One in three people in the UK are living with high blood pressure, although at least 5 million people are not diagnosed.
High blood pressure shows no symptoms but if it is undiscovered, could lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Blood Pressure Week aims to encourage people (especially those over 40) to get their blood pressure checked, potentially saving thousands of lives each year. This week, volunteers are offering free blood pressure checks at hundreds of “pressure stations” in hospitals and pharmacies around the UK.
Alternatively, you can visit your GP to get checked.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the pressure of blood in your blood vessels (arteries).
Lifestyle Treatments to Lower High Blood Pressure:
- Eat less much salt
- Eat more fruit and vegetables
- Get more active
- Keep to a healthy weight
- Drink less alcohol
- Reduce Stress
Who should get checked?
- Older people
- People who have a previous high reading
- People with diabetes