It often happens that people’s blood pressure appears to be 150/95 in the clinic, but when they get home, it is a normal 120/80. This is not a mistake, but rather a common condition known as white coat hypertension. This means that blood pressure suddenly rises when you visit the doctor or are admitted to the hospital.
What is this problem?
White coat hypertension is quite common. According to research, about 1-2 out of every 5 people experience this condition. This is not just a mild anxiety disorder but can also be a serious heart condition.
How dangerous can it be?
According to a 2024 study by the American Heart Association, people who experience high blood pressure in front of a doctor have nearly twice the risk of heart attack. If left untreated, it can become a silent killer, Penn Medicine researchers report. According to ICMR’s 2024 report, more than 210 million people in India suffer from high blood pressure, and 20-30% of these patients are mistreated due to white coat hypertension.
Why does blood pressure increase?
The doctor’s white coat, hospital environment, fear of injections or disease – all these things create stress in the body. Increased stress increases heart rate and blood pressure, causing sudden increases. The condition was recognized in the 1980s, but new research suggests it may be recurring over time.
What does the Japanese study say?
A study of 153 people in Japan found white coat hypertension to be a condition where blood pressure is greater than 140/90 in the clinic and less than 130/80 during 24-hour monitoring. The condition is more common in women, the elderly, and people under stress.
How to stop it?
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Check your blood pressure at home every morning and evening.
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If your blood pressure is persistently high in the office, get 24-hour blood pressure monitoring (ABPM).
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While visiting your doctor, take deep breaths and sit quietly for 5 minutes.
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Reduce salt intake, eat fruits and vegetables, and walk 30 minutes daily.
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Avoid smoking and alcohol.