Know Your Numbers! Week 2024
It is thought that around 6 million people in the UK have high blood pressure and are not aware of it. High blood pressure is the main cause of strokes and heart attacks in the UK but as it often has no symptoms it goes undetected. Know Your Numbers week aims to reduce that by encouraging people to get a blood pressure check and therefore, taking the first steps to reducing their risk of a stroke or a heart attack. Knowing your numbers means that you can start making lifestyle changes or get medication to help bring your blood pressure down.
Home monitoring is an easy way of checking your blood pressure. You can buy affordable blood pressure monitors from your local pharmacy and check your numbers without having to take have a GP appointment. The NHS have the guide to help you understand your blood pressure reading.
You can also have your blood pressure checked by:
- Making an appointment at your GP surgery and having a GP or the Practice Nurse carry out your blood pressure check.
- Your local pharmacy- some pharmacies offer blood pressure checks. They can also signpost you to support and advice if you need it.
- Some gyms and health clubs
- NHS Health Checks. These may be available in your area if you are aged between 40 and 74 years old. You should be able to get a health check every 5 years. If your GP practice doesn’t contact you, you can contact them and ask for a health check or check with your local authority to see if they can provide one.
If you have a high blood pressure checked anywhere other than your GP practice and you have a high reading you must make a GP appointment. They will advise on what you can do to reduce your blood pressure. The things you can do may include lifestyle changes such as a healthier diet and a more active lifestyle, but could also include medication and lifestyle changes.
