4th September 2023
Know Your Numbers! Week raises awareness of checking your blood pressure and knowing your numbers to help stop stroke and heart disease. It could help save your life!
High blood pressure can be known as ‘the silent killer’ because it can be a major cause of strokes and heart disease. Knowing your numbers means you can start making healthy lifestyle changes or start taking medicines if you need them to bring your blood pressure down to a healthy level. So it’s essential to make the time to check your blood pressure to see if it’s under control.
It’s never too early or late to start checking your blood pressure. Your blood pressure is very important no matter your age. High blood pressure rarely has any symptoms. The only way to know what your blood pressure (BP) is to have it measured.
High blood pressure is more common as you get older so it is important to get it checked regularly.
It is recommended that you have your blood pressure checked at least every 5 years, however, if you are at greater risk due to factors such as a family history of high blood pressure, you may wish to get it checked more regularly.
People with type 2 diabetes should have their blood pressure checked annually.
To get your blood pressure checked, make an appointment with your GP or buy a blood pressure machine for home monitoring.
When and how often you take your readings will depend on your blood pressure. Speak to your doctor or nurse about what’s suitable for you. Blood Pressure UK, the charity that run the week, have lots of helpful online resources on measuring your blood pressure at home.
Chest, Heart and Stroke also have a helpful video on using at blood pressure monitoring device at home.