Blood Pressure Monitors: Causes of Inaccuracy and Maintenance Tips14

## Electronic Blood Pressure Monitors: Why They Stop Being Accurate Over Time

Electronic blood pressure monitors are commonly used to measure blood pressure at home. They are convenient and affordable, but over time, they can become inaccurate. Here are some of the reasons why electronic blood pressure monitors stop being accurate, and some tips for keeping them calibrated and functioning properly.
1. Cuff Size
The size of the cuff is important for accurate blood pressure readings. If the cuff is too small, it will give falsely high readings; if the cuff is too large, it will give falsely low readings. Most electronic blood pressure monitors come with a range of cuff sizes, so it is important to choose the one that is right for your arm size.
2. Body Position
The position of your body can also affect the accuracy of your blood pressure readings. You should always sit upright with your feet flat on the floor and your arm supported at heart level. Avoid talking or moving around while your blood pressure is being taken.
3. Blood Pressure Medication
If you are taking blood pressure medication, it is important to take it as prescribed. Blood pressure medication can lower your blood pressure, so if you take it too close to the time that you are taking your blood pressure, it could give you a falsely low reading.
4. Irregular Heartbeat
An irregular heartbeat can also affect the accuracy of your blood pressure readings. If you have an irregular heartbeat, you may need to use a blood pressure monitor that is specifically designed for people with irregular heartbeats.
5. Cuff Leaks
Cuff leaks can also cause inaccurate blood pressure readings. If there is a leak in the cuff, the air will escape and the cuff will not be able to inflate properly. This will give you a falsely low blood pressure reading.
6. Battery Power
Weak batteries can also cause inaccurate blood pressure readings. If the batteries in your blood pressure monitor are weak, they may not be able to power the monitor properly. This can lead to inaccurate readings.
How to Keep Your Blood Pressure Monitor Accurate
There are a few things you can do to keep your electronic blood pressure monitor accurate:
* Use the correct cuff size.
* Sit upright with your feet flat on the floor and your arm supported at heart level.
* Take your blood pressure at the same time each day.
* Avoid talking or moving around while your blood pressure is being taken.
* Take your blood pressure medication as prescribed.
* If you have an irregular heartbeat, use a blood pressure monitor that is specifically designed for people with irregular heartbeats.
* Check the cuff for leaks regularly.
* Replace the batteries in your blood pressure monitor regularly.
When to Replace Your Blood Pressure Monitor
If you have followed the tips above and your blood pressure monitor is still giving you inaccurate readings, it may be time to replace it. Blood pressure monitors typically last for about 5 years, so if yours is older than that, it may be time for a new one.

2025-01-05

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