This is called masked high blood pressure. Your blood pressure tends to be lower when measured at a provider’s office.Providers can detect this type of high blood pressure by reviewing readings from the office and from other places. “White coat hypertension” refers to blood pressure readings that are higher in a doctor’s office than readings at home or in a pharmacy.
If it is the first time your provider has measured your blood pressure, you may have readings taken on both arms.Įven if you do prepare, your blood pressure reading may not be accurate for other reasons.Rest your arm on a table so it is supported and at the level of your heart.Do not talk while you are relaxing or during the test.Make sure your feet are flat on the floor.For at least 5 minutes before the test, sit in a chair and relax.Do not exercise, drink coffee, or smoke cigarettes for 30 minutes before the test.Prepare for the test by following a few simple steps.
The provider uses a gauge, stethoscope, or electronic sensor and a blood pressure cuff to measure your blood pressure. To learn more about systolic and diastolic pressure, visit How the Heart Works.Ī blood pressure test is easy and painless and can be done in the provider’s office or clinic. These numbers are measures of pressure in mm HG (millimeters of mercury). The reading is made up of two numbers, the systolic number and the diastolic number. Your health care provider will use a blood pressure test to see if you have higher-than-normal blood pressure readings. Video about the importance of getting your blood pressure checked regularly and understanding what your numbers mean so you can better manage your heart disease risk.
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