San Diego Health
Get health advice and learn about advances in medicine at Scripps Health through the San Diego Health Podcast. Hosted by Susan Taylor, the bi-weekly program features physicians and other health providers who cover a wide range of topics to help you get well and stay healthy. Learn more: scripps.org/podcast
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Common Childhood Illnesses with Dr. Henna Park
03/29/2024
Common Childhood Illnesses with Dr. Henna Park
Coughs, colds, respiratory infections and other symptoms are concerning, but educating yourself about common infant illnesses and being prepared to care for your baby can make the experience less stressful for both of you. San Diego Health host Susan Taylor talks with Scripps pediatrician Henna Park, DO, about the most common health problems among babies and what to do if your little one isn’t feeling well.
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You're Pregnant, Now What? with Dr. Dina Fainman
03/26/2024
You're Pregnant, Now What? with Dr. Dina Fainman
So, you just found out you’re pregnant. Now what? The first couple weeks after making the big discovery can be exciting, but also overwhelming. There’s much to do to prepare for the birth of a baby, but your OB-GYN will be by your side to guide you throughout your pregnancy. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic OB-GYN Dina Fainman, MD, discuss the stages of pregnancy and steps moms-to-be can take to help ensure their pregnancy is healthy. Dr. Fainman also outlines what to avoid during pregnancy and red flags women should be on the lookout for before and after giving birth.
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How to Diagnose and Treat Lymphedema with Dr. Manish Champaneria
03/06/2024
How to Diagnose and Treat Lymphedema with Dr. Manish Champaneria
The lymphatic system has an important job: it helps the body fight off infection. But when the body’s lymph system is damaged or blocked, fluids can build up in the body’s soft tissues and cause swelling, typically in the extremities. The condition is called lymphedema. There’s no cure for lymphedema, but it can be managed with help from your health care team. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guests Manish Champaneria, MD, a Scripps Clinic plastic surgeon who specializes in lymphedema surgery, and certified lymphedema therapist Maryam Rahnema discuss what causes lymphedema, how it’s diagnosed, and treatment options. The experts also discuss what can happen if lymphedema is left untreated and why early intervention is optimal.
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Weight Loss Drugs: Are They Right for You? with Dr. Samantha Harris
02/26/2024
Weight Loss Drugs: Are They Right for You? with Dr. Samantha Harris
More than 40 percent of adults in America are considered obese, which comes with an increased risk for conditions like heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. It’s no surprise that the popularity of weight loss drugs that curb cravings and slow digestion is soaring, but are they for you? In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic endocrinologist Samantha Harris, MD, who specializes in weight management and diabetes care, discuss how weight loss drugs work, who is an ideal candidate, and potential side effects. Dr. Harris also explains why the new class of weight loss drugs may require a much longer commitment than you may think.
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How to Know When You Need Back Surgery with Dr. Robert Eastlack
02/14/2024
How to Know When You Need Back Surgery with Dr. Robert Eastlack
Chronic back pain can make everyday activities difficult. Exercise, putting away groceries, or simply twisting or turning can cause muscle and spinal pain. Back pain affects eight out of 10 people at some point in their lives, and for many, it goes away on its own. But for those with lasting or recurring back problems, minimally invasive surgery may be the solution that stops their pain for good. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic orthopedic surgeon Robert Eastlack, MD, discuss common causes of back pain and how minimally invasive back surgery works to bring patients relief, often with less downtime than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Eastlack also shares tips to protect your back.
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Heart Issues During Pregnancy with Dr. Poulina Uddin and Dr. Sean Daneshmand,
01/30/2024
Heart Issues During Pregnancy with Dr. Poulina Uddin and Dr. Sean Daneshmand,
Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also be tough on your heart. Your heart is working overtime to support you and your baby, and it’s surprisingly common for women to develop some type of heart problem during pregnancy or exacerbate an existing condition, such as hypertension or high blood pressure. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor interviews Scripps Clinic cardiologist Poulina Uddin, MD, and Sean Daneshmand, MD, a Scripps Clinic OB-GYN and medical director of the Scripps perinatology program. They discuss how being pregnant can affect the heart, common heart problems that can develop in pregnancy, and how those conditions may affect the baby. They also explain how doctors can treat heart conditions while protecting the pregnancy.
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Signs of Thyroid Eye Disease with Dr. Ozgur
01/04/2024
Signs of Thyroid Eye Disease with Dr. Ozgur
Red, itchy, watery eyes are a common occurence, but may also be a sign of a serious health concern. Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune condition in which the body mistakenly attacks the tissue around the both the thyroid gland and the eyes. It most commonly presents in people in their 40s, but can affect almost any age group, though there are factors that can raise a person’s risk. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest Omar Ozgur, MD, an ophthalmologist and oculoplastic surgeon, discuss the causes of thyroid eye disease, how its diagnosed, and treatment options. Dr. Ozgur also outlines the lifestyle changes that can help thyroid eye disease patients get relief.
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The Risks of Pregnancy After 35 with Dr. Daniela Gomez and Alex Fite
12/18/2023
The Risks of Pregnancy After 35 with Dr. Daniela Gomez and Alex Fite
More and more women are waiting until their mid- to late 30s to have children. Advanced maternal age pregnancies come with higher risks, but health care providers are prepared. Scripps has expert perinatologists and support staff who specialize in high-risk pregnancy care. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor interviews Daniela Gomez, MD, a Scripps Clinic obstetrician and gynecologist (OB-GYN) specializing in maternal and fetal medicine, and Alex Fite, a prenatal genetic counselor at Scripps Clinic. They discuss the factors that may make it harder to conceive as a woman gets older, conditions that occur more often in babies born to moms over 35, and what health care providers can do to help ensure babies are born healthy.
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Signs and Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer with Dr. Jonathan Fisher
11/20/2023
Signs and Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer with Dr. Jonathan Fisher
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer, and its symptoms in its early stages can be easy to miss. According to the American Cancer Society, roughly 60,000 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer—and 50,000 people die from it—each year. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Jonathan Fisher, MD, a surgeon at Scripps Green Hospital, discuss the types of pancreatic cancer, how pancreatic cancer is diagnosed, and treatment options. Dr. Fisher also shares some of the biggest risk factors for pancreatic cancer and how local biotech companies are helping screen people for the disease.
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Do I Need a Lung Cancer Screening? with Dr. Samir Makani
10/25/2023
Do I Need a Lung Cancer Screening? with Dr. Samir Makani
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but early diagnosis can lead to a better outcome. Fortunately, technological advances are making it possible for doctors to spot lung cancer earlier than ever. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor interviews Samir Makani, MD, director of interventional pulmonary medicine at Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas and director of Scripps’ lung cancer screening program. They discuss the causes of lung cancer, who’s most at risk, and the symptoms. Dr. Makani also outlines the link between early intervention and a dramatic jump in survival rates, the technology making it possible to diagnose lung cancer in its earliest stages, and how the lung cancer is treated.
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What Is a Mini Facelift? How Does It Work? with Dr. Salvatore Pacella
10/09/2023
What Is a Mini Facelift? How Does It Work? with Dr. Salvatore Pacella
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 Salvatore Pacella, MD, Division Head of plastic and reconstructive surgery at Scripps Clinic & Scripps Green Hospital, discuss how a mini facelift is performed, how it differs from a traditional facelift, and who’s a candidate. Dr. Pacella also covers the risks and recovery time.
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How to Choose a Primary Care Doctor with Dr. Kosha Nathwani
10/09/2023
How to Choose a Primary Care Doctor with Dr. Kosha Nathwani
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 do you find the right primary care doctor for you? In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest Kosha Nathwani, MD, a Scripps Clinic family medicine physician, discuss the role of a primary care doctor and the different types, what you should take into consideration when choosing a doctor, and the questions you should ask a potential pick. Dr. Nathwani also runs through the pros and cons of having the same doctor as your spouse or family.
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How to Diagnose and Treat Breast Cancer with Dr. Farah Nasraty
10/03/2023
How to Diagnose and Treat Breast Cancer with Dr. Farah Nasraty
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 triumph over the disease. In this episode of San Diego Health, our host Susan Taylor and guest Farah Nasraty, MD, focus on demystifying breast cancer and shedding light on the most recent advances in treatment.
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Acne Causes and Treatment with Dr. Sophia Akhiyat
09/14/2023
Acne Causes and Treatment with Dr. Sophia Akhiyat
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 of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest Sophia Akhiyat, MD, a Scripps Clinic dermatologist, discuss the different types of acne and their causes. Dr. Akhiyat also outlines different acne treatment options, ranging from over-the-counter topical creams to prescription medication to dermatologist-provided chemical peels and laser therapy.
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How Cosmetic Laser Treatment Works with Dr. Victor Ross
08/18/2023
How Cosmetic Laser Treatment Works with Dr. Victor Ross
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 traditional facelift, and who’s a candidate. Dr. Ross also covers the risks and recovery time.
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Helping Kids Cope with Gun Violence with Dr. Walter Biffl
07/31/2023
Helping Kids Cope with Gun Violence with Dr. Walter Biffl
Guns 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 Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, discuss ways to protect your kids from gun violence. Dr. Biffl outlines how to properly store guns and why it should be a part of the childproofing conversation, how parents can talk to their kids about gun safety, and how to address the issue with friends and family members before trusting them to care for your child.
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The Fentanyl Crisis: How to Protect Yourself and Your Family with Dr. Roneet Lev
07/19/2023
The Fentanyl Crisis: How to Protect Yourself and Your Family with Dr. Roneet Lev
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 in 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 Susan Taylor and Roneet Lev, MD, an emergency medicine physician and the director of the emergency department at Scripps Mercy Hospital, talk about ways to protect your loved ones from a potentially deadly fentanyl overdose. Dr. Lev also explains how illicit fentanyl could be masquerading as other medications, which could land users in the hospital—or worse.
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Medication and Surgery For Weight Loss with Dr. Jennie Luna and Dr. Mark Takata
07/05/2023
Medication and Surgery For Weight Loss with Dr. Jennie Luna and Dr. Mark Takata
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 medication 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 Clinic endocrinologist Jennie Luna, MD, and Scripps Clinic bariatric surgeon Mark Takata, MD, discuss the genetic and societal causes of obesity, why diet and exercise just aren’t enough for some people, and how weight loss medication and bariatric surgery work to help people lose weight when other methods are ineffective. Dr. Luna and Dr. Takata also outline the health risks that come with obesity.
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Revitalize Your Skin with Cosmetic Dermatology with Dr. Rawaa Almukhtar
06/21/2023
Revitalize Your Skin with Cosmetic Dermatology with Dr. Rawaa Almukhtar
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 surgery. 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 Taylor and Scripps Clinic dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Rawaa Almukhtar, MD, discuss what causes your skin to age in the first place, how to soften and fill in fine lines, the types of cosmetic injectables on the market, and the latest trends in cosmetic dermatology. Dr. Almukhtar also explains how visiting a board-certified dermatologist for your cosmetic treatments can help you avoid a frozen, overdone look.
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How to Prepare for the Birth of Your Baby As a Dad with Dr. Brian Scull
06/09/2023
How to Prepare for the Birth of Your Baby As a Dad with Dr. Brian Scull
In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps pediatrician 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 concerns, and more. He also stresses the importance of being flexible, since babies aren’t exactly known for sticking to their parents’ well-intentioned plans. There’s a ton of information available for moms-to-be on how to prepare for the arrival of a new baby. But what should soon-to-be dads be doing? There are lots of unknowns and new experiences in store for new parents, but there are also steps you can take to be as ready as possible for the arrival of your bundle of joy.
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How to Have a Baby if You’re LGBTQ+ with Dr. DeAnna Young
06/01/2023
How to Have a Baby if You’re LGBTQ+ with Dr. DeAnna Young
Becoming a parent is a goal that many of us share, including members 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. Young covers artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization, surrogacy, adoption, and fostering. She also introduces the possibility of twins created using sperm or an egg from each parent.
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Can Food Be Medicine? with Dr. Mitch Biermann
05/01/2023
Can Food Be Medicine? with Dr. Mitch Biermann
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 internist Mitch Biermann, MD, discuss how food can be used as medicine, the top healing foods, and how to structure your daily diet for the most bang for your caloric buck. Dr. Biermann also shares the top five foods that should be on everybody’s grocery list.
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What's the Difference? Food Allergy vs Food Sensitivity with Dr. Hannah Wangberg
04/17/2023
What's the Difference? Food Allergy vs Food Sensitivity with Dr. Hannah Wangberg
In this video, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor talks with Scripps allergist and immunologist Hannah Wangberg, MD, about food allergies and intolerances. Choosing 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 and anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
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Obesity in Children with Dr. Ann MacQuarrie
04/10/2023
Obesity in Children with Dr. Ann MacQuarrie
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 Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic pediatrician Ann MacQuarrie, MD, discuss the possible causes of the childhood obesity epidemic in America, factors that increase a child’s likelihood of developing obesity, and what parents can do to help keep their child healthy. Dr. MacQuarrie also outlines what kids and teens can do to create healthy habits and take charge of their health.
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What Is Autism? Understanding the Signs with Dr. Megan Craig
03/29/2023
What Is Autism? Understanding the Signs with Dr. Megan Craig
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 interactions, communication, and behavior. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic pediatrician Megan Craig, MD, discuss autism spectrum disorder in children, how it’s diagnosed, and treatment options. Dr. Craig also and debunks some common misconceptions about autism and outlines the importance of early intervention.
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What is COPD? with Dr. Samir Makani
03/13/2023
What is COPD? with Dr. Samir Makani
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 Makani, MD, director of interventional pulmonology at bronchoscopy at Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas, discuss what causes COPD, who’s at risk, and treatment options. Dr. Makani also explains how COPD differs from other common lung conditions like asthma and emphysema.
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Improve Your Health by Changing Your Lifestyle with Dr. Kosha Nathwani
02/27/2023
Improve Your Health by Changing Your Lifestyle with Dr. Kosha Nathwani
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 Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest Kosha Nathwani, MD, a Scripps Clinic family medicine doctor, discuss how physicians use lifestyle medicine to improve patients’ health and quality of life, and how meaningful and long-lasting changes can treat, reverse, and even prevent lifestyle-related diseases. Dr. Nathwani also outlines the roles of specialists and support personnel like dietitians, physical therapists, social workers, and mental health professionals, in a comprehensive lifestyle medicine team.
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Free Annual Wellness Check With Medicare with Kaitlyn Bertrand, PA
02/15/2023
Free Annual Wellness Check With Medicare with Kaitlyn Bertrand, PA
Individuals with Medicare part B or a Medicare Advantage plan are eligible for free annual Medicare Wellness visits. 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 San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest Kaitlyn Bertrand, a physician assistant with Scripps’ Annual Health Assessment Clinic, discuss Medicare Wellness visits and how they differ from annual physical exams, who’s eligible, how to prepare, and how to schedule one. Bertrand also covers what happens during the visit and how providers screen for conditions like depression.
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Identifying and Treating Gallstones With Dr. Samir Makani
02/06/2023
Identifying and Treating Gallstones With Dr. Samir Makani
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, host Susan Taylor and Scripps surgeon Dan Giurgiu, MD, discuss conditions that can affect the gallbladder, their symptoms, and treatment options. Dr. Giurgiu also outlines how certain foods can trigger a gallbladder condition to flare up and when you should seek medical attention.
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ADHD Symptoms and Treatments with Dr. Nicholas Levy
01/16/2023
ADHD Symptoms and Treatments with Dr. Nicholas Levy
Does your child is having difficulties focusing, paying attention, or controlling impulses? Or perhaps they tend to fidget, interrupt 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 health, academic performance, and more. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest, Scripps pediatrician Nicholas Levy, MD, discuss the signs of ADHD, its symptoms, the diagnosis process, and treatment options. Dr. Levy also explains why ADHD isn’t always necessarily a negative.
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