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Blood pressure: How to check it

Knowing your blood pressure, and what a healthy target is for you, can help you stay healthy.  

Blood pressure is the force of blood in your arteries - the vessels that move blood from your heart to the rest of your body.  

Your body is always adjusting the blood pressure depending on what you need in the moment. It is normal for your blood pressure to fluctuate during the day, and it is okay for your blood pressure to be a little high so long as it is for a short period of time.   

If blood pressure is too high for longer periods of time, it can cause serious damage to the brain, eyes, heart, kidneys and genitals. You can check your blood pressure by taking readings with a blood pressure machine, at home or in the clinic.

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Person holding blood pressure machine on their lap

It's important to check your blood pressure

Did you know?

You will not know if you have high blood pressure unless you check it. Most people with high blood pressure do not have symptoms. 

Checking your blood pressure

Person getting blood pressure checked

Worried about your blood pressure or you have family history of heart disease?

  • Ask your PCCR for an at-home blood pressure machine if you are worried about your blood pressure, or if you have a family history of hypertension or heart disease.  
  • It is very important to be measured for the right size cuff. If it is too tight, it will give you a higher reading. Your PCCR will help guide you.  

Explore more

Through regular medical appointments and monitoring your blood pressure, you can detect high blood pressure early so that you can manage it and pre

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