Although common, high blood pressure can cause serious issues such as heart attacks and strokes if left untreated
Scheduling a GP appointment solely for a blood pressure check can seem like a hassle. So, you might be pleased to learn that certain pharmacies across England offer free blood pressure examinations to eligible people.
According to the NHS, this scheme is intended for people over 40 living in England who aren’t aware they have high blood pressure. If you know you have high blood pressure or have had these levels checked in the last six months, you also will not qualify for this examination.
Like any other blood pressure check, these appointments generally involve a pharmacist or team member wrapping a cuff around the upper arm to take a measurement. Depending on the result, you may then be advised to see a GP, given advice to support healthy living, or issued with your own monitor to take with you before returning later.
Official NHS advice has explained: “If you’re registered with a GP surgery, your blood pressure reading will be added to your GP health record. It will not be shared with anyone unless your blood pressure is very high or very low and you need urgent medical help.”
Although common, high blood pressure can cause serious issues such as heart attacks and strokes if left untreated. It can be affected by various factors, such as your age, ethnicity, and food intake, especially if your diet is high in salt.
High blood pressure can cause symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, and chest pain, but it is usually completely without symptoms. Therefore, taking a blood pressure test is the only definitive way to diagnose it.
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“If your blood pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your blood vessels, heart and other organs, such as your brain, kidneys and eyes,” NHS guidance has also stated. “…Lowering your blood pressure even a small amount can help reduce your risk of these problems.”
If you believe you’re eligible for a free blood pressure check as part of the scheme, visit the NHS website to locate the nearest participating pharmacy. You can use the search bar to enter your town, city, or postcode in England.
Anyone else concerned about their blood pressure or symptoms is advised to see a GP or call 111 for further guidance.
What is a ‘high’ blood pressure reading?
Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers, with the first being higher than the second. According to the NHS, if you are under 80 years old, a reading is typically considered high if it is:
- 140/90 or higher when checked by a healthcare professional
- 135/85 or higher when checked at home
For people aged 80 and above, a blood pressure reading is generally considered high if it is:
- 150/90 or higher when checked by a healthcare professional
- 145/85 or higher when checked at home