Understanding & Managing High Blood Pressure
We’re passionate about your health and well-being, and we’re here to help you manage your blood pressure effectively. Did you know that high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects one in four adults in the UK? It’s a common condition that can lead to serious health problems if not managed properly. The good news is that with the right knowledge and lifestyle changes, you can take control of your blood pressure. And we’re here to support you every step of the way with our free NHS blood pressure checks through the NHS Hypertension Service.
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. When it’s too high, it puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels. This can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other health issues. Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and is given as two numbers: systolic pressure (the pressure when your heart beats) over diastolic pressure (the pressure when your heart rests between beats). A normal reading is usually around 120/80 mmHg.
Why Regular Blood Pressure Checks Are Important
Regular blood pressure checks are crucial because high blood pressure often has no symptoms. The only way to know if you have it is to have your blood pressure measured. This is where we come in! At The Local Pharmacy, we offer free NHS blood pressure checks as part of the NHS Hypertension Service. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help you monitor your blood pressure and provide advice on how to keep it within a healthy range.
10 Tips to Reduce High Blood Pressure
Managing high blood pressure involves a combination of lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. Here are ten practical tips to help you lower your blood pressure naturally:
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce your intake of saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is a great example of a heart-healthy eating plan.
- Reduce Salt Intake: Excessive salt can raise your blood pressure. Aim for less than 6 grams (about a teaspoon) of salt a day. Check food labels and choose low-sodium options when possible.
- Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, every week. Regular physical activity helps your heart pump more efficiently, lowering your blood pressure.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight increases your risk of hypertension. Losing even a small amount of weight if you’re overweight or obese can help reduce your blood pressure.
- Limit Alcohol Intake: Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure. Stick to the recommended limits: no more than 14 units of alcohol a week for both men and women, spread over three or more days.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking damages your blood vessels and raises your blood pressure. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart health.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Make time for activities you enjoy and ensure you get enough sleep.
- Limit Caffeine: Caffeine can cause a short-term spike in blood pressure. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, consider reducing your intake of coffee, tea, and energy drinks.
- Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home: Regular monitoring can help you keep track of your blood pressure and see how lifestyle changes are making a difference. Ask our team about how to properly use a home blood pressure monitor.
- Take Medications as Prescribed: If your doctor prescribes medication to help control your blood pressure, it’s important to take it as directed. Don’t skip doses or stop taking your medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
How We Can Help
At The Local Pharmacy in Leicestershire, we’re committed to supporting your health. Our free NHS blood pressure checks are a simple and effective way to keep an eye on your blood pressure. Here’s what you can expect:
- Friendly, Professional Service: Our trained pharmacists will measure your blood pressure using the latest equipment and provide you with your readings.
- Personalised Advice: Based on your results, we’ll offer practical tips and advice tailored to your lifestyle and health needs.
- Ongoing Support: We’re here to help you track your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your lifestyle or treatment plan. Regular check-ups are key to maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
- Convenient and Accessible: No need to book an appointment with your GP. Simply drop by our pharmacy, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Take Control of Your Blood Pressure Today
Managing high blood pressure is a lifelong commitment, but with the right support, it’s entirely achievable. Our team at The Local Pharmacy in Leicestershire is here to help you every step of the way. Whether you need a free NHS blood pressure check, advice on lifestyle changes, or support with your medications, we’ve got you covered.
This blog was written on behalf of The Local Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.