Hypertension Review
Persistently high blood pressure (BP) causes strain on the arteries carrying blood around the body, which may eventually lead to Heart Attacks and Strokes. Please look at the British Hypertension society website for further information.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension you will usually be advised to start medication if your cardiovascular risk is elevated.
For those with hypertension it is important to monitor your blood pressure regularly. Many patient are measuring their own at home with a purchased device. We recommend that if you do so, you only purchase one that is approved as accurate by the British Hypertension society. Please note that they may need replacing every 3-4years as they will usually lose their accuracy after that.
Take your BP measurements after relaxing for 10 minutes and note down the best of three readings.
We need to see you at the practice annually for a brief review, but we need reassurance that your BP is controlled at other times. Your doctor will be interested to receive readings from you, at 3 monthly intervals unless your GP recommends otherwise.
COPD Review
You’ll have regular contact with your care team to monitor your condition.
These appointments may involve:
talking about your symptoms – such as whether they’re affecting your normal activities or are getting worse
talking about your medicine – including whether you think you might be experiencing any side effects
tests to monitor your health
It’s also a good opportunity to ask any questions you have or raise any other issues you’d like to discuss with your care team.
Contact your GP or care team if your symptoms get suddenly worse or you develop new symptoms between checkups.
Dementia Review
The quality of care provided to patients with dementia can be improved by focusing on the following 6 key areas at this regular review. This applies both to patients in the community and nursing home residents. 1. Medication Review, 2. Mental Health, 3. Physical Factors, 4. Risk Assessment, 5. Assessment of Carers Needs, 6. Social Supports Review
Kidney Disease Review
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys don’t work as well as they should.
It’s a common condition often associated with getting older. It can affect anyone, but it’s more common in people who are black or of south Asian origin.
CKD can get worse over time and eventually the kidneys may stop working altogether, but this is uncommon. Many people with CKD are able to live long lives with the condition.You’ll have regular contact with your care team to monitor your condition.
Diabetes Review
Type 2 diabetes check-ups help to make sure your condition doesn’t lead to other health problems.
Every 3 months
Blood sugar checks (HbA1C test) : Checks your average blood sugar levels and how close they are to normal.
You have these checks every 3 months when newly diagnosed, then every 6 months once you’re stable. This can be done by your GP or diabetes nurse.
Once a year
Feet: Checks if you’ve lost any feeling in your feet, and for ulcers and infections.
This can be done by your GP, diabetes nurse or podiatrist.Speak to your GP immediately if you have cuts, bruises or numbness in your feet.
Eyes: Checks for damage to blood vessels in your eyes. Speak to your GP immediately if you have blurred vision.
Blood pressure, cholesterol and kidneys: Checks for high blood pressure, heart and kidney disease.
This can be done by your GP or diabetes nurse