Page 58 & 59 - Back to Fitness_Double Page Editorial 10/05/2021 14:10 Page 1
You can’t beat a healthy heart... More than 14 million adults in the UK have high blood pressure resulting in an increased risk of heart diseases and stroke... Check Your Blood Pressure
One in three people in the UK has high blood pressure (hypertension), however many people are unaware of it as there are usually no symptoms. High blood pressure increases your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. The only way to know if your blood pressure is high is to have it measured. We explain what blood pressure is and provide some tips for keeping your blood pressure healthy. What is high blood pressure?
When blood pressure is measured, two numbers are generated. An ideal blood pressure is below 120/80 millimetres of mercury (mmHg). The first number is the systolic blood pressure (higher number), which is the force at which blood is being pumped around your body. Ideally, this will be below 120. A systolic blood pressure of 140 or more is regarded as high. The second number is the diastolic blood pressure (lower number) which is the pressure when your heart is at rest, in between beats. Ideally this will be 80 or lower. A diastolic reading of 90 or above is regarded as high. The lower your blood pressure, the lower your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Get your blood pressure checked
The only way to know if your blood pressure is high is to have it checked. Blood pressure checks are quick and easy, and it could be lifesaving. Adults aged 40 years or over should aim to have their blood pressure checked at least every five years. You can ask your GP to check your blood pressure, or you may be able to have your blood pressure checked with your local pharmacy. You could also consider investing in a home blood pressure monitor.
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