“Controlling Hypertension Together!”
As you will know by now I am always very keen on promoting things we can do as a community and how we can support each other. So I was very heartened to see that this is the theme for this year’s World Hypertension Day on May 17. According to the World Health Organisation, the aims of the day are to promote increased awareness of high blood pressure and accuracy in blood pressure measurement. We can do that! Find out more….
We all know we need to have ‘blood pressure’ to keep our blood pumping around our bodies, but we very seldom notice it happening, so it is easy to overlook in everyday life. Yet keeping our blood pressure at a healthy level is one of the most important steps we can take to protect our long-term wellbeing and stay active in our community. Blood pressure is simply the force of blood pushing against the walls of our arteries as the heart pumps. When this pressure is consistently too high — a condition known as hypertension — it can quietly increase the risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney issues. Because high blood pressure often has no obvious symptoms, it is sometimes called the “silent condition.” This means regular checks are essential, even if we feel perfectly well. According to Patient.info, high blood pressure is a blood pressure that is:
- 140/90 mm Hg or higher when taken at a GP surgery, pharmacy, or clinic, or;
- 135/85 mm Hg or higher when taken at home.
However our blood pressure varies throughout the 24 hour period depending on what we are doing. A single high reading is not enough to confirm high blood pressure. As a rough guide, the ideal blood pressure for adults is between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg. Blood pressure readings are given as two numbers, eg 130/80. The first number is the systolic blood pressure, and is the blood pressure when the heart is pushing blood out through the body. The second number is the diastolic blood pressure, and is the blood pressure when the heart is filling with blood between heartbeats. Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg). Find out more….
If there is an indication of high blood pressure the NICE guidelines recommend that further measurements are taken, for example, using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) or home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM). With HBPM the person takes their own blood pressure at frequent intervals using a reliable machine. The results of this more detailed monitoring will help the clinician make the diagnosis and then advise lifestyle changes and/or medication. The good news is that there is a great deal we can do ourselves to maintain a healthy reading. Small lifestyle changes can make a significant difference.
One of the most effective is staying physically active. Simple activities such as brisk walking, gardening, cycling, or even energetic housework can help strengthen the heart and improve circulation. A daily walk around the village or along local footpaths can be both enjoyable and beneficial. Diet also plays a key role. Eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein helps support heart health. Reducing salt intake is particularly important, as too much salt can raise blood pressure. Checking food labels, cooking more meals at home, and flavouring dishes with herbs and spices instead of salt are all practical steps. Staying well hydrated and limiting excessive alcohol consumption can also help keep blood pressure in check.
Maintaining a healthy weight is another factor. Even modest weight loss, if needed, can lead to noticeable improvements in blood pressure readings. Equally important is managing stress. Modern life can be busy and demanding, but finding time to relax — whether through hobbies, socialising, mindfulness, or simply enjoying nature — can benefit both mental and physical health. In Wedmore we have so many organisations to choose from – see your Isle of Wedmore Directory for ideas. For smokers, stopping smoking is one of the best decisions for overall cardiovascular health. Support is available in Somerset from Smokefreelife Somerset, Public Health, County Hall, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4DY. Phone: 01823 356222. Website: Smokefree Somerset website. Email: smokefree@somerset.gov.uk
Finally, taking an initial reading and then regular monitoring of blood pressure is key. Blood Pressure UK has some really useful information, including an easy-to-watch video about this. Find out more….
You may wish to buy your own BP machine and this website recommends the types to buy (NHS approved) and you can buy directly from them, with prices from £19.00. If you don’t have your own machine you can have your BP taken at many pharmacies, including Wedmore Pharmacy. If you need to do additional monitoring many pharmacies and libraries will loan out machines.
Some people wear a ‘fitness tracker’ and this may monitor blood pressure. These may give an indication of blood pressure, but are not a substitute for an accurate blood pressure machine. Knowing your numbers empowers you to take action early if needed. So, find out what your numbers are and ask for advice if you are in doubt or concerned. By paying attention to blood pressure and making positive lifestyle choices, we can help ensure we remain healthy, independent, and able to contribute fully to village life. Looking after our hearts today helps secure a happier, more active tomorrow for us all.
Support for people with dementia and their carers in Wedmore
Carer’s Group
Do you care for or support a person living with dementia? Then this friendly informative group is for you! Come along on the first Friday of the month to The Swan Hotel, Wedmore between 10am and 12md. The next meeting will be on Friday 1st May. If you want to find out more about the Memories Workshops and Carers’ Group, phone HeadsUp on 01749 670667 or email wedmorecarers@yahoo.com If you need help with funding for attending HeadsUp, just ask, help may be available.
Coffee and a Chat
For general support with mental wellbeing Somewhere House, a charity based in Burnham, visits The Bluebird Café in Wedmore on the first Wednesday of the month, from 10-12md. They offer an opportunity to meet and chat. For more information contact them on 01278 780769
Wedmore Health & Wellbeing Project
01934 806266