Know Your Numbers! Week is the UK’s biggest blood pressure awareness campaign, encouraging everyone to know their blood pressure and understand why it matters.

High blood pressure (also known as hypertension) often has no symptoms, which is why it’s sometimes called the “silent killer.” Many people don’t realise they have it until it’s picked up during a routine check or after it has caused more serious health problems.

Knowing your blood pressure is one of the simplest ways to take control of your health.

What Is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood around your body.

It’s measured using two numbers:

• Systolic pressure – the pressure when your heart beats.
• Diastolic pressure – the pressure when your heart rests between beats.

A single high reading doesn’t necessarily mean you have high blood pressure, but consistently raised readings should be checked by a healthcare professional.

Why Does It Matter?

High blood pressure increases your risk of developing serious health conditions, including:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Heart failure
• Kidney disease
• Vascular dementia

Because high blood pressure usually doesn’t cause symptoms, regular checks are the best way to detect it early.

Who Should Have Their Blood Pressure Checked?

Adults aged 40 and over are encouraged to have their blood pressure checked regularly, even if they feel well.

You may need more frequent checks if you:

• Have previously had high blood pressure.
• Have diabetes or kidney disease.
• Are overweight.
• Smoke.
• Have a family history of heart disease or stroke.
• Have been advised by your clinician to monitor your blood pressure.

Looking After Your Heart

There are many things you can do to help keep your blood pressure healthy:

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables.
• Reduce your salt intake.
• Stay physically active.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Stop smoking if you smoke.
• Drink alcohol within the recommended guidelines.
• Manage stress and get enough sleep.

Even small lifestyle changes can make a positive difference.

How Our GP Practice Can Help

At Ivel Medical Centre, we’re here to help you look after your heart health.

If you’re concerned about your blood pressure or have been advised to have it checked, please contact the practice. Our clinicians can discuss your cardiovascular health, arrange appropriate blood pressure monitoring where needed, and offer advice on healthy lifestyle changes.

If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, we’ll work with you to help manage your condition and reduce your risk of future health problems.

Take a Simple Step Towards Better Health

This Know Your Numbers! Week, take a few minutes to find out your blood pressure.

Knowing your numbers could help identify problems early, allowing you to take action before complications develop.

If you have any concerns about your blood pressure or your heart health, please contact us to book an appointment with one of our clinicians. We’re here to support you in staying healthy.