A news story about a patient with masked hypertension - a condition in which blood pressure readings are normal when measured by providers but high in everyday settings - quoted Heather Johnson, MD, MS, associate professor, Cardiovascular Medicine.

Masked hypertension is the opposite of "white coat hypertension," where feeling anxious in clinical environments causes elevated blood pressure.

Instead, with masked hypertension, daily living may be so fast-paced or nerve-racking that a doctor's visit allows a moment of calm, resulting in a lower-than-typical blood pressure reading. For people experiencing masked hypertension, a clinical visit provides respite. "They're able to take a break from the stresses of their everyday lives," said Dr. Johnson.

Explaining that masked hypertension can be difficult to diagnose, Dr. Johnson described the long-term harm that can result, including damage to the heart and kidneys. The condition is estimated to affect 10 to 15 percent of Americans.

Resources:

• "Condition caused by stress could be affecting you, and you don't even know about it," NBC15, May 2, 2017