For most people, getting their blood pressure checked is a regular practice that takes only a few minutes. However, for some people, the thought of having their blood pressure checked can be extremely distressing, sometimes to the point that they might want to skip their health check-up altogether.
Sometimes, the fear of getting the blood pressure checked can lead to elevated blood pressure levels, creating a vicious cycle. Thus, blood pressure phobia can be extremely distressing. In this article, we’ll look at a few causes of this condition while also looking at a few ways to overcome it.
What Causes Blood Pressure Phobia?
Blood pressure phobia is sometimes also known as white coat syndrome. It is a condition where a person experiences a spike in their blood pressure when it’s taken in a medical setting like a hospital or a doctor’s clinic as compared to when it is taken in other places. There are many causes for blood pressure phobia, such as:
- Observed Learning- Sometimes blood pressure phobia can be a result of watching someone have a negative experience during a blood pressure check.
- Fear of Diagnosis- Some people may avoid blood pressure check-ups because they fear that they might receive a diagnosis of hypertension or high blood pressure
- Past Negative Experiences– Sometimes fear of blood pressure might be a result of negative experiences with doctors or with blood pressure checks, especially during childhood.
- Underlying Anxiety– Sometimes fear of blood pressure checks can be an indication of underlying anxiety disorder,
How To Deal With Blood Pressure Phobia?
There are many ways to deal with blood pressure anxiety, they are:
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Understand The Fear
The first step to overcoming any phobia is to understand its roots. So, start by reflecting on what about blood pressure might be making you anxious. Is it the fear of getting diagnosed with hypertension? Or is the procedure of getting a blood pressure test stressing you out? Or is the doctor making you anxious? When you understand the reason behind the phobia, you can make plans to manage it
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Educate Yourself
Educating yourself on the importance of blood pressure checks and the process of blood pressure measurement can help you feel more confident ahead of a blood pressure check. Knowing that blood pressure is often a short and painless procedure can help you feel confident as well.
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Talk To Your Doctor
Open communication with your doctor is important. Let your doctor know about your phobia and how it might impact your blood pressure readings. Also, ask them if they can help you settle down during the procedure
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Relaxation Techniques
Practicing relaxation techniques during the procedure can help you feel calmer before the procedure. Practice deep breathing, by taking long breaths through the nose and exhaling through the mouth. Alternatively, you can also take deep breaths and imagine yourself in a calm place.
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Professional Help
If blood pressure phobia is making you avoid or ignore medical treatments or is severely impacting your life, you might want to consider seeking therapy. A therapist will not only help you find the root causes of your fear but also help you develop coping strategies for it.
Conclusion:
In summary, blood pressure phobia is an uncommon condition, but it can be very distressing for those who suffer from it. In extreme cases, the phobia might prevent people from seeking medical treatment. However, it is also important to know that one can overcome blood pressure phobia by reflecting on the fear, understanding the procedure and also by seeking help from a therapist if required.
References:
- Is white coat hypertension a long-term problem? – Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Retrieved June 25, 2024, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/expert-answers/white-coat-hypertension/faq-20057792
- What Is White Coat Syndrome? (n.d.). Retrieved June 25, 2024, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23989-white-coat-syndrome
- White Coat Hypertension: Get Rid of White Coat Syndrome. (n.d.). MedicineNet. Retrieved June 25, 2024, from https://www.medicinenet.com/how_do_you_get_rid_of_white_coat_syndrome/article.htm
- White Coat Syndrome: Causes, Treatment, Diagnosis and More. (n.d.). Retrieved June 25, 2024, from https://www.healthline.com/health/white-coat-syndrome#causes
