Blood pressure services
About this service
What is a blood pressure check and why is it important?
A blood pressure check is a quick and simple way to measure the pressure of your blood against the walls of your arteries. It helps identify if your blood pressure is within a healthy range or if you’re at risk of high blood pressure (hypertension), which can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other serious health issues.
How do I know if I have high blood pressure (hypertension)?
High blood pressure often has no symptoms, which is why regular checks are so important.
If your reading is consistently high, our trained pharmacy team will explain what it means and what steps you can take. You may be referred to your GP for further advice or treatment.
What is Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM)?
ABPM is a more detailed way of measuring your blood pressure. You wear a small monitor for 24 hours, which takes regular readings throughout the day and night.
This gives a more accurate picture of your blood pressure compared to a single reading taken in the pharmacy or at the GP surgery.
Why might I need ABPM?
You might be offered ABPM if your in-store or GP reading was borderline or unexpectedly high. It helps confirm whether you have high blood pressure and is often used before starting or adjusting medication.
Do I need an appointment for these services?
We recommend booking in advance, especially for ABPM, as availability may be limited. However, walk-ins for standard blood pressure checks are often available, just ask a member of our pharmacy team.
Is this service free?
Many blood pressure services, including ABPM, are available free of charge as part of NHS initiatives for eligible patients. Speak to our team to see if you’re eligible.
Locations offering this service
Example Pharmacy 1
Fir Park Medical Centre,
Lanark Gardens, Widnes
WA8 9DT