San Diego Health

Your relationship with your primary care doctor is one of the most important you'll develop in your health care journey. Millions of people visit their primary care doctor each year for preventive care, routine screenings, referrals to specialists, and more. Often referred to as the quarterback of the health care team, a primary care doctor plays a pivotal role in coordinating your care. So, how d...

Breast cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer impacting women in the United States, only surpassed by skin cancer. Data from the American Cancer Society reveals that one in eight women will face a breast cancer diagnosis during their lifetime. However, the silver lining lies in the power of early detection and the leaps forward in treatment approaches, which have enabled more women to tr...

Acne is the most common skin condition and affects up to 50 million Americans every year. Though acne is commonly associated with the teenage years, it's a problem that can continue to rear its ugly head well into adulthood. While acne can be troublesome and can take a toll on a person's self-esteem, dermatologists say it's a treatable condition. It just takes time and consistency. In this episode...

Sun, stress, and gravity take a toll on our appearance as we age. But there are ways to reverse the visible signs of aging and get rid of wrinkles and sagging skin. A mini facelift could help turn back the hands of time and restore a more youthful appearance. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Victor Ross, MD, discuss how a mini facelift is performed, how it differs from a...

G uns are the leading cause of death for children in the US. A startling stat: On average, 13 kids die each day due to gun violence. It ' s important to take steps to keep your child as safe as can be in the face of this disheartening epidemic. In this episode of San Diego Health , host Susan Taylor and guest Walter Biffl, MD, medical director of trauma and acute care surgery at Scripp s Memorial...

One pill can kill. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 150 deaths per day are caused by synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl. Fentanyl , which is 50 to 100 stronger than morphine, is fueling the opioid crisis and i n just the past year alone , more than 110,000 people in the US have died from synthetic opioid overdoses. In this episode of San Diego Health , host S...

A startling stat: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 42 percent of  adults and nearly 20 percent of children are obese — that ' s around 115 million people. Weight loss m edication and/or bariatric surgery may be options for some of those whose health is at risk due to their weight and lifestyle. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guests Scripps Cl...

Life can take a toll on the skin in the form of sun damage, acne scars, wrinkles, and sagging — and believe it or not, volume loss can start at just 28 years old . But it ' s possible to look younger without resorting to invasive surg ery. Cosmetic procedures, such as injectables and laser treatments, can freshen up your look with minimal downtime. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan T...

In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps pediatric ian Brian Scull, MD, discuss what dads - to - be (or any partner of someone about to have a baby) can be doing to get ready for their new baby. Dr. Scull covers parenting and childbirth classes, picking a pediatrician, babyproofing, parental leave, common conc erns, and more . He also stresses the importance of being flex...

Becoming a parent is a goal that many of us share, including m embers of the LGBTQ+ community . Fortunately, thanks to advances in medical science, LGBTQ+ people have more options than ever to make their dreams of starting a family come true. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps OB - GYN DeAnna Young, MD, discuss various ways to have a baby if you ' re LGBTQ+. Dr. You...

It turns out there ' s some truth to the adage " You are what you eat. " Replacing the foods we eat with healthier alternatives and removing processed foods can help detoxify the body and improve health. And perhaps the best part is, making healthier choices doesn ' t have to be hard or time - consuming. In this episode of San Diego Health , host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic intern ist Mitch Bi...

In this video, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor talks with Scripps allergist and immunologist Hannah Wangberg, MD, about food allergies and intolerances. C hoosing to not eat peanuts or shellfish is a matter of personal taste for some people , but for those with food allergies, it's a much more serious decision. Reactions to food allergies can range from hives and itching to difficulty breathing...

Childhood obesity is a serious problem in the US. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 14.7 million kids and teens — roughly 20 percent — are obese, which can put their health at risk if left untreated . Childhood obesity has been linked to numerous health conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea , and joint and back problems. In this episode of San...

Autism spectrum disorder affects 1 in 59 children in the US. Symptoms of the neurodevelopmental disorder develop in very early childhood and can include limited eye contact, not smiling, not responding to their name, and difficulty speaking. ASD is a lifelong condition and can also trigger issues with social interac tions, communication, and behavior. In this episode of San Diego Health , host Sus...

A chronic cough, persistent shortness of breath, and difficulty exhaling are all signs of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The chronic lung condition, which can be triggered by smoking , infection, or even asthma, is relatively common and occurs in 20 to 30 percent of people who have an underlying lung disease. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest Samir Mak...

For minor health problems like muscle aches or slightly elevated blood pressure, lifestyle changes may be more beneficial than medication. Lifestyle changes , which can include adopting a healthier diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress, may also have the power to prevent chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, before they start. In this episode of San D...

Individuals with Medicare part B or a Medicare Advantage plan are eligible for free annual Medicare Wellness visit s . Scripps partners with patients ' primary care doctors to perform these annual healthy aging wellness assessments. Doctors develop or update the patient's personal care plan based on their current health and risk factors to help prevent diseases or disabilities. In this episode of...

The gallbladder is part of the digestive system and when working properly, helps break down fats in the body. However, the gallbladder can become inflamed and develop gallstones, both of which can hinder its functionality. Surgery can treat many gallbladder conditions and recent advances in technology can mean less invasive procedures and quicker recovery times. In this episode of San Diego Health...

Does your child is having difficulties focusing , paying attention, or controlling impulses ? Or perhaps they tend to fidget, inter rupt conversations, or grab things from other people. These are all signs that they may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD ) . The neurodevelopmental disorder affects 3 to 5 percent of children and if left untreated, can impact self - esteem , mental...

Knee injuries are exceedingly common — even in younger people who stay active. This includes ligament sprains, meniscus tears, and patellofemoral instability. Injuries can happen both through trauma or wear and tear over time. Though an injury can sideline a young, active person, physicians and orthopedic surgeons have many treatment options. In this episode of San Diego Health , host Susan Taylor...

For many people, getting rid of belly fat can be harder than it seems. Those last few pounds tend to hang around despite a healthy diet and exercise. Those with stubborn belly fat do have options though. Physicians can guide patients to beat belly fat for good via lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic endocrinologist an...

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1.1 million people in the US are living with HIV and about 36,000 more are diagnosed every year. HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system. If not treated, it can lead to AIDS, which puts the body at higher risk for life-threatening infections and cancer. HIV stays in the body for life, and while there is no cure, it...

Managing diabetes isn't easy. For many of the 37.3 million Americans living with the condition, that means following a restrictive diet, exercising regularly, monitoring blood sugar, and taking medication. Some also face mental health challenges related to diabetes. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor interviews Karla Espinosa De Los Monteros, PhD, a clinical health psychologist...

Local health officials have issued a warning that three viruses will likely impact San Diego County this winter. They're calling the impending influx of influenza, COVID, and respiratory syncytial virus(RSV) a "tripledemic" and are asking residents to protect themselves and their families with vaccines and other preventive measures. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest...

Epilepsy is a neurological condition marked by recurring seizures. Aside from bouts of uncontrollable jerking movements, its symptoms can include temporary confusion, inability to respond to sound or visual stimuli, and unusual emotional or physical sensations. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest Scripps Clinic neurologist Michelle Van Noord, MD, discuss epilepsy, how...