Types of blood pressure monitor in Singapore

Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential to detect high blood pressure. Persistent high blood pressure can cause hypertension, a leading risk factor for heart disease. Hypertension is a ‘silent killer’ as it does not present any symptoms until significant damage has been done to the heart and arteries. Hence, it is important to swiftly detect high blood pressure and get it under control through healthy lifestyle habits to manage it.
Choosing and using the right blood pressure monitor correctly provides accurate results. With many blood pressure monitor models and brands to choose from, do you know which blood pressure monitor suits you best?
 

What is a blood pressure monitor?
Blood pressure refers to the force of the blood pushing against the walls of the arteries when the heart pumps. A blood pressure monitor measures the movement of blood pressure in the arteries as the heart pumps.
Blood pressure is measured in units of millimetres of mercury (mmHg).

The BP Monitor device measures two different blood pressures in your body – systolic (SYS) and diastolic (DIA). They are usually presented in a ratio of systolic to diastolic (e.g., 120/80mmHg, meaning 120 over 80).

1. Systolic blood pressure is exerted against artery walls when the heart beats, i.e., when the heart muscle contracts and pumps oxygen-rich blood into the blood vessels. It also measures the pressure when the heart beats.
2. Diastolic blood pressure is exerted against the artery walls when the heart muscle relaxes. Diastolic pressure is always lower than systolic pressure. It measures the pressure between heartbeats.

Your blood pressure varies throughout the day and keeps blood circulating in your body. It is lowest when you’re sleeping and possibly at its highest when you are physically active. When blood pressure measurement is raised, it means that your blood is pumping with more force than normal through your arteries. A normal blood pressure reading should be less than 130/85mmHg.

Self-monitoring your blood pressure can help with:

• Early diagnosis: monitoring blood pressure at home is especially important for those at risk of hypertension or having a condition that could contribute to high blood pressure, such as diabetes or kidney problems. High blood pressure can be detected through regular blood pressure monitoring. Studies suggest that a home blood pressure monitor has excellent diagnostic accuracy for irregular heartbeats detection, such as atrial fibrillation.
• Take charge of your healthcare and medical costs: taking control of our own well-being can possibly lead to optimal health and independence in the future. Knowing the readings on the blood pressure monitor can give you a sense of control over your health and potentially reduce your medical costs, as it motivates you to better control your blood pressure through a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and a healthier lifestyle.

Common types of blood pressure monitor in Singapore
There are two basic types of blood pressure monitors that use an arm cuff and are available for home use in Singapore. They are aneroid monitors or analog, and digital blood pressure monitors. Other options such as wrist blood pressure monitors and smartwatches are available in the market to monitor and track blood pressure. However, they are not recommended as they yield less reliable readings.
No matter what type of blood pressure monitor you choose, proper and accurate use requires practice. You may consult a doctor or pharmacist to make sure you get a blood pressure monitor that is best for you.

Where to buy blood pressure monitors in Singapore

Contrary to popular advice and belief, you do not need a doctor’s note or prescription to purchase a blood pressure monitor.
Blood pressure monitors are sold over the counter and are widely available in Singapore, at places such as the pharmacy, clinics, hospitals and major supermarkets. Online stores are excellent places to compare and buy blood pressure monitors, as they can be delivered directly to your doorstep.

Learn how to choose the best blood pressure monitor here.

Take charge of your health today!