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Silent Killer Alert: Check Your Blood Pressure Now!
8 Sep
Summary
- Millions urged to check blood pressure during Know Your Numbers! Week.
- One in five adults incorrectly believe they'd feel unwell if BP is high.
- Home BP monitoring requires specific steps for accurate readings.
Blood Pressure UK is urging millions to check their blood pressure during the week of September 7-13. The charity highlights that an estimated five million people live with high blood pressure, often unaware due to its silent nature. A recent poll revealed that one in five adults wrongly believe they would feel unwell if their blood pressure was high, and 15% incorrectly think checks are irrelevant for those under 40.
Expert advice is available on how to accurately take blood pressure readings at home. This includes choosing a clinically validated, automatic digital monitor with a correctly fitting upper-arm cuff. It's crucial to avoid taking readings immediately after consuming coffee, food, smoking, or exercising, and to rest quietly for five minutes beforehand.
Proper technique involves sitting comfortably with back support and feet flat, ensuring the cuff is placed correctly around the upper arm, about 2cm above the elbow. Accurate home monitoring also requires taking multiple readings a minute apart and recording them diligently. High blood pressure is generally considered 135/85mmHg or higher when checked at home.
