Expert Advice on Medical Supplies and Equipment

“Varicose Veins Management & Treatment: Learn more about Treatment Methods and Compression Hose, Stockings & Socks”
 

Varicose Veins Overview
Because varicose veins occur just beneath the skin’s surface, they are often visible to the eye. These veins may look red, purple or blue. They often bulge above the skin surface. Although varicose veins are visually distracting, in most cases, they are not dangerous. Varicose veins, however, can be a sign of valvular malfunction in the deeper more critical veins. Insufficient blood flow and an inefficient circulatory system can lead to more serious complications.
Faulty Valves inside Veins cause Varicosities
Inside veins there are valves. Valves are flaps that open and close to promote blood flow toward the heart. When valves are faulty, blood pools, causing varicose veins.

Vascular Disease and Compression Therapy
Vascular surgeons and primary care physicians often prescribe compression stockings, socks and hose to treat varicosities. Graduated compression hose are designed to balance the flow of fluid into and out of limbs to increase blood flow by placing the greatest amount of compression on the areas furthest from the heart. This pressure promotes good circulation by directing blood flow toward the heart. Quite simply, the use of compression reduces fluid congestion and the backward flow caused by venous disease.

Through the use of compression hose or therapeutic stockings, varicose veins can be managed and the progression of disease is slowed. Wearing compression hose and socks is critical in the treatment of vascular disease and limb health.
Compression and Edema (swelling)
As discussed, the pressure of gradient compression acts to reverse gravitational pull and vascular insufficiencies, which can promote blood pooling and swelling (edema). Swelling in the lower extremities is a sign of vascular insufficiencies and an indication that compression may be needed. If ignored, poor circulation, swelling and insufficient blood flow can result in damage to the vascular system.

Therapeutic Hose & Tired Aching Legs
By improving circulation, the wearing of therapeutic hose can prevent both the aching and swelling associated with poor blood flow and varicosities. Not wearing appropriate support can make legs ache and feel tired. Beyond making legs feel better, graduated compression, also known as gradient compression hose, promote skin and muscle health.
Sclerotherapy and Phlebectomy
Years ago, vascular surgeons commonly removed varicose veins through a process known as stripping. Today, there are numerous viable outpatient procedures available to individuals with varicose veins. Two of the most common treatments are known as Sclerotherapy and Phlebectomy. Sclerotherapy and Phlebectomy treatments are inexpensive and safe. They can be performed in as little as an hour and they often relieve symptoms, as well as provide cosmetic benefits to individuals suffering from vascular disease.
 

Manufacturers of Compression Products
There are many manufacturers of compression products. Bell-Horn, Jobst, Sigvaris and Juzo are among some of the largest manufacturers of compression hose stockings and socks. Each manufacturer makes quality products. Consumers tend to gravitate to one manufacturer over others because of style variations, specific features, fit or price.
Bell-Horn has some of the most cost effective products and manufactures compression hose and socks in most strengths. Jobst has one of the most expansive lines. Jobst is a leader in custom products and maternity hose. Some people prefer Juzo silver anti-microbial products and sleeves. Others like Sigvaris’s fit. Personal preferences vary.
Compression Strength
Compression hose are manufactured in various strengths. Mild, medium and severe strengths are created to treat the various levels and different types of vascular disease. The following descriptions break down compression strengths into three easy-to-remember categories.

Mild: Compression 8-15 mmHg
–Compression strengths of 8-15 mm Hg are referred to as mild strength. These retail grade strength hose provide mild relief for tired aching legs and feet.
–Some diabetic socks are designed with mild strength compressive materials to improve circulation in the lower extremities and feet.
–Diabetic socks like Jobst’s Sensi-Foot socks are uniquely designed to protect sensitive feet.
 

Medium: Compression 15-20mmHg
–Compression hose with the compression strength of 15-20mmHg are often recommended for women who are pregnant to support circulatory health and help in the prevention of varicose veins. They are also commonly used as tool in the prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis D.V.T.
–During pregnancy, additional strain on the vascular system is common in the last trimester. BSN Jobst is also a leading supplier of maternity stockings and hose.
–Medical doctors and vascular surgeons most commonly prescribe15-20 mmHg or 20-30 mmHg stockings or socks to prevent or treat embolisms, also known as blood clots. These hose are referred to as anti-embolism hose. Many medical professionals refer to these stockings as T.E.D.s. Anti-embolism hose are made by many different manufacturers.
–As embolisms can be life threatening if not treated, the wearing of anti-embolism hose or socks is particularly important to individuals who are non-ambulatory, as they help ensure healthy blood flow.
Medium Compression 20-30mmHg
Medium Compression 20-30 mmHg hose are medical strength hose designed to treat individuals with various diseases, including venous insufficiencies, peripheral vascular disease and some deep vein thromboses.

Severe Compression 30-40+
Severe strengths of compression are prescribed less frequently than other strengths. Stronger compression strengths are designed for individuals with more severe needs.
–Stronger compression socks can be challenging to don and wear. Individuals with arthritis and flexibility issues often have the most difficult time putting on compression apparel.
–Higher strength compression hose, sleeves and socks are utilized for individuals with complex needs, who are under the care and ongoing supervision of a medical professional.

Compression for Travel
Wearing compression hose can make an enormous difference in the health and well-being of individuals, who stand on their feet for long periods of time or who travel. This is particularly important to individuals who are sitting or standing motionless for extended periods of time in airports, in cars or on planes. The reason why compressive travel socks are important to individuals who travel on planes and in cars for extended periods of time to avoid swelling, particularly in the ankles and feet. The wearing of compressive socks can also minimize the risk of embolisms.

Compression After Surgery
Compression is also important to individuals who undergo surgery. The reason for this is to keep pressure on the circulatory system while patients are less mobile. In particular, when muscles are motionless, less blood flow occurs.
Another important reason to wear compression products has to do with the health of the lymphatic system. When the lymphatic and circulatory systems are damaged, compression places external pressure on areas of need to improve blood flow by gently massaging the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
An additional reason to wear compression for certain types of surgery is that compression promotes healing, by encouraging blood flow and distribution of oxygen to areas of damage and need.

Compression, Wound Care & Wraps
Compression is important in the treatment of certain types of swelling ulcers and wounds. Wound care specialists are trained to care for specific types of skin ulcers with compressive wrap products like Comprilan . Comprilan and other generic compressive wrap products are also important in the care and treatment of other conditions like lymphedema.
Donning Tools
There are many different types of donning tools. The most popular tool is the sock aid. Compression sock aids assist individuals in sliding socks onto their legs and feet. There are many different designs and types of sock assists. Each manufacturer seems to favor their own sock donning device.
Rubber gloves are also helpful in donning socks and stockings, because they can be used to gently massage compression hose into position. Jobst makes a wonderful donning glove . Dish gloves are also useful in donning compression hose. After compression is over the foot and ankle areas, many people with arthritic conditions use common dish gloves to massage stockings into position, so as to avoid pulling and potentially tearing fabric. The benefit of using common dishwashing gloves is that they are inexpensive and easy to find.
Compression adhesives are another popular item. Adhesives are water soluble substances that adhere to the leg, so that individuals who wear items like thigh high stockings can do so without wearing a garter belt. The most popular adhesive product is It-stays.

Compression Fitting
In order to assure an accurate fit, individuals should be measured for compression first thing in the morning after getting out of bed, as swelling increases throughout the course of a day. In measuring for proper fit of socks individuals need to know the circumference of their ankles, calves and sometimes shoe size. A fitter should take measurements in the fullest parts of the ankle and calf for over-the-counter brands. Length is also important. Many brands come in tall, regular and short lengths. Measurements are then compared to the sizing charts on manufacturers’boxes.

Bell-Horn and manufacturers like Jobst, Juzo and Sigvaris put easy–to-read sizing charts on the outside of their retail boxes to make it easy for individuals to determine their size or fit. Although individuals can use string and a ruler to determine measurement, accurate fitting for compression socks may require the use of a measuring tape.
Compression Fitting Tips
In order to assure an accurate fit, individuals should be measured for compression first thing in the morning after getting out of bed, as swelling increases throughout the course of a day.
Bell-Horn and manufacturers like Jobst, Juzo and Sigvaris put easy–to-read sizing charts on the outside of their retail boxes to make it easy for individuals to determine their size or fit. Medical Health Supply Inc. has easy –to-read sizing charts for Jobst and Bell-Horn online.
As mentioned, measuring for proper fit of socks requires that individuals know the circumference of their ankles, calves and sometimes shoe size. Measurements are then compared to the sizing charts on manufacturer’s boxes. If an individual does not find their measurements on any over-the-counter brand, he or she may require a specialty product.
Care and Maintenance of Compression Products
If properly maintained, compression socks hold their compression for a period of 4-6 months. One should use mild soap or washing solution like Jolastic to wash compression products and purchase one pair to wear and one pair to wash. On humid days, products may not dry overnight. It is important to wear hose every day.
It is easy to tell when compression products should be replaced when the elasticity is gone and they are no longer snug. Usually people recognize that compression hose are too easy to slip on and off. This means the elasticity may be gone and it is time for a new pair of hose.

Online Sizing Charts
To view sizing charts for Jobst and Bell-Horn products, visit Medical Health Supply. To learn more about compression, vascular disease and other products, visit  more articles and videos on the Medical Health Supply Guide at Medical Health Supply, Inc. There are training videos, articles and more.

Compression Highlights

–Compression hose help maintain circulatory system heath. They also help individuals combat the fatigue associated with tired aching legs.
–Compression hose can be attractive. They come in many styles and sizes, and last 4-6 months if properly maintained.
–All strengths of over-the-counter compression hose are provided at discounted prices online. This is important to know because most insurance companies do not cover most compression strengths. A 5% off coupon can be attained from the Medical Health Supply Guide blog.
–Always seek professional advice when purchasing medical products, services or equipment. Information contained herein is provided for training purposes only. For more information on compression products such as stockings, hose and socks consult a physician.
–Graduated compression is also discussed in the resource section of the data base at blog.medicalhealthsupply.com

Common Questions and Answers
What do I do if my size and strength is not available over-the-counter?
In some cases, compression products are specifically tailored for individuals with special needs. If over–the-counter socks are unavailable, custom products can be ordered. Purchasing, ordering and getting fitted for custom compression garments can be time consuming and expensive.
What do I do if my socks roll?
This could be an indication that your socks do not fit properly. It may also indicate that you may need a specialized product, or a compression adhesive. Socks should not roll. Each time a sock roles, it increases the compression on the area where the compression has doubled-up. This could actually hurt circulation and constrain blood flow. Socks should never role.
I have trouble putting on compression hose?
It takes a bit of practice. Place the toe of your sock onto your foot and don’t roll the edge up. Just gently massage the socks or hose up your leg. Some people crunch compression hose up like they are putting on stockings. This makes it very difficult to get them on. If you are having difficulty, you may want to order a sock aid.
What does mmHg stand for?

MmHg is a medical abbreviation for the term Millimeters of Mercury. MmHg is a standard unit of measurement used to express compression strength within the medical community.
For more questions and answers ask questions or comment at the blog at http://blog.medicalhealthsupply.com.

 Visit http://www.medicalhealthsupply.com
   to learn more about medical conditions, vascular disease and compression.  Individual needs and requirements may vary. Be sure to speak to your pharmacist, a medical professional, or a physician if you have medical concerns or questions. This presentation should not be utilized for self-diagnosis purposes and is provided for educational purposes only.
Medical Health Supply, Inc. is a New York (N.Y.) based company. Information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and should not be utilized for self-diagnosis. If you have questions or concerns about compression and varicose veins, contact a medical professional.
© 2010 Medical Health Supply, Inc. A metropolitan Rochester, New York (NY) based company.

Some studies link autism to vaccines, environmental toxins, and genetic factors. The question of what causes autism is controversial and complex. Parents and professionals are passionate about this issue, and with increased attention and awareness, new studies and theories emerge with regularity. Most experts agree that the causes of autism are linked to complex genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Recent studies show a strong correlation between exposure to environmental toxins to  fetuses with autism.
According to a study published by Dr Landrigan, Professor of Pediatrics at Mt. Sinai, “ If babies are exposed in the womb or shortly after birth to chemicals that interfere with brain development, the consequences last a lifetime.”
Children exposed to specific toxins during, the first trimester in the womb, have a disproportionate occurrence of neurological disorders such as autism.  “The New York Times”, in an article published on February 24, 2010, mentions medications such as; valproic acid, methal mercury, lead, ethyl alcohol as being culprits.
According to Dr. Manny, Managing Editor of Health.com, phalates, which are commonly found in items like hairspray, make-up and plastics, are associated with risk factors. He further mentions valproic acid (a commonly prescribed seizure medicine prescribed to pregnant women with seizure disorders) as increasing risk factors. On February 27, 2010, he mentions “Patients exposed to valproic acid during the first trimester of pregnancy, have an 11% increase in autism.”
The correlation of environmental toxins and neurological disorders cannot be ignored. Some argue that the increasing rate of neurological disorders that we are experiencing in the  U.S. is due to increased awareness and better diagnosis techniques. Environmental toxins and genetic factors are becoming increasingly apparent. 

For More information on Autism and other disabilities visit http://www.medicalhealthsupply.com

Aspirin can reduce heart attach risks and help prevent certain types of cancer. Because aspirin causes blood thinning and reduces inflammation, it has many beneficial effects. An aspirin a day, not only keeps the doctor away, but it may save your life.

Aspirin is well-known for reducing aches and pains.  It has also has saved the lives of individuals who experience heart problems. By thinning blood, aspirin can help prevent damage to the heart muscle during a heart attack. 

Did you know that Aspirin also reduces inflammation which can increase the risk factors of certain types of cancer? According to” The Journal of Clinical Oncology”, “Among women living at least 1 year after a breast cancer diagnosis, aspirin use was associated with a decreased risk of distant recurrence and breast cancer death.”   This is very good news for breast cancer survivors.

Always consult your pharmacist or a medical expert when taking supplements.  Aspirin does have side effects which can be detrimental.  Aspirin can reduce pain and aches, but many of its benefits are helpful in treating certain types of disease.

For more information on Medical Conditions and products visit us at http://www.medicalhealthsupply.com

In 1910, Americans received an average of about 9 hours of sleep per day.  In the year 2000, Americans acquired an average of 7 hours of sleep a night.  In 2010, Americans receive even less sleep.  Estimates indicate that American get just over an average of about 6 hours of sleep per night. 

 Lack of sleep impacts hormone levels.  The hormone leptin significantly impacts appetite. Reduction in leptin levels impacts appetite which leads to weight gain.  Eating more contributes to weight gain and obesity.  Lack of sleep also leads to higher cholesterol levels which can lead to clogged arteries.

By getting an additional hour of sleep, estimates indicate that individuals can reduce the risk of clogged arteries by as much as 33 percent. Lack of sleep also has other detrimental side effects  which  influence overall health and well-being. “Getting an additional hour of sleep can literally save your life.” 

Turn off the T.V. at night. Lower the shades and purchase a comfortable mattress.  Reduce alcohol consumption, food intake and caffeine input .  Get a good night sleep.  Your health and well-being are depending on it. For more information on medical conditions and medical supplies,  visit us at http://www.medicalhealthsupply.com

Jack W. O’Leary, former President of a Fortune 500 company in the U.S., observes that previous Congresses have already committed the entire Federal Annual Revenue for the next Federal Fiscal Year. The revenues (or more correctly taxes) have been committed to Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, interest on debt and other entitlement programs.

Since the revenue for this year is already committed, new spending has to be borrowed further increasing the national debt. This will subsequently increase interest payments for future years. This will continue the spiral of borrowing and spending.

In 1912, Argentina was the sixth richest country in the world. They engaged in a similar borrowing and spending cycle and soon become a banana republic. Argentina has remained in this condition for 100 years.

By: Jack W. O’Leary
Rochester, N.Y.

Reported by: Mary Clare Lyons
Pompano Beach, Florida

On Monday January 25^th, “USA Today” released the results of the quarterly survey of 50 economists.  According to the economists’ median estimate, President Obama’s $787 billion stimulus package saved 1.2 million jobs. Without the 1.2 million jobs, 10% December unemployment rate would have been 10.8%.

What “USA Today” neglected to mention is that if you divide the $787 billion by 1.2 million the cost per job saved equals $655,000.  It is a matter of simple math.

By Jack W. O’Leary

Rochester, N.Y.

Jack W. O’Leary is a former President of a Fortune 500 Company in Michigan.  For the past 10+ years, he has been supplying and building hospitals in Kenya.

Like most people, I was interested in what congress was proposing in the healthcare reform bill. Some weeks ago, I learned that one of the ways that Congress intended to pay for reforms was to add additional taxes onto the medical equipment manufacturers. This sounded like a great idea to many people. After all, it is illegal to charge tax to consumers of medical appliances in cases where the government pays for equipment through reimbursements.
Last year, the government sliced 10% off Medicare across the board. This 10% hurt distributors. A tax on equipment and appliance manufacturers would wound manufacturers. In the end, the only way to make up the difference would have been to cheapen quality of goods because government places price caps on reimbursements.
I did not understand the gravity of the situation until I heard Malachi Mixon, President of Invacare speak about what the taxes would have done to Invare. Invare is a quality manufacturer of medical equipment located in Lorain, Ohio. He estimated the new tax would have cost his company between 12-14 million dollars. This amount of money is more than Invacare’s profit and R & D combined.
I pondered what equipment manufacturers would do if the bill passed through Congress. I wondered if companies like Invacare would have had to cut back on employees? They have about 6000 employees? After hearing about the bill, he suspended 401K contributions to employees.
Invacare is a good company and is currently the largest manufacturer of goods in Lorain County. They seem to be a well managed producer of quality products. I wondered how many other American equipment manufacturers would have had to go out of business if the bill had passed in its current state?

To learn more visit us at http://blog.medicalhealthsupply.com . To order products from quality manufacturers at discounted prices,  visit us at http://www.medicalhealthsupply.com.

The U.S. Military, Red Cross and U.N. are playing an important role in saving tens of thousands of lives in Haiti thereafter,  private sector charities and organizations will play an important role.

Estimates predict that over 3 million people will be affected by the earthquake in Haiti. It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of people are dead. More have lost their homes. One must have deep respect for the individuals that serve as volunteers, medical professionals, peace keepers, and the members of U.S. military that are providing relief. Private charities will play an increasingly more important role in the future well-being of the people of Haiti.

The U.S. Military and many other American organizations quickly swung into action to organize and assist the people in need when the disaster in Haiti occurred. These organizations are uniquely trained, organized and qualified to respond quickly and take action when humanitarian tragedies occur.

This reality was demonstrated when the troops on the ground in Haiti took control of the airport to expedite the distribution of equipment and supplies. While the U.S. military secured the airport, the U.N. sent patrols to secure the peace in the streets. The Red Cross also became a major player in the call for relief. This assistance and commitment broadens as many other organizations, like Naval Units, UNICEF, Catholic Relief Services, CARE, IMEC, Samaritans Purse, and The Gates Foundation become involved.

Yesterday, the Navy’s “Comfort”, a hospital ship which supports 12 operating rooms and 200 beds, sped toward Haiti.  In the face of the aftermath of an earthquake, more assistance will soon be required, because infectious diseases are likely to spread.

The immediate response organizations involve securing supply chains, maintaining order and getting food, shelter, clean water, medical equipment and supplies help to the people of Haiti. After the immediate needs are addressed, the next risk factors involve the spread of sickness and disease, like dysentery, cholera, typhoid, malaria, dengue fever, e. coli and more.

In the wake of this human tragedy other risks occur because of unsanitary conditions and lack of infrastructure. This is where Samaritans Purse, The Red Cross and organizations like IMEC and Intervol get involved. Segments of these organizations provide expertise, support, supplies and medical equipment that are necessary in the rebuilding process. Often donations from large American corporations are important to the successes of these organizations.

The initial wave of help will save tens of thousands of lives.  We owe a great deal of gratitude towards the military organizations and volunteers who are donating their services and providing economic means to save lives. Individuals, who wish to continue to donate their time or economic resources, are advised to work through organizations and groups with contacts and experience in the area of humanitarian relief. A list of a ten such organizations are provided herein.

Ten Organizations Involved in Global Relief Programs

1)       The American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross is currently in Haiti working on relief. Donations are welcome

Contact: By phone at 1800 RED CROSS,   or  Text message donations to 90999 and text  ”HAITI” to donate $10.00 or more. Contact: www.redcross.org

2)       Catholic Relief Services

Catholic Relief Service’s partners are moving food, water and medical supplies into Haiti. Donations appreciated.

Contact: www.CRS.org

3)       CARE

Care has approximately 140 people on the ground serving people of Haiti. CARE is providing immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation. Donations can be made on the web.

Contact: www.care.org

4)        The Gates Foundation

The Gates foundation website provides additional information about Haiti and Global initiatives. The Gates foundation awarded two grants to support the people of Haiti. Grants have been awarded to Catholic Relief Services and Partners in Health to support efforts in Haiti.  For more information visit the Gates foundation on the web. Contact: www.gatesfoundation.org

5)       International Medical Equipment Cooperative (IMEC)

IMEC coordinates 100s of volunteers to package and ship entire hospital suites of Medical Equipment and Supplies to equip hospitals and infirmaries at no cost to the receiving country.  Learn about IMEC’s Sheparding program on the web.

Contact: By Phone at 987-557-5510, or on the web at www.imecamerica.org

6)       Intervol  “A Humanitarian Success Story”

Gathers and recycles equipment and supplies to ship to third world countries.

Intervol  organizes  volunteer medical professions to donate services in areas of need. Intervol has ongoing needs for donations to collect, sort and distribute goods.

Contact:  By Phone at 585-922-5810, or on the web at www.Intervol.org

7)       Samaratan’s Purse

Samaratan’s Purse mobilizes volunteers and  professionals to donate services for disaster relief, community development and more.  

Contact: By Phone at 1800-528-1960, or on the web at  www.samaritanspurse.org 

8)       Partners in Health(PIH)

PIH has worked in Haiti for over 20 years. Recently PIH received a donation from The Gates Foundation.   Donations appreciated.

Contact: www.PIH.org

9)       UNICEF

Status: Provides emergency aid which is airlifted to ensure the health and safety of children at risk.

Contact: www.unicef.org

 10)   World Vision

World Vision has worked 30 years in Haiti. World Vision has about a staff in Haiti. They have been delivering hygiene kits, clothes, food and water.

Contact: www.worldvision.org

For more information on medical supplies and medical conditions visit http://www.medicalhealthsupply.com or the Medical Health Supply Guide on the web at  http://blog.medicalhealthsupply.com.  To view current photographs of Haiti, follow this link to American Red Cross photographs.

Prior to the earthquake in Haiti, in response to a negative comment on our military, we placed a comment on a personal Face Book.  We are somewhat defensive of those that serve us as members of the Navy, Army, Air Force and Marines at Medical Health Supply.  We commented on how Americans are willing to be generous and fight in the face of adversity. We commented on how the U.S. Military and other organizations swung in to action to organize and assist the people of Haiti.
Some of us at Medical Health Supply, Inc. have spent a great deal of time money in third world countries, building hospitals, shipping medical supplies and equipment and more.   The tragedy in Haiti is just unfolding.  Without clean water, medical supplies medical equipment, and appropriate medical staff and services, infectious disease will spread. 
Today, I noticed that the Navy’s “Comfort”, a hospital ship which supports 12 operating rooms and 200 beds, is heading toward Haiti.  In the face of the aftermath of an earth quake, infectious disease is apt to spread.  Cholera, typhoid, malaria, dengue fever, e. coli and more may be following in the wake of this human tragedy. 
It gives me some “Comfort” to know that the Navy and more support is on the way.
-Mary Clare

We will keep you posted on our trips and adventures along the way.  Currently, employees at  Medical Health Supply, Inc. are working on projects in Kenya.  To learn more about our projects visit us at http://blog.medicalehealthsupply.com .  To order products visit us at http://www.medicalhealthsupply.com

High Blood Pressure “The Silent Killer”

About one in four American adults suffers from high blood pressure. High Blood Pressure (HBP) is known as the “silent killer” because there are no obvious signs or symptoms. People generally do not know that they have a problem. They general find out about it through routine screening, or when an illness occurs. The reason to be concerned about High Blood Pressure is that it can damage vital organs and cause serious illness if undiagnosed or untreated.

Monitoring and checking blood pressure is important because undetected, High Blood Pressure can lead to vision loss, heart and artery disease, stroke, kidney failure, erectile dysfunction and even death. The American Health Association recommends monitoring blood pressure through healthcare professions. Regular physicals are important for monitoring blood pressure. When high blood pressure is detected, the American Heart Association recommends more frequent blood pressure monitoring and screening .

There are many home health care blood pressure monitoring devices available. The American Heart Association recommends a use of a cuff style blood pressure device that fits accurately. Blood pressure cuffs come in different sizes, and a cuff for a child is a different size than a cuff that is suited for an adult. The finger style blood pressure monitors are very convenient; however, many of the finger style monitors are less accurate.

The best way to prevent high blood pressure is to live a healthy life style. This means to; 1) exercise regularly, 2) maintain a healthy weight, 3) eat healthfully, and 4) avoid unhealthy habits like excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.

Diet and exercise are important to maintaining low blood pressure. Obesity is a major contributor to high blood pressure. Even a small weight loss or gain can greatly affect blood pressure. If living a healthy lifestyle is not enough to maintain low blood pressure, many physicians will prescribe medication.

For more information on high blood pressure, its symptoms, risks and treatments, contact your physician or a trained medical professional. The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. This information should not be utilized for self-diagnosis purposes. Contact a medical expert if you have concerns, and additional questions
To read more about the most common medical conditions in America, view the 30 top medical health conditions at;  http://www.medicalhealthsupply.com. In the Shop by Medical Condition section.