What is 24-Hour ABPM?
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) is a non-invasive test that measures and records your blood pressure at regular intervals over a 24-hour period, even while you sleep. A portable blood pressure monitor, connected to a cuff worn on your arm, automatically records readings during your normal daily activities and rest.
Unlike a one-time clinic measurement, ABPM provides a complete picture of your blood pressure patterns throughout the day and night.
Why is ABPM Important?
Blood pressure is not constant—it naturally fluctuates during different times of the day, during physical activity, emotional stress, or sleep. ABPM helps identify variations and gives more reliable results than routine measurements. It plays an important role in:
Detecting white coat hypertension (high BP only in clinical settings).
Identifying masked hypertension (normal in clinic, high outside).
Monitoring effectiveness of blood pressure medications throughout the day.
Assessing night-time blood pressure patterns (dipping or non-dipping).
Evaluating resistant hypertension (when BP remains high despite medications).
Detecting variability in blood pressure that increases cardiovascular risk.
When is 24-Hour ABPM Recommended?
Your doctor may recommend ABPM if you:
Have inconsistent blood pressure readings.
Experience symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or palpitations not explained by clinic BP.
Are suspected of having white coat or masked hypertension.
Have been diagnosed with hypertension but need assessment of treatment effectiveness.
Are at risk for cardiovascular disease due to diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, or family history.
Require evaluation for unexplained organ damage such as kidney or eye disease.
How is the Test Performed?
Device Setup – A lightweight, portable blood pressure monitor is fitted to your waist or shoulder, with a cuff wrapped around your upper arm.
Automatic Readings – The device inflates the cuff at regular intervals (usually every 15–30 minutes during the day and 30–60 minutes at night).
Normal Routine – You continue your usual activities, including work and sleep, while the device records readings.
Data Analysis – After 24 hours, the device is removed, and the recorded data is analyzed by Dr. Karthik R to provide an accurate picture of your blood pressure profile.
The test is safe, painless, and requires no special preparation.
What Does ABPM Reveal?
Average day-time and night-time blood pressure.
Presence of hypertension, even if clinic readings are normal.
Night-time dipping pattern, which is an important predictor of cardiovascular risk.
Effectiveness of ongoing medications throughout the 24-hour cycle.
Fluctuations and spikes in blood pressure related to lifestyle or stress.
Benefits of ABPM at Dermapulse
Expert analysis by Dr. Karthik R, ensuring accurate interpretation of results.
Modern, compact devices designed for patient comfort and ease of use.
Comprehensive assessment, giving a true reflection of your daily blood pressure variations.
Personalized treatment plans based on precise monitoring results.
Patient-friendly approach, with guidance on managing hypertension through lifestyle and medication.
Preparing for 24-Hour ABPM
Wear loose-fitting clothing to accommodate the cuff comfortably.
Continue your normal daily activities for accurate readings.
Avoid showering or swimming while wearing the device.
Keep a diary of activities, meals, and symptoms to help correlate with blood pressure readings.
The 24-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) test provides an in-depth and reliable assessment of blood pressure behavior in real life, helping to detect hidden hypertension and evaluate treatment effectiveness. It plays a vital role in preventing long-term complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
At Dermapulse, with the guidance of Dr. Karthik R, you can expect accurate diagnosis, clear explanation of results, and a personalized plan to manage your blood pressure effectively.
Schedule your 24-Hour ABPM test at Dermapulse today and take control of your cardiovascular health with confidence.
