“White coat syndrome” is a common situation that occurs when a person’s blood pressure rises in a doctor’s office due to anxiety. One out of every 3 people have high blood pressure according to the Centers for Disease Control.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. This recent study in Finland concluded that home-measured blood pressure is a better predictor of heart disease-related problems than blood pressure monitoring at a physicians office, according to Finland’s National Institute of Health and Welfare.

I will often check a patient’s blood pressure before they leave the office, to see if it changes from they’re initial blood pressure. If not, then I recommend purchasing a home BP machine and monitor pressures at home. Blood pressures can be very different in a variety of environments and situations. Checking it at home 2-3 times per day can give you and your health practitioner a better sense of whether further treatment is necessary.

Reuters – Think you need to go to the doctor’s office to check your blood pressure? Think again: The best way to predict your risk of stroke or heart attack due to high blood pressure is through systematic monitoring at home rather than periodic checks in the doctor’s office, new research suggests….

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