Introduction
We get this question more often than you’d think: “Can you trick a blood pressure monitor?”
The short answer: you might be able to alter the reading slightly—but you’re only fooling yourself. In this blog, we’re tackling some common myths, explaining how to get more accurate readings, and sharing tips to extend the life of your device.
Let’s separate fact from fiction.
Can You Trick a Blood Pressure Monitor?
Technically, yes. You can influence readings by:
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Crossing your legs
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Talking during the test
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Holding your breath
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Not placing the cuff at heart level
These can lead to false highs or lows, but the only person at risk is you. Inaccurate readings could delay diagnosis or lead to inappropriate treatment.
Best Practices to Avoid Inaccurate Readings
For trustworthy results:
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Sit still in a quiet room
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Rest for 5 minutes beforehand
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Keep feet flat, back supported
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Avoid smoking, caffeine, or exercise 30 minutes prior
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Take readings at the same time each day
Consistency is key.
What Is a Good Blood Pressure Monitor?
Whether you're wondering “which is a good blood pressure monitor?” or comparing models like Omron BP7100 vs Omron 5 Series, the answer depends on your needs:
| User Type | Recommended Features |
|---|---|
| Seniors | Large display, 1-touch operation |
| Couples | Dual-user memory |
| Tech-lovers | Bluetooth syncing |
| Budget buyers | USB or battery-only models |
| Remote patients | Telehealth connectivity (Bodytrace) |
Your own monitor—with an automatic cuff and clear LCD—ticks most of these boxes.
How to Care for Your Blood Pressure Monitor
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Store it in a clean, dry place
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Wipe the cuff with a damp cloth—never soak it
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Avoid extreme temperatures
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Replace batteries as needed
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Don’t fold the cuff too tightly
💡 Want long-term accuracy? Consider replacing your monitor every 3–5 years, or calibrating it if your brand supports it.
Signs Your Monitor Needs Replacing
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Display fades despite fresh batteries
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Readings vary widely from doctor’s office
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It no longer fits your arm properly
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Buttons become unresponsive
Which Monitor Is Right for You in 2024?
Let’s look at Omron BP7100 and the 5 Series models:
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BP7100 Symbols offer clear visual alerts for heartbeat irregularities, proper positioning, and battery status.
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Omron 5 Series adds more memory and advanced averaging for consistent results.
Both are excellent for home use—and often recommended by physicians.
Bonus: Choosing the Right Size Cuff
Incorrect cuff size is one of the leading causes of inaccurate readings.
| Arm Size | Cuff Size Needed |
|---|---|
| Small (18–22 cm) | Small cuff |
| Medium (22–32 cm) | Standard cuff |
| Large (32–42 cm) | Large cuff |
Always measure your upper arm before buying. A loose or tight cuff will throw off your results.
Final Thoughts
Trying to cheat your blood pressure monitor may give you temporary comfort—but it won’t help your heart in the long run. The goal is long-term health, not perfect numbers.
A modern, automatic blood pressure monitor helps you stay in control of your wellness journey. Use it properly, maintain it well, and you’ll gain valuable insight into one of the most important metrics of your life.
🎯 Browse our best-selling automatic blood pressure monitors—trusted by UK families, easy to use, and built to last. Track your heart health with confidence.