If the thought of going to the doctor makes you a little nervous,
imagine what it can do to your blood pressure. About 20 percent of people diagnosed
with high blood pressure, or hypertension, actually experience a spike in pressure
only for the few minutes they are in the examining room. Anxiety about a diagnosis or
fear of becoming ill can cause people to tense up in the presence of doctors and nurses.
This, in turn, triggers the release of stress hormones that send pressure soaring.
The phenomenon is called white-coat hypertension.
White-coat hypertension can indicate a predisposition to constant
high blood pressure, or it can mean nothing at all. One sign that the
spike is temporary: Home blood pressure readings are consistently normal compared
with readings at the doctor’s office. Another sign: Blood pressure readings are lower
when nurses or healthcare providers other than the physician take the actual reading.
On the other hand, white-coat hypertension can signify trouble for
people who, besides reacting strongly in a doctor’s office, experience similar
reactions to other minor stressors, such as being caught in traffic or running late for an
appointment. This could mean their blood pressure is high quite often—a big heart hazard.
If you find yourself getting upset or anxious at situations and events that you cannot control,
then white-coat hypertension may indicate a serious problem.
Talk to your doctor about medication and lifestyle changes you can make to
keep your blood pressure under control.
Make an appointment to relax
Feeling comfortable in the doctor’s office is the best way for your
doctor or nurse to get an accurate blood pressure reading. Here are some hints:
- Set your appointment for a time and day when you won’t feel rushed.
- Bring pictures from a relaxing vacation or listen to soothing music tapes.
- Arrive at your appointment a few minutes early so you can “unwind” from the drive before your name is called.
- Get plenty of sleep the night before.
- If you are seeing the doctor because of a specific symptom, it might help to describe the symptom in writing. This will help get it off your mind.
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