Common Symptoms of a Sinus Infection

by Leave a Comment

If you have ever had a sinus infection (also known as sinusitis), you know how painful this condition can be. It typically results in swollen, inflamed nasal cavities and can last for a long time. Here is some information on common symptoms associated with this issue and when you may need to see a doctor.

Sinus Infection Causes

In most instances, a sinus infection will be caused by some sort of virus. However, there are some cases where allergies, nasal polyps, a deviated septum and even a tooth infection can trigger sinusitis. If the infection clears up relatively quickly it is known as acute sinusitis. If it lasts for two months or more, it is called chronic sinusitis.

Sinus Infection Symptoms To Look Out For

The most common symptom of a sinus infection is pain. There are several different sinuses located both above and below the eyes, any of which can hurt a great deal if an infection sets in. Many people feel pain on one side of the nose, in the forehead, between the eyes or in the teeth and upper jaws. But as bad as the pain may be, the nasal discharge that typically accompanies sinusitis is also no fun. You may have to blow your nose a great deal to get rid of the greenish-yellow discharge coming from your infected sinuses.

These are just a few of the common symptoms. Others include a sore throat, cough, headache and earache.

When to Visit a Doctor

In most instances, a sinus infection will eventually clear up on its own. However, there are other times where medical attention may be necessary. If your infection has lasted for more than 10 days and keeps returning, or if you have a fever along with sinus issues, please see your doctor so he or she can treat the problem properly. There may also be some underlying condition causing the infection that needs to be addressed.

Get in touch with your nearest Jupiter Medical Specialists Clinic location if you or a loved one is suffering from a sinus infection. Contact us online to schedule an appointment or to learn more about how we can help.

How to Protect Yourself from UV Rays

by Leave a Comment

With July being UV Safety Month, this is a good time to provide some tips that can help protect you from ultraviolet (UV) rays and minimize your chances of developing skin cancer. You do not need to avoid the sun completely, of course, but be smart when you are outside. Not only will you reduce your UV risk, you will also lower the chances of suffering a severe sunburn that may necessitate a trip to your nearest emergency medical center.

Shade is a Good Thing

UV rays are typically at their peak between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to avoid being in direct sunlight during those hours. One way of telling how strong the sun’s rays are is by using what is known as the “shadow test.” The rays of the sun are at their strongest when you are taller than your shadow.

Wear the Right Clothing

Even though it may seem like it would be too hot to cover yourself properly while outside during the summer, you need to wear as much clothing as you can to cover your skin. Different clothes will provide you with different levels of protection from UV rays. For example, dark-colored clothing will protect you better than light-colored clothes. Fabrics that are tightly woven are more protective than those that are loosely woven.

Choose Your Sunscreen Wisely

The best defense against UV rays, of course, is sunscreen. But you cannot simply grab the first bottle or can off the shelf and assume you will get the right protection. You need to find products that offer protection against both UVA rays and UVB rays, and have an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30.

In addition, if you go for a swim or participate in an activity where you will sweat a lot, you need to re-apply your sunscreen when you get out of the water or dry off. There is no such thing as a “sweat-proof” or “waterproof” sunscreen. In fact, manufacturers are no longer allowed to put those terms on their labeling.

If you would like more information on protecting yourself from UV rays, or you have a medical condition that requires immediate attention, contact your nearest Jupiter Medical Specialists Clinic location. One of our skilled staff members will be ready to help.

Reducing Your Risk for Osteoporosis

by Leave a Comment

Osteoporosis is, unfortunately, an all-too-common problem in the U.S., with an estimated 10 million sufferers. What is even worse is that as many as 34 million people, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, have low bone density – a major factor in determining whether someone is at risk of developing the condition. Here is some information that could help you reduce your chances of becoming one of these statistics.

Make the Right Choices

There are ways that you can either substantially lower your risk of getting osteoporosis or possibly even prevent it altogether. By implementing some healthy lifestyle changes, you could substantially impact the strength and overall health of your bones and minimize your osteoporosis risk later in life. These are some of them.

  • Boost your intake of calcium and vitamin D – Both calcium and vitamin D are vital to the health of your bones. Consider taking daily supplements to ensure you get the proper amount of both nutrients – after talking to your doctor to make sure he or she recommends doing so.
  • Get active – There are several different types of exercises that can significantly strengthen your bones, especially weight-bearing exercises such as jumping rope, walking, running, yoga, aerobics and others. Anything that requires your bones to support your body weight will help.
  • Change your diet – While vitamin D and calcium – as well as magnesium – are vital, it is just as important that your diet help provide the energy you need to stay active. For example, if your diet is high in caffeine and salt, that could play a role in causing bone loss and, ultimately, osteoporosis. You will also want to maintain the ideal weight for your body type. It is important that you are neither overweight nor underweight.

Contact Us About Osteoporosis

These are just a few of the things you can do to lower your chances of developing osteoporosis. If you would like more information or you need treatment for this condition, get in touch with your nearest Jupiter Medical Specialists location.

Tips to Lower High Cholesterol

by Leave a Comment

Cholesterol levels often rise as we get older, potentially leading to clogged arteries that can lead to devastating consequences. If you have not had your cholesterol checked lately, make an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible. If you have been checked and your test showed you have high cholesterol, there are several steps you can take to lower your level and help ensure your heart is healthy.

Medications to Control High Cholesterol

You may be prescribed medication to lower your cholesterol level if your doctor determines you are at a high risk of developing cardiovascular problems. Statins are some of the most commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs, often lowering cholesterol by anywhere from 20-50 percent. Other medications include bile acid, resins, fibrates and niacin.

Exercise

There are two types of cholesterol. LDL (low-density lipoprotein), or “bad” cholesterol, can lead to the accumulation of plaque in the walls of your arteries. HDL (high-density lipoprotein), or “good” cholesterol, travels through the bloodstream and removes LDL cholesterol, reducing a person’s risk for developing heart disease. By exercising on a regular basis, you can lower LDL levels and raise HDL levels by as much as 10 percent. If you can exercise on at least a moderate basis – such as taking a brisk, 45-minute walk each day – you can go a long way toward improving your health. People who work at a desk should try to walk around for about five minutes an hour if possible. Think about buying a pedometer, which tracks the number of steps you take, and aim for 10,000 steps per day.

Stay Away from Saturated Fat

One of the main culprits that raises LDL cholesterol levels is saturated fat. Try to cut back on meat and eat more fish, and consider substituting items such as canola or olive oil for butter, vegetable oil, shortening or lard when cooking. It is also very important to read your food labels to check the amount of fat on each serving. By doing so, it will help you keep track of the amount of fat you are consuming and make adjustments to your portion if needed. These are just a few of the ways you can fight high cholesterol and keep yourself healthy. If you would like to schedule an appointment for a cholesterol screening, contact one of our locations.

Know the Warning Signs of Pneumonia

by Leave a Comment

Pneumonia is a very serious infection of the lungs that can result in a high fever, coughing, and difficulty taking a breath. While many people can successfully treat this problem at home (with a recovery time that normally takes about 2-3 weeks), emergency medical attention will be required in some instances. Here is how to spot the signs of pneumonia so you can take the fast action necessary to avoid potentially serious complications.

Symptoms

Pneumonia symptoms often appear suddenly, typically after someone has the cold, flu or another type of upper respiratory infection. These often include:

  • Chills and shaking
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting and nausea

Children often display varied symptoms depending on their age. For example, an infant may seem lethargic, grunt regularly or have a fever.

Getting Medical Help

If you have any reason to suspect that you or someone in your household has pneumonia, it is extremely important to get medical help as soon as possible. The faster treatment starts, the faster someone can recover from the condition. It is even more critical for young children, the elderly and those with asthma and other chronic health problems to see a doctor quickly. Emergency medical assistance will be needed if any of the following occur:

  • Severe breathing problems
  • Coughing up blood
  • A feeling that you may faint if you try to stand or even sit up
  • Chills accompanied by a fever
  • Chest pains that increase in intensity

Jupiter Medical Specialists are here to make your healthcare journey simple. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month

by Leave a Comment

According to the National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC), nearly 13,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually. However, cervical cancer is highly treatable and preventable through regular medical screenings and vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV).

What is HPV?

HPV is a virus. Multiple strains of HPV exist, with high-risk types that are closely associated with most cervical cancers and low-risk types that cause genital warts. Vaccination against HPV can prevent most cases of cervical cancer if administered before one is exposed to the virus.

Who Should Receive an HPV Vaccination?

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that boys and girls be vaccinated for HPV at ages 11-12. While the vaccine is available for anyone through age 45, anyone age 15 or older must receive three doses as opposed to the two-dose series that is available for those younger than 15 years of age.

Should I Get Screened?

While advanced cervical cancer may cause bleeding or discharge from the vagina that is not normal for you, such as bleeding after sex, it is vital to note that early-stage cervical cancer may not cause symptoms. As such, regular screening is crucial for prevention of cervical cancer.

According to the NCCC, a Pap test can identify HPV-linked changes to the cervical cells while HPV tests locate the virus itself. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that anyone age 25-65 receive a primary HPV test once every 5 years; if a primary HPV test is unavailable, a Pap test performed every 3 years is sufficient.

Our Primary Care providers can answer your medical questions and guide you to the right specialist.

Our Radiation Oncology Specialists use the latest technology to treat cervical cancers including the High Dose Rate Brachytherapy System (HDR). This technology uses a computer-controlled radioactive source for rapid delivery of pinpoint doses of radiation, limiting radiation exposure to normal tissues. We use this to treat many gynecologic cancers including cervical and endometrial cancers. For the appropriate patient this can shorten treatment times from the traditional six or seven weeks to just five days.

Shared Content are here to make your healthcare journey simple. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

January is Thyroid Awareness Month

by Leave a Comment

What is the Thyroid?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck, and while it may be small, it produces a hormone that supports the function of your body’s most important organs.

What Do I Need to Know About Thyroid Disease?

According to the American Thyroid Association, diseases of the thyroid affect approximately 20 million Americans, and nearly 60 percent of them are unaware they have a thyroid condition.

The symptoms of thyroid disease include weight fluctuations, pronounced mood changes or difficulty sleeping. While each of these symptoms may be frustrating and potentially mild on their own, taken together, these symptoms can drastically affect a person’s quality of life.

Further, because the thyroid produces a hormone that affects the function of every organ in the body, untreated thyroid disease can lead to more serious conditions, including cardiovascular disease, infertility problems and osteoporosis.

Thyroid Disease Symptoms

Symptoms of thyroid disease can vary from person to person. They also vary depending on whether your thyroid is overactive or underactive. Some common symptoms of thyroid disease include:

  • Increased anxiety, irritability or nervousness
  • Fatigue
  • Weight fluctuations
  • Muscle weakness
  • Vision problems or eye irritation
  • Forgetfulness
  • Fluctuations in menstrual cycle frequency and heaviness

What Should I Do?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, you may be suffering from an irregular thyroid. Proper diagnosis is the first step to living a happier, healthier life, so discussing your symptoms with your primary care provider is vital.

The American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE) provides a list of ten questions that can help you navigate this important conversation with your doctor: http://www.thyroidawareness.com/ten_questions_to_ask_about_your_thyroid_health.

Thyroid Disease Fast Facts*

  • The causes of thyroid problems are largely unknown.
  • Pregnant women with undertreated hypothyroidism have an increased risk of miscarriage, preterm delivery and severe developmental problems in their children.
  • While most thyroid diseases are life-long conditions, most are also manageable with medical attention.

* According to AACE: https//www.thyroid.org/media-main/press-room

If you are experiencing the symptoms of this disease, Shared Content can help diagnose and treat your thyroid condition. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

National Influenza Vaccination Week

by Leave a Comment

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 5-11. 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.

Shared Content are here to make your healthcare journey simple and bring further awareness to the community. Contact us today to get your flu shot!

December is Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month

by Leave a Comment

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. Shared Content wish you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday and a happy new year.

Shared Content are here to make your healthcare journey simple and bring further awareness to the community. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Happy National Primary Care Physician’s Week – October 4-10

by Leave a Comment

Although healthcare is essential year-round, the first week in October is dedicated to celebrating our primary care providers and highlighting the importance of their services. Not only is it a time for patients to express their gratitude, but for healthcare professionals to also celebrate each other and their accomplishments.

During “National Primary Care Physician’s Week”, physicians from around the corner and across the country are encouraged to come together to focus on improving care for their patients while learning new techniques and approaches from their like-minded colleagues.

Primary Care Physicians (PCP) are the first resource for good health. These are the first responders to a common cold, a milestone moment, and oftentimes a critical illness. These PCPs are typically found in a family or general practice but may also be a pediatrician, gynecologist, or internist. These physicians can perform routine health exams and screenings, treat and monitor illnesses and chronic conditions while prescribing and managing medications. They also can coordinate and consult with specialists if needed.

Many patients visit and rely on the same primary care physician for years. Those that have the advantage to spend decades with the same practice benefit from a trusted relationship on both sides. These PCP’s learn and become familiar with their patient’s family history, lifestyle, and personal needs. This makes them a crucial component and advocate of helping their patients obtain and maintain a healthy and happy life.

In the United States, more family physicians are practicing primary care than any other specialty. Many underserved communities depend on their family doctors as a lifeline. Family medicine is at the center of each community; It is at the heart of it all since everyone needs a family doctor.

Take time to show your gratitude to your PCP and give a shout-out to a physician who provided outstanding care. It’s also important not to forget the office staff who also work diligently to assist patients by scheduling appointments, handling insurance issues, calling in prescriptions, and so much more.

If you need a primary care physician, Shared Content are here to give you the medical attention you deserve. When you choose us to be your family physician, we become family.

Shared Content are here to make your healthcare journey simple and bring further awareness to the community. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.