HEALTH bosses in Dorset are urging people to get their blood pressure checked.

The plea comes at the end of the Know Your Numbers campaign, which is run by Blood Pressure UK every September. The campaign encourages people across the country to find out their blood pressure reading and if it is outside of the normal range, to seek help.

Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, this year home testing is the focus as an alternative to community-based measuring or visiting a GP practice.

Around a third of people in the UK have high blood pressure, but many don’t know it. It often doesn’t have any symptoms so the only way to find out is to have a blood pressure check.

High blood pressure can lead to a number of health problems including stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, vascular dementia and diabetes.

Dr Forbes Watson, a GP and Chairman of NHS Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “With so many people affected by high blood pressure and not knowing, it is important to test regularly and get help if you need it.

“Home monitoring is convenient and can save time, both for individuals and clinicians, it also enables you to take regular tests in a familiar environment.

“Monitors are inexpensive and are readily available online, on the high street or through pharmacies. Alternatively, if you are invited for a free NHS health check make sure you attend.

“Keep a record of your blood pressure, and if your numbers are high, you should inform your GP right away.”

Find out more at bloodpressureuk.org