Having good blood pressure is possibly the most important factor in cutting your risk of cardiovascular disease. Find out about what your blood pressure should be. 

What is blood pressure? 

Your heart pumps blood around your body to provide you with the oxygen and energy that you need. Each time the heart pumps, the blood presses on the sides of the blood vessels; your blood pressure tells you how hard the blood is pressing.

Who should have their blood pressure measured? 

Everyone over the age of 40 should have their blood pressure checked at least once every five years.  

Some younger people or people with other health problems also need their blood pressure checked. Your healthcare team will contact you if you should be having your blood pressure measured.  

How is blood pressure measured? 

A blood pressure test is done in a number of places including your GP, some chemists, an NHS Health Check or even at work. You can even test your blood pressure at home with a home testing kit. 

A stethoscope, pump, arm cuff and dial are often used, but sensors and digital displays can also measure blood pressure. 

Your blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and two figures are given: 

Systolic pressure This is the pressure when your heart pushes blood out

Diastolic pressure This is the pressure when your heart rests between beats

So a reading of 140/90mmHg means you have a systolic pressure of 140mmHg and a diastolic pressure of 90mmHg. 

What should your blood pressure be? 

An ideal blood pressure is between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg. 

Your blood pressure is low if it is less than 90/60mmHg.