What is ‘white-coat’ hypertension?

White-coat hypertension is a phenomenon where patients tend to have higher blood pressure in the presence of health care workers and particularly physicians. In some patients it may be necessary to measure blood pressure at home to determine whether or not there is true hypertension or if the presence of health care workers is affecting the readings being recorded. It is important to note that there are a variety of other reasons for home blood pressure measurement and being asked to record your readings at home may be an important part of your treatment.