Although I write a lot about must-have face creams for dreaded wrinkles, lotions for making stubborn cellulite less noticeable, and the latest trendy lipstick, I know that true beauty comes from an active lifestyle, proper nutrition, and attention to general health. That’s why I recently got an Ozeri Cardiotech BP5K Voice-Guided Blood Pressure Monitor!
Although historically my blood pressure has always been quite low, it has consistently increased in the past few years. Age and a more sedentary lifestyle are the most likely contributors. In addition, like many of you, I am subjected to stress coming from all directions – from teenaged children, to work issues, to adjusting to the “new normal” of our economy.
But, a rise in blood pressure is not the type of health issue you can ignore! According to the most recent statistics available from the American Heart Association, high blood pressure was listed as a primary or contributing factor in about 348,102 U.S. deaths in 2009. So, keeping track of my blood pressure just moved to the top of my “Top Ways to Stay Healthy List!”
Having an Ozeri Cardiotech BP5K Voice-Guided Blood Pressure Monitor at home means that I can check my blood pressure as many times a day as I like. According to Samuel J. Mann, M.D., a professor of clinical medicine at New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical Center, and author of Hypertension and You, “The more measurements you do, the more accurate a reading you get.”
Plus, for those (like me) who suffer from a stress-induced rise in blood pressure upon arriving at the doctor’s office, “At-home blood pressure monitoring is a much better indicator than a blood pressure reading at the doctor’s. If your systolic pressure is 180 at the doctor’s office but 120 at home, you’re at only a slightly increased risk of sustained hypertension. But if it’s 120 at the doctor’s office and consistently 180 at home, you’re definitely at higher risk,” explains Mann.
The Ozeri Cardiotech BP5K Voice-Guided Blood Pressure Monitor is so easy to use – it literally does all of the work for you. Attach to your wrist using the Velcro band, push the start button, and listen for the instructions. It’s that simple.
Interpreting a reading is also easy. The digital display appears once you are done and you also receive a verbal confirmation of your blood pressure status, from “Your blood pressure is ideal” to “Your blood pressure indicates moderate hypertension.”
The technology even allows you to store 180 blood pressure readings (90 readings x 2 different users) with date and time recordings. So, if you are concerned about your numbers, you can now share real data collected over time with your doctor.
If your readings are just a little higher than you’d like, however, here are some proven ways to reduce your blood pressure without resorting to medication:
- Lose weight
- Start to exercise regularly
- Eat healthier, especially limiting salt
- Reduce alcohol intake
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
- Cool it on the caffeine
- Reduce stress
- Meditate
Since blood pressure readings can vary widely according to the time of day, be advised that it’s normal for the numbers to be higher in the morning than in the evening. But, if you consistently get elevated readings (higher than 130/80), especially at night, consult your doctor.
Left untreated, high blood pressure can cause artery damage and narrowing, aneurysm, coronary artery disease, transient ischemic attack (mini stroke), stroke, cognitive impairment, kidney failure, eye blood vessel damage, heart attack, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. If your readings are in the danger zone, it’s imperative that you contact your physician.
Ozeri Cardiotech BP5K Voice-Guided Blood Pressure Monitor is available at fine retailers nationwide. To learn more, visit Ozeri.
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PHOTO: Used with permission by Ozeri.
DISCLAIMER: I received a sample of the Ozeri Cardiotech BP5K Voice-Guided Blood Pressure Monitor in order to fully evaluate the product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
Named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone, Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style. From must-have fashion and accessories, to gorgeous gardens, stunning interiors, plus the latest products and ideas for chic parties, you’ll find it here. Editor Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!