General

The Importance of Hydration: How Much Water Do You Really Need?

Water is essential for life. It is vital for our body to function correctly. But how much water do we really need every day to keep us healthy? Let’s find out.

Importance of Hydration for Overall Health

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Water helps our bodies perform many essential functions, from regulating body temperature to keeping joints lubricated. Some of the key benefits of hydration include:

  • Supports cognitive function to help enhance concentration, memory, and mood stability.
  • Maintains blood volume and effective transportation of nutrients and oxygen to different tissues around the body.
  • Assists with digestion and makes saliva to break down foods.
  • Maintains healthy skin by keeping it moisturized and aids in the repair of skin cells.
  • Keeps the organs functioning properly, such as helping the kidneys to get rid of waste products.
  • Ensures that the cardiovascular system operates efficiently, reducing the likelihood of heart-related issues.
  • Regulates body temperature through sweat production and respiration.
  • Protects the brain and spinal cord (and fetus during pregnancy), acting as a shock absorber.
  • Makes up the synovial fluid that lubricates and cushions the joints.
  • Keeps the eyes lubricated and healthy.

In addition to promoting good health, keeping hydrated also helps prevent headaches and fatigue (common symptoms of dehydration) and the development of urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, and constipation. It can also improve sleep quality.

For athletes and those engaging in physical activity, staying hydrated improves performance and endurance, while also aiding in post-exercise recovery. Ultimately, good hydration is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle, benefiting both the mind and body.

Signs of Dehydration to Look Out For

Dehydration occurs when your body loses more water than it consumes. The color of your urine can be used as a good indicator of when you need to drink more. Here are the main signs to watch for:

  • Dry mouth
  • Dark and strong-smelling urine
  • Feeling thirsty
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Dizziness

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to drink more water.

Daily Water Intake Recommendations

The quantity of water you need depends on various factors. However, the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that the adequate daily fluid intake for an average healthy adult living in a temperate climate to be:

  • Approximately 3.7 liters (15.5 cups) of fluids a day for men
  • Approximately 2.7 liters (11.5 cups) of fluids a day for women

These recommendations include fluids from drinks and food, with approximately 20% of daily fluid intake usually coming from food. Although plain water is best, all fluids (apart from alcohol) count towards the recommended daily intake, helping to keep you hydrated.

What you eat also contributes significantly to your daily water intake. Many fruits and vegetables, like watermelon, cucumber, and spinach, are composed of almost 100% water by weight.

Factors That Affect Your Hydration Needs

According to the Mayo Clinic, your hydration needs can change based on factors, such as:

  • Physical Activity: When exercising, a significant amount of water is lost through sweat. If you exercise, you must drink more to replace lost fluids.
  • Health Conditions: Certain illnesses and medications can affect how much water you need. Experiencing vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration (especially in young children) due to loss of fluids. During illness, it is essential to increase water intake to compensate for this fluid loss and maintain proper hydration levels.
  • Age: Older adults are more vulnerable to dehydration due to physiological changes that occur as a part of the aging process, such as a reduction in renal function.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Causes you to lose more fluid, therefore, you may need additional fluids to stay hydrated.
  • Weather: Hot or humid weather makes you sweat more, so you need more water during the summer.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol leads to an increase in urine production, which can result in dehydration. It is important to limit alcohol consumption and drink water to maintain hydration when consuming alcohol.

Tips for Staying Properly Hydrated

The key to staying hydrated is to start drinking in the morning and continue drinking regularly throughout the day. Here are some simple tips to help you stay hydrated:

  • Carry a water bottle with you all day.
  • Drink water before, during, and after exercise.
  • Eat water-rich foods like vegetables and fruits daily.
  • Set reminders to drink water throughout the day.
  • Always have a glass of water with meals.

Myths About Hydration

There are many myths about hydration. One prevalent myth suggests that everyone requires eight glasses of water a day. While it’s a good general guideline, individual needs may vary. It’s also a myth that caffeinated drinks dehydrate you. While they can have a stimulating effect, causing the body to produce urine more quickly, they can still contribute to your daily fluid intake.

Family Doctor in Wellington, Florida

At Advanced Medical in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida, we care about your health. Our experienced and compassionate internal and family medicine providers offer personalized treatment. With a focus on preventive care, we will work with you to keep you and your loved ones in optimal health.

We value the patient-provider relationship and aim to provide exceptional service. If you seek evidence-based medical care, request an appointment or call us at (561) 434-1935 today. We offer walk-in and same-day appointments for your convenience.

Keeping hydrated can improve your overall health and well-being. Keep these tips in mind, and remember, if you have any health concerns, we are here to help. Stay healthy and hydrated!

 

Navigating Chronic Conditions: How Family Medicine Nurse Practitioners Provide Comprehensive Support

Millions of people in the United States live with chronic conditions. These conditions can be debilitating and life-changing when they aren’t managed well, but they don’t have to be. With the right support, people with chronic conditions can live long and healthy lives.

Primary care providers play a vital role in providing support for people with chronic conditions. In this article, we’ll explore exactly how they help.

How Primary Care Providers Support Patients

Primary care providers are the first point of contact for many people with chronic conditions. They play an important role in managing these conditions by providing comprehensive care that includes:

Regular Checkups and Monitoring

Primary care providers keep track of a patient’s health over time, monitoring their symptoms, lab results, and medications. This helps identify any changes in their condition, so that treatment can be adjusted as needed.

Education and Counseling

Primary care providers educate patients about their condition and how to manage it. They also provide counseling on lifestyle changes that can help improve their health, such as:

  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Exercising regularly
  • Quitting smoking

Medication Management

Primary care providers prescribe medications to help control symptoms and prevent complications of chronic diseases. They also monitor patients’ responses to medications and make adjustments as needed.

Referrals to Specialists

When a patient’s condition requires the care of a specialist, such as a cardiologist or endocrinologist, their primary care provider will typically make the referral.

Coordinator of Care

Primary care providers often coordinate care with other healthcare providers, such as nurses, social workers, specialists, and mental health professionals. This helps ensure that patients receive the care they need from a team of experts.

How Primary Care Providers Can Improve Chronic Disease Management

Primary care providers can improve chronic disease management in a number of ways, including:

Empowering Patients

Primary care providers can help patients take control of their health by empowering them to make informed decisions about their care. This includes providing education and counseling, as well as helping patients set goals and track their progress.

Using Technology

Primary care providers can use technology to improve chronic disease management. This includes:

  • Using electronic health records to track patients’ health data
  • Providing telehealth visits
  • Using mobile apps to help patients manage their condition

Working with Other Healthcare Providers

Primary care providers can work with other healthcare providers to improve chronic disease management. This includes collaborating with specialists, nurses, social workers, and mental health professionals to create a coordinated care plan for each patient.

Focusing on Prevention

Primary care providers can focus on preventing chronic diseases by educating patients about healthy lifestyles and providing screenings for conditions that they may be high risk for based on their current health profile.

Helping Patients Find Resources in Their Community

There are many resources available to help people with chronic conditions, such as support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance programs. Primary care providers can help patients to find these resources and connect with them.

Advocating for Patients

Primary care providers can advocate for patients with chronic conditions by working with insurance companies to get coverage for needed medications and treatments. They can also advocate for patients with their employers to get accommodations that make it easier for them to work.

When to Visit a Primary Care Provider  for Chronic Condition Management

In addition to the regular checkups and monitoring that your primary care provider will schedule for you, there are other times when you may need to see them for your chronic condition, such as the following instances:

When Your Symptoms Change

If your symptoms get worse, or if you develop new symptoms, it is important to see your primary care provider right away. This could be a sign that your condition is getting worse or that your treatment needs to be adjusted.

When You’re Having Trouble Managing Your Condition

Talk to your primary care provider if you are having trouble taking your medications, following your diet, or exercising. They can help you develop a plan to make it easier to manage your condition.

When You Start a New Medication

When you start a new medication for your chronic condition, it is important to see your primary care provider regularly to monitor your response to the medication. This will help ensure that the medication is effective and that you are not experiencing any serious side effects.

When You’re Pregnant or Planning to Conceive Soon

Your primary care provider can help you to manage your chronic condition safely during pregnancy and childbirth.

When You’re Having a Flare-Up

A flare-up is a period when certain chronic conditions get worse temporarily. If you are having a flare-up, your family medicine provider can help you manage and prevent it from getting worse.

The Best Primary Care Provider Near You in Wellington, FL

Primary care providers offer regular checkups, education and counseling, medication management, and referrals to specialists. They also coordinate care with other healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive the care they need. Beyond the medical aspects, family medicine providers also provide emotional support and encouragement. They listen to patients’ concerns and help them cope.

Are you in search of the best family medicine provider near you in Wellington? If so, you can rely on the highly skilled and experienced healthcare providers at Advanced Medical Clinic, the best Wellington family practice. You may reach us today at (561) 434-1935 or book an appointment using our online request form. The best primary care providers in Wellington look forward to serving you.

Choosing the Right Primary Care Provider: Tips for Finding a Healthcare Partner

When you’re feeling under the weather, a primary care provider is the best provider to go to. People entrust their health and well-being to these healthcare professionals, and it’s important to find a primary care provider who you can trust. Your provider will be your first point of contact for most medical problems, and they will play a vital role in your overall health and wellness.

But finding the right primary care provider isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you choose the right primary care provider for you. So, whether you’re new to the area or just looking for a change, read on for our tips on choosing the right primary care provider.

Why Is It Important to Have a Primary Care Provider?

Your primary care provider is your first line of defense when it comes to your health. They are the primary care provider who will see you for routine checkups, help you manage your chronic conditions, and provide you with care for minor illnesses and injuries.

A primary care provider will know your medical history and provide continuous care. They’ll be the one to coordinate your care with other healthcare providers, help you make important lifestyle changes, and provide support for your health concerns. That’s why you need to choose the right family medicine provider. The wrong one can make it difficult to get the care you need and can even lead to worse health outcomes.

Qualities Your Chosen Primary Care Provider Should Have

Before you start finding a lifelong healthcare partner for your primary care, know what you should look for in your chosen family medicine provider. Here is a list of qualities and qualifications to keep in mind as you look for a primary care provider:

  • Communication skills: Your primary care provider should be able to effectively communicate with you in a way that you understand. They should also be able to answer your questions and address your concerns.
  • Empathy: The best providers can understand and empathize with your situation. They should be patient and understanding as you work with them.
  • Medical knowledge: A qualified primary care provider should have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide you with quality care. They should be up to date on the latest medical advances and trained to diagnose and treat a wide array of conditions.
  • Experience: It is important to find a healthcare partner who has experience in treating patients with your condition, so they can provide you with the best possible care.

Tips For Choosing The Right Primary Care Provider

Choosing a primary care provider means entrusting them with your health and well-being. It can be a challenging task to find the right primary care provider for you. Here are six tips that can help you find and choose the right primary care provider to trust with your health.

Ask For Recommendations From People You Trust

This could be your family, friends, coworkers, or other healthcare providers. They may be able to give you personal insights into the primary care providers they know and trust. Additionally, they can also share their own experiences with their own providers.

Do Your Research

There are many resources available to help you research PCPs in your area. You can check online directories, review websites of clinics and primary care providers, or even call your insurance company for recommendations.

Consider Your Needs And Preferences

Think about what’s important to you in a PCP. Do you want someone who is located close to your home or work? Do you prefer a male or female primary care provider? Do you need someone who speaks a specific language? If you have a unique need, it’s okay to search for a provider who meets the bill.

Schedule a Visit With Potential Providers

This is the best way to get to know a PCP and see if they are a good fit for you. During the visit, don’t be afraid to ask questions to get to know them and their practice better. Consider the following questions to ask to help you make your decision:

  • What are your office hours?
  • What are your specialties?
  • How do you prefer communicating with patients outside of the office?
  • How do you handle patient concerns?
  • What is your approach to preventive care?
  • What is your philosophy of care?

Trust Your Gut and Make a Decision

When you’re meeting with potential primary care providers, pay attention to your gut feeling. Do you feel comfortable with them? Do you feel like they are listening to you? If you don’t feel a connection, it’s okay to keep looking.

Primary Care Provider Near Me

Your primary care provider will be your go-to for any health concerns you may have. They’ll play an important role in ensuring your health and well-being. That’s why choosing a primary care provider is an important decision that can affect your health for years to come. By following these tips, you can find a primary care provider who is right for you and who will provide you with the care you need.

Are you looking for a trusted primary care provider  near you? Experience high-quality care with our primary care providers at Advanced Medical in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida. We provide a wide array of comprehensive and compassionate primary care services rooted in evidence-based medicine for our patient’s better health. If you have any inquiries, call us at (561) 434-1935 or you can also request for an appointment online.

We will be there for you and your family, so you can live a healthy full life!

Managing Chronic Conditions: How Primary Care Providers Provide Ongoing Support

Managing chronic conditions is an enduring challenge that requires a comprehensive and patient-centric approach. As the first point of contact for patients, primary care providers are uniquely positioned to provide ongoing support in this arduous journey.

This article delves into the various ways these medical professionals help patients manage their chronic conditions effectively.

The Role of Primary Care Providers in Chronic Disease Management

Primary care providers play an instrumental role in the continuum of care for patients with chronic diseases. They are often the first to diagnose these conditions, drawing from their broad knowledge of various body systems and medical disciplines. Once a diagnosis has been made, these family medicine providers develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the unique needs and circumstances of each patient.

Coordinating Comprehensive Care

Coordinating care among various healthcare providers is one of the key roles of a primary care provider. Given the complex nature of chronic diseases, patients often require specialized care from different medical professionals. As the main healthcare provider, the family medicine provider ensures seamless communication and collaboration among these specialists. This ensures that the care provided is cohesive and effective.

Patient Education and Empowerment

Apart from providing medical care, primary care providers also empower patients to take control of their health. They educate patients about:

  • Their condition
  • The importance of adhering to their treatment plan
  • The lifestyle changes required to manage their disease better

By doing so, they equip patients to navigate their health journey confidently.

Monitoring Progress and Making Adjustments

Managing chronic conditions is not a one-time event but rather a continuous process that requires regular monitoring and adjustment. Primary care providers regularly assess the effectiveness of a patient’s treatment plan. Then, they make necessary adjustments based on the patient’s progress and needs. They also monitor the patient’s overall health and well-being, identifying and addressing any new health issues that may arise.

How to Find the Best Primary Care Provider

Here are some tips to help you find the best primary care provider in Wellington.

Consider Your Health Needs

First, think about your health needs and which primary care model would suit you best. Understanding your health needs will help you narrow down your search.

Seek Recommendations

Ask your friends, family members, neighbors, or coworkers if they have a primary care provider they like and trust. Personal experiences can give you insights into the primary care provider’s approach to patient care, their professionalism, and their expertise.

Research Their Expertise

Look for a primary care provider with expertise that meets your health needs. If you have a specific chronic condition, you may want to find a provider who specializes in treating that condition. Also, consider the primary care provider’s approach to healthcare.

Location and Accessibility

Consider the location of the primary care provider’s office. Is it close to your home or work? Does the office offer evening or weekend hours to accommodate your schedule?

Review Their Credentials

You can check if a primary care provider is in good standing with your state’s licensing agency through websites run by administrators of several state medical boards. You want a primary care provider who has a clean record and is board-certified.

When to See Your Primary Care Provider

Primary care providers are not just for annual check-ups or when you’re feeling unwell. They play a crucial role in maintaining your overall health and managing chronic conditions.

Regular Health Check-Ups

Regular health check-ups are essential for detecting potential health issues before they become serious. These appointments allow your provider to:

  • Assess your overall health
  • Monitor any existing conditions
  • Screen for risk factors of chronic diseases

Changes in Your Health Status

If you notice any changes in your health, it’s essential to see your primary care provider. This could include:

  • New symptoms
  • Worsening of existing symptoms
  • Changes in your physical or mental well-being

Early detection of health issues often leads to more effective treatment and better outcomes.

Managing Chronic Conditions

Do you have a chronic condition like diabetes, heart disease, or asthma? If so, regular visits to your primary care provider are crucial. These visits allow your provider to:

  • Monitor your condition
  • Adjust your treatment plan as needed
  • Provide ongoing support to help you manage your health

Medication Refills or Adjustments

If you take prescription medication, you’ll need to see your primary care provider for refills. These appointments also give your provider the opportunity to assess how well the medication is working.

Preventive Care

Preventive care visits, such as immunizations and screenings, are another reason to see your primary care provider.

Lifestyle Advice

Your primary care provider can provide valuable advice on lifestyle changes to improve your health. This can include guidance on:

  • Nutrition
  • Physical activity
  • Stress management
  • Other aspects of healthy living

Top Primary Care Provider Near You in Wellington, FL

In the face of the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, the role of primary care providers in managing these conditions is more critical than ever. Through their expertise, commitment, and patient-centric approach, they provide ongoing support to patients. They help people lead healthier and more fulfilling lives despite their chronic conditions.

Looking for the top primary care provider near you in Wellington? You can rely on the highly skilled and experienced healthcare providers at Advanced Medical. Led by Dr. Ishan Gunawardene, our team will make sure you get the best care for your chronic condition. You may reach out to our friendly staff today at (561) 434-1935. You can also book a visit with the best primary care provider in Wellington with our secure online appointment request form.

We look forward to helping you manage your chronic condition!

10 Things to Ask Your Family Medicine Provider

Being open with your family medicine provider is essential. They can help assess and evaluate you for any symptoms and allow you to understand your body better. The more comfortable and transparent you are with them, the easier it will be to achieve better health.

Here are ten things to ask your family medicine provider about when you visit them for a consultation or check-up:

1. Questions About Medical Tests And Assessments

Medical screenings are crucial tools for detecting illnesses. Your family medicine provider may require you to undergo various ones during your check-up.

While assessments and screenings are not uncommon, it’s still good to know what will happen during the procedure. Before you proceed, ask them to explain how you’ll benefit from the medical test.

Your family medicine provider should tell you the procedure’s details, how the findings will help their assessment, and how much it will cost.

X-rays, blood exams, and urine tests can help your family medicine provider inspect any abnormalities in your body. Some procedures, such as glaucoma tests, mammograms, and Pap smears,can aid in diagnosing serious illnesses.

2. Questions About Diagnoses

Once you’ve gone through all the needed medical assessments, your family medicine provider will arrive at a diagnosis for your condition. Ask them to provide as much detail about it as possible.

Your family medicine provider should also tell you how they arrived at a conclusion based on your test results. They will then talk to you about the nature of your condition, its treatments, and how to keep symptoms at bay.

You should ask about how long your condition could last, what steps to take, and how to prevent it from worsening.

3. Questions About Medications

If your family medicine provider has given you a prescription for a medication, you can ask them to discuss its dosage and side effects. Your family medicine provider will prescribe the correct dosage, the interval of hours for taking it, and the total duration of treatment.

Ask your family medicine provider for possible contraindications if you take other medications, like over-the-counter drugs, birth control pills, and vitamins, to ensure non negative interactions occur.

4. Questions About Surgery

For patients scheduled to undergo surgery, a visit to a family medicine provider can help with preparation. Ask your family medicine provider what they know about the specific surgery you’re about to go through.

Since your family medicine provider knows your medical history, they can talk to you about possible side effects or risks. You can also ask them to coordinate with your surgeon to ensure a smooth procedure. If steps need to be taken to make you healthier prior to surgery, your family medicine provider can help with that.

5. Questions About Diet Changes

You can ask your family medicine provider if you plan to change your diet. Your provider can help you plan a balanced nutrition plan to ensure you’re not cutting out any essential nutrients.

They can also let you know whether or not you need to make a diet change in the first place. Severely underweight or overweight patients will be encouraged to do so. However, your family medicine provider may not recommend it if you’re already at a healthy weight.

Patients with specific conditions like diabetes and high blood cholesterol may need to avoid particular foods. Ask your family medicine provider to discuss in detail what you can include in your new diet plan.

6. Questions About Sleep Habits

If you’re experiencing sleep issues, you can ask your family medicine provider about safe intervention options to take. They may prescribe aids like sleeping pills or over-the-counter melatonin. Calming teas and hot beverages may also help.

Your family medicine provider can help you plan a nighttime sleep routine, too. Ask them about the science behind getting long, uninterrupted sleep to understand why healthy sleep habits are vital.

7. Questions About Exercise

Your family family medicine provider can recommend an appropriate exercise plan for your specific health conditions or state of health.

For example, if you’re an office worker who spends long hours sitting down, your family medicine provider may prescribe at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. Overweight patients might be encouraged to do more workouts to reach their weight loss goals.

People who suffered from an injury or are recovering from surgery can also consult their family medicine provider for exercise recommendations. Make sure to ask questions about what specific exercises you should do, and how to prevent injuries when exercising.

8. Questions About Your Family Medical History

Your family medicine provider knows all about your medical history, including that of your family. Ask them what illnesses and sicknesses you may develop due to being high risk as a result of your family medical history.

Ask them about precautions to take to avoid the same medical conditions your family members have. If you already have them, you can ask your family medicine provider about proper management.

9. Questions About Pain

Consult your family medicine provider if you’re experiencing any discomfort or pain. Even if it’s just mild pain, it could indicate something going on in your body, especially if it is unexplained or is chronic.

Your family medicine provider can help you get to the root cause of the pain and recommend treatment options. Most of the time, they will prescribe over-the-counter drugs or minor lifestyle changes to help you recover.

Your family medicine provider will guide you through a treatment plan for severe cases. Be transparent with them regarding your symptoms, so they may evaluate you accordingly. Ask them what could be causing the pain and what steps you can take to reduce the pain naturally. You should also what signs to look out for that indicate you need medical attention regarding your pain.

10. Questions About Future Visits

Don’t forget to ask your family medicine provider about what to do until your next visit. They may recommend medications, therapy, or medical tests to do until the next appointment.

Also, ask them about the frequency of your visits. Regular check-ups are essential to staying healthy. People with chronic medical conditions may need more frequent family medicine provider visits.

Family Medicine Near You In Wellington, FL

When visiting a family medicine provider, patients should ask about all things related to their health. These include medical tests, diagnoses, treatment options, surgery implications, possible diet changes, changes to sleep habits, exercise plans, and much more.

We at Advanced Medical Clinic are proud to serve as a family practice in Wellington. Dr. Ishan Gunawardene is happy to answer all your questions about your health. Dr. Gunawardene is a board-certified internist who can help you stay on top of your health. Call us at (561) 434-1935for inquiries. You can also schedule an appointment with the best family medicine provider in Wellington by submitting an online request form.

Tips for Managing Arthritis Pain

If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from arthritis, you know that finding ways to effectively manage the pain that comes with your condition is central to maintaining your mobility and overall quality of life.

In this post, you’ll learn about a few strategies that can help you ease arthritis pain and live well with it.

Tip #1 Make Positive Lifestyle Changes.

While the medications and other treatments that your primary care provider prescribed can help manage arthritis pain, the very things that you do on a daily basis have a significant impact on the outcome of your condition.

Having a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet and regular exercise can help with gradual weight loss and reduce your risk for flare-ups. Weight is of particular concern because the additional strain on your affected joint can cause further damage to it. Excess weight and chronic inflammation also go hand in hand.

If you smoke, it’s time to snuff the habit. Cigarette smoke makes arthritis pain worse, as it triggers the body to release cytokines, which are key modulators of inflammation.

Tip #2 Work Closely with Your Primary Care Provider.

Your primary care provider is an integral part of your healthcare team. They are not only there to coordinate your care and monitor your condition; they also serve as your accountability partner – to provide you with support and guidance, ensure treatment adherence, and reinforce healthy lifestyle changes.

Tip #3 Learn to Cope with Stress.

Research suggests that stress compounds the discomfort associated with arthritis, as it can cause endocrine and immune system dysfunction, leading to sustained low-grade inflammation.

While it can be easy to be pulled down by your negative thoughts when dealing with arthritis pain, always keep in mind that focusing on them will only make things worse. It will not only exacerbate the pain but also contribute to the progression of your condition.

There are many things you can do to cope with stress. Employ relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing. Surround yourself with people you love and who support you. Additionally, consider talking to a therapist or joining a support group; your primary care provider may be able to recommend one for you. Respond to unwanted thoughts by taking positive action.

Primary Care Provider in Wellington, FL

At Advanced Medical Clinic, our team includes a board-certified internal medicine provider and a board-certified family nurse practitioner, who have helped scores of patients suffering from arthritis and many other chronic health problems live and thrive with their conditions.

Call us today at (561) 434-1935 or book an appointment online to arrange a consultation with Dr. Gunawardene or our family NP, Shariffa Gunawardene. We look forward to providing you with the high-quality health care you deserve!

A Checklist in Choosing the Best Family Provider

It’s important to find the best family medicine provider, whether for routine checkups or a major surgery. By doing so, you can be confident in the care you receive every time.

After all, your health largely hinges on the treatment they recommend and administer for you. Let’s talk about the key factors in finding an excellent family medicine provider, and where you can go in Wellington for top-notch medical care for you and your family.

How to Find an Outstanding Family Medicine Provider

Here’s what you should consider when choosing the best family medicine provider:

Get Referrals and Recommendations

Your family medicine provider will be your primary care provider, so you can start looking by asking the people you trust. Talk to your family, friends, or colleagues about family providers they recommend. You can even ask other providers you’ve worked with for referrals, such as your endocrinologist or your eye family medicine provider.

You can go online and read the provider’s patient reviews posted on various websites to get a feel for what they’re like. There may also be testimonials from some of their current and previous patients.

Consider Your Insurance

Once you have names of provider’s to consider, check your health insurance coverage to make sure they’re covered by your insurance policy. If you’re interested in a family medicine provider who is not on your list, then call that provider’s office and ask them whether they do indeed accept your particular insurance – and be sure to write down the name of the staff person you spoke to.

Check the Family Provider’s Qualifications and Experience

When looking for a healthcare provider, the lead family medicine provider in the practice should ideally be board-certified. Board certification means that a family medicine provider is staying on top of the latest in medical technologies and methods, and this involves continuing education at medical conferences and seminars.

Being board-certified indicates career-long learning, so you can rest assured that the provider continues to hone their skills. You do not want a family medicine provider who continues to perform the same tests and methods they learned in medical school if provider’s today are actually using much more advanced methods and technologies for more accurate and beneficial results.

Experience is also crucial. Your ideal family medicine provider will have spent much of their time caring for patients with similar conditions as you have, because family medicine provider by nature deal with patients who have myriad health conditions on a constant basis.

If you want to be sure, call the practice and ask them whether the family medicine provider handles patients who have chronic conditions like yours – whether it be arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and so on. Do not hesitate to make that call.

Think About Convenience

Choose a healthcare provider who has a convenient location and has office hours that work with your schedule. You do not want inconvenience to become an excuse not to go to the family medicine provider for a checkup.

Family Medicine Provider for Arthritis in Wellington, FL

It’s important to find a primary care provider in whom you can place your full confidence, especially if you have a chronic condition such as arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, a neurological condition, or anything else. If you’re looking for a trusted family medicine provider whose office is conveniently located in Wellington, look no further than Advanced Medical Clinic. We have a team of highly experienced, board-certified providers who can give you the comprehensive care you deserve.

Advanced Medical Clinic is located in the Palomino Park medical complex on the west side of Highway 441, between Forest Hill Boulevard and Lake Worth Road in Wellington. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call our friendly staff today at (561) 434-1935 or complete our secure online appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!

What Can a Walk-In Clinic Treat?

When you need medical care for an injury or health problem, there are a variety of family medicine providers and health centers you can visit. It is important to select the right one for your specific situation. One of the most common and popular health facilities you can visit is a walk-in clinic.

A walk-in clinic allows patients to conveniently see a primary care provider without the need for an appointment. This is particularly beneficial if someone has an urgent health care need that’s not an emergency or if they have a hectic schedule that makes scheduling appointments in advance difficult.

Before you visit, you should understand what a walk-in clinic’s scope of practice is. So, let’s discuss some of the many issues the family medicine providers at walk-in clinics treat.

Respiratory Infections

Walk-in clinic providers routinely treat respiratory infections. They will give you a checkup, assess your symptoms, listen to your breathing, and maybe even conduct an X-ray. Based on what they find, you will get a diagnosis for a respiratory infection as well as a treatment plan.

Clinic providers can prescribe medications, including antibiotics. Many clinics even send prescriptions directly to your choice of pharmacy, so all you have to do after leaving is pick up your medications at your selected facility.

Earaches

One of the most common issues family medicine providers at walk-in clinics diagnose and treat are earaches. You can have an earache for many reasons, including an infection, sinus pressure, an injury, and more. Earaches are particularly common among children. When earaches are accompanied by fever and hearing loss, they become particularly worrisome.

A walk-in clinic has the necessary tools, such as an otoscope, to diagnose such problems. You can also receive the necessary treatment, such as antibiotics. If the problem is extensive or the underlying cause requires a specialists’ diagnosis and treatment, you will be advised as such.

Vomiting or Persistent Diarrhea

Vomiting or diarrhea that is continuous for more than one day is a common reason to visit a walk-in clinic. Vomiting and diarrhea may be signs of gastroenteritis – the medical term for a viral infection in the digestive tract. These symptoms could also indicate you have food poisoning. Regardless of the cause, having prolonged symptoms can be detrimental to your health, because you can become dehydrated and malnourished within days. That’s why it is important to seek medical care if your symptoms last longer than a day.

Sports Injuries

One of the most common reasons why patients visit walk-in clinics is sports injuries. It is important to seek medical care for injuries immediately after they occur, because prolonging treatment can make recovery longer and more complicated – not to mention you will have to endure uncomfortable symptoms for a longer period of time. Walk-in clinics can immediately perform X-rays and other imaging tests to get to the root cause of your injury. Athletic injuries include soft tissue damage that occurs when you overuse, overwork, or overstretch a muscle, ligament, or tendon. It also includes fractures. With these conditions, you may have pain, swelling, bruising, or a decrease in flexion or function. You may also notice you can’t bear weight or use a particular body part like you normally could.

Walk-in clinics have equipment to assess your injury, give an accurate diagnosis, and recommend treatment. If your injury is severe, you may be instructed to go to an orthopedic family medicine provider or the emergency room. However, for most mild to moderate injuries, a walk-in clinic is fully equipped to provide treatment.

Cuts and Wounds

You can also visit a walk-in clinic to get cuts and wounds dressed. Such injuries can occur while performing chores, playing sports, or doing hobbies. They can also occur at work or during car accidents. Walk-in clinics can clean and dress up wounds, as well as provide stitches.

Walk-in Clinic in Royal Palm and Wellington, Florida

Advanced Medical Clinic is a walk-in practice that offers a variety of treatments for a plethora of health issues and injuries. If you are looking for a family medicine provider you can visit whenever you need care, we are happy to help.

For more information, call Advanced Medical Clinic at (561) 434-1935 for an appointment or just walk in! For non-pressing issues, you may use our online appointment booking tool.

What To Expect From A Walk-In Clinic

It’s understandable to be concerned when you suddenly get sick or develop pain and cannot get an appointment with your primary care provider immediately. A common alternative is visiting a hospital emergency room for medical care, but the costs will be astronomical, along with the wait times. Fortunately, you have another option: walk-in clinics.

Walk-in clinics accept patients without previously scheduled appointments and provide urgent medical care for a variety of common and non-life-threatening conditions.

What Can I Expect From A Walk-In Clinic?

You can receive multiple services from a walk-in clinic. You will be assigned to an attending family medicine provider who will assist and provide you medical care. Here are things you can expect from your visit:

Treatment For Common Conditions

Walk-in clinics are the place to go if you’re experiencing common health problems. These conditions are usually mild but can cause you concern and discomfort – especially if you can’t get medical care from your primary care provider for several days. The following are common issues that can be treated during your visit:

Imaging And Laboratory Tests

Some walk-in clinics are also able to perform imaging and lab tests to aid in diagnosis. Your attending family medicine provider will recommend these based on your signs and symptoms. Common tests that may be conducted are urine and blood analysis, x-rays, electrocardiography (ECG), and ultrasounds.

Depending on your results, the attending provider will decide if you can be treated in-house, need prescription medication, or need a specialist. Your family medicine provider may also recommend more tests for a definitive diagnosis.

Urgent Care

Walk-in clinics can address numerous non-life-threatening problems that need urgent medical attention. These include injuries from small accidents like minor fractures, sprains, and burns. With walk-in clinics, you can expect quality and timely medical care without worrying about steep expenses.

However, you should also be aware of when to seek emergency care. Trouble breathing, chest pain, continuously high fever, and severe pain after an accident are things to look out for. If you are experiencing a life-threatening situation, you are advised to call emergency services or go to your local ER.

Convenience

Going to a walk-in clinic has several advantages, including convenient hours, short waiting times, and cost-efficient medical care.

If you don’t have time during the day to consult with a family medicine provider, some walk-in clinics are open after work hours or accept calls 24 hours a day. Medical costs are also reasonably lower for consultations, tests, and treatments. Services such as physical tests for school or work and pregnancy ultrasounds are also available in most walk-in clinics.

Walk-In Clinic In Wellington And Royal Palm Beach, FL

If you need urgent medical attention, Advanced Medical will ensure you get the proper care you deserve. Our compassionate primary care providers also accept same-day walk-in appointments to address conditions and concerns you may have.

To learn more about our services, call our office at (561) 434-1935 or request an appointment online. We have clinics in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach that are ready to provide you with quality healthcare. We look forward to serving you!

Headaches in the Summer

People who have chronic headaches may notice that they can worsen during the summer months, especially for those who suffer from migraines. Researchers still haven’t pinpointed the cause behind migraines, but according to the Migraine Research Foundation, researchers have concluded migraines are neurological disorders that involve nerve pathways and brain chemicals.

You may not suffer from migraine headaches, but if you find that headaches occur more often for you during the summer months, then summer headache triggers could be to blame. Here are some reasons why.

Allergens

Allergens that are present during the summer months pose a threat to persons suffering from headaches. Hay fever is big during summer and can cause headaches as it affects sinus nasal passages. Sinus headaches are characterized by facial pain, throbbing on one-side of the head and are exacerbated by light, especially sunlight. Headaches can originate in the sinus area, however; these types of headaches aren’t always diagnosed as sinus headaches and could be migraines. Seek a family medicine provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Humidity

High humidity can trigger headaches for people who are prone to them. Think ahead. Your local weatherman or weather apps you can download to your phone are great resources for anticipating when you may have a headache brought on by humidity and other weather-related events. This will allow you to take preventative action before the onset of a headache. Ask your family medicine provider about taking an over-the-counter medication before a headache occurs.

Barometric Pressure

As barometric pressure decreases the chance of a headache increases. Even a slight change in atmospheric pressure can trigger headaches, especially when it’s humid and stormy.  Headaches can also be caused by changes in altitude as folks fly away on summer vacation or hike vertically up hills and mountains. Also, there is more storm activity during the summer and this, in turn, can also be a trigger.

Summer Lifestyle

We have a tendency to enjoy a few lifestyle changes during the summer. More people take a vacation and even those who don’t take some time in the sun by the pool, on a summer picnic or at the beach. We also tend to cook outdoors and enjoy the company of friends. Basically, we take advantage of every waking hour of daylight to have as much fun as possible. We may have more fun, but the lifestyle change also affects our bodies. Balance your summer lifestyle to ward off headaches.

Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when the body is losing more fluid than it is taking in. Becoming dehydrated is extremely dangerous. In addition to triggering headaches, dehydration can cause serious problems, even death if not treated. Drinking water or Gatorade will keep dehydration at bay and headaches, too. Water is the best solution for restoring hydration. Never assume that alcoholic drinks can rehydrate you. In fact, they actually leave you dehydrated and cause pause pounding headaches.

Headaches are more common during the summer months, but Advanced Medical Clinic is your resource for good health and patient-centered care during every season. At Advanced Medical in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida, we offer a high standard of primary and urgent care. Our comprehensive treatment options are designed to help you achieve a better quality of life through the management of many urgent and non-urgent conditions. As a husband and wife team, internal medicine specialist Dr. Ishan Gunawardene and nurse practitioner Shariffa Gunawardene understand what family health means and its true importance.

Avoid a headache! The friendly staff at Advanced Medical welcomes your call and looks forward to serving you. If you have any questions about our primary care services, please call our office at (561) 434-1935. To schedule an appointment, you can call us or use our secure online appointment request form.