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Internal Medicine and Geriatric Treatment for Older Adults

Giving geriatric treatment is within the confines of internal medicine. It deals with the internal health of the elderly. Targeting the specific ailments of the older generation needs more focus. It means looking at all the parts of the illness. If you want to understand internal medicine and geriatric treatments for the elderly, here are the details.

PROVIDING THE TREATMENTS

General internal and geriatric medicine tend to overlap. Most internists see elderly patients. Doctors who practice geriatric medicine treat almost the same ailments internists do. The elderly can access treatments for internal medical issues. They will not need to leave the facility to see an internist anymore.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Many people think that older people do not need psychotherapy anymore. This is because most older adults are set in the way they do things. In truth, many elderly patients want to seek psychotherapy. They want help in coping with aging, unresolved issues, and family relationships.

Older adults want psychotherapy to help them tackle their behavior and present situation. These patients do not want to resolve childhood issues. The goal is for them to have one or two 45-minute sessions in one month. These sessions must have new strategies for dealing with problems and family members.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Physical therapy is an important form of geriatric treatment. It improves a patient’s mobility, strength, and flexibility. This treatment benefits the internal health of a geriatric patient. It reduces the patient’s risk of falling and any form of injury.

This type of therapy goes well with internal medicine treatments in reducing pain from various chronic ailments like arthritis. It even cancels out future symptoms. This leads to lessening any need for prescription pain medication. Removing more prescription medications can be cost-effective for the patient.

ACUPUNCTURE

This is a method from the Ancient Chinese culture. Here, the healthcare professional inserts thin needles into different areas of the body. Doing so will treat many diseases. This geriatric treatment can offer relief to older adults without using prescription medication. It can relieve respiratory issues. Acute rhinitis and acute tonsilitis are only two of these ailments.

Acupuncture can treat eye disorders as well. This geriatric treatment can relieve myopia and conjunctivitis in the elderly. The yin and yang in acupuncture can help older adults regain balance in the body. The energy balance in the body reduces diseases.

Many older adults experience mental and emotional problems. Acupuncture can also treat them. Insomnia, anxiety, and depression are common in elderly patients. These result in many types of body pains. The healthcare provider will target specific points in the body and place the needle in them. Regular sessions can provide consistent relaxation as well.

AS A TOOL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, A GERIATRIC TREATMENT CAN HELP THE PATIENT ON MANY LEVELS

Geriatric patients tend to be more complex than younger ones. That is why there is an entire branch of healthcare capable of caring for the elderly. A geriatric treatment has more than one method of providing care. An appointment with your geriatrician can help start your loved one’s treatment plan right away.

Three Types of Preventative Care

Preventative care aims to prevent health concerns from developing. Often, early detection of health concerns, specifically for those that are not always preventable, is also considered preventative care. Medical clinics offer special services to help patients prevent health concerns rather than simply reacting to them once more severe symptoms develop.

COMMON TYPES OF PREVENTATIVE CARE FROM A MEDICAL CLINIC

There are more than a dozen possible preventative care services that medical clinics may provide, and the specific list of services looks different for every clinic. However, three common types of preventative care that medical professionals and clinics offer are annual physical exams, cancer screenings, and vaccinations.

ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAMS

An annual physical exam measures and monitors weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, reflexes, vital signs, and more in search of any abnormalities in the test results. The hope is for positive results so that the patient can know that they are in good health and on the right track to reduce the risk of health concerns as much as possible.

However, if any concerns develop, then an annual exam can often allow for a less invasive treatment and prevention plan. For example, a patient with high blood pressure who has also gained weight may benefit from an increased workout regimen and a stricter diet. As the name suggests, annual physical exams are encouraged once each year, although some patients may need check-up exams more often depending on the status of their health.

CANCER SCREENINGS

Depending on your age, lifestyle factors, medical history, and hereditary conditions, some patients may be at a higher risk of cancer. After an assessment, medical clinics may recommend certain cancer screenings. For example, it is recommended to have a colonoscopy (a screening for colon cancer) by the age of 45 and approximately every five to ten years after the first screening if there are no signs of concern. Other types of cancer screenings include mammograms, oral cancer screenings, and screenings for lung cancer, among many other possible options.

VACCINATIONS

Routine vaccinations are also a type of preventative care offered by many medical clinics. This includes annual flu shots as well as any vaccinations the patient did not receive as a child. The coronavirus vaccination is also encouraged for those who have not yet received it.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PREVENTATIVE CARE

Taking a precautionary approach to health is a much more effective long-term strategy than reacting to illnesses and diseases after they develop. Preventative care ensures that the risk of developing certain conditions is minimized and allows for early intervention if any symptoms are detected or if the patient is diagnosed with a condition.

CONTACT OUR MEDICAL CLINIC TO SCHEDULE A PREVENTATIVE CARE VISIT

You can connect with our medical clinic team by giving us a call during office hours or by sending us a message at any time. We believe the best way to deal with medical concerns is through early detection and prevention when possible. So why wait? Give us a call today.

Primary Medical Care: Who Provides it and Why You Need it

Primary medical care is provided for the entire family unit so that everyone can go to one doctor’s office and receive quality care from the same provider. The three focuses of a primary care physician are usually pediatrics, general internal medicine and family medicine.

THE CONDITIONS A PRIMARY MEDICAL DOCTOR CAN TREAT

There are specific conditions, illnesses and other ailments that these primary medical doctors can care for. Chronic medical conditions, in anyone, of any age, can be taken care of by this doctor. Not only that, but even children can see the primary care provider to receive quality care, even if they are newborns. Many times, these primary care providers can also provide prenatal care or women’s services if required. Specializing in a range of areas, they are a well-rounded choice for a family looking for whole family care. That being said, they may also refer patients to specialists if they feel it is in the best interest of the patient.

WHAT IS PRIMARY MEDICAL CARE?

Primary medical care refers to a range of medical topics and services provided. It is the place where a person goes to get the medical care that they need for a condition, illness, ailment or other problem that has yet to be diagnosed. They provide continuing care for conditions that have been diagnosed and need to be treated regularly. If the patient requires specialized care, then the primary care provider can refer the patient to a specialist. For example, they may refer a patient to a cardiologist for help with a heart-related condition or to a gastroenterologist for help with intestinal problems. Then, the specialist will send information on the diagnosis or treatment plans that they recommend. This allows the primary care doctor to continue monitoring the patient’s overall health, even though they are not leading this particular treatment area.

FIND A QUALITY CARE PROVIDER

While searching for primary medical care, contact our office. We are accepting new patients and will be happy to answer questions. If living outside of our area, ask friends and family for a referral. When meeting with a new doctor be sure to ask about the care they provide, who they see, and what they believe is recommended to treat any health challenges you are facing. It is also important to find someone who the whole family is comfortable with. Once this is done, schedule an appointment for everyone to visit the doctor at least once per year. These annual visits are important because whenever someone is sick, they can see a doctor that they have already established a relationship with.

Living With Pulmonary Hypertension

A diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension may seem overwhelming, but in today’s world, living with this rare disorder is manageable. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is something that many people regulate with medication. While this in of itself is a potentially dangerous condition, coupled with a restriction of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, the disorder can escalate if someone suffering from it does not make some modifications. Take a closer look at what this disorder is and how a person can cope with it.

BASICS OF PULMONARY HYPERTENSION

The relationship between the heart and the lungs is crucial. Not only do they maintain the respiratory system, but this dynamic duo ensures a proper amount of oxygen flows through the body. When the arteries between these two organs narrow, blood pumped away from the heart and into the lungs is severely limited. Blood pressure in these pulmonary arteries escalates and, if left unregulated, can cause a person to suffer respiratory or cardiac distress. The disease is progressive, and while not reversible, in some cases, the effects can be significantly reduced.

TIPS FOR MANAGING THE DISORDER

Dealing with pulmonary disease may mean modifying some aspects of life. Even so, leading a relatively healthy and happy life is achievable with the right kind of mindset, determination and discipline.

WATCH SALT AND WATER INTAKE

The body needs both water and salt to stay hydrated and survive. However, when it comes to those living with pulmonary hypertension, these two necessities may spell trouble. When the heart cannot effectively pump blood through the lungs, it cannot clear the body of excess fluid. People with pulmonary issues tend to retain water in areas like the legs, face, hands and feet. When trying to minimize the effects this disorder has on the body, consuming less salt and fluids in a day may help keep the swelling down.

EAT A DIET HIGH IN FIBER

Adhering to a nutritional diet, high in fiber and low in fat and sugar, is a good recommendation for anyone wanting to lead a healthy life. For those with a pulmonary disorder, this type of diet is critical. Eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help the body flush out excess fluid and salt, as well as keep arteries clear of fat sediments. Lean meats and fish are also essential to maintaining a heart-happy nutritional program.

PRACTICE LIGHT TO MODERATE EXERCISE

Light to moderate activity is typically recommended for those dealing with pulmonary hypertension. However, every person is different and should speak to a doctor before starting any exercise program. Some patients need to go through a heart rehab program, which steps up activity level under the supervision of a trained clinician. That way, there is not an inappropriate amount of stress placed on the heart and lungs.

CONCLUSION

The prognosis for a pulmonary hypertension diagnosis depends on the patient and how advanced the case has progressed before medical intervention. However, with the proper medication and lifestyle changes, a person can expect to live life as usual. Someone dealing with a pulmonary disorder may notice that life improves once the body has started to adjust to treatment. Breathing easier and feeling more relaxed are two positive effects of finally getting the condition under control.

Understanding Diabetes Treatment And Getting a Diagnosis

If you are diagnosed with diabetes, it may take time to find the best diabetes treatment. Diabetes is a condition that affects the blood sugar levels in the human body. When a person has this condition, they have to maintain their insulin and blood sugar levels. This can be accomplished with diet, exercise, and medication. However, it is necessary to know whether or not the pancreas is producing enough insulin.

Tests can determine whether a person has diabetes and once that is determined, we can provide the best treatment plan.

DIAGNOSING DIABETES 

Diabetes can be diagnosed after a series of tests are performed by a physician. The available tests are as follows:

#1 Fasting blood test

A person is unable to eat or drink anything for several hours before having their blood drawn in a lab.

#2 Oral glucose test

There is also an oral glucose test that can be taken to determine the blood sugar and insulin levels inside the body.

#3 A1c tests

These tests are used to test the blood over a specified period. High levels in the blood mean the person has diabetes.

LEARNING MORE ABOUT DIABETES TREATMENT

diabetes treatment will vary depending on the specific diagnosis and patient. Diabetes is not a condition that can be treated by one physician alone. We work with the patient to have the best outcome for the treatment of diabetes, which may include working with additional professionals. These can consist of a nutritionist, a podiatrist (foot doctor), and a diabetes specialist.

Medication, exercise, and changing a person’s diet can all help to control the symptoms of diabetes. Managing blood sugar levels and insulin output is also required to keep diabetes under control. Insulin is the most prescribed medication for patients that have diabetes. This helps the body process the sugars and keep levels regular. The specific medicines required vary from patient to patient, so it is essential to speak with our office about what should be taken.

CHECKING BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS

Monitoring the levels of insulin in the blood is extremely important for those with diabetes. This is completed by using a lance that draws the blood from the fingers of the patient. Once the blood is drawn, it is put onto a test strip and inserted into a machine that reads the blood sugar levels of the person.

This indicates to the person whether or not their sugar levels are normal, too high or too low. If the levels are too low, the person may need to have more sugar intake. Levels that are too high indicates that insulin is required to bring the sugar levels down. Specific directions are given to the patient on how to handle their situation.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH OUR OFFICE

Speak with a physician today if you suspect that you may have diabetes. The right diabetes treatment plan is required to keep the condition under control. This is something that is important to consider since diabetes can become dangerous for a person if not kept under control.

High Cholesterol Treatment: Eating for Your Heart

Are you looking for information on high cholesterol treatment? Cholesterol is the waxy substance that your body uses to protect nerves, make cell tissues and produce certain specific hormones. Your liver produces all the cholesterol that your body could ever need. Additionally, your body gets cholesterol directly from the food you eat. Too much cholesterol can negatively impact your health.

WHAT IS HIGH CHOLESTEROL?

High cholesterol, or hyperlipidemia, means your blood has too many lipids (or fats), such as cholesterol and triglycerides. One type of hyperlipidemia, known as hypercholesterolemia, is a result of too much LDL cholesterol in your blood, a condition that increases fatty deposits in arteries and the risk of blockages.

Having high cholesterol levels in your blood increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. There are no symptoms of high cholesterol. You will only learn you have it after your doctor has ordered a blood test known as a lipid panel.

TREATING HIGH CHOLESTEROL

Lifestyle changes such as exercising and eating healthy are the first line of defense against high cholesterol. What you eat directly impacts your cholesterol level. Here are some dietary steps you can take:

CHOOSE HEALTHIER FATS

Saturated fats and trans fats raise your LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol. Common sources of saturated fat are processed meats, red meat and full-fat dairy products. Monounsaturated fat found in canola and olive oils is a better option. Other sources of healthy fat include avocados, almonds, pecans and walnuts.

AVOID TRANS FATS

Trans fats, which are often found in margarine, baked cookies, crackers and snack cakes, are particularly bad for your cholesterol level. Trans fats increase your total bad cholesterol and they also lower your good cholesterol.

LIMIT YOUR DIETARY CHOLESTEROL

Concentrated sources of cholesterol can be found in organ meats, egg yolks and whole milk products. Instead, use lean cuts of meat and skim milk and limit the intake of eggs to not more than seven weekly.

SELECT WHOLE GRAINS

Nutrients found in whole grains aid heart health. Choose whole grains and whole wheat when it comes to bread, pasta, flour and brown rice. Oatmeal and oat bran are other good choices.

STOCK UP ON FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Dietary fiber can help lower cholesterol, and fruits and vegetables are chock full of it. Snack on seasonal fruits. Experiment with vegetable-based casseroles, soups and stir-fries.

EAT HEART-HEALTHY FISH

Some fish, such as tuna, halibut and cod, have less total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol than meat and poultry. Mackerel, salmon and herring are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help promote heart health.

DRINK ALCOHOL IN MODERATION

Moderate use of alcohol can increase your levels of HDL cholesterol. If you drink, do so in moderation, which means not more than one to two drinks per day.

THE BOTTOM LINE

It is essential to have your cholesterol levels checked, especially if you have a family history of heart disease. Working to decrease your LDL bad cholesterol through proper diet, exercise, and medication can make a positive impact on your overall health.

Visit a Family Medicine Office for Comprehensive Health Care

A family medicine office is a great resource to utilize when requiring comprehensive health care. Those that struggle with serious health conditions or chronic diseases can benefit from visiting a family medicine office as it allows for the most personalized care. Additionally, because the office is focused on family medicine, the staff ensures comfort, allowing patients to have support when undergoing primary care appointments or procedures.

COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH CARE FROM A FAMILY MEDICINE OFFICE

Below is an overview of visiting a family medicine office for comprehensive health care, including what comprehensive health care is and how a family medicine office can be helpful.

COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH

Comprehensive health care is typically needed when an individual has serious health conditions that do not have an end in sight. When offered by a family medicine office, they focus on more than just physical and medical health. Instead, the family medicine physicians aim to meet all of the patient’s needs. Outlined below are a few of the aspects of comprehensive health care in family medicine.

  • Specialized care, including multiple family medicine physicians
  • Extra support from outside resources such as a social worker
  • Open-ended availability with the family medicine practice to visit as needed

Each patient has different needs, which means their comprehensive health care services may vary. However, those that visit a family medicine office should always expect their needs to be met as they navigate their way through their illness.

WHY A FAMILY MEDICINE OFFICE?

OPTIMAL HEALTH

Comprehensive health care can be involved, which is why visiting a family medicine office is a great idea. The physicians and assistants can work together to determine the necessary steps to keep everyone in the family healthy. More often than not, those that require comprehensive health care will have a very strict set of guidelines they must abide by in order to stay healthy. However, the family medicine office can provide additional resources to help encourage good health.

DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Comprehensive health care in a family medicine office is often required when the patient has a chronic disease or serious health condition. Thankfully, family medicine offices are trained to provide comprehensive primary care to patients of all ages, which means they are fully equipped to prevent diseases in healthy patients while also managing and treating existing conditions in others.

CONVENIENCE 

Another reason to visit a family medicine office for comprehensive primary care is because it is easier. When comprehensive care is involved, the family medicine office will make an effort to bring any necessary specialists into their office, instead of requiring the family to drive to multiple locations. Additionally, family members that are in good health can visit the same office for routine primary care, thus allowing for convenience.

VISIT A FAMILY MEDICINE OFFICE TODAY

Primary care is necessary for everyone, including children and the elderly. With the help of a family medicine office, patients of all ages can undergo the necessary care that they need in order to maintain a healthy life. To get started, an evaluation will be done to identify any outstanding health concerns. Reach out today to learn more!

When Should I Visit a Medical Clinic for the Flu?

If you contract the flu, you will probably experience symptoms like sore throat, a high fever, cough and pains and aches. You might not see any reason to see a doctor and instead, may decide to treat yourself with more fluids and rest. However, in some cases, seeing a doctor will help ensure faster recovery and prevent significant complications.

COMMON FLU SYMPTOMS

Certain symptoms of flu can overlap with the common cold, but they tend to occur much faster and are more severe. The common signs of the flu include:

  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Chills
  • Muscle aches
  • Fever over 100°F (38°C)
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Dry or wet cough

Patients experiencing the following symptoms need to visit the emergency room immediately:

  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Severe neck stiffness
  • Loss of consciousness

WHEN TO VISIT THE MEDICAL CLINIC

Some people are at a high risk of suffering dangerous complications related to the flu, like pneumonia or bronchitis. Such patients need to visit the medical clinic as soon as they notice the first signs of flu. Individuals considered high risk include:

  • Those age 65 or older
  • Those with a compromised immune system
  • People with a chronic medical condition (such as heart disease, asthma or diabetes)
  • Pregnant women or up to two weeks postpartum
  • Nursing home residents

Those who fit into any of the above categories may get an antiviral medication from the physician. The medications are more effective when they are used within the first 48 hours after symptoms begin—the earlier the visit to the medical clinic, the better.

For those who are not high-risk individuals and are not experiencing any of the severe symptoms, a trip to the medical clinic might not be necessary, as adequate rest and fluids should be enough. However, there are other times when one might need to visit the doctor. These include:

  • The fever improves, then suddenly aggravates
  • Symptoms do not improve after two weeks
  • One has a persistent cough that starts to produce thick mucus
  • Pain is localized in one area (like the chest, ear or sinuses)

Most people experience a full recovery from the flu in about a week. However, if one notices improvements and then the condition quickly deteriorates and fever spikes, it might be a case of flu complication. The major complications of the flu are infections of the lungs (pneumonia) or sinuses.

IN SUMMARY

If you are down with the flu and are at high risk of developing flu complications or you are worried about the condition, you should contact the medical clinic immediately to book an appointment. Getting a flu vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of getting the flu. In some cases, the doctor may recommend prescription antiviral drugs to treat the condition.

When you are going to the doctor’s office, ensure that you wear a face mask if you can. Try to wash your hands and cover your face when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of the virus.

What Makes Internal Medicine Doctors Different from Other Physicians?

Looking for information on internal medicine? Internal medicine doctors are health care professionals who perform their job a little differently when compared to other types of doctors. While the goal of every medical health care professional is to help their patients get better, this type of professional is one who tends to offer in-depth health care services to their patients.

ABOUT INTERNAL MEDICINE DOCTORS

Want to understand why people are choosing an internal medicine doctor to help them manage their particular health issues? This type of medical professional is one who can treat anything from a common cold to complex diseases. The fact they have an emphasis on preventing, diagnosing, managing and treating patients who are dealing with multiple health issues, makes them a great choice for those who have so far not been able to get the medical help they need.

Medical professionals who choose to go into internal medicine can choose to be general internists or they can choose to focus on one of the 11 sub-areas, such as gastroenterology, allergy and cardiology.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN INTERNAL MEDICINE DOCTORS AND OTHER PHYSICIANS

The list below includes facts about what makes an internal medicine doctor different from other types of physicians.

INTERNISTS DO NOT TREAT CHILDREN

The high majority of internists only provide comprehensive adult medicine services, which means they only treat patients who are at least 18 years of age. They have undergone special education and training that primarily focuses on treating adults, making them highly proficient when it comes to treating health conditions and diseases in adults. The few internists who do treat children have undergone additional training in order to be certified in pediatrics.

INTERNISTS ADDRESS COMPLEX DISORDERS AND DISEASES

An internist is a medical professional who knows how to treat complex health disorders and diseases. They are able to do so because they have undergone the in-depth training and education necessary that allows them to understand how to treat hard-to-manage health problems. They can manage more than one health problem at a time in patients and expect to treat their patients on a long-term basis.

INTERNISTS CAN CHOOSE A SUB-AREA TO FOCUS ON

General internists are internists who decide to practice general internal medicine. Internists can decide to practice in a sub-area, making them the go-to medical professional for treating health-related problems that fall within a particular sub-category. Examples of sub-areas include allergy and immunology, cardiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, geriatrics, hematology and infectious diseases.

NEED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH AN INTERNAL MEDICINE DOCTOR?

Are you dealing with a health issue and interested in making an appointment with an internal medicine doctor? If you are currently suffering from a health issue and are not getting the medical care you need, making an appointment with this type of medical professional is a great idea. We invite to contact our office today to set up an appointment in order to go over your diagnosis and treatment options.

Primary Healthcare: Six Preventive Services

Currently looking into your primary healthcare plan so you can find out what preventive health care services are available to you? The importance of preventive care should never be underrated as this is one of the most vital things you can do when it comes to managing your good health. When someone is experiencing any health issue, the sooner a doctor identifies it, the better the results will be. When any health-related issues are found in their beginning stages, they are going to be much easier to treat.

WHY IS PREVENTION SO IMPORTANT?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer and diabetes, are responsible for seven of every 10 deaths among Americans each year, of which many are largely preventable. Therefore it is so essential for everyone to make regular doctor appointments, even if they feel strong and healthy and for that reason think that they are in overall good health. It is indeed possible for someone to still feel healthy even in the beginning stages of a disease, which is why primary health care services are so essential.

Common preventive services

The following is a list of six of the more common preventive services that people are using nowadays to make sure that their general health is indeed in good shape. It is vital for all patients to understand that a primary care health provider can also provide the counseling and advice patients need to get back on their path to wellness. This counseling is especially beneficial for patients who are looking to lose weight or quit smoking.

REGULAR CHECKUPS

Also known as wellness visits, these appointments will likely catch any underlying health concerns before they turn into a serious problem.

BLOOD PRESSURE MONITORING

High blood pressure is not good for your heart, so your doctor may encourage light to moderate exercise as well as dietary changes to lower your blood pressure.

CHOLESTEROL TESTS

Like blood pressure, cholesterol is not good for the heart. Tests will determine the severity of your condition.

DIABETES

Most people see diabetes as a health concern that can cause someone to become sick after eating sugar, but this condition can have extreme consequences including loss of extremities.

CANCER SCREENINGS

These screens usually serve to find breast cancer, cervical cancer and colorectal cancer. Early detection is the key to beating this disease.

OBESITY

Your doctor will tell you if your weight and body fat levels are normal. Obesity can lead to other major concerns like heart attacks, so it is best to treat this before serious conditions form.

HAVE ANY QUESTIONS FOR US?

Have any questions about primary healthcare we can answer for you? Alternatively, do you have any questions about the preventive services we offer? If you do, know that one of our caring team members are more than happy to take your call. The more you understand how to take care of your health, the more likely you will provide yourself with good health care. It is essential for you to be well informed, and that includes learning about any of the services that can prevent serious medical conditions.

Primary Care for Chronic Illnesses

Living with a chronic illness can be extremely difficult, which is why primary care is so necessary. Primary care providers can create personalized plans for the individual so that they know what to expect and how to handle things that arise throughout their illness.

Many people attempt to manage their chronic illnesses on their own, which can be stressful, tiring and even dangerous. Instead, it is best to work closely with a primary care provider who is familiar with the illness and the patient’s health history. This can make managing the illness much easier for the individual who is suffering.

MANAGING A CHRONIC ILLNESS THROUGH PRIMARY CARE

Below is an overview of how primary care can be helpful when living with a chronic illness.

THE PROCESS

Individuals that have a chronic illness will visit their primary care provider on a regular basis. Depending on the condition, the frequency may vary from once a week to once a month. One benefit of undergoing primary care is that all health issues can be addressed at the same place, by the same provider. Primary care focuses on everything from chronic illnesses to hay fever, making it convenient if other short-term problems arise.

Certain procedures require primary care services frequently, such as blood tests, scans or screenings, all of which can be used to determine how an illness is developing or responding to treatment. Additionally, if the chronic illness induces pain or dysfunction in the individual, medications or therapy may be required on a regular basis, both of which can be administered by a primary care provider.

On the flip side, some chronic illnesses require a different type of primary care, such as recommendations on lifestyle habits. Many illnesses can be remedied through changing certain practices such as diet or exercise.

RECOMMENDATIONS

When suffering from a chronic illness, it is recommended to have support. Primary care practices can be grueling on the individual’s body and mind, which can result in being tired and stressed. Having support from a family member or friend can make things easier, especially if the illness causes pain or dysfunction.

Another recommendation that is implemented when undergoing primary care is to live a healthy lifestyle. While a healthy diet and regular exercise may not cure a chronic illness, it can definitely help with some of the symptoms. Things like COPD or asthma are said to benefit from eating a good diet, as it keeps the lungs and respiratory system healthy. Additionally, it may sound counterintuitive, but COPD or asthma sufferers should exercise lightly but regularly in order to strengthen their lungs.

LEARN MORE TODAY!

When suffering from a chronic illness, it can be helpful to have a primary care provider. Personable care can be provided, which can make the treatment process much easier. To get started, an evaluation will be done to determine what primary care practices are necessary. Reach out today to learn more or to get started.

Dermatology Options to Remove Scars

Scars can hinder anyone’s self-confidence, regardless of where they are on the body. Although there is no way to make a scar disappear completely, there are plenty of dermatology options and treatments out there that can help diminish it. Choosing the best treatment for your scar depends on the type of scar you have. In basic terms, a scar is a mark left on your skin after an injury heals.

We all have had scars — whether from an accident or from surgery, the body works to repair the wound by creating collagen (a tough fiber in your body that gives the skin strength and flexibility) to reconnect the tissues damaged by the injury. This creates a scab over the wound to protect germs from entering as the body heals. When the injured skin is healed, the scab dries up and falls off. What we have in its place, is a scar.

Dermatology is the medicinal science of diagnosing and treating skin diseases. Dermatologists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of skin diseases and have the knowledge to perform different treatment for different scars. The following are some of these treatment options.

LASER REMOVAL

For surgical scars, laser scar removal is an effective and noninvasive option. For this procedure, the dermatologist will use intense light to reduce the size, color and shape of the scar. Depending on the size and color of the scar, multiple sessions may be necessary. This is a great option for those who want to avoid any sort of surgical procedure.

SURGERY

If you are not afraid of surgical procedures, there are options available. A surgeon can reduce the size of a wide scar or take skin from another part of your body to place over the scarred area. However, keep in mind that surgery is typically the most expensive and, as a result, the last option many people opt to take when treating scars.

CHEMICAL PEELS

Chemical peels go over the area where the scarring occurs. When the peel is removed, the layer of skin is lifted away with it to reveal a smoother, cleaner layer of skin. Chemical peel treatments typically require multiple sessions and are best at removing tiny or surface-level scars. Deeper and larger scars may require other treatment options.

DERMABRASION

Dermabrasion is a machine that dermatologists use to smooth away the top layer of your skin — think of sanding your scar away. Like chemical peels, this treatment is typically used for surface-level scars or to smooth out a raised scar.

INJECTIONS

Injections are also available to help heal and patch up scars. Steroid injections and prescriptions are available to help shrink the size of a scar and make it blend evenly with the surface of your skin. There are dermal fillers and collagen that can help fill in the area around a deep scar to hide its appearance, as well.

OINTMENTS

Last but not least, ointments and over the counter scar removal creams are a good solution for minor scarring and scabbing. If these ointments prove to be ineffective, your dermatologist can prescribe more effective forms of treatment.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Although scarring can hinder your appearance, there are multiple ways to help tackle the situation. Talk to a dermatologist about the solutions that would best suit you.

Geriatric Treatment From Your Bel Air Primary Care Office

Did you know that you can get geriatric treatment here in your Bel Air primary care office? Most people may not know or realize that a doctor in the Bel Air primary care office is a great place to get geriatric treatment nor what the treatment involves.

In this article, we are going to cover the various reasons that people use the term “geriatric treatment” and what all goes into having the credentials in certain areas and ways of treatment. For people later in life, having this treatment can be vital to ensure that their health continues to be in the best shape possible.

WHAT DOES A DOCTOR KNOW TO HAVE GERIATRIC TREATMENT?

When a doctor says that they give geriatric treatment, it means that they have studied and know the best way to care for typical issues that people later in life deal with. Their primary concern and knowledge rest in the ailments that frequently happen with people who are older.

Another aspect is having the observational skills and knowledge to make determinations about a patient. One of the most common and important is to know the signs that indicate that a patient can continue to care for themselves without assistance. This can be important as a person gets older and may need extra help.

COMMON ISSUES AND PROBLEMS

We will give a brief overview of the most common problems that geriatric patients can have, which a primary care office will have the knowledge about in order to ensure their best health.

DIABETES

Diabetes is affecting more people in the United States than ever. With a growing older population, having knowledge of diabetes is important. Knowing the best treatment options and tests is important for geriatric patients.

EPILEPSY

Regarding seizures both as a medical condition and a possible side effect from medications that the patient has to take, having knowledge about epilepsy is doubly important. Knowing the best options in treatments and medications is vital, as well as staying informed of new treatments for older adults.

SLEEP DISORDERS

Geriatric patients frequently have issues with sleeping. Sleep is critical for the body, especially people later in life. Being able to correctly treat the patient and suggest the right course of action is fundamental.

LET’S GET STARTED

Do you have more questions about how a primary care office can provide geriatric treatment? Give us a call any time, and we can help in giving you the information you need to know which care and treatment are right for you.

It can be stressful not knowing what to do when you are sick or just not feeling like yourself. Luckily, your doctor has the right knowledge and expertise. We can take those worries away and go into more detail about geriatric treatment in our Bel Air primary care office. We make the process as simple and easy as possible. Give us a call today to get the answers to all your questions!

Get Important Information about Vaccinations

Since its inception, vaccinations have saved thousands upon thousands of lives every single year by preventing illnesses and disabilities in the United States alone. Vaccines help your body to fight against diseases that were once deadly such as Chicken Pox or mumps.

Vaccines play an important part in public and family health as they help prevent contagions from spreading. The first true vaccine discovered was for smallpox and helped erase the disease completely. As of right now, it is the only disease to be exterminated completely due to vaccination.

WHAT ARE VACCINATIONS?

Vaccinations, also known as immunizations, are a way to help build your body’s natural immunity to a disease. This is done by providing additional antibodies to help fight the disease or sickness so you can avoid the illness beforehand.

In its purest form, a vaccine is a weakened form of the disease germ that is injected through a shot into your body. Your body will then detect the invading germs (also known as antigens) and produces antibodies to fight them. As a result, the antibodies will stay in the body for an increased period of time.

HOW DOES IMMUNITY WORK?

But how exactly does immunity work? Your body essentially builds up a defense system to help fight foreign germs that could potentially kill or hurt you. The immune system is exposed to a multitude of germs. When it is exposed to a virus for the first time, your body will want to produce antibodies to fight against it. The bad part is, you usually will get sick in the process.

After the body adapts to the virus, the next time you are exposed to the germ, the antibodies will attack right away and you will most likely avoid the illness.

WHY VACCINATE?

Everyone needs vaccines as they can help you fight between life and death. They are recommended for infants, children, teenagers and adults and are widely accepted by most of the population. A vaccine is generally given at a younger age, to a child or infant to help them build immunity later on in life. This comes in the series of shots usually by the age of six or eight. In most cases, multiple shots can be administered at the same time to avoid hassle for the child or adult.

ARE YOU VACCINATED?

If you believe you are not vaccinated, it is crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible to discuss your options. It is important to keep in mind that some people, depending on family history or age, are not recommended for vaccination.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

There are usually no side effects to getting a vaccine besides a slight fever or mild redness around the shot area. But, these disappear quickly within a few days. It takes years for the government to pass and approve a vaccine to be safe and effective. Even after the vaccination is administered to the public, the FDA still continues to monitor its use to ensure that there are no safety issues.

IN CONCLUSION

Vaccinations serve as a powerful tool for medical prevention. They are available and helpful during most stages of life. Contact a professional near you for more information regarding vaccinations.

What are the Symptoms of Thyroid Disease?

Thyroid disease usually comes in two forms. One type of thyroid disease is hypothyroidism, which happens when the thyroid produces fewer hormones than it should. Another is hyperthyroidism, the result of an overactive thyroid. Each kind of thyroid disease has its own set of symptoms.

Because many of the symptoms of thyroid disease are present in other illnesses, the disease can easily be mistaken for something else. However, the condition often presents itself with more than one symptom, which makes this hormonal disorder a little bit easier to spot.

HOW THYROID DISEASE OCCURS

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that sits at the base of the neck, just below the voice box. It produces two hormones that are referred to as T3 and T4. The pituitary gland tells the thyroid how much of each hormone it should produce.

The hormones produced by the thyroid regulate a person’s metabolism, breathing, heart rate, body temperature, cholesterol level and in women, the menstrual cycle. When the thyroid produces too much or too little of the T3 and T4 hormones, a person will begin to exhibit certain symptoms. The more severe the thyroid disease, the more pronounced these symptoms will be.

HYPOTHYROIDISM AND ITS SYMPTOMS

This disease happens when the thyroid produces insufficient levels of hormones. The signs of hypothyroidism are:

  • Fatigue, even after a good night’s sleep. The person will also sleep whenever they can. They will have marathon sleep sessions if given the chance
  • Brain fog and/or lack of focus and concentration
  • Intolerance to cold ambient temperature
  • Symptoms of depression that do not resolve even with antidepressants
  • Weight gain or failure to lose weight, even with diet and exercise
  • Coarse, brittle and dry hair
  • Dry and scaly skin
  • Severe constipation that does not respond to treatment
  • For women, heavier, more painful periods with a shorter cycle
  • A person may also have puffy skin and bulging eyeballs

One complication of hypothyroidism in women is fertility issues that make it hard for a woman to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term.

HYPERTHYROIDISM

When the thyroid produces too much of the T3 and T4 hormones, a person will experience:

  • Insomnia and anxiety as the person tries to sleep
  • A tendency to overheat even when the ambient temperature is normal
  • Thinning or loss of hair
  • Unusual rashes
  • Irritable bowel syndrome or loose stools

Women may experience periods that are infrequent, shorter and lighter. In some cases, the periods may stop altogether. In rare cases, hyperthyroidism will present itself with low cholesterol that does not seem to be caused by exercise or diet.

GET A DIAGNOSIS AND KNOW FOR SURE

Thyroid disease can affect anyone, though it is more common in women. Its symptoms could point to other illnesses or disorders, which is why a person should get tested for thyroid disease for a definitive diagnosis. If you are experiencing some of these listed symptoms, then contact us to find out whether your thyroid is working as it should.