Diagnosis of Blood pressure (high)

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Blood pressure is measured using two numbers, the systolic first (the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pushes the blood round the body) and then the diastolic (the pressure in the arteries when the heart fills with blood between heart beats).

Blood pressure is measured using an inflatable cuff. This is positioned around the upper arm. The cuff is inflated and the doctor or nurse listens to the artery just below the cuff as the air is then released. When they can hear the heart beat, they will record the systolic pressure. When the sound disappears, they will record the diastolic pressure. Sometimes an automatic computerised blood pressure machine is used.

Some individuals become nervous when visiting their doctor, which may cause a temporary rise in blood pressure. A diagnosis of hypertension is therefore not usually made unless the blood pressure is raised on three separate occasions. Blood pressure has to checked regularly.

If high blood pressure is diagnosed, your GP should also assess whether you are at risk of developing cardiovascular disease (conditions of the heart and circulation, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes). This will involve further tests and you may be referred to a specialist.