Panasonic Blood Pressure Monitors

I know this is a bit self serving but we're really pleased to be adding a range of Panasonic blood pressure monitors to the site. Panasonic are one of the originators of home blood pressure monitors - they actually invented the first wrist monitors, so we think they've earned their place. They also have 3 year warranties, which we really like.

Blood Pressure - Common Questions

I saw this on the Omron web site - very useful.

Q: What exactly is blood pressure?

The heart creates pressure in order to pump blood around the body. The level of this blood can vary depending on the heart's rate of work and the resistance in the blood vessels.

Q: What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?

The trouble with high blood pressure is that usually, there are no symptoms. The best idea is to ask your doctor for a check-up, or use a personal blood pressure monitor.

Q: What are the long term risks of high blood pressure?

Without treatment, high blood pressure can lead to numerous health problems including heart attacks, circulatory problems and kidney failure. It is also one of the most common causes of strokes.

Q: What causes high blood pressure?

Many things, often linked to modern living. Among the most common are obesity, over-indulgence in alcohol, smoking, lack of exercise and the stress of modern life, although high blood pressure can also be hereditary.

Q: What can I do to lower my blood pressure?

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit, fresh vegetables, potatoes and rice. Avoid animal fats and use less salt. Try to drink less alcohol and exercise more. If you smoke, stop. If needed, your doctor will also prescribe suitable medication.

Q: How accurate are personal blood pressure monitors, and how often should they be used?

Extremely accurate, assuming they have been correctly calibrated and clinically validated. Always check this before buying. Normally, blood pressure should be monitored twice a week.

Step Counters

I have recently been diagnosed as having high cholesterol - it runs in my family, my brothers both have it and now my lifetime of eating crisps has finally caught up with me. Apart from trying to cut out some of the foods that contribute to high cholesterol I am trying to exercise more - I like walking but I talk myself out of it quite often.

I've partially got round this by buying a step counter - they used to be called pedometers but I think step counter sounds better. Mine is the Omron X and it actually identifies whether I am ambling or walking at a pace worthy of being considered exercise! It also monitors the amount of exercise I do per week against a recommended figure and counts down so I can see my progress over a four week period.

If you need to exercise more due to blood pressure or cholesterol, you are dieting, or any other reason, and find it difficult to motivate yourself a step counter can be a big help.

I do get a sense of satisfaction in knowing the distance I have walked and see it add up during the week.