Tens of millions of adults struggle with diabetes. If you don’t have the disease but you’re obese, you may be at an increased risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. You’re probably already aware that, left untreated, diabetes could lead to complications such as poor kidney function and an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, and amputation of limbs as a result of poor blood flow.
Because obese bodies tend to resist insulin, glucose could build up in your blood when it should be absorbed by your cells.
Fortunately, there is help available to make sure you’re taking proper care of yourself. The professionals at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany, Mississippi, can show you how to decrease your risk of developing diabetes and better manage your weight.
A common measurement of obesity is through the body mass index (BMI), which is calculated based on your height and weight. People with a BMI of 30 or higher are typically classified as obese.
When you’re obese, the increased amount of abdominal fat can affect your body’s ability to produce its own insulin. While not all obese people will develop diabetes, it’s important to eliminate as many risks as you can.
Other factors, such as age, diet, and genetics, can affect your risks, but obesity is one of the most dangerous factors because it leads to the buildup of blood sugar.
Oral medications can help your body produce insulin more effectively, but one of the biggest preventive measures you can take is making lifestyle changes to better manage your weight.
Changing your diet to include healthier foods (including more vegetables and less junk food), regular exercise, reducing stress, and watching your cholesterol can reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
The staff at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic discusses your medical history, and your family’s, to assess your risk factors. If diabetes is indeed in your family, the team may recommend medications and/or insulin injections in addition to making healthy lifestyle changes.
By making lifestyle and dietary changes, you can reduce your chances of developing Type 2 diabetes by 40-60%.
You can schedule an appointment at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic by calling us at (662) 430-3375 or sending us a message here on our website. You can also use our website’s booking feature to request your appointment.
Our professional, caring staff can help you learn to live healthier and prevent diabetes. We look forward to hearing from you.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 812,000 children aged 17 or younger were treated in emergency medicine departments for concussions or traumatic brain injuries in 2014. If your child or teen participates in sports – especially in football, soccer, or ice hockey – it's essential to learn the signs of a concussion, so you know what to look for. If your teen got injured at practice or a game, they might try to downplay it like it's no big deal, but it could be.
At Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany, Mississippi, our highly skilled team of doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants treat patients of all ages, including adults, with sports concussions. Here's everything you need to know so you can get your athlete the care they need.
A concussion occurs when the brain experiences some force that causes it to move back and forth quickly inside the skull. For example, maybe your teen got tackled hard during a football game or hit in the head unexpectedly during a soccer game. Concussions can happen even if they're wearing a helmet because it's the force that causes the brain to move inside the skull. Wearing a helmet is still crucial because it's the first line of defense.
Sometimes it's obvious if someone has a brain injury. They may fall to the ground, become disoriented, or have trouble speaking. Other times, it may be hard to notice. To make it trickier, some people won't experience any symptoms until a few days later.
Some concussion symptoms:
If you notice any of these symptoms, or if they aren't acting like themselves after a recent game or practice, it's a good idea to bring them in for an evaluation.
Most of the time, a concussion won't appear on a computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging scan (MRI). So, we begin with the basics. We ask questions and assess the patient's balance, coordination, reflexes, vision, and hearing. If they do have a concussion, we recommend resting for 7-10 days with minimal exposure to computers, TV, and video games. In this situation, mental rest is as important as physical rest. We'd also like to see them for a follow-up visit, so we can clear them for participation in sports.
If you think your child needs immediate medical attention, call 9-1-1, or get them to the nearest hospital right away. Otherwise, contact us for an appointment as soon as you notice something is wrong. For concussions, we recommend you call us at (662) 430-3375 instead of using the online booking tool, so we can get your loved one in right away.
Whether you're a first-time parent or not, taking care of your precious, helpless infant is your most important job. Babies are usually resilient, but it's essential for you to know the warning signs of common health issues for infants. Knowing what symptoms to look for and what to do when your baby shows signs of an illness can help you love and care for your baby.
Infants do pick up illnesses from time to time, and with proper care, it's usually nothing to worry about. We at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic are sharing the warning signs and what to do in the case of some common childhood illnesses below.
Ear infections and pain are common in children. Your little one might pull or rub at their ears, and they might be fussier or more tearful than usual. They might also have trouble sleeping or lose their appetite.
Bring any child under the age of 6 months to our clinic when they show signs of an ear infection. If you have an older baby, they should see one of our skilled doctors if they have a fever and symptoms of an ear infection.
Babies can pick up colds and upper respiratory infections and suffer from sneezing, congestion, coughs, and sore throats. Bring your baby to our office if they have:
If your baby is younger than 3 months, you should bring them to our office at the first sign of a cold.
Many babies experience colic, a type of gastroesophageal reflux. It's uncomfortable and typically causes excessive crying and makes it difficult for you to soothe them or get your baby to sleep.
If your baby continually cries, make an appointment with our team. One of our pediatricians can examine your baby and might recommend a different feeding schedule, a different formula, or even medication to soothe their symptoms.
Babies' bowel movements are typically irregular for their first year of life, but they can experience constipation and diarrhea. Most of the time, these issues are temporary and subside quickly. If your baby suffers from chronic constipation or diarrhea, especially if they have a fever, you should bring them to our office to find the cause and get the treatment they need.
It’s not unusual for children to get skin rashes and infections like ringworm. When you see a rash on your little one, apply a small amount of an antihistamine. If that doesn't clear the infection, try an antifungal cream. If the skin problem still doesn’t go away, schedule an appointment with a member of our medical team.
Allergies are very common in children. If your child shows signs of an allergy like skin rashes, hives, itchy eyes, or swelling, give us a call to schedule allergy testing. Knowing what causes your little one's allergies will help you to prevent future allergic reactions and manage their health.
Here at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany, Mississippi, our team of expert doctors is on hand to help you protect your child's health and well-being. Our pediatric services include sick visits, well-child exams, immunizations, and more. Give us a call today or request an appointment using our online tool.
Staying active is an essential part of maintaining your physical and mental health. It may seem as though asthma is a good reason to avoid or stop exercising. If you suffer from shortness of breath, wheezing, or other disruptive symptoms, you might be reluctant to get back into a fitness routine. However, exercise for asthma can help you improve your heart and lung function while enhancing the overall quality of your life.
At Internal Medicine and Pediatric Clinic in New Albany, MS, we offer expert care and diagnostics tests to help you receive the most effective treatment. Our team specializes in controlling your symptoms, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a proper exercise program.
Asthma is a condition that causes inflammation and swelling in your lungs. If you suffer from frequent respiratory infections like the flu, you may be at higher risk for asthma. Patients whose parents have asthma are also more likely to develop the condition. Coming into contact with airborne allergens like pollen or dust can make your symptoms more severe.
There is no cure for asthma, but you can manage your symptoms by leading a healthy lifestyle. Here are some common symptoms associated with asthma:
One of our experts diagnoses your asthma by performing lung function tests. They begin by listening to your lungs and conducting a spirometry test. The test determines how much air is going in and out of your lungs. Patients with asthma are encouraged to exercise free from worrying about whether their symptoms be.
Before committing to an exercise routine, consult with one of our professionals about treatment plan options. One of our doctors can give you lifestyle modification advice and medications that manage your symptoms. Adding moderate exercise can help you strengthen your lungs, making everyday activities easier to complete. It can also boost your immune systems and certain chemicals in your body that combat depression and stress.
Some tips for exercising with asthma include:
Based on your symptoms, one of our specialists prescribes medication to help open your airways. The medication is available in the form of an inhaler that you may need to use daily or on an as-needed basis. Taking your asthma medication along with working out for about 30 minutes four to five days a week, can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Before committing to an exercise program, the doctor helps you decide what activities are best for you. If you’re taking asthma medication, you should use it before beginning exercise. Patients who warm-up before their activities have higher lung functions and faster recovery times. Additionally, you should always exercise at a level and speed that is appropriate for you to avoid experiencing adverse symptoms.
Volleyball, gymnastics, baseball, and wrestling are good examples of activities suitable for patients with asthma. Walking, biking, hiking, and swimming are all great ways to enhance upper-body strength and improve lung function. Some sports can trigger asthma symptoms, including soccer, long-distance running, basketball, and cold-weather sports like ice hockey. While many people are still able to take part in these activities fully, they can pose certain challenges.
If symptoms of asthma are getting in the way of physical activity, call our office or book an appointment online.
ADHD — attention deficit hyperactivity disorder — causes children to get distracted easily, act impulsively, and have a lot of extra energy. The disorder can make simple situations feel like chaos for both parent and child, which is why it’s critical for parents to have coping techniques up their sleeves.
ADHD is a psychological condition that involves short attention spans, difficulty concentrating, lack of attention to details, and impulsivity.
It can’t be diagnosed with any sort of physical exams, such as blood tests or electrocardiograms, so doctors must diagnose ADHD based on the criteria set forth in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the official diagnostic guide for psychological conditions in the United States.
According to the DSM, to be diagnosed with ADHD, a child must:
After your child’s doctor determines the presence of ADHD, they then determine the type and severity of your child’s ADHD.
There are two types of ADHD: inattentive type and hyperactive/impulsive type. Some children may show symptoms of both types of ADHD. There are three levels of severity: mild, moderate, and severe.
Every child feels differently about an ADHD diagnosis. Some children struggle to understand, while others seem to not even notice. You may wonder if getting a diagnosis is even worth it, especially if you think a diagnosis might hurt more than help. However, you should consider getting your child evaluated so that in case they really do have ADHD, you know exactly what you’re dealing with. Plus, if your doctor can diagnose, your doctor can help.
No matter how your little one feels about the diagnosis, it’s important that you take steps to help your child understand and work with their disorder. The experts at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic share their top five tips for helping your child cope with ADHD:
Your child may feel overwhelmed by commands, even simple ones. This can cause them to act out or get upset. Instead of simply telling your child what to do, break down tasks for them. For instance, instead of just saying, “Take out the trash,” offer up the steps: “Tie the trash bag, take the bag out of the can, and bring the bag to the big trash can outside.”
This tip might seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget in places you’re comfortable in, such as your home or vehicle. Create environments that facilitate focus by removing toys that aren’t being used, picking up stray books and magazines, and turning off electronics when not in use. Even something as simple as picking up empty cups around the kitchen can be helpful for a child with ADHD.
If your child is particularly hyperactive, burning off extra energy via intentional physical activity can help them stay calm throughout the day. It doesn’t have to be structured exercise; rather, this presents a great opportunity for your child to do what feels best. Playing catch, going for a bike ride, and jumping on a trampoline are all great examples of fun physical activities.
Teaching your child to think out loud can reduce and eventually eliminate inappropriate comments. This tactic forces your child to think about what they say, and in time, start to understand when it’s appropriate to say what. Thinking out loud can also help you as a parent, as you get to hear your child’s thought patterns.
Children with ADHD often do better with routine. Adding structure to your child’s day doesn’t have to be difficult. It can be as simple as making sure your child eats their meals around the same time each day, showers around the same time, and goes to bed at the same time each night.
If you think your child may have ADHD, or your child has already been diagnosed and you need help, contact Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic right away. Call our New Albany, Mississippi, office at (662) 430-3375 or request an appointment online.
Getting vaccinated is an important investment in your good health -- and your child’s. You know that you should get an annual flu shot along with other immunizations your doctor recommends, and your child needs certain immunizations as well, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
You’ve probably seen that vaccinations are available in many places, including the neighborhood pharmacy. Your grocery store’s pharmacy may offer them as well. While this may seem convenient, there are many reasons you should get vaccinated at your doctor’s clinic instead.
Here at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany, Mississippi, our talented team of doctors are ready to help you and your children get the vaccinations necessary to stay healthy and happy.
Vaccines are overwhelmingly safe, but it’s important to have them administered by a doctor who already knows your health history.
Certain health conditions or medications can make the timing of vaccinations inappropriate, and only a doctor with your medical records would know that information.
When you get a vaccine at the pharmacy, record-keeping is your responsibility. This is particularly important when it comes to childhood immunizations. Because vaccinations are required for school entrance, you need an accurate record of which vaccines your child has had and when they had it.
Because your doctor keeps a record of the immunizations you or your child have received, it can also help in regards to vaccine timing.
When vaccines need to be given in a series, they typically have to be given within certain intervals (meaning it can’t be given too close or too far from the time of the previous vaccine). Trust your doctor to keep these records in one place for you.
The Affordable Care Act requires health plans to cover all government-recommended vaccinations. However, some health insurance plans are more specific about where you can receive your shots.
Your health insurance plan may not cover immunizations at a pharmacy. You would need to check with your insurance company for their coverage rules before deciding to go outside of your doctor’s office. It’s often easier just to get them done at your doctor’s office because you can be sure that it’ll be covered.
The pharmacy is convenient, for sure. But there’s something about sitting in a chair, usually with just a screen around it, that doesn’t feel very private. Not to mention, if you’re a bit nervous about needles, you might feel anxiety and claustrophobia in those little booths.
In your doctor’s office, you’ll be in a familiar environment that’s more private, since most immunizations are given in the exam room.
Vaccines are safe, and the vast majority of them produce no reactions at all. At the same time, most doctors will ask you to remain in the office for a few minutes after receiving a vaccine to make sure you don’t have any unexpected negative reactions.
In the rare event that you do have a reaction, you’re in the best place to be treated. Pharmacists don’t have the same training to respond to such medical events.
Getting your vaccinations or your child’s immunizations is very important. But it’s also important to get them done in the most appropriate place. Call our New Albany, Mississippi, clinic today or use our convenient online booking tool to schedule an appointment with one of our caring providers.
