Learning you have hypothyroidism can suddenly explain the variety of the symptoms you’ve been experiencing. It can explain why you’ve struggled with weight gain or why your hair is suddenly thinning. While receiving a diagnosis can answer those questions, you might be left with more questions like “Why do I...
Even if you feel fine, an annual checkup is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Annual exams are an important part of your health care. From receiving vaccines to monitoring for any potential red flags, annual exams make sure you’re on the right track. Here at Family...
While it makes sense to think that being overweight is the only cause of a double chin, the reality is that double chins can be the result of genetics, facial structure, and even your age. This means that even if your diet and workout routine is on par, it can...
Although many conversations about diabetes focus on blood sugar, the reality is that complications from unmanaged diabetes can affect your whole body. The dangers of unmanaged diabetes are particularly alarming when you consider how many adults have diabetes but don’t yet realize it. About 7.2 million Americans are unaware that...
Although COVID-19 is a novel — new — coronavirus, we’re continuing to learn more and more about it every day. One thing we know is that individuals with underlying health conditions are more at risk for developing complications from COVID-19. But that’s where family medicine comes in. At Family First...
Are you tired of trying to hide a double chin with a pretty scarf, a turtleneck, or even with a well-placed braid? We know double chins are embarrassing and a hit to your self-esteem. Double chins can affect anyone, even if you’re already at your goal weight. In fact, genetics,...
Hypothyroidism affects 5 in 100 Americans, but most cases are mild. And because many cases are mild, it’s easy to overlook some of the most common symptoms. Not to be confused with hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive or slow thyroid. Because your thyroid gland isn’t producing enough hormones,...
An estimated 16 million Americans are currently diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to the American Lung Association. But it’s likely that even more men and women have COPD but just don’t realize it yet. That’s because the symptoms of COPD can develop slowly over the years. COPD...
Be aware that some medical conditions can develop without your knowledge or obvious symptoms. For example, do you know what high blood pressure feels like? Unless you’re in the later stages of the condition, it’s unlikely you’ll notice any symptoms until it’s reached dangerous levels.Many conditions produce clues only to...
You’ve diligently stuck to a weight-loss plan that included healthy eating, portion control, and exercise. As a result, you’ve lost weight and achieved your goal of pounds lost on the scale. But, stubborn pockets of fat keep you from having the physique that fills you with confidence. Clothes don’t fit...
Are you stressed out? You may think stress is all in your mind. But the way you manage stress can affect your body, too. Most critically, stress can make your blood pressure soar, making you a prime candidate for heart disease and stroke. Dr. Samantha Lindsay and the team at...
