What does ABPM mean in MEDICAL

ABPM stands for ambulatory blood pressure measurement. It is a method of monitoring blood pressure over a 24-hour period using a portable device.

ABPM provides a more accurate assessment of blood pressure than traditional office readings. This is because office readings can be affected by factors such as stress and "white coat hypertension," where blood pressure is elevated in the doctor's office but normal at other times. ABPM can also identify patterns in blood pressure, such as nocturnal hypertension (high blood pressure at night) or "dipping" (a drop in blood pressure at night).

An ABPM device is placed on the upper arm and worn for 24 hours. The device automatically measures blood pressure every 15-30 minutes during the day and every 30-60 minutes at night. The patient keeps a log of their activities and any symptoms they experience.

ABPM is generally comfortable and convenient. You will need to wear the device for 24 hours, but you can go about your normal activities. You may experience some mild discomfort from the device's cuff inflating and deflating.

ABPM provides a more accurate assessment of blood pressure than traditional office readings. It can help to diagnose hypertension, rule out white coat hypertension, and identify patterns in blood pressure. ABPM can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of blood pressure medication.

ABPM is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, there are some potential risks, such as skin irritation from the device's cuff, excessive bleeding if you have a bleeding disorder, and anxiety or discomfort from the device.

ABPM is typically recommended for people who have high blood pressure or are at risk for developing high blood pressure. It is also useful for people who have white coat hypertension or who are taking blood pressure medication.