Tetanus, which is sometimes referred to as Lock Jaw is caused by bacteria known as Clostridium tetani. It is feared that when someone receives a wound such as a puncture or a cut this form of bacteria will enter the bloodstream and affect the nerve function leading to muscle spasms in the stomach, neck, hands, and feet. It may be localized in reaction or system-wide. The term...
Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion
With the temperatures heating up, many of us will be spending more and more of our time outside. The summer is a great time to really enjoy the outdoors. A lot of us take this opportunity to swim, boat, hike, camp, and more. However, as fun as all this outdoor summer activity is, there is a threat that lurks around the proverbial corner. Heat exhaustion is a...
What to expect during a Yearly Wellness Exam
The annual wellness exam can last from a half hour to an hour depending on your health and your physician. It will start with a personal HRA (Health Risk Assessment). This includes health history, family health history, and head to toe physical exam. Your doctor will take note of any physical complaints or maladies you currently have as well. The family history can be...
How to Identify and Treat Heat Stroke
Intense heat can be a real problem for the human body. Many people move to or visit southern Florida because of its sun and fun, but the sun can also be a potentially dangerous thing. Especially for those who are over 50, heat stroke is a serious and potentially fatal problem. Heat stroke, often called sunstroke, is a medical emergency. Heat stroke doesn’t come on...
Emergency Room, Urgent Care or Regular Doctor?
Being treated in an emergency care facility may be convenient but it also generally costs two to three times for than a standard doctor. Here are some helpful tips on how to decide if you really need to go to the ER. Call 911 immediately if you or someone else: Has stopped breathing Is choking Has sustained head injury Is passing out, fainting, or has confusion Has possibly...