Tag Archives: Heart Condition

The Difference Between Commercial and Concierge Health Services | Fullerton, CA

Concierge and commercial medical services represent two distinct approaches to healthcare delivery, each offering unique benefits and considerations for patients. Understanding the differences between these models can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Concierge medical services, often referred to as boutique or personalized medicine, prioritize individualized care and enhanced patient-provider relationships. In a concierge practice, patients typically pay an annual or monthly fee in exchange for exclusive access to their physician and a comprehensive array of services. This fee-based model allows for longer appointment times, same-day or next-day appointments, and increased availability for communication with healthcare providers. Additionally, concierge practices often offer preventive services, wellness programs, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs and preferences. This personalized approach fosters a deeper level of trust and collaboration between patients and their healthcare providers, leading to more proactive and effective healthcare management.

On the other hand, commercial medical services operate within the traditional fee-for-service or insurance-based healthcare system. In this model, patients typically pay for medical services on a per-visit basis or through their insurance plans. Commercial practices may have larger patient volumes, shorter appointment times, and less emphasis on personalized care and preventive services. While commercial medical services offer a wide range of medical treatments and specialties, patients may experience longer wait times for appointments, limited access to their healthcare providers, and less continuity of care.

One of the key differences between concierge and commercial medical services lies in the level of access and attention patients receive from their healthcare providers. In a concierge practice, patients often have direct access to their physician via phone, email, or virtual consultations, leading to more timely and personalized care. In contrast, patients in commercial practices may have to navigate through administrative hurdles and wait times to communicate with their healthcare providers.

Ultimately, the choice between concierge and commercial medical services depends on individual preferences, healthcare needs, and financial considerations.

If you would like to learn more about how you can ensure your health, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 or visit our website at www.gordongunnm.com for more information regarding women’s health. 

Dr. Gordon Gunn proudly serves Buena Park, La Mirada, Yorba Linda, Diamond Bar, Walnut and all surrounding areas.

Understanding Concierge Medical Services | Fullerton, CA

Concierge medical services offer a comprehensive approach to healthcare, providing patients with personalized attention and a wide range of preventive measures tailored to their individual needs. As a gynecologist, my journey into concierge medicine began over 25 years ago when I recognized the need for a more holistic approach to women’s health. Since then, I have expanded my services to encompass not only gynecology but also preventative cardiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, female urology, and my unique Longevity Program.

My philosophy is simple: provide the best medical care possible by staying updated with the latest research and offering a clear understanding of options to achieve optimal health. This commitment to excellence has led me to continually expand my services, now catering to both female and male patients.

The scope of my concierge medical care is extensive, covering a broad spectrum of preventive measures and screenings. My Longevity Program offers an in-depth evaluation and examination, preventive cardiology, and assessments for conditions like prediabetes and atherosclerosis. Additionally, I provide genetic testing for various diseases, including Alzheimer’s and cardiovascular conditions, enabling early detection and personalized interventions.

Annual medical screenings form a crucial part of my practice, ensuring early detection of potential health issues. For women, this includes clinical breast exams, pelvic exams, and screenings for sexually transmitted infections, while men undergo testicular exams and other relevant screenings. Everyone can benefit from regular physical exams, blood work, and immunizations based on their age and risk factors, regardless of gender.

As patients age, the frequency and scope of screenings evolve to address changing health needs. For instance, individuals aged 40 and above undergo mammograms, prostate screenings, and Boston Heart Diagnostics’ proprietary cardiovascular risk screenings. Those over 50 receive additional screenings for osteoporosis, lung cancer, and immunizations against shingles and pneumonia.

Concierge medical services prioritize proactive health management, empowering patients to take control of their well-being through personalized preventive measures. By offering comprehensive evaluations, screenings, and ongoing support, I strive to ensure that each patient receives the highest standard of care, tailored to their unique health profile and goals.

If you would like to learn more about how you can ensure your health, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 or visit our website at www.gordongunnm.com for more information regarding women’s health. 

Dr. Gordon Gunn proudly serves Buena Park, La Mirada, Yorba Linda, Diamond Bar, Walnut, and all surrounding areas.

Here’s How You Can Boost Your Health | Fullerton, CA

Smart lifestyle choices are the key to enjoying the most life has to offer. If you’re wondering how you can make a change that is going to make you feel better, these are some things we invite you to consider.

Your Eating Habits. Eating as many natural, unprocessed foods as possible is the first major component of health. Whole grains, fiber-rich foods, and lean meats and fish are the foundation of a well-rounded diet, as well as low-fat dairy products. Maintaining a properly balanced diet of natural foods helps you maintain your weight, ensures you are getting the vitamins and minerals you need, and can help you fight a variety of illnesses.

Get Active. Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States. Regular exercise, even just a 30-minute walk per day, or at least five days per week, is a great way to be active. Regular exercise maintains heart health, reduces the risk of obesity (which can lead to other health complications), and offers an opportunity to take a mental health break.

Manage Your Stress. Whether we feel the pressure from our work or home life, chronic or accumulated stress over time can quickly degrade our quality of life. Meditation, yoga, exercise, reading, or any other activity that allows you to take a step back and relax will help keep your stress under control, and it’s very important we all find something that works for us.

Kick Harmful Habits. Tobacco products, cigarette smoke, and drugs are all things we should avoid if we want to boost our health. The consumption of alcohol, if you do, should be kept in moderation; binge drinking is not only a poor health choice, it may indicate that there are deeper problems to address.

Wear Sunscreen Daily. Skin cancer is a very real concern for people, as it can afflict anyone, at any age. Wear sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 15, and when possible, wear a hat or other SPF-rated clothing when you intend to be in the sun for prolonged amounts of time. Check your skin for concerning discoloration or moles, and have them evaluated by a dermatologist if they change over time.

Women Should Check For Breast Cancer. Women are recommended to perform monthly breast exams. In the shower, place one hand over your head, and with the opposite hand, use two fingers to make small circles as you work around your entire breast, and repeat on the opposite side. You are attempting to feel for any lumps in the breast that may indicate a pose tally cancerous tumor. Women prone to breast cancer should begin receiving yearly mammograms at the age of 35, and those without a family history should begin at 40.

Follow these tips to boost your health, your body and mind will thank you for it.

If you would like to learn more about how you can ensure your health, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 or visit our website at www.gordongunnm.com for more information regarding women’s health. 

Dr. Gordon Gunn proudly serves Buena Park, La Mirada, Yorba Linda, Diamond Bar, Walnut and all surrounding areas.

The Symptoms and Causes of Stress, and How To Overcome It | Fullerton, CA

In this fast-paced world, we are all juggling responsibilities at home, work, and in our personal lives which cause us stress. Stress is a normal part of being human, and helps us navigate the world in its own way. Yet, chronic stress can be very detrimental to our health and well-being. Chronic stress is believed to raise the risk of increased blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic back pain, and depression, and inhibit our immune response. The symptoms of stress can stem from a variety of factors, but overcoming it is key.

Common Symptoms of Stress

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Recurring nightmares
  • Irritability
  • Headaches
  • Backaches
  • Loss of concentration

If you are experiencing an undue amount of daily stress, we invite you to consider the following.

  • Exercise regularly engaging in both aerobic and weight training.
  • Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation deep breathing exercises.
  • Maintain your immune system by eating well-balanced meals, exercising regularly, and getting sufficient sleep.
  • Discuss your symptoms and your feelings about them.
  • Keep a diary to gain insight into your concerns and emotional patterns.
  • Avoid destructive behaviors, including overindulgence of alcohol, caffeine, or smoking.

Stress happens, but it’s important to recognize the symptoms, discover the causes, and reach out for help in navigating away from stress to maintain your quality of life.

If you would like more information about dealing with stress, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to schedule an appointment today.

Dr. Gunn proudly serves Fullerton and all surrounding areas.

What To Know About Recovering From A Heart Attack | Fullerton, CA

Heart attacks are a jolting experience. They can make anyone overwhelmed, anxious, fearful, and like their world has been turned on its head, and for good reason. Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in the United States. The following are ways you can begin recovering from a heart attack, and help yourself avoid one.

Take Your Medication. If you have had a heart attack, or have hypertension that puts you at an increased risk for a heart attack, be sure to take any prescribed medication as recommended by your doctor. It’s important to maintain your regimen, even if it comes with an adjustment period.

Quit Smoking. Cigarettes are a primary risk factor for heart disease. The carcinogenic ingredients in the cigarette and the smoke are awful for our health. Just one year after quitting cigarettes greatly reduces your risk of a heart attack.

Manage Stress. Chronically elevated levels of cortisol degrade your health over time in a number of ways that makes you more prone to experiencing a heart attack. Practice yoga, meditation, regular exercise, reading, or any other activities that help you take a moment for yourself away from the things that stress you out.

Eat Well. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet of high fiber, natural, and whole grain foods is paramount to retaining a healthy body weight, and keeps your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels within the normal range.

Stay Active. Going for a 30-minute walk, five times a week is an easy way to remain active if you have experienced a heart attack, or want to reduce your risk. Swimming, biking, running, and any other cardio you enjoy also work to maintain your health and reduce risk.

If you would like more information on recovery after a heart attack, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to schedule an appointment today. 

A Guide to Cholesterol | Fullerton, CA

How much do we really understand about the different types of cholesterol, how high cholesterol can impact our health, and what we can do about mitigating the likelihood we develop high cholesterol? Many don’t, so we have put together a guide so you can better understand cholesterol, and make informed decisions for your well-being. To start, the liver produces 90% of the body’s cholesterol and does so while we sleep, while only 10% of cholesterol is derived from the foods we eat.

Cholesterol is an essential building block for the normal metabolism of the body. Cholesterol is a type of fat known as a lipid. Lipids cannot circulate alone in the bloodstream, they require a means of transportation. Water-soluble proteins, called lipoproteins transport cholesterol in the blood, and the amount of lipoprotein determines how much cholesterol can be moved. The three types of lipoproteins are:

High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) – This is casually known as “good” cholesterol because it removes cholesterol from arterial plaque and transports it back to the liver to be metabolized. If the plaque within an artery were to build to the point it begins to restrict the flow of blood to the heart, a heart attack may ensue.

Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) – This is the “bad” cholesterol your doctor will warn you about because it deposits cholesterol into the inflamed plaque of the artery wall.

Very Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL) – This lipoprotein is created by your liver to be released into the bloodstream and is considered “bad” for your health. It mainly carries triglycerides (another type of fat) to your tissues, and if we have this in high volumes, it can put us at risk for a stroke.

To calculate your cholesterol levels, your doctor will evaluate the sum of all three of these lipoproteins and your triglycerides to generate a lipid profile. Then, total cholesterol is divided by your high-density lipoprotein level, resulting in your cholesterol ratio number, and you want it to be low.

The implication of high cholesterol on your health is an increased risk that the fatty deposits along the walls of your artery or arteries clot, and cause a heart attack or stroke. While you may be able to survive a heart attack or stroke, it can be fatal. Thankfully, you can begin to restore the health of your arteries by incorporating heart-healthy foods into your diet, regularly exercising, drinking alcohol in moderation, losing weight, and quit smoking if you are someone who does smoke. 

If you would like more information on cholesterol, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to schedule an appointment today. 

Dr. Gordon Gunn proudly serves Fullerton and all surrounding areas.

Daily Habits to Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure | Fullerton, CA

One of the most common diseases afflicting Americans is hypertension or high blood pressure. While many enlist the help of medication to lower their blood pressure, that is not the only way to mitigate the associated risks. If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or are at risk due to your lifestyle or habits, it’s important to understand easy changes that may dramatically improve your disposition.

Diet. The foods we eat and beverages we regularly consume are correlated to our blood pressure. Foods saturated in fat and cholesterol increase blood pressure, but fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy can help lower it.

Mind your weight. As your weight fluctuates, so can your blood pressure. An increase or decrease of 10 pounds may not seem like a lot, but it can make a big difference in your blood pressure.

Reduce Stress. When we become stressed, our cortisol increases and our blood pressure rises. To maintain or reduce your blood pressure, analyze the stressors in your life and find activities that help you overcome those stressors.

Watch your sodium intake. Even seemingly harmless amounts of sodium intake can adversely affect your blood pressure. If you are at risk or have recently been diagnosed with hypertension; begin reading food labels, reduce the amount of processed foods in your diet, and don’t oversaturate your meals with salt.

Exercise. Your blood pressure fluctuates, but cardio-driven activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, and dancing are all great activities to help reduce blood pressure.

If you would like more information on blood pressure, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to schedule an appointment today. Dr. Gordon Gunn proudly serves Fullerton and all surrounding areas.

Depression | Fullerton, CA

Depression is a common illness that can affect anyone, especially during this time of year. About one in twenty Americans (more than 11 million people) suffers from depression every year, and it occurs twice as often in women as in men. Depression is a medical disorder that can be treated.

Depression is a medical disorder, like heart disease and thyroid disease. It is more than feeling sad for a short time or feeling grief after a loss. These feelings are difficult to cope with, but they usually get better with time. Depression disrupts your daily life, and affects your thoughts, feelings, behavior and physical health. It is not a weakness, or a fault and it is not something you can ‘just get over’. Depression has been associated with many causes:

  • Chemical imbalances in the brain
  • Family history of depression
  • Other illnesses
  • Use of drugs or alcohol
  • Extreme stress or grief
  • Depression caused by a specific situation, sometimes triggers true depression

Symptoms of Depression

The period of time when you experience symptoms of depression is called an episode. An episode lasts at least two weeks with several symptoms occurring every day.

  • Lack of interest in things that you normally enjoy
  • Feeling sad, blue, or “down in the dumps”
  • Feeling sluggish or restless, and not able to sleep
  • Feeling worthless or guilty
  • Experience a change in appetite with either weight gain or weight loss
  • Thoughts of death or suicide, or attempt to commit suicide
  • Problems concentrating, thinking, remembering or making decisions
  • Sleeping too much or not able to fall asleep, or stay asleep through the night
  • Lack of energy and feeling tired all of the time

Depression may vary in severity from mild to severe. If you have mild depression, you will only have a few symptoms. It takes an extra effort to do the things you have to do, but you can usually accomplish those tasks. Moderate depression means you have many symptoms, and you may not be able to do things you need to do. If you have severe depression, you have nearly all the symptoms of depression. This type of depression almost always keeps you from performing your daily tasks.

Diagnosing Depression

A doctor diagnoses depression after assessing both your physical and mental condition. In looking for the cause of your depression, the provider will ask questions about other medical problems, use of certain medications, and the use of drugs or alcohol. Blood chemistries, including a thyroid work-up should be current, and if not, will be ordered. If your doctor determines that a medical problem may be causing your depression, treating that problem may correct your depression.

Treatment of Depression

Treatment may include antidepressant medication, psychotherapy or both. Antidepressant medications are helpful and are used to treat mild, moderate and severe depression. Antidepressants relieve symptoms in more than half of the people who take them. They work by changing the balance of chemicals in the brain. Most people who take them start to feel better after a few weeks. There are several types of antidepressant medication. All antidepressant medications can have some side effects. About half the people who take them will experience some side effects early in their treatments, usually within the first 2 weeks. Side effects usually subside after 2 to 4 weeks.

Common Side Effects

Dry mouth

Nausea

Dizziness

Constipation

Skin rash

Feeling sleepy or having trouble sleeping

Gaining or losing weight

Feeling restless

Decreased sex drive (libido)

Serious Side Effects (uncommon):

Trouble urinating

Heart problem

Seizures

Fainting

Finding the Right Antidepressant Medications

When an anti-depressant medication is recommended to relieve the symptoms of depression, your doctor will prescribe one from the following categories:

A. SSRI’s (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

First introduced in the 1980’s, the overall side effects of SSRI drugs tend to be less severe than the older antidepressants known as tricyclic (TCA) antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI’s). SSRI’s helped restore the brain’s chemical balance by increasing the available supply of the chemical messenger called serotonin (a neurotransmitter). SSRI’s appear to relieve depression by increasing serotonin levels without affecting the other chemicals in the brain and have fewer side effects than those of the MAOI’s and TCA’s. Available SSRI’s include: Celexa, Lexapro, Paxil and Paxil CR, Prozac and Zoloft.

B. SNRI’s (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)

Similar to the SSRI class of anti-depressants as discussed above, SNRI’s also blocks the reuptake of another neurotransmitter, norepinephrine, in addition to serotonin.

Available SNRI’s include:

  • Remeron – good choice with weight loss, poor appetite or hypertension
  • Serzone – similar to Remeron; good choice with insomnia or anxiety
  • Effexor & Effexor XR – beneficial in anxiety and panic disorders
  • Pristiq – works within 2 weeks; no weight gain; minimal sexual dysfunction.

C. Other Available Antidepressants

  • Wellbutrin (Buproprion) – Blocks reuptake of dopamine. Cannot mix with alcohol, increases seizures; can cause weight loss.

For more information about depression contact the following organizations:

National Institute of Mental Health

6001 Executive Blvd., Room 8184 MSC 9663

Bethesda, MD 20892-9663

1-800-421-4211

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/depression.cfm

National Mental Health Association

1021 Prince Street

Alexandria, VA 22314-2971

1-800-969-NMHA (6602)

http://www.nmha.org

National Alliance of the Mentally Ill

Colonial Place 3

2107 Wilson Blvd., Suite 3000

Arlington, VA 22201-3042

1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

http://www.nami.org

If you would like more information about depression, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to schedule an appointment today. 

Dr. Gunn proudly serves Fullerton and all surrounding areas.

What Breast Cancer Symptoms to Watch for | Fullerton, CA

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among American women, affecting around 268,600 women and men each year. Breast cancer does not discriminate; it affects people of all ages and races. One of the first steps we can take towards effectively identifying and treating breast cancer is by taking preventive action and being aware of the symptoms that come along with this terrible disease. The following list includes breast cancer symptoms that we should all be aware of:

The way the breast or nipple feels

  • Nipple tenderness, lump or thickening in or near your breast or underarm area
  • Change in the texture of your skin or enlargement of the pores of your breasts
  • A lump in your breast (even if it’s small make sure to see professional for a screening)

Breast or nipple appearance

  • Any unexplained change in size or shape of your breast
  • Dimpling anywhere on your breast
  • Unexplained swelling of your breast
  • Unexplained shrinkage of your breast
  • Recent unexplained asymmetry of your breast. It’s common for women to have one breast larger than the other.
  • Your nipple is slightly inward or inverted
  • Skin of your breast, areola, or nipple that becomes red, scaly or swollen or resembles the skin of an orange

Nipple discharge

Particularly if you have clear discharge or bloody discharge

Most times these symptoms are not due to cancer, but if you have any breast cancer symptoms you should be seen by your doctor immediately to be sure you’re healthy and cancer free. Your doctor is the expert and will always be able to check for breast cancer before you have any noticeable symptoms.

If you would like more information about breast cancer symptoms, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to schedule an appointment today. 

Dr. Gunn proudly serves Fullerton and all surrounding areas.

Eat Your Way to a Healthy Heart | Fullerton, CA

Heart disease kills on average 2,200 thousand Americans a day and one of the key risks for developing heart disease is clogged arteries. Clogging of the arteries doesn’t happen overnight, but there are foods that can help unclog your arteries of plaque buildup:

Garlic. According to studies, garlic powder can reduce the buildup of nanoplaque.

Chia seeds. This superfood can help keep arteries clear by regulating blood pressure, lowering triglycerides and reducing LDL cholesterol.

Coconut oil. Despite popular belief that all saturated fats are bad, a regular consumption of coconut oil can help reduce plaque buildup in the arteries.

Broccoli. This vegetable is loaded with vitamin K which can help prevent the hardening and calcification of arteries and prevent oxidation of LDL cholesterol which can lead to serious heart problems.

Avocado. Studies have shown that avocado can lead to improved blood cholesterol, while lowering LDL and triglycerides and increasing the HDL, the good cholesterol that help keep arteries clear.

Asparagus. Full of fiber and minerals, asparagus is one of the best veggies for clearing arteries and lowering cholesterol prevent blood clots that could potentially cause serious illness.

Green tea. Green tea contains high levels of catechins, which is an antioxidant plant phenol that hinders the absorption of bad cholesterol during digestion and helps reduce blocked arteries and improve blood-lipid levels.

Cold-water fish. Eating fish rich in healthy fats twice a week can help clear arteries, reduce inflammation and plaque buildup.

Turmeric. Turmeric’s main component is curcumin which a powerful anti-inflammatory, so it can help reduce inflammation and damage to your arterial walls, the leading cause to plaque buildup and blood clots.

Cranberries. Full of antioxidants, cranberries can help improve cardiovascular health by reducing LDL cholesterol and raising HDL cholesterol levels.

If you would like more information about heart-healthy foods, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to schedule an appointment today. 

Dr. Gunn proudly serves Fullerton and all surrounding areas.