Feeling fine does not tell you the reading
High blood pressure often has no symptoms. A pharmacy or GP check is useful even if you feel well. One reading may need confirmation through home or ambulatory monitoring. The NHS uses different thresholds for clinic and home readings; use the interpretation given by your healthcare professional rather than choosing whichever number looks better.
If you are measuring at home
Use a validated upper-arm monitor with the right cuff size and follow the instructions you have been given. Sit quietly, support your arm and avoid talking during the measurement. Keep a record of the readings, dates and circumstances, including any symptoms. Bring the record and your medicine list to your review. A rushed measurement after climbing the stairs is not the same as a properly taken resting reading.
Choose a change you can repeat
- Compare salt on foods you buy regularly and try a lower-salt alternative you enjoy.
- Fit a manageable walk or another suitable activity into the week.
- If you smoke, ask about stop-smoking support.
- Discuss alcohol and any medicine or supplement that may affect blood pressure with your clinician.
- Ask when to review both readings and treatment if your weight changes.
Know when a reading is not the main issue
Sudden chest pain that does not go away, particularly with breathlessness, sweating or pain spreading to an arm or jaw, needs emergency help: call 999. Do not wait to repeat a blood-pressure reading or leave a message in My Timber. For other worrying symptoms or very high readings, seek prompt medical advice following the instructions from your clinician and the linked NHS guidance.