When I was offered a heart health check-up, I thought, why not? It had been a decade since I’d had any kind of health check. But I was surprised to find out that I had extremely high blood pressure, a ticking time bomb that shows no symptoms. I was told to see my GP as soon as possible, which I did the following day. After checking my blood pressure again, it was even higher.
The doctor put me on tablets to lower my blood pressure, then ordered blood and urine tests along with an ECG, all of which came back fine. I was also prescribed cholesterol-lowering medication.
I would encourage everyone to have their blood pressure checked. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, but it can lead to a stroke or heart attack and may also damage other organs.
Your kind donations will save lives
Sharing your journey of living with or knowing someone who has had a heart condition is invaluable. Your experience inspires, helps and supports people across the UK.
Ben is championing heart health awareness by sharing his experience of a sudden, life-threatening heart condition.
Phoebe is sharing her story in memory of her dad, to raise awareness of hidden heart diseases and protect other families from the heartache of losing loved ones too soon.
Tom took on the London Marathon 2025 for Heart Research UK to raise awareness about aortic dissection.
Rebecca took on a challenge to run two miles every hour for 24 hours to honour her late uncle.