New Covid-19 'scare': 10 health gadgets to keep at home

After a drop in the number of cases, there have been reports of new variants of Covid-19 virus making its way in India. There are some medical devices that we can keep handy at home to track key health indicators like SpO2 levels, blood sugar levels and more. This does not mean that we become self-made doctors and do all the diagnosis and medication on our own at home. It is always advisable to consult a certified doctor before beginning any kind of treatment. However, keeping certain medical devices like pulse oximeter, digital IR thermometer, oxygen concentrator and more can help us better deal with coronavirus. Here’s are 10 medical devices you must keep at home which may come in handy.

Pulse Oximeter

Drop in blood oxygen levels is one of the indicators of coronavirus infection. A pulse oximeter can help track the SpO2 levels and know if medical care is required. Price of a pulse oximeter starts at Rs 500 and can go up to Rs 2,500. They are easily available online on Amazon and offline medical stores. 

Digital Blood pressure monitor

A normal Blood pressure ranges between 80-120 mm Hg. While buying a blood monitoring machine, opt for one that shows pulse rate as well. A decent blood pressure monitor may cost Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000.

Digital IR Thermometer

An IR thermometer is a contact less device that can measure body temperature from 1-2inch distance. Being contact less, it can reduce the chances of cross infection. It is available online on Amazon with prices starting as low as Rs 900.

Glucometer to track blood glucose levels

A glucometer may not be required for all. However, it may be essential for a diabetic patient to regularly track blood sugar levels. Price of a glucometer may start at Rs 500. It is easily available online and at offline stores.

Oxygen concentrator

An oxygen concentrator eliminates Nitrogen and other impurities from the air we breathe. When buying an oxygen concentrator, you can consider things like warranty, authenticity and service network. The device is available online on Amazon.

Portable Oxygen canister

Portable oxygen canister can be an essential device to take care of breathlessness in an emergency till one gets proper medical treatment. But this is only a short-term solution and can not be relied on for longer duration.

Nebulizer machine

A nebulizer machine can be used to administer oxygen directly to the lungs in a quick manner. Unlike a steamer, a nebulizer gives cold vapor. The device is easily available online in the price range starting at Rs 1,500.

Steamer

Mainly used to cure cold and cough, a steamer gives hot vapor that reduces congestion and throat irritation. The device can be as affordable as Rs 400 and can be purchased online.

Self-cleaning masks with antibacterial technology

Self-cleaning masks come with an antibacterial-coating. They can be reused and thus help in reduce medical waste, which is  available on amazon.

Respiratory exerciser

Breathing exercise helps reduce anxiety and also improves the overall health of lungs. A lung/respiratory exerciser can increase circulation of hormones in the blood which in turn increase the blood flow to the heart, brain and lungs.