Sphygmomanometer is a complex word that refers to a medical device used to measure blood pressure. The spelling of this word may seem complicated, but it is actually quite straightforward when broken down. The first part of the word, "sphygmo," refers to the pulse or heartbeat, while the second part, "mano," means hand. Finally, the suffix "-meter" denotes an instrument for measuring. The pronunciation is spig-moh-muh-nom-i-ter with the stress on the second syllable. Knowing the word's roots and phonetic spelling can help make it easier to remember and understand.
A sphygmomanometer refers to a medical device used for measuring blood pressure. It consists of a cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm or wrist, a pump for inflating the cuff, and a pressure gauge for recording the blood pressure readings. The term is derived from the Greek words "sphygmos," meaning pulse, and "manometer," indicating a device for measuring pressure.
The sphygmomanometer works based on the principle of auscultatory blood pressure measurement, in which the blood flow is temporarily stopped using the cuff, and then gradually released to detect the systolic and diastolic pressures. The cuff is typically inflated through the pump until the flow of blood ceases, then deflated slowly while the healthcare professional listens to the pulse using a stethoscope placed over the brachial artery. The point at which the sounds of blood flow resume marks the systolic pressure, whereas the point at which the sounds disappear again signifies the diastolic pressure.
The sphygmomanometer is crucial for the accurate assessment and monitoring of blood pressure, helping in the diagnosis and management of hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypotension (low blood pressure). It is an essential tool used in various medical settings, including clinics, hospitals, and homes, enabling healthcare professionals and individuals to monitor blood pressure levels and make informed decisions regarding treatment and lifestyle modifications. The sphygmomanometer remains a cornerstone device in cardiovascular health management, contributing to the prevention and control of cardiac diseases.
An instrument for measuring the blood-pressure; see Janeway, Riva-Rocci, Rogers, for illustrations.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word sphygmomanometer derives from the Greek roots sphygmos, meaning pulse, manos, meaning thin, and metron, meaning measure. Therefore, the combined term sphygmomanometer literally translates to pulse thin measure or device to measure the pulse.