White coat hypertension occurs most commonly, although not exclusively, in people with iatrophobia (fear of doctors). This condition is marked by significantly elevated blood pressure when it is measured at the doctor’s office. The blood pressure is normal, however, when monitored at home or in other settings.
The term was chosen to represent the fact that doctors tend to wear white coats. Some experts believe that the presence of the white coat may trigger an unconscious fear reaction that causes the blood pressure to rise. Additionally, you may or may not feel anxious or nervous.
Although the existence of this condition is still debated within the medical community, many doctors have given up their white coats and taken other steps to minimize patients’ fear. In addition, if your blood pressure is high, you may be encouraged to rest and relax for several minutes before another reading is taken.
