blood pressure TEST

Having a normal blood pressure is very important to your health. A blood pressure test consists of two figures and reads something like 120/80. The first figure is called systolic blood pressure and is the pressure of blood against the arteries when the heart is pumping out. The second (or bottom) figure called the diastolic blood pressure is the pressure at rest in the arteries when the heart is not pumping.

What is High Blood Pressure?

This is normally regarded as a reading higher than 140/90, but anything over 120/80 could mean you are at a greater risk of developing high blood pressure.

How do I know if I have High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure or hypertension usually has no symptoms. The only way to tell is by having a reading. 1 in 4 people in the UK have high blood pressure so it’s worth keeping a check and know your numbers.

How often should I have my Blood Pressure taken?

It’s recommended that all adults over 40 years of age have their blood pressure tested at least every 5 years.

What do I need to know before having a Blood Pressure Test?

Wear a short sleeve top or one with loose sleeves so we can get to your arm easily without clothing having to be removed. It’s probably better if you haven’t exercised or eaten a large meal or drunk alcohol or strong coffee an hour or so before your test.

What happens in the Blood Pressure Test?

You’ll be seated in a private room and asked to have both feet comfortably on the floor and to relax. A cuff connected to a blood pressure monitor is wrapped around your upper arm and gently pumped up with air. This can squeeze slightly and may be a little uncomfortable until it slowly releases. We’ll take this measurement on both arms and provide you with the 3 readings. If you need to see your Doctors our specially trained Pharmacists will advise this. We will also advise on any lifestyle changes that may be needed.

What are the Risk factors for developing Hypertension?

Age
Diabetes
African, Caribbean or South-Asian descent
High cholesterol
Family history of high blood pressure or stroke
Obesity or an unhealthy lifestyle
Smoking

What are the effects of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can damage your arteries and internal organs. It can lead to heart failure and stroke.

If you want to monitor your blood pressure at home we can also recommend and demonstrate one of our Home Blood Pressure monitors. If purchased at your appointment we will deduct the £7.50 test fee.