Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard deposits of mineral and acid salts that eventually will pass (painfully) through your urinary system. The stones normally would be diluted in the urine, but if they solidify, the hard stone will have to pass through the ureter to be eradicated. The pain can be excruciating.
Symptoms
- Pain in the lower back, radiating to the abdomen and groin.
- Painful urination accompanied by fever and chills.
- Nausea and vomiting might accompany the pain.
Who is at risk?
Men are more likely than women to develop kidney stones, especially in the 20-70 age range. High ingestion of protein or sodium is linked to kidney stones. Bedridden patients are prone to develop stones because the bones release more calcium. Obesity is also linked to stones, especially in women.
Treatment
Treatment will vary from physical activity and water consumption to advanced procedures (such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy) to break the stones into smaller pieces. Surgical removal is prescribed only in extreme cases where shock wave therapy is not successful. In the majority of cases, the stone will pass without assistance. Your physician can help you endure this process by administering pain medication until the stone works its way out (usually 1-3 days).
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Seek help in the emergency department when symptoms persist with fever and/or vomiting. The ED can administer IV fluids to hydrate if you cannot keep food and liquids down. Fever might indicate infection on top of the kidney stone. This is sometimes treated during admission to the hospital for pain and infection control.
Treatment for Kidney Stones is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Mastitis
Mastitis is a painful infection of the breast tissue that most commonly affects women who are breast feeding. Swelling occurs where milk ducts, or alveoli, are clogged by dirt or bacteria, preventing milk flow and creating inflammation. Some women stop breast feeding because of the pain, but the infection actually does not affect the baby’s milk.
Symptoms
- Sore, red, cracked nipples
- Fever over 101.3°F (38.5°C), chills, flu-like symptoms
Who is at risk?
Breast feeding women, most commonly in the first two to three weeks post-partum, should be on the watch for mastitis. It can occur in menopausal women as well.
Treatment
Breast feeding women should keep the breast tissue clean and dry, wear a comfortable bra, and feed in a position that aids milk flow. Fluids also assist with healthy breast feeding. A physician might want to start the patient on antibiotics, with a warm compress to ease the swelling. A physical exam will also help the physician rule out an abscess or other complications that need attention.
Breast infections outside of lactation also occur with the onset of menopause. Any unusual bump or tenderness in the breast should be pointed out to a physician.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Flu like symptoms in addition to redness around the nipple are key signs that it’s time to contact a physician to rule out a more serious problem.
Treatment for Mastitis is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Motion Sickness
Motion sickness occurs when the body is trying to catch up with the motion the eye is taking in. The inner ear, eyes, and other areas of the body that detect motion may sometimes send conflicting messages to the brain causing an uneasy or nauseous feeling.
Symptoms
- General malaise, nausea or vomiting
- Headache and profuse sweating
Who is at risk?
Children 5-12 and the elderly suffer most. Women are more susceptible than men. Anyone subject to a rapid change in motion is at risk for motion sickness.
Treatment
Symptoms are hard to stop once they start and will usually subside over time once the motion factor is removed or mitigated (taking a central cabin on a ship, sitting over the wing on an airplane, moving from passenger to driver’s seat in a car, etc.). Physicians might treat recurring motion sickness with over the counter or prescription medications, depending on the severity of symptoms. Antihistamines are used to clear up blocked ear canals in adults, but a physician should be consulted before an antihistamine is administered for motion sickness in children.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
If symptoms become progressively worse, see a physician who can diagnose the source of the problem and refer you to a proper inner ear specialist.
Treatment for Motion Sickness is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Neck Pain
Pain in the cervical region is one of the most common reasons for a visit to the doctor. Underlying causes of the discomfort may range from a minor neck strain from sleeping on too many pillows to bacterial meningitis which may be life-threatening.
Symptoms
- Pain with rotation or flexion/extension of the neck
- Pain across the upper shoulder region
- Stiffness in the muscles which move the head and neck
- Swelling of the muscles which move the head and neck
- Band-like tightness around the head (tension headache) may result as an extension of neck muscle pain and vice-versa
- Accompanying headache and fever are ominous signs
Who is at risk?
Anyone may be at risk for neck pain. While we may suspect more serious causes of neck pain in certain age groups such as meningitis in small children or college age young adults, we may see neck stiffness and pain from minor injury in any age group. One of the most common presenting histories accompanying neck pain is that of being rear-ended in an automobile which usually results in muscle strain to the neck and upper back muscles. Another common source in middle age groups and seniors is pain from osteoarthritis which is simply the wearing out of the discs and vertebra which make up the spinal column.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the source of the pain. Anyone suspected of neck pain from meningitis should be evaluated by a physician immediately. If the physician suspects meningitis as an origin of your discomfort, they may perform a lumbar puncture to extract fluid from your spinal column for testing. Meningitis is potentially life-threatening and will likely require your admission to the hospital for observation and continued treatment with IV antibiotics.
Musculoskeletal sources of neck pain are usually treated conservatively with anti-inflammatory medication such as Motrin or Aleve and possibly a muscle relaxer which may be prescribed by your doctor. Ice may be applied to muscles of the neck in the event of an acute injury. Heat may allow some relaxation of the muscles when an older injury or arthritis is suspected as the cause of the pain.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor immediately if you have neck pain associate with a headache and fever. This needs to be evaluated immediately for the possibility of meningitis.
You should also seek attention for neck pain resulting from a serious accident such as falling from a roof or being in a rollover accident in a vehicle. Mechanisms of injury such as these may result in a fracture to the bones in the neck or back. If you suspect this, you should have someone call 911 immediately and lie still until the paramedics can immobilize your neck and spine for transport. Careless treatment of a neck or back fracture may result in paralysis or death depending upon the level of the injury.
Treatment for Neck Pain is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Nosebleeds (Epistaxis)
Nosebleeds come on quickly and unexpectedly most commonly due to dryness in the air, which in turn causes rupturing and cracking the dry nasal membrane. Sinus infections and allergies can also trigger nosebleeds, as well as trauma to the nose. Sometimes it’s just a wandering young finger.
Symptoms
- Bloody nose draining from the nostril
- Blood draining down the back of the throat
Who is at risk?
Nosebleeds from dryness will naturally occur more often in the winter, when people are moving from frigid to heated air. If there is a history of epistaxis in the family, it is likely to show up again in young ones. Hypertension can contribute to epistaxis. Those who work around chemical fumes or smoke might be susceptible. People on blood thinners such as Coumadin may also be at higher risk for a nosebleed.
Treatment
The most immediate trick is to pinch the nostrils to stop the blood flow. Reclining the head help slow the blood flow as well. Hold the nostrils pinched together for at least 10 minutes before looking to see if the bleeding has stopped. A humid environment will help ease the dryness of the sinus membranes, as well as a nasal lubricant which may be suggested by your physician. For more stubborn nosebleeds, a physician might recommend packing the nasal cavity with gauze or even performing surgical cauterization of the offending blood vessels in the nose.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
If the bleeding does not slow down in a few minutes or the blood loss is abnormally large, causing weakness or dizziness, seek emergency medical care right away.
Treatment for Nosebleeds is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Palpitations
Heart palpitations are characterized by an unusually rapid or abnormal heartbeat that might be accompanied by other symptoms. Causes can range from a variety of physical contributions to sheer anxiety. Your heart contains its own electrical system and these abnormalities may signal a brief short circuit in the system.
Symptoms
- Fluttering, flop or thump in the chest
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
Who is at risk?
Anyone will have an occasional abnormal heart beat, whether they are aware or not. Palpitations may be elicited by caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, diet supplements and many over the counter cold medicines. Illegal drugs, especially cocaine and amphetamines, are a prevalent cause. One organic cause may be an overactive thyroid. Severe heart disease and past heart attacks may predispose you to some of the more severe forms of abnormal heart beats.
Treatment
Many episodes of palpitations are benign and may be addressed by carefully sorting out the potential cause of the irregular beats (such as too many cups of coffee) and then getting rid of that cause. More serious electrical abnormalities may require a very brief electrical shock or medication for correction. You must let a medical professional evaluate whether your palpitation is mild or serious. There are no home treatments for a serious case of irregular heart beat and you may be putting your life at risk by not having it promptly evaluated.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
If the patient experiences chest pain, breathing difficulty, weakness or numbness with palpitations or loses consciousness, call 911 immediately. If you experience a brief palpitation that might be related to caffeine, alcohol or medications you’ve ingested, call your primary care physician or come in to Omni-Med for evaluation.
Evaluation and treatment for Palpitations is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Pelvic Pain
Sudden or emerging pain in the pelvic region, below the navel and between the hips, can be a warning sign that there is a problem or infection within the reproductive organs, bowels, bladder, or kidney.
Symptoms
- Severe or steady cramping or dull pain in the pelvic region
- A heavy feeling or pressure near the pelvis
- Painful intercourse or pain during bowel movements
- Intermittent or constant pain that intensifies after standing long periods
Who is at risk?
Women might manifest pelvic pain because of a gynecologic condition (endometriosis, fibroids, cysts or pelvic adhesions) or because of an infection.
Treatment
A physician will want to assess the circumstances and frequency of the pain and will possibly perform a pelvic exam to gather further evidence. Treatment will range from antibiotics for an infection to surgical correction for growths, cysts, or tumors. If the cause is determined to be irritable bowel syndrome or diverticulitis, lifestyle and dietary changes will likely be part of the directed course.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
See a physician if the pain disrupts your daily life or symptoms grow worse over a short period of time (a few days).
Treatment for Pelvic Pain is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lung resulting from a cold or upper respiratory infection. The passages that carry air into your lungs get inflamed and filled with fluid, making it hard to breathe. This infection may be caused by a bacteria, virus, or fungus. Bacterial pneumonia is contracted simply from breathing infected air particles from the mouth, throat or nose into the lungs. Exposure may occur at school or work (called community acquired pneumonia), in a hospital (healthcare acquired pneumonia), or by breathing contaminant particles into your lungs, perhaps from vomiting or exposure to hazardous materials. Each type of pneumonia is treated differently.
Symptoms
- Cough with fever, breathing difficulty
- Mucus that appears rusty or green, maybe bloody
- Fever with chills
- Rapid heartbeat, breathing with shortness of breath or chest pains
- Fatigue, weakness, confusion
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Who is at risk?
Anyone with a cold or prolonged illness can easily contract pneumonia. Healthy persons may also be exposed to it simply through normal daily activities. Anyone with an impaired immune system is at greater risk of contracting pneumonia. Persons who have suffered a stroke or seizure are at risk of developing pneumonia due to the aspiration of food, vomit or other particles from the mouth or nose into the lungs.
Treatment
In addition to performing a physical exam, your doctor might order a chest x-ray and blood test to help diagnose pneumonia or to determine its severity. Bacterial pneumonia will be treated with antibiotics, but typical pneumonia symptoms are treated with rest, sleep and liquids for up to three weeks. Other medications may be useful for treating the symptoms associated with pneumonia such as cough, fever and wheezing.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Seek treatment right away if mucus coughed up from your lungs runs yellow or green for more than two days, especially with a fever over 101°F. Severe breathing difficulty should be seen in the hospital ED right away.
Treatment for Pneumonia is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Pregnancy Test
A pregnancy test analyzes the urine or blood for the pregnancy hormone, officially called human chorionic gonadotropin, or hCG. Within a week of an egg joining with a sperm, a fertilized egg implants in the uterus; this is where hCG is made and builds rapidly over the term of a pregnancy.
Symptoms
- Woman’s menstrual cycle is over a week late
- Possibly nausea, vomiting, followed by extreme hunger
Who is at risk?
Any woman of child bearing age who is sexually active can become pregnant, regardless of measures taken for prevention.
Treatment
If an over-the-counter urine test (home pregnancy test or HPT) turns up positive, a physician can order a blood test for hCG to verify the pregnancy is positive. Home pregnancy tests are usually fairly accurate.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
There is typically no need to consult emergency services for a pregnancy test, unless severe vaginal bleeding and/or pelvic pain is present. If a home pregnancy test is positive, arrange a follow up appointment with a physician for prenatal care.
Pregnancy Testing is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Pulmonary Function Testing (Lung Test)
A pulmonary function test is conducted to assess the ability of your lungs to take in and expel air and move oxygen from the air into the circulatory system.
Test Procedure
- Your nose will typically be clipped shut
- You will be asked to blow forcefully into a small paper or plastic tube
- An operator will coach you while you perform the tests
What is being assessed with the test?
The most common reason to conduct pulmonary function testing is to evaluate a patient for asthma, chronic bronchitis or emphysema. The tests may also be used in occupational environments to assess for lung damage after contact with hazardous materials.
What if my test is abnormal?
You probably received the test because you were experiencing some kind of difficulty breathing. Your physician will use the information gathered from the testing to guide medication use or to evaluate a current medications effect on your condition.
Pulmonary Function Testing is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Rash (dermatologic)
A rash is indicated by a change in the color or texture of the epidermis: the top layer of skin. Adult rashes can be triggered by environmental factors (exposure to sun, chemicals, and poisonous plants) or internal factors (exposure to allergens, medications, acne, etc.). Knowing your own skin is the first key to properly treating skin rashes.
Symptoms
- Red bumps and radiating redness
- Itching, burning sensation, unusual accompanied by red bumps
- Cracked, scaly skin or blisters
Who is at risk?
Diabetes can contribute to skin rashes. Adult acne has a tendency to show up in peri-menopausal women, as early as the late 30s.
Treatment
Dermatologists will advise keeping the affected skin clean and dry until a rash can be examined, but there are topical creams that may relieve the itching and burning sensation. Hydrocortisone is widely recommended as a first stop for rashes, but if this does nothing to reduce the symptoms, consult a physician.
Rashes that develop because of an allergy or a contagious disease really should be treated by a physician who can diagnose the source of the outbreak and prescribe the most effective treatment, from creams to antibiotics. If the rash is possibly associated with something you’ve eaten, of course refrain from eating that item again until you have seen a doctor. Bring with you the box or package with full ingredient disclosure to rule out a food allergy.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Seek emergency help right away if your eyes or throat are swollen. Even the slightest swelling can restrict breathing and could lead to anaphylaxis. Be prepared for your appointment with a physician by noting when the rash first occurred, what you ate in the past 24 hours, if and how quickly the rash has spread and what treatments you have tried at home.
Treatment for Rashes is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Rash (pediatric)
Rashes in children present from a variety of causes, from “baby acne” and diaper rash to poison ivy. If the rash appears on the inside of elbow and knee joints, this is an indication of an allergy, especially if baby is taking a milk-based formula. Rashes on the tummy can indicate a number of conditions including Chicken Pox, Eczema or Ringworm.
Symptoms
- Diaper rash: bumps and general redness
- Itching, burning sensation, unusual red bumps
Who is at risk?
Anyone can develop a skin reaction to environmental allergens, but babies have to be watched carefully, especially as different foods are introduced. Children in day care centers are exposed to many other kids, which should keep parents on high alert for Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease, Fifth Disease and similar contagious infections.
Treatment
Keep the skin clean and dry. This is the best way to prevent rashes in places where bacteria and yeast grow, like in a diaper. There are a number of topical treatments for diaper rash once it has started; these will ease the itching and pain, but clean changing habits are the best prevention. Rashes that develop because of an allergy or a contagious disease really should be treated by a physician who can diagnose the source of the outbreak and prescribe the most effective treatment.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Seek emergency help right away if the patient’s eyes or throat are swollen. Even the slightest swelling can restrict breathing and could lead to anaphylaxis. Any itching in the mouth or nose or symptoms accompanied by fever should be seen by a physician.
Be prepared for your appointment with a physician by noting when the rash first occurred, what the patient has eaten in the past 24 hours, if and how quickly the rash has spread and what treatments you have tried at home.
Treatment for Pediatric Rashes is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Rectal Bleeding
The rectum is the part of the large intestine just before the anus. Bleeding from the rectum can be caused by hemorrhoids, dysentery, or an inflammatory bowel disease. Rectal bleeding can be a sign of diverticular disease, which is caused by a lack of fiber in the diet.
Symptoms
- Black, tarry or bloody stools
- Anal itching
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
Who is at risk?
See more details on diverticular disease for common risks. Rectal bleeding in children can easily result from constipation, but might also result from a twisted bowel or intestinal obstruction and must be evaluated immediately.
Treatment
For minimal bleeding due to hemorrhoids or rectal fissures, physicians will usually direct home treatment with lots of water, ice packs and possibly over the counter ointments or suppositories to create movement in the bowels or to soften the stool. Emergency treatment might include an IV in the case of dehydration. The patient could be admitted to the hospital if excessive blood loss has occurred and the vital signs are not normal.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
When fever, pain, vomiting, lightheadedness or discolored stool (black or maroon colored) accompanies rectal bleeding, consult a physician right away. Severe rectal bleeds can be life threatening and should be evaluated in the ED immediately.
Treatment for Rectal Bleeding is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Red Eye (Conjunctivitis)
Red eye is a general term describing redness of the eye due to illness, injury, allergy or contact with anything else that may irritate the eyes. Also referred to as “blood shot” eyes, the condition is usually not painful. The redness is caused by irritation to the membranes covering the whites of the eyes.
Symptoms
- Red streaks in the whites of the eyes
- Discharge and swelling may accompany the redness and indicate an infection known commonly as “pink eye” or conjuntivitis
Who is at risk?
Anyone. School aged children tend to pass pink eye around because of constant contact and sharing of classroom objects. The viruses and bacteria that cause these conjunctival infections can be picked up from inanimate objects as well.
Treatment
If the redness is bacterial, a physician will prescribe an antibiotic. There are drops, both over the counter and prescription, that alleviate redness due to allergy, but a physician or ophthalmologist should direct the use of any eye drops. Chemical irritation needs to be flushed immediately and pain medication might be prescribed to ease the burning sensation until the irritation has cleared.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Seek advice from a doctor or ophthalmologist to examine and diagnose your problem. If chemicals or cleaning solvents get in your eyes, flush with huge amounts of fresh water and seek emergency medical help immediately. Bacterial infections and eye injuries require a doctor’s care. Never take chances with your eyesight.
Treatment for Red Eye is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Reflux
Reflux, commonly known as heartburn, is a condition in which food or bile travels back up the esophagus from the stomach, leaving an acidic taste in the mouth. Triggers can include certain foods, medications, obesity or even stress. In rare cases, reflux might be caused by a GI tract disease or even birth defect that constricts the movement of food in the small intestines. In most cases, though, reflux is easily treated with dietary changes.
Symptoms
- Heartburn was so named because of a burning sensation in the chest or throat
- A bilious taste in the mouth accompanied by regurgitated food or liquid
- Fullness, bloating, burping, or nausea after eating
- Left upper quadrant abdominal pain or aching
Who is at risk?
Anyone, although symptoms are more prevalent with those who are overweight or pregnant. Heartburn has nothing to do with the heart, but heartburn pain can be confused with pain related to heart problems. There have been studies showing that 50% of persons presenting to their physician with a heart attack are also experiencing heartburn. Do not ignore these symptoms if you are at risk of heart disease.
Treatment
There are medications that improve heartburn, but none better than watching your diet for items that trigger reflux and then avoiding them. Eat moderately and slowly, taking time to let your food digest and send signals to your brain that you are full before you have had the opportunity to overeat. Over the counter antacids can help if you are already in the throes of heartburn. Take these products as directed by a physician who can help determine whether you need stronger prescription medication. Surgical correction might be directed by a physician as a last resort once other remedies are exhausted.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Seek emergency medical treatment if complications from reflux include excessive vomiting, blood in your stool or emesis, severe pain, dizziness, difficulty swallowing, dehydration or unintentional weight loss.
Treatment for Reflux is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
RSV
RSV is the common term for respiratory syncytial virus, which affects nearly all children under two with cold-like symptoms. In premature infants and babies with immune deficiencies, though, RSV can develop into a severe case that requires hospitalization.
Symptoms
- Cold symptoms like cough, stuffy/runny nose, earaches and fever
- Fussiness in infants, reduced hunger
- Wheezing or breathing difficulty in severe cases
Who is at risk?
Almost all children under two years old will get RSV. Preemies and children with immune problems are at a higher risk of complications. People over 65, especially those with heart or lung problems, are highly susceptible as well.
Treatment
Only a physician can diagnose RSV. Most cases of RSV pass like a common cold, but it’s important to watch symptoms especially in kids with a weakened immune system before they escalate into pneumonia or worse.
Treatment for general cases usually includes proper hydration, pain or fever reducers, raising the head and shoulders with pillows and sometimes antibiotics in the event an ear infection sets in. Support for respiratory complications will be key.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Get emergency help if the patient has difficulty breathing, speaking or crying. Watch the patient inhale and see if they are lifting the shoulders or flaring the nostrils. Check the skin for discoloration (gray, mottled or blue) indicating a respiratory problem.
In general, consult a physician if the patient has a history of immune problems, especially if symptoms worsen over 24 hours. Never take a baby or small child that is having severe respiratory difficulty to the emergency department in your own vehicle. Call 911 and let the experts monitor their airway during transport.
Treatment for RSV is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
School and Sports Physicals
Kids going to camp or registering to participate in school sports typically are required to have a physical exam and a signed release from a physician. Insurance providers typically do not cover the charge for this service. Primary care providers and urgent care centers can usually perform these evaluations quickly and for a fairly small cost.
Who needs a physical?
Kids participating in team sports or enrolling in camps.
Treatment
The typical physical exam includes a height and weight measurement, blood pressure check and a look at the eyes, ears and throat. The doctor or nurse will likely listen to the heart and lungs for healthy patterns and feel the abdomen for any abnormalities.
If there is a problem, the physician might approve the activity under certain conditions or providing certain medications continue to be taken. If there is an old injury that might affect the patient’s performance, the doctor will prescribe the best way to avoid furthering the injury.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
If the student experiences any health related issues while participating in their activity, the activity should stop and evaluation by a professional conducted before resuming play.
School and Sports Physicals are available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Commonly called STDs, sexually transmitted diseases are infections spread from person to person through intimate genital contact (that includes genital contact with the mouth or anus). STDs are an embarrassing condition for anyone, but the risk of developing a serious complication should far outweigh any embarrassment in seeking medical help.
Symptoms
- Bumps, rashes or sores near the vagina, penis, anus or mouth
- Painful urination, loose stools, discharge from the penis or vagina
- Weight loss, night sweats, aches associated with fever
- Painful intercourse or itching near the penis or vagina
Who is at risk?
Any sexually active person is at risk.
Treatment
Depending on the type of STD, there may be a prescription medication or shot that will relieve your symptoms. Gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis are common and are all treatable. Genital herpes and HIV are permanent conditions with treatment available to improve your quality of life. Talk to your doctor about the options in your particular case.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
STDs in pregnant women can cause early labor. If symptoms persist in a pregnant woman, medical attention is necessary. Anyone with a suspected STD that has had contact with someone not known to them or someone in a high risk category for HIV should seek medical advice and treatment.
Treatment and testing for Sexually Transmitted Diseases is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Shingles
When you experience shingles the skin may be painful and sensitive to touch, presenting a bruised feeling before any visual evidence of a shingles rash shows up. The outbreak is usually isolated to a particular area, but can appear anywhere on your body – most often as a band or circle of blisters. Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. The virus lies inactive in nerve tissues until reactivated as shingles.
Symptoms
- Band or circle of small blisters on a red base
- Bruised sensation, hot to the touch and mildly feverish
- Headache or fatigue related to the feverish itching
Who is at risk?
Anyone who has had chicken pox is carrying the varicella zoster virus. It can be activated by stress or a weakened immune system. Shingles is contagious and can be spread to someone who has not had chicken pox!
Treatment
Seek physician treatment to start antiviral drugs within 72 hours of the first sign of the shingles rash. If the incident is not diagnosed and treated within 72 hours, the only option is to wait out the rash with the aid of acetaminophen or a similar pain reducer. If the symptoms worsen, a physician might prescribe a numbing cream or more aggressive painkillers. A cool bath or compress might relieve the itching.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
A singles infection near the eyes or ears can progress into a serious neurological problem causing sensory loss. Get emergency help if the rash appears anywhere on the face or head or inside the mouth or nose.
Treatment for Shingles is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Sinus Infection
Sinus infections (sinusitis) are caused by inflamed or infected sinuses. Most cases are preceded by an occurrence of the common cold virus, which inflames the sinuses and causes symptoms of a sinus infection. The inflammation caused by the cold virus results in swelling of the mucus membranes, which traps mucus and air behind the narrow openings of the sinuses. During the common cold, the typically harmless bacteria residing in the nose and throat may enter the sinuses through changes in pressure caused by the act of sniffling and blowing your nose. When mucus remains trapped and unable to drain from behind the sinuses into the nose, it provides an ample source of nutrients for these normally innocuous bacteria, thus leading to sinusitis. Health professionals typically group sinusitis cases into:
- Acute cases, which last for 4 weeks or less
- Subacute cases, which last 4 to 12 weeks
- Chronic cases, which last more than 12 weeks and can continue for months or even years
- Recurrent cases, which involve several acute attacks within a year
Symptoms
- Stuffy nose, a loss of smell, and tenderness when you touch the sides of your nose
- Pain in the forehead over the frontal sinuses when touched
- Upper jaw and teeth ache, or cheeks are tender to the touch
- Pain around the eyelids or upper eyes
- Earaches, neck pain, and deep achiness at the top of your head
Who is at risk?
- Those who are afflicted with the common cold virus
- People with acute or chronic allergies that cause stuffiness and poor sinus drainage
- Those with asthma have been shown to be at very high risk for chronic sinusitis
Treatment of Condition
- Antibiotics to control a bacterial infection, if present
- Pain relievers to reduce any pain
- Decongestants to reduce congestion
- In chronic or recurrent cases, surgery to aid sinus drainage may be necessary
When should I see a doctor?
If over-the-counter medicines used to relieve symptoms of the common cold prove to be ineffective and pain and stuffiness persist for more than three days, seek medical attention.
Treatment for Sinus Infection is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Sore Throat
There are many causes of sore throat, the most common of which are colds and the flu. Other causes can include strep throat, allergies, smoking, tonsillitis, and mononucleosis. Sore throat is also called Pharyngitis.
Symptoms
A sore throat may be a symptom of a more serious infection or condition, such as strep throat or tonsillitis. Symptoms that commonly accompany a sore throat include:
- Fever
- Swelling and pain in the throat and tonsils
- Body aches or headaches
- Sores in the mouth, white patches on the tonsils
- Persistent cough or runny nose
Who is at risk?
If you have a bacterial of viral infection, if you are a smoker or suffer from allergies, you are at risk for a sore throat.
Treatment of Condition
Treatment of a sore throat varies depending on the cause. If you have a bacterial infection such as strep throat, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics. If your sore throat is caused by a virus, gargling with salt water and over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen will relive most pain and accompanying symptoms of a sore throat. If your sore throat is caused by allergies, your doctor may prescribe medicines for your allergies or recommend over-the-counter medications to help deal with your allergy triggers. In extreme cases, if you have recurring instances of sore throat from tonsillitis, you may have to have your tonsils surgically removed.
When should I see a doctor?
- If a severe sore throat and fever over 101 degrees lasts longer than one or two days, seek medical attention, as this is probably a sign of serious infection.
- If you have difficulty sleeping because your throat is blocked by swollen tonsils, seek medical attention.
- If a red rash that feels like sandpaper appears, it is a sign of scarlet fever and should be treated immediately.
Treatment for Sore Throat is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Sprains and Strains
The difference between a sprain and a strain is the body part affected. A sprain is a ligament tear, most commonly in the ankle. A strain is a muscle or tendon tear or overstretching.
Symptoms
- Sprain symptoms include pain, swelling, and sometimes a bruised sensation with limited mobility.
- A “pop” in the joint will occasionally occur.
- Strain symptoms include pain, swelling, muscle spasms and limited mobility.
Who is at risk?
Strains and sprains most often happen in relation with sports as a result of fatigue or poor conditioning. The risk is also higher if muscles are not properly warmed prior to activity. People who have a previous sprain or strain that has not completely healed have a higher risk of re-injury.
Treatment
Initial treatment is usually rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE). A physician might direct use of a splint or brace to immobilize the area while it heals. Surgical correction is reserved for severe cases, especially in sport injuries.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
See a physician if the patient cannot walk more than a few steps or cannot move the affected joint. Numbness is another indicator that needs medical attention. Red streaks radiating from the affected area need to be evaluated as well. If you injure the same area repeatedly, you should also see a doctor.
Treatment for Sprains and Strains is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Tendonitis
Tendons connect muscles to bones and are employed to contract the muscle when we jump, walk and lift. When those tendons become inflamed from overuse they may hurt. This is referred to as tendonitis. As we age, we become more prone to tendonitis as the blood supply to the tendons changes.
Symptoms
- Tender soreness or swelling right over a tendon
- Pain associated with movement
- Loss of motion
Who is at risk?
Anyone can develop tendonitis. It’s more prevalent in the elderly, but we are all susceptible when we use muscles in a new way or overuse muscles gardening, painting, skiing or pulling a heavy suitcase through the airport terminal. It occurs most frequently in the thumb, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee and Achilles tendon.
Treatment
While X-rays help doctors diagnose bone fractures, tendonitis does not show up on film. A physician will treat the condition based on the patient’s history. Rest and protection are the general course of treatment for tendonitis. A splint or brace might be used to protect the area. An ice pack might reduce inflammation. In extreme cases, a physician might prescribe anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injections. Surgical correction is rare. The best way to avoid recurrence is to strengthen the tendon by using the surrounding muscles safely.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Seek emergency help if symptoms occur with a fever, redness with the swelling, general illness or all over pain.
Treatment for Tendonitis is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Tetanus
Tetanus is an infectious condition caused by bacterium called Clostridium tetani that live in the soil. This organism may survive for very long periods in the form of spores and can enter the body through any break in the skin.
Symptoms
- Irritability
- Sore Muscles
- Weakness
- Muscle cramps usually originating in the face (this is where the term “lockjaw” originated)
- Arching of the back from spasm
Who is at risk?
Anyone sustaining a break in the skin may be at risk of infection. Wounds of typical concern are puncture wounds from a contaminated source although it is possible to contract tetanus from lesser known sources such as corneal abrasions and insect bites. Since the discovery and widespread use of tetanus vaccinations, the US sees only 40-50 cases of tetanus a year.
Treatment
Early and aggressive wound cleaning and evaluation of your tetanus booster status is essential to prevention of tetanus. Treatment for established disease consists of antibiotic therapy, a tetanus booster, and possibly an antitoxin to neutralize the effects of the neurotoxins released by the bacterium. In addition, supportive care will be crucial as the tetanus toxin has the ability to affect the diaphragm and subsequently your ability to breathe.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
You must see a physician immediately if you have a history consistent with a break in the skin followed by any of the symptoms listed above.
Tetanus treatment and shots are available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Tetanus Prophylaxis
Tetanus is a condition that leads to severe, disabling muscle spasms caused by a neurotoxin that poisons the body’s nervous system. Tetanus may be prevented by staying current on your tetanus vaccination. State mandated well child guidelines include Tdap and DTaP vaccinations, depending on the age and weight of the child.
Symptoms
- Muscle spasms in the jaw
- Difficulty swallowing or stiffness in the neck, shoulders or back
- Spasms can spread to the abdomen, arms and thighs
Who is at risk?
Unvaccinated, mortality rates are high for individuals over 60. Anyone who has encountered a puncture wound involving rusty or dirty metal, such as a nail or a barbed wire, is susceptible to developing the condition.
Treatment
Tetanus is usually treated in the hospital and often in the intensive care unit with antibiotics and medication to neutralize the toxin that has been released.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Seek emergency medical care right away if symptoms follow an accidental puncture wound, especially if the patient has not been immunized.
Tetanus treatment and shots are available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Tooth Pain
Pain radiating from the teeth or jaws could be caused by a problem with the teeth or an inflammation of the sinus cavity. Tooth related pain indicates a cavity, cracked tooth, exposed root or disease of the gums. If the damage gets down to the root, infection can set in, along with serious, disabling pain.
Symptoms
- Hot or cold sensitivity in the teeth
- Pain associated with chewing
- Blood or discharge from tooth or gums
- Injury to the teeth
- Receding gums, wrinkled feeling at the base of the gums
Who is at risk?
Anyone is at risk for injury to a tooth. Family history is a contributor to dental caries and gum disease. Follow a dentist’s instructions concerning tooth pain following dental work. Wisdom teeth can come out at any age – some people get them at 12 and others at 22.
Treatment
A dentist will want to evaluate any tooth pain to make sure the patient gets the correct treatment. Antibiotics might be necessary if an infection has set in. Sometimes teeth need to be pulled and in severe cases a root canal is required to seal off the offended root to quell the pain.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Contact a physician or dentist for emergency treatment if a tooth is knocked out or severe swelling of an infected area is accompanied by fever. Any persistent symptoms should be diagnosed by a dentist/doctor, especially if over-the-counter aids don’t help. While the dentist will be the provider offering a final solution to the problem, an urgent care physician can help you with pain and infection control after hours.
Treatment for Tooth Pain is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Tuberculosis Skin Testing
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease usually affecting the lungs (but may involve many other organs) which is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. If not treated properly, this disease may be fatal. Two methods of exposure detection exist. The most common is the Mantoux Tuberculin Skin Test also known as a PPD Test. Your skin’s reaction to the injected tuberculin could be a sign that you have had an exposure to TB. The other is a blood test called an IGRA which may be utilized as a confirmatory test for an equivocal skin test or in someone that has been vaccinated for TB in another country.
Test Procedure
- A medical team member will inject 0.1 ml of tuberculin to form a wheal under the skin of the inside of your forearm.
- The test result is evaluated by an experienced “reader” 48 to 72 hours later.
- A positive result is any area of induration (hardening and inflammation of the skin) that measures 5mmin diameter or more. A table with additional specifics may be used as a reference for certain at-risk populations.
Who is at risk for testing positive?
Anyone who has been exposed to Tuberculosis through a family member or in the care of a patient may test positive and require further evaluation. Many countries outside the US commonly administer a vaccine for Tuberculosis called BCG. BCG recipients will have a positive skin reaction to the tuberculin injection. IGRA blood tests mentioned above can be useful for testing people with a history of receiving BCG as they will not yield a false positive. In addition, people engaging in high risk behaviors such as IV drug use or those with damaged immune systems are at higher risk for TB.
What if I test positive?
You will be directed to see your medical care provider for confirmatory testing. This typically consists of a chest x-ray to look for signs of the disease, blood testing and sputum culture testing to confirm the presence of the bacterium.
What if these tests confirm that I have TB?
If you are found to have latent TB (you are not sick but have the bacterium in your body) you will be required to be on an antibiotic called INH for up to 9 months. Persons with active TB (you have signs and symptoms of TB along with evidence of the bacterium in your body) will need to be on several medications for up to a year.
Tuberculosis skin testing as well as treatment is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Urinary Tract Infections
The urinary tract includes the kidney, ureters (tubes that take urine from each kidney to the bladder), the bladder itself and the urethra, which empties the bladder of urine. Urinary tract infections (UTI) can be present anywhere along the urinary tract. UTIs may be very uncomfortable especially during urination. Prevention is fairly simple: drink plenty of water and keep the ureter area clean by wiping from front to back.
Symptoms
- Cloudy urine accompanied by pain in urination
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate, especially at night
- Painful ejaculation in a male
- If infection persists: fever and back or flank pain may develop
- Mental confusion in the elderly
Who is at risk?
Women and especially elderly women are at greater risk for UTI than men. This generally is due to the very short urethra in women that doesn’t provide as much of a barrier to contamination. Hygiene could be an issue with the elderly or infirm.
Treatment
A urinalysis will analyze a sample of urine taken in a cup for bacteria. If the test is positive, a doctor will prescribe an antibiotic, which should alleviate the symptoms within a few days. Recurring UTIs will require stronger antibiotics. While recovering at home, drink plenty of water to flush bacteria from your urine and avoid caffeine, alcohol and citrus beverages until your infection has cleared.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Contact a physician or proceed to an emergency department if customary symptoms are accompanied by back or side pain, chills, fever and/or vomiting.
Treatment for Urinary Tract Infections is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Vaginal Bleeding
Irregular vaginal bleeding, known among doctors as menorrhagia, is an understandable cause for concern. Before alerting your doctor about abnormal bleeding, take note how far apart your menstrual cycles fall and how long they last. Note if there is any bleeding in between normal cycles. This is important to help your doctor diagnose the cause of intermittent or unusually heavy bleeding.
Symptoms
- Any bleeding outside of a regular menstrual cycle
- Abnormally heavy bleeding during menses noted by an increase in the number of tampons or pads used during a menstrual cycle
Who is at risk?
Women, ages 13 through 65, depending on the onset of menses and menopause. African American women tend to experience a greater share of dysfunctional uterine bleeding, as well as women approaching menopause. Adolescents in the first two years of menstruation commonly experience heavy bleeding. Women using IUDs might experience trauma (injury to the vaginal wall) that is inflicted by the device itself.
Treatment
At home, make sure the bleeding is coming from the vagina and not from the rectum or urine. eMedicine suggests inserting a tampon to confirm the vagina as the source of bleeding. If bleeding is heavy, your physician may sometimes suggest bed rest. Avoid aspirin, as it thins the blood and prolongs the bleeding. The first line of medical treatment for dysfunctional uterine bleeding is often the prescription of hormones, such as birth control pills or progesterone, to lessen the bleeding. If this is ineffective, other causes for the bleeding will be investigated. In some cases, excessive bleeding caused by fibroid or other tumors will require surgical correction.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
Abnormal bleeding in a pregnant woman or a woman who could potentially be pregnant should be reported to a doctor immediately. Heavy bleeding or excessive clotting noted by an increase in the use of feminine products or frequent accidents should be reported to your regular OB/GYN, who might recommend hormone therapy and check your blood for anemia. Bleeding in excess of 1-2 soaked pads per hour must be evaluated immediately.
Treatment for Vaginal Bleeding is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Vertigo
Vertigo is more than dizziness; it’s the feeling that you or the world around you is moving. Subjective vertigo means you feel like you’re moving when you’re perfectly still. Objective vertigo refers to the feeling that your surroundings are in motion. Causes are usually related to sudden movements of the head or inflammation in the inner ear.
Symptoms
- Sensation of movement
- Ringing in the ears
- Difficulty speaking, seeing or walking
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abnormal sweating
- Abnormal eye movements or double vision
Who is at risk?
Anyone might experience vertigo. It’s commonly caused by an inner ear infection or collection of fluid in the middle ear, so watch patients with ear, nose, or throat congestion. Allergies are even known to trigger symptoms. While vertigo is most often a benign problem, it can rarely be caused by more severe medical conditions.
Treatment
Always consult a physician before treating vertigo symptoms at home. A physician might prescribe oral, patch, or IV medication based on the severity and source of your symptoms. For a bacterial infection, the solution is usually a round of antibiotics.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor for any signs of vertigo. Most cases are harmless, but only a doctor can rule out a life-threatening cause for symptoms.
Treatment for Vertigo is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Pertussis, which is more commonly called Whooping Cough, is an infection of the respiratory system. The disease causes severe coughing spells, during which it becomes difficult to catch one’s breath. It gets its name from the “whoop” sound made when a person inhales forcefully during these spells.
Whooping cough is extremely contagious, but has not been a significant problem in the last few decades because of available vaccine. Just recently, however, it has seen a resurgence throughout the United States. The CDC states that in 2008, 13,000 cases were reported which resulted in 18 deaths. California is currently experiencing a rising number of pertussis cases, and the disease is expected to spread to many other U.S. states.
Symptoms
Initial symptoms mirror those of the common cold: runny nose, sneezing, mild cough, and a low-grade fever. After 1-2 weeks, the cough becomes much more severe. Violent coughing spells can last for more than a minute, and lead to the whooping sound when trying to breathe in. The cough can also cause vomiting.
Who is at risk?
- Anyone who has not been vaccinated, or those whose vaccinations are out of date
- Adults and adolescents are more likely to get the disease, as the effectiveness of past vaccine fades
- Infants and children are at the greatest risk of developing complications
Treatment
The best way to treat whooping cough is to prevent it. Make sure you and your loved ones are up to date with vaccinations, specifically the DTaP vaccine for infants and children, and the Tdap booster for adolescents and adults. The CDC recommends that adolescents and adults from 19 to 64 years of age be revaccinated with the Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis) booster, even if they were completely vaccinated as children.
Once someone comes down with the disease, antibiotics can be used to shorten the infectious period and potentially to reduce the severity of the symptoms. In the most severe cases, especially in children, hospitalization may be required.
Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?
- When you or your child develops a cold that includes a prolonged or severe cough
- If someone in your household, or someone you have been in close contact with, gets the disease
- Coughing spells that make you turn red or purple, that are followed by vomiting, and/or are accompanied by a whooping sound
Treatment for Whooping Cough is available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
X-Ray
An x-ray is a test that allows healthcare providers to look at structures under the skin such as your bones and lungs. Radiation passes through your body and is absorbed differently on a metal plate or piece of film depending on the density of the organ or structure. Your bones and teeth contain calcium and are most dense so they appear white on the x-ray film or digital picture. Your lungs, on the other hand, mostly contain air so they appear almost black. Tissues such as your heart and other organs will be a shade of grey in between.
What Are X-rays Used For?
X-rays are used by physicians and other healthcare providers to sneak a peak inside your body. They may be ordered to evaluate a bone for fracture, your lungs for pneumonia, your abdomen for abnormal gas patterns, or your teeth for deterioration. X-rays are good for evaluating dense objects such as bones and teeth but are of little utility when it comes to imaging of the softer tissues of the body. This is why your provider may order a CT scan or MRI to help arrive at a diagnosis.
Are X-rays Harmful?
The amount of radiation required to perform an x-ray is fairly small and will not typically pose a long term hazard. Radiation may be harmful in pregancy, so it is strongly advised that if the possibility of pregnancy exists, that you inform the radiology staff so that a pregnancy test can be performed or your abdomen shielded with lead for the test. They will commonly prompt female patients of child-bearing years for this information.
X-Rays are available now at Omni-Med in Florham Park, NJ.
