24-hour blood pressure monitoring

During 24-hour blood pressure monitoring, your blood pressure is measured continuously for 24 hours, including at night. The test helps to obtain a more accurate overview of your blood pressure values, confirm a diagnosis, or evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.

Indications for the Test

  • Diagnosing high or low blood pressure
  • Assessing the effectiveness of blood pressure treatment — whether medication keeps blood pressure controlled throughout the day and night
  • Evaluating the daily rhythm of blood pressure — normally blood pressure decreases at night; if it does not, this may indicate an increased cardiovascular risk

You will be referred for the test by your family doctor or treating physician.

Contraindications

  • Injury to the arm or severe arm pain
  • Skin hypersensitivity or acute rash in the arm area
  • If you have an arteriovenous fistula, blood pressure will not be measured on that arm to avoid damaging the fistula

Preparation for the Test

  • Wear comfortable clothing with wide sleeves
  • Do not plan strenuous physical activity or swimming for the day of the test

Performing the Test

  • A blood pressure cuff will be placed on your left upper arm, attached by a cable to a small device (blood pressure monitor).
  • The device is placed in a pouch that you can wear around your neck or on your belt.
  • The device automatically measures and records your blood pressure every full and half hour during the day, and every full hour at night (22:00–06:00). You do not need to press any buttons.
  • During the monitoring period, continue your normal daily routine and usual physical activity.
  • When the cuff begins to inflate, keep your arm relaxed and straight beside your body to ensure accurate measurements.
  • The device must not get wet; therefore, swimming, sauna, bathing, and showering are prohibited during the test. Avoid heavy physical work as well.
  • Do not remove the device before the agreed time — otherwise the test will fail.

Possible Complications and Risks

  • Frequent cuff inflation may cause discomfort or sensitivity in the monitored arm.
  • Night-time cuff inflations may cause more frequent awakenings.
  • The monitor is an electronic device and must not come into contact with water.

Returning the Device and Test Results

  • After completing the test, return the device to the black box next to the information desk on the 1st floor of Building F, L. Puusepa 8, on weekdays between 08:00 and 10:00.
  • If the device was fitted on a Friday, you may return it during the weekend at any convenient time or on Monday between 08:00 and 10:00.
  • To receive your test results, contact your treating physician or family doctor.
  • The results are also available in the Patient Portal.

If you have any questions regarding the test, please contact the Arrhythmia Department at 731 8454.

Prepared by: Heart Clinic of Tartu University Hospital
2025