NHS Mid and South Essex is raising awareness about regular blood pressure checks.
High blood pressure has no symptoms and can cause serious heart and circulatory illnesses.
Take five minutes out of your day to get checked.
Mike, 81, from Maldon, had a routine blood pressure check. This reading showed he had high blood pressure. He shares his story:
“The pharmacist at my local GP practice contacted me. He wanted to review my blood pressure and the medicines I was taking. My blood pressure reading was high. At the time, I didn’t realise how high this was.
He raised the dosage of one of my medicines. This was to try and bring my blood pressure down. I started checking my blood pressure at home and monitored this for two months. I found the blood pressure monitor easy to use.
“During the first month, I took 20 blood pressure readings. On average, my blood pressure had reduced but was still slightly high. I discussed this with the practice pharmacist. He suggested increasing one of my blood pressure medicines again.
“In the second month, I took 18 blood pressure readings This showed my blood pressure had reduced again. I spoke to the pharmacist again. We agreed that this level was fine. He also said I should keep checking my blood pressure randomly. I must let him know if this changes.
“I have changed my lifestyle to keep my blood pressure at this level. I eat more fruit and have stopped eating processed food.
“Working with the practice pharmacist made a big difference. The one-to-one consultations were helpful. I am thankful for the time they took to help me.
“It is important to know your blood pressure. It is a key sign of your health. I recommend having a blood pressure check.”
For more information about blood pressure and your health, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
Find out more about high blood pressure at the NHS Mid and South Essex Invincible Feeling Invisible Danger page.
Invincible Feeling, Invisible Danger