Do you remember how doctors check your body temperature using a digital thermometer as soon as you visit them? Wondering why it is so. Well, you must know that the most vital functions of the body are measured by vital signs and checking the body temperature is one of them. These signs are a rapid way for healthcare experts to determine the general health status of a patient. 

Vital signs are indicators as they reveal how well a body is operating and how it is reacting to an injury or infection. To understand what vital signs are and how they help to monitor your health regularly read until the end. 

What Do You Mean By Vital Signs? 

A patient's physical health can be evaluated by healthcare providers using a set of measurements called vital signs. These consist of blood pressure, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, heart rate, body temperature and others. 

When doctors consider vital signs into consideration, it allows them to assess the state of the patient's health and make adjustments to the treatment plan. It is important to understand that vital signs might differ among people depending on factors like age, physical characteristics, gender and more.

You can also read this: Fever In Kids: What Parents Need To Know

How To Monitor the 7 Vital Signs?

From thermometers to stethoscopes, a range of medical equipment is required to monitor vital signs. To find out how doctors do it, take a look below.

i) Respiratory Rate 

One of the first vital signs to consider is the respiratory rate which is used to calculate how many breaths are taken in a minute. To understand how a breathing rate should be, check below

• For infants, it should be 18 to 30 breaths per minute.
• For children between the ages of six to twelve, it should be between 18 to 60 per minute.
• For adults, it should be 12 to 16 breaths per minute.

Depending on the variations in respiratory rate, it can be an indication of several diseases and ailments. 

ii) Blood Oxygen 

The next vital sign to consider is the amount of oxygen in a person's blood is known as oxygen saturation. In most healthy people, the vital sign's typical value falls between 95% and 100%. If the oxygen saturation falls below 95%, then you may need to get medical help. 

Depending on the age, degree of physical activity and any underlying medical issues, the quantity of oxygen in your blood can change.

iii) Body Temperature 

The quantity of heat in the human body that is measured using thermometers is called body temperature. Your age affects your body temperature on average. When the body is hotter than usual, a body temperature reading is done and it is considered a fever.

iv) Pulse Rate 

Pulse rate is checked to determine the frequency of a person's heartbeat which further provides information about their general health. It is used to assess a person's heart condition, physical fitness, response to certain medical procedures and more.

v) Blood Pressure

To assess the condition of the cardiovascular system, blood pressure rate is checked. It is the pressure that blood puts on the artery and vein walls. Adults typically have a systolic pressure of 120 mm Hg or less (heart in contracting stage), and a diastolic pressure of 80 mm Hg or less (heart in relaxing state).

vi) Blood Glucose Level 

Blood glucose level is also known as blood sugar level and it is a crucial vital marker and a major determinant of general health. It is the quantity of blood sugar that is present at any one moment and provides information about your metabolic status as well as any health problems. To understand the blood glucose level range, check below 

• 70 to 99 mg/dL when fasting 
• Less than 140 mg/dL two hours after eating and 
• 100 to 125 mg/dL before meals.

vii) Weight 

A person's body weight determines the person's health and well-being. It is made up of various parts like lean body mass, fat mass, muscular tissue and more. Understanding your body composition can help you to make critical decisions about general health. 

By monitoring weight changes over time, it can assist in identifying underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the body's weight.

Can You Check the Vital Signs at Home? 

Yes, you can easily check the vital signs at home if you follow the right tips and tricks. Also, you must have medical equipment at home to monitor your health like a digital thermometer. However, if you want to get the best medical supplies or equipment, then you can come to us at Med Guard. We are the leading wholesalers and retailers in the UK. Being in this industry for years, we have been a one-stop solution for many. As you place an order, we will make the delivery the next day anywhere in the nation.