Reduce High Blood Pressure

The heart is designed to pump blood through our body. Blood is pumped from the heart through the arteries out to our muscles and organs.

Around 10 million people in the UK have high blood pressure – that's one in six of us!

The symptoms

A huge problem with high blood pressure is that its very unlikely to show symptoms, which is worrying as it can go unnoticed up to a stroke or heart diseases. So many people don't know they have high blood pressure

However severely high blood pressure can show symptoms like: a coma; sleepiness; persistent headaches; blurred or double vision; shortness of breath. If you have any of these, it would be very wise to visit a doctor as soon as possible.

Diseases caused by high blood pressure

• Stroke
• Narrowing of the arteries
• Kidney failure
• Heart Attack
• Heart Failure
• Coronary Heart Disease
• Aneurysm

What can you do to lower/ prevent high blood pressure?

As an adult of 35 years and above, It's wise to know your: blood pressure and cholesterol levels. You should have regular blood tests if your family is known for having high blood pressure.

A lot of the time, lifestyle can dramatically have an affect on your blood pressure. Some steps to help reduce blood pressure are:

• Stop smoking.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Limit your salt intake.
• Lose weight if you need to, as being over weight puts added pressure onto the heart.
• Exercise three or more times a week, twenty minute sessions. These don't have to be full blown gym workouts, it can be as simple as walking, swimming, cycling, and more.
• Don't drink alcohol.
• Try to reduce stress levels. Stress can also lead to a not so good night's sleep.
• Lower caffeine levels.
• Medication if needed. 
• Make sure that you are getting enough sleep.

If you do have an inkling that you may have high blood pressure, then please do not hesitate to go and see your local doctor. There is no equal substitute to seeing a highly trained professional face-to-face.