Meaning of numbers and icons on an electronic tonometer

Regular blood pressure measurement is a check on the condition of your heart. Based on the evidence of the device, you can draw many conclusions about your own health. Although the tonometer value in itself is not a diagnosis, but a reason to think or consult a doctor. The results of the measurements can serve as a signal for the start of an examination or active treatment. Modern models are equipped with a display that displays blood pressure values and other encrypted indicators. Let’s figure out what these or other icons mean.

SYS and DIA values

The largest symbols on the display are two numbers, which mean upper and lower pressure. The number SYS (top) is located above, DIA – directly below it. The first blood pressure is recorded when heart sounds begin to be heard during deflation. The second is when the tones die down.

The average normal indicator is 135/85 (plus or minus 10). If the tonometer showed you such numbers, you can not worry. To make sure the readings are accurate, it is better to measure blood pressure on both arms and take into account the higher result (in the future, the pressure can be measured on the same arm). It is better to take measurements 3 times in a row with a break of 1-2 minutes and calculate the average value.

If SYS and DIA differ greatly (by 50 or more units), this indicates a violation. If the difference persists after repeated measurement, consult a doctor and undergo an examination.

In order for the measurement results to be as accurate as possible, you cannot move or speak during the process. Do not drink coffee, alcohol or energy drinks for 2 hours before the procedure. Other factors can affect the accuracy of the result. If a person is nervous or tense, the pressure will be too high. Taking sedative or herbal tinctures, on the contrary, will underestimate the result.

Pulse

Below the upper and lower blood pressure indicators, the pulse value is displayed in the form of a simple number. The norm for a person is 60-90 beats / min, but a lot depends on age, gender and individual characteristics of the body. If the pulse value has become too low or high, it can signal serious disturbances in the work of the heart.

Arrhythmia indicator

If the device detects an arrhythmia, it displays the corresponding icon on the display. In most models, it appears in the lower part in the center. Most often, the symbol is a flashing heart. The appearance of the indicator may indicate the irregularity of heart contractions or obstacles that arose during the measurement.

To confirm the presence of arrhythmia, blood pressure should be measured 2 more times with an interval of 1-2 minutes. If the icon lights up every time, see a doctor for an examination. Arrhythmia can be ignored, as it can indicate serious health problems. Atrial fibrillation is a disease that can be fatal if left untreated. The earlier the pathology is detected, the more chances there are to solve the problem once and for all. Heart rhythm disturbances often occur imperceptibly, so it is important to use a tonometer regularly. Such checks are a preventive measure that can save your life.

Graphic BP indicator

Some people, especially the elderly, have difficulty remembering the range of normal blood pressure values. There are models of tonometers with a graphic indicator especially for such cases. This means that the result is displayed on the display in a more simplified and understandable form.

The graphic indicator may look different depending on the model. Some manufacturers have it not on the display, but on the device body itself. The most common type of indicator is a color scale, where red signals a critically high pressure level.

High blood pressure is an alarm bell that requires immediate action. If you are prone to high blood pressure, you should always have drugs to lower it in your medicine cabinet. If the device starts signaling a problem for the first time, contact a doctor for diagnosis.

Traffic indicator

As you know, any movement during the measurement can lead to distortion of the results. That is why modern models are equipped with a movement indicator. In many models, it is an image of a human figure. The device illuminates the part of the body that was moved during the procedure. This indicator helps to achieve a state of complete calm.

Correct fastening of the cuff

If the cuff is not correctly fixed on the arm, this can also lead to distortion of the measurement results. Sometimes a person tightens too weak / tight or at the wrong level. In this case, the procedure will be painful, and the results will not correspond to reality.

Modern manufacturers, such as the Rossmax company, equip new models with a useful indicator. If the cuff is attached correctly, the device shows the OK icon. If it did not appear, the cuff needs to be adjusted.

“Smart” Measurement

A heart with a curved line and the inscription “Intellisense” is a symbol that stands for intelligent measurement technology. Devices working on its basis take readings during the inflation process, and not when the air is released into the cuff. This is more comfortable for a person and eliminates the possibility of excessive tightening of the cuff. The hand does not press hard, causing painful sensations. In addition, the procedure itself takes much less time.

The more evidence the tonometer can read, the better you will be able to assess your own health. Modern models of electronic tonometers have become much simpler and more accurate, offering people more opportunities. Remember these simple symbols – and use the tonometer without difficulty. We wish you good health!