High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension, is a common condition which affects the body’s arteries. Although common, this condition rarely has noticeable symptoms and in most cases the cause is unknown.

Blood pressure is considered to be high when the force of blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high meaning the heart has to work harder to pump blood.

Blood pressure is recorded by comparing two different numbers in a reading:

• The systolic pressure (the higher number in the reading shows the force at which the heart is pumping blood around the body)
• The diastolic pressure (the lower number in the reading shows the resistance to the blood flow in the blood vessels)

Both of the elements outlined above are measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and as a general guide:

• High blood pressure is considered to be from 140/90mmHg – or 150/90mmHg for people over the age of 80
• Ideal blood pressure is usually considered to be between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg, while the ideal for over-80s is below 150/90mmHg

How do I know if I have high blood pressure?

As mentioned previously, the condition does not usually have any symptoms, so the only way to find out whether you have it is to get a blood pressure test. 

It is important to remember that if left untreated, the condition can increase the risk of more serious conditions or complications. You do not need to wait to be offered a test, you can ask to have one if you are concerned and (in healthy adults over the age of 40) it is advised to have this checked at least once every 5 years

What are the risk factors of high blood pressure?

Persistent high blood pressure can increase the risk of a number of serious and potentially life-threatening conditions, including:

• Strokes
• Heart attacks
• Vascular disease
• Heart failure
• Kidney disease
• Aortic aneurysms

If you have high blood pressure, reducing it by even a small amount can significantly lower the risk of developing any of the conditions outlined.

What can I do to reduce my blood pressure?

Lifestyle changes, medication or a combination of both can help prevent and lower high blood pressure. But, ultimately, what works best is different for each person. You can talk to your GP or seek advice from a medical professional to help you decide on the best method of treatment for you.

Common lifestyle changes that can help, include:

• Exercising regularly
• Losing weight if you are overweight
• Lowering alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking
• Reducing salt intake

In some cases, people may be prescribed medication to manage the condition.

Here at One Ashford Hospital, we have a dedicated team of cardiology consultants on hand to rapidly assess, diagnose and treat high blood pressure along with a range of other conditions.

You can use your private medical insurance or pay for your High Blood Pressure treatment. We offer competitive, fixed price packages. If you are using your health insurance, please contact your insurer first for approval and let them know you’d like to be treated at either the One Ashford Hospital or One Hatfield Hospital.

Why One Healthcare

• Modern purpose-built hospital opened in March 2016 (Ashford) December 2017 (Hatfield)
• Fast access to diagnostics including MRI, X-ray and Ultrasound
• 0% and low finance options**
• Private, spacious, en-suite rooms
• Specialist Physiotherapy and nursing teams
• Little or no waiting time
• ‘Ultra clean air’ theatres
• Freshly prepared food
• Calm, dignified experience

**Terms and conditions apply

Contact us and find out more

If you live in and around the Kent area and would like to visit our One Ashford Hospital please click here

If you are based in and around Hertfordshire and would like to visit the One Hatfield Hospital please click here.