How simple test spots the danger

Blood pressure is recorded with two numbers representing the systolic pressure and diastolic pressure.

The systolic (higher number) is the force at which your heart pumps blood around your body. The diastolic (lower number) is the resistance to the blood flow in the blood vessels.

Both are measured in millimetres of mercury (mmhg). Ideal blood pressure is between 90/60mmhg and 120/80mmhg.

Low blood pressure is 90/60mmhg or lower. High blood pressure is 140/90mmhg or higher.

If your reading is between 120/80mmhg and 140/90mmhg, you could be at risk of developing high blood pressure if you don’t take steps to keep it under control.

All adults over 40 are advised to have a blood pressure test every five years.

You can do this at your GP surgery, some pharmacies, in some workplaces or by using a home blood pressure monitor.