The purpose of a blood pressure test is to establish the status of your blood pressure. This relates to the pressure with which the blood pushes against the sides of your arteries as it flows throughout your body. How do I check my blood pressure in Leeds? Continue reading to find out.
What are hypertension and hypotension?
Low blood pressure (hypotension) is rarely a cause for concern, however, it can cause symptoms like dizziness and fainting in some people.
High blood pressure, if not treated early enough, can increase your risk of serious conditions like heart complications.
Healthy people over the age of 40 should have their blood pressure checked at least once every five years. If you have a significant risk of hypertension, you should get your blood pressure checked more frequently, at least once a year. This is a straightforward process that has the potential to save your life.
How can I check my blood pressure in Leeds?
Your pharmacist will perform a physical examination and ask about your medical history. They will then take your blood pressure by wrapping an inflatable arm cuff over your arm and using a pressure-measuring gauge.
Blood pressure should be monitored in both arms to see if there is a difference. It’s vital to make use of the right size arm cuff.
Blood pressure tests
If you have hypertension, your pharmacist may recommend a test to verify the diagnosis and eliminate any possible causes.
- Continuous ambulatory monitoring. This 24-hour blood pressure monitoring test will tell you if you have high blood pressure or not. The technology used in this test allows the equipment to take your blood pressure at regular intervals over the course of a 24-hour period. This provides you with a more accurate view of how your blood pressure fluctuates during the day and night.
- Lab tests. Your pharmacist or doctor may recommend a urinalysis (urine test) and blood tests, like a cholesterol test.
- An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). The electrical impulses of your heart are measured using this simple test.
- Based on the symptoms and test findings, your doctor may order an echocardiogram to look for more signs of heart disease.
What are the five symptoms and indicators of high blood pressure?
The following are signs to watch out for if your blood pressure is too high:
- Severe headaches
- Tiredness or confusion
- Visual difficulties
- Discomfort in the chest
- Breathing difficulties and a fast or irregular heartbeat
It’s never too early to start adopting healthier lifestyle choices, such as quitting smoking and getting more exercise. These are the most common ways to prevent high blood pressure and complications, such as heart attacks and strokes.
What counts as a high blood pressure emergency when I check my blood pressure?
Hypertension at this level demands medical attention. Wait about 5 minutes then take another reading if your blood pressure suddenly increases above 180/120 mm Hg. If your findings continue to be excessively high, make an appointment with your doctor straight away. You may be having a hypertensive emergency.
Don’t wait for your blood pressure to drop on its own if you’re experiencing symptoms of organ damage such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness/weakness, vision problems, or difficulty speaking. Seek medical help as soon as possible.
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This post was written on behalf of Knights Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor
