Understanding Hypertension: Key Facts and How Your Pharmacist Can Help
Content List:
- What is Hypertension?
- Australian Hypertension Statistics
- How Blood Pressure is Measured
- Why Hypertension is a Concern
- Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
- Managing Hypertension: Lifestyle Changes and Treatment
- Visit Your Local Pharmacy for Blood Pressure Checks and Support
What is Hypertension?
Blood pressure is essential for your body’s circulation. It refers to the force of blood against the walls of your blood vessels (or arteries) as your heart pumps blood. Your blood pressure varies throughout the day, increasing during exercise, stress, or excitement and decreasing when you are at rest or sleeping. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when your blood pressure remains persistently elevated even when you are resting.
Australian Hypertension Statistics
According to the Australian Health Survey, nearly one-third of adult Australians had hypertension in 2011-12. Of those, almost half (48.8%) reported having a chronic heart or circulatory condition. Hypertension is more common among men and becomes increasingly prevalent with age; nearly 9 in 10 people aged 85 and older are affected.
How Blood Pressure is Measured
Blood pressure is expressed in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as two numbers, for example, 120/80 mmHg. The first number (systolic pressure) represents the pressure when the heart pumps blood out, and the second number (diastolic pressure) represents the pressure when the heart rests between beats. Blood pressure is best measured when you are calm and sitting or lying down.
- A reading below 120/80 mmHg is considered optimal.
- Readings between 120/80 mmHg and 139/89 mmHg are in the normal to high-normal range.
- High blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg or higher, while readings above 180/110 mmHg are classified as very high.
Why Hypertension is a Concern
Hypertension increases the risk of serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, blood vessel disease, kidney damage, and retinal problems. The higher your blood pressure, the greater the risk to your health. Because hypertension often presents without symptoms, regular blood pressure checks are essential to detect and manage it effectively.
Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
- Family history
- Diet and eating patterns
- Alcohol consumption
- Body weight
- Physical activity levels
Certain medications may also contribute to higher blood pressure, so it’s important to consult your pharmacist if you have concerns.
Managing Hypertension: Lifestyle Changes and Treatment
Treatment often starts with lifestyle modifications, including:
- Losing weight if overweight
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Maintaining a balanced, healthy diet
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Quitting smoking
- Adopting a low-salt and low-caffeine diet
If lifestyle changes are insufficient, medications can be prescribed to help lower blood pressure.
Visit Your Local Pharmacy for Blood Pressure Checks and Support
Regular blood pressure monitoring by a health professional, such as a pharmacist, is vital. Your pharmacist can measure your blood pressure using painless and easy-to-use blood pressure machines in a calm, supportive environment. They will explain your readings, provide advice on maintaining healthy blood pressure, and refer you to a doctor if further medical attention is needed.
Pharmacies may also offer additional services to help with lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation programs and weight management clinics. Visit your local pharmacy today to learn more about how they can support your journey to better health.
Source: PSA Health Column 1556
