ADD and ADHD are different conditions, even though they often go hand-in-hand. ADD affects a person's ability to stay focused and organized, while ADHD typically causes hyperactivity and impulsivity issues. In either case, having a firm grasp of the signs and symptoms, along with available treatment options, can help you make the best decisions for your child.
Attention deficit disorder, or ADD, is a condition that is characterized by symptoms that make it difficult for a child to focus or concentrate beyond what is generally considered normal. Those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, may also have trouble focusing or concentrating; however, they have the added difficulty of controlling their impulses or staying still. Below are some additional characteristics of these two conditions.
People with ADD may have trouble focusing on tasks, paying attention during school, and completing homework assignments on time. They may find it difficult to concentrate on a particular activity for an extended period of time. This can make it frustrating to plan and execute tasks, especially when distractions are present. Note that people with ADD also have trouble controlling impulses, but they do not display hyperactive behavior.
Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the main symptoms of ADHD. These symptoms can make it hard for someone with the disorder to do well in school and at work. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, sitting still, and controlling impulsive behavior. They may be disorganized or struggle to follow instructions. They could also have difficulty remaining focused on a task or activity for an extended period of time.
With both ADD and ADHD, additional symptoms of either condition can include:
Note that initial signs of ADD or ADHD tend to appear around 7 years of age, but symptoms can ensue at any age. Oftentimes, parents understandably dismiss their child’s disruptive actions as simple kid behavior. However, when these actions begin to negatively impact kids’ school lives, home lives, or friendships, it may be wise to consider having them tested for ADD or ADHD.
With the help of a pediatrician and other experts, parents can better decipher the difference between normal hyperactive behavior and behavior that might require medical intervention. Our pediatrics team at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany can conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether your child has ADD or ADHD. Our IMPC service also includes testing for any other possible medical conditions that could be contributing to kids’ disruptive or forgetful behaviors.
Our IMPC pediatric and internal medicine physicians are highly trained in diagnosing and treating ADD/ADHD in children. We’ll work closely with you to determine whether your child has these conditions and advise how to treat them effectively. We approach every situation with the utmost care and compassion, ensuring you and your child have a positive experience with us and find a solution to meet your needs. Whether your child requires ADHD services, ADD services, or other health care, we are with you every step of the way.
Every evaluation for ADD or ADHD begins with a discussion between you and your child’s pediatrician. This conversation gives you the opportunity to raise any specific concerns about your child’s behaviors and various symptoms. We will review your child’s family history, general health history, and any other symptoms to evaluate whether other health conditions could be influencing their behavior.
As part of this evaluation, your child’s pediatrician may also ask to speak with your child’s teachers and caregivers. These conversations can help them glean further insights about any factors that could be contributing to your child’s behaviors.
If we confirm that your child has ADD or ADHD, our pediatrics team at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic will develop a custom treatment plan built off your child’s medical history and specific needs. This plan may include the following elements:
At Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany, we don’t simply treat ADD or ADHD; we provide comprehensive services that address your child’s needs holistically. As one of the Southeast’s top-ranked practices in pediatrics and internal medicine, we offer comprehensive services in-house, from lab work and diagnostics and follow-up care.
To schedule your child’s ADD or ADHD consultation with IMPC, call us at (662) 219-3557 or book an appointment online. We are eager to assist you with all of your family’s health needs.
As your family grows and changes, so do your healthcare needs. You can trust Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic to provide comprehensive, quality care for every stage of life. From well-child visits and sports physicals to treatment of acute illnesses and chronic conditions, we are here for you.
As a comprehensive family clinic, we offer a full range of services for every age group.
For Adults
For adults, we provide preventive care, management of chronic conditions, and treatment of acute illnesses. We also offer a full range of wellness services, including nutrition counseling and exercise programs.
For Children
For pediatrics, we offer well-child exams and immunizations, as well as treatment of acute and chronic illnesses. As we want to ensure that each child is growing and developing properly, we provide guidance on developmental milestones and behavioral issues so as to identify any delays and help the children catch up. We understand that raising them healthy is a top priority for our patients, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Other General Services
Offering complete family care for your medical needs, we also offer a variety of other general services such as:
Though it may seem like staying healthy and going for regular checkups is a drag, it’s actually one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your child. Your health is a reflection of your lifestyle choices, and by making healthy choices now, you’re setting yourself up for a healthier future. Regular checkups help you catch problems early, before they become serious, and allow you to make lifestyle changes that can improve your health.
IM&PC offers the best possible medical care in Northern Mississippi. Our board-certified physicians offer personalized care and our imaging and lab services are top notch, with staff that is always ready to help you with any needs you may have.
We are proud to be your one-stop family clinic, and we look forward to meeting all of your healthcare needs. Contact Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic today to schedule an appointment, and see for yourself why we are the best in the business!
Often, children and adults get running noses, coughs, and sneezing, but we assume it's a dust allergy or even a simple cold that will eventually go away. Well, that's not always the case. It might be a severe condition that needs attention before it gets worse.
Respiratory syncytial virus is one of the diseases that is often confused with the common cold. This article will discuss respiratory syncytial virus, its common causes, signs, symptoms, and its prevention.
What is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Respiratory syncytial virus is an infection that affects the respiratory system, such as the nose, mouth, windpipe, throat, lungs, voice box, and diaphragm. The disease is commonly mistaken for the common cold and cold outbursts during winter and early spring months.
Anyone can get RSV, but it commonly attacks infants below two years and adults above 65 years old. Many babies catch the disease twice between 0-24 months old, and approximately 120,000 die from it in the United States.
What causes Respiratory Syncytial Virus
RSV is transmitted when a person comes in contact with fluid from an infected person. It enters the body in the following ways:
Respiratory Syncytial Virus in babies and adults
You are probably asking yourself how babies and adults get RSV. RSV gets everyone, and it doesn't select who to infect. But, RSV in babies is common because babies get it from daycare centers, classrooms, or even homes.
Adults above 65 years old are usually taken care of in senior care centers. If one person gets infected, all the others are at risk of getting the disease because it spreads fast through the air.
Signs & symptoms of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus
A person infected with RSV starts to show illness within 2-5 days after getting the virus. The symptoms manifest themselves fast with children under three, adults over 65 years, and those with severe respiratory problems like asthma.
The symptoms don't show in a patient all at once; you might have a sore throat and not have breathing difficulties. To know you have the disease, you need to get checked by a doctor.
However, RSV goes away in a week or two without any treatment, but it persists for up to 4 weeks for those with other respiratory medical conditions. Seek medical attention if your condition persists.
Prevention measures for Respiratory Syncytial Virus
To prevent RSV infection from spreading to other people. You can take the following measures to prevent the disease from spreading.
At Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic (IM&PC), we offer services in our clinic that can help you with RSV. If you are in Mississippi, contact us for medical attention, and we will be happy to attend to you.
We offer the following services for RSV patients:
Trust our medical services at Internal Medical & Pediatric Clinic for your care and get back on your feet as soon as possible.
Adult care at Internal Medicine and Pediatric Care (IM&PC) in New Albany, Mississippi, strives to provide top-quality healthcare. Patient health is a top priority for certified, experienced, and qualified skilled providers. At IM&PC adult care services include Internal Medicine, Hypertension, Adult Wellness Exams, Diabetes, High Cholesterol, Urgent Care, Asthma, and Hospital Care.
Other services such as X-Rays, Adoption Physicals, DOT Physicals, and Telemedicine are available.
Listed as Southeast’s Top-Performing Practice IM&PC takes pride in being acclaimed for putting their patient’s health first.
HYPERTENSION
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost half the population, that is 47% of adults in the United States, have hypertension.
The term hypertension is used to describe high blood pressure. A person's blood pressure measures how much force their heart exerts to pump blood through the body. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters (mm) of mercury (Hg) as systolic and diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure (SP) is the pressure put on the walls of your arteries during the beating of your heart. Your heart's diastolic pressure (DP) is when it rests during heartbeats. A person’s blood pressure changes throughout the day based on factors like diet and activities.
For a normal blood pressure reading, you will see SP of less than 120mmHg and DP of less than 80mmHg. Blood pressure is shown as a measure of SP/DP. Hence, a normal reading is anything that is within the range of 120/80. You can start taking preventive measures and treat your condition as soon as you see prehypertension symptoms. The various stages of prehypertension and hypertension stages 1, 2, and 3 will tell you how serious your hypertension is. To prevent hypertension before it happens, it is best to constantly monitor and take precautions.
Some hypertension symptoms are nosebleeds, vision changes, irregular heartbeats, and early morning headaches. In advanced stages, symptoms could progress to vomiting, confusion, fatigue, chest pain, muscle spasms, and anxiety.
IM&PC offers treatment options for hypertension. Maintain your ideal blood pressure and prevent hypertension-associated health complications through regular checkups.
ASTHMA
Asthma results due to sensitive airways. The narrowing of the passage to your lungs produces more mucus, which makes it difficult to breathe. Asthma causes other symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. While for some asthma may be a hereditary condition, there are many other factors that trigger asthma in adults and children.
Common allergy-causing factors are animal fur, dust mites, pollen, fumes and smoke, and pollution. Changing weather conditions, colder temperatures, wind, heat, humidity, and thunderstorms can bring out the allergy-causing factors making some people prone to seasonal allergies. For some others, medication is also a trigger, such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Mold, cold, flu, stress, and exercise are other factors that potentially cause asthma. Identifying the triggering factors can help control and prevent your condition.
If you or your child has asthma, IM&PC offers customized diagnosis and treatment options. You can improve your quality of life through regular checkups while keeping your asthma under control.
DIABETES
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists some shocking facts about diabetes. Currently 38% of the adult US population, aged 18 and above are prediabetic, while the prediabetic population rises to 48.8% for those aged 65 years or more. If diagnosed early, diabetes is treatable.
When the body’s ability to respond to or produce insulin compromises, it leads to faulty metabolism. In this condition, since insulin function is affected, the body cannot efficiently break down sugars or carbohydrates. As a result, glucose (blood sugar) levels in urine and blood will increase. A blood report will show elevated fasting blood sugar levels, such as 126 mg/dl (milligrams per decilitre) or more.
Diabetes is broadly divided into Type I and Type II. While type I is genetically inherited and resistant to cure mostly requiring lifetime insulin injections, type II diabetes can be prevented through lifestyle modification.
Diabetes is a serious condition because elevated levels of blood sugar in your blood can cause other complications like kidney disease, heart disease, wound healing problems, vision loss, and more. Controlling and treating diabetes is very important and that is why schools implement diabetes awareness programs among young children.
IM&PC has helped many diabetes patients diagnose and treat their conditions. At IM&PC you can avail of blood testing and other laboratory services on-site for quick, and accurate results. Book your diabetes consultation appointment online or call for immediate help.
WELLNESS EXAMS
Wellness exams are important to stay healthy. These examinations of the body and systems help to diagnose a given problem earlier in life before it manifests into a disease or major illness. Such check-ups or physical examinations are key to maintaining good health.
During a routine wellness examination, your doctor, or healthcare provider may ask you questions about your lifestyle, mental state, emotional well-being, stress, physical activity, diet, and so on. They may also require you to perform routine examinations, such as checking for blood pressure, glucose levels, diabetes, cholesterol, osteoporosis, and so on. Women may additionally have to go through other tests like PAP (Papanicolaou) tests, mammograms, and others.
Wellness exams are important because they can identify potential risks to your health that you may not see. They are excellent indicators to predict the onset of dangerous problems like heart disease and diabetes even if you are currently not experiencing any symptoms.
Screening for life-threatening diseases like cancer is another important requirement today, especially with the rising cases of cancer. The National Cancer Institute has released statistical data over 5 years to show that the survival rate of those diagnosed with cancer is higher. The key to cancer is to diagnose it early and take the necessary treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Wellness exams also provide opportunities to keep up with vaccinations and other medical records. Having a medical doctor that you can trust and building a relationship with your doctor is the best way to ensure you are doing your part to maintain overall health. At IM&PC, it is easy to find a skilled healthcare provider of your choice and focus on prioritizing your health over everything else.
IM&PC provides world-class healthcare facilities in one place.
All of our additional services are listed under the services option on the homepage on our website.
New Albany, Mississippi: Looking for complete healthcare solutions? Want to find healthcare providers you can trust? Is it troublesome to get healthcare appointments?
We are here to help! Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic (IM&PC) in New Albany, Mississippi strives to provide top-quality healthcare. Here you can:
FIND SKILLED HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS YOU CAN TRUST
Although medicine has evolved over the years it has become challenging to find professional, experienced, and compassionate healthcare providers. The greatest healthcare providers are mindful of their patient’s needs. They treat every individual with kindness, humility, and empathy. This is what our providers at IM&PC do. You have caregivers and skilled providers who not only treat your medical condition(s), but also understand what you go through while patiently caring for your needs.
FORERUNNERS IN INTERNAL MEDICINE, PEDIATRICS, AND MORE
Internal Medicine treats a broad range of health concerns. For this, physicians need to have expert knowledge and practical expertise for precise diagnoses and treatments. Pediatrics on the other hand involves caring for adolescents, children, and infants. A Pediatrician’s job begins when a child is born up until the child turns 21 years of age. Pediatricians detect, prevent and manage behavioral, physical, and developmental issues in children.
IM&PC in New Albany is pioneering in healthcare. The well-qualified, and experienced staff at IM&PC offer personalized care, attention, and services to adults and children.
At IM&PC, the Board-Certified team of Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Nurse Practitioners offer each patient the personal care they deserve with thorough, professional knowledge. With advanced-designed rooms, facilities, instruments, equipment, and dedicated and committed healthcare providers, IM&PC is passionate about providing care for you and your family. The patient-centric approach at IM&PC ascertains satisfaction in holistic healing.
IM&PC follows a comprehensive approach to health care providing compassionate, in-depth, and holistic care for all ages. The facility specializes in pediatrics, urgent care, adult wellness exams, and many other conditions.
All IM&PC professionals trained in internal medicine care for those with chronic, complex health conditions and multisystem disorders. The Pediatric Clinic focuses on caring for and treating children’s diseases and associated problems.
OTHER SPECIALIZED SERVICES
In addition to Internal Medicine & Pediatrics, the services that offer specialized services for various other patients are listed under the services option on the homepage.
PEDIATRICS
Top pediatricians are available to respond, treat and provide medical care for babies and children. Services at IM&PC, the Southeast’s most acclaimed pediatric department, are careful to ensure that all your child’s needs are being met. From immunizations, postnatal evaluations, well-child and sick visits, and more, your child will have access to the best facilities to grow healthy and happy.
ADULT WELLNESS EXAMS
Wellness exams are important to prevent unwanted health complications before they actually happen. The key to protecting your health is to identify such potentially serious health conditions and take preventive measures so that you stay healthy. The IM&PC’s competent, experienced and skilled physicians are ready to offer accurate wellness exams for preventive health strategies. The Adult Wellness Exams are routine examinations done for patients to assess overall health and to know if health is compromised in any way. These could be blood tests, health exams, and other routine or general check-ups.
IM&PC has a wide variety of Imaging and Lab Work Services available at the clinic. Patients are immediately attended to in-house with access to X-Ray and blood tests as needed. All medical records at the clinic are safely stored.
URGENT CARE
Disease and illness come with no warning and this is the scariest uncertainty for you or your child. That is why IM&PC has an Urgent Care department. The word urgent aptly suggests that such a situation may arise at any time. Hence, urgent care is a top priority at IM&PC. Whether seriously sick or with mild illness, cough, cold, runny nose, fever, nausea, sore throat, or any other health-related concern, do not hesitate to contact IM&PC. Note that for Urgent Care visits, you do not need appointments.
IM&PC IS YOUR ONE-STOP SOLUTION TO ALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROBLEMS
IM&PC follows holistic healing and general wellness and that is why all specialists follow a patient-centered approach to caring for individuals. Every person’s spiritual and psychological needs are also addressed while treating physical ailments. At IM&PC all patients are equally important. IM&PC strives for continued lifelong treatment.
With top facilities, doctors, physicians, and caregivers IM&PC offers a comprehensive solution to all your health needs. Be assured of fast and precise treatments since the facility has top technology and the right people to care for you. If you want an appointment with a specific provider, you can book an appointment by asking for a skilled provider of your choice.
Illness creeps in at the most unexpected and often inconvenient times. When symptoms strike, you need providers that can be there in a pinch to get you back to your best. That’s why Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic offers Urgent Care.
The Value of Urgent Care
Urgent Care is a convenient, affordable, and prompt option for routine illnesses and even some minor emergencies.
Unlike your primary care physician, Urgent Care does not require an appointment. This can be ideal because it allows you to make a trip to the doctor’s office when you feel up to it. Most people want immediate attention, and with Urgent Care, that is possible. Additionally, Urgent Care is usually quicker than an ER visit.
Affordability is another benefit of Urgent Care. ER visits often fall under a patient’s deductible and co-insurance requirements. While Urgent Care is billed more like a routine office visit with a co-pay. Of course, each insurance provider is different, but an Urgent Care visit will generally save you money.
Services Offered at Urgent Care
Most people associate Urgent Care with minor illnesses, like the common cold. And it’s true; we routinely see patients for cough, runny nose, fever, nausea, sore throat, and other common cold/flu symptoms. But really, Urgent Care can be a resource for more emergent concerns, too.
Ancillary services, such as imaging and labs, support physicians in diagnosing and treating patients.
Where to Go: Urgent Care or the Emergency Room
A straightforward way to know if Urgent Care is a good choice is to consider if you would generally make a doctor’s appointment about your concern. Many studies indicate that patients often visit the Emergency Room simply because their doctor’s office is closed, but you should visit Urgent Care in these instances.
Urgent Care
Urgent Care can offer treatment for rashes, and common cold/flu-like symptoms. Additionally, if you experience some ailments on a recurring basis, such as earaches, pink eye, or a urinary tract infection, visit Urgent Care to confirm your diagnosis and get your prescription ordered promptly.
Urgent Care can provide stitches if you have a small cut. Sprains and strains can also be treated at Urgent Care. Additionally, Urgent Care may be the right place to start for x-rays and referrals if you suspect a broken bone.
Sometimes, there’s a simple treatment plan that helps you manage more concerning symptoms, such as abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea and vomiting, or even shortness of breath. So, it’s ok to start your medical journey at Urgent Care, where a physician can diagnose the source of these symptoms and get treatment for you. If the symptoms indicate that something more severe is the root issue, the physician at Urgent Care will be able to offer a referral to help you navigate the next steps.
Emergency Room
Life-saving treatment should be handled in an Emergency Room. And if you’re the one in need of emergency services, do not drive yourself to the hospital. Call 911.
Emergency Rooms are the first place to present if you are experiencing signs of heart attack or stroke. According to the American Heart Association, signs of a heart attack or stroke may include chest pain, lightheadedness, vomiting, shortness of breath, and pain or discomfort in upper body areas, including the arm, shoulder, neck, back, or jaw.
Head injuries are also very serious and should be treated in an Emergency Room. Concussions, confusion, slurred speech, and facial cuts are most suitable for an Emergency Room visit.
If you have a symptom or wound that you consider severe, report directly to an Emergency Room. Furthermore, Emergency Rooms are optimal treatment locations if you are experiencing numbness on one side of your body, fainting or changes in your mental state, or seizures. And all severe burns should be treated in an Emergency Room. All of these situations have life-threatening implications, and time is of the essence in providing treatment. So, it’s best to be in an Emergency Room at a hospital where a wide range of resources and staff are ready to assist patients.
Urgent Care is Primary Care
While Urgent Care is a convenient option, it’s essential to recognize that Urgent Care cannot replace the role of a primary care physician. At IM&PC we do offer both primary and urgent care services with our trusted doctors.
Here When You Need Us
At Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic, the trusted physicians in our practice manage Urgent Care so our patients can have peace of mind in knowing they are getting expert care every time. We offer extended hours to give our patients access to care earlier in the morning, later in the evening, and on Saturdays. Learn more about the Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic’s Urgent Care services.
Next time you need care immediately, we’re here for you – and every member of your family.
The onset of fall means many things - beautifully colored leaves, the beginning of pumpkin spice season, and unfortunately, an increased risk of experiencing many common illnesses and injuries.
In this article, we'll identify some of the most prevalent to occur during this time of year and explain ways you can mitigate your potential for contracting them.
Influenza (Flu)
The beginning of fall means the beginning of flu season, and despite medical professionals' efforts to eradicate it through vaccination, the fact remains that influenza is still a very prevalent illness in the United States. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control estimates that an annual average of 9 to 41 million cases of the flu were diagnosed in America between 2010 and 2020.
Every year, it's expected that 5% to 20% of the country's population will contract the illness, with cases being most prevalent in children and youth.
While influenza has been around for years, it remains a serious virus capable of causing serious complications and outcomes in those who contract it. Over 200,000 people are hospitalized because of the flu every year, and between 12,000 and 52,000 die from it annually.
Our most vulnerable are at the highest risk of adverse outcomes; infants under six months old and seniors make up most of hospitalizations and deaths.
Signs and Symptoms of the Flu
Even if you don't develop complications, the flu is just outright awful to have. Contraction of the virus comes with a range of potential symptoms, many of which can be severe and last up to seven days.
Common signs and symptoms of influenza include:
Of course this list isn't exhaustive; some people will experience additional and/or separate symptoms from those described here.
Mitigating the Flu
While your risk for contracting influenza increases in the fall, you're not defenseless against the virus. There are a number of things people can do to mitigate their potential for exposure and developing serious cases of the illness. The following are a few of the most effective.
Allergies
Seasonal allergies are a very real problem for many Americans, currently affecting over 50 million people annually. While they're known to flare up during the springtime, seasonal allergies are also very common in autumn.
Ragweed pollen is one of the most common triggers here; it's estimated that about 75% of those with allergies to spring plants are also adversely affected by ragweed. Ragweed begins to pollinate in late August and continues to do so through September, October and sometimes even later, depending on how warm a local climate is.
Many other irritants like cedar elm, sagebrush and mugwort, can cause flare ups in those who have allergic rhinitis until first frost.
Signs and Symptoms of Fall Allergies
What does having fall allergies look and feel like? In many cases, very similar to those you'd expect in the springtime.
Common signs and symptoms of fall allergies include:
Mitigating Fall Allergies
Although allergies are less of a thing you can contract and more so something that you can be predisposed to, there are some measures individuals at risk can take to mitigate the severity of their symptoms.
Broken Bones and Fractures
As far as injuries go, broken bones and fractures are among the most commonly seen in autumn. They're usually caused by slip and *fall* accidents and occur in the hip, wrist, arm and ankle.
While the proper use of the terms 'broken bone' and 'fracture' are often convoluted, both refer to situations where a bone has been partially or completely shattered.
Breaks can happen at any time of year, but are especially likely to occur during autumn. Factors like changing an increase in regular school and sports schedules and of course leaf-covered terrain all contribute to the risk of slipping, falling and breaking a bone.
Mitigating Your Risk of Broken Bones and Fractures
There are a few key things you can do to help prevent broken bones and fractures this autumn.
First and foremost, be aware of your surroundings. When walking on pavements or sidewalks, always keep an eye out for any potential obstacles in your path. Wet leaves can be particularly slippery, so take extra care when walking on them.
Second, always warm up before participating
How Do You Know if You Have a Broken Bone or Fracture?
The signs and symptoms of broken bones and fractures are usually pretty clear, but can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury.
Some common indications that you may have suffered a break or fracture include:
What to Do if You Think You Have a Broken Bone or Fracture
If you think you may have suffered a broken bone or fracture, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
There are a few things you can do in the meantime to help ease your pain and prevent further injury, including:
Want to make sure you're on top of your health this fall? Trust the professionals at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic to get you ready for everything the season has to throw at you.
The days are getting shorter and temperatures are slowly starting to drop. This can only mean one thing: fall is right around the corner!
With this season comes the promise of bonfires, apple cider, and football games. It’s one of the best times of the year, but it can also have its drawbacks. There are many viral illnesses that become more prevalent and easier to spread in the fall, making these months less magical and more miserable.
It’s important to take care of yourself now so you can enjoy all of the bounty that awaits. Today, we’re taking a look at a few of the most common illnesses to be aware of in the coming months, and how our team at IMPC can help you stay well.
Does pollen tend to trigger your allergies each spring? If so, then you’re likely to experience those same symptoms in the fall, as allergens such as ragweed and mold spores start to appear.
Some of the most common signs of fall allergies include:
Another common culprit? Your HVAC system! When you turn your heat on during that first chilly night, it can stir up dust mites in and around the machine. These can also lead to an allergic reaction.
Some of the steps you can take to minimize your symptoms include keeping the doors and windows of your house shut when possible and showering after spending an extended amount of time outdoors. You can also check the news or download apps to monitor your local air quality and pollen counts each day.
The influenza virus is especially common during the fall and can lead to some pretty miserable symptoms. While many of the early signs can mimic those of a common cold, the flu is more serious and can turn into more severe illnesses, including pneumonia and bronchitis, if left untreated.
Some of the most common symptoms of the flu include:
An annual flu shot can help strengthen your immune system against the flu. It can also minimize any symptoms you experience if you do contract the virus. You can visit us at IMPC to receive your flu shot if you haven’t gotten one already.
Other ways to keep the flu away include washing your hands regularly, covering your nose and mouth while sneezing, and avoiding big crowds. You can also build up your natural immune response by getting plenty of rest, following a healthy diet, and minimizing stress.
The common cold is usually less severe than the flu, but it can still be uncomfortable. It also tends to hang around, lasting anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. This is an upper respiratory infection usually caused by rhinoviruses, and it’s easily spread from one person to the next.
Symptoms of the common cold can include:
The same prevention tips you’d use to prevent the flu also apply to the common cold. While there’s no immunization to prevent it, you can avoid catching it by washing your hands thoroughly (especially after visiting a public place), avoiding crowds, and adopting a healthy, low-stress lifestyle.
As its name implies, cold-induced asthma usually develops out of a common cold. It’s also referred to as winter asthma.
If you’re already dealing with symptoms of a cold, your nasal passages and airways are already inflamed. As the weather turns colder, it can exacerbate this dryness. In turn, this can make it more difficult to catch your breath, even when you aren’t exercising.
Symptoms of cold-induced asthma include:
Try to avoid places and environments that will trigger your asthma, and treat any cold or flu symptoms as early as possible to prevent them from developing into this illness. It’s also important to stay away from smoke-filled environments, as these can worsen your asthma.
Many of the symptoms of sinusitis mimic those of the common cold. However, this condition tends to be more acute and longer-lasting. It occurs when the tissues that line your sinuses and the cavities around your nasal passage become inflamed.
If you come down with the flu, cold, or allergies, then sinusitis can often develop as a result. For this reason, it’s more common in colder weather.
Symptoms of sinusitis include:
Promptly treating other fall illnesses can help keep sinusitis at bay. To lessen its effects, drink plenty of liquids to thin out your nasal discharge, and get lots of rest. You can also keep your nasal passages moist with saline sprays to reduce irritation and inflammation.
When the days and nights start to turn colder, it can trigger post nasal drip in your sinuses. This can cause your throat to feel scratchy, especially when you first wake up in the morning.
In addition, you may also experience a sore throat if you’re dealing with seasonal fall allergies, as well as the flu or common cold.
Some of the symptoms you may experience as a result of a sore throat include:
Sometimes, a sore throat is an unavoidable symptom related to a fall virus. However, you can increase your chances of staying healthy by washing your hands, avoiding crowds, and
covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze. If you know someone is sick, avoid socializing with them and don’t share any food or drinks.
Arthritis
While it’s technically a disease and not an illness, if you suffer from arthritis, you might discover that your symptoms tend to get worse as cold, damp weather approaches.
This condition, which causes painful inflammation to develop around your joints, accelerates with age.
Symptoms of arthritis include:
To control and prevent symptoms of arthritis, try to stick to a healthy diet and participate in moderate exercise a few times a week to control your weight and keep your joints flexible. At IMPC, we also offer a range of internal medicine services that can help you manage and alleviate symptoms.
Don’t let these common fall illnesses get you down. At IMPC, we’re committed to keeping you healthy in every season, including this one!
By taking a preventative approach to your care, our team of board-certified physicians can identify and treat symptoms of illness before they snowball into bigger issues. When you schedule an adult wellness exam, we’ll take a close look at your medical history to understand which seasonal triggers may aggravate you, and share tips to help you prevent them before they even start.
In addition, you can also schedule your yearly flu shot at our office, along with other annual immunizations. This can help strengthen your immune system and lower your risk of contracting the flu this year.
You deserve to head into fall confident, happy, and healthy! Request an appointment with our team today to learn more about how to take charge of your health and feel your best all year.
With a never-ending to-do list and plenty on your plate, you might wonder if scheduling an annual visit with your physician is really worth it. Shouldn’t you only visit the doctor when you’re feeling sick?
In reality, adult wellness exams hold more value than many people realize. These visits give you the opportunity to ask questions about your health, identify early risk factors, and much more.
Today, we’re sharing why these exams are so important and all the different services you can access when you schedule yours at Internal Medicine and Pediatric Clinic (IMPC) today.
If you could improve your health in just one hour, would you do it? When you schedule an annual wellness exam, that’s exactly what you’re doing. However, it’s easy to push these visits back, especially when your schedule is full and your free time is limited.
The only problem? Waiting until you’re sick to visit the doctor could leave you with even more health challenges. By taking a preventative and proactive approach, you can often catch and resolve issues before they develop into bigger problems, setting the foundation for a healthy future.
Let’s take a look at a few of the top reasons to make your annual appointment as soon as possible.
If you have a stomach virus or the flu, you’ll usually notice the signs right away. However, there are many conditions that are more difficult to detect because they don’t show symptoms until they’re well-progressed.
These include high blood pressure and high cholesterol, among others. Left unchecked, these conditions can put you at a higher risk of experiencing a serious medical event, such as a heart attack or stroke.
When you attend annual wellness exams year after year, your physician can keep an ongoing record of your vital stats. At each visit, they can compare them to monitor your progress. This can reveal early, subtle signs that a medical condition is developing.
If caught early on, these conditions are often treatable and reversible. However, they become more difficult to treat the more severe they become. By prioritizing your yearly check-ups, you can keep a close eye on your health and take the actions required to keep it on track.
If you are currently taking medication or undergoing treatment for a certain medical condition, your physician can check to see how your body is responding to it at your exam. For instance, you might be taking a statin for high cholesterol or undergoing insulin therapy for type 2 diabetes.
At each visit, your doctor will check your progress and adjust your treatment if necessary. Skipping these appointments could mean staying on a treatment that isn’t as effective as it could be with the right intervention.
Even if you feel well today, you could still carry certain genetic factors that make you more susceptible to developing a medical condition in the future. Your physician can monitor those early risk factors now, allowing you to take early steps to curtail the disease down the road.
Your wellness visit is also a great time to get your annual vaccines or immunizations. These give your immune system the boost it needs to fight off specific diseases, helping you stay healthy and feel your best. At this time, your physician can also share information with you about health screenings recommended for your age group, from mammograms to colonoscopies.
Paying for an annual wellness exam is much more affordable than paying for a hospital stay after a major medical event. By taking charge of your health and monitoring it once a year, you can often prevent illnesses from turning into more serious (and costly) diseases.
Your physician has access to your entire medical history and can recommend healthy behaviors to keep you looking and feeling your best as you get older. The wellness plan you start in your twenties should not be the same one you adhere to in your eighties.
As your needs change, they’ll help you adjust your routine and share practices that you can incorporate to improve your quality of life and ward off illness.
At IMPC, we’re dedicated to taking a personalized approach to your care. Our physicians are board-certified in internal medicine and pediatrics and are ready to help you take charge of your health.
Our adult wellness exams allow us to discover and identify any potential health issues that our patients might be experiencing, so we can take action and treat them before they get serious. We’ll also check your existing treatments or prescriptions to see if we need to make any changes or updates to help you feel your best.
During each visit, we allow plenty of time for patient conversation. This is your time to ask our team any questions you might have about your health, as well as any concerns.
At your visit, we can perform preventative screenings to check for certain health conditions. Among others, this includes:
If you’re showing early signs of these conditions or you have a family history of them, it’s important to run these routine checks to identify potential risk factors and symptoms. In addition to general health screenings, our physicians can also perform aging-specific screenings.
For example, a bone density test allows us to check for the earliest signs of osteoporosis in our patients. This way, we can start treating that condition early and keep your bones strong as you get older.
The best part? We can perform many of these screenings right in our office using our in-house x-ray machine and laboratory. This means you don’t have to visit an off-site lab, so you can receive your results much faster.
Immunizations help support your body’s natural immune response to serious and often
life-threatening diseases. At your wellness exam, your physician may find that you are behind on your immunization schedule, which could put you at a greater risk of contracting these diseases.
Some of the immunizations we offer in our office include:
We understand busy. We know it can be easy to under-emphasize your annual wellness exam, but we encourage you to make it a priority.
Our physicians at IMPC would love to see you. In addition to routine exams, we also offer a full scope of health services, ranging from internal medicine and urgent care to hospital care and telemedicine.
We can also keep the youngest members of your family healthy with our well-child exams and immunizations! Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more.
