Long-term conditions
Blood Pressure Management
High blood pressure rarely causes symptoms, which is why it's easy to miss. Accurate readings and steady follow-up make a real difference to long-term heart and kidney health.
At a glance
- Good for
- A high reading, a new diagnosis or ongoing treatment
- Measurement
- Several readings, sometimes with home monitoring
- Treatment
- Lifestyle changes first or alongside medicines
- Follow-up
- Regular reviews until readings are stable
In plain words
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. When it stays high over time, it adds strain to the heart, blood vessels and kidneys.
One high reading isn't a diagnosis. Blood pressure changes through the day and can rise in a clinic setting, so doctors usually confirm it with repeated or home readings before deciding on treatment.
Why people book
People book about blood pressure when:
- A reading at a pharmacy, workplace or home was higher than expected
- They've recently been diagnosed and want to understand it
- Their current medicine needs reviewing
- They have side effects they'd like to discuss
- High blood pressure runs in their family
Only a consultation can tell what's right for you.
What happens at the visit
Every visit is different. Your doctor will explain what they suggest before anything is done.
Careful measurement
Readings taken seated and rested, sometimes on both arms.
Home readings
You may be asked to record readings at home for a week or so.
Related checks
Tests such as kidney function, blood sugar and cholesterol, where appropriate.
A plan
Lifestyle changes, medicine if needed, and when to come back.
Between reviews
- Take medicines at the same time each day, as prescribed
- Record home readings the way the doctor showed you
- Bring your monitor to a visit so it can be checked against the clinic's
- Don't stop medicines on your own if readings look normal
Seek urgent help. Seek emergency care for chest pain, severe breathlessness, sudden weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking, sudden vision changes or a severe sudden headache. Call 112 in an emergency.
What to bring
- Your home blood pressure readings, with dates and times
- Your home monitor, if you use one
- All your current medicines
Please bring these with you rather than sending them through a website. See the full checklist
Questions people ask
Is one high reading a diagnosis?
No. Blood pressure varies, and can be higher in a clinic. A diagnosis is usually based on repeated readings, often including home or ambulatory monitoring.
Can lifestyle changes really help?
Yes. Reducing salt, staying active, keeping to a healthy weight and limiting alcohol can all lower blood pressure. Some people still need medicine as well.
Will I need medicine for life?
Not necessarily. It depends on your readings, your overall risk and how your blood pressure responds. Your doctor will review this with you over time.
Should I buy a home monitor?
Many people find one useful. Ask the clinic which type to choose and how to use it correctly.
Have a question that isn't answered here?
Clinical review pending
Before publication, a registered doctor at the clinic reviews this guide. Their name, registration number and the review date appear here. General information for patients, not a diagnosis or personal advice.
Questions about blood pressure management?
Request an appointment and the doctor will talk it through with you, examine you if needed and explain your options.