Why GPs check Blood Pressure

GPs routinely check Blood Pressure.

Blood Pressure (BP) is expressed as two numbers, X / Y Systolic pressure (the ‘X’) is the higher pressure when blood is pumped out by the contracting heart, while diastolic pressure (the ‘Y’) happens in between contractions when the heart is relaxed.

Your blood pressure is measured by a sphygmomanometer, High BP (hypertension) is a factor in a number of conditions including heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.  Normal BP is regarded as between 110-140 over 70-90.  Normal range increases with age.

People today can measure BP at any home using rented devices.  As stress can easily elevate it, a visit to the doctors sometimes causes “white coat hypertension” due to the stress of the visit, which is harmless.  Home monitoring or a 24 hour monitor can sort out what is happening.

Your doctor will exclude underlying problems that can cause high blood pressure, usually with a blood test.

And there are simple things you can do to help keep you BP normal.  Regular exercise, moderating your salt intake and maintaining a healthy weight are three.  Those who meditate or de-stress regularly are less likely to have hypertension.

Many people require medication to reduce the risk of serious illness later in life.  Your doctor can advise.  Sometimes you need to trial a few before finding the right one and some people need medications in combination.