ABPM Test: Monitoring Blood Pressure for Better Heart Health
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) is a specialized diagnostic test used to measure blood pressure continuously over a 24-hour period. Unlike traditional blood pressure readings taken in a clinical setting, ABPM provides a comprehensive picture of how blood pressure changes throughout the day and night during normal activities and sleep.
How Is the ABPM Test Conducted?
The test involves wearing a compact, portable monitor attached to a cuff around the upper arm. The device automatically inflates at regular intervals to record blood pressure readings throughout the day and night. Patients are encouraged to maintain their usual daily routine while wearing the monitor.
Why Is an ABPM Test Recommended?
Doctors recommend ABPM for patients in scenarios such as:
- Suspected white-coat hypertension, where blood pressure is elevated in a clinical setting but normal elsewhere.
- Detecting masked hypertension, where blood pressure appears normal in the clinic but rises during daily activities.
- Evaluating treatment effectiveness in managing high blood pressure.
- Diagnosing and managing nocturnal hypertension or blood pressure changes during sleep.
Abnormal results from other heart tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or stress test. This procedure is also used to assess the severity of blockages before planning treatments like angioplasty, stent placement, or coronary artery bypass surgery.