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Omron HEM-650
"Omron HEM-650 Auto Inflate Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor"
Wrist blood pressure monitors are portable, accurate and simple to use. They provide a convenient choice for those
who want a second unit for away from home or who have trouble placing a cuff on their arm. The Omron HEM-650 Auto Inflate Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor uses Omron's patented IntelliSense
technology, which inflates the wrist cuff to the ideal level with each use and offers fast, personalized, and
automatic inflation for maximum comfort. No adjustments are required to select an inflation level--especially
convenient for hypertensive users and for people with certain arrhythmia or heart disorders, because their blood
pressure is more likely to fluctuate. With the HEM-650 90-memory recall with date and time stamp, as well as
averaging capabilities for the last three readings, you can track your blood pressure and pulse progress as your
work towards a healthier lifestyle. You'll have additional peace of mind knowing that the HEM-650 comes with a
5-year warranty.
This is the model I personally use. Because the HEM-650 is a wrist cuff model, it is particularly helpful if you have a larger than average
sized arm. The monitor fits those with a wrist size of 5.25 to 8.5 inches, and it ensures easier and more
comfortable use. Note, however, that a wrist monitor does require proper positioning of the device at the heart
level, the HEM-650 make this automatic.(see Pros) It is critical that when using a blood pressure monitor
the cuff is the appropriate size and is properly applied. An ill-fitting cuff or an incorrectly-applied
cuff can result in inaccurate readings. Check with your doctor or the included instructions for the proper
application of the cuff.
Pros
The HEM-650 comes ready to go with a carrying case, and user manual. Even includes 2 "AAA" batteries. Has APS
(Advanced Positioning Sensor) the unit beeps until you position it correctly at the right position in reference to
your heart. I have had no problems with my Omron HEM-650 and I have had it and used it often for over 4 years
now, I was going to get a new one but my old one won't break! It also reads any heart arrhythmias you may
have and display that also - a great feature for me in my battle with Atrial Fibrillation.
Cons
Doesn't come with the Omron Health Management Software as the more expensive models do. This is not a real
big problem as I found a "NO COST" software application that lets me keep track of my readings. (See Blood Pressure
Tracking Software page) My model was still is set to show a high blood pressure cut off number of 130
systolic. (the first number) This may have changed I don't know as I bought my Omron HEM-650 a few years ago.
The doctors (and drug companies no doubt) have now decided that the hypertension level cut off will now be
120 systolic.
Conclusion
I have tried some of the cheap models at the drug store. Omron is ALWAYS more accurate as well as easy to
use. I took my Omron to my doctor's office and compared it's readings with their professional gear -
always the same or very close, my doctor was impressed.
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