Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is the 24-hour continuous monitoring of your blood pressure at regular intervals while you perform your daily activities.

The circumstances at the time of measurement may influence the readings of the blood pressure. The time of day when reading is taken can be important, especially for patients prone to high blood pressure. For some patients, blood pressure readings taken in the clinic tend to be higher. ABP can be an accurate method to evaluate a patient’s usual blood pressure as readings are obtained over a 24-hour period outside a clinical setting.

It enables the doctor to evaluate effectiveness of medications and correlate blood pressure readings with daily events in patient’s life. Doctors can find out what activities are likely to trigger your symptoms such as giddiness, light-headedness, fatigability, and rapid heartbeat and determine if the symptoms are related to your blood pressure.

No preparation is needed for this test, but you probably want to shower before coming for it as you will not be allowed to shower or swim after electrodes are attached.

When you arrive at the Clinical Measurement Unit (CMU), the laboratory technologist will calibrate the recorder and attach three electrodes onto your chest. If you have chest hair that interferes with the attachment of the electrodes, it will be shaved. You will wear an inflatable cuff on one arm while the recorder can be comfortably carried in a waist pouch that will be provided.

The technologist will then explain in detail how to use the recorder. Clarify any doubts you have about the instructions given. It is important for you to know the correct method of using the apparatus. After everything is set, you can return to your regular activities.

The machine will automatically record your blood pressure throughout the day (and night) at time intervals set by the technologist. When the recorder is taking readings, the cuff will tighten as if your doctor is taking blood pressure. You should relax your arm to ensure accurate readings.

You will have to return to the hospital the next day for the recorder to be removed. The recorded data will be transferred to a computer for charting and analysis. Results will be given to your doctor who will discuss it with you on your next appointment.