You may feel well and still have high blood pressure
High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Over time it can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and heart failure. Regular measurements help detect it and guide treatment.
Measure with care
Use a validated upper-arm monitor with the correct cuff size; avoid exercise, caffeine and smoking for 30 minutes beforehand. Sit quietly for five minutes with feet flat and your arm supported at heart level. Take two readings one minute apart and keep a dated record.
Look at the pattern, not just one reading
Your clinician considers repeated readings and overall health; do not change medicines yourself. For a reading over 180/120 mmHg, repeat after one minute and seek urgent advice if it remains high. With chest pain, breathlessness, weakness, confusion or visual changes, seek emergency care immediately.