High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is one of the most common health conditions in the UK. It affects around one in three adults, yet many people have no idea they have it. This is because high blood pressure rarely causes any symptoms. You could feel perfectly fine while your heart and blood vessels are quietly under strain.
The only way to know for sure is to get your blood pressure checked. At Village Pharmacy in Charlton, we offer quick and reliable blood pressure checks to help you take control of your health. It only takes a few minutes, but it could make a big difference to your future wellbeing.
Understanding blood pressure
Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around your body. It is recorded with two numbers.
- The first number, called systolic pressure, shows the pressure when your heart beats.
- The second number, called diastolic pressure, shows the pressure when your heart rests between beats.
A healthy blood pressure reading is generally below 140/90 mmHg, though your target may be lower if you have certain medical conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease.
When blood pressure stays high for a long time, it can damage your arteries, increase your risk of heart disease, and affect your kidneys and brain. That is why it is so important to check it regularly, especially as you get older.
Why high blood pressure is known as the silent killer
High blood pressure does not cause pain or obvious symptoms, which is why it is often called the “silent killer.” You might not know anything is wrong until it leads to something serious such as a heart attack or stroke.
According to NHS England, high blood pressure is responsible for more than half of all heart attacks and strokes in the UK. Early detection through simple checks can prevent many of these cases. The sooner you know your numbers, the sooner you can take steps to bring them under control.
Quick and confidential checks at your local pharmacy
You do not need to wait weeks for a GP appointment. Pharmacies across the country now offer easy blood pressure checks as part of the NHS plan to help people take better control of their health.
At Village Pharmacy, our team provides fast and accurate blood pressure testing for adults of all ages. The process is simple and painless.
- You will sit comfortably while a cuff is placed on your arm.
- The cuff inflates for a few seconds while it measures the pressure in your arteries.
- We will give you your reading straight away and explain what it means.
If your blood pressure is higher than normal, we will guide you on what to do next, such as monitoring it again soon, adjusting lifestyle habits, or speaking to your GP for further checks.
Simple lifestyle changes that make a difference
If your blood pressure is slightly high, small changes can help lower it and improve your overall health:
- Cut down on salt and processed foods
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and whole grains
- Stay physically active and keep a healthy weight
- Limit alcohol and caffeine
- Quit smoking if you do smoke
- Try to manage stress and get enough rest
Even small improvements can have a big impact. Our pharmacists can offer practical advice, recommend suitable products, and help you build healthy habits that fit around your lifestyle.
Regular checks help you stay in control
If you are over 40 or have a family history of high blood pressure, it is worth getting checked at least once a year. Regular monitoring means you can spot any changes early and take action before they become a serious problem.
At Village Pharmacy in Charlton, we can also help you track your readings over time and refer you to your GP if further investigation is needed. It is a quick and reliable way to stay on top of your health without waiting for an appointment.
Take charge of your health today
High blood pressure can go unnoticed for years, but with simple checks and good advice, it can be managed effectively. Protecting your heart starts with knowing your numbers.
