A blood pressure test is usually used to check if your blood pressure is healthy, high, or low. Blood pressure describes the force in which your blood pushes against the artery walls as it circulates throughout your body. Continue reading to find out how you can get a free blood pressure check in Redditch.
What are high blood pressure and low blood pressure?
Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is generally not a cause for concern, though it can make some people feel lightheaded or faint. However, consistent low blood pressure can be dangerous and life-threatening if left unattended.
On the other hand, if you have high blood pressure (hypertension), this could be concerning, especially if unchecked, it might raise your chance of developing serious medical illnesses like heart attacks and strokes.
When should I have a free blood pressure check in Redditch?
You should always get your blood pressure checked, especially if you are worried.
Every five years, as part of the NHS Health Check, adults in England between the ages of 40 and 74 are offered blood pressure checks.
You might need to undergo the tests more regularly if the results indicate that you have high or low blood pressure or are highly susceptible to acquiring either.
Several locations do provide blood pressure checks, including:
- Pharmacies
- Your local GP surgery
- Some places of work
How is my free blood pressure check done?
Although the devices used to measure blood pressure differ, they are all forms of measuring devices, frequently with an arm cuff connected.
Before air is inflated to tighten the grip, the arm cuff is typically wrapped over your upper arm. The tightening of the arm cuff could be slightly uncomfortable, but it’s pretty much a painless experience.
It is advised that you remain calm and avoid speaking at this time when your blood pressure is being measured. A stethoscope may be used to take your blood pressure if the test is being carried out by a medical practitioner.
The measurements obtained by the arm cuff’s sensors are often detected by an automated system, which subsequently transmits them to a digital display.
You will be able to see the results immediately.
How to check your blood pressure at home
If you frequently need to monitor your blood pressure at home, you can get a digital blood pressure monitor. However, it’s crucial to let your doctor or pharmacist know about it.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
Here are a few lifestyle adjustments that can bring down blood pressure and maintain it there.
1. Losing weight
Weight gain frequently causes an increase in blood pressure. In addition to raising blood pressure, being overweight can lead to sleep apnoea, which disrupts breathing while you’re asleep.
2. Exercising regularly
High blood pressure can be lowered with regular exercise. To prevent blood pressure from increasing once more, it’s crucial to continue exercising.
3. Eat a healthy diet
High blood pressure can be lowered by eating a diet high in healthy grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products but low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
4. Reduce salt (sodium) in your diet
The heart’s health and high blood pressure can both be improved with even a minor decrease in sodium intake.
Other lifestyle adjustments include:
- Limiting alcohol use
- Giving up smoking
- Getting enough sleep
- Avoiding stress
Visit your nearest Knights Pharmacy branch to get your free blood pressure check in Redditch.
This post was written on behalf of Knights Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor
