White Coat Syndrome - Yikes!

Is white coat syndrome real? 

Yes, white coat syndrome is real. Researchers have done multiple studies about it and documented their findings. 

White Coat Syndrome 

White coat syndrome, or white coat hypertension, is the term for when you get a high blood pressure reading in a doctor’s office and a normal reading at home. The anxiety of being around doctors in white coats can make your blood pressure rise.  Seriously, I have mentored patients that are affected by this. They get tense before the doctor's visit.

We ask our medical partners that participate as vendors to refrain from wearing white coats at the exhibit table at our events. I remember overhearing a group of ladies at one of our events saying how intimidating it felt to approach the tables to get a health screening. One of the professionals invited her over to the information table and offered to check her blood pressure, and sure enough, the readings came back elevated. 

Here’s the thing: many healthcare providers are aware of this phenomenon, often called white coat syndrome. That’s why some of them will ask the person to relax and retake the reading after a few moments. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference turning fear into trust, and numbers into insight. I appreciate something as simple as removing the white coat or inviting someone to take a moment before retesting their blood pressure. Instead of feeling judged or anxious, the person begins to feel supported and respected.

To Your Health, Cynthia