Hypertension is often diagnosed during a visit to your doctor.
Blood pressure is measured using a cuff around your arm and a
device called a sphygmomanometer. Your doctor may ask you to sit
quietly for five minutes before checking your blood pressure. If
your blood pressure reading is high, you will probably be asked
to come back for repeat blood pressure checks. If you have three
visits with readings over 140/90 mmHG, you will be diagnosed
with high blood pressure. Some people’s blood pressure goes up
when they are at the doctor’s office. If your doctor suspects
that may be occurring, he or she may ask you to get some blood
pressure readings at home. In some cases, he or she may
recommend that you wear an ambulatory blood pressure monitor.
This device measures your blood pressure regularly throughout
the day as you go about your activities. It is usually worn for
24 hours, even while sleeping. - Reviewer: Michael J. Fucci, DO
- Review Date: 09/2012 - - Update Date: 00/91/2012 -