Health Care Tips

    Can You Take Cholesterol Medications Before a Colonoscopy? Content Overview Can You Take Cholesterol Medications Before a Colonoscopy? Before Your Colonoscopy On the Day of the Procedure Conclusion Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Struggling With High Cholesterol in Kingman, Arizona? Can I take Lipitor before a colonoscopy Do statins interfere with colonoscopy prep? Should I stop taking cholesterol medicine before a colonoscopy? Which medications should be stopped before a colonoscopy? Can I drink water with my medication before a colonoscopy? Can You Take Cholesterol Medications Before a Colonoscopy? Yes, you can usually continue taking your cholesterol-lowering medication, such as statins (Lipitor, Zocor, Vytorin, Pravachol), before a colonoscopy. Most doctors recommend taking them with a small sip of water on the morning of your procedure. However, always follow the specific instructions provided by your physician, as some other medications may need to be stopped or adjusted. Before Your Colonoscopy Confirm with Your Doctor Natural Topical Remedies Always check with the doctor who prescribed your cholesterol medication or your gastroenterologist for personalized instructions. Your physician’s advice should take priority over general guidelines. Know Your Medications Make a full list of your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements. Some supplements and medications, such as iron pills or NSAIDs, may need to be discontinued before the procedure. Check for Blood Thinners Ensure your cholesterol medication is not a blood thinner or anti-platelet drug. Medications like Warfarin (Coumadin), Clopidogrel (Plavix), or similar drugs often require special instructions and are usually paused before a colonoscopy to reduce bleeding risks. On the Day of the Procedure Follow Instructions Take your statin medication (e.g., Lipitor, Zocor) with a small sip of water, unless your doctor advises otherwise. Avoid Solid Food Do not eat any solid food on the day of your colonoscopy. Stick to the clear liquid diet as directed during your preparation. Arrive Prepared Plan to be at the center for a couple of hours. Arrange for a driver or escort, as you will not be able to drive after receiving sedation. Conclusion Cholesterol medications, particularly statins, are generally safe to continue before a colonoscopy, but always confirm with your doctor to ensure proper preparation. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Can I take Lipitor before a colonoscopy? Yes. Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a cholesterol-lowering statin and can usually be taken the morning of your colonoscopy with a small sip of water. Always confirm with your doctor for personalized guidance. Do statins interfere with colonoscopy prep? In most cases, no. Statins do not need to be stopped before a colonoscopy, but always follow your prescribing doctor’s or gastroenterologist’s instructions. Should I stop taking cholesterol medicine before a colonoscopy? No. Statins such as Lipitor, Zocor, Pravachol, and Vytorin do not interfere with bowel preparation or the colonoscopy procedure. Which medications should be stopped before a colonoscopy? Blood thinners (e.g., Warfarin, Plavix), certain diabetes medications, iron supplements, and NSAIDs may need to be paused or adjusted before a colonoscopy. Your doctor will give you exact instructions. Can I drink water with my medication before a colonoscopy? Yes, most doctors allow you to take essential medications (like statins) with a small sip of water on the day of your colonoscopy. However, stop all liquids at the cutoff time given in your prep instructions. Struggling With High Cholesterol in Kingman, Arizona? High cholesterol can silently increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health issues. Many people in Kingman and nearby communities—Golden Valley, Valle Vista, Lazy Y U, Walnut Creek, Antares, and Bullhead City—live with this challenge every day, often without clear guidance on how to manage it. That’s where Northern Arizona Medical Group (NAMG) comes in. Our dedicated team provides personalized cholesterol management and heart health support, helping you lower risks, improve wellness, and regain peace of mind. 👉 Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward protecting your heart and your future.   Posts You May Like

Is Your Blood Pressure Too High in the Morning? Did you know that around 20% of adults experience a significant rise in their blood pressure every morning? This “morning surge” most often happens between 6 AM and 12 PM and is linked to a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes during that time. In fact, heart attacks are about three times more common at 9 AM than at 11 PM, and nearly 44% of ischemic strokes occur in the morning hours. So, is your blood pressure too high in the morning? Let’s break down what’s normal, when to be concerned, and what you can do about it. What Is a Normal Morning Blood Pressure? Your body’s blood pressure naturally rises in the morning. For most people, this increase is modest and part of the circadian rhythm, preparing you for the day. Say your normal day reading is around 120/80 mmHg—in the morning, it might rise slightly to about 123/82 mmHg, which is totally normal and not a worry. But if your morning blood pressure consistently hits 130/80 or higher, that’s a red flag. This range is considered stage 1 hypertension and puts you at greater risk of cardiovascular events. Why Is Morning Blood Pressure Important? Morning blood pressure spikes are considered a major risk factor for cardiovascular problems because: Blood pressure tends to peak between waking and midday. Abnormal morning surges predict higher chances of heart attacks, strokes, and organ damage. People with “morning hypertension” have roughly double the risk of heart events compared to those with stable numbers. How to Tell if Your Blood Pressure Is Too High in the Morning Start by measuring your blood pressure right after you wake up—before you leave the bed or start your day’s hustle. Here’s a quick checklist to get reliable readings: Sit or lie down quietly for 3–5 minutes before measuring Use the same arm consistently for all readings Avoid caffeine, smoking, or heavy meals before taking your measurement Track the numbers for at least a week at the same time each morning If the average of those readings is above 130/80 mmHg, chat with your healthcare provider. Tracking is a must because one-off high readings aren’t the full story. What Can You Do If Your Morning Blood Pressure Is Too High? Good news: you’ve got control over this. Here are some practical, straightforward tips to keep that morning blood pressure in check: Establish a regular sleep schedule. Poor or irregular sleep raises morning BP. Cut down on salt in your evening meals to reduce overnight retention. Take prescribed meds as directed (some might work better if taken at night; talk to your doctor). Start your morning with gentle hydration and light movement, not a mad rush. Try stress reduction techniques like deep breathing or meditation right after waking. Even small lifestyle shifts pack a punch with morning blood pressure control. What Are the Normal Ranges for Morning Blood Pressure? Blood Pressure Level Systolic (Top) mmHg Diastolic (Bottom) mmHg What It Means Normal Under 120 Under 80 Safe, healthy blood pressure Elevated 120–129 Under 80 Watch your lifestyle Stage 1 Hypertension 130–139 80–89 Time to take action Stage 2 Hypertension 140 or higher 90 or higher Seek medical advice urgently Final Thoughts on Morning Blood Pressure So, is your blood pressure too high in the morning? If it’s consistently above 130/80, it’s a strong signal to take action—whether that’s getting a proper diagnosis, tweaking lifestyle habits, or reviewing medication. Remember: Morning blood pressure readings are often the most reliable of the day and give you important insight into your heart health. Keep it simple—track, act, and stay consistent. Your heart will thank you later. Manage Morning Blood Pressure and Chronic Conditions with NAMG’s RPM Services in Kingman, AZ At Northern Arizona Medical Group (NAMG), we don’t just treat high blood pressure—we help you stay ahead of it. Our team provides comprehensive care for hypertension, diabetes, and other chronic conditions, right here in Kingman, AZ. Through our Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) services, we track your blood pressure and other vital signs daily—right from your home. That means real-time support, earlier interventions, and better peace of mind. 🩺 Whether it’s a morning BP spike or long-term blood pressure management, NAMG combines in-clinic care with remote technology to keep your heart healthy and your life on track. 📍 Located in 3555 Western Ave Kingman, AZ 86409 Kingman, AZ, we’re here to help you monitor, manage, and improve your health—one smart step at a time. Contact us today to learn how RPM and personalized care from NAMG can make a difference. Posts You May Like

Top 10 Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally | Easy & Effective Tips Ever feel like high blood pressure is this silent, sneaky problem? Like one minute, you’re fine—the next, the doc says you need to sort your numbers out? Same. People come to me asking: “What do I eat to seriously lower blood pressure?” So, if you’re keen to lower blood pressure naturally, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into the top 10 foods that work—no fluff, just facts, stories, and easy swaps you can actually use. Why Bother With Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally? Getting your nutrition dialed in is a game-changer. The right foods do more than fill you up—they protect your heart, balance sodium, and have your back long-term. I’ll break down each pick with stats, relatable hacks, and real “try-this-today” energy. Leafy Greens – Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Spinach, kale, chard These are like rocket fuel for your blood pressure Loaded with potassium and magnesium—big players for keeping things in check One cup of cooked Swiss chard: about 961mg potassium, 150mg magnesium Add a handful to an omelette or whack it in your smoothie, easy Stat attack: Every extra gram of potassium lowers systolic BP by about 2.4 mm Hg in some adults. Eat more greens, get more wins. Berries – Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries—super simple microwave fix or snack straight from the tub Full of anthocyanins (the stuff that gives them colour) Antioxidants that help unclog the pipes Harvard study: higher berry intake slashed the risk of hypertension by 8% in middle-aged women Chuck a handful in your breakfast yoghurt to start your day strong Want to sweeten your diet and lower blood pressure naturally? Berries have you covered. Beets – Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Raw, roasted, juiced Packed with dietary nitrates Helps relax blood vessels so your heart doesn’t have to work so hard Drinking beet juice: lowers systolic BP by 4–5 mm Hg, proven in studies Roast them with olive oil Or grab a supermarket juice if you’re time-poor The stats are clear—beets make a difference. Citrus Fruits – Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons Full of vitamin C and potassium Brighten up your breakfast or snack on segments Eating 530–600 grams of fruit daily (4-ish oranges): linked to lower BP Good excuse for a fruit salad or “grapefruit for lunch” habit Keep it juicy. Keep your blood pressure lower. Fatty Fish – Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Salmon, mackerel, sardines = omega-3 goldmines Omega-3s cut inflammation, support heart health 2–3 grams a day (think a regular portion of salmon) lowers systolic BP by up to 4.5 mm Hg Tin of sardines on toast? Sorted Bring on the fish nights. Your arteries will thank you. Whole Grains – Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Oats, brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread Packed with fibre, magnesium, and potassium Every extra 30g of whole grains daily = 8% drop in hypertension risk Swap white bread for brown, simple bread Add oats to your breakfast — you won’t look back Little swaps add up fast. Yoghurt and Low-Fat Dairy – Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Calcium, potassium, magnesium Pick unsweetened versions Research from 2021: regular yoghurt made a real dent in blood pressure, especially for folks already struggling Greek yoghurt as a snack or breakfast Add a sprinkle of berries (see above!) It’s not just tasty, it’s strategic. Nuts and Seeds – Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Almonds, pumpkin seeds, chia, sunflower, walnuts Punchy on magnesium, potassium, healthy fats Regular nuts/seeds = better blood pressure, better heart health Seeds double as a plant-based source of omega-3s Snack on a mix, top your salads, throw into porridge Your new “crunchy” habit pays off big. Olive Oil – Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Healthy monounsaturated fats, lots of antioxidants Mediterranean secret weapon Just two tablespoons daily has been shown to lower both systolic and diastolic BP Drizzle on salads Cook your veg in it—even use it instead of butter on toast Keep it simple, keep it tasty, keep your blood pressure happy. Watermelon – Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Hydrating and sweet (without the worry) Loaded with citrulline, which boosts nitric oxide (that’s a natural vessel relaxer) Eating one cup of chopped watermelon? Studies see a real drop in systolic BP Blend into a smoothie or cube it as a post-workout snack Watermelon isn’t just for summer—it’s for a healthy heart. Quick Table: Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Food Star Nutrients/Compounds Blood Pressure Boost Leafy Greens Potassium, Magnesium Drop systolic BP by 2.4 mm Hg per extra g potassium Berries Anthocyanins 8% lower hypertension risk Beets Dietary Nitrates Lower systolic BP by 4–5 mm Hg Citrus Fruits Vitamin C, Potassium 530–600g/day tied to lower BP Fatty Fish Omega-3s Up to 4.5 mm Hg drop in systolic BP Whole Grains Fibre, Magnesium 8% lower risk, 30g swap Yoghurt/Dairy Calcium, Potassium Measurable BP improvement Nuts & Seeds Mg, K+, Omega-3s Better BP, stronger heart Olive Oil Monounsats, Antioxidants 2 tbsp/day makes a difference Watermelon Citrulline Daily = lower systolic BP My Final Take on Foods to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Don’t overthink it Simple swaps, eaten often, work I always say: Eat the foods to lower blood pressure naturally, skip the stress Your numbers come down, your days feel easier High blood pressure isn’t a mystery The real results come when you bring these foods to the table—literally Dial them in, track your progress, and keep it real with your choices Remember: Foods to lower blood pressure naturally work best as a daily habit, not a one-off End every day knowing you made a choice your future self will thank you for Final Take from NAMG – Your Partner in Health, Right Here in Kingman, AZ: At Northern Arizona Medical Group (NAMG), we believe better blood pressure starts with better choices—and we’re here to help you make them daily. Whether you’re managing hypertension, diabetes, or another chronic condition, our expert care team in Kingman, AZ provides the support, guidance, and personalized treatment plans you need to feel your best. From dietary coaching to chronic care management, we go beyond

Type 1 Diabetes Information What Are the Symptoms of Diabetes Type 1? Type 1 diabetes symptoms often appear suddenly and can get serious fast. Recognising them early is crucial to getting help and avoiding complications. The Four Classic Symptoms of Diabetes Type 1 Thirst — feeling very thirsty all the time, no matter how much you drink Toilet — needing to pee (urinate) more often than usual, including at night Thinner — losing weight quickly without trying Tired — feeling extremely tired or weak, more than usual These symptoms happen because your body can’t produce insulin, so sugar builds up in your blood instead of giving you energy. Other Common Symptoms of Diabetes Type 1 Blurred vision Extreme hunger Irritability and mood changes Cuts and wounds that heal slowly Frequent infections Tingling or numbness in hands or feet (less common early on) Dry mouth and itchy skin What Is the Difference Between Diabetes Type 1 and Type 2? Type 1 diabetes happens when the body stops making insulin because the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells. Type 2 diabetes happens when the body does not use insulin well, often due to lifestyle and weight. Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes: Key Differences Feature Type 1 Diabetes Type 2 Diabetes Cause Autoimmune destruction of insulin cells Insulin resistance + decreased insulin production Insulin production Little to none Initially normal or high, declines over time Age of onset Usually children/young adults Usually adults 40+, now younger too Symptom onset Rapid (days/weeks) Slow (years) Treatment Insulin injections/pump mandatory Lifestyle, oral meds, sometimes insulin Risk factors Genetics, unknown triggers Obesity, inactivity, genetics, age What Foods to Avoid with Type 1 Diabetes? Avoid sugary drinks, sweets, white bread, white rice, fried foods, processed meats, full-fat dairy, and salty snacks. Do Type 1 Diabetics Need More Sleep? They don’t need more sleep than others, but quality sleep is crucial for blood sugar control. How Many Miles Should a Diabetic Walk a Day? Aim for 4–5 miles (10,000 steps) daily, or at least 30 minutes of brisk walking. Start slow if needed. Does Type 1 Diabetes Cause More Sleep? Not necessarily, but disrupted sleep is common due to blood sugar issues and can make you feel more tired. What Is the Best Food to Reverse Diabetes? Focus on whole grains, beans, leafy vegetables, avocados, nuts, olive oil, and Greek yogurt. These help manage or reverse type 2 diabetes. What Triggers Type 1 Diabetes? Autoimmune response, possibly triggered by viruses or environmental factors. Genetics play a role, but not lifestyle. What Are 5 Signs Your Blood Sugar Is Too High? Increased thirst Frequent urination Fatigue Blurred vision Unintended weight loss Managing Type 1 Diabetes with Northern Arizona Medical Group At Northern Arizona Medical Group (NAMG) in Kingman, AZ, our expert care team supports patients with Type 1 diabetes through personalized treatment, education, and continuous monitoring. Our Family Medicine and Internal Medicine specialists are here to help you lead a healthier life, every step of the way. Posts You May Like

What Foods Should Diabetics Avoid? The Real Deal: What Should Diabetics Avoid? If you’re managing diabetes, this question is top of mind. You want to eat well but keep your blood sugar steady. So, what foods should diabetics avoid to make life easier and healthier? Let’s cut through the noise and get straight to the point. Top Offenders That Spike Your Blood Sugar Start with these troublemakers that spike blood sugar and cause havoc: Sugary foods and drinks: Candy, cakes, cookies, ice cream, sugary sodas, fruit juices with added sugar — these send your blood sugar soaring fast. Fact: Reducing sugary drink consumption is linked to lower risk of type 2 diabetes and weight gain. The UK recommends limiting free sugars to about 5% of daily calories to reduce diabetes risk. Refined carbs and white flour products: White bread, white rice, white pasta, naan — these digest quickly and cause sharp blood sugar spikes. Stat: In England, type 2 diabetes prevalence is rising, with 7.0% of adults aged 17+ diagnosed by 2024, partly driven by dietary factors. Fried foods: French fries, fried chicken, deep-fried snacks — loaded with unhealthy fats and calories that worsen insulin resistance. Processed and red meats: Sausages, bacon, hot dogs, fatty cuts of beef and lamb — linked to higher risk of diabetes complications. Full-fat dairy: Whole milk, butter, cream, full-fat cheese — high in saturated fats that can worsen insulin resistance. High-sodium foods: Canned vegetables with salt, pickles, processed snacks — excess salt raises blood pressure, a common issue in diabetics. Sweetened fruit products: Canned fruit in syrup, fruit gummies, jams — packed with hidden sugars. Why These Foods Worsen Diabetes Cause blood sugar spikes that are hard to control Increase insulin resistance making diabetes worse Lead to weight gain which complicates diabetes management Raise risk of heart disease and stroke — major concerns for diabetics Fact: Around 90% of adults with type 2 diabetes in England are overweight or obese, which worsens insulin resistance and diabetes control. Surprising “Healthy” Foods That Aren’t Flavoured yoghurts with added sugars Store-bought sauces and dressings loaded with sugar and salt Dried fruits and fruit snacks with concentrated sugar Fast food meals — burgers, fries, sugary drinks all together Baked goods like doughnuts, croissants, and pastries Smart Food Swaps for Better Blood Sugar Control Instead of white bread, go for wholegrain or multigrain bread Swap white rice for brown, wild, or basmati rice Choose lean proteins like chicken breast, fish, tofu, and legumes Snack on nuts, seeds, and fresh veggies instead of chips or sweets Use olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter or lard Drink water, herbal tea, or unsweetened drinks instead of sugary sodas A Personal Take on Making Better Choices It’s not about cutting everything out forever. It’s about knowing what hits your blood sugar hard and cutting back. One friend of mine swapped his sugary cereal for oats and fruit — his energy and blood sugar improved big time. Small changes add up. Final Word: Keep It Balanced and Real Focus on limiting sugary foods, refined carbs, fried and processed meats, full-fat dairy, and salty snacks. Balance is key — enjoy treats occasionally but keep your daily diet full of whole, nutrient-rich foods. That’s the winning formula for managing diabetes and feeling good. Quick Recap: Diabetes & Diet Stats You Should Know Over 5.8 million people in the UK are living with diabetes — an all-time high. Around 90% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes prevalence in England rose to 7.0% in adults aged 17+ by March 2024. 90% of adults with type 2 diabetes aged 16-54 years in England were overweight or obese. Reducing sugary drink intake and free sugars to 5% of daily calories can lower diabetes risk. Posts You May Like