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.

HDL vs. LDL

2025-09-02T09:10:21+00:00September 2nd, 2025|Cholesterol, Public Health|

September Is National Cholesterol Education Month: What You Need to Know

When was the last time you checked your cholesterol? If it’s been a while—or if you’ve never known your numbers—September is the perfect time to start.

High cholesterol often has no symptoms, yet it plays a major role in heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions. The good news? By understanding your cholesterol levels and taking steps to manage them, you can significantly improve your long-term health.

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that circulates in your blood. Not all cholesterol is the same:
  • LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): Often called “bad cholesterol” because high levels can build up in your arteries.
  • HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): Known as “good cholesterol” because it helps clear LDL from the bloodstream.

The key is balance. Too much LDL or too little HDL increases your risk of heart problems.

Prevention starts here—see how DPC supports heart health.

 

Why It Matters

When cholesterol levels are off, plaque can build up in your arteries. Over time, this raises your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Since high cholesterol doesn’t cause obvious symptoms, the only way to know your levels is through a blood test.

Why It Matters

When cholesterol levels are off, plaque can build up in your arteries. Over time, this raises your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Since high cholesterol doesn’t cause obvious symptoms, the only way to know your levels is through a blood test.

How Roots Health DPC Can Help

Managing cholesterol isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Roots Health DPC, we provide:
  • Personalized Screenings – More than just a number, we look at your overall risk profile.
  • Custom Plans – Tailored lifestyle recommendations, nutrition guidance, and—if needed—medications or supplements.
  • Ongoing Support – Regular follow-ups to keep you on track and adjust your plan as your needs change.

Take Charge of Your Heart Health This Month

Don’t wait for a problem to appear—prevention is powerful. By checking your cholesterol now, you’re taking a proactive step toward protecting your heart for years to come.

Let’s work together to keep your heart strong and healthy.

Start School Strong with DPC

2025-08-11T14:23:48+00:00August 11th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Public Health|

Back to School,

the Easy Way:

DPC Families Start the Year Strong

Backpacks are getting dusted off. Lunchboxes are reappearing. And kids? They’re bouncing between excitement and nerves.

It’s that time again—back-to-school season, and for most families, it comes with a checklist a mile long:

📝 School physicals

🩹 Updated vaccinations

😷 Coughs, colds, and lingering summer sniffles

🧠 A mental wellness and Routines reset

At Roots Health DPC, we’re here to make that list a little less overwhelming—and a lot more convenient.

Discover a better, family-centered way to do healthcare.

Last week, one mom from the practice called about her 8-year-old son who had a rash that wouldn’t go away. She was worried it might be something serious, so we got him in quickly. During the visit, as we were wrapping up the exam, and she hesitated for a second and said:

“Oh, shoot—I still need to schedule his school physical!”

Here’s the beauty of Direct Primary Care: she didn’t have to.

We just added the school physical right then and there—no second appointment, no waiting weeks to be seen, no juggling another calendar slot. She left with peace of mind, a healthy kid. The school physical form was completed…. and that was one more thing crossed off her list.

This is the kind of care families need—especially during busy seasons.

With DPC, you get:

  • Same or next-day appointments
  • No rushed visits—we handle everything you need in one stop
  • Care that fits into your life, not the other way around

Whatvere your healthcare needs… a school physical, stitches, a mental health check-in before the school year starts, or you just want to text your doctor with a quick question — you’re in the right place.

We’re here to partner with you to make this school year the healthiest one yet.

Want to experience a better way to get care for your family?

Travel Smarter with DPC

2025-07-28T14:40:26+00:00July 28th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Public Health|

Jet Lag, Germs & Global Travel: Why International Trips Can Hit Hard

(And How to Travel Smarter with DPC)

Ever notice how a “trip of a lifetime” abroad can leave you feeling… totally wrecked?

The jet lag is brutal. Your stomach’s off. You’re not sure if the coffee is helping or hurting. And somewhere between adjusting to local time and trying to avoid sunburned, you realize: traveling internationally is no joke for your body.

But most people think the only fix is to just “push through.”

That’s where I come in.

Your Body Has a Clock—And Travel Throws It Off

Every time you cross multiple time zones, your circadian rhythm gets disrupted. That’s the internal clock that governs everything from sleep and energy to digestion and mood. And when it’s off, your entire system has to scramble to recalibrate.

So how do we fix it faster?

🕶️ Light exposure – Morning light helps reset your internal clock to your new location. Get outside within the first hour of waking. Avoid bright screens at night to keep melatonin levels normal.

☕ Caffeine – Yes, you can use it—but strategically. Use caffeine in the morning at your destination to stay alert. Skip it after 2 PM local time so you’re not sabotaging your sleep.

💊 Melatonin – This is your body’s “sleep cue.” I usually recommend 0.5 to 3 mg about 30 minutes before your new bedtime for a few nights once you arrive. It helps re-sync your rhythm without grogginess.

🛫 Start adjusting before you go – If possible, shift your bedtime and wake time 1–2 hours toward your destination’s time zone a few days before your trip.

Travel Healthy with a Doctor Who Supports YOU.

But Wait, What About the Other Kind of Travel Prep…

When patients tell me they’re traveling internationally, I always ask:

“Have you checked your destination’s vaccine and medication requirements yet?”

Cue blank stares.

Because let’s be honest, the CDC travel site is not user-friendly. It feels like you need a PhD in epidemiology just to figure out if you need a typhoid shot, malaria meds, or a yellow fever card.

The reality?

Getting it right matters.

You don’t want to realize at the airport that you needed proof of a vaccine—or worse, wind up in a remote area without the meds to prevent a totally avoidable illness.

DPC Makes Travel Simpler, Safer, and Smarter

When you’re in my practice, you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you’re heading to Italy or Indonesia, we walk through it together:

✅ I decode the CDC guidance for your destination

✅ We plan circadian rhythm strategies to fight jet lag

✅ You get the right vaccines, refills, and travel meds on time

✅ And you get peace of mind knowing your doctor travels with you (virtually, of course)

Travel-Ready Care Starts Before You Pack

Don’t wait until you’re already on a plane with the wrong meds and no plan for sleep.

We’re not full yet—but we’re getting close. If you’ve got international travel coming up, now’s the time to join the practice and prep like a pro.

Get travel-ready care without the guesswork

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.

High Blood pressure

2025-05-26T14:09:15+00:00May 26th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

Why Blood Pressure Matters

Blood pressure is critical to our overall health as it affects all the organs of our body. When we leave high blood pressure unchecked… it can lead to stroke, heart disease, and kidney disease to name a few. Avoiding complications from high blood pressure is simple once we understand what it is and how to manage it.

Looking for a holistic approach for health care?

 

What Numbers Are Too High?

Blood pressure measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart is contracting and pumping (systolic) and the measurement when your heart is relaxed and filling (diastolic). An optimal reading is less than 140/90 mmHg and sometimes lower if you have other conditions.

KNOW YOUR NUMBERS

What Causes High Blood Pressure Readings?

Blood pressure can fluctuate based on several factors including diet, stress, sleep, lifestyle, and exercise. It can also be affected by underlying medical conditions that you may not even know you have (kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, and heart/lung conditions to name a few). The key is to check your blood pressure and not ignore a high reading.

Blood pressure can be lowered without medication. Addressing underlying disease and optimizing wellness can dramatically lower your blood pressure and increase the length of your life.

Avoid high blood pressure. Get great care.

Spot Skin Cancer Early

2025-05-19T12:44:35+00:00May 19th, 2025|Public Health, Skin Cancer|

Skin Changes That Matter

What are the skin changes you shouldn’t ignore? Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Doing a skin self-exam and knowing the warning signs are for melanoma are key. Increase your chances of spotting skin cancer early.

How to perform a skin self-exam?

Examine your body in a full-length mirror-Examine your body front and back in a mirror, then look at the right and left sides with your arms raised.

Look at your underarms, forearms, and palms-Bend your elbows and look carefully at your forearms, underarms, and palms.

Look at your legs, between toes, and soles of your feet-Look at the backs of your legs and feet, the spaces between your toes, and the soles of your feet.

Use a hand mirror to examine your neck and scalp-Examine the back of your neck and scalp with a hand mirror. Part your hair for a closer look at your scalp.

If you see skin changes, say something to your doctor.

Remember the “ABCDE rule”

Note changes in moles or birthmarks that can be warning signs of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

  • A- Asymmetry where one half looks different from the other
  • B- Borders of the mole that are irregular or not sharply demarcated
  • C- Color is varied from one area to another
  • D- Diameter over 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser)
  • E- Evolving or changing in size shape or color

Are you looking for a physician that you know and trust?

Better Sleep Month

2025-05-12T13:10:26+00:00May 12th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health, Sleep|

The Path to Restful Sleep

May is Better Sleep Month, highlighting the importance of quality rest and how poor sleep can impact overall health. Many adults struggle with insomnia and restless nights. Sometimes sleeplessness isn’t just about stress or a busy schedule.

The Story: From Sleepless Nights to Restful Sleep

One of my favorite patients, a 42-year-old marketing executive and busy mom, was struggling with poor sleep… for years. She was frustrated and running out of options. At her intake visit it was revealed that she would toss and turn for hours, waking up exhausted and irritable. Over-the-counter sleep aids worked a little, but the grogginess and dependence on them weren’t sustainable.

We took a comprehensive approach to her sleep struggles. This was different from her previous experience with quick visits and a perscription for a pill as the solution.

See how our personalized model goes beyond the quick fix.

 

The Root Cause: More Than Just Stress

After a thorough evaluation and in-depth conversation, we uncovered a few key factors contributing to her insomnia:

  1. Lifestyle Habits: Late-night screen time and caffeine intake were interfering with her sleep cycle.
  2. Underlying Health Condition: Bloodwork revealed an undiagnosed thyroid imbalance, which can significantly impact sleep quality.
  3. Medication side effects: This patient was taking 2 different types of medication (one for her asthma and on for her ADHD) that were contributing to her poor sleep.

The Solution: A Personalized Sleep Plan

Instead of simply prescribing a sleep aid, we focused on long-term solutions:

  1. Lifestyle Adjustments: We guided this mom what works for her kids… routine. We created a consistent bedtime routine, reducing blue light exposure before bed, and adjusting her diet to support sleep.
  2. Medical Support: Treating her thyroid condition helped stabilize her energy levels, naturally improving her ability to sleep. We adjusted her asthma and ADHD meds to avoid side effects in the evening.
  3. Stress Management: With mindfulness techniques and small habit changes, we helped her get to a place of peace and unwind before bed, which led to deeper more restorative sleep.

 

The Results: Sleeping Better, Feeling Better

Within weeks, she noticed significant improvement—she fell asleep faster, stayed asleep longer, and woke up feeling refreshed. She finally had the energy and mental clarity to tackle her busy days without relying on excess caffeine and sheer willpower.

Struggling with Sleep? Let’s Find a Solution Together.

If you’re experiencing persistent insomnia, or daytime fatigue, it might be time to take a closer look at the underlying causes. At our Direct Primary Care practice, we offer personalized, comprehensive care to help you get to the root of your health concerns—so you can finally sleep soundly.

Ready for a Personalized Care?

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!

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month

2025-04-14T21:54:03+00:00April 14th, 2025|Community, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

Navigating the Path to Relief

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) should not slow you down. At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we help patients manage symptoms through an individualized approach and get them back to enjoying life.

IBS and Its Impact

IBS affects the large intestine causing a myriad of symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. These effects can be disruptive to daily life, making it difficult to enjoy meals, social activities, and work. The complexity of IBS, combined with its varied symptoms, can make it overwhelming for those newly diagnosed. But the good news is, with the right support, IBS can be effectively managed.

At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we understand that no two cases of IBS are the same. That’s why we offer a personalized, patient-centered approach to treatment. Whether you’re dealing with constant bloating, unpredictable bowel movements, or the stress that comes with the diagnosis… we are here to guide you toward relief.

Identify triggers and develop a plan that works.

 

Managing IBS Symptoms

We work closely with patients to create tailored care plans that address all aspects of the condition, including ensuring the correct diagnosis is made. From managing diet and lifestyle changes to exploring treatments that help alleviate symptoms, we help patients navigate the complexities of their diagnosis in a supportive, empathetic environment.

We treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our patients find comfort in knowing they have access to ongoing support and a physician that listens and responds to their unique needs.

A Personalized Approach to IBS Treatment

At Roots Health DPC we provide the time and attention necessary to get a solution that works. Unlike traditional healthcare settings, where time with your physician is often limited, our approach allows for in-depth discussions about your health, lifestyle, and treatment options. We can help you identify triggers, make dietary adjustments, and explore strategies to manage stress—all tailored to your specific needs.

We offer comprehensive support that empowers you to take control of your health.

Find a better way to Navigate Health Care

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