Health

Diabetes affects more than just the blood; it affects the entire body. By taking care of yourself daily, you can manage your diabetes and live a long and healthy life. You can control your diabetes by developing a diabetes self-care plan with the assistance of your doctor. The primary goal of Southaven diabetes management and control is to rebuild carbohydrate metabolism to normal as much as possible. To achieve this goal, people with an insulin deficiency need insulin replacement medication administered via injections or an insulin pump.

Conversely, insulin resistance can be treated with dietary changes and exercise. Since all of your internal systems are interrelated, issues in your blood can easily cause problems in other parts of your body. That is why people with diabetes are more prone to these problems:

Kidney failure

Diabetes is a primary main reason for adult kidney failure in the United States, accounting for nearly half of all new cases. Kidneys that are in good health perform various essential functions. They filter your blood, maintain fluid balance, and produce hormones that help your body control blood pressure, maintain bone health, and produce red blood cells. If you have kidney failure, your kidneys no longer perform their vital functions and keep you alive. There are usually no signs of early diabetes-related kidney disease. It can cause swelling in your legs and feet later on. Drugs that reduce blood sugar and blood pressure (even if you do not have high blood pressure) can reduce your chances of kidney failure by 33%.

Foot problems

Diabetes foot issues are severe and, if left untreated, can lead to amputation. Nerve damage can impair feeling in your feet, and high blood sugar levels can impair circulation, making it more challenging for sores and cuts to heal. That is why it is critical to notify your doctor if you notice any changes in the appearance or sensation of your feet.

Heart issues

Diabetes increases your risk of having heart disease. This is also known as cardiovascular disease (CVD) or coronary disease, and it can result in heart attacks and strokes. If you have high blood sugar levels for an extended period, even slightly elevated, your blood vessels can become damaged, resulting in severe heart complications. Your body cannot adequately use all of the sugar, so more of it sticks to your red blood cells and accumulates in your blood. This accumulation can clog and damage the blood vessels that carry blood to and from your heart, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients.

Nerve damages

According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately half of all people with diabetes have nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy. Diabetes can cause a variety of neuropathy symptoms. Peripheral neuropathy can impact your hands and arms and your feet and legs.

Gum disease and other oral health issues

An increase in sugar in your saliva can be caused by too much sugar in your blood. This introduces bacteria, which produces acid, attacks your tooth enamel, and harms your gums. Also, blood vessels in your gums can be damaged, increasing the likelihood of gum infection.

It is crucial to recall that diabetes is not a death sentence. It is a condition that can be greatly improved by making positive and healthy lifestyle choices. Call Desoto Family Care Clinic or book an appointment online to learn more about diabetes management.

A plastic surgeon is a doctor who performs surgery to improve the appearance of someone’s body. They may perform procedures such as breast augmentation, liposuction, and rhinoplasty. Plastic surgeons often work with other medical specialists to ensure that their patients receive the best possible care. If you’re considering undergoing surgery, you need to consult with a West Palm Beach plastic surgeon to understand the procedure you want and its risks. This article has gone over some essential tips to help you find an experienced plastic surgeon.

• Determine the Procedure You Want

The first step is to decide which procedure you want. There are many different procedures that plastic surgeons can perform, so you must have a clear idea of what you want before meeting with any doctors. You should research other procedures and look at before-and-after photos to get an idea of what the results could be. Once you better understand the procedure you want, you can start looking for surgeons who specialize in that particular treatment.

• Ask for Recommendations

If you know anyone who has had plastic surgery, ask them for recommendations. They may be able to put you in touch with their surgeon or give you some tips on what to look for. You can also ask your regular doctor for recommendations. In addition, you can check online forums and chat groups to see if anyone has any suggestions.

• Check Credentials and Board Certification

Once you have a list of potential surgeons, you need to start doing your research. The first thing you should do is check their credentials and board certification. You can do this by visiting the American Board of Plastic Surgery website. This organization certifies plastic surgeons who have met specific requirements and have demonstrated a high level of expertise.

• Meet with Your Candidates

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of candidates, it’s time to start meeting with them. You should schedule consultations with all of the surgeons on your list. During these consultations, you’ll have a chance to ask them questions and get a better idea of what their surgery would involve. You should also ask to see before-and-after photos of their previous patients.

• Go For Experience

When meeting with potential surgeons, be sure to ask about their experience. You want to ensure that the surgeon has plenty of experience performing the procedure you’re interested in. In addition, you should ask about their success rate and any complications that their patients have experienced.

• Get a Quote

Finally, you should get a quote from each of the surgeons on your list. This will give you a better idea of how much the surgery will cost. You should note that plastic surgeries can be quite expensive, so you need to be prepared to pay a pretty penny for the procedure you want. You should get quotes from several surgeons to ensure that you’re getting the best possible price.

In summary, if you’re considering undergoing plastic surgery, you must consult with an experienced surgeon. You should determine the procedure you want and research different surgeons before making your final decision. Be sure to ask plenty of questions and get a quote from each doctor before deciding on the right one for you.

A long-term, personal patient-provider relationship based on integrated care is the core of family medicine. These specialists are skilled in offering the most efficient healthcare by analyzing the entire body rather than just one body part. For this reason, visits to family medicine experts account for over half of annual walk-in visits amongst Americans as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Thus, whether it is for a flu shot or to maintain your blood sugar in line, there are various reasons why visiting your family care physician at Lenox Medical Clinic is a better alternative than going to the emergency room. Read on to find out more.

Understanding Family Medicine as a Holistic Practice 

A family medicine expert is a specialist who treats patients of all ages, including infants, kids, adults, and the old. As a result, they could accurately diagnose and address a wide range of disorders that affect the whole family, enabling the continuum of care and developing a positive patient-provider relationship.

Besides, family medicine encompasses such a broad range of healthcare services; hence, there is less need for extra care, which could be pricey and time-consuming. Some of the topics covered by family medicine include:

• Screening tests and regular check-ups
• Diagnosis and care for mild injuries and illnesses
• Diagnostic testing, including MRIs and CT scans
• Disease prevention, identification, and care
• Care and management of chronic diseases, including hypertension, arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease
• Some modest surgical treatments
• Immunizations and vaccinations
• Pre-surgical examinations
• Health risk evaluation
• Women’s well-being, including OB/GYN care
• Weight loss and guidance on how to live a healthy lifestyle

What Conditions Could A Family Medicine Physician Address?

Your health often determines your family physician’s visit regularity. Numerous specialists suggest getting a check-up once or twice yearly. Nevertheless, you will most likely be evaluated more frequently if you have a chronic illness like high blood pressure or diabetes. The following are some of the additional health issues that your family medicine physician could help you with:

• Asthma and allergies
• Strep throat
• Bronchitis
• Flu
• Tonsillitis
• Mild injuries, including animal bites, burns, strains, and sprains
• Whiplash
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Digestive concerns
• Back discomfort

Getting On the Road to Optimal Health

More often than not, numerous folks only see their doctor when they are sick or suspect that they may have an undetected medical concern. However, even if you are in perfect health, you should visit a family medicine specialist. These experts are well suited to monitor your family’s overall health and are well qualified to recognize when specialized care is necessary.

Your family medicine doctor will serve as your advocate for routine assessments and proactive screenings. They provide expert guidance and info on various health concerns. Additionally, they collaborate with experts to provide the best possible care while keeping their patients comfortable.

Are you looking for personalized, top-quality care for your entire family? The Family Practice & Medical Spa in Georgia can help. Certified provider Dr. Sudha Challa and her expert staff ensure that you obtain extensive care, whether you are looking for emergency or preventive care. Call the office near you or use the online scheduling tool to arrange an appointment. For your convenience, they provide walk-in visits and same-day consultations and are always delighted to respond to any concerns you might have regarding the clinic and the primary care services they offer. 

Menopause is inevitable for every woman. When you are in your early, the late 30s and early 50s, your periods will lessen and become irregular, and when you miss them for twelve consecutive months, you will have entered the menopause phase.  Although you might celebrate that you will not be dealing with menstruation, this phase of life is accompanied by several devastating symptoms. However, there is no reason to worry. The Womens Healthcare Physicians OB/GYN are compassionate and understand what you might be going through and offer the care you need. Additionally, there are several ways you can ensure you adjust better to menopause, as outlined herein. Have a look.

Improve Your Diet

As you get to menopause, it is essential to discuss how you will improve your nutritional intake with your doctor. Remember that your hormones shift during this stage, and it is easier to gain weight which comes with the new risk of health complications. But you can ensure you maintain a healthy weight during menopause by improving your diet. Generally, invest in unprocessed foods and minimize your sugar intake. Add more vegetables and fibrous foods to your diet and follow other dietary instructions your doctor will give you.

Enhance Your Bone Health through Exercise

Menopause accelerates bone loss during and after the stage. But you can counter bone loss through regular bone-strengthening exercises like tai chi, yoga, weight lifting, swimming, dance, Pilates, walking, and resistances training. Generally, you can gain more through activities by setting aside about 45 to 60 minutes of exercise three times every week. But remember that any amount of exercise is better than none, and you can start with what you can do every day and improve with the help of your physician.

Achieve a Good Sleep Habit

It is crucial to build a regular sleep pattern when you get to menopause since sleep is both healing and therapeutic. Improve the quality and quantity of sleep you get by ensuring you get to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Also, ensure you create a conducive environment to sleep by switching on electronics and using blackout curtains. Also, avoid caffeine in the evening and eat several hours before you get to bed.

Consider Hormone Replacement

The more you get old, the more natural hormones like progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen decrease. The hormonal imbalance will cause multiple symptoms present in menopause and can lower the quality of your life. Fortunately, you can consult your doctor about hormone replacement treatments to restore your hormonal balance. Your provider might recommend the bioidentical hormone replacement therapy where your depleted hormones are replaced with perfectly matching hormones delivered as injections, pills, implants, lotions, or creams.

Avoid Smoking and Taking Alcohol

Although you might think you feel some stress relief when you get a drink or smoke, these habits jeopardize your overall health and worsen some of your menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes. Cut back your alcohol intake and cease smoking to promote your health and avoid worsening symptoms. Consult your doctor for counseling if you need help quitting the behaviors since it might not be easier for you if you are addicted.

If you are around or you have already entered menopause, learning better ways to adapt to the phase of life can improve the quality of your life. You can minimize the symptoms and get relief through lifestyle adjustments and specialized care. Reach out to the menopause specialists at Women’s Healthcare Physicians of Naples for more information.

Your dental health is an integral part of your overall health. Poor dental health can lead to heart disease, stroke, and even diabetes. And while many people often brush and floss as needed, they often forget one crucial aspect of maintaining good dental health; visiting a dentist. A general dentist can help you maintain your oral health through routine checkups and cleaning and identify and treat any dental issues you may have. If you are looking for a general dentist Bala Cynwyd, several things to keep in mind. Here are some tips on how you can handle your search.

• Get Referrals

If you have dental insurance, your first step should be to check with your insurer to see if they have a list of in-network providers. If you do not have dental insurance, or if your dental insurance does not have a list of in-network providers, you can ask your family and friends for referrals. When asking for referrals, be sure to ask about their experiences with the dentist, such as how often they have been seen, what type of work they have had done, and whether or not they would recommend the dentist to others.

• Do Your Research

Once you have a list of potential dentists, the next step is to do your research. Start by visiting the websites of the dentists on your list. Most general dentist websites will have information about the dentist’s background, education, and practice areas. They will also likely have a photo gallery of the dentist’s work. You can also check online reviews to get an idea of what other patients have said about their experiences with the dentist.

• Schedule a Consultation

After you have narrowed down your list of potential dentists, the next step is to schedule a consultation. This will allow you to meet with the dentist and discuss your dental health needs. It is essential to ask questions during your consultation, such as how often you should visit the dentist, what work you can expect to have done, and how much the work will cost.

• Get a Second Opinion

If you are still unsure which dentist to choose, you can always get a second opinion. This is especially important if you consider a major procedure, such as a root canal or dental implant. Getting a second opinion will give you peace of mind and help you make the best decision for your dental health.

• Check Certification

When looking for a general dentist, it is essential to check certification. All dentists must be licensed in the state where they practice, but not all dentists are certified by the American Dental Association (ADA). The ADA is the nation’s largest dental organization, and its certification signifies that the dentist has met the organization’s rigorous standards of care.

To summarize, finding a general dentist comes with its own set of challenges. However, you can make it more manageable by checking with your insurer, asking for referrals, doing your research, and scheduling a consultation. You should also get a second opinion if you are unsure about a procedure and check the dentist’s certification. Following these tips will help you find the best general dentist for your needs.

Meniscus tears are popular in contact (football) and non-contact sports (volleyball and soccer). They can happen when an individual abruptly changes direction while running, and they frequently happen in conjunction with other knee issues, like an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Meniscus tears are particularly dangerous for older athletes because the meniscus weakens with age. They are present in more than 40% of people aged 65 and up. Your West Chester orthopedic surgeon will perform a comprehensive exam to identify a meniscus tear.

1. Loss of knee motion

The term “knee loss of motion” refers to the patient’s inability to fully bend or straighten the knee, particularly when compared to the opposite knee. It can be caused by various pathological conditions within the knee (such as osteoarthritis, weakness of muscles surrounding the knee.

2. Knee-lock

There is nothing more troubling to a doctor assessing a patient with a meniscus tear than a locked knee. This could mean that the meniscus tear has grown large enough to get caught between the femur and the tibia, preventing further knee motion. Suppose the knee is still locked at the time of assessment; a surgeon may be able to “unlock” it in the clinic using special maneuvers to re-establish knee motion until the meniscus tear can be resolved surgically. If this is not possible, immediate surgery (within a few days) is usually required to restore knee motion.

3. Current injuries

If your knee felt fine before suffering an injury (typically a twisting-type injury with the foot planted), this could signify a meniscus tear.

4. Swelling of the knee

Consider swelling in the knee as if a tiny pebble had landed in your eye. A meniscus tear causes the knee to swell in the same way that gravel irritates the eye, causing it to become red and tear. This is particularly true if the swelling occurs during physical activity.

5. Knee ache

Many orthopedic specialists are trained to identify different types of knee pain and to relate the pain with the liable injured structure in the knee. In the event of a meniscus tear, the pain will be felt along the joint line (where the two bones of the knee, the femur, and tibia, come together). The pain will be on the inside or outside of the knee. Unfortunately, this type of pain is also linked to knee arthritis. Therefore, it is critical to obtain x-rays to determine the extent of arthritis in the knee.

6. Clicking or popping within the knee

When the meniscus tears, it becomes a foreign body inside the knee and may obstruct joint motion. If the meniscus becomes tangled between the two bones of the knee, it can cause an audible click or pop, which can be excruciatingly painful.

Loss of motion in a meniscus tear is generally caused by either swelling within the knee or the inability to properly bend or extend the knee due to the meniscus getting in the way of knee motion. Call Ronald Hess, MS, DO or book a meeting online to learn more about meniscus tear treatments.

When it comes to women’s health, a few procedures stand out as being particularly essential. For many women, including Manassas, Virginia, one of the most important procedures is a hysterectomy. But what makes this surgery so crucial? Let’s explore why a hysterectomy is often an ideal procedure to turn to. Specialists, however, do proper planning for the process to proceed smoothly. Consider finding the best hysterectomy Manassas specialist. When is the key to the treatment?

Gynecological Cancer

One of the most common reasons why a woman may need to have a hysterectomy is because she has gynecological cancer. Gynecological cancer can include cancers of the ovaries, uterus, cervix, and vagina. 

If these cancers are left untreated, they can quickly become life-threatening. A hysterectomy is the best way to treat gynecological cancer in many cases. A hysterectomy can prevent cancer from spreading and save a woman’s life by removing the cancerous tissues.

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that can develop in the uterus. Fibroids are very common, and most women will develop them at some point in their lives. In most cases, fibroids do not cause any problems and do not require treatment. 

However, fibroids can cause pain, bleeding, and other issues in some cases. If fibroids are causing problems, a hysterectomy may be recommended. By removing the uterus, the fibroids will too.

Abnormal Bleeding

Abnormal bleeding is another common reason a woman may need to have a hysterectomy. Irregular bleeding can result from several problems, including uterine fibroids, polyps, and cancer. If abnormal bleeding is causing problems for the woman, a hysterectomy may be key to stopping the bleeding.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition that occurs when tissue that usually lines the inside of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. It can cause pain, inflammation, and infertility. In severe cases, surgery may be crucial for removing the endometrial tissue. A hysterectomy is one of the most common surgeries used to treat endometriosis.

Uterine Prolapse

Uterine prolapse is a condition that occurs when the uterus slips out of its normal position. It can cause pain, discomfort, and other problems. In some cases, surgery may be recommendable to correct the problem. A hysterectomy is one of the most common surgeries to treat uterine prolapse.

Endometrial Hyperplasia

Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition that occurs when the endometrium, the lining of the uterus, thickens. It can lead to abnormal bleeding. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove the thickened endometrium. A hysterectomy is one of the most common surgeries to treat endometrial hyperplasia.

Severe Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the reproductive organs. In severe cases, PID can cause scarring and damage to the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and other organs. If PID is causing severe problems, surgery may be recommended. A hysterectomy is one of the most common surgeries used to treat PID.

So, as you can see, there are many different reasons why a woman may need to have a hysterectomy. If you are experiencing problems with your reproductive health, it is essential to talk to your doctor. They may recommend a hysterectomy to treat the issue.

One has to undergo a specialized training program with a primary focus on prenatal health, postpartum care, and postnatal care to qualify as an OBGYN specialist. Your Marion obstetrics and gynecology professionals are board-certified to solve any women’s health issues you may be having, such as infertility and pelvic discomfort.

Find an OBGYN with reliable expertise and the capability to make you feel safe and comfortable. Below are the tips that can make you settle for the best obstetrics-gynecology specialist.

Check reviews and request recommendations.

There is a high chance that if you ask your friends or family, especially your mother or sister, you will get the right doctor. Be sure to ask why the person recommends the gynecologist, considering the experience and skill level.

Then, research online to find more information about the recommended healthcare provider, like scheduling appointments and the clinic’s years of practice and rating. Familiarize yourself with feedback from clients regarding the service’s trustworthiness and services provided.

You may also check if the OBGYN has specialties and affiliations to hospitals.

The level of access provided.

Often, OBGYN specialists operate during the standard working hours throughout the week. If the working hours do not offer you the right level of flexibility and convenience, you may need to choose a doctor who operates outside the working hours. For example, irregular working hours are during the weekend and evenings.

Some OBGYN practices offer an online portal for communication with patients. Other doctors may allow phone communication and even provide telemedicine. For instance, if you are experiencing an unusual discharge, your doctor may remotely diagnose the cause and prescribe treatment.

Gender of the specialist.

Since you need to discuss personal information regarding reproductive health and mental health freely, the gender of the Ob/Gyn must make you feel safe and comfortable. Expect that if you are dealing with a specialist of the opposite gender, you may feel awkward or not feel open to discussing your health concerns.

However, seize the opportunity to benefit from specialist care without getting too concerned about the gender of the doctor.

Consider the style of communication.

The manner an OBGYN specialist communicates can make you feel comfortable or not. During your first contact with a doctor, ask any questions and see the manner of response.

Ask yourself if the gynecologist makes you feel comfortable in their presence and level of knowledge. And ensure communication is straightforward.

Consider your medical history.

If you are dealing with a chronic health problem, like high blood pressure, or have had pregnancy complications before, you require specialized care. Thus, choose a specialist providing high-risk gynecologic and obstetric care.

A perinatologist specializes in taking care of a patient with a high-risk pregnancy.

Consider your insurance policy.

Seeing a specialist is expensive, mainly if your insurance does not cover the cost. Examine your cover, see the benefits, and ensure the clinic you are to use is part of your network of health care providers.

Contact Marion Ob/Gyn Inc. today if you have any obstetrics and gynecologic concerns. 

The human body has an incredible ability to heal, yet numerous individuals find it very hard to realize this potential due to their modern living. Acupuncture, an ancient treatment founded in Chinese medicine’s ancestral science, aids in promoting that innate healing capacity. By harmonizing the mind, spirit, and body and re-establishing general energy equilibrium, acupuncture assists you in attaining optimal wellbeing without medicine or intrusive medical treatments. Check out this post to learn more about Schaumburg acupuncture and, most importantly, the benefits of this therapy.

What Is Acupuncture and How Does It Work?

Acupuncture is a treatment that involves inserting very tiny needles into the skin to assist a patient’s energy to flow more smoothly. The needles are driven into the patient’s body at certain points that correspond to energy points. As a result, this activates the body’s innate healing processes, assisting in restoring physical and mental balance.

Understanding Acupuncture’s Philosophical Underpinnings

Conventional acupuncture is based on the notion that the body is governed by a flow of energy defined as qi (pronounced ‘chee’) that flows along routes known as meridians. Numerous diseases, according to acupuncturists, are caused by blockages or issues in the passage of energy through these meridians. Stress, hormones, trauma, toxins, and even the foods you consume could interfere with qi flow.

Although some professionals continue to practice qi according to its original concept, others have begun to incorporate a more integrated model based on research and western medical concepts. Numerous modern acupuncturists, for instance, see acupuncture sites as locations where nerves are stimulated, energizing the body’s healing and pain-relieving mechanisms.

Why Should You Consider Acupuncture? – 4 Major Benefits

1. Reduced Side Effects

Acupuncture is a natural treatment; hence, there are fewer adverse effects to be concerned about than with pharmaceuticals or other standard treatments. You may have some bruising and discomfort where the acupuncture needles are put, but most individuals report no negative side effects after undergoing care. Reduced adverse effects of this treatment is beneficial not just to youngsters but also to adults.

2. It Is Possible to Integrate It with Other Therapies

Acupuncture is quite easy to match with other treatments because it does not require drugs. Actually, numerous individuals discover that incorporating acupuncture into their current care plan alleviates a wide range of symptoms and concerns. Never substitute your physician’s recommendations with acupuncture, but it is worthy of consideration in your overall treatment plan.

3. It Is Beneficial for Pain

One of the most appealing aspects of acupuncture is its ability to relieve pain linked to various medical concerns. Whether your pain is caused by anxiety and stress or stemming from other issues like fibromyalgia, dental issues, ulcers, cancer, headaches, etc., acupuncture can help. Furthermore, it is an excellent choice for those unable to tolerate typical pain management approaches such as drugs.

4. Treats Numerous Concerns Simultaneously

Acupuncture’s ability to treat numerous ailments simultaneously is one of the things that makes it so popular. It provides relief for various symptoms associated with numerous health concerns. For instance, you will undoubtedly feel less stressed when utilizing acupuncture for your anxiety. Still, you might also observe a relaxation of tightly packed muscles, reduced headaches, a greater general sense of wellness, and improved sleep quality. Numerous persons also note that acupuncture enhances their skin’s appearance, even if it is not the primary reason for therapy.

Most people are aware of the remarkable results of acupuncture on chronic pain relief and improved life quality in persons struggling with various musculoskeletal concerns. However, this ancient therapeutic practice has a slew of other emotional, mental, and physical advantages that few people are aware of. Dr. Ryan Vaughn and his staff at Exhale Sinus and Facial Pain Center provide comprehensive acupuncture care with other traditional Western medicine practices. To explore the benefits of acupuncture and what it can do for you, call the office near you or book an appointment online right away.