Ambulatory Blood Pressure
Ambulatory Blood Pressure (ABP) monitoring involves wearing a small, portable device that automatically measures your blood pressure at regular intervals throughout a 24-hour period, both during the day and night. This provides a much more accurate and comprehensive picture of your blood pressure patterns compared to a single reading taken in a clinic, helping to diagnose “white coat hypertension” or “masked hypertension”.
What this cardiac test measures
Average Blood Pressure
Your average blood pressure over 24 hours, and separately for day and night.
Blood Pressure Variability
How much your blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day.
Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure
Both the top and bottom numbers of your blood pressure readings.
Nocturnal Dipping
Whether your blood pressure drops adequately overnight, which is a normal and healthy response.
What to expect from an Ambulatory Blood Pressure test
1.
A cuff will be fitted to your upper arm and connected to a small, portable device that you can wear on a belt or in a pouch. The device is programmed to inflate the cuff and take a blood pressure reading at regular intervals (e.g., every 15-30 minutes during the day and every 30-60 minutes at night).
2.
You'll be asked to go about your normal daily activities while wearing the monitor. After 24 hours, you'll return the device for data analysis.
3.
You'll receive your test results and recommendations from your cardiologist regarding any next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I shower with the monitor on?
No, the device is not waterproof. You will need to remove it for showering or bathing.
Is it uncomfortable?
You’ll feel the cuff inflate each time a reading is taken, which can be a little disruptive, especially during sleep. However, most people tolerate it well.
Do I need to do anything special?
We ask you to keep your arm still and relaxed when the cuff inflates. You’ll also be asked to keep a diary of your activities and sleep times.
How long until I get results?
The data will be analysed, and your cardiologist will discuss the results with you, usually within a few days.
How much does the test cost?
All our cardiac tests are bulk-billed from our 5 convenient Western Australian locations: Bentley, Geraldton, Nedlands, Mandura, Rockingham. For enquiries, you can phone our clinic on 08 6166 3737 or request an appointment online, here.