Are you worried about your blood pressure? Do you intend to start managing your blood pressure? Are you thinking of purchasing blood pressure monitors, first aid kits, medical equipment, travel first aid kits or stethoscopes? Do you suffer from hypertension? If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then this article can help you understand basic techniques for measuring your blood pressure and advice on how to control your blood pressure such as a balanced diet, regular exercise and relaxation. It also provides you with information about First Aid Warehouse, the UK’s premier supplier of first aid kits, blood pressure monitors, medical equipment, travel first aid kits and stethoscopes.



How do I measure my own blood pressure?

The process of measuring your own blood pressure is simple. There are just a few basic rules that need to be followed:

· Try and keep the conditions fairly constant when taking your measurement. This includes the time of day, and any medication that you may have taken.

· Take your measurement in a relaxed state, preferably in a sitting position.

· Allow half an hour to have passed since your last cup of tea, exercise or since you were in a stressful situation.

· If in doubt seek medical advice as to when the optimum time for measuring your blood pressure should be – this should take into account your daily routine.

The process of taking your blood pressure is almost always done by placing the cuff around your arm (usually the left) and positioning it on a level with your heart. Follow the particular instructions that are specifically given relating to your blood pressure monitor. You also need to note down the measurement.

What happens if I have hypertension?

There is no fast rule because everybody is different. However if hypertension is detected and treated before it causes other complications, then the chances of recovery are good. If you require medication then you must follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. If no medication is required, there are still many things that you can do to lower your blood pressure and these in turn will help you to feel better overall.

Diet

A sensible approach to your diet can help to reduce your blood pressure. You should try and have a well balanced diet which is also low in calories. Your diet should also contain plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. You should avoid animal fats and salt wherever you can. Remember that salt is often hidden in sliced meats, cheeses and ready to serve meals, so wherever possible you should try to avoid them.

There is nothing wrong with a glass of wine or beer, but like with most things if you consume alcohol in excess then this is harmful to your blood pressure. If you smoke, you should stop – there are many support organizations and helplines that can assist you. Taking 500mg of vitamin C a day has been shown to lower blood pressure. Fish oils and garlic are also helpful in keeping your heart healthy.

Exercise

In addition to a healthy diet, regular exercise can also contribute to lowering your blood pressure. Exercise is also important in helping you to combat excessive fat, reduce stress and become more energetic.

Everything should be done in moderation but regularly. It is much better to plan regular, moderate training schedule rather than undergoing a burst of over-strenuous activity followed by a period of no exercise. Whether you plan brisk walks, jogging, cycling or swimming they are all sufficient activities to put a medium load on the heart. You will need about 15-30 minutes of activity per day.

Strenuous sports should be avoided and if you are in any doubt as to what activities you should be participating in, then you should seek medical advice.

Relax

With the stresses and strains of everyday life it is important to consciously make time for rest. Relaxation reduces the strain on the autonomic nervous system. One of the key functions of the nervous system is to contract and dilate the blood vessels, which in turn affects blood pressure levels.

Relaxation can take on many forms. However the main aim is to try and slow your pulse rate, thus reducing the strain on the heart. You will know what activities you enjoy but techniques such as yoga, breathing exercises and self-hypnosis can also help.

Blood Pressure Monitors

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