It is a good idea for everybody to closely monitor their blood pressure and particularly so for people aged over 50 as the risk of high blood pressure increases with age. People with high blood pressure often feel no adverse effects, making regular monitoring of blood pressure is crucial. If undetected and untreated, high blood pressure can lead to very serious conditions like strokes, kidney failure, heart disease and blindness.
What exactly is blood pressure and how is it measured? Blood pressure is the force of circulating blood against blood vessel walls. Doctors measure blood pressure by taking two readings. Systolic pressure is the measurement of pressure when your heart beats. Diastolic pressure is the measurement of pressure between beats, when your heart is at rest. To have a normal and healthy blood pressure, your systolic pressure should be less than 120 and your diastolic pressure should be less than 80.
If you are aged over 50 it is a good idea to consult your doctor about your blood pressure. High blood pressure can result from hereditary conditions and poor lifestyle, but elderly people are at higher risk and women in particular have a greater chance of having high blood pressure following the menopause.
A high blood pressure reading would be a systolic blood pressure of 140 or more and a systolic blood pressure of 90 or more. Should your doctor discover you have high blood pressure do not panic, but be prepared to take medication and to make some lifestyle changes. It would also be a good idea to inform your family of your high blood pressure so they can offer care and support. Investing in a wrist blood pressure monitor from an online pharmacy like Lloyds can help you and your family keep a watchful eye on your blood pressure.
If you are found to have high blood pressure your doctor will prescribe medicine. Be sure to tell your doctor the truth about your lifestyle so they can give advice on changes that must be made. Smoking and drinking has a particularly hazardous effect on blood pressure levels and should be stopped. Likewise, poor diets that include high fat, sugar, caffeine and salt levels should be changed to a diet rich in fruit and vegetables and low in processed foods.
Regular exercise can also help reduce your blood pressure and can help lower the dosage of medicine needed over time. Ask a friend or family member to accompany you on a leisurely 30 minute walk every day. Remember to keep to your medicine schedule, taking it every day at the same time and regularly check your wrist blood pressure monitor.
If you are aged over 50 and have normal blood pressure it is still vital to eat a healthy diet, take regular exercise, stop smoking and drink responsibly to maintain your blood pressure at a healthy level. Be aware of your blood pressure at all times by investing in a home blood pressure monitor and immediately raise any concerns you have with your doctor so they can offer lifestyle advice or prescribe medication when necessary.
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