Sphygmometer (Blood Pressure Monitor)
A sphygmometer measures blood pressure. The usual name is sphygmomanometer.
Updated . Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.
Where to buy
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Pharmacies sell digital home monitors. Medical supply stores carry manual aneroid sets for students and clinics.
Professional insight
Clinicians pick the cuff size first, then a validated device. A wrong cuff ruins any reading.
- Measure upper arm circumference before choosing the cuff.
- Search the model on a validated device list.
- Aneroid dials should rest at zero with no pressure.
- Manual sets need a separate stethoscope for readings.
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Types
| Type | How it reads | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Digital | Oscillometric sensor, screen display | Home use without training |
| Aneroid | Dial gauge plus stethoscope | Clinics, students, portable kits |
| Mercury | Column of mercury | Being phased out; avoid buying |
Sizing
A cuff that is too small reads falsely high. One that is too large reads falsely low.
- Measure midway between shoulder and elbow.
- Child, adult and large adult cuffs are sold separately.
- Thigh cuffs exist for very large arms or leg readings.
Sphygmometer facts
- Invented
- 1881
- By Samuel von Basch.
- Unit
- mmHg
- Millimetres of mercury.
- Name origin
- Greek sphygmos, pulse
- Plus manometer, a pressure meter.
Safe use
- Sit still for a few minutes before measuring.
- Keep the cuff at heart level.
- Take readings at the same times each day.
- Share unusual readings with your doctor.
Common questions
- Is sphygmometer the same as sphygmomanometer?
- Yes, in everyday searches. Both mean a blood pressure measuring device.
- Wrist or upper arm?
- Upper arm cuffs are usually preferred. Wrist units are more sensitive to position.
- Does an aneroid gauge need calibration?
- Yes. Have it checked against a reference device on a regular schedule.