Healthcare / Rochester Medical Group

unnamed.png
08/Feb/2023

Degenerative joint disease, also known as arthritis, affects an estimated 47 million Americans across all age and racial groups. Though certain types of degenerative joint disease tend to afflict more mature patients, it is not restricted to the elderly — anyone of any age can be affected. It’s important for everyone to understand what degenerative joint disease is, what the risks are, and what treatments are available. 

What is Degenerative Joint Disease? 

Degenerative joint disease is a term used to describe one or more of over 100 chronic diseases that affect joints, muscles, and connective tissues. The most common type of degenerative joint disease is osteoarthritis, though other types include rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Symptoms may include pain and stiffness in the joints, difficulty moving the affected area(s), swelling in the joints, redness around the affected area(s), decreased range of motion in the affected area(s), tenderness or warmth in the affected area(s). 

Risks & Treatments 

Degenerative joint disease can be caused by a variety of factors including age, genetics, obesity, a physical trauma (such as from an injury or accident), and certain medical conditions (such as diabetes). Treatment plans vary on a case-by-case basis depending on factors such as severity and cause. Common treatments may include lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly or losing weight; medications such as ibuprofen; physical therapy; dietary changes; supplements; injections; surgery; or a combination of these options. 

It’s important that people with degenerative joint disease take steps to limit their risk factors wherever possible. This might mean regular exercise (particularly exercises designed specifically for strengthening the joints); healthy eating habits that focus on reducing inflammation; avoiding activities that strain or overexert your joints; maintaining an ideal body weight; wearing supportive shoes when possible; using assistive devices such as canes when necessary; elevating your legs when possible; avoiding smoking/tobacco products/secondhand smoke exposure; managing stress levels with relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.  

 

No one should have to live with degenerative joint disease without relief — but understanding how it works and how best to treat it can be challenging. To learn more about this condition and how Rochester Medical Group can help you manage it effectively through treatment plans tailored to your needs, reach out today for information about our services! With our team’s professional expertise and personalized patient care approach, we’ll work together towards finding relief from pain associated with this condition so you can live life more fully again soon. 


07/Nov/2022

RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a common virus that affects the lungs and breathing passages. It’s similar to the common cold, but can be more severe, especially in infants and young children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people with RSV will have a mild illness, but some people may develop more serious problems such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis.

What are the symptoms of RSV?

  • The symptoms of RSV are similar to the common cold, and can include:
  • Fever 
  • Cough 
  • Sore throat 
  • Runny nose 
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing 
  • In severe cases, RSV can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis, which is inflammation of the small airways in the lungs. Infants and young children are at a higher risk for these complications. 

 

Symptoms of pneumonia or bronchiolitis can include: 

  • Fast or difficult breathing 
  • Blueness around the mouth or fingernails 
  • Decreased appetite 
  • Fatigue 

 

When should I see a doctor?

  • If your child has any of the following symptoms, you should contact their doctor right away: 
  • Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit 
  • Difficulty eating or drinking fluids 
  • Increased irritability or lethargy 

 

What is the treatment for RSV?

There is no specific treatment for RSV. Most people will recover on their own within 1 to 2 weeks. However, some people may need hospitalization for supportive care, such as oxygen therapy or fluids through an IV. If your child has a more severe case of RSV, they may need to be hospitalized. The staff at Rochester Medical Group is here to answer any questions you may have about RSV and its treatment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

 


02/Aug/2022

As the new school year starts, parents are starting to worry about all of the germs their kids will be exposed to. From shared textbooks and backpacks to playgrounds and cafeterias, kids can easily catch a cold or the flu if they’re not careful. Here are 10 ways to help keep your kids safe from germs this school year!

  1. Wash their hands often – This is one of the most important things you can do to help prevent the spread of germs. Teach your kids to wash their hands after they use the restroom before they eat, and when they come home from school. Keep them away from sick people – If someone in your family is sick, try to keep your kids away from them as much as possible. If they have to be around them, make sure they wash their hands often.
  2. Disinfect shared surfaces – Shared surfaces like doorknobs, countertops and keyboards can harbor germs. Wipe them down with a disinfecting wipe daily. Don’t share food or drinks – This  is a tough one for kids, but it’s important to teach them not to share food or drinks with their friends. It’s easy to transfer germs this way.
  3. Cover coughs and sneezes – This is another important one. Teach your kids to cover their mouth and nose when they sneeze or cough, preferably with a tissue. If they don’t have a tissue, have them cough or sneeze into their elbow.
  4. Stay home when sick – This is probably the most important one. If your child is sick, keep them home from school. Not only will this help prevent the spread of germs, but it will also give them time to rest and get better.
  5. Bring a water bottle to school  – This is a good way to make sure your child is staying hydrated and drinking enough water throughout the day. It will also help them avoid sugary drinks that can weaken their immune system.
  6. Eat healthy foods – A healthy diet is important for a strong immune system. Make sure your child is eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  7. Get the flu shot and all scheduled immunizations before school starts  – This is a great way to help prevent your child from getting sick in the first place.
  8. Make sure your kid is getting plenty of sleep,   – A good night’s sleep is important for a strong immune system. Most kids need at least eight hours of sleep per night.
  9. Encourage them to play outside  – Playing outside is a great way for kids to get fresh air and exercise. It also helps them build up their immunity to germs.
  10. Teach your child to give enough personal space to others – This is important for preventing the spread of germs, especially when someone is sick.

While the new school year is an exciting time, it’s also easy to spread germs and become sick.

By following these tips, you can help keep your kids safe from germs this school year!   Rochester Medical Group, we care about the health of your family! We are doing what we can to make healthcare a little easier for people with a busy schedule. Our physicians are quickly able to diagnose and treat common illnesses and minor injuries to help you get better, faster. We are here to meet the urgent medical care needs of Rochester Hills, Rochester, Troy, and the surrounding communities. Call us today at (248) 844-6000.


Rochester-Medical-Group.png
04/Jun/2022

Telehealth is quickly becoming an important part of the medical community. This is because it offers a number of advantages over traditional in-office visits. Patients can get the care they need from the comfort of their own homes, and doctors can treat more patients thanks to the technology. In this blog post, we will discuss the rise of telehealth and why it’s such an important tool for doctors and patients alike! Here are some of the many advantages to look for a medical practice that offers telehealth. 

One of the main advantages of telehealth is that it offers patients more flexibility. They can schedule appointments around their work or school schedules, and they don’t have to take time off to travel to and from the doctor’s office. Telehealth also allows patients to get care from anywhere in the world, which is especially important for those who live in rural areas. 

Another advantage of telehealth is that it can save both patients and doctor’s time. Doctors can see more patients in a day thanks to the technology, and patients don’t have to waste time traveling to and from appointments. In addition, many telehealth appointments can be done through video conferencing, which means that there is no need to wait in a waiting room. 

Telehealth is also more convenient for both patients and doctors. Patients don’t have to take time off work or school to go to appointments, and they can get care from the comfort of their own homes, especially when they are not feeling well. 

The rise of telehealth is changing the way that medical practices operate. It’s an important tool for both patients and doctors, and it offers a number of advantages over traditional in-office visits. If you’re looking for a new medical practice, be sure to look for one that offers telehealth services. 

 Rochester Medical Group, we care about the health of your family! We are doing what we can to make healthcare a little easier for people with busy schedules. Our physicians are quickly able to diagnose and treat common illnesses and minor injuries to help you get better, faster. We are here to meet the urgent medical care needs of Rochester Hills, Rochester, Troy, and the surrounding communities. Call us today at (248) 844-6000. 


parkinsons-disease.png
02/Apr/2022

Did you know that April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month? This month is dedicated to raising awareness about this debilitating neurological disease. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about Parkinson’s Disease. We will cover the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available for those who are affected by it.

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that affects the motor system. The main symptom of Parkinson’s disease is tremor, or shaking, which can affect any part of the body. Other common symptoms include rigidity, slowness of movement, and difficulty with balance.

The cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but there are treatments available that can help to improve the symptoms.

Some of the treatments of Parkinson’s disease include :

  • Medications: There are a number of different medications that can be used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

 

  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be an option to help improve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

 

  • Therapy: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can all help to improve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

 

If you or someone you know is affected by Parkinson’s disease, there are many resources available to help. The Parkinson’s Foundation is a great resource for information and support. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it is important to seek out the best possible treatment. There are many different options available, and the best course of treatment will vary from person to person. If you have any questions about Parkinson’s disease, be sure to speak with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional. Rochester Medical Group, we care about the health of your family! We are doing what we can to make healthcare a little easier for people with a busy schedule. Our physicians are quickly able to diagnose and treat common illnesses and minor injuries to help you get better, faster. We are here to meet the urgent medical care needs of Rochester Hills, Rochester, Troy, and the surrounding communities. Call us today at (248) 844-6000. 


Rochester-Medical-Group-Jan-2022.png
05/Jan/2022

Every expecting parent dreams of the day when their baby will finally be born. Holding them in your arms after nine long months and counting all the perfect fingers and toes are all milestones that are anticipated and a rite of passage as a new parent. Birth defects are not something that parents-to-be often allow themselves to think about, but it does happen, and being aware of the risks is important. 

 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognizes January as National Birth Defects Awareness Month. This is a time to raise awareness about birth defects and highlight efforts to improve the health of people living with these conditions across their lifespan. Here are steps you can take to get ready for pregnancy, stay healthy during pregnancy, and give your baby a healthy start in life:

 

  • Get 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day. Folic acid is a B vitamin. If a woman has enough folic acid in her body at least 1 month before and during pregnancy, it can help prevent major birth defects of the developing baby’s brain and spine (anencephaly and spina bifida). Women can get folic acid from fortified foods or supplements, or a combination of the two, in addition to a varied diet rich in folate. Learn more about folic acid.
  • Prevent infections. Some infections that a woman might get during pregnancy can be harmful to the developing baby and can even cause birth defects. Check out our 10 tips for preventing infections before and during pregnancy.
  • Pregnant and recently pregnant women are more likely to get severely ill with COVID-19 compared with nonpregnant women. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant now, or might become pregnant in the future. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy can protect you from severe illness. If you have questions about getting vaccinated, a conversation with your healthcare provider might be helpful, but is not required before vaccination.
  • See a healthcare professional regularly. Be sure to see a doctor when planning a pregnancy and start prenatal care as soon as possible. It is important to see your physician throughout your pregnancy. Keeping all prenatal care appointments, even telehealth appointments, should be a priority.
  • Talk to a healthcare provider about taking any medications. Certain medications can cause serious birth defects when taken during pregnancy. If a woman is pregnant or planning a pregnancy, she should first talk with her healthcare provider before stopping or starting any medications.
  • Talk to a healthcare provider about vaccinations (shots). Most vaccines are safe during pregnancy and some, such as the flu vaccine and Tdap (adult tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis vaccine), are specifically recommended during pregnancy. Learn about vaccinations during pregnancy and learn more about COVID-19 vaccines while pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Keep diabetes under control. Unmanaged diabetes can increase the chance of birth defects and other problems during pregnancy. To manage your diabetes, see your health care provider as recommended before and during pregnancy. Also, monitor your blood sugar levels, follow a healthy eating plan developed with your healthcare provider or dietician, be physically active, and take insulin as directed. Learn more about how to manage type 1 or type 2 diabetes during pregnancy and gestational diabetes.
  • Avoid alcohol at any time during pregnancy. Alcohol in a woman’s bloodstream passes to the developing baby through the umbilical cord. Alcohol use during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, and a range of disabilities. There is no known safe amount of alcohol use during pregnancy or while trying to get pregnant. There is also no safe time during pregnancy to drink. All types of alcohol are equally harmful, including all wines and beer. Learn more about alcohol and pregnancy.
  • Avoid smoking cigarettes. The dangers of smoking during pregnancy include preterm birth, certain birth defects (cleft lip or cleft palate), and infant death. Quitting smoking before getting pregnant is best. For a woman who is already pregnant, quitting as early as possible can still help protect against some health problems for the baby, such as low birth weight. It’s never too late to quit smoking. Learn more about smoking during pregnancy.
  • Avoid marijuana and other drugs. Marijuana use during pregnancy may be linked to lower birth weight in infants. There is no known safe level of marijuana use during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant or considering becoming pregnant should not use marijuana, even in states where marijuana is legal. Women using marijuana for medical reasons should speak with their healthcare provider about an alternative therapy that’s safer for pregnant women. Learn more about substance use during pregnancy.
  • Avoid overheating and treat fever promptly. During pregnancy, a woman should avoid overheating and treat fever promptly. Overheating can be caused by a fever or exposure to high temperatures (such as getting in a hot tub) that increases a woman’s core temperature. Overheating can increase a woman’s chance of having a baby with certain birth defects.

 At Rochester Medical Group, we care about the health of your family! We are doing what we can to make healthcare a little easier for people with a busy schedules. Our physicians are quickly able to diagnose and treat common illnesses and minor injuries to help you get better, faster. We are here to meet the urgent medical care needs of Rochester Hills, Rochester, Troy, and the surrounding communities. Call us today at (248) 844-6000

 

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/awareness-month/before-during-pregnancy.html




WE CARE, WE CAN





WE CARE, WE CAN




(248) 844-6000





Copyright by Rochester Medical Group 2022. All rights reserved.



Copyright © 2021 Rochester Medical Group | Developed by K2 Media, LLC