Blood Pressure (BP) Screening

No matter your age, it is important to consistently measure your blood pressure levels. High blood pressure rarely shows visible symptoms and can contribute to serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke. 

Measuring your blood pressure is now easier than ever. Instead of having to visit your doctor to stay on top of your blood pressure levels, you can now visit your local pharmacy for a BP check if the pharmacy offers this service. You can also buy a home testing device usually an Automated Blood Pressure Monitor

How is blood pressure measured?

Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and is given as 2 figures:

• Systolic pressure – the pressure when your heart pushes blood out
• Diastolic pressure – the pressure when your heart rests between beats

For example, if your blood pressure is "140 over 90" or 140/90mmHg, it means you have a systolic pressure of 140mmHg and a diastolic pressure of 90mmHg.

According to the NHS Blood Pressure Test website NHS BP as a general guide:

• ideal blood pressure is considered to be between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg
• high blood pressure is considered to be 140/90mmHg or higher (135/85 or higher if reading was taken at home)
• low blood pressure is considered to be below 90/60mmHg

Pharmacy and at-home blood pressure monitoring is a great way for your customers to monitor their Blood Pressure; If any concerns identified being referred to their GP. Majority of pharmacies stock blood pressure monitors patients to then purchase from themselves.  See attached information on the Numark BP device