McLaren Health Care

AFib, or atrial fibrillation, is one of the most common forms of heart disease, and a common indicator that other heart problems may be lurking beneath. “It’s really critical that you not ignore what could be symptoms of AFib, and address the problem right away with your cardiologist,” says Dr. Ajay Krishen, a cardiologist with McLaren Port Huron. As a cardiac electrophysiologist, Dr. Krishen meets and treats patient with AFib every day, a condition that 12.1 million people across the country live with....

We have all heard how a high fat diet, lack of exercise and smoking can contribute to heart disease but are you aware how stress can also increase your risk for heart disease? Humans are equipped with a “fight or flight” response that is hard-wired in our nervous system to keep us safe. When we encounter a potential threat, a tiny part of our brain called the hypothalamus kicks our nervous system into high gear. It sends signals to the adrenal glands on top of the kidneys to release a surge of hormones,...

The leading cause of death in the US? Heart disease. With one person dying of heart disease every 36 seconds, it's also responsible for twice the number of deaths in American women than all types of cancer, including breast cancer. There are several risk factors for heart disease, many within your control. Whether it's high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol, your heart health is in your hands.   Follow these tips for better heart health: Diet – Ditch the fast food! Limit sodium, sat...

It may come as a surprise, but the leading cause of death in women over age 25 isn’t breast cancer. It’s heart disease. In fact, it’s responsible for nearly twice the amount of deaths in American women than all types of cancer, including breast cancer. Though heart disease is a term used to describe many different conditions affecting the heart, the two most common are heart disease (caused by a build-up of plaque in the arteries that can lead to a heart attack) and heart failure (a weakening of the hea...

A large study concludes that a full night’s sleep can contribute to good heart health. Anyone who rises out of bed in the morning and doesn’t walk to the kitchen – still half asleep – to groggily wait for their first strong cup of coffee can attest to the importance and positive effect a solid night’s sleep can have. Now, though, researchers have confirmed the impact and extent it can have on one’s health. Researchers at Tulane University in New Orleans analyzed data collected from more than 400,000 men...

The new year comes with new goals and new plans. As you’re thinking about what you want to accomplish in 2023, remember to include your health. This list of basic screenings can help keep you healthy and active this year, and for years to come. Annual Physical Everyone should plan for a physical exam each year, which includes basic measurements (height, weight), blood pressure and lab tests. Be sure to include a twice-a-year dental cleaning and eye exam if needed. Age 30-64: Every 5 years Colorectal Can...

Making an appointment with your primary care provider for an annual check-up is the foundation of good health. If your annual visit is coming up, be sure to know the numbers that can help you lead a healthy, productive life. Numbers to Know Blood pressure Blood glucose levels (blood sugar) Cholesterol (HDL and LDL) Body Mass Index (BMI) Hemoglobin A1C Other lab results: Vitamin D levels, complete blood count, metabolic panel, etc. Your ideal ranges may depend on factors unique to you – your height, weig...

Winter can be a difficult season for many of us. Cold weather, snowy conditions, shorter days and lack of sunshine send us indoors, isolating us from the outside world. About 10 million Americans experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is a form of depression that usually affects people from mid- to late-fall through the early days of spring. The following 10 simple tips can help you connect with others and help to combat the winter blues: Schedule social time. Schedule lunches, coffee dates...

When interacting with their family doctor, many patients may approach this relationship in a passive role. In this dynamic, the doctor recommends a course of action or treatment, and the patient complies. There are many instances in which this dynamic is required and benefits the patient. But when it comes to overall health, both patients and doctors are moving toward patients taking an active role in their health. In this active role, patients become more engaged in their health. Doctors discuss treatm...

Call it a physical, check-up or annual exam, but a regular appointment with a primary care provider can have endless and potentially untold benefits. It’s understandable that many people only make doctor appointments when they’re sick. They are examined, get a prescription and feel better in a few days. An annual check-up, though, is the appointment when patients can check in with their doctor about their overall health. During an annual exam the doctor will perform several standard — but very important...