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5 Tips to Stay Heart Healthy This Holiday Season | Fullerton, CA

Heart Health,

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The Holiday season is a time of excitement and anticipation for most, but the change in routine and the increased stress levels can also increase your chance for heart attack or stroke. With that being said, it’s extremely important to keep your heart health in mind during the holidays. The following includes five tips to reduce stress and to keep heart healthy during the Holidays this year:

  • Stay Active- Even during the madness of the holidays, it’s important to stay active, keep your heart health in check and avoid excess weight gain. Try to do active chores around the house, taking your children to the park or even exercising for 15 minutes to reduce stress and keep yourself heart healthy.
  • Eat Healthy- Before you dig into all of the delicious holiday’s meals and sweets, keep your heart health in mind. These heavy meals and sweet treats may have extra calories and sodium, so try eating a healthy snack before indulging these meals to fill you up first and give you the nutrients you need.
  • Don’t Over Do It- It can be quite stressful working holiday parties, events and family get-together’s into your normal routine. During these times you may find yourself having to wake earlier or work later, but make sure not to overexert yourself. Try planning your days ahead of time and assessing what you need to get done and what things you can drop from the list to reduce stress.
  • Drink Wisely- Most holiday parties and festivities typically involve alcoholic beverages, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still make healthy choice. Rather than choosing to drink a sugary cocktail, try choosing a red wine or club soda with your choice of liquor instead.
  • Take Time for Yourself- The holidays are meant to be a joyful and reflective time. Make sure you make time to focus on yourself. Do something that makes you happy like meditating, reading a good book, taking a long bath or cooking something you love. Taking time to treat yourself helps minimize stressors and increases positivity.

If you would like to learn more about living a heart healthy lifestyle, contact Dr. Gordon Gunn in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 or visit our website at www.gordongunnmd.com for more information.

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

National Stress Awareness Day | Fullerton, CA

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National Stress Awareness is celebrated each year on November 4. This is a day to identify and reduce the stress factors in your life. Whether you’re are dealing with work, relationship or financial related stress, it affects us all differently, and it’s crucial that you deal with stress in a healthy way. National Stress Awareness aims to promote awareness to aid individuals in changing certain behaviors or lifestyles to live more stress-free, healthy lives. Negative stress takes a toll on your daily life and your health. It can lead to high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, anxiety and depression, among other health problems. Fortunately, there are many ways you can go about relieving your stress naturally. Some of those ways include the following:

  • Meditation- When you meditate, you’re focused on the present. Paying attention to your breathing pattern is one way you can focus. Mindfulness stress reduction is a form of meditation that is helpful with managing stress and learning how to better cope with it.
  • Exercise- Whether it’s running or yoga, exercise is one of the best ways to manage and relieve stress. Exercise also releases endorphins into the brain, which improves your mood. Exercise can also prevent obesity and other health problems.
  • Sleep- Sleep is a very important natural stress reliever. Make sure to find the right balance of sleep that allows you to feel well-rested and alert. To promote better sleep, establish a bedtime routine that signals the brain that it’s time to rest.
  • Organization- When your life is more organized, it offers a sense of control and peace of mind. If you’re feeling edgy in your cluttered house, clean up. Or if you the type of person who is always doing running around, make lists so you don’t forget anything.
  • Enjoy Every Day- Make time for the activities that bring you joy, whether it be reading, playing guitar, or working on your car.

To learn about how stress can affect your health, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn, MD in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com for more information.

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

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month | Fullerton, CA

Breast Cancer, ,

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October is National Breast Cancer awareness month. Breast Cancer is one of the most common cancers among American women, affecting around 230,000 women each year. Raising breast cancer awareness is extremely important as it doesn’t only affect women; but it also affects around 2,300 each year as well. 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:

Change in the way 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)

Change in 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 (its 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 resemble the skin of an orange

Any 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. Even if you haven’t experienced any symptoms, it’s still incredibly important to be seen for regular screenings. Your doctor is always able to check for breast cancer before you have any noticeable symptoms.

To schedule a breast cancer screening, 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 our services. 

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

Do you suffer from Urinary Incontinence? | Fullerton, CA

Urinary Incontinence,

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An estimated 10 Million people -85% which are women- suffer from urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence, also known as bladder incontinence, is the loss of bladder control. In some cases, individuals suffer from a total loss of bladder contents or it may just cause minor leakage. This issue is more than just medical problem; it can affect emotional, psychological and social life as well.

There are many people who think urinary incontinence comes with age, but it is actually a symptom that can be caused by many conditions. The causes of urinary incontinence differs between men and women. Urinary incontinence is separated into three different types, and some may experience a mix of the types or all three. The following includes the three different types of urinary incontinence:

  • Stress Incontinence- This type of incontinence occurs when you apply pressure on your bladder by exercising, laughing, sneezing, coughing or lifting something heavy. The activity causes the sphincter to weaken and release urine.
  • Urge Incontinence- Urge incontinence occurs when you feel the sudden, intense urge or need to urinate. Often times, after feeling the urge to go you won’t have time between the urge and the loss of urine to make it to the restroom.
  • Overflow Incontinence- This type occurs when you experience frequent dribbling or urine, due to the fact that your bladder doesn’t empty completely.

If you think you may be suffering from urinary incontinence, contact Dr. Gordon Gunn in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 to schedule an appointment today or visit our website at www.gordongunnmd.com for more information.

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

10 Foods that Help Unclog Arteries | Heart Healthy Fullerton, CA

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AteryHeart disease is among one of the most deadly killers in the world, killing on average 2,200 thousand Americans a day. These numbers are extremely devastating, and one of the key risks for developing heart disease is clogged arteries. Clogging of the arteries doesn’t happen overnight, and can be caused by diet, genetics and lifestyle choices. However, there are foods that can help unclog your arteries of plaque buildup:

  • Garlic- According to studies, garlic can prevent coronary artery calcification and blood clots, while garlic powder can reduce the buildup of nanoplaque.
  • Chia Seeds- When incorporating chia seeds into your daily diet, 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. Broccoli can also help 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. Asparagus can also help lower 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. It can also help reduces blocked arteries and improve blood-lipid levels.
  • Cold-water Fish- Fish rich in healthy fats such as tuna, salmon, mackerel, and sardines can help clear arteries. Eating fish twice a week can help reduce inflammation and plaque buildup that can lead to heart disease.
  • Turmeric- Turmeric’s main component is curcumin which a powerful anti-inflammatory. By adding turmeric to your diet it can help reduce inflammation and damage to your arterial walls which are 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 to learn more about what you can do to stay heart healthy, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn at 714-912-2211 or visit our website at www.gordongunnmd.com for more information.

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

Improve and Manage Your Heart Health | Heart Health Fullerton, CA

Heart Health,

Young woman sleeping

Did you know that heart disease is the number one cause of death in the US? Heart attacks are commonly caused by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which leads to the blockage of oxygen and blood flow to the heart muscle. It’s extremely important to learn what steps you can take to improve and manage your heart health to live a long healthy life. To help you do so I have provided five ways you can go about improving your heart health:

  1. Stay Active- Staying active doesn’t mean you have to work out for an endless amount of hours. You can do anything physical that keeps your heart rate up for at least 30 minutes. Need Ideas? Try jogging, walking, biking or hiking.
  2. Stop Smoking- Most people know that if you are smoking tobacco products you are more like to develop heart disease. So if you do smoke…drop the habit and quick, for your hearts sake.
  3. Shut Down- When you are sleep that’s when your body is recovering and rebooting. While you sleep you heart rate is lowered which gives your heart a much needed break. Make it a priority to get a proper amount of sleep.
  4. Chill Out- Learning how to relax does wonders for your heart. When you are under pressure your body ramps up adrenaline, which can exhaust your heart. Need ideas on how to handle stress? Try doing yoga, going on a walk, listening to calming music, or even talking to a trust friend or professional.
  5. Healthy Eats- The way to eat heart healthy hasn’t changed in hundreds of years, so the classis choices are still you best. Try incorporating whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds into your diet.

Now is the time to start becoming aware of your heart health. If you have questions or concerns regarding your heart health, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn, MD in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com for more information.

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

7 Ways Stress Affects Women’s Health | Fullerton, CA

Womens Health, ,

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Did you know that stress affects men and women differently? Women are actually more deeply affected by the emotional and physical effects of stress than men are. When the body reacts to stress it releases hormones that cause slowed digestion, blood pressure to rise and the heart starts pumping more blood to the muscles, which in turn increases energy and alertness. This is a very important function for people when dealing with situations that require you to act fast.

The problem with calling upon these hormones to often is, that the hormones will eventually wear down the body if stressors are affecting you frequently. The following list includes both physiological and emotional effects stress has on women’s health:

  • Irregular Periods– Stress can essentially mess with your body’s hormone balance, which in turn can lead to missed, late or irregular periods.
  • Acne Breakouts– Stress causes raised levels of the hormone cortisol in the body that can cause excess oil production that will lead to breakouts. In some people it can also cause itchy rashes or hives.
  • Depression- Your emotional health suffers when stress have in your life. Experts say that women are more likely to experience depression than men.
  • Heart Disease- Stress can cause a negative reaction affecting the whole cardio vascular system. This can lead to high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack.
  • Lowered Immune System- You body’s immune system can be wreaked by stress which lessens your ability to fight off common colds or viruses.
  • Weight Gain or Loss– Stress can make you reach for comfort foods, or make you so upset you can’t eat. The more common stress related issues are cramps, bloating, heartburn, and sometimes even irritable bowel syndrome.
  • Problems Concentrating– When you are stressing out it makes it very difficult to focus and taking care of responsibilities at home or work.

Don’t forget it’s very important to your health that you unwind every once in a while, and not let stress consume you and affect your health. For more information regarding women’s health, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn, MD in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com for more information.

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

Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Tips | Heart Health Fullerton, CA

Heart Attack, Heart Health, Stroke, , ,

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Every year, millions of Americans suffer from a heart attack, and nearly half of those heart attacks are fatal. As for strokes, they are the leading cause of disability and the third leading cause of death in men and women. It’s very important to know what steps you can take to prevent heart attack and stroke from occurring, it’s time to take control and get heart healthy. The following include tips you should take to heart to prevent heart attack and stroke:

  • Don’t Smoke– If you’re already a smoker, you should stop or find programs to help you quit. As you should already know, smoking is very unhealthy. Nicotine actually narrows and restricts blood vessels.
  • Exercise- You should exercise daily, or at least walk two miles a day. You don’t need to walk those two miles all at once, exercise doesn’t just burn calories. Exercise also activates genes that are very beneficial to your health.
  • Reduce Stress- Stress contributes to heart disease, and if it is severe enough it can cause a heart attack or even sudden death. Try to reduce stress by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, volunteering and laughing. Also, try to avoid stressful situations and people that make you anxious or angry.
  • Watch Your Cholesterol- Having high levels of LDL (“Bad”) cholesterol increases your risk of heart disease. Cholesterol levels can be improved with exercise and healthy eating habits.
  • Eat Heart-Healthy- Eating a healthy well balanced diet can reduce your risk of getting heart disease. Make sure to eat your fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Take care of yourself by getting heart healthy today! For more information about heart health, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn, MD in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to learn more.

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

Lifestyle Change after a Heart Attack | Heart Health Fullerton, CA

Heart Attack, Heart Health, ,

 

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After having a heart attack you may feel overwhelmed with anxiety and fear, you may also feel like your world has be flipped upside down. It takes time to fully recover from a heart attack but don’t let that stop you from pushing forward. A lifestyle change is the best way going about recovering, listed below are a few common lifestyle changes you may want to take charge of.

  • Stop Smoking- Smoking cigarettes is one of the primary risk factors in heart disease. One of the most important things you can do is quit smoking cigarettes. In just one year after quitting your risk for heart attack drops severely.
  • Healthy Diet- Eating a well-balanced diet keeps blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, and body weight within healthy rages, which can greatly reduce risk of heart attack.
  • Control Stress and Anger- When stress or anger are uncontrolled it can lead to increased risk of heart disease. Skills Such as yoga, relaxation and time management can lower risks.
  • Body Weight- Achieve and maintain a healthy body weight to lower your risk of heart attack. Being overweight makes the heart pump harder due to having to support the extra weight.
  • Exercise- Physical activity is a key factor in maintaining long-term heart health after suffering from a heart attack. Enrolling in cardiac rehabilitation is a recommended step towards resuming normal physical activity.
  • Medication- Taking medication is considered a lifestyle change because taking your medication at the right times can be vital and takes some time to adjust to a new schedule.

If you fear you may be at risk of having a heart attack and would like more information, contact Dr. Gordon Gunn, MD at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to learn more about heart health.

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