San Diego Health

High Blood Pressure and Chronic Kidney Disease Andrew King, MD, Nephrology High blood pressure can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of chronic kidney disease. In this video, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor talks with Andrew King, MD, head of the division of nephrology at Scripps Clinic, about protecting kidney health through regular checkups, a healthy diet, exercise and medications when needed. Dr. King also explains why people with obesity, type 2 diabetes or uncontrolled blood pressure may need more frequent monitoring. 

How to Recognize Autism: Early Signs and Treatment Trevor Hall, DO Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), commonly called autism, affects how people communicate, interact and experience the world. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor speaks with Trevor Hall, MD, a pediatrician at Scripps Coastal Medical Center Encinitas, about the early signs of autism, how it's diagnosed and treated and why early intervention can make a lasting difference. Dr. Hall also discusses common misconceptions, available therapies and practical guidance for parents and caregivers.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) affects millions — often without symptoms. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor speaks with Scripps Clinic nephrologist Kimberly Harper, MD, about what PKD is, how it develops and why early detection matters. They cover genetic risks, symptoms, complications, diagnosis, treatment and key lifestyle steps to help slow progression and protect kidney health.

Placenta previa occurs when the placenta covers the cervix, increasing the risk of bleeding during pregnancy and delivery. In this episode, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor discusses this condition and other placental complications with Dr. Daniela Gomez, an OB-GYN and maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Scripps Clinic. They cover symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and when to seek urgent care. Placental complications discussed include placental abruption, placenta accreta, placental insufficiency and retained placenta.

Weight loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound are widely used for shedding pounds. But what do they mean for your skin and hair? In this episode, host Susan Taylor speaks with Rawaa Almukhtar, MD, a dermatologist at Scripps Clinic, about concerns like "Ozempic face," where rapid weight loss can lead to facial volume loss, sagging skin and a more aged appearance. They also explore hair shedding during weight loss — why it happens, who's most at risk and why it's usually temporary. Plus, simple steps you can take to protect your skin and support healthy hair while on GLP-1 medications.    

Most people love sunny days, and San Diego has plenty of them. However, all that sunshine can increase the risk of skin cancer. The most common type of cancer, skin cancer affects up to 1 in 5 people in the United States, and that number is even higher in areas that get a lot of sunshine. Fortunately, skin cancer can often be detected early when it is most treatable and, with the correct treatment, survival rates can exceed 90%. In this video, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor talks with Scripps Cancer Center dermatologist Benjamin Kelley, MD, about skin cancer risk factors, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.  

Pelvic floor disorders are common, but many people hesitate to talk about symptoms like leakage, pressure or prolapse. The pelvic floor supports key organs, and when it weakens, problems can develop. In this episode, Varuna Raizada, MD, a urogynecologist at Scripps Clinic, explains what the pelvic floor does, common disorders and who's at risk. Dr. Raizada discusses diagnosis, treatment options — including physical therapy, estrogen cream and surgery — plus lifestyle changes, at-home exercises and when it's time to see a doctor.

A mini-stroke — also called a transient ischemic attack, or TIA — can feel like a stroke, but symptoms often fade within minutes. That can make it easy to brush off, but a TIA is a serious warning sign of a possible major stroke. In this episode, Mary Kalafut, MD, a neurologist at Scripps Clinic, explains what a mini-stroke is, what causes it, how it's diagnosed and treated and what to do right away — plus steps you can take to lower your risk.

Glomerular disease affects the kidney's filtering units and can lead to inflammation or scarring that makes it harder to remove waste and excess fluid. Zhabiz Solhjou, MD, a nephrologist at Scripps Clinic, breaks down the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Solhjou also explains who's most at risk, the difference between primary and secondary glomerular disease and how the Scripps glomerular disease clinic helps protect kidney function.

Cardiomyopathy is a serious condition that affects the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood the way it should. Rajeev Mohan, MD, a cardiologist specializing in advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology at Scripps Clinic, explains the different types of cardiomyopathy — including stress-induced "broken heart syndrome" — and what symptoms to watch for. Dr. Mohan also walks through how cardiomyopathy is diagnosed, the latest treatment options (from medications to implanted devices and surgery) and when it's time to see a doctor.

San Diego Heath Podcast: Managing Diabetes During Pregnancy   Pregnancy is an exciting time filled with joy, and understandably, caution. For women with diabetes, there comes an added layer of concern. Managing diabetes during pregnancy takes extra steps, your medical care team can help both mom and baby thrive.   In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic OB-GYN Daniela Gomez, MD, discuss the risks that come with uncontrolled blood sugar while pregnant, diabetes care during pregnancy and after delivery, and how a healthy pregnancy begins even before conception. Dr. Gomez also explains how Scripps' multidisciplinary team works together to keep mom and baby healthy. 

Hormones affect so many aspects of our health, including our moods, hunger, sleep, energy and much more. For women, fluctuating hormone levels can cause headaches that range from annoying to debilitating. Why do hormone headaches happen and how can women find relief? In this video, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor talks about hormone headaches with Scripps neurologist and headache specialist Emily Engel, MD, director of the Dalessio Headache Center at Scripps Clinic. 

San Diego Health Podcast: Theranostics The field of cancer care is constantly advancing. Until recently, treating many types of cancer involved surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. However, a promising new therapy, called theranostics, is providing precision treatment to patients with advanced pancreatic and prostate cancers.  In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Cancer Center radiologist Nikunj Patel, MD, discuss how theranostics works, how it differs from traditional cancer treatments, and who's a candidate. Dr. Patel also explains why this new form of therapy is considered a "medical smart bomb" against advanced stages of cancer.  

Robotic spine surgery is changing the way back conditions are treated. With greater precision and less recovery time, it can be a game changer for the right patients. Stephen Stephan, MD, orthopedic spine surgeon at Scripps Clinic, answers common questions and explains how it works.

As the old adage goes: You are what you eat. That rings especially true for kids. Children benefit significantly from healthy eating. Healthy eating habits help keep weight under control, support brain development and strong bones, and even boost immunity. But it can be difficult to keep kids on track—or change unhealthy habits that have already developed. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor interviews Scarlett Chen, a Scripps Clinic pediatrician. Dr. Chen gives specific tips on encouraging healthy eating habits for kids, such as eating regular meals with nutritious foods and avoiding drinks with added sugar. Dr. Chen also explains why, for kids, breakfast really is the most important meal of the day.

In this podcast, Mary Kalafut, MD, neurologist at Scripps Clinic John R. Anderson V Medical Pavilion, answers common questions about strokes including symptoms, risk factors and treatment. She also explains why time is critical, what BEFAST stands for and how to lower your risk. Listen to the full Q&A to learn more about strokes and how Scripps is nationally recognized for stroke care. 

Curious about plant-based eating? Tina Tran, MD, an internal medicine physician at Scripps Coastal Medical Center San Marcos, discusses the health benefits of plant-based diets and offers tips for getting started. Learn how to get enough protein, avoid nutrient gaps and build meals you'll enjoy. Explore options like vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian and macrobiotic diets to help find what works for you.

A leaky tricuspid valve can cause blood to flow backward in the heart, leading to symptoms like fatigue, leg swelling, shortness of breath and even heart failure. But new minimally invasive procedures are changing how this condition is treated. Devices like the TriClip repair system and tricuspid valve replacement offer safer options than open heart surgery. Matthew Price, MD, an interventional cardiologist at Scripps Clinic, explains how these treatments are helping people return to active, healthy lives. 

Tired of glasses or contact lenses? LASIK eye surgery could be the answer. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor talks with Scripps ophthalmologist Peter Krall, MD about how LASIK corrects vision by reshaping the cornea, who's a good candidate and what to expect during recovery. Learn if this quick, outpatient procedure could help you see clearly — without the hassle of glasses or contacts. 

Hannah Wangberg, MD, allergist and immunologist, Scripps Clinic Food allergies happen when the immune system overreacts to certain foods, triggering symptoms that can range from mild to life-threatening. Learn how to recognize these reactions and manage them effectively with expert guidance from Hannah Wangberg, MD, an allergist and immunologist at Scripps Clinic. Learn the difference between food allergy and food intolerance and when to seek medical evaluation and treatment.

Your gut does more than digest food —I t impacts your overall health, energy and even mood. In this video, Susan Taylor sits down with Katherine Urbina, DO to discuss how the gut works, what foods help or harm it and what you can do to support a healthier gut long term. 

Lupus is a complex autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body — and often goes undiagnosed. 🧬 Usman Ajaz, MD, Rheumatologist with Scripps Coastal Medical Group, breaks down the causes, symptoms, and treatment options to help patients take control of their health. Listen to the full interview now.  #LupusAwareness #AutoimmuneHealth #ScrippsHealth

Stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation that just won't go away? You could be dealing with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In this episode , host Susan Taylor sits down with gastroenterologist Chiara Maruggi, MD, to talk about the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for IBS. Dr. Maruggi explains the common signs to watch for, why IBS can be tricky to diagnose, and how factors like stress, diet, and gut health all play a role. Learn about the FODMAP diet, how lifestyle changes can help, and why managing IBS is all about creating a long-term partnership with your healthcare provider. If you or someone you know struggles with ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms, this episode offers valuable tips and insights to help you take back control of your digestive health.

Living Organ Donation- Living Kidney Donation: What You Need to Know Did you know you can live a healthy life with just one kidney—and potentially save someone else's life in the process? In this episode, Scripps transplant surgeon Dr. Jenny Lam explains how living kidney donation works, the benefits of donating while alive, and what to expect before, during, and after transplant surgery. Learn about the causes of kidney failure, treatment options like dialysis, and why a transplant from a living donor can offer better outcomes. 🎧 Tune in to discover how one generous act can offer years of life to someone in need.  

Can Type 2 Diabetes Be Reversed? Over the past few decades, Type 2 diabetes has become extremely common both in the United States and worldwide. Moreover, people are being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes at increasingly younger ages. What is causing the rise in this illness—and can Type 2 diabetes be reversed?  In this video, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor talks with Scripps endocrinologist Gabriela Jordan, MD, about what causes Type 2 diabetes and recommendations for preventing or even reversing the disease.

Atrial fibrillation happens when the heart beats at a very fast rate—typically more than 100 beats per minute. Commonly called AFib, atrial fibrillation is the most common form of arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat. AFib causes various symptoms and can be very serious. New technology can treat Afib using faster, more effective methods than in the past. In this video, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor talks with Doug Gibson, MD, a Scripps cardiac electrophysiologist and director of cardiac electrophysiology at the Scripps Prebys Cardiovascular Institute.

Finding out a pregnancy is high-risk can understandably bring a mix of emotions. But a highly skilled perinatology team can ensure that high-risk moms-to-be receive the very best care and have the healthiest pregnancy possible. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Sean Daneshmand, MD, medical director of the department of maternal-fetal health at Scripps Clinic, and Scripps prenatal genetic counselor Caitlin Grandfield, discuss what constitutes a high-risk pregnancy and how physicians care for high-risk moms-to-be. Dr. Daneshmand also explains what prospective parents can do to lower their risk even before getting pregnant. 

In this podcast, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor speaks with Dr. David Hermel of Scripps Cancer Center about immunotherapy, a groundbreaking approach to fighting cancer. Unlike traditional treatments like chemotherapy, which affect both healthy and cancerous cells, immunotherapy precisely targets cancer cells by modifying the immune system. Immunotherapy is particularly effective for cancers like melanoma and may be combined with chemotherapy or radiation. Side effects are generally mild, resembling cold-like symptoms. At Scripps Cancer Center, multidisciplinary teams personalize treatments for optimal results.

An estimated one in eight men will develop prostate cancer at some point in their lives. For the roughly 300,000 men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, early detection and treatment can help ensure to a successful outcome. And as prostate cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages, regular screenings are key to early diagnosis. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic urologist Ramsey Chichakli, MD, discuss prostate cancer, how it's diagnosed, and treatment options. Dr. Chichakli also explains how surgery for prostate cancer has advanced over the years to become more precise and less invasive. 

Choosing a pediatrician for your new bundle of joy is one of the most important decisions you can make for your child—one you'll make even before you give birth. Your pediatrician is a critical partner in your baby's health and will likely care for them from birth through their teenage years. But how do you pick the one who's right for your family? In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps pediatrician Dania Lindenberg, MD, discuss what to consider in your search for a pediatrician. Dr. Lindenberg also outlines some specific questions parents-to-be should ask in a meet and greet with a potential pediatrician. 

Heart failure is a life-threatening condition that affects more than five million people in the U.S. each year. However, the "failure" part can be a little misleading. It doesn't mean that the heart has ceased to function; it means that, while the heart is still pumping, it can no longer effectively pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Rola Khedraki, MD, a heart failure and transplant cardiologist at Scripps Clinic, discuss the causes of heart failure, its symptoms, treatment options, and who's at risk. Dr. Khedraki also outlines what people can do now to help prevent heart failure in the future.

Bike riding is a great way to get around and get some exercise—if you do it carefully. There has been a sharp increase in bike- and e-bike-related injuries and deaths in older riders. And according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults over the age of 55 have the highest incidence of bicycle-related deaths. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor discusses bicycle safety with Walter Biffl, MD, medical director of trauma and acute care surgery at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, and Paige Colburn-Hargis, trauma injury prevention coordinator for Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla. The experts also outline the reasons that put older adults at higher risk for injury and why a high-quality helmet is the most important piece of safety equipment riders have.  

Just about everybody gets a headache from time to time. But for the 45 million Americans who suffer from chronic headaches, it can seem like frequent pain is just a part of life. Having a headache seemingly all the time isn't normal. Fortunately, treatment is within reach. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic neurologist Emily Rubenstein Engel, MD, discuss the different types of headaches, what causes them, and how they're treated. Dr. Engel also outlines what happens during a doctor's appointment for a chronic headache diagnosis and when further investigation is needed.

Multiple sclerosis, commonly referred to as MS, is a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the body's central nervous system and causes a wide range of symptoms. Without treatment, MS can become worse over time. Fortunately, newer treatments have slowed the progression of the disease and improved quality of life for those living with it. In this podcast episode, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor talks with Scripps neurologist Louis Goodrich, MD, about the causes, symptoms and treatment of MS.

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. and kills roughly 53,000 people each year. It's understandably not something people like to talk about, but initiating the conversation with your doctor about your risk for colorectal cancer could end up saving your life. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest Walter Coyle, MD, he head of gastroenterology at Scripps Clinic, discuss the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer, who's at risk, how it's diagnosed, and treatment options. Dr. Coyle also touches on the environmental factors that could be behind an increase in colorectal cancers in younger people.  

For the roughly 40 million Americans living with diabetes, it's critical to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Continuous blood sugar monitors may be able to help. The devices track blood sugar levels 24/7—no finger pricks required. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guest, Athena Philis-Tsimikas, MD, a Scripps Clinic endocrinologist and corporate vice president of the Scripps Whittier Diabetes Institute, discuss the benefits of continuous glucose monitors for patients with diabetes. Dr. Tsimikas also explains how continuous glucose monitors can work in tandem with an insulin pump to automatically control blood sugar levels.   

  Years of exposure to the San Diego sunshine can lead to uneven skin tone, dark spots, and spider veins on the face. Fortunately, dermatologists have a variety of laser treatments at their disposal to safely reverse the damage and restore the look of healthy skin. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Edward Ross, MD, a Scripps Clinic dermatologist and director of the Scripps Clinic Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology Center, discuss how lasers work to rejuvenate skin and what conditions can be treated. Dr. Ross also explains how newer lasers can be used to effectively treat acne.  

More than 6.7 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer's disease. The condition most often strikes those ages 65 and up, but can affect younger people as well. Early-onset Alzheimer's disease can develop as early as age 40 to 50. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and Scripps Clinic neurologist Leonard Sokol, MD, discuss early-onset Alzheimer's disease, how it's diagnosed, who's at risk, and treatment options. Dr. Sokol also explains how the symptoms of early-onset Alzheimer's may not always be what older people experience.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.