High blood pressure (hypertension) is a serious health condition that can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other health problems. The good news is that there are many things you can do to control your blood pressure and live a long, healthy life.
At Grange Medical Practice, we are committed to helping you manage your blood pressure.
This webpage provides information on:
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It is measured in two numbers:
- Systolic pressure: the top number, which represents the pressure when your heart beats.
- Diastolic pressure: the bottom number, which represents the pressure between heartbeats.
What is considered healthy blood pressure?
A healthy blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mmHg.
Risks of High Blood Pressure
If left untreated, high blood pressure can damage your heart, arteries, kidneys, and other organs. This can lead to serious health problems, including:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney failure
- Vision loss
- Dementia
Lifestyle changes to lower blood pressure
There are many lifestyle changes you can make to help lower your blood pressure, including:
- Eating a healthy diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit saturated and unhealthy fats, salt, and added sugars.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing weight can significantly reduce your blood pressure.
- Exercising regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Reducing stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
- Limiting alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can raise your blood pressure.
- Quitting smoking: Smoking damages your blood vessels and increases your risk of heart disease and stroke.
When medication may be needed?
Lifestyle changes are often the first line of treatment for high blood pressure. However, if your blood pressure remains high despite lifestyle changes, your doctor may prescribe medication. There are several different types of blood pressure medications available. Your doctor will work with you to find the medication that is right for you.