Millions of people in England may have undiagnosed high blood pressure, and the NHS is encouraging more people over 40 to get a blood pressure check. While high blood pressure often has no warning symptoms, it can lead to heart attacks and strokes. A third of cases may be undiagnosed, which translates to 4.2 million people in England.
Free checks can be obtained from many local pharmacies and GP surgeries. The risk factors for high blood pressure include being overweight, drinking too much alcohol, and smoking. Making lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake and quitting smoking can help, as well as medication.
High blood pressure is a major cause of premature death and can result in life-threatening conditions when heart and blood vessels experience strain. The ideal blood pressure range is from 90 over 60mmHg to 120 over 80mmHg. Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg), and the higher number represents systolic pressure while the lower is diastolic pressure.
Graeme Souness, former footballer and TV pundit, whose high blood pressure led to a heart attack, is backing the campaign. He emphasized the importance of getting one’s blood pressure checked regularly, stating, “I’ve had high blood pressure for years but have been able to manage it with a routine of healthy eating, regular fitness, and regular blood pressure checks.” The NHS has expanded its pharmacy offering to include 2.5 million more blood pressure checks within local pharmacies
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