Blood pressure
What is blood pressure?
Blood pressure is the pressure of blood in your arteries. The numbers show how hard your blood is pushing against the sides of your blood vessels (arteries) as it travels round your body.
When it is measured you may be told that it is "120 over 80". The “120” number is the systolic pressure, when you heart pushes blood around your body. The “80” number is the diastolic pressure, when your heart relaxes.
However, readings that are consistently at or above “140 over 90” could spell trouble and will need to be treated.
The silent killer.
High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, which is why many people are not aware they have it. Hence its name, the 'silent killer'.
Untreated it can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and heart failure. High blood pressure is also a risk factor for kidney disease, dementia and some eye conditions.
The good news is that high blood pressure can be treated and often prevented, and there is a lot you can do to lower your risk. You can adopt a healthier lifestyle to help lower your blood pressure, though some people may also need to take medicine prescribed by their doctor.
However, we advise you to have regular checks. Keep a record yourself and remember the numbers in the same way as your height and weight. In other words, Know your Numbers!® - and encourage your family and friends to do the same.
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