To make matters worse, high blood pressure is a dangerous health condition, and most people only find out they have it as soon as they are rushed to the hospital – usually due to a heart attack or stroke. Professor Jamie Waterwall, national leader in the prevention of cardiovascular disease at Public Health England (PHE), commented on the condition. “High blood pressure is the country’s biggest cause of heart attacks and strokes,” he said.
“If you’m older than 40, it’s an easy way to get your free NHS health examination to determine your blood pressure as well as the risk of other conditions.”
Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure can lead to headaches and dizziness.
The health condition can also cause someone to experience unexplained nosebleeds.
It can also lead to chest pain, shortness of breath and / or blurred vision.
The best way to check if you are suffering from high blood pressure is to measure your blood pressure.
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This can be done at the GP, at some pharmacies and at your convenience.
Called a blood pressure monitor, a high blood pressure monitor can be purchased at BHF.
The cheapest option on their website starts at £ 19.99, with the most expensive £ 119.99.
It is important to buy a reliable blood pressure monitor to read accurately.
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Alternatively, you can buy a blood pressure monitor at large supermarkets or pharmacies.
How to read the results
A normal blood pressure reading is below 140 / 90mmHg – which shows the systolic and diastolic readings.
The systolic number is the first number that tells you the pressure exerted when the heart is beating.
Meanwhile, the diastolic number gives you the pressure between beats when the heart relaxes.
People with a heart or blood circulation, diabetes or kidney disease have an ideal blood pressure reading of less than 130 / 80mmHg.
Visit the BHF website for detailed video instructions on how to measure your blood pressure at home.
If you already have a blood pressure monitor, the BHF recommends that the device be serviced every two years.
“It needs to be serviced and calibrated regularly to make sure it is accurate,” the charity said.
“This usually involves returning it to the manufacturer, who is likely to charge a fee,” the BHF added.
If the reading is higher than you want, lifestyle adjustments can help lower your blood pressure reading.
This includes exercising regularly – for at least 150 minutes a week – and maintaining a healthy weight.
In addition, it is helpful to eat a healthy balanced diet, reduce salt and drink less alcohol.