TECH KNOW TIDBITS Digital blood pressure devices for home use are trustworthy BY LINDSAY SANDERFUR It is relatively easy to check blood pressure regularly. Battery operated, digital blood pressure devices are available at pharmacies and discount stores. “They’re very good. They’re very accurate,” said pharmacist Lee Tibbitts of Hobbs Pharmacy on Merritt Island. “Some of the more expensive ones actually come with a power cord. So you can use them battery powered or you can plug them in.” Blood pressure readings give systolic over diastolic pressure. This is the force of blood against artery walls as measured when the heart muscle contracts (systole) and relaxes (diastole) between beats. The American Stroke Association calls high blood pressure or hypertension “the silent killer” due to its lack of symptoms. So regular checkups are necessary — for everyone. “A lot of people go into the doctor’s office and they get their blood pressure checked and it’s high. It’s called white coat syndrome,” Tibbitts said. This is common due to nervousness about visiting the doctor. So home testing is best. Physicians encourage a blood pressure machine at home to monitor blood pressure on a daily basis. “At home, you can check once or twice a day and get more accurate readings over time, he says. Monitor your numbers “Too low is anything with a diastolic below 60,” Tibbitts said. “Once you go below 60, you’re just going to pass out. There’s not enough blood pressure to get the blood to your brain. Your brain shuts down, trying to save the body by making you lay
Pharmacist Lee Tibbitts checks the blood pressure of pharmacy technician Nancy Druck. down so the blood doesn’t have to pump up to your head.” Too high varies by individual “For some people, it could be 160/90,” Tibbitts said. Symptoms of high blood pressure include dizziness, bloodshot eyes, a bloody nose or even blood exiting the ears, all due to small-broken capillaries. Red spots called blood blots may appear in the eyes. When this happens, blood pressure is elevated with “systolic probably over 200 and diastolic probably in excess of 120,” he said. This warrants a doctor or emergency room visit.
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Hobbs Pharmacy offers a standup machine and manual gauge with an inflatable cuff. Digital sphygmomanometers are for sale. Tibbitts said, “I think the one that you listen to is probably the most accurate.” For the best comparison, check your blood pressure across types. Numbers will vary slightly. Donna Sammon of Browning Pharmacy in Melbourne said the devices are only as accurate as the person using it. “If you use it correctly they are going to get a good reading,” she said. “You should do it consistently.” She suggested taking readings at the same times each day. SENIOR LIFE Elaine Moody “I haven’t had a bad Home-use blood pressure devices are trustworthy. brand,” Tibbitts said. “We do have a couple of dedicated team that will talk to you. generic ones — the Leader brand is If your cuff’s not blowing up full, or less expensive — but I haven’t had your readings seem to be off, they’ll anybody bring them back.” kind of troubleshoot with you,” he Omron has a 1-800 number on the box. “You call and they have a said. SL
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