Regular health checks can help detect problems early and reduce your risk of serious conditions such as stroke, heart disease, and diabetes. Here are four key areas to be aware of:

1. High blood pressure

High blood pressure is the most significant known risk factor for stroke. It means your heart has to work harder to pump blood around your body. A reading consistently above 140/90 mmHg is considered high.
If you are over 18 years, it is recommended to have a blood pressure check by your doctor at least every two years or more often if advised. Stirling Central Health Clinic can also loan you a blood pressure monitor at a small cost, so that you check and diarise your blood pressure reading at home.
For more information on high blood pressure and stroke, click here.

2. Type 2 diabetes

Eighty five percent of all people with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes is higher in people who are:
• Over 55 years of age
• Over 45 years with high blood pressure
• Over 45 years and overweight
• Have a family history of diabetes
For more information about type 2 diabetes, click here.

3. High cholesterol

High cholesterol, also known as hyperlipidaemia, contributes to blood vessel disease, which often leads to stroke. High cholesterol causes a build-up of plaque on the blood vessel walls. The main cause of high cholesterol is a diet high in saturated fats which are fats from animal foods. High cholesterol is also hereditary.

4. Atrial fibrillation or irregular pulse

An irregular pulse or irregular heartbeat is known as atrial fibrillation, or AF. This means that the blood does not move through the heart completely or smoothly. Symptoms include palpitations, weakness, faintness or breathlessness.
For more information, about atrial fibrillation, click here.

If you are worried about any of the conditions listed above, book a check-up with your GP by phoning 8370 9777 or book online here.