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Labile hypertension refers to widely varying systolic blood pressure readings over time, This is generally limited to elderly patients whose systolic pressures are highly variable due to their less elastic arteries. Transient rises in blood pressure may be seen in the setting of the physician's office. This has been termed "white coat or clinic hypertension." Patients with transient increases in blood pressure have an increased risk for developing sustained hypertension. They should be advised to modify their lifestyle as necessary and to have careful medical follow-up.