Do you know your blood pressure?

By Mayo Clinic News Network

If you can't remember the last time you had your blood pressure checked, make an appointment with your doctor. You can have high blood pressure for years without a single symptom. Generally, ask your doctor for a blood pressure reading at least every two years. He or she may recommend more-frequent readings if you have high blood pressure or other risk factors for heart disease.

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Symptoms

Most people with high blood pressure have no signs or symptoms, even if blood pressure readings reach dangerously high levels.

Although a few people with early-stage high blood pressure may have dull headaches, dizzy spells or a few more nosebleeds than normal, these signs and symptoms usually don't occur until high blood pressure has reached a severe or life-threatening stage.

When to see a doctor

You'll likely have your blood pressure taken as part of a routine doctor's appointment.

Ask your doctor for a blood pressure reading at least every two years starting at age 18. Blood pressure should be checked in both arms to determine if there is a difference. Your doctor will likely recommend more frequent readings if you've already been diagnosed with high blood pressure or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Children age 3 and older will usually have their blood pressure measured as a part of their yearly checkups.

If you don't regularly see your doctor, you may be able to get a free blood pressure screening at a health resource fair or other locations in your community. You can also find machines in some stores that will measure your blood pressure for free, but these machines can give you inaccurate results.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/health-tip/art-20049024