How Do You Check and Control Your Blood Pressure?
Testing your blood pressure is the only way to determine whether it is high or low. In order to effectively manage high blood pressure, it is necessary to comprehend your results. Continue reading to find out how to get a free blood pressure check in Northampton.
What are the types of blood pressure?
The British Heart Foundation has categorised blood pressure into five ranges:
Normal
Normal blood pressure levels are considered to be less than 120/80 mm Hg.
Elevated
Regular blood pressure readings between 120 and 129 systolic and below 80 mm Hg diastolic are considered elevated.
Stage 1 Hypertension
When blood pressure fluctuates regularly between 130 – 139 systolic and 80 – 89 diastolic mm Hg, it is regarded as stage 1 hypertension.
Stage 2 Hypertension
Consistent blood pressure readings of 140/90 mm Hg or higher indicate that you may have stage 2 hypertension.
Hypertension Crisis
Hypertension of this severity requires medical treatment. If your blood pressure suddenly increases above 180/120 mm Hg, wait 5 minutes before taking another reading. Consult your physician immediately if your readings remain excessively elevated. You may be experiencing a hypertension emergency. You can also call NHS 111 for medical assistance.
How to get a free blood pressure check in Northampton
If your pharmacist feels that you have hypertension, they may suggest 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). With ABPM, your blood pressure is tracked for 24 hours with a cuff that is connected to a portable device that you wear around your waist.
During this time, you are free to pursue your typical activities. You can purchase a device to regularly measure your blood pressure regularly for peace of mind as well.
Does the pharmacy offer a free blood pressure check in Northampton?
Scheduling a blood pressure test is simple. Simply contact us to make an appointment. The checks should be free in the majority of cases, so it is worthwhile to visit your pharmacy. However, you must contact them beforehand in order to schedule an appointment.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
Here are some of the effective ways you can lower your blood pressure.
Lifestyle changes
Certain alterations to your lifestyle can help reduce your blood pressure. Some of these will help you reach your goals in a few weeks, while others will take a bit longer.
Make an attempt to:
- Limit your daily salt intake to less than 6 grams (0.2 ounces), or about a teaspoon.
- Consume a low-fat, well-balanced diet that is abundant in fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Manage your weight – use the NHS BMI calculator to figure out your ideal weight and how to lose weight if you’re overweight.
- Remain physically active by exercising frequently.
- Learn how to drink less alcohol by keeping a drinking diary and tracking your intake.
- Limit your caffeine consumption (found in coffee, cola, and tea).
- Stop smoking with professional assistance.
Regardless of whether you are on blood pressure medication or not, you can begin taking these steps as soon as possible.
High-blood-pressure medications
Various drugs can be used to control high blood pressure.
Many individuals require a combination of drugs for optimal effectiveness.
- If you are under 55 years old, you will likely be prescribed an angiotensin-2 receptor blocker or an ACE inhibitor.
- You will almost always be prescribed a calcium channel blocker if you are 55 and above, or if you are of African or Caribbean origin.
There is a possibility that you will need to take blood pressure medication for the rest of your life. Your pharmacist may be able to reduce or terminate your treatment if your blood pressure remains under control for a number of years.
Visit us today to get your blood pressure tested.
