Specific pharmacies in England offer free blood pressure checks for eligible people

Booking a GP appointment just for a blood pressure reading can feel like a faff. Fortunately, selected pharmacies throughout England provide complimentary blood pressure screenings to those who meet specific criteria.

According to the NHS, this service targets people aged over 40 residing in England who remain unaware they suffer from elevated blood pressure. Those who know they have high blood pressure or have undergone monitoring within the past six months will not be eligible for this screening.

Similar to standard blood pressure assessments, these consultations typically involve a pharmacist or staff member placing a cuff around your upper arm to obtain a reading.

Based on the outcome, you may subsequently be recommended to consult a GP, receive guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, or be provided with a personal monitor to take home before returning at a later date.

Official NHS advice has explained: "If you're registered with a GP surgery, your blood pressure reading will be added to your GP health record. It will not be shared with anyone unless your blood pressure is very high or very low and you need urgent medical help."

Although widespread, high blood pressure can trigger severe complications, including heart attacks and strokes, when left without treatment. Various factors can influence it, including your age, ethnic background, and dietary habits, particularly if your meals contain excessive salt.

High blood pressure can cause symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, and chest pain, but it is usually completely without symptoms. Therefore, taking a blood pressure test is the only definitive way to diagnose it.

"If your blood pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your blood vessels, heart and other organs, such as your brain, kidneys and eyes," NHS guidance has also stated. "...Lowering your blood pressure even a small amount can help reduce your risk of these problems."

If you think you qualify for a free blood pressure check under the scheme, visit the NHS website to find the nearest participating pharmacy. You can use the search bar to input your town, city, or postcode in England.

Anyone else worried about their blood pressure or symptoms should consult a GP or dial 111 for further advice.

What is a 'high' blood pressure reading?

Blood pressure readings comprise two numbers, with the first being higher than the second. According to the NHS, if you are under 80 years old, a reading is generally considered high if it is:

• 140/90 or higher when checked by a healthcare professional
• 135/85 or higher when checked at home

For people aged 80 and above, a blood pressure reading is generally considered high if it is:

• 150/90 or higher when checked by a healthcare professional
• 145/85 or higher when checked at home