Managing Chronic Conditions & Seasonal Health

Managing Chronic Conditions

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or other ongoing issues, regular check-ins and medicine reviews really help. Our care management team is ready to coordinate your care and support you every step of the way.

For proactive heart health, weight management, and feeling your best, I recommend simple daily habits: walk 30 minutes or more every day to strengthen your heart, muscles, and mood — no gym needed. Follow the "Rule of 5s" when reading labels — avoid foods where any of the first five ingredients are sugars, syrups, white flour, or unhealthy fats.

Choose fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins like chicken or salmon, and whole grains. A great breakfast is steel-cut oatmeal with walnuts, raisins, and flaxseed oil. Do small seated and standing movements daily to improve balance and prevent falls.

These consistent, small changes add up to better health and energy.

Seasonal Health

As the weather gets warmer, stay hydrated, use sunscreen, manage seasonal allergies and asthma (stay indoors on high-pollen days, carry your rescue inhaler, and follow your asthma action plan), and check with your doctor about any medicines that may increase heat or sun sensitivity.

If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar more often because heat can affect levels, and keep your medications out of extreme heat.

If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or are at risk for stroke, avoid heavy activity during the hottest part of the day, stay cool, control your blood pressure, take medications as prescribed, eat heart-healthy foods, and know the warning signs of stroke (FAST: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911 right away).

To prevent heat stroke, drink plenty of water, stay in air-conditioned or cool areas, avoid being outside during the hottest hours, wear light loose clothing, and seek immediate help if you feel dizzy, confused, nauseous, or have a very hot dry body.