December 2019 - Elite Care Family Medicine

Influenza is one of the most common yet complicated illnesses experienced during the cold months in the United States. It’s common because nearly everyone gets the flu at some point in their life. It’s complicated because it affects everyone differently. Same Flu, Different Effects Though the symptoms are the same, the severity and duration of the symptoms vary. Some people groups including young children, pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems,...

Few people doubt the flu vaccine has been instrumental in preventing prolonged illness and even flu-related deaths in modern times, but even the biggest proponents of the vaccine admit we’ve got a long way to go before it’s considered “perfected.”  “Even in a good year, the effectiveness of the vaccine is about 60%. On a bad year, it’s as low as 10%. And there’s a reason for that,” Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of...

The holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year but for many, it’s a time of increased stress and anxiety. Some seek medical assistance to deal with the added anxiety of the holiday season, but experts say there’s one thing we can all do during the holidays that instantly helps to combat anxiety and stress, and it’s something you’re already doing today. We’re talking about keeping up your daily routine.  That’s right. Keeping your...

In November 2019, a young girl in China was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery after swallowing magnetic balls that tore holes in her stomach. The magnetic balls were given to the girl’s older brother as a gift, and she was alone when she consumed them. After surgery, the child is expected to make a recovery, but the incident could have easily turned deadly had her parents not sought medical help. It’s a cautionary tale that reminds parents to be mindful...