- Opening : Mon-Fri 8am - 8pm | Sat 9am - 6pm | Sun 9am - 4pm
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Blood pressure testing measures how hard your blood pushes against the walls of your arteries. At Flinders Discount Chemist, blood pressure testing is part of our free health checks, so you can check your reading in store without a doctor’s appointment.
Here’s what the check involves, what the numbers mean and when to follow up with your GP. To ask about a check, call us on (02) 4296 5548 or visit us at 7 Munmorah Circuit, Flinders NSW 2529.
Our free blood pressure check uses a cuff that wraps around your upper arm and gently tightens for a short time. The monitor then shows two numbers. There’s no cost, and the check is one of several free health checks available at our pharmacy, alongside free blood glucose testing.
We’re at 7 Munmorah Circuit in Flinders, in the Shellharbour area, and open seven days: Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, Saturday 9am to 6pm and Sunday 9am to 4pm.
A blood pressure check at the pharmacy can suit people who’d like to keep an eye on their numbers between GP visits. You don’t need a doctor’s appointment for the check, the pharmacy may be a familiar place to have it done, and checking from time to time lets you see how your readings change.
High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so many people don’t know they have it until it’s measured. Over time, raised blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney disease. A regular check is a simple way to find out where you stand. Read more about what hypertension is.
A reading has two numbers, written like 120/80. The top number (systolic) is the pressure when your heart beats, and the bottom number (diastolic) is the pressure between beats. As a general guide, the Heart Foundation describes:
Your GP can tell you what’s right for you, as targets can differ from person to person.
Blood pressure changes through the day, and it can be higher if you’ve just rushed in, had a coffee or feel anxious. One high reading doesn’t always mean you have high blood pressure, which is why your GP may ask for several readings over time.
A pharmacy check is a snapshot, not a diagnosis. If your reading is high, we may suggest you see your GP. If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weakness or trouble speaking, call Triple Zero (000) straight away.
Yes. Blood pressure testing is part of our free health checks. Call us on (02) 4296 5548 with any questions before you come in.
Yes. A home monitor can help you track your readings between checks. Find out how to check blood pressure at home.