Blood pressure (BP)

The pressure of blood against your artery walls — one of the biggest and most silent drivers of lifelong health.

What it measures

Two numbers: systolic (the higher, when the heart beats) over diastolic (the lower, when it rests), in millimetres of mercury.

Why it matters

Raised blood pressure usually causes no symptoms for years while quietly raising the risk of stroke, heart attack, kidney disease and dementia. It is common, easy to measure, and very treatable.

Healthy target

Around 120/80 mmHg or below (untreated); your clinician sets your personal target

How to read your value

One reading isn’t a diagnosis — pressure rises with stress, caffeine, talking and a cold room (and the “white-coat” effect at the clinic). Several calm, seated readings at home over days give a truer picture.

What can affect it

• Salt intake and diet pattern (DASH/Mediterranean help)
• Body weight, alcohol and physical activity
• Stress and sleep (including sleep apnoea)
• Many effective medications lower it

Does the target differ by age or sex?

The ~120/80 goal is broadly similar for men and women. Some guidelines relax it in the very elderly or frail, so your clinician sets your personal target. Pregnancy is managed separately.

When to talk to a clinician

Consistently raised home readings should be reviewed by a clinician — treatment is one of the highest-value things you can do for long-term health.