Adopted From: Understanding and Managing your blood pressure; Hypertension Canada.
Note: A diagnosis of high blood pressure must be confirmed with a medical professional. A
doctor should evaluate any unusual blood pressure readings. Additionally, lower targets may
be appropriate for some populations such as African-Americans, the elderly, or patients with
underlying issues such as diabetes mellitus or chronic kidney disease.
Important for Canadians:
* Hypertension measured at home ≥ 135/85
* Hypertension measured at a physician’s office ≥ 140/90
* Hypertension measured at a physician’s office for a diabetic patient ≥ 130/80
For further information, see our website www.biosmedical.com.
1.5 Common Blood Pressure Questions and Answers
a) Why is my blood pressure reading always different?
Your blood pressure changes constantly. It is quite normal for blood pressure to fluctuate significantly (50
mmHg to 60 mmHg) throughout the day. Blood pressure is normally lowest at night, but increases during
waking hours when the stress and activities of everyday life are highest.
mmHg
AM Time PM
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
110
120
130
140
150
160
170
8.00 10.00 12.00
Typical 24 - Hours Rhythm
14.00 16.00 18.00 20.00 22.00 24.00 2.00 4.00 6.00 8.00
systolic blood pressure
diastolic blood pressure
b) Why is the doctor’s reading different from the reading taken at home?
Your blood pressure can vary due to the environment (temperature, nervous condition). When measuring
blood pressure at the doctor’s office, it is possible for blood pressure to increase due to anxiety and
tension, this is known as “White Coat Hypertension”.
c) Why should I monitor blood pressure at home?
One or two readings will not provide a true indication of your normal blood pressure. It is important to
take regular, daily measurements and to keep records over a period of time. This information can be used
to assist your physician in diagnosing and preventing potential health problems.
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