Advanced Medical Clinic

Why You Need a Primary Care Doctor Near You

In today’s fast-paced world, our health can often take a back seat. But having a primary care doctor is crucial for your overall well-being. Let’s discuss why you need a primary care doctor near you and how it can improve your health.

What Is a Primary Care Doctor?

A primary care doctor is your first point of contact for health issues. They provide routine check-ups, treat illnesses, and help manage chronic conditions. Preventive care is also a key focus, promoting your overall well-being and long-term health. There are different types of primary care providers, including family doctors, internists, and nurse practitioners. Each of these plays a unique role in keeping you healthy.

Why You Need a Primary Care Doctor

Having a primary care doctor offers long-term health benefits. Regular check-ups can catch diseases early when they are easier to treat. Your doctor also helps manage chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. This ongoing care can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

Long-term Health Benefits

One of the biggest benefits of having a primary care doctor is the long-term care they provide. They know your medical history and can make personalized recommendations to improve your health, reduce symptoms, and minimize your risk of health complications. This continuity of care leads to better health outcomes and a stronger patient-doctor relationship.

Managing Chronic Conditions

Chronic conditions require ongoing management; therefore, choosing a reliable physician near you is important. A primary care doctor helps you monitor your condition and adjust treatments as needed. This can prevent hospital visits and improve your overall health. For example, regular check-ups for diabetes can help manage blood sugar levels and avoid complications.

The Importance of Regular Check-ups

Regular check-ups are essential for early disease prevention. Your physician can identify risk factors and suggest lifestyle changes. Early detection of conditions like hypertension or high cholesterol can lead to better management and fewer complications.

Finding the Right Primary Care Doctor for You

Choosing the right primary care doctor is crucial. You should first consider factors like insurance coverage, location, and the doctor’s specialties. To keep costs manageable, look for a provider within your insurance network who accepts your insurance plan. The location should be convenient so you can easily attend appointments when needed. If you have a specific health concern, you may also want to consider a doctor specializing in that particular field.

Tips for Selecting a Provider

When selecting a primary care doctor, consider their experience and patient reviews. Ask for recommendations from friends or family. Check online reviews to gain insights into other patients’ experiences. It’s also helpful to meet with the doctor to see if you feel comfortable discussing your health concerns with them.

Factors to Consider

Aside from insurance and location, consider the doctor’s communication style. You need someone who listens to you and explains things clearly. A good doctor should make you feel comfortable and respected during your visits.

Building a Relationship with Your Primary Care Doctor

Establishing a strong relationship with your primary care doctor is essential. Open communication is key to effective healthcare and helping your doctor make accurate diagnoses and treatment plans. Be honest about your symptoms and lifestyle. This helps your doctor spot red flags in your health and recognize potentially emerging conditions. This can be particularly important if you have a family history of certain health conditions which may require closer monitoring.

The Importance of Open Communication

Open communication with your primary care doctor ensures that all your health concerns are addressed. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification. The more information your doctor has, the better they can understand your health needs.

Preparing for Your First Appointment

Prepare for your first appointment by listing your symptoms and any medications you’re taking. Bring medical records if you have them. This helps your doctor get a complete picture of your health and plan the best care and treatment for you.

Your Primary Care Doctor’s Role in Your Healthcare Team

Your primary care doctor plays a central role in your healthcare team. They coordinate with specialists and other healthcare providers to ensure you receive comprehensive care. This team approach improves your overall health outcomes and makes sure your needs are met accordingly.

How Advanced Medical in Wellington, Florida, Can Help

Advanced Medical in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida, offers high-quality primary and urgent care. Our practice focuses on evidence-based family medicine and compassionate care. We provide a comprehensive range of services to meet your health needs.

Our team, led by board-certified internist, Dr. Ishan Gunawardene, and Family Nurse Practitioner Shariffa Gunawardene, understand the importance of family health. We are dedicated to providing personalized care. We aim to help you achieve a better quality of life through comprehensive treatment options.

Services Offered

We offer a wide range of services, including physical exams, chronic disease management, and urgent care. Our practice also provides on-site services like EKG and pulmonary function testing. This ensures you receive accurate diagnoses and effective treatments without the need for multiple visits.

Commitment to Patient Care

Our commitment to patient care sets us apart. We provide continuity of care, meaning we are with you every step of the way, even during hospital admissions or extended care. Our goal is to minimize unnecessary hospitalizations and referrals, ensuring you receive consistent and effective care.

Top Primary Care Doctor Near Me in Wellington, FL

For more information about our primary care services or to arrange a consultation with one of our expert doctors, call Advanced Medical today at (561) 434-1935 or use our secure appointment request form. Don’t wait; take the first step toward better health now.

Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses and How to Treat Them

Being a parent is rewarding, but it can also be challenging, especially when your child becomes ill. Understanding common childhood illnesses and knowing how to treat them can help ease your worries and ensure your child gets the care they need. This guide covers some of the most frequent ailments in children and offers tips on how to manage them from family medicine providers in Royal Palm Beach, FL.

Common Childhood Illnesses

1. Sore Throat

A sore throat can be very uncomfortable for children. It is usually the result of a virus and typically does not require antibiotics or prescription medicine. Warm liquids and age-appropriate, over-the-counter pain relief can help soothe the throat. If a sore throat persists longer than a week or is accompanied by a fever, see a healthcare provider, as it could be caused by an infection called streptococcal (strep throat).

2. Strep Throat

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that predominantly causes a sore throat and fever. Sometimes, a headache, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting may also be present. This infection is very common in school aged children. If you suspect your child has strep throat, visit a healthcare professional for a strep test. A rapid strep test involves a quick swab of the throat, providing results in just one hour. If positive, your child will need to take prescribed antibiotics as directed to kill the bacteria. This will help them recover faster and prevent complications.

3. Common Cold

Colds are caused by viruses and can lead to a runny nose, cough, and sneezing. To help your child feel better, ensure they get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. Over-the-counter cold or pain relief medications can be used, but always consult a doctor first, as some medicines are not suitable for kids.

4. Flu

The flu can be similar to a cold but is often more severe. Symptoms include fever, body aches, and fatigue. Like colds, the best treatment is rest and fluids. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider first. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), flu can cause children under 4 years old to get very sick. If you are concerned about your child’s symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for advice. An annual influenza vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu.

5. Cough

Coughs can be bothersome and disrupt sleep. They are usually caused by viruses and rarely require antibiotics. Cough syrup or lozenges may help, but always check with a healthcare provider, especially if your child is under six years old, because some cough medicines have the potential for serious side effects.

6. Fever

Fevers are a common sign that the body is trying to fight an illness or infection. The AAP states that fevers are generally harmless and that they can actually be a good sign. It shows that your child’s immune system is working properly and that their body is trying to heal itself. You can use over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease discomfort and reduce the fever. Ensure you follow the dosing instructions carefully. If the fever persists, is very high, or accompanied by other symptoms, such as a stiff neck or unexplained rash, always consult a healthcare provider immediately for advice.

7. Ear Pain

Ear pain can have many causes. It might indicate an ear infection, toothache, or pressure from a cold or sinus infection. Seek medical advice for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In the meantime, over-the-counter pain relief medication can help manage the pain.

8. Urinary Tract Infection

Bladder infections, also known as urinary tract infections (UTIs), occur when bacteria accumulate in the urinary tract. UTIs can affect people of all ages, including infants, children, and teens. Symptoms may include pain or burning during urination, a frequent or urgent need to urinate, and bedwetting or accidents in toilet-trained children. A child may also experience abdominal pain and side or back pain. To diagnose a UTI, a urine sample is required for testing. Treatment will be based on the specific bacteria identified in your child’s urine.

By understanding these common childhood illnesses and seeking help when needed, you can ensure your child stays healthy and happy.

What If My Child’s Symptoms Change?

Occasionally, mild infections, whether viral or bacterial, can progress to more serious conditions. It’s crucial to monitor your child’s illness closely. Reach out to your healthcare provider promptly if:

  • The illness worsens
  • You notice any changes in symptoms
  • Your child doesn’t improve after a few days
  • New symptoms develop that cause concern

A worsening condition or the appearance of complications may necessitate a change in treatment, which your healthcare provider can guide you through effectively. Ensuring timely medical advice can help manage the illness better and prevent further complications.

Preventive Tips

Preventing illness is always better than treating it. Keep up-to-date with childhood vaccinations. Encourage good hygiene in your children, like frequent hand-washing and covering their mouths when coughing or sneezing. These simple habits can go a long way in preventing the spread of infections.

Family Medicine in Royal Palm Beach and Wellington, Florida

At Advanced Medical in Wellington, Florida, we offer a high standard of primary and urgent care for all your family’s healthcare needs. Specializing in internal and family medicine, our family medicine providers in Royal Palm Beach are on hand to deliver expert care.

If you or your loved ones are sick, our family medicine provider Shariffa Gunawardene, ARNP, provides the comprehensive care needed to return your family to health and keep you well long-term.

To ensure we make an accurate diagnosis, we offer many on-site conveniences, including rapid strep testing, blood draws, and pulmonary function testing. Our comprehensive range of treatment options are designed to help you achieve a better quality of life through the management of various conditions.

For expert care, visit Advanced Medical. You can request an appointment or call us at (561) 434-1935. We offer same-day and walk-in appointments for your convenience. The friendly staff at Advanced Medical welcomes your call!

7 Tips for Finding a Family Medicine Facility Near You

There are many things to consider when trying to find a family medicine facility near you. With all the different factors you need to look out for, finding a facility near you can often feel like an overwhelming task – but it doesn’t have to be. Here are seven tips for finding the best family medicine facility for yourself and your family near you.

1. Consider the Location

When finding the right family medicine facility, you want to make sure it’s in the right location. Most often, we find patients only want to travel within 30 minutes of their home or office to see their primary care physician. If you’re searching for a family medicine provider for yourself and your loved ones around Wellington or Royal Palm Beach, Florida, consider a convenient facility like Advanced Medical Clinic.

2. Ask About Services

When choosing a family medicine provider to be your primary care provider, you want to make sure they offer the services you and your loved ones need. Common family medicine services patients typically search for when looking for a family medicine provider include:

  • School, work, and sports physicals
  • Chronic condition management
  • Treatment for a cough, cold, or flu
  • Mental health treatment
  • Treatment for car accidents/trauma

3. Look for Board-Certified Providers

One of the most important factors to consider when finding a primary care family medicine provider near you is finding a board-certified provider with plenty of experience. Board certifications are indications for patients that a provider is highly trained in their field. It means they could take and pass an all-encompassing medical exam in their field. Board certifications hold their providers to high standards, ensuring you get the care you need and deserve.

4. Ask About Referrals

Your primary care family medicine provider should be your go-to resource for all your medical needs – including referrals to specialists if you need them. Patients are often recommended to specialists if a primary care provider finds abnormalities or signs of a specific condition that a specialist in that field can better treat. For example, if you’re having signs of a heart condition, your family medicine provider should be able to refer you to a skilled and qualified cardiologist.

5. Consider Insurance Coverage

It’s important to be practical about your health care, including paying for your family medicine services. It’s always recommended to find a family medicine provider covered by insurance to ensure your out-of-pocket fees are kept at a minimum. If you’re unsure whether your preferred facility takes your insurance, give them a quick call to ask or contact your insurance provider for more information.

6. Look for Reviews

Before the internet, people found family medicine providers via word of mouth. Nowadays, there are reviews and testimonials that patients can use in the same way. Check out reviews for your facility of choice to see what real patients have to say about their experience with the practice and the provider. The better the reviews, the more likely you’ll have a positive experience at the facility.

7. Think About Your Individual Needs

Finally, and most importantly, consider your and your family member’s individual needs. Does your child have diabetes and needs help with managing their insulin levels? Or do you find you have chronic UTIs and are looking for a long-term solution? These are the questions you should be asking yourself when considering a family medicine provider near you. Remember, services are supposed to be tailored to your individual needs. Don’t be afraid to ask for personalized care.

Family Medicine Provider in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida

Finding a quality family medicine facility near you is as easy as calling Advanced Medical Clinic. Our team of dedicated, compassionate board-certified primary care providers is proud to offer comprehensive, personalized care to you and your family members. Whether you’re feeling like you have the flu or need help managing your chronic condition, you can rely on the providers at Advanced Medical Clinic.

To make an appointment with our primary care providers, call us today at (561) 434-1935. You can also make an appointment online using our convenient online appointment request form.

Why Do You Need to Have a Family Medicine Provider?

It would help if you saw a specialist when an issue particular to your body’s organ or system arises. However, what about the times when you aren’t aware of what’s going on with your body that’s causing your symptoms; you want to take care of the overall health of not only yourself but also your family; you need advice specific to your situation? A family medicine provider is a medical professional who can be an answer for most such healthcare situations for you and your family. A family medicine provider is trained to provide all sorts of care to patients of all ages for long-term – medical emergencies are an exception.

So, there is no reason not to have a family medicine provider caring for you (even if you don’t have a family), but there are many reasons why you should have one. Let’s talk about those reasons.

Reason #1 All Primary Care Needs of You and Your Family Can Be Addressed Under One Roof

As a primary care provider, a family provider can offer primary health care – providing treatment for common health complaints, the management of long-term illnesses such as heart disease, asthma, and diabetes, and prevention of future illnesses through advice, screening programs, and immunization – to people of all ages. A family medicine provider can also perform minor surgical procedures such as draining abscesses.

Since they master specific skill sets such as women’s health, geriatrics, obstetrics, and more, during their training, their office is the first stop of patients of all ages – from newborns to senior citizens – for primary health care needs. They also keep track of your family life cycle to provide you with comprehensive care.

Reason #2 You Can Connect with Specialists Timely and Easily

Your family medicine provider can indeed do a lot for you, but they can’t do everything, especially if your problem is related to a particular body system or organ, let’s say the heart. Only a specialist of an organ or system can treat such problems. Finding a trustworthy specialist within your budget and reliable can be stressful for you and your family.

Having a family medicine provider means your problem will be detected early, and you don’t have to be worried about finding a specialist. Family medicine providers are likely to have a relationship with many specialists and can refer you to the one you can be comfortable with. Moreover, they can also help you set an appointment with your new family medicine provider without wasting much time.

Reason #3 You Can Get Better Health and Save Money at The Same Time

There’s no secret that healthcare can be pretty expensive, as is evident from the fact that even a short trip to the emergency room can cost you and your family a great deal of money. However, there is ample evidence that having a family medicine provider can significantly reduce healthcare spending.

A family medicine provider does so(reduce your healthcare spending)by keeping track of your health and preventing serious issues from developing, which could otherwise make you spend an extreme amount at the hospital or emergency room.

Family Medicine Provider Near Me in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida

At Advanced Medical Clinic, our nurse practitioner Shariffa Gunawardene provides comprehensive, evidence-based, and personalized care that you need to return your family to health and keep you well. Because of her comprehensive and compassionate care, you or your family members with acute or chronic illnesses can live healthier lives. To make an accurate diagnosis, we also offer on-site conveniences, including pulmonary function tests, EKG, echocardiography, and blood draw.

If you have a question about our services or would like to schedule an appointment with our providers, call our staff today at  (561) 434-1935 or complete our secure online appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!

Can Exercising Help with Arthritis Pain Relief?

If you’re living with arthritis and joint pain and stiffness due are already bogging you down, the idea of exercising or even just walking around the block can seem like a tall order. However, it is what you exactly need to effectively alleviate your symptoms.

Getting your joints moving helps improve their flexibility, stability, range of motion, and overall function, all of which translate into significant symptom relief. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of exercise for alleviating arthritis pain as well as improving the overall health of your joints.

Strengthens Your Muscles

Joints rely upon muscles for stability and support: the stronger your muscles, the more capable they are of controlling the movements of – and absorbing the forces that impact – your joints.

Resistance training, a type of exercise that makes your muscle groups work against external force or weight, greatly helps improve their strength, mobility, and ultimately, ability to support your joints.

Keeps Your Joints “Well Oiled”

Each of your joints is surrounded by soft tissue called the synovial membrane, which produces fluid that acts like oil in an engine (synovial fluid). Synovial fluid allows for frictionless movement of your joints and cushions your bones.

Physical activity exposes your synovial membrane to a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients and boosts circulation of the synovial fluid.  Better joint lubrication means less joint pain and stiffness.

Promotes Weight Loss

Excess weight can add to the strain on your joints. While exercise doesn’t reverse arthritis, it facilitates weight loss, which can help arthritic joints feel better and slow the progression of the condition.

Biking, swimming, walking, and water activities are all safe, nondrug ways to ease arthritis pain. What’s more, these forms of exercise can help improve joint function and brighten your mood.

Arthritis Treatment in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, FL

If you have arthritis and you want to reap the benefits of exercise, it is best to consult your primary care provider. Ask your primary care provider about a referral to a physical therapist, who can put together a targeted exercise program for lasting pain relief.

Exercise, when overdone, can also harm your joints. A physical therapist can help you stay on the safe side and advance through stages according to what goals you have already achieved.

If you’re in search of a primary care provider in the Wellington area in Florida, consider us here at Advanced Medical Clinic. Our team includes a board-certified internal medicine provider and a board-certified family nurse practitioner who work hand in hand to bring one goal to fruition: to provide the highest quality of compassionate health care, so patients can focus on living their best lives.

To schedule an appointment with one of our providers, call our office today at (561) 434-1935 or use our convenient online request form.

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 Tests Can Be Done to Diagnose the Cause of My Headaches?

There are various ways headaches inflict their misery—from a dull pain accompanied by pressure or tightness as though a clamp is squeezing your skull, to severe or explosive pain as though a clap of thunder has stricken your head.

Almost everyone experiences headaches at least occasionally, but there are people who regularly suffer from a continuum of attacks. If you belong to the latter group, you want to get to the bottom of your headaches, so you can take the necessary steps to keep them from affecting your quality of life.

Let’s discuss the different tests that primary care providers typically use to diagnose the cause of headaches.

Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan

A CT scan is a type of imaging test that uses special X-rays to produce cross-sectional images of the inside of your head. Your primary care provider may order this test, if your headache is accompanied by other symptoms or has become frequent and debilitating, to confirm or rule out a tumor or other structural brain abnormalities.

During a head CT scan, the scanner’s X-ray beam rotates around your head, producing a series of images from different angles. The information then gets sent to a computer, which interprets the data and displays it in a two-dimensional (2D) form on a monitor.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

An MRI uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of the structures in your head. Like a CT scan, an MRI creates detailed images of the internal structures of the brain as well as the brain stem. It checks for intracerebral hemorrhage (bleeding), aneurysms, infection, stroke, tumors, and trauma, as well as congenital conditions and developmental abnormalities, among other problems.

It’s worth mentioning that these imaging tests are not always necessary. Unless your headache is disruptive, or occurs alongside other symptoms, such as sensory changes, nausea, fever, or confusion, your primary care provider may just review your medical history, diet and lifestyle, and current health condition in order to determine its cause or triggers.

Headache Treatment in Wellington, FL

If your headaches have become concerning, do not wait to seek medical attention. Turn to your primary care provider, who can thoroughly evaluate your symptoms and determine whether or not you need medical imaging tests and specialized care.

If you’re searching for a reliable primary care provider within the Wellington area in Florida, visit us here at Advanced Medical. Dr. Ishan Gunawardene, our board-certified internal family medicine provider, will carry out a comprehensive assessment to pinpoint the cause of your headaches and coordinate your care with a neurologist for effective management, if need be.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Gunawardene today. Call our clinic at (561) 434-1935 or use our online request form.

Arthritis 101: What Is Arthritis?

As we grow older, our joints become more susceptible to wearing down and degeneration. This could lead to a variety of pain symptoms and problems that older people may experience. Perhaps one of the most common issues older people experience is arthritis.

Here are some of the things you should know about this condition.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of joints. It causes chronic pain and swelling, which can be debilitating to patients, preventing them from enjoying a full range of motion. While the primary symptom of arthritis is pain, patients also experience stiffness, a grinding sensation, redness in the area, and potential weakness.

There is a higher percentage of women who have arthritis than men. Although arthritis could affect people of any age, older adults are at higher risk. The condition may worsen with age and cause other joint and bone complications.

Types of Arthritis

Unbeknownst to some, arthritis is an umbrella term that encompasses various joint conditions, such as:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common kind of arthritis. It is a degenerative joint disease that is most likely to develop at an older age. It could affect all types of joints in the body, but it commonly affects the hands, hips, knees, shoulders, and spine.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory type of arthritis that could affect more than just joints. It is an autoimmune disease that makes the body’s immune system attack healthy tissues. It could also affect the skin, eyes, lungs, and other organs in the body.

Juvenile Arthritis

Arthritis is most common in the elderly, but juvenile arthritis affects children under the age of 16, impacting their joints and other nearby tissues. This condition also affects their growth and development. Juvenile arthritis causes sufferers to experience chronic pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Psoriatic Arthritis

This condition develops in people with psoriasis. It involves the formation of red, scaly patches all over the body. Currently, there is no known cure for this condition. The available interventions help alleviate and mitigate the pain and symptoms of patients.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease affecting the spine. Over time, this condition may cause the fusion of spinal bones. It causes back pain and may also bring intermittent hip pain and stiffness.

Gout

Gout is a painful condition caused by the excess build-up of uric acid in the body. Its symptoms typically include a painful burning sensation, accompanied by swelling and inflammation in the big toe.

Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis

Different patients experience a variety of symptoms. However, the most commonly reported ones are the following:

  • Joint pain
  • Swelling
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Stiffness
  • Tenderness
  • Warmth in the area

Risk Factors

Risk for the development of arthritis varies from person to person, but the likelihood of developing arthritis can be affected by the following:

  • Age — the risk for developing arthritis increases with age
  • Lifestyle — smoking and lack of exercise increase risk
  • Sex — studies show that women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis while men are more likely to have gout
  • Weight — excess weight puts unnecessary pressure and strain on joints, increasing the risk of developing arthritis and other joint problems
  • Family History — you are more likely to develop arthritis if your family has a history of it
  • Previous Injuries — patients who have injured their joints in the past are more likely to develop arthritis in that affected joint

Treatment Options for Arthritis

Healthcare providers will first exhaust all conservative treatment options before suggesting more aggressive treatments. The most common interventions are as follows:

  • Medications — various medications can help relieve pain and address symptoms
    • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): reduce pain and inflammation in affected joints
    • Counterirritants: commonly include ointments and creams that reduce the transmission of pain signals to the brain
    • Steroid injections: direct cortisone shots to the affected area help relieve the pain longer than over-the-counter medications
  • Physical Therapy — this rehabilitative treatment option helps patients regain flexibility and mobility
  • Surgery — this is commonly suggested for patients with severe arthritis who haven’t found relief from conservative treatments

Arthritis Specialists in Wellington, FL

Conditions like arthritis may cause a variety of complications in the future. The longer it goes unaddressed, the worse it will likely get. It’s therefore critical to get it checked as soon as possible.

If you are looking for quality bone and joint care, look no further than Advanced Medical Clinic. Dr. Ishan Gunawardene, a board-certified internist, together with Shariffa Gunawardene, a board-certified family nurse practitioner, can provide you with the best primary holistic care possible from diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation.

If you wish to know more about us and our services, you can check in online or call us at (561) 434-1935. You can also secure an appointment ahead of time by using our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

A rise and fall in your body’s blood pressure is something to be taken seriously. This can happen throughout the day, depending on your activity and physical state. When you have high blood pressure, you are at risk of other life-threatening medical problems. High blood pressure can also occur with other health conditions, such as arthritis.

You can manage your health better by knowing the causes of various conditions. Continue reading to find out more about the causes of high blood pressure.

What Is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is abnormally high systolic and diastolic blood pressure. These two numbers indicate the pressure in the arteries, the vessels carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Systolic blood pressure is the first or higher number. It measures the pressure when the heart beats. Meanwhile, diastolic pressure, the second number, measures the pressure between beats, when the heart rests. Your primary care provider can determine if you have high blood pressure based on blood pressure readings that check these numbers.

This condition usually has no severe symptoms, particularly in the early stages. You may feel headaches, nosebleeds, or shortness of breath when your blood pressure becomes severely high.

Types and Causes of High Blood Pressure

There are two types of high blood pressure, depending on the cause. Your family primary care provider may examine your medical history to determine what causes your hypertension.

●     Primary Hypertension

Most adults suffer from primary or essential hypertension. This type of high blood pressure has no definite cause and gradually develops over time.

●     Secondary Hypertension

Secondary hypertension appears more suddenly. This type of hypertension occurs because of another underlying medical condition in the heart, kidneys, or endocrine system. Examples are arthritis, thyroid problems, problems in blood vessels, obstructive sleep apnea, and more.

Risk Factors Causing High Blood Pressure

Some factors increase the likelihood of having high blood pressure. Although these do not directly cause hypertension, you should monitor your blood pressure closely if you are associated with these risk factors:

●     Age and Gender

Hypertension can affect people at any age. However, the likelihood of acquiring it increases as you get older. Although less common, children may also suffer from hypertension. Poor lifestyle habits and kidney or heart problems can contribute to hypertension in the younger population.

●     Family History and Race

Genetics can play a significant role in developing high blood pressure. Hypertension tends to run in families. According to studies, people of African descent may also develop the condition earlier than others. They are also more likely to develop serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.

●     Physical Activity

Physical inactivity is generally associated with a higher heart rate. It causes the heart to work harder and produce more intense contractions, leading to hypertension.

●     Weight

Increased weight means the body needs more blood supply and oxygen. When there is increased blood flow in the arteries, the pressure against the artery walls may also increase.

●     Diet

The nutrients in your diet, such as sodium and potassium, can affect your blood pressure. Too much sodium or salt can promote fluid retention in your body, resulting in increased blood pressure. Low potassium levels due to improper diet or dehydration can lead to sodium buildup in the blood.

●     Use of Tobacco and Drinking Alcohol

The use of tobacco products does not only temporarily raise your body’s blood pressure immediately, it can also cause the narrowing of artery walls, leading to permanent damage. Alcohol consumption can also lead to heart damage, especially if the intake is more than one to two drinks a day.

●     Stress

High levels of stress are associated with a temporary spike in blood pressure. Stress-related habits or coping mechanisms such as binge eating, smoking, or drinking alcohol can also cause a permanent increase in blood pressure.

●     Pregnancy

Pregnant women may suffer from gestational hypertension or pregnancy-induced hypertension, or preeclampsia. This condition can pose serious risks before, during, and after birth.

●     Use of Certain Medications

Some birth control pills, pain relievers, cold medications, decongestants, and prescription drugs may affect the body’s blood pressure. Illegal drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines can also cause hypertension.

Treatment For High Blood Pressure and Arthritis in Wellington, FL

High blood pressure affects your overall health in many ways. It should be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. To get the best medical treatment for hypertension, you should always listen to the experts. Primary care providers are the trusted and first-hand primary care providers who can help diagnose and treat your high blood pressure.

If you are looking for a clinic to help you with your high blood pressure, we at Advanced Medical Clinic offer medical services in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida. Our skilled family medicine providers and staff will surely accommodate your concerns, from diagnosis to treatment.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help. You may call our friendly staff at (561) 434-1935 or fill out this online request form. We look forward to serving you.

Erectile Dysfunction in Younger Men

While erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem among older men, it can occur in younger men as well. If it does, it can signal the possibility of an underlying health issue.

Below, you’ll learn about the factors that can predispose younger men to ED as well as what they should do about their condition.

Erectile Dysfunction Risk Factors

It’s important to take note that albeit advancing age is a common risk factor for ED, a man doesn’t have to be older to develop the condition. There are many health and lifestyle factors that can predispose even younger men to erectile dysfunction. These include the following:

  • Benign prostatic hypertrophy (prostate enlargement) – This condition can occur in men younger than 40 years of age.
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Depression and other mental health problems
  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol levels
  • Hypertension
  • Kidney disease
  • Low testosterone levels
  • Medications (e.g., muscle relaxants, tranquilizers, antihypertensives, etc.) and some cancer treatments
  • Obesity
  • Peyronie’s disease- a condition that causes penis to bend and lose length or girth
  • Poor lifestyle habits- Substance abuse, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking
  • Prostate cancer – This can sometimes coexist with BPH.
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Surgery or trauma to the groin and genital area
  • Thyroid issues

ED as a Predictor of Cardiovascular Disease

Several studies have established a strong link between heart health and erectile dysfunction: while erectile dysfunction can be caused by cardiovascular disease, the former can also be a predictor of the latter.

It stands to reason that if a man has numerous episodes of erectile dysfunction, he should consult with his primary care provider, who will do a complete assessment and order certain tests to determine the underlying condition. The patient should also be honest about when ED happens and how frequently as this information can help his primary care provider confirm a diagnosis and connect him to the appropriate interventions.

Primary Care Provider in Wellington, FL

At Advanced Medical Clinic, our board-certified internal medicine provider, Dr. Ishan Gunawardene, provides evidence-based, compassionate, and confidential care for men dealing with erectile dysfunction. He offers a range of innovative interventions customized to your specific health needs. Should advanced care be necessary for your condition, Dr. Gunawardene will gladly coordinate your care with the right specialist.

To arrange a consultation with Dr. Gunawardene, call us at (561) 434-1935. You may also book a visit right here on our website. We look forward to helping you feel your best in and out of the bedroom!