A Guide for Patients in Singapore
Key takeaways:
- 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) provides a more accurate picture of your blood pressure throughout the day
- The device records readings while you go about your normal activities and during sleep
- It helps diagnose conditions like masked hypertension and white-coat effect
- Preparation involves wearing comfortable clothes and continuing your usual routine
- The test is non-invasive and painless, though it may cause mild sleep disturbance
What Is a 24-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring Test?
Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is a diagnostic tool used to measure your blood pressure continuously over 24 hours, using a portable device attached to your upper arm. It allows your doctor to assess your blood pressure throughout a typical day and night, while you’re working, walking, eating, and sleeping.
This method gives a more accurate representation than a single in-clinic reading and is particularly useful for evaluating:
- Suspected white-coat hypertension (high readings only in the clinic)
- Masked hypertension (normal in-clinic readings but elevated at home)
- Effectiveness of blood pressure medications throughout the day and night
What Happens During the Test?
You’ll be fitted with a blood pressure cuff on your non-dominant arm, connected to a small recorder (about the size of a mobile phone) worn on a belt or shoulder strap. The cuff inflates automatically at regular intervals, usually:
- Every 15 to 30 minutes during the day
- Every 30 to 60 minutes at night
Each time the cuff inflates, you may feel a slight tightening, similar to a standard blood pressure check.
You’ll be asked to:
- Continue with your normal activities
- Avoid vigorous exercise or water-based activities
- Keep your arm relaxed and still during readings
You may also be given a diary to log your activities, meal times, stress episodes, or any symptoms you feel (e.g., dizziness, palpitations) to correlate with the readings.
Is the Test Uncomfortable?
Most people tolerate ABPM well. The cuff inflations can be slightly annoying, especially at night, and may interrupt sleep occasionally. However, this is normal and expected. The benefits of capturing nighttime blood pressure readings outweigh the minor discomfort.
Tips to improve comfort:
- Wear a loose-fitting top with easy access to the upper arm
- Keep the device dry (you will not be able to shower while wearing it)
- Sleep on your back or non-monitored side if possible
How Should I Prepare for the Test?
Here’s how to get ready:
- Shower beforehand, as you cannot remove the device during the 24-hour period
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing to allow the cuff to inflate properly
- Continue your usual routine, unless told otherwise
- Inform your doctor of any blood pressure medications you are taking
- Carry the activity log if provided, and note any symptoms or events that occur
There’s no need to fast or avoid caffeine unless advised by your doctor. The goal is to assess your blood pressure under realistic, everyday conditions.
What Happens After the Test?
You’ll return the device to the clinic, where the data will be downloaded and analysed. Your doctor will review:
- Average daytime and nighttime blood pressure
- Variability throughout the day
- Any unusual spikes or dips
- How your readings correlate with symptoms or daily activities
This information helps guide decisions about diagnosis, treatment, and medication adjustments.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I go to work or run errands while wearing the device?
A: Yes, you should follow your usual routine, including going to work. However, avoid vigorous physical activity or anything that could damage the device.
Q2: Can I sleep with the monitor on?
A: Yes. The device is designed to record your blood pressure while you sleep. It may cause brief awakenings but won’t harm you.
Q3: What if I miss a reading or the cuff slips?
A: Don’t worry if a few readings are missed. Just note the time in your activity log. If the cuff slips, gently reposition it to its original place.
Q4: Do I need to stop taking my medication before the test?
A: Not unless your doctor advises it. The goal is to see how your blood pressure behaves in your normal state.
Q5: How long does it take to get the results?
A: Results are usually ready within a few days after the device is returned and the data reviewed by your doctor.
Want a More Accurate Picture of Your Blood Pressure?
A single reading at the clinic may not tell the whole story. If you’ve been advised to undergo 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, or if your blood pressure fluctuates between visits, this test can offer valuable insights.
At Heart Matters Cardiac Centre, we provide ABPM as part of our comprehensive hypertension evaluation. Our team will guide you through every step, from fitting to follow-up.
📍 Located at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
📞 Call +65 6339 1991
📧 info@heartmatters.com.sg
🔗 Book a consultation today