What is white coat high blood pressure?

White coat high blood pressure is an inaccurate blood pressure reading. More specifically, it’s the false high blood pressure reading that is obtained in the doctor’s office or similar medical environment. This inaccurate reading is supposed to the result of the patient’s anxiety, fear, or stress associated with the upcoming examination. To receive a white coat high blood pressure reading at a first-time doctor office is not uncommon.

Oftentimes, medical personnel will repeat the high blood pressure test once the patient has had time to relax. The same patient can take the same test at home and will be remarkably better.

Interestingly enough, the term white coat high blood pressure comes from the obvious – the white coats worn by medical personnel. It seems the only time white coat high blood pressure is present is when white coats are visible. It’s true, stress can affect our health.

It may not be white coat high blood pressure

It’s not to be assumed that high blood pressure readings are white coat high blood pressure readings because there really may be unknown stress related to the patient. Elevations in blood pressure can be the result of several triggers.

To help clear up the confusion, it may be suggested that the patient check her blood pressure at home or at a pharmacy. It’s important to remember the best times to take a blood pressure reading is after you’ve sat for a bit, haven’t consumed caffeine, or haven’t smoked. It’s important to take the blood pressure readings about the same time of each day.

What can bring about a white coat high blood pressure reading?

Climbing stairs on the way to your doctor’s office would be a perfect example of how white coat high blood pressure got its name.

How common is white coat high blood pressure?

White coat high blood pressure isn’t as uncommon as one may think. As a patient enters a doctor’s office, she is unaware of her rising blood pressure.

How can white coat high blood pressure be dangerous?

White coat high blood pressure can be dangerous because people tend to shrug it off. They tend to feel “it’s only high when I see my doctor.” Another danger is on the other side when white coat high blood pressure levels are believed to be the accurate reading and then the patient is over treated.

How can one address white coat high blood pressure?

Addressing white coat high blood pressure should be treated as high blood pressure: avoid stress, avoid salt, maintain a healthy weight, and exercise regularly. There are some people who also take supplements to address their health needs naturally. For example, thousands of Americans now use all-natural dietary supplements for their high blood pressure concerns.