More Patient Education

Finger/Nail Injuries or Infection

Our fingers and finger nails are involved in almost every aspect of daily life. They are therefore, very susceptible to injury and infection.

Healthy fingernails will have a pinkish color with the occasional flecks of white and “half moon” of white appearing at the nail bed. Bumps and ridges are normal, however severe alterations of the nail’s surface can indicate an underlying infection or fungus.

Cuticles are a common source of infection, especially resulting from picking, biting or the use if unsanitary manicure tools. If you spot a reddened or swollen area with red streaks radiating from the cuticle, this can indicate an infection that requires medical attention right away.

Pain or a tingling sensation in the fingers can mean several things: cramps from overuse, flexor tendon injury, ganglion cyst compression on a nerve in the hand, arthritis, diabetes or any number of immune disorders.

Symptoms

• Redness or swelling around the cuticle might signal infection
• Joint pain, stiffness or tingling in the fingers or joints can point to nerve compression, arthritis or an overuse syndrome
• Limited range of motion accompanied by swelling, bruising and stiffness in the presence of an injury could indicate a broken bone  
• Deep ridges or loss of the fingernail may be due to fungus or infection

Who is at risk?

Symptoms related to overuse of a joint can happen at any age to persons engaged in repetitive motion activities. Cuticle damage is especially notable in children who bite and pick at their fingers; this could result in a limb-threatening infection if redness and swelling does not receive proper medical attention. Anyone can sustain an injury to the fingers or nails requiring a visit to your physician for x-rays and splinting.

Treatment

A physician will stabilize a fracture by taping or splinting the finger. Surgery is a last resort that would most likely be required if the breakage is accompanied by nerve or tendon damage or if the bone fragments are seriously out of alignment. A finder or nail infection might require incision and debridement of an abscess followed by antibiotics. Let a doctor help you make that decision before the infection spreads or escalates into something worse. Tingling sensations may be evaluated through evaluating your vital signs and possibly ordering bloodwork to check you for anemia and Vitamin B deficiency. Tingling or pain without injury is sometimes related to pressure on a nerve which can also be evaluated and treated by a medical professional.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

Severe range of motion limitations and infection are the chief warning signs that immediate medical treatment is necessary. If you are unable to move the finger unassisted or if red streaks radiate from a swollen area, seek a doctor’s advice.

Treatment for Finger/Nail Injuries or Infection is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Flu Shot

According to the CDC, the single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year.

Who should get a flu shot?

Beginning with the 2010-11 flu season, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that all people age 6 months and older get a flu vaccine each year.  The vaccination is especially important for people in high risk groups, including:

• Pregnant women
• Children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old
• People 50 years of age and older
• People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
• People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
• People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:
  • Health care workers
  • Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu
  • Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)

Who should not get a flu shot?

• Anyone with severe allergy to chicken eggs
• Anyone who has had a severe reaction to a past flu vaccine
• Anyone with a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of getting a flu vaccine
• Children younger than 6 months
• Anyone currently suffering from moderate or severe illness with fever should wait until healthy to get a flu shot

How does the vaccine work?

Each year, a flu vaccine is developed based on recently circulating strains of the flu virus. When the vaccine is given, antibodies that provide protection against the flu develop in the body.

When should I get a flu shot?

October and November are the most effective months for vaccination. You can get vaccinated as early as September, and vaccines are generally available and of value until January or beyond.

Flu Shots are available during flu season at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ. If you would like to set up a flu clinic at your company or other organization, ask about our Corporate Flu Clinics.

Food Allergies

Food allergies occur when your body has a reaction to a certain type of food. Not all reactions to food are because of an allergy – similar symptoms may actually indicate a food intolerance or food poisoning. Foods that most often cause allergic reactions include: peanuts, other nuts, fish and shellfish (such as shrimp), soy, wheat, milk, and eggs.

Symptoms

• Tightness of the throat
• Tingling in the mouth
• Swelling of the tongue, lips, and/or face
• Rapid pulse
• Hives or itchy skin
• Wheezing or trouble breathing
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Cough
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Anaphylaxis – this is a sudden and severe reaction involving several symptoms occurring at once.

Who is at risk?

• People with a family history of food allergies
• People with other allergies

Treatment of Food Allergies

While medications can sometimes be helpful in controlling food allergies, the most important treatment is to identify the specific allergen and eliminate it from your diet. You must learn – or teach children with food allergies – what foods to avoid. In any case where you are not sure if a food is acceptable, you need to read the label or communicate with the person who prepared the food. In case of accidental exposure, food allergy sufferers should be prepared with a self-injectable medication that can be prescribed by a doctor. If medication is not on hand, seek immediate emergency medical care.

When should I see a doctor?

As food allergies can be life threatening, suspicion of a food allergy should not be taken lightly. If you are not sure, see a doctor as soon as possible. In cases of known allergies, work with your doctor to educate yourself about when to seek emergency medical care.

Treatment for Food Allergies is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Foreign Bodies in the Eye

Whether it is an eyelash or a metal shard, objects in the eye are painful. The eye is carefully crafted to wash out small foreign objects by naturally blinking and secreting “tears” when irritation occurs. Larger objects or embedded foreign material are a different story, requiring emergency ophthalmological care.

Symptoms

• Scratchy sensation in the eye
• Pain with blinking
• Visual problems

Who is at risk?

Children frequently complain of objects in the eye, from sand to pencil shards. Anyone working with metal or chemicals are also at high risk for an eye injury. Almost everyone has experienced a foreign body in the eye at one time.

Treatment

Treatment will vary from antibiotic drops or ointment to ophthalmologic surgery. A physician may choose to dilate the eye, enlarge the pupil, to better see the retina. A blue light might be used to detect scratches in the eye in the case of foreign objects. Safety goggles or shields should always be employed to protect the eyes when possible. Foreign bodies should be removed immediately to prevent further damage to the outer surface of the eye.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

Any object that has penetrated beyond the superficial layer of the eyeball, has caused bleeding from the eye or cuts to the eyelid needs emergency medical attention. Children complaining of eye pain or scratchiness should be evaluated by a physician. Anyone working with metal on metal (eg. hammering a nail) should seek medical attention if eye pain turns up. Most routine eye foreign bodies such as a fleck of dirt or rust, can be evaluated and treated in an urgent care center.

Treatment for Foreign Bodies in the Eye is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Fracture (Broken Bone)

A fracture is a break, typically in a bone. Fractures are common, and are usually caused by trauma during falls, car accidents, or sports injuries. Fractures are also common in patients suffering from osteoporosis, which causes weakening of the bones. If the broken bone punctures the skin, it is called a compound, or open fracture. Closed, or simple fractures, do not puncture the skin. Overuse during sports or other activities can cause stress fractures, which are tiny cracks in the bone.

Symptoms

• Intense pain in the afflicted area
• Tingling and numbness 
• Immobility or limited mobility to move a limb
• Misshapen limb or joint, out–of-place appearance
• Bruising, swelling, or bleeding

Who is at risk?

• Anyone who has suffered severe trauma to a limb
• Patients with osteoporosis, which causes weakening of the bones
• Those who partake in long term, strenuous activities are at risk for stress fractures

Treatment of Condition

Following diagnosis of the fracture as a complete or partial break, treatment is focused upon realigning the ends of the bones to help it recover its strength, mobility, and sensitivity fully. Often you will need to wear a cast or splint to keep the bone in place while it heals, but in some cases surgery to insert plates or screws to keep the bone in place is necessary. Treatment varies widely depending on the severity and location of the break. After the limb has been cast and set properly, it is very important to avoid activity or stress to the limb, as it could cause the break not to heal properly.

When should I see a doctor?

Seek medical attention immediately for any fracture to prevent further injury or incorrect healing.

Treatment for Fractures is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Frostbite

Frostbite describes the appearance of the skin when it has been damaged by unprotected exposure to extreme cold. During exposure to the cold, blood vessels close to the skin on our extremities will constrict, causing the skin to harden and change color. The affected skin may at the same time ache, but not register feeling when touched. If not treated quickly, extremities may suffer irreparable harm.

Symptoms

• Stage 1 : burning sensation, yellow or white skin coloration
• Stage 2 : red, swollen skin, blisters and peeling
• Stage 3: skin becomes waxy and hard, begins dying, turning black

Who is at risk?

Anyone exposed to extreme cold is at risk for frostbite if not properly protected. Diabetics are at higher risk because of pre-existing circulation problems that will cause symptoms to worsen faster.

Treatment

In early stages of frostbite, symptoms will reverse after gradual warming. Since infected or open skin is susceptible to gangrene, physician assistance should be obtained for any Stage 2 or Stage 3 symptoms. Affected limbs should be isolated and warmed gradually while seeking emergency help.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

Emergency medical care is absolutely necessary to diagnose treatment in all but the mildest of frostbite cases.

Treatment for Frostbite is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Gastroenteritis

Commonly referred to as the stomach flu, gastroenteritis is any disturbance of the GI (gastrointestinal) tract that results in the inability to keep foods “down” or circulating in your system. It is caused by an inflammation of the stomach lining, caused by various viruses or bacteria, not to be confused with the influenza virus or with parasitic infections. The virus may last up to 10 days, but most GI disorders are clear within one to three days.

Symptoms

• Diarrhea that is watery and persistent
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache, fever and abdominal cramps might accompany one or both

Who is at risk?

All people are susceptible to GI infections, but those at greatest risk are those who are not able to care for themselves, such as infants, children and the physically impaired. The greatest risk is dehydration from loss of fluids. Those who are unable or unwilling to take in proper fluids will have to be hospitalized for proper treatment. The disease is spread through contact with certain viruses, contaminated food and beverage products, close contact with others experiencing the illness, and contact with infected bodily fluids.

Treatment

The most important treatment is hydration. The best way to stay hydrated is through regular consumption of water. Gatorade or other electrolyte containing drinks may also be useful. Avoid milk and fruit juice as they may make the situation worse. In general, water is best, but use whatever you or the patient can tolerate. There is a licensed rotavirus vaccine that protects against severe cases in infants and children that doctors might recommend, but generally the treatment is to let the virus run its course with proper hydration. In cases of extreme fluid loss, a doctor might admit the patient to the emergency department or hospital for intravenous (IV) fluids. Medications to lessen your symptoms of nausea could also be helpful and can be prescribed by your physician.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

See a doctor if the patient is unable to keep fluids down or of blood turns up in vomit or bowel movements. Increasing fever and severe abdominal pain are other persistent symptoms that should be evaluated by a doctor.

Treatment for Gastroenteritis is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

H1N1 (Swine) Flu

The 2009-10 flu season saw the emergence of the H1N1 (swine) flu. This virus caused the first influenza pandemic (global outbreak of disease caused by a new flu virus) in more than 40 years. While not certain, it is likely that 2009 H1N1 viruses will continue to spread along with seasonal viruses in the U.S. during the 2010-2011 flu season.  The 2010-11 season flu vaccine includes protection for H1N1.  There is no longer a separate H1N1 vaccine, as there was in 2009-10.  People who got the 2009 H1N1 (pandemic) influenza vaccine, or had pandemic flu in 2009, should still get the 2010-2011 seasonal influenza vaccine.

The H1N1 (swine) flu spreads from person to person in a similar fashion as most influenza viruses, through coughing and sneezes from infected individuals.

Omni-Med recommends that extra attention be paid to hygiene. Hands should be washed frequently. Avoid contact with your nose and eyes if possible. Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and teach children to do the same. When at work, be sure to wipe down shared equipment such as telephones or keyboards.

Symptoms

The H1N1 virus produces similar symptoms to the traditional or seasonal influenza. These include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Many people also report nausea and diarrhea.

Treatment

If you are experiencing the above symptoms, please visit your physician, or stop in to our Florham Park, NJ office.

Other than seeking medical care, you should stay home and eliminate contact with others as much as possible.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

The CDC (Center for Disease Control) suggests that you seek immediate medical treatment if experiencing the following symptoms:

In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Treatment for flu, including H1N1, is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Headaches

There are two types of headaches, primary and secondary. Primary headaches are not associated with other diseases, for example migraine headaches, tension headaches and cluster headaches. An associated disease, sometimes life threatening conditions such as brain tumors, strokes, and meningitis or less, causes secondary headaches.

Tension headaches are the most common type of primary headaches. Nearly 90% of adults have suffered from such headaches.

• Tension headaches begin in the back of the head and upper neck.
• Often described as a band of pressure encircling the head with the most intense pain over eyebrows.
• The pain is usually mild, and affects both sides of the head.
• May occur sporadically, or even daily, but most people can still function within their daily routine.

The second most common type of primary headaches is a migraine – an estimated 28 million people in the U.S. experience migraines.

• Usually described as intense, throbbing or pounding pain in the temple, around eyes or forehead.
• The pain is usually only on one side of the head
• Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Facial Pallor, cold hands, cold feet and sensitivity to light and sound all can be symptoms of migraine headaches.
• A typical attack can last 4 to 72 hours.
• Symptoms prior to migraine attack may be: Sleepiness, Irritability, Fatigue, Depression, Euphoria, Yawning, Craving Sweet or Salty foods.

Cluster Headaches are a rare form of primary headache and affect only about 0.1% of the population and often begin in childhood. They are more common in men, while migraine and tension sufferers are more often women (note that men and women do suffer from all 3 types of headache).

• Usually come in groups (clusters) that can last for weeks or months, in periods that last about half-an-hour.
• Likely the pain is excruciating and is behind the eyes.

While Migraine headaches are caused by a release of chemicals from nerve fibers around blood vessels, the causes of cluster headache and tension headaches are largely unknown.

If you or a loved one experience constant headaches, it is a good idea to see a doctor. In rare cases, a headache can be a sign of a much more serious disease. However, if you find your symptoms are consistent with the common headache, please review the links provided below, for helpful treatment options and known headache triggers.

Evaluation and treatment for Headaches is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Hematuria

Hematuria is simply the presence of blood (specifically red blood cells) in urine. It may be an indicator of severe urinary tract infection, kidney stones or several other urinary problems. Most causes are not life threatening, but a physician should be consulted right away.

Symptoms

• Urine appears red or “cola” colored
• Groin pain or painful urination
• Chills and fever

Who is at risk?

Affects women aged 24-54 most frequently. In men it most typically indicates the presence of kidney stones.

Treatment

A physician will want a urine sample to verify the presence of red blood cells, and to detect other elements that could indicate kidney disease. Treatment will vary depending on the results of analysis. Your evaluation may include a visit to an urologist if the source of blood is not immediately obvious.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

The presence of blood in the urine is reason to consult a physician right away, even if it happens only once.

Treatment for Hematuria is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

High Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a natural substance that your body produces; in fact your body needs it to work properly. However, what is important is having just the right amount for healthy cell functioning.
 
Too much of this waxy substance in your blood, can cause it to stick to the walls of your arteries, cause plaque and actually severely narrow your arteries or block them all together. This can severely increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, including stroke or heart attack. 
 
Eating foods high in cholesterol or saturated trans fat, such as meat, dairy products, chocolate, palm or coconut oils, margarines, and many commercially prepared foods can raise your cholesterol to an unhealthy level. Other risk factors include smoking, obesity, or family history of heart disease.
 
Another type of cholesterol, known as high-density lipoprotein causes danger because the body is unable to hold on to it. The cholesterol moves easily through the blood and transfers to the liver where it is processed for removal before the body can even use it.
 
Cholesterol levels tend to rise with age and unfortunately there are hardly any signs or symptoms – only a blood test can reveal if you have an unhealthy cholesterol level.
 
Usually a physician would recommend exercising more and choosing healthier foods like fruits and vegetables. In some cases, medicine for lowering cholesterol may be prescribed.
 
To see if you or a loved one are at risk for developing high cholesterol please see the links below.

Evaluation and treatment for High Cholestrol is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives typically appear as an outbreak of swollen bumps or dry patches that might be pale or red. They will likely itch, but might also burn or sting, especially after scratching. On certain areas of the body, such as the face or mouth, the suffering is more pronounced. Hives are usually caused by a histamine response in which blood plasma leaks from the blood vessels in response to food allergies, chemicals, insect stings or medications.

Symptoms

• Raised, itchy bumps or patches of skin
• Swollen, blistered red welts

Who is at risk?

Anyone may be at risk. Foods that commonly cause hives include nuts, chocolate, fish, tomatoes, eggs, berries and milk. Animal dander, insect bites, pollen and some medications trigger hives. They can also result from emotional stress or illness. Sun exposure is another culprit.

Treatment

The majority of cases of chronic hives go undiagnosed. A physician directed skin test might determine the cause of the hives. Blood tests can determine a system wide disease triggering the outbreak. For chronic outbreaks, physicians will likely recommend an antihistamine with a cool compress or bath (without any soaps or bubbles).

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

Notify emergency help if symptoms are accompanied by dizziness, wheezing or breathing difficulty. Any swelling of the eyes or nose is a key indicator of an emergency situation. If a reaction is sudden and extreme, do not drive to an emergency department. Call 911.

Evaluation and treatment for Hives is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Hypertension

One third of people who have hypertension, or high blood pressure, do not even know it. Symptoms are generally undetected until the condition is severe. High blood pressure indicates a lack of quality blood flow, depleting vital organs of oxygen, which can lead to serious diseases like stroke, heart disease, kidney failure, anemia and eye problems.

Symptoms of Severe Hypertension

• Severe headache or vision problems
• Fatigue or lethargy
• Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, pounding in the ears
• Blood in the urine

Who is at risk?

Those at greatest risk of hypertension likely smoke, carry excessive weight, exercise very little, drink alcohol and carry a great deal of stress. A family history will contribute to vulnerability as well.

Treatment

The number one long term treatment for hypertension is a healthy lifestyle change: eating a balanced diet, kicking the smoking habit, managing your stress and exercising regularly. Medications to treat hypertension include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, diuretics, beta blockers and calcium channel blockers. Diagnosis definitely requires an experienced medical professional. Treatment requires continuity of care and close monitoring of your progress.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

Signs of hypertension are sneaky and hard to detect without medical diagnostics, but you should always seek emergency medical care if you have any of the severe symptoms listed above that do not abate in the course of a few minutes. Out of control hypertension may in some cases, be life threatening. Do not hesitate to call 911 to assist you.

Evaluation and treatment for Hypertension is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Infectious Diarrhea

Infectious diarrhea is caused by a contagious virus or bacteria as opposed to a symptomatic response to parasites or spoiled food. Like any infection, these are spread by contact with contaminated food or water, pets and fecal matter transferred from diapers or toilets to surfaces that people touch. Washing hands thoroughly and frequently is the best prevention.

Symptoms

• Runny or watery stool
• Dehydration, loss of appetite
• Increased urgency, volume and frequency of bowel movements
• Rectal irritation from watery stool
• Chills and fever

Who is at risk?

Children are often at greater risk when they use public restrooms and frequent environments with many other children. Travelers to third world countries are also at risk because of the differences in hygiene sometimes found there.

Treatment

Viral contagion is typically self limited and will eventually correct itself. Diarrhea caused by some bacteria will benefit from antibiotic treatment. The key to dealing with diarrhea is to stay hydrated.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

Consult a physician for emergency care with a fever of 102° F or higher, severe abdominal pain with vomiting or refusal to take fluids. If there is blood in the mucus or stool, get emergency help. In general, consult a doctor if signs of dehydration become apparent after 12 hours, such as dry mouth, lack of urine, lethargy or dizziness.

Treatment for Infectious Diarrhea is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Influenza (seasonal)

Influenza (the flu) is a virus that causes a contagious respiratory illness. Each year approximately 200,000 people in the U.S. are hospitalized because of the illness and 36,000 persons die.

Symptoms

• Fever
• Cough (without a cough, the illness is more likely a viral infection of another variety)
• Headache
• Malaise
• Muscle aches and severe tiredness
• Occasionally nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may be experienced

Who is at risk?

Everyone is at risk for influenza. Those most adversely affected include older people, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic debilitating illnesses.

Treatment

The best treatment is prevention. This can be accomplished by avoiding sick friends and relatives, frequently washing your hands, staying home from work or school if you are ill, and getting vaccinated with the seasonal flu vaccine when it becomes available. Specific treatment is usually geared toward easing the symptoms. Anti-virals such as Tamiflu or Relenza may be helpful if started within a 48-72 hour window.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

See a doctor if you are unable to keep liquids down or if you develop any issues with your breathing. One of the more common complications of the flu is bacterial pneumonia which can be very serious.

Flu vaccinations and Influenza treatment are available seasonably at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Insect Bites

Insect and spider bites are a common nuisance. Ordinarily, a bite causes only minor discomfort – a little redness, and some pain or itching. Often, home treatment or a first aid kit is all that is needed to treat it. However, some people experience great allergic reaction to bites, which may be life threatening.

Certain spiders such as black widow spider, brown recluse spider, and hobo spider, scorpion and puss caterpillar, as well as other insects, can cause a toxic reaction from a bite. The symptoms below are considered serious allergic reaction to bug and spider bites. Although they are not common, it is important to be aware of the possible effect once bitten, since an anaphylactic shock is possible from certain bites.

Symptoms

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of lips, tongue, ears, eyelids, hands and feet
• Disorientation and confusion
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Hives
• Reddening of the area around the bite (only if it grows and expands over 10 inches)

In most cases, a spider, insect or bug bite does not cause such a reaction. However, a person with no prior allergic incidents can still suffer from an allergic reaction. If you or a loved one experience the symptoms of anaphylactic shock it is important to call an emergency line for help. If symptoms are minimal, for example the area of the bite is red, itchy or slightly swollen, doctors recommend an antihistamine and ice to cool the area. To find out more about dangerous spiders, other insect bites and their effects please take a look at the websites we have provided for your further research.

Treatment for Insect Bites is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a problem that affects the large intestine, causing bloating, abdominal cramping, and significant changes in bowel habits.  Symptoms vary widely; some people with IBS have diarrhea, others have constipation, and some go back and forth between the two.  Although IBS is very uncomfortable, if does not harm the intestines. 
IBS is a very common disorder.  It happens far more often in women than men, and it’s exact cause remains unknown.  There is no specific test for IBS; however, your physician will likely test for other diseases before diagnosing you with IBS.  Many people with IBS can control their symptoms with diet, medicine, and stress management.

Symptoms

• Abdominal cramping or generalized abdominal ache
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Irregular bowel habits
• Feelings of urgency with bowel movements
• Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
• Heartburn
• Abdominal fullness

Many IBS patients also report non-gastrointestinal symptoms such as:

• Muscle pain
• Disturbed sleep
• Fatigue
• Sexual disfunction

Who is at risk?

• Women are roughly twice as likely to have IBS as men
• If you are under the age of 35, you are more likely to have IBS
• Genetics and heredity may play a role in instances of IBS

Treatment

In most instances of irritable bowel syndrome, change of diet and stress management can control your symptoms.  However, in moderate to severe cases of IBS, more lifestyle changes may be necessary.

• Medication specifically for IBS may be necessary for some patients
• Fiber supplements may help regulate bowel movements
• Counseling may help manage stress triggers
• Antidepressants may also help manage stress triggers
• Anti-diarrheal medications may help control diarrhea
• Eliminating high-gas foods may help with abdominal cramping
• Anticholinergic  medications may be necessary to relieve painful bowel spasms in some patients.
• Drinking plenty of liquids and regular exercise may also help many symptoms of IBS.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have prolonged symptoms (a few weeks)  of IBS or consistent disturbances and changes in your bowel habits, it is important to seek medical attention to rule out any more serious diseases such as colon cancer or Crohn’s disease.

Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.

Joint Dislocations

A joint dislocation is an injury that forces the articulating surface of bones out of position because of a harsh fall or blow to the limb. It can happen anywhere on the body. Shoulders, elbows and knees are the most frequent targets for dislocation.

Symptoms

• Swollen, painful joints
• Immobility
• Deformity at the joint

Who is at risk?

Contact sports and other high impact sports like skiing are the riskiest for dislocations. Some children experience chronic dislocations of limbs that are frequently pulled, like the elbow. This is known as a nursemaid’s elbow.

Treatment

Depending on the affected joint, a physician might reposition the bone and apply a splint or sling while the surrounding tissue heals. Once dislocated, a joint is more likely to dislocate again, therefore physical therapy is often prescribed to strengthen the surrounding tissue. Protective gear for athletes is also prescribed.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

Seek immediate medical attention for any dislocation.

Treatment for Joint Dislocations is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.