulatory system is considered from the perspective of the volume of blood that the heart pumps over a certain time, as well as the resistance force of the vascular system. It is these indicators that a tonometer on the wrist can measure. Which one is better to buy will be discussed further.

The systolic (upper) value reflects the force of the blood on the arteries. This happens at the moment it is ejected from the heart. when the heart muscle contracts, it shows a higher value, which is changed by tonometers on the wrist. Which one is better? Consumer reviews will help answer this question.

The diastolic (lower) value of the indicator corresponds to the strength of the influence of blood on the vessels at the moment of relaxation of the heart muscle. A good wrist tonometer, according to expert reviews, should accurately measure both of the considered values.

Selection criteria

To decide which wrist blood pressure monitor is the best choice, there are a number of influencing factors to consider.

One of them is the frequency of operation. According to consumer reviews, an automatic wrist blood pressure monitor is simply irreplaceable for people who need regular blood pressure monitoring.

The age of the user should also be taken into account during the equipment selection process. A wrist tonometer is ideal for young and middle-aged people. Feedback from experts on the presented measuring equipment says that older people should use the type of device considered with certain software.

If the patient has already been diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases, then the best choice, according to consumer reviews, would be an automatic wrist blood pressure monitor, which has a function for determining the beat rhythm.

Types of tonometers

There are several types of tonometers. Based on the measurement method, wrist and shoulder options are distinguished. Automatic wrist blood pressure monitors are best used by people under 40 years of age who do not have serious cardiovascular diseases. To determine which tonometer is better - on the wrist or shoulder - you should evaluate the patient's age.

Measuring instruments are also classified according to the principle of measurement. There are mechanical, semi-automatic and automatic devices. Having first decided which type is better suited to a person (wrist or shoulder), you can understand which type of automation should be chosen. Semi-automatic units involve manual air inflation and automatic data collection. This principle is used in shoulder tonometers. A fully automatic blood pressure data collection device is used on the wrist.

Choosing a wrist blood pressure monitor

In addition to determining the type of equipment, you should evaluate some parameters that characterize wrist tonometers. Which one is better, expert reviews provide a whole list of parameters necessary to make a choice. For the presented equipment, the accuracy of the measurements is primarily important. A large error may cause the device to become unusable. A photo of the automatic tonometer is presented below.

You should also pay attention to the type of cuff. It is better if the device has the ability to connect to an electrical outlet and a computer. Its additional functions, memory and other technical issues are also important.

Tonometers for the elderly

The wrist tonometer, reviews of which were provided by experts in various sources, is divided according to its purpose for each age-old group of people.

Elderly patients are advised to purchase automatic devices. You can only measure blood pressure on your wrist using a device equipped with an intelligent logic system. It uses a special calculation formula that is able to provide accurate readings even with a weak, irregular pulse.

Elderly people should choose automatic blood pressure monitors that measure on the wrist, since even minor efforts when inflating the cuff can cause a surge in pressure. They must have a triple dimension of indicators. Many automatic wrist blood pressure monitors have this feature. Reviews from experts mark it as indispensable for older people.

Tonometers for young people

Automatic measurements taken at the wrist are very often used to determine blood pressure in young people.

Automatic wrist blood pressure monitors (photo below) should be purchased based on blood pressure measurements and doctor’s recommendations.

If the purpose of using the device is preventive monitoring of the state of the cardiovascular system in a young healthy person, the presented device will also be one of the most convenient.

There are varieties that can measure the cuff has a smaller girth. For pregnant women, such measuring devices can detect the early stages of preeclampsia (preeclampsia).

Young people do not need to have additional functions if they do not have cardiovascular diseases.

When purchasing, you should pay attention to the correct execution of warranty obligations. To understand which wrist blood pressure monitor is best to choose, you should pay attention to the service provided by the manufacturer.

It is better to choose the equipment model in which the manufacturer provides the possibility of repairing or replacing the device’s components. If a new cuff or other element of the tonometer is required, the responsible manufacturer must help resolve the issue free of charge during the warranty period. It should also be noted that automatic wrist blood pressure monitors should be purchased only in specialized shopping centers that have a license to sell medical equipment. Which one is better? Consumer reviews note the following. The best seller of the presented devices is the one who correctly fills out and facilitates the fulfillment of the manufacturer’s obligations to the buyer.

The warranty card must indicate the serial number, as well as the model and date of sale of the tonometer. The signatures of the seller and buyer must be here. It is better to attach a receipt to the warranty card. The address and telephone number of the service center must also be indicated in the above-mentioned document.