Essential Medical Devices for Home UseEssential Medical Devices for Home Use With the advancement of technology, we have access to an array of health tracking devices that can provide valuable insights into our overall well-being. While not all devices are necessary, certain medical devices can be essential for monitoring key health indicators and facilitating informed discussions with healthcare providers. Blood Pressure Monitor For individuals with hypertension, a blood pressure monitor is crucial. Since office readings can often be inaccurate, home monitoring allows for accurate and frequent measurements, providing essential data for managing this condition. Consumer Reports recommends the Omron Platinum blood pressure monitor for its precision and convenience. Thermometer A thermometer is handy during periods of illness, helping determine the presence and severity of fever. It’s essential to seek medical attention if a fever persists for more than three days or exceeds 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Fitness Tracker Fitness trackers offer valuable insights into physical activity levels and heart rate fluctuations. They can help individuals track their progress towards fitness goals and monitor cardiovascular health. Bathroom Scale While often overlooked, a bathroom scale can be a useful medical device. For patients with heart failure, sudden weight changes can indicate fluid retention or worsening of their condition. Weight loss can also signal disease progression. Other Considerations Checkups: Individuals over 50 years of age, particularly those on medications or with chronic conditions, should undergo annual checkups to proactively address any health concerns. Communication: It’s essential to share data collected from these devices with healthcare providers. Open communication about health parameters can empower patients and facilitate informed decision-making.
INDIANAPOLIS (CONSUMER REPORTS) — Data, data and more data! It seems like we can measure everything these days – and our health is no different. From our daily steps to our body fat percentage – there’s a device for everything. And while we don’t need all health gadgets, some medical devices can be essential. Consumer Reports explains which ones we should consider.
Having a few medical devices on hand can help you keep track of some basic health records and gain important information that you can discuss with your healthcare provider. These tools can’t replace a trusted doctor, but they can give you more data about your health between doctor visits.
a blood pressure monitor is a must for anyone with high blood pressure, especially since office blood pressure readings are often inaccurate. Because nearly half of adults in the US have hypertension and less than a quarter have the condition under control, a blood pressure monitor can provide users with vital data right from their home.
Consumer Reports’ top-rated home blood pressure monitor was the Omron Platinum for its accuracy and convenience. The Omron Silver performed similarly to the top pick, but can only record data for one user.
Then hold a thermometerHandy for those moments when you don’t feel well. It is useful to know whether a fever has developed and how high it is. – Consult your doctor if the fever lasts more than three days or rises above 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Anyone who wants to know more about how much exercise he or she is actually getting can take a fitness tracker. Many trackers can track steps and activity levels, as well as monitor changes in heart rate.
Even though it may not seem like it, a bathroom scale can also be an essential medical device. It is especially important if you have heart failure, because even small changes in weight can be an important warning sign of related problems such as fluid retention.
Unexpected weight loss in people with heart failure can also be a sign that the condition has progressed. In either case, notify your doctor.
And remember: If you are 50 years or older, especially if you are taking medications or have a chronic condition such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes, it is important to have annual checkups.
