
Blog
Lompoc Valley Medical Center's publishes health news, personal stories and expert advice meant to guide and inspire healthy diets, relationships and lives.

Exercising: 3 Essentials for Seniors
Exercise is important for good health at any age. Exercise can help maintain proper body weight and help regulate blood glucose and insulin levels to make the body more efficient.

Medication Use and COVID-19
As the world scrambles to contain COVID-19, a lot of information – and misinformation – is spread throughout the news and social media sites. There has been much published regarding the ways in which we can combat COVID-19, from drugs we can use for treatment (new or old), drugs we should not use, and vaccines that are being developed. There have also been assertions regarding over-the-counter remedies. Our goal is to relay evidence-based data we have available at the time of this publication and clear up some of the confusion. This is a fluid situation; the data is constantly being refined and recommendations can change on a daily, if not hourly, basis.

Answers for Expectant Mothers During the COVID-19 Pandemic
I know this is a stressful time, when instead of focusing on this joyful time before the delivery of your baby, you may have concerns or fears related to the Coronavirus pandemic. Please be assured that the OB staff at LVMC are dedicated to providing you with the best support we can during this hard time.

COVID-19: Pregnancy and Postpartum
Parents are likely experiencing a significant increase in pressure and concern while pregnant or caring for a newborn during the COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID and Diabetes in Latinos
COVID-19/Coronavirus is a new and serious threat to everyone, including seniors, but especially Hispanic/Latino people with type 2 diabetes if their blood sugars are high.
Fortunately, all of us can take simple steps to reduce our risk of catching COVID-19 and, if someone with diabetes develops COVID-19, there are important, practical steps to take immediately.
This website includes information in Spanish and English on what Hispanic/Latino people with diabetes should know and do about COVID-19.
Visit www.LatinoDiabetes.net and share this resource with your firends and family.

Getting Your Household Ready for COVID-19
As the nation continues to learn more about the Coronavirus and its health-related impacts, the Centers for Disease Control is urging households to prepare for outbreaks in their own communities.

Tips on Social Distancing and Behavioral Health
Amid the rapidly changing COVID-19 situation and the declaration of a National Emergency, the public is being asked – and in some cases required – to practice a concept called “social distancing.”
For many, terms such as social distancing are new. COVID-19 response has also led to quarantine and isolation to limit the spread of the virus.

The Weight Loss Pitfalls of Grazing
If you find yourself reaching into the chip bag multiple times per day, eating small amounts of nuts here and there, or taking a few bites of leftovers from the fridge, you may have a common eating pattern called grazing.

National Sleep Awareness Week
Sleep, precious sleep. After a long day of work and play, going to sleep is something many of us look forward to. But are you getting enough? While we all know that eating nutritious foods and getting exercise is important for our health, we hear less about the importance of sleep. Getting enough rest is critical to your overall health and well-being.

A Rise in Colorectal Cancer in Young Adults
Colorectal cancer cases among young adults are rising in the United States. Though rates are increasing, there is still a misperception that the disease does not affect young adults.

ED vs. Urgent Care
Health crises can occur at any time of the day or week; they pay no attention to your primary care provider’s office hours. When an unexpected health event occurs, don’t let confusion about the distinction between the Emergency Department (ED) and Urgent Care delay your treatment.
Read on to learn the difference between the medical care provided in emergency departments and urgent cares.

The Nose Knows our Sinuses
As we head into the winter season, you may want to learn more about your nose, and some good practices to keep your nose and sinuses happy this winter. Every day when you look in the mirror, there’s a facial characteristic that is front and center – your nose. But how much do you know about how your nose works?

American Heart Month
Getting struck by cupid can trigger an undeniable heart flutter, but that’s not the only heart condition that should be recognized this February. February also represents American Heart Month, a health holiday that is dedicated to raising awareness about the glaring public health threat posed by heart disease, otherwise known as cardiovascular disease.
Read on to learn more about heart disease and how to shine the spotlight on your own heart health this month.

National Donor Day
On February 14th this year, do more than eat a box of chocolates: Showcase your love of life by observing the 23rd annual National Donor Day. This important health holiday exists to raise awareness about organ donation, a process that is absolutely critical for the well-being of the nearly 114,000 people in the United States who are currently on the waiting list for a lifesaving organ transplant.
Read on to learn more about organ donation and why it is important.

5 ways to Celebrate African Heritage & Health Week
February 1st-7th is African Heritage & Health Week and the first week of Black History Month. African Heritage & Health Week is the ideal time to learn more about your heritage. This week also offers a great opportunity to take a closer look at your health. Taking steps to protect your health helps your family and your community flourish.