You'll also get information about what to do next. If you have a recent blood pressure reading use the NHS Check your blood pressure tool to understand what your reading means. Your blood pressure reading can tell you how healthy your blood pressure is. Understanding your blood pressure reading For example, a blood pressure given as '120 over 80' or 120/80mmHg means a systolic pressure of 120mmHg and a diastolic pressure of 80mmHg. The highest number is always the systolic pressure and it's always given first.

diastolic pressure – the pressure when your heart rests between beats and blood is pushed around your heart.

systolic pressure – the pressure when your heart pushes blood out around your body.

How blood pressure is measuredīlood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and is given as 2 numbers:

You should get the results straight away. If a healthcare professional is doing this for you, they may also use a stethoscope to record your blood pressure.Īn automatic device usually picks up the measurements from sensors in the arm cuff, which are sent to a digital display. It's important to relax and not talk during this time, because this is when your blood pressure is measured. This can feel uncomfortable but it only lasts a few seconds. The cuff is usually wrapped around your upper arm and filled with air until it feels tight. You can get your blood pressure tested at a number of places, including:īlood pressure machines vary, but they're all a type of measuring device, which often have an arm cuff attached to it. If you have been diagnosed with high or low blood pressure, or you have a high risk of developing either, you may need more frequent checks of your blood pressure. If you're over 40, you can have this test done as part of an NHS Health Check, which is offered to adults in England aged 40 to 74 every 5 years. You should have a blood pressure test if you're worried about your blood pressure at any time.

When and where to get your blood pressure tested Having this quick test is the only way to find out what your blood pressure is – and it could save your life. High blood pressure (hypertension) can increase your risk of developing serious problems, such as heart attacks and strokes, if it's not treated. Low blood pressure (hypotension) is not usually a problem, although it can cause dizziness and fainting in some people. A blood pressure test checks if your blood pressure is healthy, or if it's high or low.īlood pressure is the term used to describe the strength with which your blood pushes on the sides of your arteries as it's pumped around your body.

Home blood pressure chart printable