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24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM)

Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, also known as ABPM or a blood pressure Holter, automatically records blood pressure over 24 hours, during the day and night, in everyday conditions.

Why have ABPM?

It can confirm hypertension, identify a white-coat effect or masked hypertension, analyse night-time blood pressure and assess how well treatment works throughout the day and night.

What happens?

A cuff is placed around the arm and connected to a small recorder. Readings are programmed at regular intervals, less frequently at night. Keep your arm relaxed and still during inflation if possible.

Activity diary

Record when you get up, go to bed, eat, exercise and take medication, as well as any symptoms. This helps interpret changes in blood pressure in context.

Preparation

Wear loose clothing that allows room for the tube and access to the cuff. Take your usual medication unless your doctor advises otherwise. Keep the device dry.

Interpreting the results

The report assesses 24-hour, daytime and night-time averages and the pattern of night-time blood pressure reduction. A few individual readings are not enough: the quality and number of valid measurements must be considered.

Limitations

Cuff inflation may disturb sleep or cause discomfort. Movement or an arrhythmia can cause some measurements to fail. Do not adjust treatment because of one reading without medical interpretation.

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