Not only is it the holiday season, but it is also flu season. The best way to reduce your risk from the seasonal flu and any potential complications is to get vaccinated every year. This year National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) takes place from December 5-9. The designated week was created by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create awareness in communities across the country and highlight the importance of vaccination. They chose the last month of the year to remind people that it’s never too late to get a flu vaccine.

Who is at Risk?

Certain individuals are at a higher risk than others for contracting the virus and developing flu-related complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia that can lead to hospitalization or even death. Anyone in this high-risk category should get vaccinated as well as those taking care of them. Those at high risk include:

• People 65 years of age and older
• People of any age with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma
• Pregnant women
• Babies and children younger than 5 years old
• People living in facilities such as nursing and assisted-living homes
• Health care workers
• Caregivers to those under 5 years old and older than 65 years old

It’s Easy as ABC – Simple Tips and Tricks to Protect Yourself and Others

• Avoid close contact, touching, and any exposure to those who are sick and keep your distance from others if you are not feeling well or are sick. Surfaces can be contaminated with germs so do not touch your eyes, nose, and mouth without washing your hands.
• Be Absent – Stay home if you are not feeling well, please stay home to help prevent the spread of germs to others.
• Cover Your Mouth and Nose & Clean Your Hands – Flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets created when people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk. Washing hands often will help protect you from germs. Soap and water are preferred, but an alcohol-based hand sanitizer will also do the trick.
• Disinfect – Wipe frequently touched surfaces and areas with products specifically designed to prevent germ contamination especially when someone is ill.

Managing stress, exercising, sleeping, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating a nutrient-rich diet along with being proactive and mindful is the perfect prescription for a healthy and happy life. A routine of these good health habits will help protect you and your loved ones.

Jupiter Medical Specialists are here to make your healthcare journey simple and bring further awareness to the community. Contact us today at (561)972-5709 to get your flu shot!

December is the biggest gift-giving month of the year. Everyone wants to find and give a great gift. But besides searching for the perfect present for your little ones, it is just as important to keep safety in mind while you’re shopping.

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in 2020 there were 9 deaths and nearly 150,000 toy-related emergency room visits for children ages 14 and younger. Most of the injuries and deaths were associated with choking hazards, mostly because of small toy parts. Although toy safety has improved throughout the years, shoppers should still take precautions to keep children safe.

In recent years, the CPSC has implemented a stringent standards system that requires a third party to independently test toy safety in laboratories across the globe. This includes enforcing the percentage of lead and phthalates used in toys and stopping dangerous and violent toys at the ports and in the marketplace before they end up in little hands.

Safety Tips to Keep in Mind

• Inspect toys before purchasing them. Avoid toys with sharp edges, a multitude of little parts, and/or parts such as buttons that can be easily pulled off which become choking hazards.
• Look at the age and skill level marked on the packaging. Only buy age-appropriate even if you think a child is more mature. The guidelines are placed for good reason.
• Check the label. All toys should have an American Society for Testing and Materials (ATSM) to show it meets proper standards.
• Avoid all toys that with ropes and cords as well as crayons and markers unless they are labeled nontoxic. Other toys to avoid with children younger than eight years old are balloons which can choke or suffocate. This also includes deflated balloons which should be immediately discarded. High-powered magnet sets should always be kept away from small children too.
• Be wary of electric toys. These require close supervision.
• Give safety gear like helmets and knee pads if you are giving a bicycle, skateboard, or scooter.

It’s a Wrap

Upon opening gifts, immediately discard all plastic wrapping and any other toy packaging which can become dangerous playthings if not thrown away. Any toys requiring battery charging should be supervised and done by a trusted adult as chargers and adapters can pose thermal burn hazards.

It’s easy to get swept up in the magic of the holidays, but the gift of safety ensures a happy and healthy holiday season. Jupiter Medical Specialists wish you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday and a happy new year.

Jupiter Medical Specialists are here to make your healthcare journey simple and bring further awareness to the community. Contact us today at (561)972-5709 to schedule a consultation.

Hypothyroidism is one of the most common thyroid problems, making people feel sluggish because the body does not produce enough energy. Here are some signs that you may have this issue.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms

When the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, that leads to hypothyroidism. Symptoms of this issue typically appear gradually, over a period of several months or even years. They include thinning, coarse hair, skin that has a yellowish tint, brittle nails and slow body movements. People who had thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism also tend to have an inability to tolerate cold, feel weak, sluggish, or tired on a regular basis, and are also susceptible to memory problems or even depression.

There are several other less common symptoms as well, including muscle cramps and aching muscles, hoarseness, unexpected weight gain, swelling of the extremities and puffiness of the face. Like many thyroid problems, the severity of your symptoms will depend on several factors, including how long you have had the problem, your age, and others.

Treatments for Hypothyroidism

As serious as hypothyroidism can be, the good news is that it can be treated very effectively using hormonal medications. Once you start your treatment, you will need to visit your doctor on a regular basis to make sure you are being prescribed the correct amount. In many cases, symptoms will begin to subside within about a week or so after you start treatment, and then disappear altogether within a few months. People who are older or in poor health may not respond to medication as quickly.

If you would like more information on hypothyroidism or any other types of thyroid problems, please get in touch with one of our Jupiter Medical Specialists Clinics. Contact your nearest location online to make an appointment today!

National Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Awareness Week takes place every year right before November’s signature holiday – when many Americans may experience heartburn associated with overeating. This disorder is so common that 23 years ago, the designated week was created to bring attention and help educate the public. Raising awareness can improve patient care, promote research, and impact positive outcomes.

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where contents in the stomach flow back (reflux) into the esophagus (food tube) causing troublesome symptoms and/or possible damage to the esophagus. GERD is a chronic disease for which long-term medical therapy is usually effective. No single cause is known as to why this happens as reflux occurs when the muscle barrier between the stomach and the esophagus does not work properly.

Signs & Symptoms of GERD

The most common symptom of GERD is frequent heartburn followed by reflux (the rush of fluid into the mouth). Other less common symptoms may be painful swallowing, a constant clearing of the throat, a sensation of food stuck in the esophagus, a scratchy voice, a chronic cough, wheezing, and/or a sore throat.

Treatment

Individuals with GERD need to be prepared for long-term treatment. Options may include lifestyle changes, medications, surgery, or a combination of approaches all with a common goal. A simple change in foods eaten or medications taken can help tremendously. The goals are to reduce the symptoms, heal an injured esophagus, and manage or prevent complications.

Over-the-counter medications are just temporary fixes for quick relief so your trusted physician needs to know how often one uses these types of medicines. They may prescribe a more powerful medication that reduces or limits acid secretion in the stomach. As always, the last resort is surgery. Surgery can strengthen the barrier between the stomach and esophagus

Only a doctor can make a diagnosis of GERD based on the patient’s signs and symptoms. Certain tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis. It is important to fully disclose all your signs and symptoms to your doctor so the appropriate treatment can be administered.

Jupiter Medical Specialists are here to make your healthcare journey simple and bring further awareness to the community. Contact us today at (561)972-5709 to schedule a consultation.

According to the American Diabetes Association, more than 34 million Americans are living with diabetes. Among those who have died from COVID-19, 40% had the disease. Diabetes does not discriminate either. It can affect anyone regardless of age, race, and gender in any zip code and income bracket. November is the designated month to speak up and create awareness and fight for expanded diabetes testing.

What is Type 1 Diabetes?

Those diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes have a pancreas that does not produce insulin. The body breaks down the carbohydrates one eats into blood sugar (blood glucose) that it uses for energy. These individuals must monitor their blood sugar throughout the day and administer multiple daily insulin injections with a pen, a syringe, or a pump. Finding and learning ways to manage blood sugar levels through diet and exercise will help in maintaining and living a normal and healthy life.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is the most common and it means that your body doesn’t use insulin properly. To use glucose as energy, the body needs insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not make enough insulin or if it does not use it well. Therefore, the body’s cells cannot use glucose for the energy it needs. If glucose stays in the blood, other serious problems can arise. Some individuals can control their blood sugar levels with a healthy diet and exercise regimen, while others may need medication or insulin to help manage it.

Diabetes Symptoms

Individuals with Type 1 diabetes typically have the onset of sudden symptoms, while those with Type 2 have no signs at all or a more gradual occurrence. Some common symptoms are:

• Urinating often
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Excessive Thirst or hunger (even when you’ve eaten)
• Weight loss (Type 1)
• Tingling, pain, or numbness in the extremities (Type 2)

This month is dedicated to becoming educated and aware of diabetes and finding the proper balance of nutrition and physical activity. Making healthy choices and taking steps to manage diabetes can ensure a happier and healthier life.

Jupiter Medical Specialists are here to make your healthcare journey simple and bring further awareness to the community. Contact us today at (561)972-5709 to schedule a consultation.