Tag Archives: Fullerton

Stress Just Isn’t Healthy for You | Fullerton, CA

Health, Heart Attack, Heart Condition, Heart Disease, Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program, Heart Health, Stroke, , , , , ,

Now that we have begun another year, it’s time to re-evaluate our current health practices. Not only does this include your diet and fitness routines, but every aspect of your lifestyle. Your overall wellness is a dynamic process that changes with age and circumstance. Understanding your current state of wellness improves your knowledge, helps you set goals and empowers you to make better choices for a healthier life.

We all think stress is a typical part of life we cannot avoid, but stress can greatly affect your wellness. Understanding more about stress and how to limit your stress can help lead you to a path of wellness. Investigating symptoms of stress. Chronic stress is believed to raise the risk of increased blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic back pain, depression and a reduced immune response.

Common symptoms of stress:

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

Effective steps for dealing with stress:

  • Discuss your symptoms and your feelings about them
  • Keep a diary to gain insight into your concerns and emotional patterns
  • 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
  • Avoid destructive behaviors, including overindulgence of alcohol, caffeine or smoking
  • Seek professional help if any of your symptoms persist, interfering with your sense of well-being and/or your personal/work relationships.
  • Medications

If you would like to take the first step towards a stress-free lifestyle, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 to schedule an appointment today. Or visit www.gordongunnmd.com for additional information regarding women’s health. 

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

5 Ways To Naturally Lower Blood Pressure

Womens Health, ,

Heart Healthy

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with high blood pressure, also referred to as hypertension, you may be worried about having to take medication to lower your numbers. While it’s true, medication can lower your blood pressure, there are also other ways you can go about lowering your blood pressure.

Most people can actually bring down their blood pressure naturally without medication -by using at-home remedies. If you can successfully control your blood pressure with a healthy lifestyle, you may be able to avoid medication completely. Here are five lifestyle changes that can naturally lower and control blood pressure:

  1. Maintain a healthy weight. Blood pressure typically increases as weight increases. Being overweight can also cause sleep apnea (disruptive breathing while asleep), which can further raise one’s blood pressure. Losing weight is one of the most effective ways you can lower your blood pressure. Losing just 10 pounds can reduce your blood pressure immensely.
  2. Exercise on a regular basis. Regular physical activity can help you lower your blood pressure. It’s important to be consistent because if you aren’t, your blood pressure can increase again. If you already have slightly high blood pressure, physical activity can help you avoid it turning into full-blown hypertension. The best kind of exercise to lower blood pressure include, walking, jogging, swimming, cycling and dancing.
  3. Eat a healthy diet. Consuming a diet that consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy can help lower your blood pressure. Be sure to avoid foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol, as these foods can increase blood pressure. It can be difficult to change your eating habits, but with determination it’s possible.
  4. Be smart with your salt intake. Even just a small reduction in your sodium intake can reduce blood pressure. The effect of sodium intake varies among different groups of people. To decrease your sodium intake you can read food labels, eat fewer processed foods and not add salt to meals.
  5. Reduce your stress. Chronic stress contributes to high blood pressure, as well as occasional stress, if it leads you to eating unhealthy foods, drinking alcohol or smoking. To reduce your stress levels, you should take some time to think about what is causing your stress in the first place. Once you figure out what is causing your stress, think about how you can eliminate or reduce it.

As you can see there a simple ways you can go about lowering your blood pressure naturally without the use of medication. If you would like additional help lowing your blood pressure, contact Dr. Gordon Gunn MD in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 today. Or visit our website at www.gordongunnmd.com for more information regarding high blood pressure. 

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

National Stress Awareness Month

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Every April since 1992, National Stress Awareness Month has been observed. This national month is held to raise public awareness about both the causes and cures for stress.

Life is full of stress, and I’m sure every one of us has no doubt experienced some type of stressful situation within our lifetime. Whether it be a bad day at work or worry over debt, stress affects us all, and in different ways at that. In fact, if you suffer from long term stress it can lead to many illnesses, ranging from depression to heart disease. Fortunately, by understanding the connection between the mind, stress and health, one can better manage stress and improve their overall health and well-being.

Fight or Flight Response

The sympathetic stress response, commonly known as the fight or flight response, is a physiological reaction that’s essentially “hard wired” into our nervous systems. This reaction is necessary mobilizing quick reflexes when there is immediate danger, such as having to swerve to avoid a car accident.

When your body perceives a threat, stress hormones are rushed into your bloodstream, thus increasing your heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose levels. Other hormones can also suppress functions like digestion and immune system, being one of the many reasons why chronic stress can leave you susceptible to illness.

While danger triggers the stress response, unfortunately, so can things such as conflict at work, money problems, bad memories and anxiety. Although, one bad day won’t compromise your health, weeks and months of stress can weaken your immune system and raise your risk for disease.

Take Action against Stress

If you’re suffering from chronic stress and can’t change the situation causing it, then you may need to change your approach. Keep in mind, you do have the ability to choose your response to stressors, and you may have to try many options.

  • Realize when you don’t have control over something, and let it go.
  • Try not to get anxious about situations you can’t change.
  • Take control of your reactions, and try to focus on what makes you feel calm and in control.
  • Develop goals for healthy living, wellness, personal/professional growth. Be sure to set realistic goals.

Take Time for Yourself

Make time to relax and recharge so you’ll be able to handle the stressors life throws your way. Take some time from your day to take care of yourself, even if it’s only for 10 to 15 minutes. Everyone has their own ideas of what helps them unwind. The following are a few ideas that may help you relax:

  • Take a walk
  • Go for a run or jog
  • Have a hot cup of tea
  • Play a sport of your choosing
  • Spend time with family or friends
  • Meditate
  • Do some yoga

Stress can occur at any moment, and while you can’t completely avoid it, you can learn to minimize and better cope with it by changing the way you choose to respond to it.

To celebrate National Stress Awareness Month, start implementing these healthy habits into your life today. Don’t let stress stand in the way of having a wonderful day, every day.

If you would like more information on how stress can affect your heart health, contact Dr. Gordon Gunn in Fullerton, CA at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com.

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

Stress: Symptoms, Causes and Managing | Fullerton, CA

Womens Health, , , ,

womens wellness-stress

 

 

 

 

 

Wellness is a dynamic process and it changes with age and circumstance. Understanding your current state of wellness improves your knowledge, helps you set goals and empowers you to make better choices for a healthier life.  Stress can greatly affect your wellness. Understanding more about stress and how to limit your stress can help lead you to a path of wellness.

Common Symptoms of Stress:

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

Common Causes of Stress:

  • Health problems
  • Financial concerns
  • Communication issues at work and home
  • Social isolation

It is important to investigate symptoms of stress as prolonged stress poses a potential health threat. Chronic stress is believed to raise the risk of increased blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic back pain, depression and a reduced immune response.

Effective steps for dealing with stress:

  • Discuss your symptoms and your feelings about them
  • Keep a diary to gain insight into your concerns and emotional patterns
  • 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.
  • Avoid destructive behaviors, including overindulgence of alcohol, caffeine or smoking
  • Seek professional help if any of your symptoms persist, interfering with your sense of well-being and/or your personal/work relationships.
  • Medications
    • Recurrent acute anxiety (episodic anxiety): Diazepam (Valium), Lorazepam (Ativan), or Alprazolin (Xanax). These drugs work very rapidly to alleviate symptomatic anxiety and should not be taken for more than two weeks.
    • Depression: When anxiety is part of an underlying depression or a more generalized anxiety disorder the following medications may be considered: Selective serotonin-uptake inhibitors: Fluoxetin (Prozac), or Paroxetine (Paxil) or other antidepressant medication. These drugs can take up to six weeks to achieve their full therapeutic effect.
    • Insomnia: Zaleplon (Sonata), Zolpiden (Ambien) or Temazapan (Restoril), short term use.

    Contact Gordon C. Gunn, M.D. in Fullerton, CA for more information on stress, women’s wellness or for any other gynecological or urology needs. Call 714-912-2211 or visit his website www.gordongunnmd.com.

Stop Fecal Incontinence | Fullerton, CA

Fecal Incontinence, , , , ,

A loving grandparentAre you having trouble controlling your bowel movements? You could have fecal incontinence. Dr. Gordon Gunn of the Gunn Center in Fullerton, CA can help.

Fecal incontinence is the inability to control your bowel movements. Stool can leak unexpectedly from your rectum. Fecal incontinence can range from a random leakage of stool say while passing gas to a complete loss of bowel control.

Fecal incontinence can be caused by many things; constipation, nerve damage or diarrhea. Also, you could have a weakened sphincter due to age or damage of the muscles of the rectum and anus from things such as giving birth. Treatments are available that can improve or even correct fecal incontinence.

Contact Dr. Gordon Gunn today at (714) 912-2211 to schedule an appointment.

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

12-Week Healthy Heart Program – Fullerton, CA

Heart Attack, Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program, Stroke, , , , ,

A loving grandparentThis is a structured, step-by-step program to help you meet your individual goals. As heart disease is the #1 killer of American women, a healthy heart is a priority. Research suggests that approximately 90% of deaths related to heart disease could be prevented.

You will receive an overall assessment of your current health, an outlined diet, exercise and lifestyle program and re-evaluation after the 12-week period is completed.

Make this year the healthiest ever. Call to enroll in The 12-Week Healthy Heart Program and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, happy future.

Contact Dr. Gordon Gunn today at (714) 912-2211 to schedule an appointment.

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

Ultrasound is safe to screen organs for early signs of disease | Fullerton, CA

Ultrasound, , , , , , , , ,

red head in flowersDr. Gordon Gunn in Fullerton, California uses safe, comfortable and accurate ultrasound technology to screen organs for early signs of disease. The thyroid, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, kidneys, uterus and ovaries will be carefully examined using 3D ultrasound. Because tumors can grow without producing symptoms, ultrasound offers a unique opportunity to screen for disease in its earliest stages. Unlike CT body scans, ultrasound provides accurate information without exposing you to radiation.

Contact Dr. Gordon Gunn today at (714) 912-2211 to schedule an appointment.

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

How to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke for women | Fullerton, CA

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Heart Attacks & Strokes in Women : Updated Information That Could Save Your Life

Consider this: 50% of American women die as a result of a heart attack or stroke. Heart attacks and strokes are preventable, according to new medical evidence. Many women underestimate their personal risk level. By visiting Dr. Gordon Gunn in Fullerton, California you will gain an understanding of your risk, increase your awareness for heart disease, and be empowered with healthy solutions.

Be proactive! Prevent disease! Contact Dr. Gordon Gunn today at (714) 912-2211 to schedule an appointment and to learn more about the Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program.

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

Gynecology Services – Female Urology – Healthcare for Women | Fullerton, CA

Gynecology, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

gunnDr. Gordon Gunn specializes in gynecologic issues for women of all ages. His diversity of medical expertise makes us one of the most comprehensive gynecology practices in the area.  Committed to the overall health and well being of his patients, he offers up-to-date preventive care and management of the important issues of gynecologic health, including:

CONSULTATION & TREATMENT

  • Abnormal Pap Smear
  • Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
  • Bio-Identical Hormones
  • Blood Pressure Management
  • Cholesterol Management
  • Breast Disease
  • Endometriosis
  • Family Planning
  • Infertility
  • Menopause
  • Nutrition and Weight Management
  • Office Hysteroscopy
  • PMS/Depression/Anxiety
  • Pediatric/Adolescent Gynecology
  • Pelvic Pain
  • Preconception Counseling
  • Osteoporosis
  • Urinary Incontinence

SURGERY

  • Comprehensive Gynecologic Surgery
  • Private Outpatient Surgery Center
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery
  • Bladder Incontinence Surgery
  • Endometrial Ablation
  • Pelvic Reconstruction

ULTRASOUND BODY SCAN

  • Abdominal
  • Abdominal Aneurysm
  • Breast
  • Carotid/Femoral Artery
  • Kidney/Bladder
  • Pelvic
  • Thyroid

 LABORATORY EVALUATIONS

  • Diabetes Screening
  • Heart & Stroke Risk
  • Menopause & Hormones
  • Metabolic Profile
  • STD Screening
  • Thyroid Disease

 TESTING

  • Bone Density (DEXA)
  • Body Composition Profile
  • Echocardiogram (EKG)
  • Holter Monitoring
  • Echocardiogram

Contact Dr. Gordon Gunn at (714) 912-2211 to schedule an appointment.

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