What does a sphygmomanometer measure?

A sphygmomanometer is an instrument specifically designed to measure blood pressure, which is the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels. This device typically consists of an inflatable cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm, which is connected to a pressure gauge. By inflating the cuff, the blood flow is temporarily restricted; as the cuff deflates, the pressure at which blood begins to flow back into the artery is noted. This reading provides two values: systolic pressure, which is the peak pressure during heartbeats, and diastolic pressure, which is the lowest pressure between heartbeats. Therefore, its role is vital in assessing cardiovascular health, making it an essential tool in clinical settings. Understanding blood pressure readings is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as hypertension, and thereby, a sphygmomanometer is a fundamental device in healthcare practice.