Diabetes, Hypertension & Cholesterol Care

Diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol do not hurt, but they damage the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves when nobody keeps watch. At Clínica Hispana Corazón y Vida in Pasadena we provide that follow-up in Spanish, with the lab in the same place and no appointment.

What does chronic condition management include?

• Initial evaluation with history, blood pressure, weight, and blood and urine tests.
• Personalized targets for glucose, A1c, blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Starting or adjusting medications based on results.
• A realistic eating and physical activity plan for your routine.
• Foot, kidney and blood pressure checks at every visit, plus a reminder for the yearly retina exam.
• Follow-up visits every three to six months.

Which targets are used?

• A1c: below 7% for most adults with diabetes.
• Fasting glucose: between 80 and 130 mg/dL.
• Blood pressure: below 130/80 for most patients with diabetes or cardiovascular risk.
• LDL cholesterol: below 100 mg/dL, and lower if there has already been a heart problem.

The provider adjusts these targets according to your age, other conditions and how you tolerate medications.

How often should I come?

When a treatment is started or changed, in four to eight weeks to check the effect. With a stable condition, every three months if diabetes is still being adjusted and every six months once targets hold. Once a year, kidneys, cholesterol and feet are reviewed in full.

What is the visit like?

1. Vital signs and review of your home glucose or blood pressure log.
2. In-clinic tests: glucose, A1c, lipid profile, creatinine, urine.
3. Consultation to interpret results and adjust treatment.
4. Prescription, written instructions and the date of the next check.

Bring your medication list, your glucose meter or blood pressure cuff, and previous lab results.

When should I not wait for the next visit?

Blood pressure of 180/120 or higher with headache, chest pain or blurred vision; glucose above 300 mg/dL with intense thirst, vomiting or rapid breathing; or glucose below 70 mg/dL that does not rise after eating. In those cases go to the emergency room.

How much does it cost?

The visit and each test have a direct price, no insurance, in cash or by card. Ask on WhatsApp at (346) 646-2974 before you come. If you have no insurance, see how to get medical care without insurance in Houston.

Where and when?

Walk in at 918 W Southmore Ave, Suite 180, Pasadena, TX 77502, every day from 9 AM to 9 PM. Also read our guide to managing diabetes.