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    Free NHS Blood Pressure Checks in Burgess Hill and Ditchling
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    Free NHS Blood Pressure Checks in Burgess Hill and Ditchling

    High blood pressure affects 1 in 4 adults. Learn why regular checks matter and how our free NHS service can help protect your heart.

    5 January 2026•3 min read

    High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often called the "silent killer" because it rarely shows symptoms until it causes serious damage. At Ditchling Pharmacy, we offer free NHS blood pressure checks to help you stay informed about your cardiovascular health.

    Why Blood Pressure Matters

    Your blood pressure is one of the most important indicators of your overall health. Consistently high blood pressure can lead to:

  1. Heart attacks and heart disease
  2. Strokes
  3. Kidney disease
  4. Vascular dementia
  5. Vision problems

    6. The good news? High blood pressure is easily detected and treatable. Regular monitoring is the first step to taking control.

    The NHS Blood Pressure Check Service

    As part of the NHS Hypertension Case-Finding service, we offer free blood pressure checks to adults aged 40 and over. If your reading is elevated, we can:

  6. Provide you with a home monitoring device (ambulatory blood pressure monitor)
  7. Discuss lifestyle changes that can help lower your blood pressure
  8. Refer you to your GP for further assessment and treatment if needed

    9. What is a Healthy Blood Pressure?

    Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as two numbers:

  9. **Systolic pressure** (top number): The pressure when your heart pushes blood out
  10. **Diastolic pressure** (bottom number): The pressure when your heart rests between beats

    11. Ideal blood pressure: Between 90/60 and 120/80 mmHg

    High blood pressure: 140/90 mmHg or higher (or 150/90 if you're over 80)

    How to Lower Your Blood Pressure Naturally

    Whilst medication is sometimes necessary, lifestyle changes can make a significant difference:

  11. **Reduce salt intake**: Aim for less than 6g per day
  12. **Eat more fruit and vegetables**: Especially potassium-rich foods like bananas
  13. **Maintain a healthy weight**: Losing even a few pounds can help
  14. **Exercise regularly**: 150 minutes of moderate activity per week
  15. **Limit alcohol and caffeine**: Both can raise blood pressure
  16. **Stop smoking**: Smoking raises blood pressure and damages arteries

    17. Get Your Free Check Today

    Don't wait until symptoms appear. Pop into Ditchling Pharmacy for a quick, free blood pressure check. It takes just a few minutes and could be the most important health decision you make this year.

    Ready to take the next step?

    Our friendly team is here to help with all your healthcare needs.

    Get in TouchView Our Services

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