Henry and Stark County First Choice Healthcare Clinics offer blood pressure and cholesterol management in Kewanee and Toulon

May is National High Blood Pressure Awareness Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, alongside First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon, are encouraging everyone to check their blood pressure. High blood pressure is often called the silent killer because you may not show symptoms. Simple steps like taking prescribed medication, quitting smoking, reducing sodium, staying active, eating healthier, and managing stress can make a difference. Family Nurse Practitioners at First Choice Healthcare offer help with blood pressure and cholesterol management. For more information, contact the Kewanee clinic at 309-852-5272 or the Toulon clinic at 309-852-3115.

Patients are urged to set a blood pressure goal with their healthcare provider and develop a plan to reach it. Taking prescribed medications as directed is crucial, and discussing any difficulties—such as side effects or medication costs—with your doctor can help. Lifestyle changes also play a key role: quitting smoking, reducing sodium in your diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active with at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days. In addition, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, stress management, and limiting alcohol are all important. Regularly monitoring your blood pressure remains essential.