HEALTH: TAKE CONTROL OF BLOOD PRESSURE

By Family Features

Effectively managing your blood pressure can help reduce your chances of life-threatening medical events, even death.

Gain confidence and learn how to take control of your blood pressure with these tips and resources from the American Heart Association.

The Silent Killer

High blood pressure is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it typically has few, if any, noticeable symptoms but can lead to heart attack, stroke, heart failure and even death. Many people with high blood pressure don’t even know they have it. Some overlooked symptoms can include dizziness, facial flushing and blood spots in the eyes.

Understand Your Readings

The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to regularly take an accurate blood pressure measurement. Understanding your results is key to controlling high blood pressure. Blood pressure numbers of less than

120/80 mm Hg are usually considered within the normal range, yet it is important to talk to a doctor about your healthy range. Even if you fall within a healthy range, it can be beneficial to stick with heart-healthy habits like following a balanced diet and getting regular exercise.

Know Your Risk

While many risk factors for high blood pressure may be related to your age, gender and family history, there are also risk factors you can change to of physical activity, eat a diet high in sodium (particularly from packaged, processed foods), may be overweight or obese, drink excessive amounts of alcohol and may have multiple chronic conditions.

Talk About It

Whether you’re making changes in your own life to combat high blood pressure or helping someone else, positive feelings and confidence are longer-term motivators to making health and kind to yourself and others you may be helping.

Lowering Your Pressure

You can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, heart failure and even death with lifestyle changes and medication.

Watching your weight, especially if you are overweight or obese, can bring health gains; losing as little as 5-10 pounds may help lower your blood pressure. Managing your stress by relaxing for short periods during your workday, at night and on weekends is another productive practice.

If you have diabetes, it’s important to work with a doctor to manage the disease and reduce your blood glucose levels.

If you think you could have sleep apnea, getting screened for and treating the condition can also reduce your risk for developing high blood pressure.

Tyler James Williams: “I’m not gay”

Reunite at Roots Picnic

Issa Rae On ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’

Tyler James Williams, known for his role in "Abbott Elementary," recently addressed the speculation surrounding his sexuality. In a note posted on his Instagram account, the 30-year-old actor expressed his thoughts on the matter.

Williams stated that while he is not gay, he believes the culture of trying to uncover hidden traits or behaviors in someone is dangerous.

He emphasized that overanalyzing someone's actions can contribute to the anxiety experienced by queer individuals who fear living their truth.

Williams also discussed how such behavior reinforces unrealistic archetypes for straight men and limits individual expression.

He concluded by affirming his commitment to using his platform to challenge these harmful messages.

Lauryn Hill surprised fans at the Roots Picnic in Philadelphia by bringing Wyclef Jean and Pras Michel on stage for a reunion performance of the Fugees.

However, it may be the last time the trio performs together. Pras Michel is facing potential prison time, having been found guilty on multiple criminal counts related to an international conspiracy.

Despite this, the Fugees delighted the audience with their classic hits, including "How Many Mics," "Ready or Not," "Killing Me Softly," and "Fu-Gee-La."

The group had previously announced a tour in 2021 to celebrate their 25th anniversary, but it was later canceled due to the challenges posed by the ongoing Covid pandemic.

Issa Rae takes on the role of a pregnant superhero in the upcoming Marvel project, "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse."

Portraying Jessica Drew, also known as Spider-Woman, Rae brings a unique and powerful character to life in this animated film that explores alternate universes.

Known for her distinctive portrayals, the "Insecure" star expressed pride in playing such a cool and badass character. While voice acting presented its challenges, Rae enjoyed working with the talented cast and had fun reading scenes with Hailee Steinfeld, who voices Gwen Stacy. Anticipation is high for the film's release, with early buzz suggesting it could follow in the footsteps of its Oscar-winning predecessor.

Friends and family of Bun B and Trill Burgers flocked to the corner of Shepherd Drive and Richmond Avenue to get an exclusive first look inside Trill Burgers’ debut brick-andmortar location at 3607 S Shepherd Dr. Guests included Houston rap royalty Slim Thug, Lil’ Keke, Willie D of the Geto Boys, and Le$. Luminaries from the sports world included Houston