24-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring Test in Hull
Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is a method to measure your blood pressure on a continuous basis for 24 hours. Your blood pressure is measured even as you sleep. The ongoing data helps your healthcare provider get a more accurate picture of your blood pressure numbers. The results can confirm a high blood pressure diagnosis and guide treatment.
What is ambulatory blood pressure monitoring?
Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is a way of measuring and managing high blood pressure. High blood pressure (hypertension) means your top number (systolic blood pressure) is at least 130 mmHg (millimeters of mercury), and/or your bottom number (diastolic blood pressure) is at least 80 mmHg.
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Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring records your blood pressure (BP) readings over a 24-hour period, whether you’re awake or asleep. This happens outside your healthcare provider’s office, as you go about your daily life. You wear a cuff on your arm and a small device attached to a strap or belt.
Why do I need a 24-hour blood pressure monitor test?
It is normal for blood pressure to change during the day because of anxiety, diet, exercise, sleep or any blood pressure medication you may take. As a result, taking a single blood pressure measurement in the clinic is not always a very accurate way of checking your blood pressure.
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The test will give us more detailed information about your blood pressure during your daily life.
How is the monitor fitted?
It is a good idea to wear a loose-fitting top or shirt to your appointment as this makes it easier to fit the monitor. We will fit the inflatable cuff on the arm of your choice. It should sit comfortably around your arm so please reposition it if needed. If the cuff moves during the monitoring period, the results may not be accurate. The cuff is connected to a small monitor, which you will wear around your waist clipped into a belt or waistband. It takes about 10 minutes to fit the cuff and monitor.