Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM)
Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is one of the latest and most innovative solutions for assessing your blood pressure while you go about your daily routine. The expert physicians at CareFirst Wellness Associates, use ABPM to investigate your blood pressure comprehensively and to determine the best possible treatment solution for your needs. Learn more about ABPM services by booking a consultation online or over the phone.
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In most cases, your doctor checks your blood pressure every single time you come into the office. The issue with these types of readings is that they’re not always an accurate snapshot of your actual blood pressure. This is because it’s normal to experience a spike in your heart rate, and thus blood pressure, simply because being in a doctor’s office can be stressful, a condition known as “white coat hypertension.”
To get a better analysis of your real blood pressure readings, your doctor may suggest an ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) evaluation. This simple test gathers your blood pressure readings throughout the day while you’re going about your normal activities, which can provide more accurate results about your blood pressure.
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ABPM involves wearing a specialized blood pressure cuff around your arm for an extended period of time, usually 24-48 hours. This cuff is attached to a small device that you wear on your belt or on your pocket. As you sleep, go to work, and perform daily tasks, the ABPM cuff reads your blood pressure regularly, usually every 15-30 minutes.
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Your ABPM results provide your dedicated physician at CareFirst Wellness Associates with a report of your blood pressure readings, so they can determine if you do have high blood pressure and if so, what the best course of treatment may be. In general, your doctor may determine that you have hypertension if your:
Systolic blood pressure averages greater than 135 mmHg in 24 hours
Diastolic blood pressure averages more than 80 mmHg in 24 hours
Your physician also evaluates your blood pressure readings during periods of activity and rest. Systolic blood pressure that averages more than 140 mmHg, or diastolic blood pressure that averages greater than 90 mmHg while you’re awake could indicate high blood pressure.
Systolic averages more than 124 mmHg, or diastolic averages greater than 75 mmHg while you’re sleeping can also be problematic. Once your physician at CareFirst Wellness Associates gathers your ABPM results, they can work with you to find treatments and counsel you on lifestyle changes you need to make to keep your heart healthy.
Find out if ABPM is right for you by booking an exam at CareFirst Wellness Associates. Click on the online scheduler or call your most convenient location.
