Check your blood pressure reading
Use this service to:
- check what your blood pressure reading means
- get information about what to do next
Who can use this tool
You can use this tool if you or the person you're using it for:
- are aged 18 or over
- have a recent blood pressure reading, either taken by a healthcare professional or with a home blood pressure monitor
You should not use this tool if you or the person you're using it for:
- are aged 17 or under
- are pregnant
- have a medical condition that can affect your blood pressure
- are taking medicines that can affect your blood pressure
- have recently had surgery or experienced an injury
- are feeling unwell with new symptoms such as dizziness, nausea or headache
- have recently seen a healthcare professional about your blood pressure and received medical advice
You should not use this tool to diagnose any symptoms. If you're worried about your blood pressure, book an appointment at a GP surgery.
I do not have a recent reading
You should have a blood pressure test if you're worried about your blood pressure at any time.
You can get your blood pressure tested at a number of places, including:
- your local GP surgery
- some pharmacies
- some workplaces
You can also check your blood pressure with a monitor at home.
How to choose a reliable blood pressure monitor (British Heart Foundation)I need help measuring my blood pressure at home
When you're taking your blood pressure at home there are things you can do to help get an accurate reading.
Try to:
- sit on an upright chair with a back
- place your feet flat on the floor
- rest your arm on a table and relax your hand and arm
- wear something with short sleeves so the cuff does not go over clothes
- relax, breathe normally and do not talk during the test
- take another reading a few minutes after your first reading to check it's accurate
If you've been asked by a healthcare professional to measure your blood pressure, do this as often as they advised, usually morning and evening.
If you regularly use a home blood pressure monitor you should tell your GP practice.
Watch how to measure your blood pressure at home (The British Heart Foundation on YouTube).
By using this tool you agree to the terms and conditions.