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STAR LIVING BLOG

Fighting back against the ‘silent killer’

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often called a “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms. It can affect all age groups: children, young adults, adults and older adults. High blood pressure quietly damages blood vessels and leads to serious health problems.

There is no cure. But using medications as prescribed and making lifestyle changes can improve your quality of life and control your blood pressure. These actions also can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and more.

Blood pressure numbers for all ages

Is your blood pressure in a healthy range? The best way to know is to get your blood pressure checked.

If you’re diagnosed with high blood pressure, you should monitor your blood pressure regularly. Knowing your numbers can alert you to changes in your blood pressure and help you see patterns. Tracking your results over time will also show if lifestyle changes you’ve made are working. Tracking your numbers also can help your health care professional monitor how treatments are working.

Symptoms include: chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness, weakness, change in vision or difficulty speaking

You can get more information from

https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure

Diabetes basics

Make and eat healthy food.
Be active most days.
Test your blood sugar often.
Take medicines as prescribed, even if you feel good.
Learn ways to manage stress.
Cope with the emotional side of diabetes and learn to manage stress.
Go to checkups.

You’ve had to make diabetes care fit with family, work, school, holidays, and everything else in your life. Here’s our short list of tips to help.

Tips for living well with diabetes

Healthy eating

Take the time to cook. Simple recipes can be healthy and delicious.
Write down or take photos of meals and snacks to help you stay on track.
Try an online cooking class to learn how to make veggies taste delicious.
Skip “diabetic” foods. They tend to be high cost and low flavor.
Make the same food for you and your family. Healthy eating for everyone!
Try Meatless Monday. Beans and lentils are cheap, tasty, and good for you.
Have veggies instead of rice or pasta. You can also blend cooked veggies and add them to sauces.

Being active

Being active is one of the best tools to manage diabetes, and it’s free!
Find ways to be active throughout the day, like climbing stairs.
Work out with a friend. You’ll be more likely to stick with it.
Try an activity tracker (many are free) and watch your steps add up.
Try online workout videos. There’s something for every level of fitness.

Managing stress

Try meditation or yoga to relax.
Get moving! Taking a walk can help you unwind.
Call or make plans to get together with a friend who understands you.

Getting enough sleep

Keep your bedroom dark and cool (65 degrees is recommended).
Keep TVs, computers, and smartphones out of the bedroom.
Get some physical activity during the day.
Mentally unwind and relax before bedtime.
Have a bedtime routine, like taking a shower or reading.

Healthy habits

For new habits, start small. Small successes make bigger goals easier.
Make goals specific: “I’m going to walk after dinner on weekdays.”
Make good choices easier, such as leaving the dog’s leash by the door.

Resources and support

Diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) can help you:

Learn practical skills.
Gain confidence.
Get support.

Everyone with diabetes can benefit from DSMES, whether they’re newly diagnosed or have had it for several years.

You can get more information from

https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/living-with/index.html

Stay in the Know

Your doctor or health care team can help you figure out if your weight is healthy for your age and body. A healthy weight helps your brain and heart function better.

Learn Your BMI

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number that relates your weight to your height. Optimal BMI is less than 25. Less than 18.5 is underweight. You can calculate BMI online or see your health care professional.

Understanding Calories

Calories is how we talk about energy. They are the energy our body gets from foods and what we drink, which it uses for things like moving and breathing. Eating too many calories and not being active enough can lead to weight gain.

Ideas for Weight Management

Increase the amount of fiber you eat and the water you drink.
Add protein to your breakfast. Protein will help you feel full for longer.
Avoid fast food when possible.
Read nutritional labels for nutrition and calorie content. Pay attention to the number of serving sizes in each package.

Tips for Success

Portions Matter: Learn about portion sizes and how much you need to eat to stay healthy.
Get Active: Stress can trick your body into feeling hungry or craving unhealthy foods. Exercise can reduce stress.
Eat Smart: Read food labels for nutrition and calorie content per serving.
Get Help: Talk with your doctor or registered dietitian for help with managing your weight.

You can get more information from

https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/lifes-essential-8/how-to-manage-weight-fact-sheet

Patient Stories

Trusted experiences from satisfied patients

“From scheduling appointments to follow-up care, the entire experience exceeded my expectations. The doctors listened carefully, explained every step clearly, and delivered improved my health and wellbeing.”

October, 2026

“The medical team provided exceptional care throughout my treatment. Every consultation was professional, informative, and reassuring. Approach made me feel confident, supported, and valued during every visit.”

October, 2026

“I appreciated the efficient appointment process and professional medical guidance. The doctors carefully assessed my condition and developed a treatment plan that delivered excellent results and long-term health improvements.”

October, 2026

Need help?

Telephone

848-217-4094

Fax Number

949-920-0246

How to Manage High Blood Pressure

Living with Diabetes

How to keep a healthy Weight

Trusted experiences from satisfied patients

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