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Family medicine, also known as family practice, is the medical specialty in which physicians provide comprehensive, patient-centered primary health care to patients and their families. Physicians who practice family medicine can provide routine wellness care, such as physical exams or preventative care, to patients, regardless of age, gender, health or social status. They are also trained to know about many areas of medicine so that they are equipped to treat a wide variety of conditions. Family practices often staff a team of professionals that can help provide a continuity of care to patients, including nurse practitioners, physician assistants and others. There is often a great need for family doctors in medically underserved communities where patients have limited access to hospitals and specialists, such as rural areas or overseas. Members of these communities may suffer from low health literacy and more chronic conditions. Additionally, they may have access to fewer resources, underscoring the importance of compassionate, well-trained family physicians. The Purpose of Family Medicine The goal of the family medicine specialty is to provide continual, comprehensive care to an individual. Family medicine advocates believe that seeing many different specialists can sometimes result in fragmented care. But physicians who practice family medicine are trained in providing coordination of care and will refer patients to specialists when necessary. Frequently, they can also provide information about other community resources or health services. Some family doctors are even prepared to deliver babies or perform minor surgeries. Some of the services that family doctors offer may include: Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of chronic disease Immediate care for sudden and serious illness or injury Routine physical exams as well as sports clearance physical exams Vaccinations Preventative medicine Family physicians may also be trained in subspecialties, such as: Adolescent medicine Obstetric medicine Geriatric medicine Hospice and palliative medicine Sports medicine Sleep medicine Mental health The Benefits of Family Medicine Physicians who practice family medicine can treat patients regardless of age, gender, social status or health issue. Having a family doctor allows all members of the family, from infancy to an elderly age, to see the same doctor. This enables the doctor to develop a trusting and genuine personal relationship with the family, which can result in better care. A family doctor who cares for a family over a period of years may also be able to provide better guidance about how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, especially if the doctor knows the family's medical history firsthand or has seen patterns of health problems. By adapting lifestyle changes and new health habits, patients may be able to avoid costly medications or procedures that can later affect them. Generally, specialists treat conditions that already afflict a patient. Family doctors are equipped to treat chronic disease, ongoing health needs or other conditions and can help a patient develop a personalized, cost-effective treatment plan. The physicians most commonly found in underserved areas are those who practice family medicine. Family medicine practitioners can help create a health care system with an emphasis on equitable care that is accessible to and affordable for all patients.

Influenza, also known as the flu, is a contagious virus that appears seasonally. It spreads from person to person and can cause mild to severe illness. Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. For some people, the flu can lead to serious complications, and possibly even death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to 20 percent of Americans get the flu each year, and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized annually from flu-related complications. Flu season may start as early as October and usually subsides by May. Flu Vaccination Recommendations The influenza vaccine is recommended annually for adults and children age 6 months and older. In addition to protecting individuals, when healthy people get vaccinated, it helps to decrease the spread of flu and protect people who are at high risk of serious complications from the flu. Although most people recover from the flu without any complications, certain people have a higher risk for serious complications related to the flu. These may include: People age 65 and older Children age 2 and under People with compromised immune systems Pregnant women People with chronic medical conditions including diabetes, asthma, congestive heart failure, or lung disease are also at a greater risk for developing complications from the flu. Flu vaccinations are especially important for people in these high-risk categories. Types of Flu Vaccinations Traditional flu vaccines are created to protect against different flu viruses that scientific research has indicated will be most common during the upcoming season. The viruses in the flu vaccine change each year based on medical and scientific estimates about which types and strains of viruses will circulate in a given year. Influenza vaccinations are available as: The flu shot, an inactive vaccine that is administered through a needle The flu mist or nasal spray, a vaccine made with live, weakened flu viruses There may be certain restrictions associated with the different types of flu vaccinations, and patients should consult with their doctors prior to getting vaccinated. Risks of the Flu Vaccination A flu vaccination does not cause the flu and the risk of a flu shot causing serious complications is extremely low. However, as with any medication or vaccination, a severe allergic reaction, although extremely rare, is possible. Most people who get the influenza vaccine do not develop any problems. Possible side effects from a flu vaccine may include: Soreness or redness in the arm (from the flu shot) Low grade fever Mild body aches If experienced at all, these side-effects only last 1 to 2 days after the vaccination and are much less severe than an actual flu illness. Flu shots are generally available starting in September before the flu season begins. Protection provided by influenza vaccination can vary, based on health and age factors. While the flu shot may not always be completely effectively at preventing the flu, it may help to reduce the severity of the flu.

A routine physical exam is recommended at least once each year for patients of all ages. This complete medical examination allows the doctor to evaluate the patient's overall health and detect any illnesses or medical conditions in the early stages. Early detection of a disease may result in more effective treatment. An annual physical examination helps individuals to address any health issues and allows the doctor to give recommendations for healthy living and preventative care. The Physical Examination Prior to a physical examination, patients are encouraged to make a list of any questions or concerns that they may have regarding their health. Patients should discuss these concerns with the doctor during their appointment. The doctor performs a physical examination and takes routine measurements of weight, height and blood pressure. Various health screenings are also performed, depending on the age, health and family history of the patient. Additional tests may include: Blood tests Vision tests Hearing tests Osteoporosis screening Cardiovascular evaluation Breast exam Prostate screening Rectal exam Blood tests are commonly used to check cholesterol levels as well as to measure kidney, liver, thyroid, and heart function. The doctor will review the patient's immunization records and may administer any necessary vaccinations. An electrocardiogram or chest X-ray may be performed on patients with existing or suspected heart or lung problems. Physical Examination Results After a routine physical examination the doctor may recommend lifestyle modifications or prescribe medication, for any conditions that may have been diagnosed. Additional diagnostic tests may be recommended to further evaluate suspected conditions and create an appropriate treatment plan. By undergoing a routine physical examination and preventative screening tests, patients may increase their chances for living a longer, healthier life.

A sports physical exam, also known as a preparticipation physical examination (PPE), is a thorough medical examination that determines whether or not it is safe for an athlete to participate in a particular sport. The purpose of a PPE is to prevent as many injuries and medical emergencies on the court or playing field as possible Sports physicals are often required for children and teens before they are allowed to join a team sport and are usually repeated before each season. PPEs are required by most state governments as well. It is recommended that participants undergo sport physicals at least 6 weeks before the activity begins so there will be ample time if precautions or preparations are necessary. Medical History The first part of a sports physical involves the taking of a medical history. This is extremely important in terms of protecting the participant from possible danger during strenuous activity. The medical history includes information concerning: Illnesses of family members Chronic past disease conditions of the participant Present health conditions Prior hospitalizations or surgeries Allergies, especially severe ones Past musculoskeletal injuries or concussions History of chest pain, breathing difficulties History of dizziness or fainting Medications (prescribed, OTC or supplemental) This oral history is extremely important because awareness of possible underlying conditions, such as asthma or diabetes, may result in the physician prescribing particular treatments or recommending certain precautions, prior to exercise. It may also result in the physician prescribing medications for use if symptoms occur during exercise. In rare instances, the medical examination will make clear that participation in a particular sport is not recommended because of serious health risks. Physical Examination This examination is designed to detect any irregularities in the student's physical condition that may be warning signs of a medical disorder. By checking vital signs and evaluating general health, the doctor can be confident in approving sports participation. During a sports physical, the doctor checks and records: Height and weight Pulse and blood pressure Visual acuity and eye health Ear, nose and throat condition Heart, lungs and and bowel function Posture, muscular strength, flexibility During some physical examinations, an electrocardiogram (EKG) may be administered to further evaluate heart function or other diagnostic tests may be recommended.

Arthritis Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints. Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis caused by the wearing down of the cartilage that protects the bones of a joint. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition caused by an inflammation in the lining of the joints. Both forms of arthritis cause pain, tenderness, and swelling, and may result in loss of movement in the affected joints. Over time, joints affected by arthritis may become severely damaged. Arthritis occurs more frequently in older individuals, however it sometimes develops in athletes from overuse of a joint or after an injury. It can however, affect people of any age, including children. Stroke A stroke occurs when there is a reduction in the flow of blood to the brain. The lack of blood supply may be the result of a blockage in an artery or a burst blood vessel in the brain. A stroke deprives brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients, causing brain cells to die. A stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention by a medical professional. Prompt treatment can minimize damage to the brain and prevent further complications. Blood Thinners Blood thinners are medications used to prevent blood clots from forming in the circulatory system. If a blood clot forms in a vein or artery, it can travel to the heart, brain or lungs, causing, depending on the clot's location, a heart attack, stroke or pulmonary embolism. People who have irregular heart rhythms (atrial fibrillation) or congenital heart defects, or who have had coronary stents inserted or undergone heart-valve surgery, have a greater likelihood of getting blood clots. Dementia Dementia is not a single disorder, but rather a combination of age-related symptoms involving a loss of mental skills and deteriorating brain function. Dementia literally translates to "deprived of mind," and may be the result of several different underlying conditions, some of which are treatable and some of which are not. Patients with dementia gradually lose memory, communication skills, the ability to reason, and the facility to complete the tasks of everyday living. Diabetes Diabetes is the inability of the body to create or use insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas that enables sugar or glucose, to enter the cells. Diabetes is a serious, chronic metabolic disorder in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not respond to the insulin being produced. Heart Attack A heart attack occurs when the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that deliver blood to the heart, are suddenly blocked and cannot supply the heart with blood and oxygen. This blockage causes damage and gradual death of the heart muscle and often requires immediate treatment in order to save the person's life. Also known as a myocardial infarction, heart attacks most often occur as a result of coronary artery disease, a condition in which plaque builds up inside the arteries. Heart attacks are the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Low Blood Pressure Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is a goal that many people try to achieve in order to avoid the symptoms and complications of high blood pressure. Yet when blood pressure is too low, it can be a serious medical condition, potentially causing permanent damage to the heart and the brain. Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is a goal that many people try to achieve in order to avoid the symptoms and complications of high blood pressure. Yet when blood pressure is too low, it can be a serious medical condition, potentially causing permanent damage to the heart and the brain. High Blood Pressure High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, occurs when the pressure of the blood flowing against the artery walls is above the normal range. Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood the heart pumps and the blood flow resistance in the arteries. If the heart pumps more blood than normal, and the arteries are narrower than normal, the result is high blood pressure. Untreated high blood pressure can cause serious health problems, including heart attack, kidney failure and stroke. There are two types of high blood pressure: primary and secondary. Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones to become weak and brittle and at a high risk for fracture. In all individuals, bone breaks down over time, but is replaced with new bone tissue. As people age, bone loss occurs at a faster rate than new bone mass is created, resulting in osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is the result of increasing bone loss and is more common in older people, especially women.

Healthy bones are a necessity for a full and active lifestyle. Although we depend on our bones everyday for physical support and consider them strong and rigid structures, bones are actually living tissue, growing and changing on a regular basis. Along with the calcium that gives them their strength, bones are also made up of a collagen protein that gives them flexibility but also makes them susceptible to weakening and injury. Bone health is directly affected by lifestyle choices. Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle helps to maintain healthy bones and prevent osteoporosis. While some factors that increase the risk of bone loss cannot be altered, such as gender, age, body build, and the ingestion of life-sustaining medications, others can be managed to help protect bone integrity. In order to maintain bone health, the following steps are recommended: Regular exercise Proper nutrition Adequate calcium and vitamin D consumption Avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol use Avoidance, where possible, of certain medications Treat eating disorders promptly Anything that keeps the body from absorbing proper nutrition, like some types of bariatric surgery, anorexia or bulimia, or various gastrointestinal diseases, may result in weak bones because of lack of adequate calcium intake. Prolonged use of some corticosteroid medications, antidepressants, anticonvulsants medications and proton pump inhibitors may also be damaging to bone health. Low hormone levels in postmenopausal women, or in men with low testosterone can also result in diminished bone density. While some bone loss may be unavoidable during aging, taking appropriate steps to maintain bone health can keep such loss to a minimum.

Long-term care involves a comprehensive range of services and support for patients who need assistance caring for themselves. These services can be beneficial for a patient with a chronic illness, or serious injury or disability, who is unable to care for him- or herself for an extended period of time. Although long-term care is most frequently used by older adults, patients of any age may need long-term care, especially following serious injury or debilitating illness. Long-term care may be provided in a facility, such as a nursing home or rehabilitation center, or a patient's home. Reasons for Long-Term Care Patients often need long-term care when they have a progressive health condition or disability that leaves them weakened or incapacitated. The need for long-term care may also arise following a major injury or an acute health crisis. Several factors may increase the risk of needing long-term care. They include a person's age, with the risk of needing long-term care increasing with age; gender, with women at higher risk because they live an average of 5 to 10 years longer than men; lifestyle, with poor diet and lack of exercise typically increasing the risk; health status, with increased risk for those who have chronic health conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure); and family history, with those with close relatives who have chronic conditions at greater risk. Types of Long-Term Care The duration of long-term care varies, depending on the patient's specific needs. Some patients require long-term care for only a few weeks or months as they recover from sudden illness or injury. However, in many cases, long-term care is ongoing, as it is for a patient who has been significantly disabled from an acute event or progressive disease. Home Care Home care is a form of long-term care provided within a patient's home by family members, friends, volunteers and/or paid healthcare providers. It includes assistance with both healthcare and the patient's personal needs, such as food shopping/preparation, dressing, taking medications and housekeeping. Community Services Programs designed to supplement existing long-term care, community services are often useful for a patient with an illness such as Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease. A patient using community services usually attends an adult daycare program or participates in various activities, and may take part in a meal program. Assisted-Living Facilities An assisted-living facility provides a patient with 24-hour supervision, assistance and healthcare services in a setting similar to his or her own home. Transportation and laundry services, and help with eating, dressing and bathing, are also provided. Skilled Nursing Facilities Skilled nursing facilities offer more extensive care for a patient who can no longer receive care at home or in an assisted-living facility. Each type of long-term care has its own benefits. Home care enables a patient to receive care in the comfort of her or his own home, without having to pay for a nursing home. In some cases, home healthcare is covered by Medicare. Community services allow patients to remain active in a community, and can give the primary caregiver a respite. Assisted-living facilities provide long-term care assistance, while still enabling the patient to maintain a sense of independence. A patient in an assisted-living residence can also take part in various social and recreational activities. Skilled nursing facilities offer numerous benefits, including the continuous presence of medical personnel; rehabilitation services; meals; activities; and assistance with all daily-care needs.

Developing a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen are equally important. Many people only consider improving their diet and exercise routine when they want to lose weight. Diet and exercise, however, should not be forgotten once weight loss goals are achieved since they are important health factors even in individuals who are at an optimal weight. People become overweight when they consume more calories than they expend. To lose weight, the number of calories consumed needs to be reduced. This can be accomplished in many ways but a weight-loss diet usually necessitates avoiding or limiting high calorie foods, such as fatty foods and foods high in sugar, and limiting or avoiding alcoholic consumption. Portion size for high calorie foods should be reduced and the consumption of high fiber foods, such as fruits and vegetables, increased. Physical activity in the form of regular exercise will also assist in weight loss. Benefits of Diet and Exercise In addition to maintaining a healthy weight, those who exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet enjoy many health benefits. Decreased Risk of Heart Disease Studies have shown that those who exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet have fewer heart problems. A diet low in fat and cholesterol also reduces the chance of blocked arteries. Additionally, regular, moderate-intensity exercise, helps lower blood pressure and decrease heart rate over time. Improved Mood A healthy diet and regular exercise promote relaxation and contentment. When an individual is hungry, the body is signaling its desire for nutrients. This need cannot be fulfilled through the consumption of high-fat foods with low nutritional values, so the individual does not experience satisfaction. In addition, blood sugar levels that are too low or too high often cause irritability. Moreover, studies have shown that exercising causes the body to release endorphins, which elevate the mood, so the combination of consuming a nutritious diet and exercising regularly, promotes happiness as well as health. Improved Energy Levels Good nutrition and exercise also contribute to a high energy level for several reasons. Blood sugar levels that are too low or too high cause lethargy and fatigue in most people. Eating properly maintains the blood sugar at proper levels. In addition, exercise promotes an increased flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body and helps to achieve efficient heart function. Improved Sleep Another benefit of exercise is the improved the quality of sleep. A good night's sleep is important for concentration and memory, as well as for renewing energy levels. While exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, it may interfere with sleep if engaged in too close to bedtime, so establishing a proper, well-timed exercise routine is important. Diet and exercise are important steps to leading a healthy life. Those who have not exercised in a long time should start out slowly to avoid injury. If there are any underlying health conditions, a doctor should be consulted in order to develop an appropriate diet and exercise plan.