This article provides general information, not personal medical advice. Speak to an appropriate healthcare professional about symptoms, medicines or concerns.
Start with blood pressure
High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and other problems, yet it often causes no symptoms. The measurement is quick, and many pharmacies in England offer free checks for people aged 40 or over.
One high reading does not automatically mean you have hypertension. It may need repeating or monitoring at home. The important part is knowing your number and following up when advised.
Do not ignore the NHS Health Check invitation
In England, people aged 40 to 74 without certain pre-existing conditions should usually be invited to an NHS Health Check every five years. It looks at factors including blood pressure, cholesterol and the risk of conditions such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.
Services differ across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so ask your GP practice what routine checks apply where you live. If you think you are eligible in England but have not been invited, contact your practice or local council.
Take screening invitations seriously
National screening programmes send invitations based on age, risk and where you live. Read the information, complete home-testing kits when offered and rearrange appointments you cannot attend rather than quietly binning them.
Keep your GP contact details up to date. A remarkably sophisticated health strategy can begin with opening the envelope.
Mention the things you would rather not mention
Changes in bowel or bladder habits, a new lump, unexplained bleeding, persistent pain, unexplained weight loss, lasting fatigue or changes in a mole are not topics to save for a more convenient year. Arrange medical advice rather than waiting for a routine check.
The same applies to mental health. Low mood, anxiety, sleep problems and feeling unable to cope are health issues, not a failure of character.
Make a one-page health record
Keep a simple note of medicines, major family history, recent blood-pressure readings, screening dates and questions for your next appointment. You do not need to become obsessed with numbers. You need enough information to notice what is changing and have a better conversation.
Sources and further reading
- NHS Health Check eligibility and process ↗
- NHS guidance on high blood pressure ↗
- NHS mental health information and support ↗
ManUp uses primary and authoritative sources where practical. See our editorial policy for how we research and update articles.
