Right now, 6 million people in the UK are thought to have high blood pressure and don’t know it.*
Know Your Numbers week is an annual event in September to remind people about the importance of checking their blood pressure.
Why do you need to check your blood pressure? High blood pressure is symptomless. If it goes unchecked it could result in potentially life-threatening illnesses, such as a stroke or heart attack, so it’s critical to know what your blood pressure is.
What causes high blood pressure?
The causes of high blood pressure aren’t always known.
There are certain things that can increase your risk of getting it, such as being overweight, smoking, your age, lack of exercise, etc.
It can also be a symptom of another health condition like diabetes or can be a side effect of certain medications. The NHS website has further information on the causes of high blood pressure if you would like to know more.
How can I find out what my blood pressure is?
If you’re concerned about your blood pressure or need to monitor it more closely, then you may want to consider getting a blood pressure monitor to use at home. Home blood pressure monitors come in a variety of different styles so you can find one that works for you.
Our Automatic Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor is a great budget-friendly option that has the capacity to record and monitor trends in your blood pressure.
Alternatively, if you don't like the idea of an upper arm monitor, you may want to consider the Beurer BC54 Bluetooth Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor. This clever device takes the reading from your wrist. It can also detect arrhythmia (an irregular heartbeat).
Please check out our full range of blood pressure monitors to find the one best suited to your needs.
What should my blood pressure be?
A normal blood pressure is generally between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg.
If your blood pressure reads between 120/80mmHg and 140/90mmHg then this puts you at risk of developing high blood pressure and so you may want to take steps to lower it. Getting active, cutting down on alcohol, losing weight and stopping smoking can all have a positive impact on your blood pressure. It’s also important to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet that’s low in salt and includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.**
If your blood pressure reads over 140/90mmHg or higher then this suggests that you may have high blood pressure, please speak with your GP for further help and advice.
If you’re not sure what your blood pressure reading means, the NHS have a handy little online test where you can enter the reading from your monitor and see what your next steps should be.
Please speak with your GP if you ever have any concerns about your blood pressure. They will be able to offer you further help and support.
*https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/know-your-numbers/why-is-know-your-numbers-needed/
**https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/high-blood-pressure-hypertension/prevention/