Blood Pressure UK: Understanding Blood Pressure and Taking Control with Dr Pauline Swift

The Mission of Blood Pressure UK

Pauline begins by describing the charity’s purpose and roots. Set up by the late Professor Graham McGregor, Blood Pressure UK was created to help people understand the significance of blood pressure and how much control individuals can take over their own health.

As Pauline puts it, “He really felt strongly that people should know what their blood pressure measurements were because high blood pressure is one of the biggest killers in the whole wide world.”

Despite being a small charity that relies on patient subscriptions and a handful of staff, Blood Pressure UK continues to punch above its weight. Its work reaches people across the country who need clear guidance and practical support.

Why Blood Pressure Matters More Than We Think

High blood pressure affects around half of all adults in the UK, rising to around 60 percent of people over 60. Pauline talks about the risks with great clarity. It contributes to heart attacks, strokes, chronic kidney disease, and vascular dementia. Many of these conditions can be prevented or delayed if high blood pressure is identified and treated early.

Luca reflects on this during the conversation, saying that even those who feel young and healthy are not immune. High numbers always mean something is going on beneath the surface.

Pauline adds, “Your blood pressure is looking after all your organs’ health. If you have got high blood pressure hitting your brain, your kidneys, your heart then those organs come under strain and it causes damage.”

For families considering live-in care for an older relative, understanding these risks can be hugely reassuring. Carers often play an important role in spotting changes, supporting lifestyle adjustments, and encouraging regular monitoring.

Salt, Processed Foods, and the Lifestyle Factors We Can Control

Much of the conversation touches on diet, especially salt intake. Pauline explains that salt is the biggest lifestyle factor driving high blood pressure across the population. Many people eat far more salt than they realise, particularly through processed foods.

She explains how quickly the body responds when salt intake drops. Blood pressure can fall within 12 to 24 hours, although it may take up to six weeks for the body to fully adjust. For families thinking about live-in care, these small changes can be supported daily as part of a personalised care routine.

Luca mentions the surprising salt content in everyday items like bread and ready meals, and Pauline confirms the challenge, saying, “In some bread loaves a couple of slices will have a gram of salt.”

Her advice is simple: reduce salt, increase fruit and vegetables, look at alcohol intake, work on stress, and if needed speak with a GP or pharmacist about medication.

What To Do After a High Blood Pressure Diagnosis

Pauline encourages anyone with a diagnosis to take control. That means knowing your numbers, adjusting your diet, and seeking medical support where needed. Many people will need medication eventually and there is no shame in that. What matters is protection.

This is where families and live-in carers can make a meaningful difference. Support with healthier meals, reminders about medication, gentle encouragement to stay active, and help with regular monitoring all contribute to long-term wellbeing.

Blood Pressure UK provides accessible resources and guidance that individuals and families can use straight away. Their website includes information on targets, lifestyle changes, validated monitoring devices, and when to seek medical advice.

Supporting a Loved One Living with High Blood Pressure

Half of adults have high blood pressure so very few families remain untouched by it. Pauline emphasises the value of doing this together.

She explains that people sometimes stop taking medication because the condition has no symptoms, so support from trusted people makes a real difference. If a particular medication does not suit someone another option can be tried. The key is not giving up.

For families caring for older relatives at home or considering live-in care support, these conversations can be vital. Live-in carers can encourage healthy routines, help maintain appointments, and ensure monitoring continues consistently.

Practical Takeaways

Know your numbers

Use a validated monitor, ideally an upper arm cuff checked by organisations such as the British and Irish Hypertension Society.

Take action early

Lifestyle changes can have quick effects, sometimes within hours. Medication is very effective when needed.

Reduce salt intake

Processed foods are the biggest contributors. Cooking from fresh makes a real difference.

Work together

Family members and carers can offer encouragement, emotional support, and practical help.

Use trusted resources

Blood Pressure UK and the British Heart Foundation provide reliable information and tools for self management.

Thank you to Dr Pauline Swift

A warm thank you to Dr Pauline Swift from Blood Pressure UK for joining Luca on The Care Cast and sharing such practical, reassuring advice. Her insights offer real guidance for families supporting loved ones at home and for anyone exploring live-in care as a long-term solution.

For more information on live-in care please contact our friendly team on 0345 125 8974.