WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE
Take control of your blood pressure:
Did you know September 5th – 11th is Know Your Numbers! week. This year marks the 22nd anniversary of the UK’s biggest blood pressure awareness event. Here at The Doctors Clinic Group we believe that prevention is much better than cure, and so we want to teach you what you need to know about your blood pressure.
With so many people limiting their regular check ups at the GP due to the pandemic, it is time to take control of your health again and ensure you understand and maintain a healthy blood pressure. Our main goal at The Doctors Clinic Group is to empower you to take control of your health, therefore here is what you need to know about blood pressure and how it can impact you and your life.
What is blood pressure and what is a healthy recording?
Your blood pressure is recorded by two numbers. The higher number (systolic pressure) is the force at which your heart is pumping blood throughout your body. The lower number (diastolic pressure) measures resistance in your blood vessels to the flow of blood.
- An ideal blood pressure reading is usually between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg
- A high blood pressure reading (hypertension) is usually 140/90mmHg or high
- A low blood pressure reading (hypotension) is usually anything below 90/60mmHg
What you need to know about irregular blood pressure:
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: 1/3 of people in the UK suffer from high blood pressure. Hypertension puts pressure on the walls of your blood vessels and can cause them to narrow or clog up. This increases the workload of the heart and the blood vessels throughout the body, forcing them to work harder and less efficiently. Persistent high blood pressure can cause damage to the delicate tissues inside blood vessels such as the arteries. This can ultimately lead to other conditions developing such as heart attack or stroke.
LOW BLOOD PRESSURE: Low blood pressure is usually a sign of another underlying condition. Most people will experience drops in their blood pressure every now and again, however prolonged periods of hypotension can cause problems if not managed. Hypotension can be caused by various conditions such as:
- Sudden loss of large amounts of blood due to injury
- Pregnancy (this is common during the first 24 weeks)
- Impaired circulation as a result of heart attack
- Dehydration
- Infection in the bloodstream
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disease
What symptoms should you look out for?
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: Many people who have high blood pressure will show no symptoms, which is why it is so important to regularly check your numbers. However, some patients may develop persistent headaches, nosebleeds, blurred or double vision.
LOW BLOOD PRESSURE: The symptoms for low blood pressure are a bit more obvious than those of high blood pressure. Patients can suffer from, nausea, dizziness (especially when standing up too quickly), blurred vision, weakness, and confusion.
Treatment:
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: A change in lifestyle can help control and lower high blood pressure. Your GP may recommend the following:
- Eating a low salt diet
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quit smoking
However, sometimes lifestyle choices are not sufficient and your doctor may prescribe medication.
LOW BLOOD PRESSURE: Treatment for hypotension will be greatly impacted by the cause. Some patients may be prescribed medication especially if their underlying condition related to heart disease, infection, or diabetes. Hydration is key in avoiding low blood pressure. Eating small meals frequently can also help as your body often works harder to digest large meals, causing further drops in blood pressure.
How can the Doctors Clinic Group Help:
At The Doctors Clinic Group we offer a wide range of corporate health screens. Whether you are looking for a comprehensive full body MOT or want the option of a more focused health screen, we can help. A blood pressure check is a part of each of our health screens so that you can be well equipped with the knowledge necessary to take control of your health again. To learn more please contact our sales team today!