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Retinoids: Your Skin Care Essential

2023-08-21T13:14:56+00:00August 21st, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

Skin Care Routines: The Lowdown on Retinoids

As we age, collagen production slows… causing wrinkles and signs of aging. Eating a diet rich in anti-oxidants, staying hydrated, using daily facial sunscreen and moisturizer are all critical components for a healthy skin care routine. Today we look at retinoids as a basic foundation for anti-aging skin care routines.

What are retinoids?

A derivative of vitamin A, retinoids can tackle everything from fine lines and pigmentation to acne. They achieve this by boosting the turnover rate of skin cells. Retinoids accelerate the rate of skin cell division and new cell growth which helps thicken the top layer. Retinols and other retinoids also work deep in the skin’s dermis layer to stimulate collagen and elastin production. These skin proteins naturally decrease with time, leading to thinning skin and other visible signs of aging. Boosting their production, then, allows retinoids to offer pro-aging support.

What’s Retinol?

When it comes to retinol and retinoids, plenty of people get a little confused — but with good reason. These two anti-aging ingredients aren’t entirely different. In fact, retinol is a sub-type of retinoid.

From reducing the appearance of wrinkles to easing the effects of sun damage retinoids can offer plenty of skin benefits. Retinoids most often describe more powerful prescription products, while retinol generally refers to weaker over-the-counter (OTC) formulas. OTC formulas tend to be less drying but they are still effective… if used consistently over long periods of time.

Feeling confident in our skin is an important part of well-being. At Roots Health DPC we support our patients on their wellness journey.

Should you use retinoid or retinol?

Before deciding, you’ll want to consider your skin type and the severity of the problem you’re trying to treat. Retinols are generally recommended for dry skin as they tend to be less drying and often are formulated with hydration ingredients.

Side effects of retinoids including irritation, redness, burning suggest an overly aggressive routine and can occur if you do not “ease your way” into retinoid use by starting slowly.

Contraindications to all retinoids include pregnancy, lactating, or trying to conceive.

How to use retinoids?

WHEN to put them into your skin care routine: at night after washing with a gentle cleanser. Start 3 nights per week and increase to daily after a few weeks if your skin can tolerate.

HOW to apply: use a pea-size amount when face is dry. Apply moisturizer afterward to avoid irritation. Using sunscreen on a daily basis is a MUST while applying retinoids.

ANYTHING ELSE? Check the ingredient list of your other skin care products, as retinoids can interact with other formulas and should not be used with benzoyl peroxide for example.

Combining retinoids with ethyl alcohol or acidic products, can dry out your skin and lead to redness and irritation.

If you have dry skin, creamier formulas can offer more hydration. If you have normal, oily, or combination skin, you might prefer a thinner gel consistency.

We are accepting a limited number of new patients.

Effective Migraine Treatments

2023-08-14T13:00:08+00:00August 14th, 2023|Adults, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

Treating Migraines: What works?

What medicines can help relieve migraine pain?

There are 2 main categories of medications for migraine treatments: abortive and preventive.

Abortive treatments focus on stopping the headache from becoming severe and relieve the headache pain. These treatments are best started as soon as the migraine is first noticed to be starting.

Preventive treatments are medicines that are taken daily to reduce how often headaches occur and aim to decrease the frequency of migraines.

 

Migraine diagnosis and treatment planning is unique and individualized based on symptoms and co-existing conditions.

Speaking to your physician about your migraines is imperative. When patients at Roots Health DPC have a migraine they know they can call or text their physician anytime and adjust the treatment as needed. Can you get ahold of your doctor when you need health care?

Once you have identified migraine triggers and made lifestyle changes, if your migraines are still affecting your well-being there are a plethora of options to review with your physician. We review a few of them briefly here.

Abortive Medications: Medications used to relieve migraine pain work best when taken at the first sign of an oncoming migraine — as soon as symptoms of a migraine begin.

Abortive medications include:

-Over the Counter Migraine relief medications that combine caffeine, aspirin and acetaminophen (Excedrin Migraine) may be helpful against mild migraine pain.

-Triptans: Class of meds including sumatriptan (Imitrex) and rizatriptan (Maxalt) treat migraines and are taken as pills, shots or nasal sprays.

-Dihydroergotamine (Migranal): Available as nasal spray or injection.

–Others: Lasmiditan (Reyvow) an oral tablet, Gepants class including Ubrogepant (Ubrelvy), and Zavegepant (Zavzpret) a nasal spray.

Preventive medications. These types of drugs are taken regularly, often daily, to reduce the severity or frequency of migraines.

Preventative Options include:

-Blood pressure-lowering medications: beta blockers such as propranolol and metoprolol. Calcium channel blockers such as verapamil.

-Antidepressants. A tricyclic antidepressant, amitriptyline.

-Anti-seizure drugs. Valproate and topiramate (Topamax).

-Botox injections. Injections about every 12 weeks help prevent migraines in some adults.

–Others: Calcitonin gene-related peptides (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies are newer medicines given monthly or quarterly by injection, some gepants are used daily.

If you are looking for board-certified physician care that takes time to address all of your health care needs in a comprehensive manner…. Schedule an introductory call today.

Migraine Headaches

2023-08-07T13:38:06+00:00August 7th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Is it a Migraine Headache?

Migraines can cause throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. These headaches are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Attacks can last for hours to days, and the pain can interfere with daily activities.

What is an Aura?

A warning symptom, an aura, can occur before the headache. An aura might be visual disturbances, such as flashes of light, or other disturbances, like tingling on one side of the face, arm or leg or even difficulty speaking.

Risk Factors for Migraines

Family history: If you have a family member with migraines, then you have a good chance of developing them too.

Sex. Women are three times more likely than men to have migraines..

Age. Most people have their first migraine during adolescence, but migraines can start at any age, usually before age 40.

Hormonal changes. Headaches can begin around menstruation. They can change during pregnancy or menopause. Migraines generally improve after menopause.

Are you looking for a board-certified physician who you can just text to answer your medical questions when you don’t feel well?

Triggers for migraines

Certain Drinks and Foods . Alcohol and excess caffeine can trigger migraines.

Stress triggers migraines. Stress includes feeling overwhelmed at home or work. But you can also become stressed by exercising too much or not getting enough sleep.

Senses: Loud sounds, bright lights , or strong smells may trigger migraines.

Hormonal changes. Fluctuations in estrogen, such as around menstrual periods, pregnancy and menopause can worsen migraines.

Illness. Infections, such as the cold or the flu, may trigger migraines, especially in children.

Weather changes. A change of weather or barometric pressure can prompt a migraine.

Medications. Some medications, including oral contraceptives, can trigger migraines

Keeping a Journal of your migraine symptoms can be a key to treatment planning.

Do you recognize the value of high-quality board-certified care with a physician you trust and can reach easily?

Self Care

2023-07-24T14:45:13+00:00July 24th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Health Care|

Self Care is not Selfish

We all lead full lives, but are we really “too busy” to prioritize ourselves first? It can be hard to prioritize our own well-being when we have so many other seemingly “more important” obligations. Sometimes, it feels like there is “not enough time” to get it all done and some of us might just choose to skip the self-care piece. I have been in your shoes and had that thought… “I am just too busy.”

What if there was plenty of time? What would that feel like? What if you were able to focus your attention and spend time on the things that brought you joy intentionally? What if you did not just complete an endless “to do” task list but instead found meaning and purpose in all the activities of your day?

I understand how balancing parenting, work, and our own growth can seem impossible and leave you feeling like you cannot do a great job in one area without compromising other areas.

We all have unique circumstances and challenges that serve as a catalyst for our own personal growth and evolution ….and we do learn from those experiences… but WHAT we learn is what allows us to move forward in the direction of our dreams. The brain is an awesome organ… it is extremely malleable, teachable, and trainable. Questioning our thoughts and beliefs about what is “true” grants us the ability to adopt new habits that help us grow and thrive rather than merely survive.

Are you seeking healthcare that prioritizes an unhurried approach, offers comprehensive services, and ensures convenience?

“When my thinking changed, my life changed.”

When I look at my “to do list” today, I view it as something I “get to do” instead of something “I have to do.” I prioritize time for self-care and I become a more focused and productive participant in my own life. TIME is our most valuable resource. When we know exactly how we want to spend it, we can live a life filled with meaning and purpose.

Self-care is the foundation for success in all the areas of your life. Filling your own cup first so that you can serve others is not selfish…. it is necessary.

Interested in learning more? Dr Diaz takes a holistic approach to wellness at Roots Health DPC.

“The kissing disease”

2023-07-17T13:28:01+00:00July 17th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Mono, mononucleosis, is known as the “kissing disease.” This viral infection occurs in teens and young adults. It is spread through saliva and travels through groups living in close quarters, making outbreaks happen most frequently in dormitory living. It commonly causes a sore throat, but it can cause fatigue fever and swollen lymph nodes throughout the body.

What are the symptoms of mono?

Recognizing symptoms is essential for early diagnosis and effective care:

• Fatigue

• Fever

• Headache

• Muscle weakness

• Night sweats

• Sore throat

• Swollen lymph glands in your neck and/or underarms

• Swollen tonsils

Of note, these symptoms can be present in other diseases including Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a type of cancer in young adults. It is important that you get an accurate diagnosis whenever you are sick. We recommend that you always seek care from your board-certified physician when it comes to your health and well-being.

Can you get into your board-certified physician quickly and easily when you need to see your doctor? At Roots Health DPC you can text your doctor directly for care when you need it.

What is the best care for Mono?

Supportive care is recommended generally to alleviate symptoms and facilitate smooth recovery. Most people recover from mono after about two weeks, though some symptoms may persist for longer.

Anti-inflammatory medications can help manage throat pain

Fluids to hydrate and nutrients to boost your immune system

Rest is crucial to prevent complications and aid recovery

Warm compresses to painful lymph nodes

Corticosteroids can be used in severe cases for tonsil swelling

Complications of mono include temporary inflammation of the liver (hepatitis), jaundice (yellowing of your skin and darkening of urine) or an enlarged or ruptured spleen.

Find Expert Board-Certified Care at Roots Health DPC Whenever You or Your Loved Ones Need Care.

Your Tiredness Explained

2023-07-10T14:05:23+00:00July 10th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

How tired is too tired?

What is the difference between “being tired” and the diagnosis of fatigue?

Tiredness happens to everyone — it’s expected after certain activities or at the end of the day. A good night’s sleep solves the problem.

Fatigue is an ongoing daily lack of energy: excessive whole-body tiredness not relieved by sleep. It can stop someone from functioning normally and affects a person’s quality of life.

What causes fatigue?

Lifestyle Factors. Taking an honest inventory of things that could be causing your fatigue is the first step toward relief.

Evaluating exercise, nutrition, alcohol use, and medications and routines can have an enormous impact on levels of fatigue.

Modifications can often dramatically impact levels of fatigue.

Medical Conditions. Speak to your doctor for an evaluation if you have fatigue.

Anemia: a common blood disorder that makes it hard for your blood to move oxygen to your organs. No oxygen, no energy.

Thyroid problems: this gland in your neck regulates your metabolism and energy levels. When the thyroid gland out of whack, you’re out of whack.

Depression: undiagnosed/untreated depression can rob your brain of the chemicals needed to work at its best.

Many other medical conditions including: Infections, Sleep Apnea, and Heart or Lung Disease can manifest the symptom of fatigue as well.

Recap:

Fatigue is never normal. Get back to living the life you want to live…seek care from your physician and get to the root cause of the problem so that you can start recovering and boost your energy levels.

Looking for a physician who listens and takes the time to answer all of your questions? At Roots Health DPC we offer unrushed comprehensive visits. Your wellness is our priority.

Unlocking the Secrets of Incontinence: Reclaiming Control and Confidence

2023-06-26T13:24:40+00:00June 26th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care|

Drips and Leaks…

what is urinary incontinence?

Urinary incontinence is the accidental loss of urine. It is more common than most people are aware of.  25 million adult Americans experience temporary or chronic urinary incontinence. It can range from the discomfort of slight losses of urine to severe, frequent wetting.

What causes urinary incontinence and what to do about it?

It is caused by specific changes in body function that may result from diseases, use of medications and/or the onset of an illness. Women are most likely to develop urinary incontinence during pregnancy and after childbirth, or after the hormonal changes of menopause.

Although these conditions are incredibly common, women often suffer in silence. Some find these symptoms embarrassing and refrain from discussing them with friends or family members. Women should understand that leakage is NOT a normal part of aging and that goals of treatment include minimizing and eliminating the need for the use of pads as a self-management strategy.

Fortunately, the diagnosis and treatment of incontinence can dramatically improve the quality of life of women who suffer from these conditions.

Are you looking for health care that is unrushed, comprehensive, and convenient? Direct Primary Care makes health care simple.

How is urinary incontinence diagnosed?

Urinary incontinence is not normal and it is important to consult with your doctor. Urinary incontinence is diagnosed with a complete physical examination that focuses on the urinary and nervous systems, reproductive organs, and urine samples.

The common types of urinary incontinence are:

  • Stress incontinence—With stress incontinence, urine leakage occurs when the bladder is under pressure, such as when a person laughs, coughs, sneezes or exercises.
  • Urge incontinence—Urge incontinence involves a strong, sudden urge to urinate that results in leakage. These types of incontinence are defined by their causes. Many women may experience a combination of both stress and urge incontinence — a condition commonly referred to as mixed urinary incontinence.
  • Mixed Incontinence- A combination of both types

What is the treatment for urinary incontinence?

Specific treatment for urinary incontinence will be determined by your doctor based on what type of incontinence it is, the extent of the symptoms, any underlying medical conditions, and patient preference.

Treatments may include:

  • Behavioral therapies: such as bladder training or toileting routines
  • Diet modifications: Eliminating bladder irritants, such as caffeine, alcohol and citrus fruits.
  • Pelvic muscle rehabilitation: to improve pelvic muscle tone and prevent leakage and possibly biofeedback as well as vaginal weight training.
  • Medication : vaginal estrogens and anticholinergics
  • Modifying contributory factors: weight loss, eliminate medication side effects, treat constipation
  • Office procedures, Pessary, Surgery

Each person deserves an individualized consult with their physician regarding symptoms, diagnosis, and management for urinary incontinence.

Are you looking for a physician that takes the time to listen and gets solutions that work for you? We are accepting a limited number of new patients.

Recognizing Emergency Warning Signs For Headaches

2023-06-19T14:46:18+00:00June 19th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

Headaches Unveiled

Headaches are common… but What are the Emergency Warning Signs that tell you to seek care Immediately?

Almost everyone has had a headache at some point.  Headaches can be due something as simple as uncontrolled allergies to something as serious as a life-threatening aneurysm. 

Here we review the most common headache causes AND what the most concerning warning signs are that help you know when you should seek immediate care.

You never have to think about avoiding the hassle or going down the google rabbit hole again. Roots Health DPC makes health care simple and convenient for you and your family to just call or text your doctor.

The most common type of headaches is “tension-type” headaches.

Tension-Type headaches are most often caused by one of the following:

  • excessive caffeine intake
  • alcohol intake
  • vision problems

Correcting the underlying problem relieves these headaches.

When should I be concerned about a headache?

Headaches can be a sign of a life-threatening emergency. The following signs are reasons to seek care immediately:

  • It is the all-time worst headache ever
  • The headache is worst upon waking
  • There was loss of consciousness
  • Uncontrollable vomiting
  • Loss of vision

Patients at Roots Health DPC get the care they need when they need. You deserve to have high quality health care that you can rely on. Avoid the hassle of the traditional health care system. Enroll today. Space is limited.

Brain Health Matters

2023-06-12T14:05:04+00:00June 12th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Mental Health, Public Health|

Brain awareness JUNE 2023

Brain health matters… it helps to keep us sharp and staves off the effects of dementia. There are lots of great things you can do to keep your brain healthy and there has never been a better time to start than now!

Keeping Your Brain Strong ‍

Eating Healthy, Exercising Daily, Getting Plenty of Sleep, Paying Attention to Your Mental Health and Socializing with others are critical components to brain health. Today we are going to focus on the most important Tip for Brain Health: Continuing to Learn New Skills.

Your Mind Matters. Your Brain Health is critical to your Well-Being. Are you looking for a physician that cares for the Whole Person? At Roots Health we are changing the way health care is done.

Use it or Lose It.

Become a lifelong learner to keep your brain active and healthy. Engage in activities that stimulate your brain!

Every time you learn something new you build new connections between your brain cells and the more stimulated your brain is, the more active it becomes. Challenging the brain is key.

  • travel to new places
  • learn a new language
  • take a course
  • play a new game: puzzles, chess, workbooks
  • read a book
  • draw or paint
  • listen to new music
  • learn new recipes
  • play a musical instrument: piano is thought to engage both left and right brain at the highest level

More than ever, it’s important to take care of our minds in the same way we take care of our bodies. At Roots Health DPC, we help patients by prioritizing health and wellness so they can reach their goals in life. Limited space available. Join today.

Mental Health Awareness Month

2023-05-29T14:06:01+00:00May 29th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Mental Health, Uncategorized|

Is It Stress or Anxiety?

Mental Health Awareness Month

Everyone experiences stress, and sometimes that stress can feel overwhelming.

You may be at risk for an anxiety disorder if it feels like you can’t manage the stress and if the symptoms of your stress:

– Interfere with your everyday life.

– Cause you to avoid doing things.

– Seem to be always present.

Searching for a health care experience that is personalized, convenient, and comprehensive? Roots Health DPC has redefined the way health care is being delivered.

Practice Self-Care for your Mental Health: Build a toolbox full of healthy ways to cope

Simple, everyday actions:

–schedule quiet time for meditation, yoga, or reading

–spend a few minutes in nature, getting out to exercise, or playing a favorite song can help you feel grounded

–stick to a sleep routine to ensure enough sleep

–keep a journal

–connect with others in your community

Do you avoid going to the doctor because it’s a hassle? At Roots Health DPC we have made it simple. Our focus is on you. We provide the care you deserve without the hassle. Set up a complimentary session to meet Dr. Diaz and learn more.

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