Keep to the Beat

Welcome to Keep to the Beat, a vital health initiative brought to you by Primary Care Knowsley, dedicated to helping our community take control of their heart health. High blood pressure, often called the “silent killer,” affects millions of people, frequently going unnoticed until it leads to serious health problems. Our campaign focuses on early diagnosis and providing personalised lifestyle advice to prevent complications before they start.

Keep to the Beat aims to make it easier than ever for you to monitor your blood pressure and understand what those numbers mean for your health. By identifying potential risks early, we can work together to manage and reduce the chances of heart disease, stroke, and other related conditions. Through free screenings, educational resources, and tailored support, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Join us in this life-saving campaign and take the first step toward a healthier future. Because with Primary Care Knowsley, your heart is in good hands—let’s Keep to the Beat together.

The blood pressure chart

Once you obtain your blood pressure reading, you can use the blood pressure chart to see what they mean and if your blood pressure is in the healthy range. The chart is suitable for adults of any age, as the cut-off point for diagnosing high blood pressure doesn’t change with age.

How to use the blood pressure chart

Simply find your top number (systolic) on the left side of the chart and your bottom number (diastolic) on the bottom. Where the two lines meet is your blood pressure.

Understanding Your Blood Pressure Test Results

Credit: Experts in Health
Credit: Experts in Health

What is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force exerted by your blood against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around your body. It’s measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as two numbers:

  • Systolic Pressure (top number): This represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
  • Diastolic Pressure (bottom number): This is the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats.

Blood Pressure Categories

Your blood pressure results will fall into one of the following categories:

  • Normal: Systolic less than 120 mmHg and Diastolic less than 80 mmHg.
  • Elevated: Systolic 120-129 mmHg and Diastolic less than 80 mmHg.
  • Hypertension Stage 1: Systolic 130-139 mmHg or Diastolic 80-89 mmHg.
  • Hypertension Stage 2: Systolic 140 mmHg or higher or Diastolic 90 mmHg or higher.
  • Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic higher than 180 mmHg and/or Diastolic higher than 120 mmHg. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

What Your Results Mean

  • Normal: Your blood pressure is within a healthy range. Keep up with your current lifestyle!
  • Elevated: Your blood pressure is slightly above normal, and you may be at risk of developing high blood pressure in the future. Consider lifestyle changes like a healthier diet and regular exercise.
  • Hypertension Stage 1: This is the early stage of high blood pressure. Your GP Practice may recommend lifestyle changes and possibly medication.
  • Hypertension Stage 2: Your blood pressure is high, and you’ll likely need medication and lifestyle adjustments to lower it.
  • Hypertensive Crisis: This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Contact your GP Practice right away if you receive this reading.

Why Blood Pressure Matters

High blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. It’s often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no symptoms until significant damage has occurred.

What Affects Your Blood Pressure?

Several factors can influence your blood pressure, including:

  • Diet: High salt intake, processed foods, and too little potassium can raise blood pressure.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity helps keep your heart and blood vessels in good condition.
  • Weight: Being overweight increases your risk of hypertension.
  • Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure.
  • Alcohol and Tobacco Use: Both can increase blood pressure over time.
  • Age and Genetics: Your risk increases as you age, and a family history of hypertension can also elevate your risk.

What You Can Do to Manage Your Blood Pressure

  • Eat a balanced diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
  • Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can make a big difference.
  • Limit alcohol: Keep it to moderate levels—up to one drink per day for women and two for men.
  • Reduce stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
  • Avoid smoking: Smoking damages your blood vessels and raises blood pressure.

When to See a Doctor

If your blood pressure is elevated or in the hypertension range, schedule an appointment with your GP Practice. They can help you create a plan to manage and monitor your blood pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Q: How often should I check my blood pressure?
    • A: If you have normal blood pressure, checking it at least once a year is recommended. If it’s elevated or higher, follow the advice of you GP Practice, which may include more frequent monitoring.
  • Q: Can I lower my blood pressure without medication?
    • A: Yes, many people can lower their blood pressure through lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and stress management. However, some may need medication to achieve healthy levels.
  • Q: What should I do if my blood pressure is too high?
    • A: If you receive a high reading, take a moment to relax and retake the test after a few minutes. If it remains high, consult your GP Practice for further advice.