ABPM

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DIAGNOSTIC TECHNIQUES

For a more accurate diagnosis

Recommended for,

  • differentiate

    permanent hypertension from “white coat syndrome” hypertension found only during the medical consultation

  • evaluate

    the effectiveness of treatment,  the fluctuating blood pressure, patients with clinical signs of organ damage (abnormal kidney function, left ventricle hypertrophy), paroxysmal hypertension (suspected pheochromocytoma), hypertension during pregnancy

ABPM

The ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is a non-invasive ambulatory method used for the repetitive recording of the blood pressure over a period of 24 hours. The device consists of an inflatable cuff connected by a hose to a small battery-powered portable pump, a manometer and an electronic data registration system. The cuff is positioned on the patient’s arm and the monitor is worn on a shoulder strap or on the belt. The device is set to measure the heart rate and the blood pressure multiple times per hour during the day and once every hour during the night.

Blood pressure is a measure of the force of the blood against arterial walls. The systolic pressure is the highest level of blood pressure in the arterial walls and corresponds to the pressure in the system during the contraction of the heart. The diastolic pressure is the minimal pressure and corresponds to the pressure in the system during the period of filling of the heart. High blood pressure puts an additional workload on the heart, whereas hypotension can lead to fainting. Hypertension is a very common illness which is considered a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. This technique helps to clarify and confirm a diagnosis of hypertension before prescribing medication for several years to the patient. During the test, patients are asked to write down on a log their physical activities, their emotions, their medication and meal schedules, etc

In this way, the ABPM gives the doctor a precise image of the factors that may influence the blood pressure of the patient. At the end of the testing, the device must be returned to the clinic for analysis of the data.

If you suspect or notice your blood pressure to be abnormal, talk to one of our doctors and feel free to ask him to prescribe you an ABPM test to confirm the diagnosis and the extent of the disease.

If you have a prescription for an ABPM test, you can call 514 747-8185 to book an appointment. We will quickly forward your results to your physician.