American Academy of Family Physicians.
American Academy of Family Physicians.
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Thyroiditis
Learn about the types, symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment of thyroiditis, a name for several disorders that cause inflammation of… permanent but can be treated. Acute thyroiditis (suppurative thyroiditis) The cause is bacteria or infection. Symptoms include pain in the thyroid, mild illness, and those of…
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The Doctor Will See You In Person Now
Telemedicine lets you access medical care without leaving your home. But it isn’t the right choice for every visit with… My clinic still offers telemedicine visits as an option. These are especially helpful for patients who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19…
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Mind/Body Connection: How Emotions Affect Physical Health
People who have good emotional health are aware of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They cope well with stress and… or both. Recognizing how emotions affect physical health is key to improving both mental and physical well-being. Whether you're managing chronic illness or trying to…
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Preparing Older Children to Make Medical Decisions for Themselves
Children should be able to participate in their health care, even from a young age. This will help them make… should talk to the child using language that is easy for the child to understand. The doctor should tell them about any illness and treatment…
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From a Family Doctor: Adults Need Vaccines, Too
up protection against certain diseases. Vaccines can help protect you from getting seriously ill and can be important if you have any chronic health conditions that increase your risk for serious complications. Curious about what vaccines you may need? Review the CDC’s Immunization Schedules…
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Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils that happens when they become infected by a virus or bacteria. It is… A sore throat that lasts more than two days (with or without a fever or stomach pain) A fever above 103°F Extreme illness, fatigue, or…
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Influenza (Flu)
Our influenza health hub offers important information and resources to help you understand and manage your condition… be hospitalized when they have the flu, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Read Article Flu Risks and Chronic Conditions Chronic health conditions such…
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Colds and the Flu
Learn about the symptoms of and treatments for colds and the flu… or ear drainage Difficulty waking up Irritability Seizures Symptoms that improve and then return with a fever or worse cough Worsening of chronic medical conditions (such as diabetes or heart disease) Vomiting or…
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Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic red blood cell disorder… What is sickle cell disease? Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic condition you have at birth. It runs in families and is more common in Blacks or African Americans. SCD refers to…
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Pneumocystis Pneumonia (PCP)
Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is caused by a fungus. People whose immune systems are weak due to an HIV infection or… What is pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)? Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a kind of pneumonia caused by a fungus called Pneumocystis jirovecior, or P. jiroveci. It used to be called Pneumocystis…
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Health Insurance: Understanding What It Covers
Health insurance plans differ in terms of what they cover. All plans offered by the federal marketplace, however, must cover… Your health insurance policy is an agreement between you and your insurance company. The policy lists a package of medical benefits such as tests, drugs,…
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Teen Suicide
Teen suicide is when a teenager ends their own life. It can be impulsive or planned. However, not all suicide… Editor’s note: If you or a loved one is having suicidal thoughts, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Teen suicide is when…
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Flu Myths
The flu is something to take seriously. But it’s important to sort out fact from fiction to stay healthy… The flu, or influenza, is a viral infection. It occurs in your respiratory (breathing) area and affects your throat, lungs, and nose. There are a…
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Hives | Symptoms and Treatment
Hives (urticaria) are bumps or patches on the surface of your skin. They can be red, itchy, and swollen and… What are hives? Hives are a skin condition. They are raised, red bumps on your skin. They can be itchy. Hives appear on the…
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Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a bleeding disorder. When you have ITP, your immune system destroys the platelets in your… What is idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)? Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a bleeding disorder. “Idiopathic” means the cause of the condition is unknown. “Thrombocytopenic”…
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Blood Clots
Blood clots are clumps of blood that form inside your body and can be harmful or even deadly if they… What are blood clots? Blood clots are differently sized clumps of blood that have formed inside your body. Clotting is important to prevent excessive bleeding…
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COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions
Find out the answers to the most commonly asked questions for the new COVID-19 vaccine… What is an mRNA vaccine and how does it work? Most vaccines (or immunizations) work by injecting a weakened form of a disease germ into your body. This is usually done…
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Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. How serious it is depends on what caused the pneumonia, your age, and… What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. It causes the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs to get inflamed (irritated and…
