For patients
A simple test to understand your high blood pressure.
Your doctor may use a test called NICaS to see why your blood pressure is high. Knowing the reason helps your doctor choose the medicine that fits you.
Why it matters
The same number can have different causes.
A blood-pressure cuff gives one number. But high blood pressure can come from tight blood vessels, a heart that is working too hard, or both. NICaS helps your doctor see which one. That can mean finding the right medicine sooner, with fewer return visits.
What to expect
A couple of sensors, a couple of minutes.
No needles
Two small sensors go on your wrist and your opposite ankle.
Stay dressed
You do not need to undress.
Just rest
You sit or lie still while the test runs.
Talk it over
Your doctor reviews the results with you and decides next steps.
After the test
A follow-up test shows if treatment is working.
At a later visit, your doctor may repeat the test to see whether your treatment is working, or whether it needs a change.
Common questions
Questions patients ask.
Ask your doctor about NICaS.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your blood pressure.