Free Blood Pressure Checks and Why they are important

Free Blood Pressure Checks for Over 40s – No Appointment Needed at S G Barai Pharmacy

Keeping track of your health is essential, and one of the easiest yet most important health checks you can do is monitoring your blood pressure. At S G Barai Pharmacy, we offer a free blood pressure check for anyone over 40 – no appointment needed!

High blood pressure (also called hypertension) often has no symptoms, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications. Getting your blood pressure checked regularly can help detect potential issues early and keep your heart healthy.

What is a Healthy Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded as two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (top number) – The force at which your heart pumps blood around your body.

• Diastolic pressure (bottom number) – The resistance to the blood flow in your arteries.

Blood Pressure Categories (NHS Guidelines):

• Normal: Below 120/80 mmHg

• Elevated: Between 120-129 / 80 mmHg

• High (Hypertension Stage 1): Between 130-139 / 80-89 mmHg

• High (Hypertension Stage 2): 140/90 mmHg or higher

If your reading is consistently above 140/90 mmHg, it’s essential to take action to lower it.

Why is Checking Blood Pressure Important?

1 in 3 adults in the UK has high blood pressure, but many don’t realize it. Known as the "silent killer," hypertension increases the risk of:

• Heart disease – Leading to heart attacks and heart failure.

• Stroke – High blood pressure can weaken arteries in the brain.

• Kidney disease – High pressure damages kidney function over time.

• Dementia – Linked to poor blood flow to the brain.

Getting your blood pressure checked regularly is one of the most effective ways to prevent these serious health conditions.

What Happens If Your Blood Pressure is High?

If your reading is above normal, don’t worry! Our trained pharmacy team will provide personalized advice on lifestyle changes and possible treatments. We may recommend:

Non-Pharmacological (Lifestyle) Treatments:

• Healthy Diet – Reduce salt, eat more fruits and vegetables, and limit processed foods.

• Exercise – Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (e.g., brisk walking, cycling).

• Weight Management – Losing even 5-10% of body weight can significantly lower blood pressure.

• Reducing Alcohol and Caffeine – Excessive intake can elevate blood pressure.

• Managing Stress – Relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help.

• Quitting Smoking – Smoking damages blood vessels, raising blood pressure.

Pharmacological Treatments (Medication):

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your GP may prescribe medications such as:

• ACE Inhibitors – Relax blood vessels to lower pressure.

• Beta-Blockers – Reduce heart rate and workload.

• Diuretics – Help the body remove excess salt and water.

• Calcium Channel Blockers – Relax blood vessels to improve blood flow.

Why is Early Intervention So Important?

Ignoring high blood pressure can lead to severe complications down the line. Studies show that lowering blood pressure by just 10 mmHg reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes by 20%. Taking early action can prevent serious health issues and help you live a longer, healthier life.

Get Your Free Blood Pressure Check Today!

At S G Barai Pharmacy, we’re making it easier than ever to stay on top of your health. If you’re over 40, you can walk in anytime for a free blood pressure check – no appointment needed! Our friendly pharmacy team is here to help, offering expert advice and support to keep your blood pressure in a healthy range.

👉 Visit S G Barai Pharmacy today – your heart will thank you!