Blood Pressure Checks in Ely

Are you looking to get blood pressure checks in Ely? Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a significant threat to public health, with 7 million people affected and 1.6 million disability-adjusted life years lost in the UK. Among the leading risk factors for CVD is Hypertension, affecting over 5.5 million undiagnosed individuals in England alone. Early detection is crucial in mitigating the risk of cardiovascular complications. However, the impact of COVID-19 has disrupted routine blood pressure monitoring, prompting the need for proactive services like the Hypertension Case-Finding Service in Ely, offered by Haddenham Pharmacy.

Understanding Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, poses a silent threat as it often manifests without noticeable symptoms. Regular checkups are essential to uncover this condition and address it promptly. Haddenham Pharmacy, in collaboration with the NHS, is dedicated to bridging the gap in hypertension detection and treatment in the Ely community.

If left untreated, hypertension can elevate the risk of severe health issues such as heart attacks and strokes. With the prevalence of undiagnosed cases on the rise, the Hypertension Case-Finding Service becomes a vital resource in safeguarding community health.

Causes and Risk Factors

The causes of high blood pressure are multifaceted, involving lifestyle choices and genetic predispositions. Risk factors include excessive salt intake, inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption, lack of exercise, obesity, alcohol and caffeine consumption, smoking habits, age, sleep deprivation, and familial history. Individuals of black African or black Caribbean descent and those residing in deprived areas may also face an increased risk.

Lifestyle Changes for Blood Pressure Management

Fortunately, lifestyle changes can significantly contribute to preventing and reducing hypertension. These include regular exercise, monitoring salt intake, increasing water consumption, incorporating fiber-rich foods, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, moderating alcohol and caffeine intake, and prioritizing quality sleep.

Maintaining a healthy blood pressure is crucial for overall well-being and cardiovascular health. Here are some lifestyle changes you can incorporate to help reduce and manage high blood pressure:

Regular Exercise:

– Engage in moderate-intensity aerobic exercises such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling.
– Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise.

Healthy Diet:

– Adopt the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
– Reduce sodium intake by avoiding high-salt foods and opting for fresh, unprocessed alternatives.
– Include potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, and leafy greens.

Monitor Salt Intake:

– Read food labels to identify and limit high-sodium products.
– Avoid adding extra salt to your meals and use herbs and spices for flavor.

Hydration:

– Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water,
– Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, as excessive intake can contribute to high blood pressure.

Weight Management:

– Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
– Losing even a small amount of weight can have a significant impact on blood pressure.

Dietary Changes:

– Increase fiber intake by consuming whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables.
– Limit saturated and trans fats found in fried and processed foods.

Quit Smoking:

– Smoking can raise blood pressure and damage blood vessels. Quitting smoking is a crucial step in improving cardiovascular health.

Limit Alcohol Intake:

– If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For most adults, this means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

Stress Management:

– Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness.
– Ensure adequate sleep to support overall well-being.

Regular Blood Pressure Checks:

– Monitor your blood pressure regularly, either at home or through healthcare providers.
– Be aware of your numbers and seek medical advice if there are consistent concerns.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant lifestyle changes, especially if you have underlying health conditions. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and medical history.

Haddenham Pharmacy’s Hypertension Service in Ely

Our Hypertension Service is designed to proactively identify individuals at risk within the Ely community. Booking an appointment for a blood pressure check is simple and accessible. Following the assessment, our team provides personalized healthy living advice and facilitates referrals to healthcare professionals when necessary.

Eligible patients for this service include:

• – Adults aged 40 and above without a hypertension diagnosis
• – Adults under 40 with a family history of hypertension (at the pharmacist’s discretion and based on appointment availability)
• – Self-requested adults aged 35-39 (at the pharmacist’s discretion and based on appointment availability)

It’s important to note that this service is not available for patients regularly monitored by healthcare professionals for their blood pressure.

Prioritise your cardiovascular health by scheduling a blood pressure check with Haddenham Pharmacy in Ely. Early detection is the key to a healthier future.

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This blog was written on behalf of Haddenham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.