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This September we're embracing Know your numbers week. Around a third of people in the UK have high blood pressure, but most don't know it, because there are no symptoms. The only way to find out is to have a blood pressure check. High blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, strokes and other illnesses. Once you know your numbers you can get support and bring your blood pressure under control to prevent these diseases.
One of our colleagues shared his story after taking his blood pressure whilst at work.
'When I tested my blood pressure I had a reading of 180/120, I let my manager know and he told me to visit my GP for further checks. My GP highlighted some other symptoms which I could relate to and after further consultation I was told that I was dangerously close to having a stroke... a silent killer. I had to make some lifestyle changes and will be on medication for the rest of my life but I'm so glad that I checked my blood pressure at NEXT!'
Know your numbers
Blood pressure is the pressure of blood in your arteries - the vessels that carry your blood from your heart to your brain and the rest of your body. You need some pressure to get the blood moving around your body so it can deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and organs to keep you alive. If your blood pressure is always high, it can increase your risk of health problems such as heart attack, stroke and kidney failure. The good news is you can help control your blood pressure by making changes to your lifestyle. You can get your blood pressure measured at many places for free including your local GP and some pharmacies. Alternatively, you can check and monitor your blood pressure at work using the blood pressure monitor available to you as a NEXT colleague. Follow the guide below and take the suggested action if you have a reading of 140/90.
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