Blood pressure is a measure of how strongly your blood pushes against the walls of your arteries as it moves around your body.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Many people do not realise they have high blood pressure because it does not usually cause symptoms.
Regular monitoring helps identify high blood pressure early. Early treatment can reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious complications.
What is a normal blood pressure reading?
A healthy blood pressure reading for most people is usually between 90/60 and 120/80 mmHg.
For people over the age of 80, the ideal blood pressure is under 150/90 mmHg (or 145/85 at home).
High blood pressure is typically 140/90 mmHg or higher, although your healthcare professional will explain what your reading means for you.
You can check what your blood pressure reading means using the NHS blood pressure reading tool.
Why checking your blood pressure matters
High blood pressure can damage your blood vessels, heart, brain and kidneys over time. Because it often has no symptoms, checking your blood pressure is one of the best ways to protect your health.
Monitoring can help you:
- spot problems early
- understand your risk of heart disease and stroke
- see whether treatment is working
- make informed lifestyle changes
Where to check your blood pressure
You can check your blood pressure at:
- Using your own monitor at home
- Visiting a participating community pharmacy
- Attending an NHS Health Check (if invited)
- Using a GP surgery blood pressure pod (where available)
- Borrowing a monitor through the Essex County Council library loan scheme
Home monitoring can also help you understand your readings over time.
Blood pressure monitor loan scheme in Essex
Essex libraries offer a free blood pressure monitor loan scheme, making it easier to check your blood pressure at home.
You may benefit from this scheme if you:
- need to monitor your blood pressure regularly
- are waiting for a GP appointment
- want to check your readings before buying a monitor
Each loan pack includes:
- a blood pressure monitor
- arm cuff
- recording diary
- instruction leaflet
You can usually borrow the equipment for up to two weeks, subject to availability.
This scheme is only available in Essex County Council libraries. It is not currently offered in Southend or Thurrock.
Walk-in blood pressure monitors in Essex libraries
Some Essex libraries also provide walk-in blood pressure monitors. You can use these machines without an appointment and print your results instantly.
Libraries with walk-in monitors include:
- Basildon
- Billericay
- Braintree
- Brentwood
- Canvey
- Chelmsford
- Clacton
- Colchester
- Harlow
- Loughton
- Maldon
- Rayleigh
- Saffron Walden
- South Woodham Ferrers
- Witham
This service makes it easier to check your blood pressure regularly.
How to lower high blood pressure
There are several things you can do to help lower your blood pressure and improve your overall health.
These include:
- eating a healthy, balanced diet
- reducing salt in your diet
- being physically active
- maintaining a healthy weight
- stopping smoking
- reducing alcohol intake
- taking prescribed medication as advised
Your GP, pharmacist or nurse can help you understand the best approach for you.
When to seek urgent medical help
Call 999 immediately if you or someone else has:
- sudden chest pain
- severe shortness of breath
- weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- facial drooping
These symptoms may be linked to a heart attack or stroke and need urgent attention.