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March 17, 2022

Health

Conditions That Need Gastrointestinal Surgery

Gastrointestinal surgery is one of the most common procedures for humans. Many gastrointestinal surgeries are performed on different digestive tract areas, including the lips, esophagus, stomach, small intestines, large intestines, rectum, and anus. Digestive system disorders that can be corrected by gastrointestinal surgery include cancer, blockage or obstruction of the intestine, gallstones, and ulcers. Anesthesia is typically used during gastrointestinal surgeries. If you have a condition that requires gastrointestinal surgery, you need to ensure that you get it done by a doctor specializing in gastrointestinal surgery in Sebring. Here are some conditions you can get relief from with gastrointestinal surgery.

Stomach Ulcers

Stomach ulcers are the most common reason for gastrointestinal surgery. These ulcers can occur anywhere in the stomach, but they are most commonly found at the junction of the stomach and small intestine (duodenum) or the pyloric sphincter. A doctor may use an endoscope to find out whether there is any damage to the stomach lining. Other tests include a breath test, x-rays, electrocardiogram, and blood tests. The doctor will recommend the proper treatment depending on the severity of the ulcer.

Stomach Cancer

Cancers of the stomach are classified as adenocarcinomas, lymphomas, and sarcomas. They originate from the cells that secrete hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes. The early stages of these cancers do not have any symptoms. If a doctor suspects cancer, they will recommend tests such as computed tomography (CT), barium swallow, ultrasound, and endoscopy. If cancer is detected, the doctor will suggest surgery to remove part or all of the stomach.

Hernias

Hernias are caused by the protrusion of contents from a weak spot in the abdomen wall. These bulges can occur anywhere, but they’re most common in areas where ligaments and tissues supporting internal organs (such as bowels and blood vessels) weaken. Surgery is required to repair the hernia and prevent a recurrence.

GI Cancers

A doctor will recommend surgery to treat GI cancers depending on the location, severity of symptoms, and type. The abdominal cavity is opened up during the surgery. If cancer has spread to other parts of the body, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may also be required after the surgery.

Polyps

Polyps are non-cancerous growths that grow on the lining of the intestines. They are rounded and bumpy and can get infected or turn cancerous if not removed during surgery. The doctor may recommend a biopsy to determine the cause of polyps. Some polyps require removal, while others do not need any treatment.

GI Tract Blockages

A blockage in the intestines can cause serious problems, which is why it’s crucial to get treated right away. A doctor will recommend a treatment plan depending on the type and severity of the blockage. For example, if a patient has swallowed something blocking the intestines, they may need an endoscopy for foreign objects or surgery to remove intestinal obstructions.

In summary, gastrointestinal surgery is a surgery that targets the gastrointestinal system. It can help treat various conditions, including stomach ulcers, stomach cancer, polyps, and other GI cancers. It can also help patients with hernias or blockages in the digestive system. If you need gastrointestinal surgery, make sure you have it done by a specialist to avoid complications.

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Health

Considerations to Having the Right Mouth Guard

Sports trauma or teeth grinding contribute significantly to injuries in the cheeks, tongue, and gums. There are various reasons why your dentist may recommend Midtown mouth guards, including night protection from bruxism. However, choosing the right mouth guard can be challenging, especially if you do not know what to look for. Working with your dentist can help you have the ideal device that will suit your unique needs.  

What to consider when selecting a mouth guard

Thanks to their small size, mouth guards can be confusing. You start thinking of the kind that might best suit your unique needs, depending on the size and the specifications. For instance, your healthcare provider might suggest a device that suits your sports or for general purposes. Choosing the right mouth guard entails:

  • Select the right fit

Mouth guards come in three types:

  • Mouth-adapted mouth guards

Mouth-adapted devices adapt to your mouth’s features. Also referred to as boil-and-bite mouth guards, you will need to immerse the mouth guard in hot water to soften its inner layers before biting on it to create the shape. Thus, they give you the chance to tailor your mouth guard to your perfect fit. Thanks to their adaptability, healthcare providers mostly recommend them to athletes.  

  • Ready-made

Also referred to as instant fit mouth guards, the devices do not need adjustments to fit. Thus, you take the guard out of the box and wear them without alterations. Though these types are easy to wear and remove, they can be bulky and less secure.    

  • Custom-fit mouth guards

Unlike the other devices, you might need to contact your dentist for fitting. The medical expert will mold the mouth guard to your teeth for an exact fit. 

  • Choose a mouth guard that will give you protection and comfort

Do not opt for a device that prompts you to choose between comfort and safety. While assessing the right fit, you might ask yourself questions like:

  • Will I breathe and talk comfortably? If the device prevents you from sustaining a conversation or makes it challenging for you to breathe, then it is not your size.
  • Does it fit securely? You do not need to bite your teeth to keep a fitting mouth guard in place. Additionally, you should not find it easy to loosen the device with your tongue.
  • To what extent does the mouth protection cover? A good mouth guard should protect all your teeth, excluding your back molars. Though the device should cover parts of your gum, it should not overwhelm your jaws or extend far into your mouth as it might result in gagging.
  • Ensure the mouth guard has features fitting your sport

Besides the color, size, and type, you should also consider your sport and how you play the game. For instance, a boxer might need a mouth guard with a higher level of protection than a field hockey player. Your healthcare provider might recommend a convertible mouth guard if your sport entails wearing additional gears like a helmet or a brace-compatible mouth guard if you have braces to protect the braces and your teeth.

Contact your dentist for more inquiries about mouth guards. 

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Health

Who Should See an Interventional Pain Specialist?

Chronic pain can be debilitating, making it challenging to go about your day-to-day life. If medication and other treatments haven’t been successful in reducing your pain, an interventional pain specialist in Eugene, OR, may be able to help. This doctor has specialized training in diagnosing and treating chronic pain with various techniques, including injections and nerve blocks. Here are indicators that you need help from an interventional pain specialist in Eugene, OR.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting millions of people in the U.S. It is a degenerative joint disease that causes pain and loss of joint function. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint in the body, but it most commonly affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine. Symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion.

There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but many treatments can help relieve symptoms. These treatments include medications, physical therapy, and surgery. If you are experiencing symptoms of osteoarthritis, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Bursitis

Bursitis is inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. When bursae develop tiny tears or become clogged with inflammatory cells, it can cause pain and stiffness in the affected joint. 

The most common type of bursitis is known as “heel pain” (also called plantar fasciitis.) This painful condition causes inflammation at the bottom of the foot, where a pad of fat and connective tissue known as the plantar fascia supports your arch. Other types of bursitis include knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, and wrist bursitis.

Treatments to reduce swelling and pain from bursitis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy. If these treatments don’t help relieve your pain, see your doctor for further diagnosis.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is one of the most common causes of lower back pain. Over time, normal wear and tear on the spinal discs can lead to deterioration and possible damage to a spinal disc. When a spinal disc bulges or ruptures, it places pressure on nearby nerves. 

If you have degenerative disc disease caused by arthritis, you may experience pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs. Other symptoms include muscle spasms, cramps, and damage to the nerves that travel out of your spine.

Facet Joint Syndrome

Facet joints are located in the spine where the vertebrae meet. They help maintain the stability of the spinal column and allow us to move. When facet joints become inflamed, they can cause radiating pain, stiffness, or tenderness in your upper or lower back. The condition is known as facet joint syndrome.

If you have chronic lower back pain that isn’t relieved by rest or medications, see your doctor to diagnose facet joint syndrome.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition that happens when spinal discs start to collapse, and the spine becomes narrow. If the spinal canal gets too little, it can pressure nerves traveling out of your spine. Over time, this pressure can cause pain, numbness, weakness in your legs or arms, and difficulty with bladder control.

If you seek relief from chronic pain that is not alleviated by traditional treatments, an interventional pain specialist may help. These doctors have specialized training in diagnosing and treating chronic pain with various techniques, including injections and nerve blocks. An interventional pain specialist should be your target if you have medical concerns such as osteoarthritis, bursitis, and spinal stenosis.

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Health

Reasons to Consider Microblading

When you visit a spa or dermatologist, you will likely hear about tattoo services. One of the services you will hear about in a modern-day spa-like Florida Lakes Spa is microblading. Microblading is similar to permanent makeup. The only difference between the two is that microblading uses nothing more than a blade to make tiny cuts on your skin. These cuts make your eyebrows look more defined and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some reasons why you should consider microblading for yourself:

The Procedure is Not as Painful as You Might Think

Now, the idea of having your eyebrows cut into your skin may sound like a painful experience. However, that is not always the case with microblading. Unlike other types of eyebrow tattoos and permanent makeup, microblading uses a blade to make minor cuts on your brows instead of needles which means that you will not test your pain threshold. The pain you experience will vary from person to person, depending on how much pain your skin can handle. Also, the procedure may feel a lot different depending on what type of skin you have. The best way to know how it feels is to go for a test drive with a professional who provides microblading services.

Precise and Effective

What makes microblading different from other types of eyebrow tattoos and permanent makeup is the precision involved in the process. Microblading only requires one small cut at a time, which means it is pretty precise. This type of precision also ensures cosmetic effects that are longer lasting than any other treatment you can get for your eyebrows. Unlike other cosmetic treatments, microblading does not require a lot of recovery time either, which is excellent news for people who have a busy schedule and cannot afford to take off from work or school to get their eyebrows done.

Quick Procedure

Microblading is a quick procedure meaning that it only takes a single session to get the perfect eyebrows you have always wanted. In fact, the procedure only takes about one hour from start to finish, which includes consultation time and everything else. When you compare this to eyebrow tattoos and permanent makeup, microblading stands out in terms of time saved. However, the effects of microblading tend to last a lot longer than other types of eyebrow tattoos and permanent makeup because all you have to do is let your brows heal from the cuts before you can see the final results.

No Needles

Unlike regular tattoo procedures that usually require needles, microblading uses nothing more than a special blade to make the cuts on your skin for this procedure which is why it’s different from other eyebrow tattoos and permanent makeup. Also, microblading does not require any injection of ink under your skin.

Procedure is Less Invasive

Microblading is one of the least invasive procedures out there compared to other eyebrow tattoos and permanent makeup. Using a blade to make cuts on your skin means that you only need the smallest number of incisions for this treatment compared to other procedures out there. Being minimally invasive makes it one of the most effective treatments for men and women interested in having their eyebrows done.

Microblading is a safe and effective treatment for eyebrows. However, you need to know that all types of eyebrow tattoos and permanent makeup are not created equal. You should go for an experienced professional who offers microblading services to get the best results from this type of treatment.

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Health

Why Is Primary Care Important In Modern Healthcare?

Primary care medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on the health care needs of people throughout their lives, from before birth to old age. It is an essential part of preventing and treating illness and making sure we stay as healthy as we can be. Primary care doctors work as part of a health care team that often includes other specialists such as physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They provide most or all of their patients’ non-emergency medical treatment. Dr. Leela Patel in South Charleston emphasizes disease prevention and health maintenance. Like other primary care doctors, she accomplishes this through patient education and counseling, examinations and screenings, immunizations, and collaborations with other health care professionals. But why is primary care medicine a critical part of the modern healthcare setup? Here are some reasons.

Prevention

Primary care doctors help in preventative healthcare. Primary care physicians can give people a timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment to keep them well and ensure they don’t get sick. Because people come to primary care doctors regularly, they know their patients well and can pick up on early signs of illness. By diagnosing problems before they become severe, primary care doctors help many patients avoid visiting the hospital or even a specialist.

Disease Management

Primary care doctors help manage diseases. When patients have a chronic condition or a long-term illness that requires ongoing medical treatment and monitoring, primary care doctors are well equipped to keep things under control. They coordinate care among other specialists, prescribe medications, and manage treatment. When things get out of control or patients are not improving, primary care physicians can track down the cause or refer them to another doctor.

Health Promotion & Maintenance

Primary care doctors help in health promotion and disease prevention. Because they see people when they’re feeling well, primary care doctors can keep their patients on track. They provide vaccinations, conduct health screenings, and teach people to maintain good health through proper diet and exercise. Primary care physicians also follow up with patients after high-risk procedures or treatments that may pose some risks to the patient’s overall health.

Informed Decisions

Primary care doctors provide information. It is difficult for patients to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments and procedures from adverts, product information leaflets, or advice from friends. Primary care doctors have the necessary knowledge to answer questions about treatments and diagnosis. Patients are more likely to understand what is being said if they receive most of their health information from one reliable source rather than multiple sources that can conflict with each other.

Effective Collaboration

Primary care physicians work together with other health care professionals and make healthcare efficient. They work closely with nurses, social workers, and other health professionals to offer patients the best treatment for their conditions. This way, patients get the best care possible under one roof.

In summary, primary care is vital for various reasons. It focuses on the prevention and management of multiple conditions through continual care. It also promotes overall health and wellbeing and allows for informed decisions among medical experts through effective collaboration.

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