Unseen Summer Pests

2025-09-08T13:12:52+00:00September 8th, 2025|Families, Public Health|

Cicada Mites: My Unexpected Summer Surprise

Late summer in my garden should have been relaxing. I was enjoying the sunshine, tending to my plants, and listening to the soft hum of summer insects. But the next morning, I noticed itchy red bumps spreading across my arms. At first, I thought it might be an allergic reaction to something I touched—but soon I realized this itchy rash was from something different: cicada mites.

What Are Cicada Mites?

Cicada mites (Pyemotes herfsi) are tiny, nearly invisible pests that usually feed on cicada eggs and other insects. During cicada emergences, they can bite humans, causing intense itching and small, red, raised bumps. The effect can be similar to an allergic reaction localized.

Healthcare shouldn’t feel complicated

 

Symptoms You Might Notice

Cicada mite bites/burrowing can cause:

  1. Intense itching—sometimes hours after exposure
  2. Red, raised bumps or welts, often on exposed skin
  3. Localized rash, commonly on the arms, neck, and upper torso
  4. Occasional secondary infection if bites are scratched repeatedly

For me, the itching was relentless and the lesions actually became “weepy.”

How I Managed It

I found relief through:

  • Topical steroid creams to calm inflammation
  • Oral antihistamines to control itching
  • Calamine lotion for soothing relief
  • COLD ice applied to soothe worked well

I also learned a few prevention tips to avoid future issues:

  • Avoid spending time near oak trees during peak cicada activity
  • Wear long sleeves and pants when gardening
  • Shower soon after outdoor activities to remove any mites on the skin

When to Seek Help

While cicada mite bites are usually harmless, severe reactions, widespread rashes, or persistent symptoms warrant a medical check-up. At Roots Health DPC, we provide personalized guidance to help you manage reactions, prevent complications, and get back to enjoying your summer.

Get relief and learn how to protect yourself.

How DPC Works for Families

2025-08-19T13:29:09+00:00August 19th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Health Care|

Concierge Care vs. Direct Primary Care:

What’s the Difference and Why DPC Is the Smarter Choice for Families

When it comes to primary care, many people are confused by the options. You may have heard terms like Concierge Medicine and Direct Primary Care (DPC) used interchangeably. But while they may sound similar, they are very different models of care—especially when it comes to cost, access, and who they’re really for.

If you’ve assumed DPC is just “concierge care by another name,” let’s set the record straight.

Not Just for the Wealthy: DPC Was Built for Everyday Families

Concierge care has often catered to the wealthy, with price tags to match—think $2,000+ annual fees on top of regular insurance costs.

At Roots Health DPC, we’ve taken a completely different approach: make high-quality, personalized primary care available and affordable for working families—whether you’re insured, underinsured, or not insured at all.

And it starts at prices that might surprise you:

  • Children: $36/month
  • Adults: $78/month

No copays. No surprise bills. No middlemen.

Ready to See the Difference?

 

So What’s the Difference? Let’s Break It Down:

Here’s a quick look at how Direct Primary Care (DPC) stacks up against Concierge Medicine:

Feature

Direct Primary Care (DPC)

Concierge Care

Monthly Fee

Low and affordable ($36–$78)

High annual retainer ($2,000+)

Insurance Required

❌ No

✅ Yes

Copays or Deductibles

❌ None

✅ Often required

Visit Time with Doctor

30–60 minutes

30–60 minutes

Same/Next-Day Appointments

 ✅Yes ✅Yes

Direct Doctor Messaging/Access

 ✅Yes

✅Yes

Focus

Affordability + Access

Luxury + Convenience

Ideal For

Families, individuals, small business employees

Wealthy executives

Why Roots Health DPC Just Makes More Sense

  1. ✅ Predictable monthly pricing for your whole family
  2. ✅ Direct access to your physician via call, text, or video
  3. ✅ Unlimited visits, longer appointment times, and no rushed care
  4. ✅ Chronic care management without added costs
  5. ✅ Same-day appointments when your child wakes up with a fever

You shouldn’t need a platinum credit card to get platinum-level care. And with Roots Health DPC, you don’t.

Still Think DPC Sounds “Too Good to Be True”?

We get it—when something offers this much value, people assume there’s a catch. But this is healthcare reimagined: no gimmicks, no hidden fees, just smarter care designed to help your family thrive.

It’s time to stop settling for overbooked doctors and overpriced insurance plans. Experience a model that works for you—not against you.

Simplify your family’s healthcare—without the stress.

EXHAUSTION

2025-07-14T13:03:49+00:00July 14th, 2025|Families, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

Feeling Wiped Out?

3 Questions Reveal What Your Body’s Really Telling You

You’re not sleeping well.

Your energy crashes every afternoon.

You’re foggy, irritable, and tired—even after a weekend “off.”

It’s easy to blame it on burnout, the kids’ summer schedule, or just “getting older.”

But let me be clear: chronic exhaustion isn’t something you just have to live with.

The truth is, when someone tells me they’re feeling wiped out, I don’t assume it’s just stress or overdoing it. I start asking root-cause questions—the kind that reveal what your body’s really trying to say.

Question 1: Is This Physical, Hormonal, or Emotional Fatigue?

Fatigue is a signal—but the source isn’t always obvious. Here’s what we need to rule out first:

🔬 Anemia – Especially in menstruating women or those with low iron stores. Even “mild” anemia can cause crushing fatigue.

🧠 Thyroid dysfunction – Low thyroid hormone can mimic depression and zap your energy, focus, and mood.

😴 Sleep apnea – If you’re waking up tired after a “full night’s sleep,” this is one to investigate—especially if you snore or feel sluggish midday.

⚖️ Perimenopause/menopause – Hormone shifts can cause brain fog, insomnia, mood swings, and extreme fatigue that feel totally disorienting.

💭 Depression or high-functioning burnout – Many women push through for months before realizing their low energy and motivation aren’t “normal.”

All of these issues present with similar symptoms—but require very different treatment plans. And that’s why a quick “you’re just stressed” from a rushed visit won’t cut it.

You’re not lazy. You need answers—and we’re here to help.

Question 2: What Does True Rest Look Like For You?

Spoiler alert: zoning out on the couch or scrolling your phone isn’t real rest.

Your body needs restorative inputs, not just time off. In my practice, we often talk about the difference between:

🧘‍♀️ Restorative rest – sleep hygiene, nervous system regulation, quiet time

🍷 Escapism – wine, screens, or numbing out when you feel overwhelmed

🧩 Alignment – the activities that actually recharge you, not drain you

Sometimes fatigue isn’t about illness—it’s about disconnection from what your body and brain actually need to recover.

Question 3: What Patterns Are Emerging?

One of the best things about Direct Primary Care? I know my patients’ stories.

When you’re in my care, we’re not starting from scratch every visit. I track your labs over time, notice your stress triggers, and look for patterns—seasonal dips, hormone cycles, major life transitions. It’s how we catch issues early before they escalate into burnout, hormone imbalance, or chronic illness.

Energy Isn’t Just About Willpower

You’re not lazy or “making it up” and you don’t need to “just push through.”

You might need a custom iron plan. Or a thyroid adjustment. Or help navigating perimenopause. Or a deeper look into sleep quality.

The point is: your body has a reason—and you deserve a doctor who takes the time to help you find it.

The Kind of Care Our Members Get Daily

At my DPC practice, you’re not a chart or a checklist. You’re a whole person and the relationship between physician and patient is front and center. When your energy is low, we listen. We test. We uncover. We treat at the root cause.

We get to the bottom of your symptoms.

Making Healthcare Easy

2025-06-04T23:43:21+00:00June 4th, 2025|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Membership|

What Direct Primary Care Means for Busy Families

If you’re like the rest of us, your calendar is full, your mental to-do list is overflowing, and the last thing you want to do is sit in a waiting room with a sick kid for hours—only to get five rushed minutes with a doctor you’ve never met before.

Interested in how Direct Primary Care works?

That’s why Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a better way to care for your family.

At Roots health DPC, we’re flipping the script on traditional care with a smarter, more personal approach designed to save you time, eliminate stress, and give you peace of mind that your family’s health is always in good hands.

Here’s what busy families love most about DPC:

✅1. Same- or next-day appointments — No long waits. You text or call, and we make it happen.

2.✅ Direct access to your doctor — Skip the front desk. You communicate directly with your physician.

3.✅ No surprise bills — One monthly membership covers all your visits. No co-pays, no deductibles.

4.✅ More time during visits — We don’t rush. We listen, answer questions, and treat the whole person.

5.✅ Care for the whole family — From your toddler’s rash to your cholesterol…. we’ve got you.

Busy doesn’t mean you have to compromise on care.

In fact, the busier you are, the more DPC makes sense. You don’t have time to chase down next steps or wait weeks to be seen. With Roots Health DPC, you get modern high quality care with an old-school feel—where your doctor knows you, calls you back, and shows up for your family.

We’re growing—fast. Join today.

We are enrolling through the end of June. We’re committed to keeping care personalized and unrushed so we keep our patient panel size manageable. Take a spot now before we open our waitlist in July.

Join Now — and experience what healthcare should feel like

Earth Day

2025-04-21T13:22:36+00:00April 21st, 2025|Families, Public Health|

The Environment and Your Health

When we think about health, we often focus on diet, exercise, and medical care—but what about the air we breathe, the water we drink, or even the materials in our homes? This Earth Day, let’s talk about how environmental factors impact health and why being mindful of our surroundings is just as important as routine checkups.

Your Local Environment & Your Health

From air pollution to water quality, environmental factors play a direct role in well-being. In the Midwest, for example, radon exposure is a known risk, leading to lung health concerns. Many people are unaware of these hidden dangers, making regular environmental screenings and awareness essential for long-term health.

Knowledge is power! Protect your health and make good choices.

 

A Smarter, Greener Approach to Health

Your body thrives when you reduce toxins, eat nourishing foods, and support your immune system naturally. Choosing whole, organic foods, limiting exposure to harmful chemicals, and incorporating immune-boosting habits like proper hydration, quality sleep, and stress management can significantly impact overall wellness. By making greener choices, you are protecting the planet AND creating the healthiest possible environment for your body to function at its best.

Take control of your health with a complimentary wellness consultation!

 

Take Control of Your Health & Environment

A healthier planet leads to healthier, longer lives. Book a complimentary wellness consultation today to learn how your environment may be affecting your health and what steps you can take for a cleaner, safer future.

We take a digital-first approach to care, eliminating paper waste and making your healthcare more efficient, accessible, and eco-friendly.

Schedule your session today!

Stay Fit This Winter

2025-02-24T14:48:41+00:00February 24th, 2025|Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Easy Indoor Workouts & Wellness Tips!

Winter brings cold temperatures and shorter days. But don’t fall out of your regular exercise routine… stay active indoors! We’re here to help you stay fit this winter with simple indoor workouts that keep you moving.

Why Staying Active is Important

Staying active during winter helps boost your mood, strengthens your immune system, improves sleep, and increases energy. Even when it’s cold outside, maintaining a routine will help keep you feeling your best.

Don’t let winter slow you down!

Indoor Exercise Ideas

Cardio:

Jumping jacks, high knees, and burpees can all get your heart pumping indoors.

Climbing stairs is also a great way to get moving.

Strength Training:

Bodyweight exercises like squats, push-ups, lunges, and planks can be done anywhere.

Use household items like water bottles or backpacks for added resistance.

Yoga and Pilates:

These practices improve flexibility and strength. Follow along with online classes or create your own flow with simple poses like downward dog and child’s pose. Don’t forget the breathwork!

Dance:

Put on your favorite music and dance around your living room for a fun (one of my favorites).

 

Get expert guidance tailored to your lifestyle!

Roots Health DPC: Supporting Your Active Lifestyle

At Roots Health DPC, we’re here to support your fitness journey all year long. Do not overcomplicate it! Stay fit.

Stay active, stay healthy, and enjoy the winter months. Need personalized advice? Schedule a consultation with us today! ❄️💪

Prioritize Wellness

2025-01-20T12:16:28+00:00January 20th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Families, Health Care, Public Health|

Making Wellness a Priority:

How to Build Sustainable Habits for Lasting Change

The start of a new year brings fresh motivation, but how many of us have found that our resolutions fade by February? Whether it’s losing weight, exercising more, or eating healthier, many New Year’s resolutions are abandoned because we try to make drastic changes too quickly. This year, instead of focusing on a single goal or quick fix, let’s focus on building sustainable habits that will help you achieve long-term wellness.

With National Healthy Weight Week kicking off January, it’s the perfect time to remind ourselves that lasting health isn’t about chasing a number on the scale—it’s about feeling good in your body, boosting your energy, and making balanced, consistent choices. It’s about creating habits that become second nature. As the new year begins, many of us are filled with the drive to make positive changes in our lives.

The Power of Habits Over Resolutions

At the heart of long-term success is consistency. This year, let’s shift the focus from quick fixes to sustainable habits that you can continue throughout the year—and beyond.

.

Learn more about the health care you deserve.

A Healthy Weight is More Than a Number

We often think of “healthy weight” as a specific number on the scale, but in reality, it’s about feeling strong, energetic, and confident in your body. Healthy weight isn’t just about losing pounds—it’s about balancing your physical, mental, and emotional health. Rather than obsessing over a number, consider your wellness in broader terms: are you sleeping well? Are you moving your body regularly? Are you nourishing yourself with whole, nutrient-dense foods?

As we celebrate National Healthy Weight Week, it’s a good time to remember that lasting health comes from balanced lifestyle choices. This includes eating nutritious foods, staying physically active, managing stress, and getting enough sleep.

Creating Sustainable Habits for Wellness

So how do you make wellness a priority this year? Instead of focusing on drastic resolutions that can be hard to maintain, try these simple habits that you can incorporate into your routine for sustainable health:

1. Eat Balanced, Whole Foods

Focus on meals that are rich in nutrients—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Start by incorporating one or two healthier meals into your week, like a hearty vegetable stir-fry or a fresh salad with lean protein. Over time, as these meals become a regular part of your routine, you’ll find it easier to make healthier choices overall.

2. Move Your Body Regularly

Exercise doesn’t have to mean spending hours at the gym. Find activities that you enjoy—whether that’s walking, yoga, swimming, or dancing. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, but remember that even small amounts of movement can make a big difference. Start with a short daily walk, or take the stairs instead of the elevator. The goal is to make movement a regular, enjoyable part of your day.

3. Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management

Sleep and stress management are often overlooked but are crucial components of overall wellness. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night and incorporate stress-relief practices into your routine—whether it’s deep breathing, meditation, journaling, or simply taking time for yourself. Reducing stress and getting quality sleep supports both physical health and emotional well-being.

4. Set Realistic, Achievable Goals

The key to success is setting small, realistic goals that are easy to achieve. Instead of a broad goal like “lose weight,” break it down into specific, manageable steps: perhaps aiming to cook more meals at home, increase your water intake, or walk 10,000 steps a day. These small wins build momentum, helping you stay on track and feel accomplished.

Ready to create sustainable habits that work for you?


Start Small, Build Momentum

Remember, the goal is to create lasting habits, not quick fixes. Make the small changes…whether it’s replacing sugary snacks with fruit or committing to a 10-minute daily stretch, these habits will compound over time, helping you feel stronger, healthier, and more energized.

The start of a new year is the perfect time to focus on your wellness—but true change comes when you shift from “resolutions” to “habits.”

Instead of setting an intention to “lose weight” or “exercise more,” commit to creating a lifestyle that supports your overall health. When you make wellness a priority and focus on building sustainable habits, you set the foundation for a healthier, happier future.

Thyroid Awareness Month

2025-01-13T14:58:11+00:00January 13th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Thyroid Disease …

the symptoms and what you need to know

Approximately 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, yet 60% of those affected are unaware of their condition. January is Thyroid Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of understanding thyroid health and recognizing the early signs of thyroid disorders. At Roots Health DPC, we dedicate our time to empowering you in all aspects of your health—including your thyroid.

What is the Thyroid?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower front of your neck, and it plays a crucial role in regulating your metabolism and overall health. It produces thyroid hormones that affect almost every organ and system in your body. From controlling your heart rate to managing how quickly food moves through your digestive system, the thyroid is one of the most important endocrine organs in your body.

The Importance of Awareness

  1. Women are 5-8 times more likely than men to experience thyroid problems. In fact, 1 in 8 women will develop a thyroid disorder in their lifetime.
  2. Untreated thyroid disease can lead to serious conditions, including heart disease, osteoporosis, and infertility.

While thyroid problems can be life-long, they can often be managed effectively with proper care. That’s why it’s so important to stay informed and ask questions when it comes to your thyroid health.

We treat the WHOLE person.

What are the Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Disease?

Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism):

  1. Racing heart rate
  2. Weight loss with increased appetite
  3. Anxiety, insomnia, or nervousness
  4. Muscle weakness

Underactive Thyroid (Hypothyroidism):

  1. Fatigue, sluggishness
  2. Weight gain
  3. Cold intolerance, constipation
  4. Hair loss or depression

Thyroid Nodules or Cancer:

  1. Unusual lump or swelling in the neck
  2. New cough, hoarseness, or swollen glands

Getting Screened: The Importance of Testing

If you’re concerned about thyroid health, screening is key. Blood tests like the TSH test are commonly used to assess thyroid function. TSH levels can serve as an early indicator of thyroid issues, even before symptoms develop. Additional tests, such as T4 and T3 tests, help diagnose conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Ask Questions

Your thyroid health matters, and it’s important to feel comfortable asking questions about your health and screenings. At Roots Health DPC, we work with you to ensure that you fully understand your condition and understand all the options for management so that you can make the best decision for your well-being.

Book a FREE Meet and Greet TODAY

This Thyroid Awareness Month, take the first step towards better health by checking in with your physician to work together to keep you healthy, informed, and empowered.

Habits

2025-01-06T13:01:41+00:00January 6th, 2025|Community, Direct Primary Care, Families, Public Health|

Transform Your Health: Building Lasting Habits

At Roots Health, we believe that wellness isn’t just about occasional efforts—it’s about creating lasting habits that lead to lasting change. The secret to real transformation lies in our daily routines, and we’ve taken the principles of habit formation to heart in our blueprint for wellness and help our patients intentionally build healthier habits, one step at a time.

Harness the Power of Your Brain

Did you know that your brain is constantly working behind the scenes to make your life more efficient? It’s true! Our brains are incredibly powerful, organizing and integrating massive amounts of data quickly, so we can perform routine tasks on “auto-pilot” without even thinking about it. This ability to create habitual pathways is a gift, and at Roots Health, we believe you can harness it to design the life you want.

Transform your health by building habits that last a lifetime!

But how can you take control of your habits and steer your brain toward health and wellness? It starts with understanding the process of habit formation and using it to your advantage.

What is a Habit?

A habit is a behavior you perform regularly—something that, over time, becomes automatic. For example, brushing your teeth or making your morning coffee. The process of forming a new habit involves repetition and consistent practice. But it’s not just about doing something repeatedly; it’s about understanding how to build habits intentionally, so they become a seamless part of your life.

At Roots Health DPC, Dr. Diaz works closely with patients to develop personalized wellness plans that revolve around intentional habit formation. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, manage stress, or adopt better nutrition habits, we’ll help you create the pathways that lead to lasting success.

The Habit Loop: Cue, Behavior, Reward

Your brain forms habits by following a simple loop: cue → behavior → reward. The more often this loop is repeated, the stronger the pathway becomes. Here’s an example:

Let’s say you want to start meditating daily. Instead of focusing directly on the behavior (the meditation itself), focus on the cue that will trigger the habit. You can link your meditation practice to something you already do every day—like making your morning coffee. Here’s how you could set it up:

  1. Cue: As soon as you begin brewing your coffee, it’s time to meditate.
  2. Behavior: Spend 2 minutes meditating while your coffee brews.
  3. Reward: Enjoy your coffee after you meditate.

By linking a new behavior (meditation) to an existing habit (coffee brewing), you create an easy and natural flow. Over time, the habit of meditation will become just as automatic as drinking coffee. And soon, you might even start to feel off if you skip it. That’s the power of intentional habit-building.

Habits vs. Goals: The Key to Sustainable Success

At Roots Health, we guide patients through the process of habit formation, not just goal setting. Goals are important, but they are just the destination. Habits are the journey, the daily actions that carry you toward those goals.

For example, if your goal is to lose weight, the habit might be daily exercise, meal prepping, or mindful eating. Focusing on small, consistent habits will carry you much further than obsessing over the end goal. When you build the right habits, the results will follow.

Let’s turn intentions into lifelong habits.

 

Start Today: Build Your Wellness Routine

If you’re truly ready to level up your life and embrace self-care, the first step is understanding the power of habits. At Roots Health, we’re here to guide you through this process. With a focus on personalized care and sustainable wellness strategies, we’ll help you build the habits that will transform your health—for life.

Are you ready to create a wellness routine that works for you? Let’s start building your future, one habit at a time.

Start with DPC

2024-12-30T14:13:31+00:00December 30th, 2024|Community, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Membership, Public Health|

New Year, New Health:

Start Your Wellness Journey TODAY

As we step into 2025, many of us are reflecting on the year ahead and setting new wellness goals. Whether it’s improving fitness, managing stress, or prioritizing preventive care, New Year’s resolutions often focus on taking charge of our health. But how can you ensure these resolutions stick beyond January?

At Roots Health, we believe that health goals are most achievable with personalized care and consistent support. That’s where Direct Primary Care (DPC) comes in. Our innovative healthcare model offers dedicated, proactive care designed to help you stay on track all year long.

Discover how Roots Health DPC can provide personalized care and lasting results.

 

Why Choose DPC for Your Wellness Journey?

In traditional healthcare, visits are often rushed, leaving little room for personalized attention. With DPC, you have direct access to a physician who knows you, your health history, and your wellness goals. This partnership provides the guidance, resources, and accountability you need to make lasting changes.

Setting Realistic Health Resolutions

The best way to achieve your health goals is by starting small and staying consistent. At Roots Health, your DPC physician will work with you to:

  1. Assess your current health and create a personalized action plan.
  2. Set realistic goals and track your progress with regular check-ins.
  3. Adjust your plan as needed to ensure lasting success.

Kickstart 2025 with Roots Health DPC

As we open our doors to new families in January, we’re looking for members who prioritize their health and are ready for real transformation. If you’re ready to commit to your wellness journey in 2025, we’d love to partner with you.

Start your journey with personalized care at Roots Health DPC and make 2025 your healthiest year yet.

Take the first step—schedule your consultation now and start 2025 with confidence!

© Copyright 2020 Roots-MD LLC, dba Roots Health DPC
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