Common FAQs regarding BP monitors

Some common questions people have on BP monitors. Here is my take:

• What are the standard Blood Pressure Classifications?
  The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Society of Hypertension (ISH) jointly developed the following blood pressure classification. This classification, however, this is only a general guideline because your optimum blood pressure depends on your age, morbidity, and treatment strategy by a doctor. Consult your doctor to determine your optimum blood pressure.
  Normal 100-140 / 60-90
  Mild Hypertension: 140-160/ 90-100
  Moderate Hypertension: 160-180/ 100-110
  Severe Hypertension: 180+/ 110+
• Which is better – Upper Arm or Wrist Monitor?
  Upper Arm is the traditional standard monitor- the best selling category. Wrist monitors offer more convenience and are lighter weight. Technical accuracy is claimed to be same by manufacturers. Which one to buy is just a personal choice
• Are digital monitors accurate? Why do I get a different reading at home with my digital monitor and at the clinic with the mercury meter?
  Digital meters are now fairly accurate (+/- 5%). A key reason for difference is often that the actual BP varies from setting to setting, and patients will get different readings in the relaxed state of the home vs a doctor’s clinic. Having said that, digital meters are definitely easier to use and may be regularly checked against the mercury ones to ensure the accuracy stays
• Whats the difference between large cuff and regular cuff?
  The regular cuff is for arm sizes 22-32 cms, and the large cuff is for much thicker arms. Most people have the arm circumference around 25cams, and the regular cuff works perfectly. People with thick arms or biceps may need the large cuff. The price difference is approx Rs 700