High blood pressure (Hypertension)
The new Hypnotension programme uses cognitive and hypnotherapeutic techniques to deal with the lifestyle and emotional factors which contribute to high blood pressure, making it easier for people to take back control and stay motivated so the lifestyle changes stick.
Paul Howard, co-founder of 'Hypnotension' says: “If even more people with primary hypertension took simple steps to tackle the lifestyle factors that cause their high blood pressure, it would save the NHS millions of pounds on blood pressure medication, not to mention slashing the burden of stroke and heart disease.
“All the medical profession can do is manage the symptoms. For the patient this usually involves a lifetime of medication which is both expensive and involves some potentially serious side effects.
His colleague and co-founder, Rob Woodgate, adds: “Everyone with primary hypertension can do something to help themselves, whether it is cutting down on salt, losing a few pounds, or getting a little bit more exercise.
“Even small changes add up. Studies have shown that even if you only manage to lower your blood pressure by 2.5/1.4mmHg , you will still slash your risk of dying from a stroke by 12-14% and heart disease by 9-10%. That in turn will save the NHS millions in healthcare and drug costs.”
Research confirms that changes in lifestyle can have a big impact on high blood pressure. A study in 2004 showed that, within 12 weeks of making lifestyle changes, more than 60% of those with high blood pressure met their blood pressure goals, without the use of medication.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), who develop the guidelines for high quality care in the NHS, also recognise the importance of lifestyle changes. In their latest clinical guideline (CG127, August 2011), they say:
“The current evidence cannot determine whether a lifestyle intervention is generally better than drug treatment for reducing blood pressure… Thus it seems important that patients are encouraged to try lifestyle changes before proceeding to or increasing drug therapy.”
The Hypnotension programme is currently being rolled out across the country, and the creators believe it not only has the potential to save the NHS millions every year and help to cut GP waiting times, but more importantly, will assist sufferers of high blood pressure to make lifestyle changes which can significantly reduce their risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and high cholesterol.
There is a network of specially trained Hypnotension practitioners throughout the UK, which is growing rapidly as even more qualified Hypnotherapists train in the Hypnotension approach.
*** Notes for Editors ***
For pictures or media interviews contact:
Paul Howard
info@hypnotension.com
020 3397 4343
About the Hypnotension Programme
The Hypnotension Programme has been designed to meet the needs of people who have high blood pressure (primary hypertension)
About Hypnotension Ltd
Hypnotension is a collaboration between two experienced hypnotherapists, with combined experience of nearly 20 years. Both are passionate about helping reduce the burden of hypertension, and they have created the Hypnotension programme so that hypnotherapists around the world can make a positive supporting contribution alongside primary medical care.
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The Hypnotension™
