What is a 24-hour blood pressure monitor? 

A 24-hour blood pressure monitor (also known as an ambulatory blood pressure monitor) is a small, wearable device that records your blood pressure automatically throughout a full day and night. It measures your blood pressure every 20–30 minutes as you go about your normal activities, giving a detailed picture of how your blood pressure changes over time.

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This test helps your doctor to:

• Detect high (hypertension) or low (hypotension) blood pressure

• Assess how well your blood pressure medication is working

• Identify possible sleep apnoea (abnormal breathing during sleep)

• Investigate fainting or near-fainting episodes (syncope or near-syncope)

• Monitor day-to-night variations in blood pressure

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What happens during ambulatory blood pressure monitoring? 

A blood pressure cuff will be fitted to your upper arm, similar to the one used in your doctor’s office. The cuff connects to a small recording device worn on a strap over your shoulder or around your waist.

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Once fitted, the monitor will record your blood pressure automatically at regular intervals over 24 hours, including while you sleep. You’ll be asked to keep a simple diary of your daily activities and any symptoms (for example, feeling dizzy or lightheaded). This helps your cardiologist interpret changes in your readings.

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You can continue with most of your usual activities such as work, light exercise, and driving, but you cannot shower, bathe, or swim while the monitor is on.

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After 24 hours, you’ll return to the clinic for the monitor to be removed. Our expert cardiologist, Dr Gerald Yong, will review your recordings and provide a detailed report to your referring doctor.

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How do I prepare for 24-hour blood pressure monitoring?

Before your appointment, please ensure you are freshly showered, as you won’t be able to bathe or shower during the 24-hour monitoring period.

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Wear a loose, short-sleeved top, as the cuff will need to be fitted around your upper arm. The test is safe and painless, though you may experience mild discomfort or tightness each time the cuff inflates.

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At the end of the 24-hour period, please return the monitor and your completed activity and symptom diary to the clinic. This will only take a few minutes. The technician fitting your monitor will confirm the exact return time and instructions at your appointment.