https://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/A place to gather health informationen-USTelligent Community 12https://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/stop-smokingMon, 04 May 2026 23:41:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:cb69f9b6-a046-4076-a5d7-4b14a18a4055BCBSIL Connect TeamOne of the best things you can do for your health is to quit smoking or using any kind of tobacco. Quitting isn’t easy, but the rewards make it worth the effort. Quitting earlier in life is best, but it’s a big boost to your health at any age. “Quitting smoking has health benefits at any age, no matter how long or how much you have smoked," says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Quitting can help: Improve your health and quality of life. Cut the chance of premature death. It can add as much as 10 years to your life expectancy. Lower the chance of getting many health problems, such as cancer, heart disease and stroke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) . What’s the Harm? The longer you continue to smoke, the more it will harm your lungs. Smoking causes inflammation in the lungs and reduces the amount of oxygen that flows through them. Smoking also damages air sacs in the lungs, so smokers have a harder time breathing. Studies show smokers are also more likely to get the flu or pneumonia than those who don’t smoke. And if they get the flu or pneumonia, it’s harder for smokers to make a full recovery. Smoking puts you at much higher risk for serious health problems like COPD and asthma, heart disease, stroke, and several types of cancer. In fact, if you're a smoker, talk to your doctor about lung cancer screening. It’s also harmful to those around you, especially to people who have asthma . How To Quit Quitting is hard, but you can raise your chances of success by getting help, says the American Cancer Society . You can get free smoking cessation coaching through a “quit line” or with a mobile app. You can go to a class or use a medicine to help you stop. It might be helpful to start with small cutbacks to how much you smoke or use smokeless tobacco. Once you’ve prepared, set a day to quit. Some things that can help: Mark it on your calendar. Tell friends and family. Get rid of all the cigarettes, ashtrays or smokeless tobacco products in your home and car. Consider joining the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout . Held on the third Thursday of November, the event encourages smokers to take action and make a plan to quit. Some smokers even quit for good that day. Your Doctor Can Help Talk to your doctor about how to quit. There are medicines and many aids and resources available to help you successfully give up smoking. Your health plan may cover the cost of medicine and counseling to support you. Call the number on your member ID card to find out what your plan covers. Can Vaping Help You Quit Smoking? Smokers who want to quit may think vaping can help them give up cigarettes. In reality, vaping can make it harder. Studies show vaping is just as addictive as smoking cigarettes. And most e-cigarettes are more harmful than the other methods for quitting. Learn more about vaping and smoking. Do You Have COPD? If you’ve been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), it’s important to stop smoking. Learn more about COPD. Sources: Benefits of Quitting Smoking , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; How to Quit Smoking , CDC, 2024; How to Quit Using Tobacco , American Cancer Society; Great American Smokeout , American Cancer Society; What Is COPD? , National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health (NHLBI), 2024Heart HealthHealth and WellnessQuitting is Good for Your HealthLung HealthStop SmokingCOPDhttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/vaping-vs-smokingMon, 04 May 2026 20:19:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:008fc93e-f36e-43d1-b582-867eecbd1188BCBSIL Connect TeamOne of the worst things you can do for your lungs and your overall health is to smoke. But many still don’t know that vaping is also dangerous. While experts expressed concern from the start, not everyone got the message. What Is Vaping? Vaping devices, or electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), are battery-operated devices that people use to inhale an aerosol (vapor) that usually contains nicotine, flavorings and other chemicals. They can resemble traditional tobacco cigarettes, cigars or pipes. But many look like everyday things like pens or USB memory sticks. Whether they look like cigarettes, pipes or pens, they all use a vapor to deliver nicotine without tobacco. This vapor sparked the use of the term “vape” and “vaping” instead of smoking. Some may think vaping is better than smoking. Many people, especially teens and young adults, still think e-cigs are cool and a healthier choice than tobacco. In fact, e-cigarette use among young people has reached epidemic levels, says the American Lung Association’s advice to parents . E-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco products among young people and have been for years now. Many teens and adults don't realize how much they’re harming their lungs and their brains by using them. Is Vaping Healthier Than Smoking? E-cigarettes generally contain fewer toxic chemicals than the mix of 7,000 chemicals in smoke from regular cigarettes. But vaping is not healthy . Most e-cigarettes also contain many toxic chemicals and metals, including lead and formaldehyde. They can be very harmful, especially for young people and pregnant women. And most vape devices, as many as 99 percent of those sold in the U.S. , contain nicotine. Nicotine is as addictive as cocaine and heroin. In fact, one vaping dose can have as much nicotine as 20 regular cigarettes. The evidence is building about just how many ways vaping can damage your body. Even in a short time, vaping can damage your heart and lungs. It puts you at risk for: Cancer Lung disease Pneumonia Heart failure Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) And research continues to show health risks from e-cigarette use. One recent study found a significant tie between former or current e-cigarette use and the development of respiratory diseases, including COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and asthma, within two years of use. Vaping has also been linked to serious lung injuries, like bronchiolitis obliterans, often called popcorn lung . This condition happens when the smallest airways in your lungs are damaged by breathing in harmful chemicals, making it harder to breathe. Research has also found that exposure to secondhand vapor can be dangerous for others. Can Vaping Help You Stop Smoking? Researchers have gotten mixed results on whether vaping actually helps people stop smoking, compared to other methods for quitting. But what is clear is that most e-cigarettes are more harmful than the other methods for quitting. Vaping can actually make it harder to stop. Studies show that vaping is just as addictive as smoking regular cigarettes. And about 28 percent of smokers who use vaping are less likely to quit, says the American Heart Association. Many end up smoking and vaping. Remember, no tobacco or vaping products are safe . So those who don’t use them should not start. And those who do should stop. Talk to your doctor about proven, safe ways to quit. There are many proven aids and resources available to help you stop smoking. There are FDA-approved medications available to help people quit. Your health plan may cover the cost of medicine and counseling to support you. Check your benefits information to find out what your plan covers. For more information about how to successfully quit smoking or vaping, visit smokefree.gov or contact the Lung HelpLine and Tobacco Quitline. This free service from the American Lung Association offers help from RNs, respiratory therapists, pharmacists and certified stop smoking experts. Call 800-LUNG-USA (800-586-4872) or go to Lung.org/helpline . Protect Your Lungs Your lungs help you breathe. They help you fight infections. They help your other organs work. But they are easily harmed. Anything you breathe in can hurt them. Here’s how to protect your lungs : Get routine health exams and preventive care Exercise to improve lung capacity Avoid exposure to pollutants Protect yourself from respiratory and other infections Don’t use tobacco products or vape Sources: Can vaping damage your lungs? What we do (and don't) know , Harvard Medical School, 2023; Current evidence identifies health risks of e-cigarette use; long-term research needed , American Heart Association, 2023; What You Should Know About E-Cigarettes & Vaping , American Lung Association, 2025; About E-Cigarettes (Vapes) , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Learn About Bronchiolitis Obliterans , American Lung Association, 2025; Health Effects of Vaping , CDC, 2025Health and WellnessQuitting is Good for Your HealthLung HealthStop SmokingAddictionhttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/healthy-kidneysMon, 04 May 2026 16:30:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:e04c7aa5-707e-44ea-924b-a2ddeaf4d4b4BCBSIL Connect TeamKidneys play a big part in your total health. They filter extra water and toxins from your body. They help control blood pressure. And they play a role in making red blood cells and in keeping bones healthy. When your kidneys aren’t working as they should, waste can build up and harm your body. But you can help your kidneys help you. Stay on Top of Your Kidney Health Most people with kidney disease don’t have symptoms until the disease is advanced, when treatment is more difficult. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that of the more than 35 million Americans who have kidney disease, 90 percent of them don’t know they have it . That’s why it’s important to have a yearly wellness exam. Getting screened for kidney disease can help catch it early. Early detection and treatment of kidney disease can help prevent or delay kidney failure. You may have both urine and blood tests when you’re screened for kidney disease. Urine test: Having more than the normal amount of certain proteins in your urine may show that your kidneys are not filtering blood the right way. Blood test: Your blood will be tested for creatinine. When kidneys are damaged, they have trouble cleaning it from your blood. So higher levels of creatinine in your blood can mean you have kidney damage. Tell your doctor about your family’s medical history, especially if someone close to you has kidney disease. While some long-term kidney health problems run in the family, they are often caused by common health issues like high blood pressure and diabetes. Be sure to: Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes. About 1 in 3 adults with diabetes has kidney disease . Control your blood pressure if you have high blood pressure. About 1 in 5 adults with high blood pressure have kidney disease . Have routine checkups, including any blood or urine tests when needed. Make Healthy Changes You can take steps to lower your risk for kidney disease: Healthy food choices are important. Start by watching how much salt you eat. With kidney problems, extra salt can build up and raise your blood pressure. Also be sure to get enough fruits, vegetables, whole grains , and healthy fats and proteins. If you’re overweight, talk with your doctor and make an action plan. Extra pounds raise your chances for kidney disease and many other health problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. Get more exercise to help keep your weight in line. Check with your doctor before starting. Then aim for 30 minutes at least three days a week to start. Work toward at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Stop smoking. Avoid or limit alcohol. Diabetes Care Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease. Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is also called chronic kidney disease (CKD) or diabetic nephropathy. Having diabetes for a longer time raises the chance that you will have kidney damage. If the damage continues, your kidneys could fail. People with kidney failure need either dialysis or a kidney transplant. You are more likely to get kidney disease if your blood sugar or blood pressure is too high. You’re also more likely to develop kidney disease if you have diabetes and: Don’t follow your diabetes eating plan and watch your salt intake Are not active Are overweight Have heart disease Smoke Have a family history of kidney failure Be sure to take your medicines and keep your doctor visits. You can slow down kidney damage and keep it from getting worse. Are You at Risk? Anyone can get kidney disease, but some things make it more likely. High blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or a family history of kidney failure put you at higher risk for developing kidney disease. People age 60 and older and those who are African American, Asian, Hispanic, Pacific Islander or American Indian are also at higher risk. If you have any of these risk factors for kidney disease, you should get a screening each year. Not everyone who is at risk will get kidney disease. Talk to your doctor about how to lessen your chances. Kidneys: The Chemical Factories of the Human Body The kidneys, along with the liver, are our body’s cleaning department. These two organs help remove toxins and waste from the body. But they also do a lot more . Sources: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) , National Kidney Foundation, 2023; 6-Step Guide to Protecting Kidney Health , National Kidney Foundation; Diabetic Kidney Disease , National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 2019; Diabetic Kidney Problems , NIDDKD, 2020; Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Chronic Kidney Disease: Common, Serious, and Costly , CDC, 2024; Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease , CDC, 2024Kidney HealthKidney DiseaseHealth and WellnessDiabeteshttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/reducing-exposure-on-high-pollution-daysMon, 04 May 2026 15:45:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:337cf433-9d9a-4d08-a122-866eb4bca5b0BCBSIL Connect TeamWhen air pollution levels are high, a red alert warns the public of health dangers. Poor air quality is bad for us all. And it's an even greater risk for those with breathing issues. Poor air quality can trigger allergies and asthma attacks for millions of Americans. And air quality changes from day to day. Fortunately, the Air Quality Index tracks and reports on the most common air pollutants controlled under the Clean Air Act. You can monitor your local air pollution daily. It’s easy to do. Just check www.airnow.gov/ for color-coded ratings in your area. With that knowledge, you can reduce your exposure — and risk — on high pollution days. Create an Action Plan for High Pollution Days If you need to go outside during high pollution days, it’s helpful to create an action plan — especially if you suffer from asthma or other breathing issues. During red and orange days, you should: Limit or avoid outdoor exercise and activities. Avoid going outdoors at times when air pollution is highest. This is typically from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., says the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Consider protective measures like wearing an N-95 mask outdoors. Stay in a well-ventilated building, with air conditioning if possible. Pay Attention to Local Environmental Triggers Many communities are exposed to pollution. Nearby factories and power plants can release harmful chemicals into the air. Diesel exhaust fumes, agricultural burning, crop dusting and forest fires can make breathing difficult. In cities, triggers can include smog and vehicle exhaust. All of these environmental triggers can provoke asthma or allergy symptoms and make breathing more difficult in general. To reduce exposure, get educated about potential pollutants in your area. Pay attention to reports from local health departments and air pollution control agencies. Improve Indoor Air Quality Other than avoiding exposure on high pollution days, there isn’t much you can do about bad air quality outside. But you can improve the quality of air in your home: Dust regularly and keep carpets clean and dry. Make sure gas- and wood-burning appliances are properly installed, used, and maintained. Keep your humidifier clean. Be careful how you store and use household cleaners. If you use candles, consider safer options like beeswax or soy candles that don’t release chemicals when burning. Change your HVAC filter every three months. Watch for mold. Learn more about keeping your indoor air quality safe and protecting your lungs . For children and adults alike, reducing exposure to harmful outdoor pollutants and keeping our indoor air clean can go a long way toward breathing easier. Sources: Air Quality Index (AQI) , United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2025; AirNow , AirNow.gov; Air Pollution and Asthma , Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 2024; 10 Tips to Protect Yourself From Unhealthy Air , American Lung Association, 2024; Indoor Air Can Cause Health Problems , University of Rochester Medical Center; Indoor Air Quality House Tour , EPA, 2025AsthmaChildren’s HealthHealth and WellnessLung HealthLiving with Asthmahttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/pregnancy-mental-healthMon, 04 May 2026 15:25:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:fde1f3eb-f907-4da1-9e94-a47f80d6ae8bBCBSIL Connect TeamHealth care is important before, during and after pregnancy. And that means caring for your mind as well as your body. Mental health challenges can affect you throughout the perinatal period. This period begins before you get pregnant and extends through the pregnancy and up to one year after. Before you get pregnant , you might need mental health support if you face issues getting pregnant and have the stress that comes with treatment for infertility. While you’re pregnant , you can face obstacles in caring for yourself and your family. After the baby comes , you face a range of new feelings and challenges. Your spouse, partner or other family members may also be struggling with all the changes. Or if you’ve gone through a pregnancy loss , you may experience feelings of grief, sadness and depression that may be temporary or may become more long-lasting. Through it all — from prenatal through pregnancy and postpartum — it’s vital to reach out for help if you need it. Depression Is Common Depression is common during pregnancy. It affects about 1 in 10 people who become pregnant. When not treated, it puts a person at risk for early delivery, severe depression and suicide. Some people have depression and anxiety for the first time in their lives during pregnancy or after delivery, says the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists . Those who experience perinatal depression may struggle to care for themselves. They may not eat healthy foods or get enough rest. They may skip their prenatal checkups. People who took antidepressants before pregnancy may become depressed again if they stop taking them. Untreated depression during pregnancy also raises the risk of postpartum depression. After your baby is born, there will be new challenges. You’ll face hormonal changes that can hit you hard. Then there are physical changes in your body, common new parent concerns and some sleepless nights. Many people who recently gave birth experience postpartum depression , They may feel anxious or sad often or all the time. They may have crying spells and not want to do activities. They may be upset or angry with their new baby or with family members. They may have trouble eating, sleeping and making decisions, and they may even wonder if they can care for their baby. New parents need to know they are not alone, are not to blame and don’t need to continue to suffer, says Postpartum Support International , which offers support and resources. Many parents go through some mild mood changes after the birth of a child. But between 15 and 20 percent of them have more severe signs of depression or anxiety. Beyond Depression: Perinatal Mood Disorders Perinatal mental health conditions are the No. 1 complication of childbearing, says Postpartum Support International. There are several conditions that can occur during the perinatal period. Depression is the best-known, but a person can also experience a range of other perinatal mood disorders, including: Anxiety: Symptoms of perinatal anxiety can include constant worry; a feeling of dread or doom; racing thoughts; disturbed sleep and appetite; anger, irritability or rage; and nervousness or trouble relaxing. OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder): This condition involves repetitive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and strong urges to do certain things (compulsions). These often center around the health and safety of the pregnancy and/or baby. PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder): This is caused by a traumatic experience during pregnancy, delivery or after delivery. Bipolar mood disorders. Research shows that half of women with bipolar disorder are first diagnosed in the postpartum period. There are two parts of a bipolar mood disorder: the lows (depression) and the highs (mania). Psychosis: This is a serious perinatal mental health disorder that affects 1 to 2 of every 1,000 deliveries. Symptoms can include delusions, hallucinations, mania, paranoia and confusion. These conditions can affect not just the pregnant person but also other family members, including partners and spouses. Pregnancy Loss: Miscarriage Depression Suffering a pregnancy loss or trauma increases your chances of perinatal mood disorders (PMDs). This may include infertility, failed cycles, miscarriage, the loss of an infant, or a traumatic birth for either parent or child. And anyone who has experienced a combination of any of these situations is at an even higher risk for PMDs. Seek help if you have suffered a pregnancy loss or trauma of any kind. Talk with your doctor, OB-GYN, mental health provider or other specialist. They will help you get screened for mental health concerns and connect you with follow-up care. Get Help for PDMs Perinatal mood disorders should be taken seriously. Symptoms can last for weeks or longer and get in the way of your ability to handle your day-to-day activities. If you think you might have a perinatal mood disorder, reach out for help. For depression, the first step is usually a screening. Your doctor can screen you or recommend a mental health care provider. After your screening, your doctor will talk with you about next steps. You may need follow-up care with a mental health care provider. You may also have a physical exam to rule out other health issues. The good news is perinatal mood disorders can be treated. The most common ways are with counseling, medicine, and social support and practical help, says Postpartum Support International. Your doctor may suggest that you see a mental health professional who can help you find the treatment that works best for you. Getting mental health care can keep the symptoms from getting worse and help you recover. Resources for Perinatal Mood Disorders You can learn more about perinatal mood disorders and their symptoms, risk factors and treatment options at Postpartum Support International . Other resources include the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline . It offers free, confidential mental health support for people and their families before, during and after pregnancy. Call or text 833-TLC-MAMA (833-852-6262). English- and Spanish-speaking counselors are available 24/7. If you're having thoughts of harming yourself or suicide, please get help right away . You can call or text 988 or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline site at 988lifeline.org . Sources: Depression During Pregnancy , American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2024; Postpartum Depression , American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2025; Help for Perinatal Individuals , Postpartum Support International; Depression Screening , U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2022; 988 Lifeline, 988 Lifeline; Perinatal Mental Health: Signs, Symptoms and Treatment , Postpartum Support International; Perinatal Depression , National Institute of Mental Health, 2023Mental HealthPregnancyDepressionPostpartum DepressionHealth and WellnessWomen’s HealthPostpartum Carehttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/symptoms-of-type-2-diabetesMon, 04 May 2026 09:06:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:fee9eac3-e9e1-4550-aab7-1e66649e400cBCBSIL Connect TeamOver the last two decades, the number of people with diabetes has increased by 20 percent in the U.S. All told, more than 40 million Americans have diabetes — and the numbers keep rising. The majority (over 90 percent) have Type 2 diabetes. With Type 2 diabetes, the body doesn’t respond to insulin the way it should to control blood sugar (blood glucose) levels. This is known as insulin resistance . At first, the pancreas produces extra insulin to make up for the body’s poor response. But over time, the pancreas can no longer create enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels. High blood sugar increases inflammation in your arteries. When this happens, your organs don’t get the blood they need to stay healthy and function properly. With diabetes you have a greater risk for stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, vision loss and advanced memory loss. An unhealthy lifestyle can trigger the onset of the disease, but genetics play a role, too. And some groups of people have a higher risk for Type 2 diabetes than others. The disease is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders. Living Well with Type 2 Diabetes While there isn’t a cure for diabetes, a lot can be done to control blood sugar levels so people can live well with the disease. Lifestyle changes and medicine are important tools that can help. Some people with Type 2 diabetes can control their blood glucose with healthy eating and regular physical activity. But oral or injectable medicine like insulin may be needed. Dangerously Unaware Millions of people are in the dark about their diabetes. About 11 million American adults have it and don’t know. Signs and symptoms of Type 2 diabetes often develop slowly and can be mistaken for other health issues. Watch for these warning signs: Greater thirst, frequent urination. Excess sugar builds up in your bloodstream and causes fluid to be pulled from tissues throughout your body. When you feel dehydrated, you may drink — and urinate — more than usual. Increased hunger. Without enough insulin to carry sugar into your cells, your muscles and organs don’t get the fuel they need and are deprived of energy. This can trigger increased hunger. Weight loss. Despite eating more than usual to relieve hunger, you may lose weight. Without the ability to metabolize glucose, the body uses fuel stored in muscle and fat. Calories are lost as excess glucose is flushed out of the body in urine. Fatigue. If your cells are deprived of sugar, you may become tired and irritable. Blurry vision. When your blood sugar is too high, fluid may be pulled from the lenses of your eyes. This may affect your ability to focus clearly. Infections and slow-healing sores. Type 2 diabetes affects your ability to fight off infections and heal. Skin damage. Some people with Type 2 diabetes have patches of dark, velvety skin in the folds and creases of their bodies — usually in the armpits and neck. This condition, called acanthosis nigricans, may be a sign of insulin resistance. If you have any of these symptoms or are concerned about Type 2 diabetes, talk with your doctor. Blood tests can show if you have prediabetes or diabetes. Sources: National Diabetes Statistics Report , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2026; Diabetes Basics , CDC, 2026; Understanding Type 2 Diabetes ,, American Diabetes AssociationType 2Understanding DiabetesHealth and WellnessDiabeteshttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/kidneys-chemical-factories-bodyMon, 04 May 2026 09:00:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:770532d9-8ea0-4628-8cbf-f520aa15fb25BCBSIL Connect TeamThe body is one complicated machine. Everything is connected. Everything works (or is supposed to, anyway) in harmony. Many times, when you're diagnosed with an illness, it’s important to address and treat it properly so other parts of your body aren’t affected. Take the kidneys, for example. The kidneys, along with the liver, are our body’s cleaning department. According to the National Kidney Foundation , these two, fist-sized organs help to remove toxins and waste from the body. But they also do a lot more. Along with getting rid of waste, your kidneys: Balance the body’s fluids Remove drugs from the body Control the production of red blood cells Produce a form of vitamin D that promotes strong, healthy bones Release hormones that regulate blood pressure As you can probably tell from this list, the kidneys control important functions that help keep our bodies healthy. Unfortunately, they aren’t immune to disease. Kidney Disease When the kidneys are unable to function at their full capacity for longer than three months it's classified as chronic kidney disease. While some chronic kidney conditions run in the family, they are often caused by common conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Other conditions that can affect the kidneys include lupus and diseases that affect the immune system. Long-term use of over-the-counter medicine can also damage the kidneys. Detecting Kidney Disease There are tests people with a high risk of kidney disease can have done to check their kidney health. One test detects protein in the urine. The Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (ACR) test checks the amount of albumin in the urine. A high level of the protein may suggest that the filtering parts of the kidneys have been damaged. The test can be affected by exercise or a fever, so it’s important to tell your doctor before the test about any recent physical activity or any illness. Another test — the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) — measures how well the kidneys remove waste from the blood. It is the best way to check kidney function. People with an increased risk of kidney disease should have ACR and eGFR tests done, including: People who are obese People who have heart disease People with diabetes People with high blood pressure (hypertension) People with a family member who has kidney disease People who are Black, Latino, Asian/Pacific Islander or American Indian Preventing Kidney Disease Since the kidneys are so important to our overall health, it’s important to keep them working well for as long as possible. Healthy choices and proactive steps now can protect your kidney function and help fend off many other diseases and serious health conditions. Keep blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels under control. Exercise regularly. Lose weight if you need to. Eat healthy foods. Avoid or limit alcohol. Take medicines as prescribed. Stop smoking. Talk to your doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs you take to make sure they’re safe for your kidneys. For more information about kidney disease, visit the National Kidney Foundation . Sources: Kidney Function , National Kidney Foundation, 2024; Chronic kidney disease , Mayo Clinic, 2025; Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio , Medline Plus, 2025; Glomerular Filtration Rate Test , Medline Plus, 2023; Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024Kidney HealthKidney DiseaseHealth and WellnessDiabeteshttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/a-hug-only-takes-10-seconds-but-the-benefits-last-foreverMon, 13 Apr 2026 15:42:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:5fa79582-e310-49ce-8107-77573541222dBCBSIL Connect TeamFun fact about hugs: They don’t just give you a warm, fuzzy sense of well-being — they can also be good for your health. It’s true. Hugging for just 10 seconds can boost feel-good hormones like oxytocin. Often called the “love hormone,” it fights stress chemicals and helps lower blood pressure. Looking for a good reason to hug someone? There are many. Hugs calm chaos. A good hug can help you feel calmer and less anxious, says Psychology Today . Are you stressed about work deadlines? Money woes? Family drama? Don’t carry that stress around. Hug it out. Hugs reduce inflammation. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to illness. It fights infection. Sometimes, it lasts when it isn’t needed. Chronic inflammation has even been linked to cancer, heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. Hugs protect your heart. Walking, eating a heart-healthy diet and cutting back on salt can all help your blood pressure levels stay in the healthy range. So can regular hugs. A good squeeze can even help lower your heart rate. Hugs boost your immune system. One study shows hugs shorten the common cold infection. Over a 14-day period, participants with colds each received a different number of hugs. People who got more hugs had less severe symptoms and shorter colds. Well-hugged babies lead to well-adjusted adults. Can’t stop hugging your baby? Don’t worry. Research shows that babies who receive a lot of physical affection have a better chance of thriving. Hugs also help them develop better coping mechanisms as they grow up. Touch in general soothes fears. A study on how touch can help alleviate fear , shows touching greatly lower fears. The study noted that even if our eyes perceive something to be afraid of like falling off a ledge, touch from someone else helps calm the fear. Be mindful before you hug. It’s important to note that not everyone enjoys being hugged or wants that level of touch. Other ways to show you care for a friend or family member is by holding their hand or lightly rubbing their back. Cleveland Clinic says a good rule to follow is to always ask the person, even a child, if they need a hug or are okay to receive one before doing it. Sources: Science Confirms Hugs Can Ease Pain, Anxiety, And Depression , Science Alert, 2024; 4 Significant Physical Benefits of Hugging , Psychology Today, 2022; Can Touch Help Us Overcome Fear? , Psychology Today, 2022; Foods That Fight Inflammation , Harvard Health Publishing, 2026; Benefits of Hugging for Mental Health , Cleveland Clinic, 2023Helpful Tips about Heart DiseaseMental HealthHeart Health TipsHealth and WellnessHealthy MindStress Reliefhttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/teen-mental-healthMon, 06 Apr 2026 16:31:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:a7698fbc-9b1b-474c-9286-514dec5685b3BCBSIL Connect TeamTeens are facing more challenges than ever. There’s pressure from school, friends and social media. No wonder their mental health can suffer. You don’t have to wait until your teen is in crisis to talk about it. Talk to your teen early and often. The need is critical. Research shows nearly half of all lifetime cases of mental illness start by age 14, says the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) . And in the U.S., 1 in 6 young people ages 6-17 experience a mental health issue each year. Mental illness is a common health problem. It can affect a person's thinking, feeling, actions or mood. These health problems deeply impact day-to-day living and relating to others. But many people are scared to talk about them. Parents and others can help support young people. The key is to be intentional about engaging with them. Give them safe spaces to show their true selves. Give them a chance to talk about how they’re really doing, says NAMI . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says mentally healthy children and teens have a positive quality of life and can function well at home, in school and in their communities. They reach developmental and emotional milestones and learn healthy social skills and how to cope when there are problems. Anxiety and depression are common issues for children and teens. But they often won’t share their worries. So parents need to be on the lookout for issues. Watch For Signs Keep an eye out for how they’re feeling. Learn the warning signs of possible problems: Changes in mood or personality Avoiding social interactions Missing school and/or changes in grades Changes in eating or sleeping habits High irritability and/or outbursts Increased physical complaints, like headaches or stomach aches Talking about self-harm or attempting suicide Offer Support Look for ways to offer the support they may need. Start by asking open-ended questions. Some questions you might try are: How are you feeling today? What’s going on that is causing you to feel this way? What was the best part of your day? What was the worst part of your day? What is something you are looking forward to? What is something you are worried about this week? It’s OK if their answers seem short. The goal is to keep talking. Check in with them often. Keep It Going Listen to your teen. Try hard to grasp their feelings and show you care. Remember: Don’t try to solve your teen’s issue. Just show them you’re actively listening. Be patient and don’t judge. Avoid dismissing your teen’s feelings in any way. Be sure not to use terms like “crazy” or “dramatic” or “attention-seeking.” Be caring when you respond. Empathetic responses can help your teen feel understood and more comfortable talking about difficult feelings with you. It also builds trust. Try to say things like: That’s a hard feeling to cope with, but I’m here to support you through this. We can find a way through this together. Work to help them build resilience and coping methods. Being able to deal with changes and challenges is a sign of good mental health. If the steps you take on your own aren’t enough, talk with your child’s doctor. They may be able to help or suggest a qualified therapist, counselor or psychologist. Get Help If a child or teen is showing signs of self-harm or suicidal behaviors, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can help. You can call, text or chat 988 from anywhere in the U.S. Help is available 24/7. Other resources: Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741 or visit crisistextline.org National Alliance on Mental Illness: Visit nami.org Sources: Mental Health Conditions , National Alliance on Mental Illness; How to Show Up For Teenagers With Record Levels of Sadness , National Alliance on Mental Illness; About Children's Mental Health , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2025Mental HealthDepressionChildren’s HealthHealth and WellnessHealthy MindUnderstanding Depression and Anxietyhttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/impact-stress-diabetesFri, 03 Apr 2026 16:41:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:a13aa422-ccff-414b-986f-a0c426290164BCBSIL Connect TeamTraffic was a beast. You lost your phone. A few zeros seem to be missing from your bank balance. When you feel stressed, your body produces two hormones that raise your blood sugar — adrenaline and cortisol. Both are linked to the body’s natural “fight or flight” response, and give your body the energy it needs to flee danger. When their levels remain high for long periods of time, they can take a toll on your health. Weight gain, changes in menstrual cycles and libido, and high blood pressure can all be triggered by high levels of stress hormones. If you have diabetes, they can affect you in another big way. Stress hormones can increase blood sugar (blood glucose) in the body. For people with diabetes types I or on certain medications, the sugar stays until it is moved into cells for energy, converted to fat or flushed out through the urine. This extra sugar can damage the kidneys. Insulin or oral medications may be needed to lower blood glucose levels . Keep Stress in Check Stress is an unavoidable part of life. There are lots of triggers. Work, school, issues at home, relationships, illness, money worries — the list is endless when it comes to things that can ratchet up our stress levels. Too much stress can take a serious toll on even the healthiest person. If you have diabetes, stress can make it more difficult to keep your blood sugar levels in the sweet spot. Knowing your blood sugar levels is vital to living well with diabetes. Although monitoring it can be a literal pain, it’s better to know your glucose numbers than be left in the dark. So, how can you manage and reduce the stress in your life? Here are a few ideas: Know your triggers. Be aware of the situations, worries, even people who bring stress into your life. Find proactive ways to minimize them, manage them or avoid them altogether. Recognize the symptoms. Everyone reacts to stress differently. Pay attention to your body’s signals, then act. It will help you fend off illness, anxiety and other physical effects of stress. Make time to relax and decompress each day. Count to 10 when you feel stress rear its ugly head. Read or listen to your favorite music. Get moving. Go for a walk. Take a yoga class. Do some exercise. Exercise will also help lower your blood sugar. Practice self-care. If work is getting to you, take a personal day. Don’t skimp on sleep. Limit alcohol and caffeine. Resist the urge to keep everything bottled up inside. Talk to a trusted friend or family member about your worries. Consider changes to your insulin therapy or medications. Talk to your diabetes support team (doctors, nurses, educators) first for helpful advice. They are there to help you stay healthy and live well with diabetes. Stress may be a part of our daily lives, but when we learn to manage it and understand its effects, we can take better care of ourselves. Sources: Easing Diabetes Care Stress , American Diabetes Association; How Stress Affects Diabetes and What You Can Do About It , Healthline, 2025; Diabetes and Mental Health , U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024StressHealth and WellnessDiabetesDiabetes Diet and Healthhttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/healthy-gut-healthy-lifeThu, 02 Apr 2026 20:50:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:992f0f68-994e-4d23-bd4c-2dc8c92e0adaBCBSIL Connect TeamYou may have heard that your gut is your second brain. The saying gives a sense of how vital your digestive system is to the rest of your body. But what does it mean? A network of hundreds of millions of nerve cells called neurons line the gut, or your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The gut has the same kinds of neurons as the brain. And there’s also crosstalk between the gut and the brain. The gut doesn’t just control things like our hunger and digestion. It’s a huge part of our immune system. It even contributes to mental well-being, says Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute at Stanford University . GI issues are also often linked to neurological health problems such as Parkinson’s. And 60 percent of people with generalized anxiety also have irritable bowel syndrome. How your gut is working has a big impact on your daily life. And millions of Americans have at least one digestive problem. So how can you keep your gut healthy? Immune Health and What You Eat If you want to boost your immunity, look to the gut, says UCLA Health . That’s because 70 percent of the immune system is found in the gut. Immune cells in the gut interact with all kinds of bacteria and fungi that live there. What you eat and how you take care of your body change the mix. Those gut bugs are healthiest and support strong immunity when you eat plant foods that are high in fiber. A diet high in animal proteins, sugar, processed foods and saturated fat creates gut bacteria that cause inflammation and life-long health problems. A fiber-rich diet, on the other hand, lowers the inflammation response. Think fiber-filled plant foods like apples, broccoli, yams and zucchini. Having extra weight also alters immune function. Fat tissues send out hormones and chemicals that fire up inflammation. There are ways to help your gut help you. The main drivers of gut health change are shifts in stomach acid, gut immunity and the mix of bacteria in your digestive system. When gut health is good, you’re less likely to have harmful inflammation and breaks in immunity, says Johns Hopkins Medicine . To improve your gut health through diet, try to: Pump up the plants. Aim for five to seven servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Eat good fats. They support immune function. Use olive oil to cook and add avocado slices to your salads. Eat wild-caught fish; it’s healthier than farmed varieties. Have protein at each meal, instead of only at dinner. Spread it out. The immune system runs better on more regular servings of protein. Your protein can come from animal products. But don’t forget that plant sources like beans and lentils can be healthier choices. Add spices and herbs to your foods. They add flavor and also support gut-bug diversity. Try fermented and pickled foods, like kefir, kimchi and sauerkraut. More Ways to Boost Your Gut Health Taking care of yourself will help your immune system take care of you, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Since everything in your body ties together, what you eat is important, but it’s just one part of gut health. There are other important ways to keep your gut, and the rest of you, healthier: Get more sleep. Get more exercise. Get a handle on your stress. Get help for anxiety and depression. Making some changes to your life can charge up your immune system for overall better mental and physical health. Sources: If you want to boost immunity, look to the gut , UCLA Health, 2021; Your gut - the second brain? Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute at Stanford University, 2023; Your Digestive System: 5 Ways to Support Gut Health , Johns Hopkins Medicine; Healthy Habits: Enhancing Immunity , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2025NutritionColon HealthInflammationHealthy EatingHealth and Wellnesshttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/healthy-pregnancyThu, 02 Apr 2026 18:40:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:40f18f13-4d9c-43db-a2b7-5f827cf5a719BCBSIL Connect TeamTaking care of your health is always important. But it takes on a new level of importance when a baby enters the picture. It’s important to step up your self-care while you’re trying to get pregnant, during your pregnancy and after you give birth. Make a before, during and after pregnancy wellness plan. There are a lot of steps you can take, and there are ways your family and friends can help. Preventive care services are available for you and your baby at no added cost to you when you use in-network providers.* Find out more about your maternity care services . And get a list of preventive care services for your baby and the rest of your family . Before Pregnancy Some things are important from preconception until after the baby is born: Good eating habits Regular activity Taking care of your mental health By focusing on good health, you can prepare for a healthy pregnancy. These steps can help while you’re trying to get pregnant : Make sure your health screenings and vaccines are up to date. Avoid being around chemicals like pesticides or heavy metals. Don’t smoke or drink alcohol. Don't take any drugs without talking to your doctor first. Talk to your doctor about supplements you may need during pregnancy. And if you are already taking and supplements or OTC or prescription medicines, ask your doctor if they’ll be safe to take during pregnancy. Download our Perinatal Wellness Guidelines for more information about staying healthy during pregnancy. During Pregnancy Your Health Living a healthy life and visiting the doctor regularly are key before and during pregnancy. You’re more likely to have a healthy birth if you have a healthy pregnancy. Some things to talk to your doctor about: Healthy weight gain What you eat How much and what types of exercise you can do What drugs and vitamins you take The impact of stress on your health Pay Close Attention to Your Blood Pressure High blood pressure and its complications are among the leading causes of maternal death. If you have high blood pressure, it is critical to get treatment for it. It can put both you and your baby at risk. It can also cause problems during birth. High blood pressure can cause serious problems during pregnancy, including preeclampsia and stroke. Preeclampsia happens when a woman suddenly develops high blood pressure and signs of liver or kidney damage after the 20th week of pregnancy. Signs of preeclampsia include: A headache that doesn’t go away Changes in eyesight, like blurry vision or seeing spots Pain in your upper stomach area Nausea or vomiting Swelling in your hands or face Sudden weight gain Trouble breathing High blood pressure also puts the baby at risk for early delivery (before 37 weeks) and low birth weight. Baby’s Health Your doctor will track your baby at all stages during your pregnancy. This may include: Ultrasound exams to track your baby's growth and organs with images made from sound waves. Nonstress test to electronically track the baby’s heart rate and movements. Other tests may be needed based on your own health and family health history. That can include checking for high blood sugar levels, which could be a sign of gestational diabetes . After the Baby Comes: Mom’s Mental and Physical Health The postpartum period is the first eight to 12 weeks after your baby is born. It’s important to make an appointment with your doctor for a health check during this time. It’s your chance to make sure you’re healing well and to talk your doctor about your physical and mental health. It’s a good idea to bring a list of any questions you have. New moms worry about many things. Being responsible for a baby can be stressful and overwhelming. One of the keys to success during this time is a strong postpartum support network , says the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. It’s important to have a group of family, friends, and health care professionals you can depend on, and who you can and should ask for help. Some can be there for you in person when you need it. Others may be a phone or video call away. Other important ways to feel better mentally and physically: Get plenty of rest. Allow others to help so that you can rest. Be reasonable about your weight management expectations. It takes time to get your body back to where it was before pregnancy. Ease back into working out, focusing on your core. And try Kegel exercises to help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. Continue your prenatal vitamins. It’s important to restore the nutrients you may have lost during pregnancy, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Your doctor may also suggest an iron supplement and vitamin D. You may have heard of the “baby blues.” If you feel very sad and anxious, and it doesn’t go away, you might have post-partum depression . If you think you may have post-partum depression, it’s important to get help. Talk to your doctor about how you’re feeling and what kind of help you may need. Start off Right: Get Your Baby’s Vaccinations From babyhood to preschool and beyond, keeping your child healthy means following a vaccine schedule. Vaccines protect against serious diseases, like polio, measles, whooping cough, flu and mumps. Those diseases can result in a hospital stay, or even death. It’s important to make sure your child is fully vaccinated against these vaccine-preventable diseases. That means finishing the whole series of recommended shots at the right time. Studies have shown they are safe. For quick reference on the vaccine schedule for children and more, download our Children’s Wellness Guidelines. *Preventive services at no cost applies only to members enrolled in non-grandfathered health plans. You may have to pay all or part of the cost of preventive care if your health plan is grandfathered. To find out if your plan is grandfathered or non-grandfathered, call the customer service number on your member ID card. Sources: Pregnancy , American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; Postpartum Depression , ACOG, 2024; After Pregnancy , ACOG; 5 Reasons Why You Need a Postpartum Support Network , ACOG, 2025; Prenatal Care , U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women’s Health, 2025; Recovering from birth , DHHS, Office on Women’s Health, 2025; Recovering from Delivery (Postpartum Recovery) , American Academy of Family Physicians, 2025; High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Gestational Diabetes , CDC, 2024; Your Body After Baby: The First Six Weeks , March of Dimes, 2023; Routine Tests During Pregnancy , American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2026; Preeclampsia , National Institutes of Health, 2024; Vaccine Safety , Medline Plus, 2021; Have a Healthy Pregnancy , DHHS, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, 2025Mental HealthPreventive CarePregnancyHealth and WellnessWomen’s HealthPregnancy Basicshttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/minutes-of-movementThu, 02 Apr 2026 18:34:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:81a6df6b-31ac-4316-bbc0-7d390919e9a4BCBSIL Connect TeamNot being active can be dangerous for your health. Inactivity raises the chance of getting serious health problems like heart disease and diabetes. Yet 1 in 2 adults — and 77 percent of high school students — don’t get enough physical activity. The good news: getting more exercise doesn’t have to take a lot of time. You can find ways to add physical activity to your day, no matter how busy you are. The payoff can be a healthier body and mind. Move More for a Better Life People of all ages can benefit from more physical activity. Any amount of physical activity has some benefits, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . People who sit less and do any amount of moderate to vigorous physical activity gain some health benefits. The health benefits are many : It helps reduce your risk for many chronic diseases, like heart disease, stroke and diabetes. It helps you maintain a healthy weight. That helps avoid many serious health issues. Along with healthy eating, routine workouts can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes in adults with prediabetes. People with arthritis who do “joint-friendly” workouts like walking, biking and swimming can reduce their pain and boost their range of movement and mood. Adding activity helps lower the risk of high blood pressure, which also lowers your chances of having a heart attack or stroke. Being active can even help lower the risk of some types of cancer. It can help reduce pain and inflammation. Regular activity can help keep muscles and bones strong. That helps maintain better function and can help you avoid falls and other injuries. Exercise can improve brain health. In addition to helping prevent illness and injury, being active can make your life better each day. More activity can: Improve your mood Sharpen your focus Lower your stress Help your sleep Increase your energy levels Start Small The key is to just get started. Everyone needs both aerobic and muscle-strengthening movement. You can start by looking for ways to stand a bit more, take a few more steps, add some stretching into your chores. You can find ways to move more throughout your day. Then when you have a few minutes, you can start doing more. Try walking five minutes each hour. You can walk around your home or office. You can even multitask by walking during a phone call or online meeting. You can even get a mini workout when you do your household chores. It all adds up. If you’re planning to start new fitness efforts, talk to your doctor about what is best for you, especially if you have health issues. But basics like walking and stretching are safe for most people. But if you have symptoms like chest pain, unexplained fatigue or shortness of breath during or after activity, call your doctor right away. Try Something Different Doing different types of exercises can keep you from getting bored. More importantly, it can expand the range of benefits you’ll experience . Try to include activities in your routine from these four categories: Aerobic/Cardiovascular activity : Aerobic activity helps improve heart and lung fitness. It includes walking, jogging, swimming and dancing. Muscle-strengthening activity : Helps maintain or increase strength, endurance and power. In addition to training with weights or resistance bands, it includes everyday activities like lifting children, carrying groceries or climbing stairs. You can also do squats, lunges and other exercises that use your body weight for resistance. Flexibility training : Stretching helps joints and muscles, providing a greater range of movement and better posture. It can also help you avoid injury. It’s beneficial to stretch before and after aerobic or strengthening exercise. But you can stretch any time to improve your overall flexibility. Be sure to stretch the right way to get the best benefit and avoid injury. Balance training : Improving balance boosts body control and stability to help avoid injuries. Try standing with your weight on one foot and lifting the other foot. Or walk a straight line, heel-to-toe. Most adults should aim for moderate aerobic movement for at least 150 minutes each week. Activity can be spread out so you can fit it into your schedule. Aim for at least twice a week for strengthening activities. For balance and flexibility training, spend a few minutes several times a week or daily. Get more ideas, including tips for children, seniors and people with physical challenges or medical conditions, from Move Your Way. Get Going Whatever activity you choose to do, just get started now. Even short periods of physical activity done regularly can have a positive impact on your health and your quality of life. Sources: Move Your Way , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2025; Adding Activity as an Adult , CDC, 2025; Adult Activity: An Overview , CDC, 2023; Benefits of Physical Activity , CDC, 2025; Staying Active , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 2022; Workout Results: 12 Ways Exercise Benefits Your Body , Cleveland Clinic, 2025; Aerobic Exercise , Cleveland Clinic, 2023; What Is Muscular Strength, and What Are Some Exercises You Can Do? , Healthline, 2019; How to improve your flexibility, according to physiotherapists , Live Science, 2022; Six tips for safe stretches , Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School, 2019; Balance Training , WebMD, 2023ExerciseHealth and WellnessWeight ManagementHealthy LivingHealthy Mindhttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/measure-blood-pressureThu, 02 Apr 2026 17:11:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:303d94da-a88c-474f-9f3a-be8c2a897da1BCBSIL Connect TeamHigh blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a serious health problem that often has no symptoms. Often called "the silent killer" it doesn't always have symptoms. You can have high blood pressure for years and not even know it. It’s important to know if you do. Left untreated, it can cause serious harm to your heart, kidneys and eyes. People with high blood pressure also have a greater risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Since high blood pressure usually doesn't cause noticeable symptoms, checking your blood pressure regularly is vital — even when you feel fine. Whether you have your blood pressure checked at the doctor’s office or take it at home, it’s important to make sure it’s done right. Your care is based on the results. Measuring your blood pressure with care helps ensure accurate result. Try these tips to get a good reading: Don't exercise, drink caffeine or smoke within 30 minutes of checking your blood pressure. Rest for five minutes before you take your reading. Be still, sit up straight and keep your feet on the ground. Support your arm on a desk or table. Keep it level with your heart. Pull your shirt sleeve up. You may not get an accurate reading over clothes. Make sure the cuff is in the right place. The bottom should be just above the bend of your elbow. Try two or three readings, especially if the first reading is high or low. Wait one to three minutes between readings. If you’re keeping track at home, track your numbers and share them with your doctor. Even if you’re at the doctor’s office, don’t be afraid to speak up if you see your blood pressure isn’t being taken correctly. Ask to have it taken again if the reading is higher or lower than the normal range. Take charge of your health by making sure you get accurate results. If you want to track of your blood pressure at home, get a home device with an arm cuff. Devices that go on the finger or wrist may not be as accurate as an arm cuff. Get one that automatically pumps up the cuff. Make sure the cuff fits right. Make sure the cuff fits right. And take it with you to a doctor’s visit at least once a year to make sure the readings are right. Have the doctor watch you use your device to make sure you’re using it correctly. If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about what changes you can make to keep it under control. Your Blood Pressure and Your Health Read Checking Your Blood Pressure Could Save Your Life to learn more about blood pressure and why it’s so important to know your numbers and keep them in a safe range. Sources: What is High Blood Pressure? , American Heart Association, 2025; Home Blood Pressure Monitoring , American Heart Association, 2025; Track you blood pressure at home the right way , Harvard Medical School, 2026Living with Heart Disease and High Blood PressureHealth Conditions and PreventionBlood PressureHealth and WellnessHypertensionLiving with Hypertensionhttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/blood-pressureThu, 02 Apr 2026 14:03:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:36194f7a-efae-432b-9981-05f755462bcdBCBSIL Connect TeamKeeping your blood pressure in a healthy range is one of the best things you can do for your health. That’s because high blood pressure is the single biggest risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and other health problems. Nearly half of adults in the U.S., about 120 million people, have high blood pressure, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . And only 25 percent of them have it under control. High blood pressure (HBP) can be deadly. And many people don’t know they have it. That’s why it’s called "the silent killer." The only way to know if you’re at risk is to have it checked often. What Exactly Is It? Blood pressure is the force of blood against your artery walls as it circulates through your body. Blood pressure often rises and falls throughout the day, but it can cause health problems if it stays high. Are You at Risk? Anyone, including children, can have it. Some things that are beyond your control can raise your risk for high blood pressure. These include your age, sex, and race or ethnicity. But you can lower your risk with lifestyle changes . That includes keeping a healthy weight, being physically active, not smoking and eating a healthy diet. Talk with your doctor about what you can do to lower your risk for high blood pressure. What Are the Signs and Symptoms? High blood pressure usually has no warning signs or symptoms, so many people don’t realize they have it. That’s why it’s vital to have your blood pressure checked regularly . How Do You Know if It’s High? Checking your blood pressure is the only way to find out if you have high blood pressure. Blood pressure readings measure two things. One is the force that pushes on the walls of your blood vessels as they carry blood and oxygen to your organs. That is called systolic pressure. The second number is the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart rests between beats. That is called diastolic pressure. If either number is too high, it means that your blood vessels are under too much pressure. That can raise your risk for blood clots and other serious health problems. One method of checking is at your doctor’s office. Most often, they’ll check it by wrapping an inflatable cuff with a pressure gauge around your arm to squeeze the blood vessels. Then they listen to your pulse with a stethoscope while releasing air from the cuff. The gauge measures the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart beats (systolic) and when it rests (diastolic). Another method is checking your blood pressure at home. Home blood pressure monitors are easy to find and start about $20. And they’re easy to use. Many store your readings so you can show them to your doctor. It’s a good way to track an important measure of your health. Home blood pressure monitoring can be an important part of managing blood pressure. But many people don’t do it. In a study of adults 50 to 80 years old, less than half of those with high blood pressure (hypertension) regularly checked their blood pressure. Like any other healthy habit, monitoring your blood pressure at home only helps if you do it. Try linking it to something you remember to do regularly. Or aim for the same time each day. Soon you won’t even have to remind yourself. Whether you get your blood pressure measured at your doctor’s office or do it yourself at home, it’s important to make sure it’s being measured correctly . How Is It Treated? If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medicine to treat it. And lifestyle changes can be just as important as taking medicines. Try these tips for lowering your blood pressure from the American Heart Association: Eat a healthy diet. Limit salt (sodium), fat and cholesterol. Maintain a healthy weight. Talk with your doctor if you need help. Avoid or limit alcohol. Make staying active a daily part of your life. Talk with your doctor before starting any type of exercise program. If you smoke, quit. Manage stress and tension. Try walking, writing in a journal, meditation, relaxation techniques or yoga. Get your family involved in your plan. If you have high blood pressure, be sure to check it regularly and take any medicine your doctor orders as directed. If you have any side effects, don’t stop taking it without checking with your doctor first. Sources: High Blood Pressure , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Measuring Your Blood Pressure , CDC, 2024; High Blood Pressure Facts , CDC, 2025; High Blood Pressure Risk Factors , CDC, 2024; High Blood Pressure , American Heart Association; Prevalence and Frequency of Self-measured Blood Pressure Monitoring in US Adults Aged 50-80 Years , JAMA Network Medical News, 2022Blood PressureHeart Health TipsHealth and WellnessHypertensionHypertension Helpful Tipshttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/what-is-hypothyroidismThu, 02 Apr 2026 11:21:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:b9feecf7-733f-4ede-9d62-ce4f0604314eBCBSIL Connect TeamYour thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck that makes and releases certain hormones. Its main job is to control your metabolism, which is how your body uses energy. Sometimes the thyroid doesn’t work as it should. This can lead to an overactive (hyper) or underactive (hypo) thyroid. Both conditions are treatable. The thyroid gland makes two primary hormones – T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). They’re released into the bloodstream and carried to every tissue in the body, affecting almost every organ system. They help the body use energy, regulate your temperature. These hormones also help keep the brain, heart, gut, reproductive organs and other parts of your body working properly. Sometimes, the thyroid doesn’t function as it should. Hypothyroidism When your thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones, the condition is called hypothyroidism . Hypothyroidism is often caused by autoimmune disease, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis . Other causes include radiation to the neck, some medications, surgical removal of the gland, a brain injury, pregnancy and low levels of iodine in the diet. A family history of the disease can also mean that you are at higher risk for it. Women have a higher risk for hypothyroidism than men. Women may experience changes in their menstrual cycles and issues with fertility. Common symptoms for men and women include unexplained weight gain, depression, fatigue, hair loss, dry skin, constipation, feeling cold, a slow heart rate, memory and concentration problems, and swelling in the neck. Hypothyroid disease often progresses slowly. There may be no signs of the disease early on. When symptoms do show up, they may be subtle at first. Common early signs include fatigue and weight gain. People often miss the signs because they think their symptoms are just part of getting older or caused by a different health issue. But if untreated, hypothyroidism can increase your risk for serious health problems like heart disease, infertility, depression and nerve damage. Talk to your doctor if you have any of the symptoms, especially if they are new to you. Your doctor may ask you about your medical and family history to see if you have risk factors for thyroid disease. Hypothyroidism is diagnosed with a physical exam and blood tests. The disease is treated with medicine that replaces thyroid hormones to their correct levels so the body can function properly. Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism can be caused by several medical problems, including Graves’ Disease, thyroiditis, and lumps or nodules on the thyroid. Family history, some chronic diseases and pregnancy can raise your risk for hyperthyroidism. There are many symptoms, including unexplained weight loss, hand tremors, dry skin, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, mood swings or anxiety, feeling weak or tired, muscle weakness, swelling in the neck, and trouble sleeping. Women may have changes in their menstrual cycle. Like with hypothyroidism, symptoms may not be obvious at first and can be easily confused with other health issues. And it also causes serious health problems if not treated. It can lead to atrial fibrillation, congestive heart failure, vision problems and brittle bones. Hyperthyroidism may be treated with medicines that stop the gland from making too much T3 and T4. Beta blockers may also be prescribed to slow hormone production. Sometimes treatment includes surgery to remove all or part of the thyroid gland. If you think you may have any type of thyroid problem, talk with your doctor. Being proactive about your health can make a big difference in your quality of life. Sources: Hypothyroidism , American Thyroid Association; Hyperthyroidism , American Thyroid Association; Hashimoto’s Disease , Mayo Clinic, 2025; Thyroiditis , WebMD, 2022; Hypothyroidism , Mayo Clinic, 2022; Hyperthyroidism , Mayo Clinic, 2022NutritionExerciseThyroidHealth and WellnessWeight ManagementCancerhttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/learn-about-different-levels-of-careThu, 02 Apr 2026 09:03:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:8a3d2ff2-8023-474f-bb2b-7e97c77eabdeBCBSIL Connect TeamWould you know what to do if a friend or family member needed help with a mental health or substance use issue? What kind of help would they need? Who could help? Not knowing what to do can be scary and confusing. But there are many things you can do to support your loved one. Where to Start? First, take steps to learn about what you are seeing. Ask questions to learn: Are they having thoughts of harming themselves or others? Can they stay safe? Are they struggling with work or school? Are they feeling less connected to family and friends? Next Steps If you’ve found that your loved one needs help, learn about levels of care for mental health or substance use issues. Levels of Care are the types of health care offered based on the patient’s symptoms. Usually, a health care provider recommends a particular level of care based on a person’s specific needs. An acute inpatient hospital is for someone who: Has thoughts of hurting themselves or others. Has challenges with drug or alcohol use and/or difficulty stopping using substances on their own. Can’t function due to an underlying mental health or substance use disorder. Needs urgent help. Hospitals are the most intensive and restrictive level of care. They provide 24-hour treatment and offer medication management, psychotherapy (talk therapy) and withdrawal management. What if a person is not in crisis but needs around-the-clock supervision and structure? They could seek care at a Residential Treatment Center (RTC). RTCs offer mental health and substance use treatment in a residential setting. RTCs have 24-hour nursing help and doctors on call. They help people with long-term or severe mental health issues. They also help people with alcohol and other substance use disorders. RTCs offer a high degree of safety, supervision and structure. They promote healthy habits as well as successful stabilization, withdrawal management and rehabilitation. Some people may go to a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). It is not a residential program with 24-hour supervision. PHP provides intensive mental health and substance use treatment in an outpatient setting. Often, these programs run for at least five hours a day, five or more days a week. People usually go home in the evenings. These programs are highly structured to and offer help in a safe setting. This level of care also gives in-home support or access by phone for after-hours help. What if the person is working or in school full time? Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are less restrictive than PHPs. They take place three days each week for at least two hours a day, allowing people to get care while still keeping their usual daily routine. These programs offer individual and group therapy to help people learn skills to manage their mental health and substance use needs. Can less frequent care still be helpful? Outpatient (OP) care can take place in an office setting. OP may offer one-on-one, family or group care. It can involve psychotherapy and medication management. The frequency and duration of treatment varies depending on each person’s needs. Which Health Care Providers Can Help? Your loved one may see different types of caregivers in any of these levels of care. Psychiatrist Psychiatrists have a medical degree and can manage medicines in all levels of care. They can provide psychotherapy. They can also admit and treat people in hospital settings. Psychologist They have a doctoral degree in psychology. They can provide psychotherapy. They can give and interpret psychological tests. They can prescribe medicine if licensed in New Mexico, Illinois, Iowa and Idaho. Advanced Psychiatric Nurse (APRN)/Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) APRNs and ANPs provide assessment, diagnosis and therapy for mental health conditions or substance use disorders. In some states, they also prescribe and monitor medications. Physician Assistant (PA) Physician assistants practice medicine on a team under the supervision of physicians or psychiatrists. They examine patients and provide care. Master's Level Behavioral Health Care Provider They have master’s degrees and a professional license to conduct psychotherapy. They cannot prescribe medicine. Common titles: Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). They provide applied behavioral analysis (ABA) for people with an autism diagnosis. Source: Types of Mental Health Professionals , National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2020Understanding Behavioral HealthMental HealthBehavioral HealthHealth and WellnessHealthy Mindhttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/are-you-paralyzed-by-social-anxietyTue, 31 Mar 2026 09:17:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:ab5c4644-d5d8-47a4-a5ca-365db05d7635BCBSIL Connect TeamDo you have a friend who always bails when you make plans? They may not be trying to avoid you. Sometime this can happen when people have social anxiety. Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a long-term mental health issue. It affects millions in the U.S., says the National Institute of Mental Health . On one end of the scale, there is “normal” nervousness. It might be the way you feel speaking before a crowd, going on a first date or starting a new job. On the other end, there is a full-blown panic attack. Social anxiety disorder lies somewhere in between. Sometimes normal day-to-day events become paralyzing. People with social anxiety often have one or more common symptoms. They may: Feel self-consciousness or fear of being judged Have a rapid heartbeat Worry for days or weeks about an upcoming event or activity Blush, tremble or sweat Experience dizziness, nausea or headaches Avoid places or events where there will be people Social anxiety can be selective. For example, a person may not feel anxious speaking in public. Yet, the thought of eating or drinking in public may be debilitating. Luckily, anxiety can be managed with professional therapy, medication or self-help methods. Self-help Tips To help keep yourself calm and learn to overcome your anxious feelings, there are a few things you can try: Try challenging your negative thoughts and replacing them with more helpful, positive ones. Recognize your triggers. Use techniques like relaxation and breathing exercises to reduce symptoms like feeling overwhelmed. Start with small social changes. Ask that question in class or chat with someone in the check-out line or elevator to get the feel for being engaged. If you suffer from anxiety, you are not alone. Your best plan of action is to learn about it. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. Just like asthma and any other health problem, anxiety can be managed. Things can be different with just a little help. If someone you love suffers from anxiety, be patient and understanding. Most of all, be there for them. Source: Social Anxiety Disorder: More Than Just Shyness , National Institutes of Mental Health, 2025; Ready to Overcome Social Anxiety? These 8 Tips Can Help , Heatlhline, 2024AnxietySocial WellnessMental HealthHealth and WellnessHealthy MindUnderstanding Depression and Anxietyhttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/advocate-for-own-careTue, 24 Mar 2026 15:01:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:05e74750-678d-44b8-bbb0-ab42015c8788BCBSIL Connect TeamPrevention is an important part of being healthy. That can mean having a yearly exam. It can mean having routine screening tests that can help spot many potential problems before they become serious health issues. Whether you’re making sure to get the preventive care you need or dealing with an illness, stepping up to help direct your own health care can have life-changing results. Get Involved in Your Care It is vital to be your own health advocate throughout your life. From knowing your family history to understanding changes in your body, you know more about your needs than anyone. What steps can you take to be more actively involved in your health care? Do your own research. For someone with a family history of cancer, that may mean getting genetic testing to find out if you are at risk, too. For others it may mean learning the details of your family health history. Knowing your family history is key. It’s especially important to look at close, blood-related family members, such as parents and siblings — male and female. Finding out about more distant relatives’ health is also important. All of these details will help your doctor decide next steps. Speak up. It’s essential to be involved in your care and get the answers you need. Keep asking questions until you understand. Keep notes on what you’re told. And be sure to share important information like family history and any changes in how you’re feeling with your provider. This information helps your provider give you the best care possible. Find support. Whatever the issue, others have faced similar problems. There are support groups and online forums for just about any health condition. And talk to other family members. You don’t have to go it alone. Expect results. It’s critical to have doctors who listen to you. If you don’t feel you’re being heard, consider changing doctors or getting a second opinion. Catch Breast Cancer Early For women with a family history of breast cancer, screenings are a big part of fighting a cancer diagnosis. Screenings help lower the chances of dying from breast cancer. They can help spot the disease early, when it’s simpler to treat. If you are a woman age 20 or older, talk to your doctor about clinical breast exams. If you are over the age of 40, talk about the benefits and risks of having a mammogram. Decades of research shows that women who have routine mammograms are more likely to find breast cancer early. For many, that means they’re more likely to be cured. If your results are normal, keep getting mammograms according to the plan you’ve set with your doctor. A yearly well-woman exam is a good time to talk about the timing that’s best for you. Many screenings are covered by your health plan at no cost when services are provided by a doctor in your health plan’s network.* That includes mammograms, Pap tests and colorectal cancer screenings. Health plans also often cover genetic counseling and testing for those with certain family histories. Genetic testing and counselors are covered without cost-sharing if you qualify. *Preventive services at no cost applies only to members enrolled in non-grandfathered health plans. You may have to pay all or part of the cost of preventive care if your health plan is grandfathered. To find out if your plan is grandfathered or non-grandfathered, call the customer service number on your member ID card. Sources: Don’t Be Shy: 4 Tips for Talking to Your Doctor , Johns Hopkins Medicine; Are You Up to Date on Your Preventive Care? , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2025; How to Talk to Your Doctor: 8 Tips for Better Communication , Scripps Health, 2026; Breast Cancer Screening , National Cancer Institute, 2025; Bring Your Brave Campaign - Take Action , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; About Mammograms , CDC, 2024; Breast Cancer Early Detection and Diagnosis , American Cancer SocietyAdult HealthPreventive CareHealth and Wellnesshttps://connect.bcbsil.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/are-you-aware-of-your-colon-understanding-colon-healthSat, 21 Mar 2026 00:14:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:af774075-2b58-463f-b15a-a0320e3c8824BCBSIL Connect TeamNo one likes to talk about colon cancer. And that’s OK, as long as you take steps to protect yourself. After all, colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. And, nearly one half (45%) of new colon cancer diagnoses are currently in individuals younger than 65. A good place to start taking action is by getting a preventive screening. Talk with your doctor about when you should be screened and how often. Your age and family history will play a role in deciding what’s best for you. Why is Screening Important? Small growths, called polyps, can grow along the colon lining. Some of these polyps can be cancerous or become cancerous if left untreated. A colonoscopy can help find these growths and possible cancers early. Early detection offers a better chance for successful treatment and recovery. Are There Warning Signs? Before it has grown or spread, colon cancer often doesn’t have any symptoms. There may be warning signs, though. Pay attention if you notice any: Change in bowel habits or stool shape that lasts more than a few days and isn’t caused by a change in diet Cramping or stomach pain Unexplained weight loss Fatigue, shortness of breath or weakness due to anemia Rectal bleeding Blood in the stool or toilet after a bowel movement Dark or black stools An urge to go even though the bowel is empty Your doctor may recommend a colon screening if you have one or more symptoms. When and How Should I Be Screened? While the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends adults 45-75 be screened, talk about the risks and benefits with your health care provider. Ask when and how often you should be screened.* If you have a family history of colon cancer or other health issues that put you at higher risk, your doctor may advise earlier or more frequent screening. Today, there are simple noninvasive screening choices, too. Talk to your health care provider (doctor, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, etc.) about which ones may be right for you. Each has advantages and disadvantages. The test you and your health care provider choose may depend on your preferences and medical condition. The most common screening option is colonoscopy. Using a flexible, lighted tube equipped with a small camera, your doctor can look at the whole rectum and colon for signs of cancer. Precancerous polyps may even be removed during the test. Some people avoid a colonoscopy because they worry it might be painful. But the test is quick and painless. You are asleep during the test, and it takes less than an hour. Other screening options include: Fecal occult blood test: This lab test scans a stool sample for blood, a possible sign of cancer. Fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) uses antibodies to spot blood in the stool. Fecal immunochemical testing (FIT)-DNA combines FIT with a test that finds changes in the DNA of stool. Sigmoidoscopy: This method looks only at the rectum and the lower colon. Virtual colonoscopy: A CT scan gives detailed images of the colon. Are There Ways to Prevent Colon Cancer? While there is no sure way to stop colon cancer from developing, you can take steps to help lower your risk. Eat a diet that’s high in fruits, vegetables and fiber. Stay away from red, grilled and processed meat. Avoid smoking, heavy use of alcohol and inactive lifestyles. Exercise Keep your weight in check. Learn more about colon cancer and other recommended health screenings in our Adult Wellness Guidelines . As always, check to make sure your care and testing providers are in network. Show your insurance ID card so providers can check if they are part of your health plan network. For details about your benefits coverage, log in to your member account online . * Recommendations may vary. Discuss screening options with your health care provider, especially if you are at increased risk. Sources: Colorectal Cancer Statistics, 2026 , American Cancer Society, 2026; Colorectal Cancer , U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2025; Colorectal Cancer: Screening , U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 2021; Colon Cancer Mayo Clinic, 2024; Colon Cancer (Colorectal Cancer) Cleveland Clinic, 2025Colon HealthHealth Conditions and PreventionHealth and WellnessCancerUnderstanding Colon Health