If you’re like many adults in the UK, it might have been a while or never. That’s not unusual, but it is risky. High blood pressure (hypertension) often goes unnoticed until it causes real harm. It’s called the “silent killer” for a reason: there are usually no warning signs, but the consequences heart attack, stroke, kidney damage are very real.

Know Your Numbers Week: 9 to 15 September 2025

This September, during Blood Pressure UK’s Know Your Numbers Week, the spotlight is on awareness. But knowing your numbers is only the first step. Understanding what they mean and how to manage them is where the real power lies.

What Your Numbers Say About Your Health

Blood pressure is measured with two numbers:

Systolic (pressure when the heart beats)
Diastolic (pressure when the heart rests between beats)

A healthy reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg.
Consistently high readings—140/90 mmHg or above—can silently damage arteries, strain your heart, and reduce blood flow to vital organs like your brain and kidneys.

Even more concerning, high blood pressure doesn’t usually cause symptoms. You might feel fine while your body is under growing strain. Left unchecked, hypertension increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and vascular dementia.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Here’s the good news: lifestyle changes can make a real difference. You don’t need to become a fitness fanatic or radically change your diet overnight. Small, consistent adjustments can help lower your numbers over time:

Move more – Just 30 minutes of moderate activity a day can help
Eat smart – Cut down on salt and processed foods; add more fruit, veg, and whole grains
Manage stress – Mindfulness, sleep, and relaxation techniques can all help lower blood pressure
Check regularly – The NHS offers free pharmacy blood pressure checks for adults over 40 who haven’t had a recent reading

Learn from an Expert: Free Webinar

Take control of your health by joining our free educational webinar:

“Know Your Numbers: Understanding Your Health Through Essential Numbers”
Presented by Dr. Rachel Jakeman, GP and specialist in hormone health, weight management, and wellbeing coaching.

Dr. Jakeman will explain what your blood pressure numbers mean, how to check them properly, and what small changes can make the biggest difference. This is a space to learn, ask questions, and gain practical tools—not just theory.

To register, email: kirstine@bmrhealthandwellbeing.co.uk

Take control. Know your numbers. Your future self will thank you.