White Coat Syndrome

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:4-7 (ESV)

“Only in your office is my BP always high,” I uttered as my doctor walked into the room where I was waiting for my blood pressure follow up. Nowadays, it is a part of regimen to have the blood pressure be checked by the primary physician every 4 months if a person is on hypertension medications. 

He smiled and was always quick to ask if I still have a good supply of my medications. I had been going to see him for so many years now. He just wanted to make sure that I was not having any new symptoms. He knew my BP readings at home had been normal and even if stressed out, a slight elevation was not of a concern.

There was a syndrome called “White Coat Hypertension” where a person’s BP reading is high in a clinic or a medical setting when usually normal at home. It earned its name since a medical professional usually wears a “white coat”. Except…in my case, I wasn’t…I have known my doctor and his staff for many years. I knew I was stressed out going to his office as many reckless drivers crossed my path on my way to his office.

But even if the blood pressure is high only in doctor’s offices, one shouldn’t take such elevations lightly because it may be an indication of something going on in a person’s body. Hypertension is known as a “silent killer” because sometimes, a person may not feel any ill effects but a devastating result like heart problems or strokes may occur.

So…I thanked them…Wished them a good day. Told them I would see them in 4 months…

Six days later Jesus took Peter, James, and John, and led them up a high mountain to be alone. As the men watched, Jesus' appearance was transformed, and his clothes became dazzling white, far whiter than any earthly bleach could ever make them. – Mark 9:2,3 (NLT)

I am grateful… I know that it is good to step away from home (world) and consult the doctor with the white coat (Jesus). Not even every 4 months. Each day matters. Because sometimes, we get anxious and worried for the things of this world and that’s when we remember to call on Jesus… Only to realize it’s always best to be with Him and such troubles go away. After all, the fight is always about mind over matter.

Do you know your BP readings?