Hypertension is considered a “silent killer” - its symptoms are so insignificant and blurred, and it becomes the cause of death in three out of ten cases.
Thanks to modern automatic and semi-automatic tonometers (instruments for measuring pressure), you can now control your condition at home without any special skills in this matter. If a systematic increase in pressure is detected, you should consult a doctor in time - this will help to take timely measures and even save a life.
For a high-quality and comfortable pressure measurement at home, not only the tonometer itself is important, but also its components, in particular the cuff. Below are descriptions of the three most popular manufacturers of pressure measuring instruments and cuffs for them. You can choose the most suitable option for you. Universal and standard cuffs that suit most family members are especially popular.
Cuff A&D.
The cuff for the And tonometer (A&D, "Andes") is a standard convenient band, familiar in use, but having a number of features.
The main plus of it is that the standard cuff for the And tonometer thanks to the plug fits both automatic and semi-automatic tonometers of the same manufacturer. So if for some reason the cuff has failed (incorrect washing, damage), you can purchase a universal option, which will be the standard cuff for the And tonometer, and continue monitoring the pressure without having to buy a new tonometer.
The second feature is the presence of a compensation valve, which allows you to evenly remove air from the cuff and thereby provides more accurate measurement data.
The third characteristic is the presence of a single longitudinal seam. This allows you to increase the area of the cuff itself and provides a more uniform distribution of air in it, thereby reducing pain during air injection.
Varieties of cuffs A&D.
Cuff SlimFit - has one longitudinal seam, lasts a long time, as it is made of high-quality wear-resistant materials. It has dimensions for different shoulder circumferences: small (18-22), standard (22-32), large (32-45).
Cuff E Cuff, or "soft cuff". Its material is both durable and soft to the touch. Especially suitable for children, as it does not cause discomfort during the procedure. Its sizes are for children (17-22) and universal (22-43 cm).
The Opti Cuff cuff is made of hypoallergenic materials, does not contain metals and latex, is suitable for people with sensitive skin (including the presence of burns on the shoulder). Dimensions - large (32-45) and standard (22-32 cm).
When buying the "Andes" cuffs separately from the tonometer, still consult the seller about how compatible it is with your device or bring it with you to the store and see for yourself.
Any cuff for And tonometer is purchased with a one-year warranty and certificates of conformity.
Omron Cuff
The cuffs for the Omron tonometer ("Omron") have the shape of a fan, which is considered the most organic, due to their similarity to the shape of the shoulder (widened up and narrowed down). Thus, the device is more tightly attached to the shoulder surface, which gives the most accurate measurement result.
Many people experience unpleasant sensations in the process of measuring pressure, when the air pumped into the cuff exerts excessive pressure on the shoulder. Emotional and physiological discomfort can affect the results of pressure, experts say. But the cuffs for Omron tonometers are simultaneously and evenly filled with air, this allows you to record the most accurate fluctuation of the vascular wall and thereby determine the real pressure indicators.
Universal cuff "Omron" has a small height. This allows you to correctly and conveniently perform the procedure for people with a voluminous and low forearm.
The universal cuff "Omron", which is equipped with all popular tonometers of this manufacturer, has dimensions of 22-42 cm, which means that it can be used by all family members, with any girth of the arm. This cuff can be purchased separately, it fits different models of Omron tonometers.
There are also sizes: children's (17-22), large (32-42), standard (22-32 cm).
Cuff Microlife
It has the appearance of a truncated cone, which corresponds to the anatomical shape of the forearm and provides an accurate and comfortable measurement of pressure.
The needle valve smoothly releases air from the chamber and the process is painless, and the indicators will be the most accurate.
The cuff for the Microlife tonometer has a solid metal ring that prevents the product from deforming, and some models come without a ring at all.
Most cuffs from this manufacturer have a removable cover that can be machine washed, otherwise the cover should be cleaned with a cloth dampened in soapy water (these options are described in the instructions).
The cuff chamber is made of latex and has a solid (solid cast) structure, which ensures its increased elasticity and strength.
The Velcro cuff is attached not to the fabric, but to the counterpart of the strip, this extends the life of the entire product.
The cuff "Microlife" is suitable for almost all tonometers of this manufacturer.
The sizes are also different: universal (22-42 cm) is suitable mainly for people with large shoulders, large (32-42), standard (22-32 cm).
Take care of yourself and loved ones!