Heart Health

You should check whether you have high cholesterol if you have risk factors such as a family history of heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, or if you lead an unhealthy lifestyle with a poor diet and lack of exercise. Additionally, regular cholesterol screenings are recommended for adults starting from age 20, with frequency depending on individual risk factors and medical history.

To determine if your medication is effectively managing your high cholesterol, you should regularly consult with your healthcare provider who can perform blood tests to measure your cholesterol levels. The results of these tests will indicate whether your medication is achieving the desired outcomes and if the Flash Pharmacy team needs to make any adjustments.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a medical condition in which the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. It is often referred to as a “silent killer” as it usually has no symptoms but can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

Normal blood pressure typically refers to a reading below 120/80 mmHg. The top number, known as systolic pressure, represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, while the bottom number, known as diastolic pressure, represents the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.

There are several methods that can help lower blood pressure, including adopting a healthy diet that is low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, engaging in regular physical activity such as brisk walking or swimming, managing stress through relaxation techniques or activities you enjoy, and if necessary, taking prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare professional. It’s important to consult with your doctor to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

A stroke is a medical condition that occurs when the blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, resulting in the brain cells being deprived of oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to various symptoms, such as sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and loss of coordination or balance.

You can reduce the risk of a stroke by making certain lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy blood pressure, keeping cholesterol levels in check, engaging in regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet low in saturated fats and high in fruits and vegetables, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing chronic conditions like diabetes. It’s always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

To determine if your medications are effectively helping with your stroke prevention, it’s crucial to regularly consult with your healthcare provider. They can monitor your progress, conduct appropriate tests, and assess any changes in your symptoms or risk factors to evaluate the effectiveness of the medications and have the Flash Pharmacy Care Team make the necessary adjustments if needed.