Exams and Tests

How does my health care professional know for sure that I have high blood pressure? If your blood pressure seems high, your health care professional may measure your blood pressure a few times or ask that you take and record your blood pressure at home. Having multiple readings often helps to confirm you have high blood pressure.

During your office visit, your health care professional will take your health history and perform a physical exam. Make sure to share information about your risk for heart disease and any other conditions you have that might affect your blood pressure.

Your health professional may also order an ECG or other laboratory tests. Additional tests can include: urinalysis, serum potassium, blood glucose or creatinine to measure or calculate kidney function.