BLOG: Know Your Numbers For World Heart Day & Everyday!
29th, Sep 2025
For World Heart Day, we spoke with Dr Roger Brown, Lead Private GP at Kingsbridge North West about the importance of looking after your heart health. ❤️ They share why regular blood pressure checks are vital, along with practical advice on maintaining healthy levels and reducing high blood pressure.
What Do Blood Pressure Numbers Really Mean?
Blood pressure (BP) is the pressure of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It’s one of the key indicators doctors use to check the health of your heart and blood vessels.
When blood pressure is consistently too high (hypertension), it puts extra strain on your arteries and vital organs, raising your risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney problems, and more.
BP is measured using two numbers:
- Systolic (top number): pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
- Diastolic (bottom number): pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
The four main categories are:
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated: 120–129/80 mmHg
- High BP (Stage 1): 130–139/80–90 mmHg
- High BP (Stage 2): 140/90 mmHg or higher
“Numbers should ideally be below 150/90. If they’re consistently higher, they need to be treated.”
Why Blood Pressure Matters
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it can cause serious damage before symptoms appear.
Unchecked, it puts stress on the heart, arteries, brain, and kidneys - and over time can lead to heart disease, stroke, aneurysms, and vision problems.”
How to Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure
Simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference:
- Stay active and exercise regularly
- Eat a balanced diet, low in salt and saturated fats
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol (max 14 units/week)
- Manage stress and take time to relax
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Control cholesterol levels
In some cases, medication may be needed - your GP will guide you.
When Should You Get Checked?
“If you’re over 50, or over 35 and overweight, get your blood pressure checked. Don’t delay - if you don’t check, you won’t know.”
You can check your blood pressure at most community pharmacies, with your GP, or at Kingsbridge.
Take the Next Step
Learn more about our Private GP services in Belfast and North West at kingsbridgegpclinic.com
As well as our rapid access Cardiology services at kingsbridgeheartclinic.com
Want to make lasting lifestyle changes? Our BUPA Health Team in Belfast can help you achieve sustainable improvements to keep your heart healthy.
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