With the recent risks around Covid 19, individuals are finding themselves picking up personal testing devices with greater frequency. While these can potentially help with tracking personal health, it is important to make sure that you choose a device that is right for you and properly validated.
So, why exactly are people taking the time to pick them up and what should you check before making a purchase?
What are the most Popular Devices
When it comes to monitoring personal health, two devices lead the charge – blood pulse oximeters and pressure cuffs. These allow you to check the level of blood oxygen in your blood and provide a regular update on your blood pressure at regular intervals throughout the day.
Out of the two, pulse oximeters are the most popular choice. Painless and highly efficient, these are attached to your finger and measure a beam of light to provide an accurate reading of your blood oxygen level – with many devices also letting you take a measure of your pulse.
These potentially allow you to get an early warning about asymptomatically contracting Covid 19 as blood oxygen levels have been reported to drop dramatically in many cases.
For those with underlying conditions, picking up a reusable pressure cuff allows them to track their recovery and ensure that any cardiovascular issues are not likely to be triggered.
What should you Check
While these items are now publicly available, it is essential that buyers take time to ask questions before picking up or relying on a device. These include, but are not limited to checking-
Your vendor: If you are buying a device to monitor your personal health, it is vital that it is from a reliable and verified source. If you are unable to track the history of the product or be guaranteed about its warranty, it is worth thinking twice about the purpose.
Seeking out support from companies like Sensoronics or other market leaders can help ensure that you end up with a device that is reliable and fit for purpose when it truly matters most.
Your Awareness: If you have bought a device for personal use, it is essential that you take time to fully understand how the device works, the steps involved in taking a reading, and any potential issues that you are trying to keep an eye on. While there are many tutorials available online, it is well worth asking a professional practitioner for help or guidance if you are unsure or not confident about how to proceed.
Your Anxiety: Undertaking medical care can be stressful at any time, especially during a time of social upheaval or during a health crisis. If you are struggling with your anxiety or mental health, take some time to seek out help from appropriate bodies during this difficult time.
Remember to check and double check any reading and, if you are concerned, a healthcare practitioner is never more than a telephone call away.
