Raised blood pressure rarely makes you feel unwell, which is exactly why so many people live with it unaware. Over time it puts strain on the heart and blood vessels and increases the chance of a heart attack, stroke or kidney problems. Through the NHS Blood Pressure Check Service — known formally as the NHS Hypertension Case-Finding Service — you can have it measured quickly and free of charge here in Crewe.

Who can have a check

The service is mainly for adults aged 40 and over who have never been diagnosed with high blood pressure. If you are younger but have risk factors, a family history, or your GP has suggested it, we are happy to check you too. There is no need for a referral or a booked slot — just call us on 01270 215837 or call in.

What the appointment involves

One of the pharmacy team will take a reading using a clinically validated monitor in our private room, and explain the numbers to you straight away. If the reading is higher than expected, we can offer a 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitor (ABPM). This is a small cuff and recorder you wear for a day; it captures readings while you go about your normal routine, giving a far truer picture than a single measurement taken in the pharmacy.

After your check

Where it is useful, we share your results with your GP surgery so any further assessment or treatment can be organised without you starting again from scratch. Identifying raised blood pressure early gives the best chance of keeping it under control.

Worth knowing

A pharmacy check is a screening step rather than a formal diagnosis. High blood pressure is confirmed by your GP, often using the readings from the 24-hour monitor. Either way, the service costs you nothing on the NHS.