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3:08 PM 5th May 2021
lifestyle

Heart Research UK Healthy Tip - Check Your Blood Pressure

 
Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by Dr Helen Flaherty, Head of Health Promotion at Heart Research UK

One in three people in the UK has high blood pressure (hypertension), however many people are unaware because there are usually no symptoms. High blood pressure increases your risk of a heart attack or stroke. The only way to know if your blood pressure is high is to have it checked.

What is high blood pressure?

When blood pressure is measured, two numbers are generated. An ideal blood pressure is below 120/80 millimetres of mercury (mmHg). If the first number is above 140 and/or the second number is above 90, this is regarded as high blood pressure.


Blood pressure checks

Blood pressure checks are quick and easy and can be life-saving. You can ask your GP or pharmacist to check your blood pressure (not all pharmacies offer this service). You could also consider investing in a home blood pressure monitor.

Tips for healthy blood pressure

Maintain a healthy weight
Stay physically active
Reduce the amount of salt in your diet
Eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables daily
Keep your alcohol consumption within recommended limits
Get a good night’s sleep

Heart Research UK
Proud to stand out from the crowd, Heart Research UK is the charity dedicated to your heart. They inspire and invest in pioneering medical research, ground-breaking training and education, and in communities to improve their heart health for themselves. For over 50 years they have driven advancements in the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease to benefit patients as soon as possible.


You can find more healthy tips, recipes and advice at heartresearch.org.uk.