Types of home monitors

Most pharmacies, medical supply stores and some websites sell home blood pressure monitors. An automatic or electronic device is recommended. Discuss the choices with your doctor so that you pick the monitor that's best for your situation.

Monitors generally have the same basic parts:

• Inflatable cuff. The cuff's inner layer fills with air and squeezes your arm. The cuff's outer layer has a fastener to hold the cuff in place. Heart rate and blood flow are automatically calculated by measuring the changes in the motion of your artery as the blood flows through while the cuff deflates.
• Gauge for readouts. Some blood pressure monitors can take multiple readings and report the averages.

Digital monitors that are fitted on the upper arm are generally the most accurate.

If you can't find a cuff big enough for your upper arm or if you find blood pressure measurements painful, ask your doctor about fitting a cuff to your lower arm or wrist. These types of cuffs can be difficult to use correctly. Ask your doctor if they might be options for you and how they should be used.

Devices that measure your blood pressure at your wrist or finger aren't recommended by the American Heart Association.