Health and wellness

Keeping our community informed, with guidance on how to get healthy and live well.

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Woman blowing nose during allergy season

How CityMD can help this allergy season.

If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from seasonal allergies, you may currently be experiencing a flare-up in symptoms. Summer is almost here, but allergy season is still in full swing in New York City and beyond.

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Person with poison ivy rash itching their arm

Poison ivy rash and children: prevention and management tips.

With the warmer weather, your kids probably spend more time outdoors, which is great for their health and happiness. But with all the fun and adventure comes the risk of running into some not-so-friendly plants, like poison ivy, oak, and sumac.

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Person applying cream for athlete’s foot

How to get rid of athlete's foot: tips and tricks from CityMD.

Are you dealing with the uncomfortable symptoms of athlete's foot? You're not alone. Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that can be treated successfully with proper care. 

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Bumble bee on pink flower

How to treat a bee sting: quick relief and care tips.

As the sunny days of summer draw near, so does the buzzing sound of bees. But an unexpected encounter can sometimes lead to a painful bee sting. Unless you are allergic, bee stings are usually nothing to worry about.

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Person with recurring yeast infection covering themself

How long does a yeast infection last? Advice and treatment options.

If you've ever experienced the discomfort and itching associated with a yeast infection, you're not alone. These common fungal infections can affect anyone, regardless of gender or age.

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CityMD doctor administering travel vaccine

Travel vaccines: what you need to know before your next trip.

Are you planning a trip abroad anytime soon? Whether it's for work or pleasure, traveling to a new destination can be an exciting experience. But before you pack your bags it's essential to take steps to ensure your health and safety.

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CityMD doctor helping a patient with a joint dislocation

Out of place: treating a joint dislocation.

Have you ever experienced a sudden pop or snap in your joint followed by intense pain? If so, you may have suffered from a joint dislocation. This common injury can happen to anyone, from athletes to those with more sedentary lifestyles.

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CityMD urgent care doctor performing earwax removal on patient

Earwax removal explained.

While earwax may not be a topic we often think about, it’s worth understanding the importance of good ear hygiene and how to remove excess earwax safely.

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CityMD doctor examining patient’s corneal abrasion

Corneal abrasion: how to prevent eye damage.

Have you ever experienced that awful feeling of having something stuck in your eye, accompanied by pain and discomfort? It might be a corneal abrasion.

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Person using an EpiPen® to prevent anaphylaxis

What is anaphylaxis? How to handle severe allergic reactions.

You’re feeling a little off after having something to eat. You notice some swelling or tingling in your lips. A few minutes later you start to feel itchy and see a rash spreading on your skin. You may be experiencing a severe life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. 

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Woman experiencing morning sickness symptoms

What does morning sickness feel like? Signs and symptoms.

You or someone you know might be in the early stages of pregnancy and wondering about morning sickness. Most pregnant women experience morning sickness, but the experience varies greatly from person to person. 

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CityMD doctor reading urgent care X-ray results

How an urgent care X-ray makes all the difference.

You may wonder whether X-ray machines are available at your local urgent care. It's a valid question, especially if you’re dealing with an acute illness or a possible broken bone.

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Person receiving burn treatment at CityMD

Soothing the pain: what to put on a burn.

Burns are a common household injury with various causes, such as hot liquids, steam, fire, or prolonged sun exposure. Burn severity can range from minor to life-threatening, making it essential to know how to care for one properly.

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Doctor speaking to a patient about abscess

What is an abscess? Signs, symptoms, and treatment.

An abscess is a buildup of pus that forms in a specific area of the body. Infections, injuries, and underlying medical conditions can cause abscesses. They can occur anywhere and may cause pain, swelling, redness, and fever.

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Woman helping a man with orthopedic injury outside

What to do right after an injury.

Injuries often present the same way at first — with pain, swelling, limited range of motion, and bruising. So how can you tell if you just need to prop up your limb with some ice or take a trip to the local urgent care?

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Medical professional monitoring a patient's blood pressure for signs of hypotension

Passing out and feeling weak? The many causes of low blood pressure.

Feeling weak, dizzy, tired, or lethargic? You may have low blood pressure, also known as hypotension. A low reading means your blood pressure has fallen below 90/60 mmHg.

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Young couple dining outdoors

Sexually transmitted infections: how CityMD can help.

Being diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or thinking that you may have been exposed to one, can be stressful. You may feel fine or have active symptoms.

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Girl clutching her sprained ankle while exercising

Here's how to treat a sprained ankle.

Sprained ankles are a common injury that can happen to anyone, whether you're an athlete training for a race or just going about your day-to-day activities.

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CityMD urgent care doctor giving man an EKG test

What is an EKG test?

There's a very common medical test called an electrocardiogram (EKG). Medical professionals like CityMD urgent care doctors rely on electrocardiogram to evaluate the heart's electrical activity.

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CityMD urgent care doctor administering shingles vaccine to a patient

What to know about the shingles vaccine.

Are you considering getting the shingles vaccine? At CityMD we are here to help you understand what the shingles vaccine is all about and what you should know before getting it.

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Person clutching his side from experiencing severe liver pain

Have upper abdominal or liver pain? Here's what it could be.

Today, we want to discuss a topic that is often overlooked — upper abdominal pain, sometimes referred to as “liver pain” and its potential causes.

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CityMD urgent care doctor holding suture scissors for when patients need stitches

When do you need stitches? Wound care at CityMD.

Accidents can happen at any time. When they do, you need to know how to take care of yourself. Sometimes, injuries may require more than a bandage and some antiseptic.

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Man with workplace injury from slip and fall

Safety is key: how to prevent slips, trips, and falls.

Slips, trips, and falls are some of the most common accidents people experience. Whether you encounter a slippery surface or lose your balance for a moment, accidents can happen to anyone at any time.

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CityMD doctor testing young girl with a concussion

What to do if you have a concussion: four helpful tips.

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that can happen to anyone, whether you're an athlete or not. They occur when your head experiences a sudden jolt or blow, causing your brain to move rapidly back and forth inside your skull. 

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Woman having an asthma attack

Am I having an asthma attack? Signs and symptoms.

If you or someone you know has ever experienced an asthma attack, you know how scary and overwhelming it can be. While many people with asthma can manage their symptoms effectively with medication and lifestyle changes, there may be times when an asthma attack strikes, and it can feel like you're struggling to catch your breath.

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Child smiling with a New York urgent care pediatrician

What is a pediatrician? Offering support and care.

For a parent or caregiver, your child's health and well-being are your number one priority. And regular visits to the pediatrician are an important way to ensure your child’s overall health and wellness.

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Man receiving full vaccination from CityMD urgent care doctor

Are you fully vaccinated? Learn more about boosters.

With new variants and different vaccines available, information about what it means to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can get confusing. Let’s break down what it means to be fully vaccinated and how CityMD can help you with testing and treatment for COVID-19.

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Couple hugging after urgent care STD testing at CityMD

Do I have an STD? Five signs of STDs.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or infections (STIs) have been on the rise for several years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Cases of syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea all increased in the U.S. even throughout the pandemic.

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New York urgent care provider explaining drug testing for employment

Drug test for employment: fast drug tests at CityMD.

Drug screenings provide critical information about potential and current hires for employers. But what is the easiest way to set up a drug test for employment purposes? And where can you get employee drug screenings near you?

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Common UTI treatments resting on paper that display urinary tract infection definition

How does UTI testing work?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue that affects millions of people each year, particularly women. If left untreated, a UTI can lead to more serious complications; that’s why UTI testing is so important.

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Man experiencing spring allergies blowing nose

Tips to keep spring allergies at bay.

Sneeze, cough, scratch — repeat. If you’re one of the 25 million adults and children in the U.S. who suffer from seasonal allergies, the biggest signs of spring may not be budding flowers and green trees. But rather, pesky symptoms like a runny nose and watery eyes can affect your daily life.

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Woman on the couch feeling severe stomach pain symptoms

What does your stomach pain mean?

Most of us have experienced a garden variety stomachache — either from overeating, gas, or a meal that just didn’t sit quite right. This type of belly pain usually passes with time, rest, or the help of an over-the-counter digestive aid.

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Diagnosis of a urinary tract infection

Gotta go, again? Signs, symptoms, treatment, and tips for UTIs

You know that uncomfortable feeling — pain, burning, and frequently or urgently needing to urinate. But when you finally go, very little urine comes out. These are all common symptoms of bladder and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

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Woman trying to stop sneezing from seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergies: how to stop sneezing.

Sneezing is a normal process that allows your body to clear its nasal passageways and get rid of germs. But sneezing can also be irritating, especially when it doesn’t seem to let up.

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Person meeting with urgent care doctor in virtual care visit at CityMD

Virtual care: how to meet with a doctor online.

Medical emergencies don't wait for a convenient time to strike. And sometimes you simply can’t get to the doctor’s office, or it isn’t a good time to come in.

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New York urgent care doctor dressing a woman's itchy wounds

Why do wounds itch? How the body heals.

Wounds are common in life. They can be painful and annoying to deal with, but wounds are a normal part of life and generally heal on their own with proper care and attention.

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Three skiers walking through the wilderness with gear to prevent frostbite

Preventing and treating frostbite and frostnip.

Hitting the ski slopes, roasting marshmallows, and going for a wintery stroll. There are many highlights of winter, but the season can also bring plunging temperatures and outdoor environments that can lead to frostnip and frostbite.

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Child coughing from croup

All about croup: symptoms and treatments.

Coughing is a common symptom when kids get sick. But there’s one very distinct, barking cough that alarms parents when they hear it — and that seal-like sound often signals an infection called croup.

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Person with arrhythmia gripping their chest in pain

Could I have an arrhythmia? What to know and how to spot them.

Do you frequently feel your heart race or slow down for no apparent reason? If you’re shrugging your shoulders, you may have an arrhythmia, or an irregular heartbeat.

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Young couple on a valentine's date

Love is life’s best medicine.

A person that has love in their life — whether it be romantic or through family and friendship — is generally happier, healthier, and may even live longer.

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Man using an inhaler for asthma symptoms in winter

Why asthma gets worse in the wintertime.

 

Most asthma sufferers know exactly what their triggers are — environmental allergies, illness, or changes in temperature. And many report their symptoms ramp up during the winter months.

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Woman with sore throat symptoms holding a glass of water

Got a sore throat? How to get relief and fast.

We all know that feeling of waking up with a painful tickle in our throats. Maybe you slept with your mouth open, or you went to a concert the night before and sang too loud. But usually, a sore throat, also known as pharyngitis, means something more.

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Woman watching indoor exercise tips on tv for exercise in winter

Don't stay still this winter: ways to stay active in the city.

We all get a little complacent in the winter months. The weather is cold and wet — and it isn’t very appealing to be outside for a long period of time. It is not surprising that our desire to exercise takes a plunge.

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Chin tuck stretch for good posture

Wellness snapshot: chin tuck stretch for good posture.

Our physical therapists share the best one-minute stretches you can do to give your back, neck, and arms some relief.

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Mother pushing child in cart in front of empty shelves due to nationwide Tylenol and Motrin shortage

What parents need to know about the Tylenol and Motrin shortage.

This cold and flu season has been challenging for parents and pediatricians alike. It seems like everyone has been sick at some point — and our little ones have been hit particularly hard.

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Man and woman walking practicing winter safety tips

Put health and safety first this winter.

The coldest season of the year evokes images of crackling fireplaces and holiday cheer. But the winter also brings colder temperatures, icy sidewalks, an uptick in viral illnesses.

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X-ray of a hairline fracture in a person's hand

Broken bone lingo explained.

Most of us will end up breaking two bones in our lifetime. If you have ever had an X-ray at your local urgent care or orthopedists’ office, you may have heard the medical terms.

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Family sick with flu

Why is everyone getting sick? The immunity gap explained.

This fall, it seems like everyone has been laid up with something. Physicians at CityMD urgent care, like Pamela Arsove, MD, say cases of RSV, the flu, the common cold, and COVID-19 are all coinciding.

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Man scratching stress rash on arm

Stress rash: five things to know about stress rash.

You’ve had a rough day. Your to-do list is getting longer by the minute. And to make matters worse, your skin suddenly looks how you feel — stressed! But is it a stress rash or something else?

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Hands with hearts

Being kind is good for your health.

It feels good to be kind. But did you know practicing an act of kindness a day can make you healthier? 

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Two people playing squash

Don't overdo it: how to avoid overuse injuries.

Repetition can be a good thing. But there also are times when doing too much of something can backfire.

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Woman undergoing vampire facial treatment

“Vampire Facials” – A new cosmetic enhancement.

Looking for a fresh way to rejuvenate your skin? Microneedling with PRP also known as a “Vampire Facial” may sound like a scary way to dress up on Halloween, but it is actually a cosmetic treatment.

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Female and baby

Why is RSV on the rise? What parents should know.

RSV, a common respiratory illness that is the leading cause of hospitalization among infants, has been on the rise in the U.S. for several months now. 

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PT Video Still No Button

Wellness snapshot: the best stretch for back pain.

Your best posture is your next posture. Our physical therapists share the best one-minute stretches you can do to give your back, neck, and arms some relief.

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Woman smiling in the mirror examining her face for skin tags

What are skin tags? Q&A with a dermatologist.

Have you ever taken off a piece of jewelry or clothing and noticed what looks like an extra piece of skin? If your answer is yes, do not worry. You probably have a harmless growth known as a skin tag.

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Man feeling swollen lymph nodes under his jaw

Swollen lymph nodes: what they mean for better or worse.

You might remember those days when you complained of a sore throat, and your mom would feel your neck. She would say something about your glands being swollen, or not swollen, and then decide if you were sick.

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Young man stretching at computer desk after improving spine health

10 ways to keep your spine happy.

Taking proper care of your spine lowers your risk of developing debilitating back or neck pain. Here are 10 simple tips to help keep your spine healthy.

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Need a flu shot?

Flu shot 101: all your questions answered.

Now is the perfect time to schedule a trip to CityMD and get caught up on your vaccines. Flu season is just around the corner.

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Cold vs. Flu

Cold vs. flu.

It's not always easy to tell the difference between a case of the flu and the common cold based on the symptoms alone. Learn about what your symptoms could mean and how CityMD can help.

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Common Illnesses

Prevent these winter illnesses in children.

It's that time of year again—the leaves are falling, and the kids are beginning to cough and sniffle. Unfortunately, the return to school brings a greater risk of contracting the most common winter illnesses. Here's what to be on the lookout for.

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Sinus Infection

Do I have a sinus infection?

A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is inflammation of the sinuses caused by infection. Learn more about this condition, when see a doctor, and how to get rid of a sinus infection.

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UTI

Do I have a UTI?

Learn how to identify the first signs of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) and when to seek treatment.

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Heartburn Relief

Essential steps to find heartburn relief.

Heartburn, or acid reflux, is a burning pain or pressure in the chest and the sensation of gastric contents refluxing into the mouth. Learn more about how to spot the symptoms, treat and prevent heartburn.

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Stitches, Glue and Staples

Stitches, medical glue or staples?

When you get a cut that requires medical attention, there are a few methods our team will consider when determining the best way for the wound to heal.

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Strep or sore throat

Strep throat vs sore throat.

Throat pain that comes on suddenly usually requires a strep throat test to identify if your sore throat is more than just a viral infection.

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Donating Blood

The benefits of donating blood.

Blood donations are essential to maintaining a vital supply of blood, helping to save the lives of surgical patients, trauma victims, cancer patients, and individuals suffering from chronic illness.

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Tips to prevent flu

Tips to prevent the flu.

How to stay healthy and reduce your risk of catching the flu this season.

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STD and HIV symptoms

Understanding STD and HIV symptoms.

Stay informed about the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases, and learn about testing services that can help diagnose these infections.

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Mono

What is mono?

Learn more about how mononucleosis (mono) spreads, and how to spot symptoms of this contagious disease.

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Dry January

Why dry January has its drawbacks.

You’ve probably heard someone talk about Dry January or going alcohol-free for one month. Maybe you’ve considered giving it a shot. While taking a break from booze is a good thing, Dry January comes with potential pitfalls.

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Good sleep

Why good sleep matters.

There's nothing quite like being well rested. You're happier, more alert, and more productive.

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Help in a pinch

Help in a pinch: when to use urgent care.

When you have an unexpected injury, feel unusual pain, or if you recognize the onset of cold or flu symptoms outside usual doctor’s office hours, one question often arises: Where should I go to get assessed?

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Immunizations

Facts about vaccines & immunization.

Get key facts and information about vaccines, including how they work and when you should get them.

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Pink eye

How to tell if you have pink eye.

Understand what causes this common eye condition, get tips on how to ease the symptoms, and prevent future infections.

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Sprains vs. Strains

Sprains vs. strains.

Sprains and strains are very common injuries that can occur from falling, twisting, lifting, or being involved in an accident. Learn more about the difference between these injuries, and how they’re treated.

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Having a heat wave: how to prevent heat-related illnesses.

You may have noticed this past June was the hottest month on record in many places throughout the country. These high temperatures are expected to continue – and perhaps even worsen – during the second half of the summer.

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COVID-19 care: what you need to know about the latest treatments.

As the contagious Omicron variants, BA.4 and BA.5, continue to spread across the globe, the number of positive cases and hospitalizations continues to rise. The good news is that there are more COVID-19 treatments available today than ever before. Physicians are finding that these medical therapies help to shorten both the course of the illness and the severity of symptoms.

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Sun safety: the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays.

Tom Morris knew it was time to call the doctor when he noticed an unusual growth on the top of his head. Any new skin growth or mole that changes in size or shape should be checked out right away. So, he made an appointment for a skin check with Hari Nadiminti, MD, a dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon at Summit Health.

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Summer isn’t always carefree: preventing pediatric sports injuries.

If your kids are in summer sports and training camps, you’ve probably spent many evenings cheering them on at games and tournaments. Unfortunately, you may also have experienced those gut-wrenching moments when they fall, collide, or overexert themselves and become injured. 

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Ovarian cancer: A grateful patient story and 5 tips for early detection.

The hardest thing about treating ovarian cancer is that the disease is rarely found in its early stages. Only one in every five patients are diagnosed before the cancer spreads to other areas of the body. 

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Primary care providers: the key to healthy aging.

If it’s been a while since you last saw your primary care physician (PCP), there is no time like the present. People who go to the doctor generally live longer and have fewer health problems. You may feel like you only need to check in when illness strikes, but building a relationship with a PCP can make a significant difference in your well-being, especially as you get older.

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Physical therapy for chronic pain: how it can help.

Chronic pain is a burden no one should live with. Yet more than 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. have an ailment or injury that causes them to feel pain almost every day. For many, the pain is debilitating enough to interfere with their daily activities or work life.

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Sexual health at every age: what you need to know.

Sexual health is about more than having safe sex. It’s taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, mentally, and socially — at any age and in every relationship.

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