Blood Pressure Checks
High blood pressure (also known as hypertension) affects one in three adults in the UK and it can lead to potentially life-threatening conditions if left untreated, such as strokes and heart problems, as well as causing damage to your other vital organs.
Being aware of the risks involved with high blood pressure, monitoring your health and knowing how to go about reducing your risks is essential – and having regular blood pressure checks is one of the best ways to go about ensuring that you continue to enjoy good health.
During a blood pressure check, one of the Newdays Pharmacy team will invite you into a private consultation room to take your blood pressure, with your results explained to you then and there, with the appropriate advice and support on offer to help you manage your blood pressure. It may be necessary to refer you to your GP, depending on the results.
Who is at risk of high blood pressure?
All adults are at risk of developing high blood pressure and it’s possible to have hypertension without exhibiting any symptoms, which is why having regular checkups is so important as this can reveal any hidden issues that you may not be aware of.
You are at higher risk of increased blood pressure if you have a family history of the condition or of heart disease, if you’re older (above the age of 60), if you’re overweight and don’t get much exercise, if you drink excessive amounts of alcohol, if your diet is high in salt and if you don’t eat five portions of fruit and veg a day.
Blood pressure tests don’t take long and your checkup appointment should only take 15 minutes or so to complete. However, our pharmacists will be on hand to answer any questions you may have during your appointment.
Understanding your results
Your blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury and your reading is made up of two numbers, one on the top and one on the bottom.
The top number is the systolic pressure, which is the highest pressure when your heart beats to push blood around your body. The bottom number is the diastolic pressure, which is the lowest level of blood pressure when your heart relaxes between beats.
The ideal blood pressure reading is between 90/60 and 120/80. A high blood pressure reading is 140/90 or higher and a low blood pressure reading is anything lower than 90/60.
What Happens If My Blood Pressure Is High?
If your reading comes back high during your appointment, there is no need to worry. Our pharmacist will explain your results clearly and advise you on the best next steps. Depending on the reading, this may include:
Lifestyle advice; guidance on diet, physical activity, alcohol intake and reducing salt consumption
ABPM or HBPM; a 24 hour monitor to gather an accurate blood pressure reading or checks conducted at home
GP referral; if your reading is significantly elevated or if you have other risk factors, we will refer you to your GP for same day assessment
Medication review; if you are already taking blood pressure medication, our pharmacist can review your current treatment and liaise with your GP if an adjustment may be needed
How to Keep Your Blood Pressure Healthy
Making positive lifestyle changes is one of the most effective ways to manage and reduce high blood pressure. Our pharmacists can offer personalised guidance, but general steps that are known to help include:
Reducing your salt intake to less than 5-6g per day
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and whole grains
Maintaining a healthy weight through regular physical activity (aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week)
Cutting back on alcohol; keeping within the recommended guidelines of no more than 14 units per week
Stopping smoking; smoking raises blood pressure and significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke
Managing stress through relaxation techniques, adequate sleep and regular breaks
Why choose Newdays Pharmacy
Here at Newdays Pharmacy, we offer a range of private and NHS services. You can find out more about us online and book an appointment with one of our pharmacists in your preferred branch.
- Quick and convenient; blood pressure checks take around 15 minutes and are available at all four Newdays branches
- Private consultation room; all checks are carried out in a confidential setting with full privacy
- No GP referral needed; walk-in or booked appointments available without needing to see your GP first
- Results explained clearly; your pharmacist will explain your reading and what it means for your health in plain language
- NHS and private services; we support both NHS patients and private individuals across Windsor, Eton, Lane End, Twyford and Reading (Coley Park)
How it works
Book your appointment
Book online or simply walk in to your nearest branch no GP referral needed. Most appointments take around 15 minutes.
Sit down with our pharmacist
One of our trained pharmacists will invite you into a private consultation room and place a cuff around your upper arm to take your reading quickly and comfortably
Get your results & advice
Your results are explained to you on the spot. Our pharmacist will advise on next steps whether that's lifestyle guidance, monitoring at home, or a referral to your GP if needed.
FAQ
Common Questions & Answers
Can I check my blood pressure at a pharmacy without an appointment?
Yes, most pharmacies offer walk-in blood pressure checks without needing a GP appointment. The process is quick and helps detect early signs of hypertension.
How is a blood pressure reading taken?
A cuff is placed around your upper arm and inflated to measure systolic and diastolic pressure using a digital monitor. The reading is available within minutes.
Who should get regular blood pressure checks?
Adults over 40, people with diabetes, smokers, and those with a family history of hypertension should monitor their blood pressure regularly.
How often should blood pressure be monitored?
If your readings are normal, an annual check is usually enough. More frequent monitoring may be needed if you have high blood pressure or are on medication.
What is considered a high blood pressure reading?
A reading of 140/90 mmHg or above is generally considered high and may require further monitoring or medical advice.