Blood Pressure - Common Questions

I saw this on the Omron web site - very useful.

Q: What exactly is blood pressure?

The heart creates pressure in order to pump blood around the body. The level of this blood can vary depending on the heart's rate of work and the resistance in the blood vessels.

Q: What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?

The trouble with high blood pressure is that usually, there are no symptoms. The best idea is to ask your doctor for a check-up, or use a personal blood pressure monitor.

Q: What are the long term risks of high blood pressure?

Without treatment, high blood pressure can lead to numerous health problems including heart attacks, circulatory problems and kidney failure. It is also one of the most common causes of strokes.

Q: What causes high blood pressure?

Many things, often linked to modern living. Among the most common are obesity, over-indulgence in alcohol, smoking, lack of exercise and the stress of modern life, although high blood pressure can also be hereditary.

Q: What can I do to lower my blood pressure?

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit, fresh vegetables, potatoes and rice. Avoid animal fats and use less salt. Try to drink less alcohol and exercise more. If you smoke, stop. If needed, your doctor will also prescribe suitable medication.

Q: How accurate are personal blood pressure monitors, and how often should they be used?

Extremely accurate, assuming they have been correctly calibrated and clinically validated. Always check this before buying. Normally, blood pressure should be monitored twice a week.