What is the test ?
The aim is to detect high blood pressure or hypertension. There are 2 readings : the upper one is the systolic blood pressure, and the lower one, the diastolic blood pressure. Eg. The doctor will record it as 120/80 mmHg. You may have high blood pressure if your diastolic blood pressure is at 90 mmHg or higher, and/or your systolic blood pressure is at 140 mmHg or higher. Diastolic pressure is the blood pressure when the heart relaxes and systolic pressure is the blood pressure when the heart is contracting (pumping). Your doctor will need to check it several times to confirm.
Why do the test ?
High blood pressure does not usually have symptoms ( ie you don't feel it) and so sometimes goes unnoticed until complications like heart and kidney failure sets in. These complications can often be prevented with early detection and treatment.
Who should do the test ?
If you are 40 years or older, you should check your blood pressure at least once a year. You should also have it checked regularly if you have other medical problems such as diabetes, high cholesterol or a previous heart attack.
How is the test done ?
You can ask your doctor to check your blood pressure or learn to check it yourself with an electronic blood pressure meter.
