To offer expectant mothers who choose to deliver their babies at Lovelace Regional Hospital more control over their comfort, nitrous oxide is an option for pain relief.  Known as “laughing gas,” it is inhaled through a mask and can provide quick pain relief. The effects can wear off quickly and do not impede labor progression…

Many screenplay writers use a common phrase to signal the end of their film: “fade to black.” After his 2023 heart surgery, 67-year-old Herman Johansen – an actor and writer – is determined that his show must go on. Johansen grew up in Billings, Missouri and earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from…

There are eight ways you can improve your heart health and decrease your risk of heart-related illnesses and complications, no matter your age or lifestyle. Charles Kim, M.D., FACC, cardiologist at Lovelace Medical Group/New Mexico Heart Institute, shares these tips. 1. Stop or decrease smoking Risk factors from smoking include heart disease, chest pains, heart…

If your heart’s aflutter, a poet may say the nervous excitement you feel is because you are in love. Your doctor, however, will tell you that your heart’s flutter could be a sign of a serious condition: atrial fibrillation. “Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a serious heart condition that can lead to stroke, heart failure and…

It is estimated that nearly 46% of Americans have high blood pressure, making them more likely to have a heart attack or stroke. Knowing how to take your blood pressure accurately and how to evaluate the reading can be lifesaving. In order to take an accurate blood pressure reading, do not smoke, exercise, drink caffeinated…

Many people believe flu season only lasts a few months, but it can stretch through seven months of the year. Learn tips on what to do if you think you may have the flu. What are symptoms of the flu? Fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher Chills Cough Sore throat Muscle aches Headache Fatigue…

Kassi and Matt Foote, first-time parents in Albuquerque, New Mexico, were counting the days until their new baby was born. Between the baby showers and shopping for new baby supplies, Foote maintained a regular schedule of visits to her obstetrician, who monitored her vital signs and those of her baby. During one of her visits,…

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer accounts for approximately 23% of all cancer deaths, making it a critical public health issue. However, early detection through low-dose CT lung cancer screening can significantly improve survival rates, offering hope for…

The primary care physicians at Lovelace Medical Group provide high quality family medicine services for patients in New Mexico. We specialize in diagnosing and treating various health conditions. Our family medicine services include preventive health check-ups, care for chronic conditions, and guidance on nutrition, exercise, and your overall health. We also provide immunizations and vaccinations,…

One of the most common misconceptions about hearing loss is that it only affects older adults. In reality, anyone at any age can experience hearing loss or decreased clarity of hearing. Here are six things you should understand about avoiding or minimizing hearing loss at any age: 1. What causes hearing loss? Hearing loss can…