How to Relax for a Blood Pressure Test

Some individuals may experience an increase in blood pressure prior to or during a visit with their doctor. This phenomenon is referred to as "white coat hypertension." "White coat" refers to a traditional physician's jacket. This elevation in blood pressure can result in an inaccurate blood pressure reading. Certain actions can be taken prior to a doctor's visit that can help a patient relax before a blood pressure test.

Things You'll Need

• Pillow
• Decaffeinated tea
• Soothing music
• Gym

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Instructions

Preparing for a Blood Pressure Test

• 1

  Avoid liquids high in caffeine, such as coffee or soda, prior to taking a blood pressure test. In addition, don't partake of tobacco and alcohol before meeting your health care provider for a blood pressure test. Lastly, adopt a low-sodium diet, since foods that are high in salt can cause blood pressure to increase.

• 2

  Get in shape. Exercise is a good way to lower blood pressure. Patients with high blood pressure are often asked by their doctors to begin an exercise regime. Routine exercise can help lower blood pressure on the day of a blood pressure test.

• 3

  Staying relaxed is the best way to avoid white coat hypertension. Often, doctors will advise patients to close their eyes and envision their most favorite relaxing place. Practice this exercise prior to their blood pressure test. This means sitting quietly, with your eyes closed, breathing normally in a relaxed manner.