Things you need to know for OPTIMAL Health in the Chapala Lakeside
June 2023 Health Newsletter
2023| JUNE
CHAPALA MED HEALTH NEWSLETTER
Greetings from Dr. Hernandez
Warm greetings to our valued patients and the expat community in the Chapala Lakeside area of Jalisco, Mexico!
We hope this newsletter finds you in good health and high spirits as we dive into the beautiful month of June. As always, our primary care medical practice is committed to your well-being and providing you with the best healthcare services.
Last month, we highlighted the significance of mental health, emphasizing its importance for our thriving community of Baby Boomer expats. We understand that living in a foreign country can sometimes bring unique challenges, such as feelings of isolation and adjustment difficulties. However, we encourage you to prioritize your mental wellness by staying connected, engaging in physical activities, exploring new hobbies, and seeking support when needed. Remember, we are here for you every step of the way.
In recent news, we proudly participated in the Rotary Club of Ajijic and SALVATI Guadalajara A.C.’s breast cancer screening campaign on Cinco de Mayo. It was an honor to contribute to this essential initiative, screening approximately 60 women in our area. We want to reiterate that our involvement was driven solely by our dedication to raising awareness about breast cancer and providing follow-up care, without any intention of promoting our business.
In this issue, we aim to shed light on the top health issues that commonly affect the expat population in the state of Jalisco. By addressing these concerns, we strive to empower you with knowledge and information to maintain your well-being while enjoying your life in this vibrant community.
Lastly, we would like to remind you of our unwavering commitment to our mission statement. We are dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare services and ensuring your overall health remains our top priority.
Remember, our team at Chapala Med is here to support you in your healthcare journey. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions, concerns, or to schedule an appointment.
Wishing you continued health and happiness in the month of June.
Yours in health,
Santiago Hernandez, M.D.
Airborne Irritant Induced Sinusitis
As of May 2023, the incidence of patients with Sinusitis has increased dramatically especially in the last few weeks with the increase in the levels of environmental pollution and elevated temperatures in the Guadalajara Metropolitan area and the Chapala Lakeside area.
Although environmental allergies may predispose you to allergies they may also weaken your immune system and predispose you to an infectious infection. Read this article and visit your primary care physician if you have these symptoms for more than one week or so without improvement.
Attention all patients! In observance of Mental Health Month, I want to highlight an incredible podcast series that delves deep into various aspects of mental health. We highly recommend tuning into DEATH, SEX & Money’s captivating episodes, as they offer valuable insights and discussions that are relevant to the well-being of our expat community. These episodes shed light on important topics such as therapy, supporting teen mental health, personal diagnoses, the use of psychiatric medications, the impact of shame on seeking therapy, and addressing mental health concerns in the workplace.
In “Hold On: How Therapists See the Mental Health Crisis,” you’ll gain a unique perspective from therapists themselves, understanding their insights and experiences in dealing with the ongoing mental health crisis. “Hold On: How to Support our Teens’ Mental Health” explores strategies and advice for nurturing the mental well-being of our adolescents, which can be particularly relevant for expat families adjusting to new environments.
For those navigating their own diagnoses, “Hold On: My Diagnosis, My Self” offers personal stories that provide comfort, guidance, and relatability. “Hold On: Let’s Talk About Psych Meds” delves into the complex world of psychiatric medications, addressing common concerns and offering insights that can be beneficial for individuals considering or currently taking these medications.
If shame or stigma has ever hindered your decision to seek therapy, “Hold On: When Shame Keeps You From Therapy” is a must-listen. Lastly, “Hold On: Should I Tell My Boss I’m Depressed?” provides valuable insights for navigating mental health discussions in the workplace.
As your primary care provider, I highly recommend these podcast episodes as a valuable resource for mental health awareness and support. Remember, your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health, and these discussions can provide invaluable guidance and understanding. Click on the link below and take the time to listen, learn, and prioritize your mental health journey.
Wishing you a month filled with mindfulness, self-care, and renewed mental well-being.
Chapala Med medical has been compared and called a CONCIERGE MEDICAL PRACTICE we’d like to state that it’s a PRIMARY CARE PRACTICE.
While both primary care practices and concierge medical practices have their merits, there are three reasons why a primary care practice may be considered superior for expat patients living in Mexico:
Affordability and Accessibility: Primary care practices typically offer more affordable healthcare options, which can be especially advantageous for expats who may be living on a fixed income or seeking cost-effective medical services. Primary care practices often accept various insurance plans, including international health insurance, and provide accessible healthcare services to a broader patient population. In contrast, concierge medical practices tend to involve higher membership fees or direct payments for personalized services, making them less financially viable for some expats.
Comprehensive Care and Continuity: Primary care practices offer comprehensive healthcare services, including preventive care, routine check-ups, and management of chronic conditions. They focus on building long-term relationships with patients, emphasizing continuity of care and a holistic approach to well-being. This can be especially valuable for expat patients who require ongoing medical support and want a healthcare provider who understands their medical history and individual needs. In a primary care practice, the primary care physician serves as the central point of contact, coordinating referrals to specialists when necessary.
Local Expertise and Cultural Understanding: Primary care practices in Mexico often have physicians who possess deep knowledge of the local healthcare system, cultural norms, and specific health challenges faced by expat patients. They can offer valuable insights and guidance on navigating the local healthcare landscape, connecting patients with appropriate specialists and resources. Primary care physicians in Mexico are typically well-versed in local health regulations, language proficiency, and familiarity with regional healthcare facilities, facilitating a smoother healthcare experience for expats.
While concierge medical practices may provide additional benefits such as enhanced convenience and personalized attention, primary care practices often offer a more accessible, comprehensive, and cost-effective option for expat patients seeking reliable healthcare services in Mexico.
CONFUSION with “BLOOD THINNERS” – Plavix vs. Eiquis
There is often confusion regarding certain BLOOD THINNERS and their indications. Be sure to check with your PRIMARY CARE DOCTOR when you have been prescribed these mediations and why.
Eliquis and Plavix are both medications used to prevent blood clots, but they belong to different drug classes and have different mechanisms of action. Here’s a comparison of Eliquis and Plavix:
Drug Class:
Eliquis (generic name: apixaban): It belongs to the class of medications known as direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) or non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs).
Plavix (generic name: clopidogrel): It belongs to the class of medications known as antiplatelet drugs or P2Y12 inhibitors.
Mechanism of Action:
Eliquis: It works by inhibiting a specific clotting factor called factor Xa, which plays a crucial role in the formation of blood clots. By inhibiting factor Xa, Eliquis helps prevent the formation of blood clots.
Plavix: It works by inhibiting platelet aggregation. Platelets are blood cells that play a vital role in blood clotting. By inhibiting platelet aggregation, Plavix helps prevent the formation of blood clots.
Indications:
Eliquis: It is primarily used to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (an irregular heart rhythm). It is also used to treat and prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) and to prevent blood clots in patients who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery.
Plavix: It is primarily used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death in patients with acute coronary syndrome, recent heart attack, or stroke. It is also used to prevent blood clots in patients with certain cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary artery disease and peripheral artery disease.
Administration:
Eliquis: It is taken orally as a tablet, typically twice daily.
Plavix: It is taken orally as a tablet, typically once daily.
Side Effects:
Eliquis: Common side effects may include bleeding, bruising, nausea, and anemia. Serious bleeding is a potential but rare side effect.
Plavix: Common side effects may include bruising, bleeding, upset stomach, and diarrhea. Like Eliquis, serious bleeding is a potential but rare side effect.
It is important to note that the choice between Eliquis and Plavix depends on several factors, including the specific medical condition being treated, individual patient characteristics, and the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss the potential risks and benefits of these medications in your particular situation.
Chapala Med Mission Statement
The Healthcare providers & Staff at Chapala Med pledge
“to preserve our humility, integrity, and all the values which brought us to the practice of medicine. We will engage in honest self-reflection, striving for excellence but acknowledging our limitations, and caring for ourselves as we care for others. We will seek to heal the whole person, rather than merely treat disease, committing to a partnership with our patients that empowers them and demonstrates empathy and respect. We will cure sometimes, treat often, and comfort always.”