Blood Pressure Monitoring: Why It Matters and Our Free NHS Service
High blood pressure often has no symptoms but can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Learn about our free NHS blood pressure check service.
Blood Pressure Monitoring: Why It Matters and Our Free NHS Service
High blood pressure—often called the "silent killer"—affects around 1 in 3 adults in the UK. Many people don't know they have it because it rarely causes symptoms until serious damage has occurred.
At Pulteney Pharmacy, we offer free NHS blood pressure checks to help you stay on top of your health.
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against your artery walls. It's measured in two numbers:
- Systolic (top number): Pressure when your heart beats
- Diastolic (bottom number): Pressure between beats
What Do the Numbers Mean?
| Reading | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 120/80 | Ideal |
| 120-129/80-84 | Normal |
| 130-139/85-89 | High-normal |
| 140/90 or higher | High blood pressure |
Why High Blood Pressure Matters
Persistently high blood pressure damages your blood vessels and organs over time, significantly increasing your risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease
- Vascular dementia
- Eye damage
The frightening reality? You can have dangerously high blood pressure for years without knowing it.
Who Should Get Checked?
Everyone over 40 should have their blood pressure checked at least every 5 years—more often if you have risk factors:
- Family history of high blood pressure
- Overweight or obese
- African or Caribbean heritage
- High salt diet
- Lack of exercise
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Stress
- Existing health conditions
Our Free NHS Blood Pressure Check Service
As part of NHS community pharmacy services, we offer free blood pressure checks. No appointment necessary—simply walk in.
What to Expect
- Brief lifestyle questionnaire
- Seated rest period (5 minutes)
- Blood pressure measurement (usually 2-3 readings)
- Results explained to you immediately
- Advice and referral if needed
The whole process takes about 10-15 minutes.
What Happens Next?
- Normal reading: Continue monitoring annually
- Elevated reading: We may offer ambulatory monitoring (24-hour BP device)
- High reading: Referral to your GP with our documented results
Tips for Accurate Readings
For the most accurate result:
- Avoid caffeine and smoking 30 minutes before
- Empty your bladder
- Sit quietly for 5 minutes beforehand
- Don't talk during the measurement
- Keep your arm supported at heart level
Taking Control of Your Blood Pressure
If your blood pressure is elevated, lifestyle changes can make a real difference:
- Reduce salt to less than 6g daily
- Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly (at least 150 minutes weekly)
- Limit alcohol
- Stop smoking
- Manage stress
Book Your Free Check Today
Don't wait for symptoms that may never come. Know your numbers.
📞 01225 466454 | 📍 35 Great Pulteney Street, Bath
Walk in for your free blood pressure check
Your heart will thank you.