Family Medicine Blog
Men’s Health: PSA Testing
Although cancer is not something we generally want to think about, it is unfortunately a part of life. However, there are many simple ways to test for cancer that could end up saving your life. One such test is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, which may detect signs of prostate cancer even before normal symptoms appear. PSA is a protein made by the prostate gland and is found in the blood. Although there is no specific normal or abnormal PSA level, high levels of PSA may suggest the presence of prostate cancer. The PSA test involves taking a blood sample, which is then sent to a laboratory.
Pneumonia - What You Need To Know
With cold and flu season in full swing, it is important to protect your body against viral and bacterial infections. Pneumonia, an infection in the lungs caused by a virus, is one to look out for this winter. Learn more about pneumonia to help you and your family stay healthy this season.
Getting Fit in the New Year - Parts 1, 2, 3 and 4
Exercise does more for your body than just keep it slim. By maintaining regular physical activity, you can also prevent disease, have better posture and sense of well-being, which enables you to handle stress more easily. The most common questions about exercise are “What should I do?” and “How much should I do?” Join me each week to learn about important and easy activities and the benefits they will give you.
Part One: Starting an Exercise Routine
Determine your fitness level. Going 100 percent on the first day could cause injury since your body is not used to exercising regularly. Instead, determine your current fitness level so you know a good place to start. For example, if you can jog two miles without feeling exhausted then you can probably push it to three. However, if you feel very tired after walking up a flight of stairs, it’s a good idea to start at a lower intensity level for your exercise program. A good rule of thumb is to limit your increase in activity by 10 percent each week.
Make the Most of Your Doctor Visit - Part 1, 2 and 3
Doctor visits are sometimes stressful. It seems there’s so much to remember and you may become easily confused by options and instructions. You should always feel satisfied and confident about your health care plan. Join me each week to learn some insider tips on how to make the most of your doctor visit and receive the best care possible.
Part One: Before You Go
Being prepared for a visit with your doctor is the first step. Before your appointment, follow this simple checklist to ensure you receive the most complete care possible.
- Be specific when scheduling your appointment. When the receptionist or nurse knows exactly why you are making the appointment, he or she will be able to tell you what to expect and if you need to bring anything. This also helps them to schedule the correct amount of time with the doctor, allowing ample time to discuss any complex issues.
Sports Physicals - Part 1, 2 and 3
Have you ever wondered the importance of receiving an annual sports check-up? If your child is an athlete, or you are one yourself, join me each week to learn about the sports physical examination, sports injuries and how to prevent and treat them.
Part One: Sports Physicals - Why athletes need one.
- History of an illness within the family
- Personal history of illness or injury
- Medications he or she may be taking
- Allergies
- Hospitalizations
- Immunizations
- History of heart conditions
- History of head injuries