Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance

Hypertension
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Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Headache, dizziness, shortness of breath
Complications	Heart disease, stroke, kidney failure
Onset	Gradual
Duration	Long term
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetics, diet, lifestyle
Risks	Obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption
Diagnosis	Blood pressure measurement
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Lifestyle changes, medication
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. It is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.

Signs and Symptoms

Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms until it has caused significant damage to the heart and arteries. Some people with high blood pressure may experience headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

Causes

The exact cause of hypertension is often unknown, but several factors can contribute to its development, including:

• Genetics
• Unhealthy diet, particularly high salt intake
• Lack of physical activity
• Obesity
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Smoking

Diagnosis

Hypertension is diagnosed by measuring blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is generally considered high.

Treatment

Treatment for hypertension typically involves lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes may include:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Reducing salt intake
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking

Medications used to treat hypertension include diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers.

Complications

If left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health problems, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney failure
• Vision loss

Prevention

Preventing hypertension involves adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use.

See Also

• Cardiovascular disease
• Blood pressure
• Heart attack

External Links

• World Health Organization: Hypertension
• CDC: High Blood Pressure
  Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is a charitable organization that provides air ambulance services to the counties of Dorset and Somerset, United Kingdom. Established in 2000, the service plays a critical role in delivering rapid response and medical care to patients in critical conditions across the two counties, which cover a mix of urban, rural, and coastal areas. The air ambulance is equipped with advanced medical equipment and staffed by highly trained medical personnel, including paramedics and doctors, capable of performing life-saving interventions at the scene of an incident or en route to the hospital.

History

The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance was founded with the mission to save lives by providing swift, safe, and direct access to emergency medical care. The service was launched to address the challenges posed by the region's geography, including remote areas difficult to reach quickly by road. Since its inception, the air ambulance has become an integral part of the emergency services in Dorset and Somerset, responding to thousands of calls for assistance each year.

Operations

The air ambulance operates out of a base centrally located between Dorset and Somerset. It is tasked with a wide range of emergency situations, including but not limited to, road traffic collisions, industrial accidents, heart attacks, and strokes. The helicopter can reach most locations within the two counties in under 20 minutes, significantly reducing the time it takes for patients to receive critical care.

The service is available during daylight hours, seven days a week, weather permitting. Its operations are funded entirely by donations from the public, as well as fundraising events and contributions from local businesses and organizations.

Aircraft

The fleet typically includes helicopters that are specially equipped for medical emergencies. These aircraft are chosen for their speed, reliability, and capability to land in tight spaces, which is essential for reaching patients in difficult-to-access locations. The interior of the helicopter is configured like a mobile intensive care unit, with the necessary equipment to monitor and treat patients.

Crew

The medical crew aboard the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance includes paramedics and doctors with specialist training in pre-hospital emergency medicine. These professionals are capable of providing advanced medical care, including administering pain relief, performing intubations, and even conducting surgical procedures at the scene if necessary.

Funding and Support

As a charity, the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance relies on the generosity of the public and the support of volunteers. Fundraising events, charity shops, and legacy donations are among the key sources of income that enable the air ambulance to continue its life-saving work. The organization also receives support from local businesses and community groups.

Impact

The impact of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance on the local communities it serves is profound. By providing rapid response and advanced medical care, the service significantly improves the survival and recovery rates of patients in critical conditions. The air ambulance also works closely with other emergency services, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the region's emergency response network.