Category: Doc Talk

Most people will see their primary care provider (PCP) or head to an urgent care clinic when they’re sick with the flu or another physical health condition. However, the stigma around mental health often keeps people from getting the medical attention they need. Centuries ago, mental health issues were often misrepresented as a religious punishment or seen as a sign of demonic possession. Those unfair beliefs, known as a stigma, linger today, even though we now know that mental health conditions are simply illnesses affecting the brain. Stigma can affect people in many ways. Perhaps most notably, stigma fuels negative attitudes and discrimination. Thus, mental health stigma can keep people from receiving the diagnosis and treatment they need. Understanding Mental …

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At your latest checkup, routine blood work showed that your blood sugar levels, or blood glucose levels, were high, and your primary care provider diagnosed you with Type 2 diabetes. What now? Making a few simple changes to your daily routine can make a big difference when it comes to managing diabetes. Your healthcare team at Carson Tahoe Health can provide you with diabetes care and the support system you need to navigate the specifics of your diagnosis. Staying as informed as possible is your best strategy for managing your diabetes successfully. Making Sense of Diabetes Diabetes is a chronic health condition that occurs when your blood sugar levels are too high. When the body is functioning optimally, the pancreas …

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Diabetes and heart disease may seem like two completely unrelated conditions. One affects the endocrine system, and the other the cardiovascular system. However, if you are living with diabetes, you are more likely to also develop other conditions, like heart disease. When you have diabetes, taking steps to lower your blood sugar level and manage your diabetes is important. An elevated blood sugar level can damage your body, causing problems for your eyes, nerves, and heart. How Diabetes and Heart Disease Are Connected There are multiple links between diabetes and heart disease. For one, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease share many common risk factors, including an inactive lifestyle, excess weight, and an unhealthy diet. Having diabetes is also a …

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The holiday season is here, and you may be daydreaming of a sweet treat or two. Is that delight even possible for someone managing diabetes? The answer is yes! Desserts for diabetes can make those sweet dreams come true. It’s a common misconception that people with diabetes must steer clear of sweets entirely. While it’s important to keep a close eye on what you eat and to limit the amount of added sugar in your diet, you can still eat sweet dessert with a bit of planning. Diabetes-Friendly Holiday Goodies The holiday season can be filled with diet pitfalls for anyone and everyone, as many traditional recipes are often packed with sugar, salt, and fat. You may have seen tips …

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While mild forgetfulness is often a normal part of aging, significant memory loss is a sign of another health condition. If you’ve noticed changes with your ability to remember things and are wondering what to do about memory problems, asking your doctor these eight questions can start the conversation to get you the support you need. 1. Is My Memory Loss a Normal Part of Aging? It’s normal to occasionally forget where you put your glasses or sometimes have trouble remembering a word. However, experiencing big changes in memory, problem-solving, or thinking is not normal. Symptoms of significant cognitive changes and memory loss include: Talk with your doctor about the symptoms you’re noticing. They can help determine how serious your …

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