Mercury BP Machine: An Overview
Mercury BP machine is a device used to measure the blood pressure of a person. It is also known as a sphygmomanometer. This device is widely used in hospitals, clinics, and even homes to monitor the blood pressure of individuals. Mercury BP machines are known for their accuracy and reliability in measuring blood pressure.
History of Mercury BP Machine
The mercury BP machine was first invented in the late 1800s by Samuel Siegfried Karl Ritter von Basch. It was later modified by Dr. Scipione Riva-Rocci in 1896 and became the standard method for measuring blood pressure. Since then, the mercury BP machine has been widely used in medical settings around the world.
How Does Mercury BP Machine Work?
The mercury BP machine consists of a cuff that is wrapped around the arm, a rubber bulb that inflates the cuff, and a mercury-filled column that measures the blood pressure. When the cuff is inflated, it compresses the arteries in the arm and stops the blood flow. The pressure is gradually released, and the point at which the blood starts flowing again is recorded as the systolic pressure. The point at which the blood flow returns to normal is recorded as the diastolic pressure.
Advantages of Using Mercury BP Machine
Mercury BP machines are preferred over other types of BP machines for several reasons. Firstly, they are highly accurate and reliable in measuring blood pressure. Secondly, they are durable and can last for many years if maintained properly. Thirdly, the readings obtained from mercury BP machines are easy to interpret and understand.
Disadvantages of Using Mercury BP Machine
Despite the advantages of using mercury BP machines, there are also some disadvantages. Firstly, mercury is a toxic substance, and exposure to it can be harmful to health. Secondly, mercury BP machines are bulky and not portable, which makes them difficult to use in remote areas or for home monitoring. Thirdly, mercury BP machines require regular calibration and maintenance to ensure that they remain accurate.
Alternatives to Mercury BP Machine
Due to the disadvantages of using mercury BP machines, there are now alternative devices available for measuring blood pressure. These include digital BP machines, which use oscillometry to measure blood pressure, and aneroid BP machines, which use a dial gauge to measure blood pressure. These alternatives are portable, easy to use, and do not require regular calibration.
Conclusion
Mercury BP machines have been widely used in medical settings for over a century. They are known for their accuracy and reliability in measuring blood pressure. However, due to the toxic nature of mercury and the difficulty of maintenance, alternative devices such as digital and aneroid BP machines are becoming more popular. Whatever device is used, it is important to monitor blood pressure regularly to prevent health complications.
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