Optimal blood pressure is a top number (systolic) of 120 and a bottom number (diastolic) of 80. Doctors will begin to prescribe medications to lower blood pressure if the systolic pressure if higher than 140 or the diastolic pressure higher than 90.

I agree with the former contributor that the 'normal' blood pressure reading is 120 over 80.

High blood pressure is known as the 'silent killer'. Many people never know that they have high blood pressure as they have no symptoms of any kind, although some people may experience bad headaches with raised blood pressure, but that apparently is rare.

The first thing that could tell you that your blood pressure is abnormal may well be a heart attack or stroke, so it is very important to catch it before this happens.

Get regular checks at the doctor or pharmacy, if your blood pressure is raised on one occasion go and get it checked again within the week and if it is raised on more than two consecutive occasions it is vital that you see your doctor and talk to him/her regarding medication.

The best way to keep your blood pressure in the 'normal' range is to keep your weight down and exercise regularly. Eat healthily with lots of fruit and vegetables and not too much red meat. Cout out salt from your diet completely. Eat oily fish like salmon, tuna and sardines at least three times per week. Look after yourself and try to achieve a good work, life balance.