Do you know your numbers?

Around a third of a million people in the UK suffer from blood pressure problems. So, you think we have had a pandemic – at least the worry is obvious, but abnormalities in your blood pressure are not. In the US, the situation is even worse, with dietary and glucose control compounding the problem.

Blood pressure is described as high, low and normal. High blood pressure certainly isn’t always discernible, but at least you potentially have several symptoms if you are suffering from low blood pressure, common symptoms are light headedness, blurred vision, feeling sick and dizziness.

As with everything medical high and low blood pressure are given two different names:

• Hypertension (high) 

• Hypotension (low) 

Blood pressure readings are taking using the below measurements and you may hear your GP refer to these terms:

• Systolic – the higher reading, measured in mmHg. 
• Diastolic – the lower reading, measured also in mmHg. 

A relatively healthy adult should have a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg.

You are considered to have high blood pressure if your reading is 140/90 mmHg or higher, and low BP if your reading is 90/60mmHg or lower. Either condition should be looked at for further illness complications.

Measuring your blood pressure

During ‘Know Your Numbers Week’, temporary teams of doctors, nurses and those considered to be ‘Blood Pressure Partners’ or ‘Ambassadors’ team up to give the general public the opportunity of getting their BP measured at schools, colleges, sports centres, pharmacists, care centres, gyms, local authority buildings and others. 

If you are unable to use your regular GP, there are other ways to find out about blood pressure and get advice. Blood pressure UK provide advice about blood pressure and where to get tested.

A common cause of high blood pressure can be carrying excess weight. Blood pressure problems over a long period of time can lead to strokes, and raise the risk heart problems. Maintaining an active lifestyle, with healthy eating, and reducing stress can help improve blood pressure.

Blood pressure problems can occur at any time of your life, particularly in those over 50 years old. 

Other causes may be: 

• Excess alcohol
• Smoking
• Lifestyle
• Unhealthy or poor diet

If you are admitted to hospital at any time, one of the first things that will be carried out will be a check of your blood pressure. Why wait until something happens to you?

Know your numbers campaign

‘Know Your Numbers’ week is set up between the NHS and the Blood Pressure UK organisation. Each year, they will choose a promotion on a specific factor relating to BP.

This year their aims are obviously to increase awareness amongst our particular nation, but also to promote the importance of regular checks, particularly by home monitors (these are machines that you can buy).

As a company, we never promote any medical equipment or treatment, but your GP surgery may be happy to advise you, or your local pharmacist.

For further information refer to Blood Pressure UK or NHS.uk