Know Your Numbers Week, which runs from 7 to 13 September, is the UK’s biggest annual blood pressure testing and awareness event. Hundreds of organisations take part, providing “pressure stations” in public places, such as hospitals and supermarkets.
According to the charity that runs the campaign, Blood Pressure UK, about a third of people in the UK have high blood pressure, but most are unaware of it because there are no symptoms.
Keep reading to learn more about blood pressure and discover practical ways to keep yours within a healthy range.
What blood pressure is and why it’s important
Your heart supplies the tissues and organs of the body with blood. Every pump sends blood along the arteries to where it’s needed.
As it passes through, the blood puts pressure on the artery walls. This is called blood pressure.
If it stays too high for a prolonged period, this puts strain on your heart and other organs, which could increase the risk of serious medical conditions, such as strokes and heart disease.
According to Blood Pressure UK, high blood pressure is the third biggest risk factor for all disease in the UK after smoking and poor diet. The only way to know if you have this condition is to have your blood pressure measured.
Understanding the numbers
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers, one on top of the other:
Systolic blood pressure – The first (top) number measures the force when your heart contracts and pumps blood out.
Diastolic blood pressure – The second (bottom) number measures the force when your heart relaxes between beats.
An ideal blood pressure is between 90/60 and 120/80. If yours falls below 90/60, this is likely to be classed as low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness, fainting, and blurred vision. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher, and there are often no warning signs, which is why getting tested is so important.
What happens when you have a blood pressure test
A blood pressure test is a simple and safe procedure that usually takes just a few minutes.
Here’s what to expect:
- You’ll be asked to sit down and roll up your sleeve on one arm
- With your arm outstretched, you can rest it on the table in front of you and relax
- A medical professional will then place an inflatable armband around your upper arm
- The armband will gradually fill with air and tighten. This may feel slightly uncomfortable for a few seconds until the armband deflates.
For most people, it’s a painless test that’s over quickly.
Why you might need to get your blood pressure checked
According to the NHS website, there are a few times when you might be given a blood pressure test, including:
- If a medical professional thinks you may have low or high blood pressure
- To check if high blood pressure is linked to other medical conditions
- To monitor your health status while you’re a hospital patient
- If you’re taking medicine for a long-term condition
- As part of antenatal care during pregnancy
- As part of a general health check.
It’s especially important to get tested if you have a greater risk of high blood pressure. For example, if you’re aged 40 or over, or you have close relatives with this condition.
Remember, the test is generally quick and painless. So, if you’re not sure whether you need one, it might be wise to err on the side of caution and book an appointment.
Where to get a blood pressure test
There are lots of places that offer blood pressure checks, including:
- Most pharmacies (many offer free checks for people over 40)
- GP surgeries
- Some workplaces.
During Know Your Numbers Week, there will also be temporary pressure stations hosted in workplaces, supermarkets, and community hubs. Check the Blood Pressure UK website for details or look for posters in your local pharmacy or doctor’s surgery.
If you’re diagnosed with hypertension (high blood pressure), or you have a high risk of developing it, you might be asked to take measurements at home and share the readings with your GP.
How to maintain healthy blood pressure
The good news is that a few small lifestyle changes could reduce the risk of developing unhealthy blood pressure.
The NHS recommends:
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet
- Exercising regularly (at least 150 minutes a week)
- Losing weight if you’re overweight.
It also suggests avoiding:
- Smoking
- Eating too much salt
- Drinking too much alcohol and caffeine.
Get in touch
Looking after your physical health could support your financial wellbeing by reducing the stress and strain of illness, allowing you to focus on your long-term goals.
If you’d like support planning how to build and preserve the wealth you need for a long and fulfilling life, we can help.
To find out more about how we can help, please get in touch by email at helpme@aspirellp.co.uk or call 0117 9303510.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at individuals only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
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