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Menopause

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Menopause
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Menopause
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Menopause

Menopause (Episode 91, To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow)

Host Dr. Jim Morrow addressed the topic of menopause on this episode of To Your Health. He clarified what qualifies as menopause, how it’s diagnosed, the range of symptoms, potential treatments such as hormone replacement therapy, the impact on sleep, bone health, heart health, and more.

To Your Health is brought to you by Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine), which brings the care back to healthcare.

About Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine)

Village Medical, formerly Morrow Family Medicine, is an award-winning, state-of-the-art family practice with offices in Cumming and Milton, Georgia. The practice combines healthcare information technology with old-fashioned care to provide the type of care that many are in search of today. Two physicians, three physician assistants and two nurse practitioners are supported by a knowledgeable and friendly staff to make your visit to Village Medical one that will remind you of the way healthcare should be.  At Village Medical, we like to say we are “bringing the care back to healthcare!”  The practice has been named the “Best of Forsyth” in Family Medicine in all five years of the award, is a three-time consecutive winner of the “Best of North Atlanta” by readers of Appen Media, and the 2019 winner of “Best of Life” in North Fulton County.

Village Medical offers a comprehensive suite of primary care services including preventative care, treatment for illness and injury, and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease. Atlanta-area patients can learn more about the practice here.

Dr. Jim Morrow, Village Medical, and Host of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow

Covid-19 misconceptionsDr. Jim Morrow is the founder of Morrow Family Medicine. He has been a trailblazer and evangelist in healthcare information technology, was named Physician IT Leader of the Year by HIMSS, a HIMSS Davies Award Winner, the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Steve Bloom Award Winner as Entrepreneur of the Year and he received a Phoenix Award as Community Leader of the Year from the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.  He is married to Peggie Morrow and together they founded the Forsyth BYOT Benefit, a charity in Forsyth County to support students in need of technology and devices. They have two Goldendoodles, a gaggle of grandchildren and enjoy life on and around Lake Lanier.

Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter

The complete show archive of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow addresses a wide range of health and wellness topics.

Dr. Morrow’s Show Notes

What is menopause?

  • Menopause is when a person’s menstrual periods permanently end. 
  • Perimenopause is the term for the 3 to 5 years around the time of menopause and before your final period. During this time, people experience fewer periods that are further apart.

When does menopause occur?

  • The timing of actual menopause is different for each person. 
    • The average age for a person to have their last period is about 51. 
      • But it’s normal for menopause to occur any time from age 40 to 59. 
      • A person often goes through menopause at about the same age as their mother.
  • You may stop having periods early (before age 40). 
    • If so, your doctor can do a blood test to see if you’re actually going through menopause. 
      • If you’re not, the doctor will look for another cause for your missed periods.
  • Menopause is a gradual process that can take several years. 
    • You’re not really through menopause until you haven’t had a period for 12 months. 
      • (During this time, keep using birth control if you don’t want to become pregnant.)
  • People who have both ovaries removed during surgery will go through “surgical menopause” at the time of their surgery. 
    • If the uterus is taken out but the ovaries are not, a person will stop having periods, but they will not go through surgical menopause.

What causes menopause?

  • Menopause is what happens when your ovaries stop producing the hormones that control menstruation. 
    • These hormones are estrogen and progesterone. 
    • Without these hormones, your body will no longer release an egg each month.

How is menopause diagnosed?

  • If you believe you are going through menopause and have concerns, talk to your doctor. 
    • Menopause does not require an official diagnosis unless you want to confirm it. 
      • Your doctor may order a blood test to check your hormone levels. 
      • They will check for estrogen as well as a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

Can menopause be prevented or avoided?

  • Menopause cannot be prevented or avoided.

Symptoms of menopause

  • Symptoms of menopause vary. 
    • Some people just stop having periods. 
      • Most people experience some symptoms, such as the following:
        • A change in your menstrual cycle.
          • This is one of the first signs of nearing menopause. You may skip periods or they may occur closer together. Your flow may be lighter or heavier than usual.
        • Hot flashes.
          • Hot flashes are the most common symptom of menopause. When you have a hot flash, you’ll feel warm from your chest to your head. These often happen in wave-like sensations. Your skin may turn red and you may sweat. You may feel sick to your stomach and dizzy. You may also have a headache and feel like your heart is beating very fast and hard.
        • Vaginal dryness.
          • During and after menopause, the skin of your vagina and vulva (the area around your vagina) becomes thinner. Your vagina also loses its ability to produce as much lubrication (wetness) during sexual arousal. These changes can lead to pain during sex. You may need to help supplement vaginal moisture to make sex less painful. You can use an over-the-counter water-based sexual lubricant (such as K-Y Jelly). Or you can use moisturizers for the vaginal area (such as Vagisil). You can also talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of using prescription estrogen cream for vaginal changes.
        • Urinary tract problems
          • You’re more likely to have bladder and urinary tract infections during and after menopause. Talk to your doctor if you have to go to the bathroom more often or feel an urgent need to urinate. Also let your doctor know if you feel a burning sensation when urinating or are not able to urinate.
        • Headaches, night sweats, trouble sleeping, and tiredness. 
          • As you’re going through menopause, you may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Night sweats may wake you up. You may not get enough rapid eye movement (REM) sleep (the stage of sleep during which you dream). A lack of REM sleep may make you feel tired, moody, and stressed out.
        • Weight gain
          • Many people gain weight during menopause. A healthy diet and exercising most, if not all, days of the week will help keep you fit.
  • Talk to your doctor if you have:
    • A change in your monthly cycle.
    • Heavy bleeding.
    • Bleeding that lasts longer than usual.
    • Bleeding more often than every 3 weeks.
    • Bleeding after sexual intercourse.
    • Any blood spotting between periods.

Does menopause have emotional symptoms?

  • Many people experience emotional symptoms during menopause.
    • These symptoms may include sadness, anxiety, and mood swings. 
    • For some people, symptoms can be severe. 
      • If you find that you’re having emotional problems, talk to your family doctor.

Menopause treatment

  • There isn’t a set treatment for menopause. 
    • There are ways to manage some of its symptoms. 
    • Talk to your doctor if you are struggling with hot flashes, if sex is painful, or if your emotions seem unbalanced.

What is hormone replacement therapy?

  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment for menopause symptoms. 
    • It involves taking synthetic hormones (which are made in a laboratory rather than by the body). 
    • HRT can involve taking estrogen alone or estrogen combined with another hormone, progestin. 
    • Some people have found that HRT can relieve menopause symptoms. 
    • These symptoms include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and some urinary problems. 
    • However, HRT is not for everyone. 
      • Recent studies suggest that for most people, the risks of using HRT may outweigh the benefits. 
      • Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of HRT.

Are other treatments available?

  • Yes, other medicines may help ease some menopausal symptoms. 
    • These include estrogen cream, low-dose antidepressants, soy products, and certain herbal supplements. 
      • Discuss these options with your doctor.

What are phytoestrogens?

  • Phytoestrogens are plant-based substances found in some cereals, vegetables, beans and other legumes, and herbs. 
    • They may work in the body like a weak form of estrogen. 
      • Researchers are studying whether phytoestrogens can be used to relieve some symptoms of menopause. 
      • They are also studying the side effects caused by these substances. 
      • Many soy products are good sources of phytoestrogens. 
      • These include tofu, soymilk, and soy nuts. 
        • Some studies indicate that soy supplements may reduce hot flashes after menopause.
  • However, the results haven’t been consistent. 
    • There is not enough scientific evidence to recommend the use of herbs that contain phytoestrogens to treat symptoms of menopause. 
      • This is also true of pills and creams made with these herbs. 
      • In addition, not enough is known about the risks of using these products. 
      • Herbs and supplements are not regulated like medicines. 
        • Some herbs and supplements can be harmful when combined with certain medicines. 
        • If you’re considering using any natural or herbal products to ease your symptoms, talk to your doctor first.

Living with menopause

    • Living with menopause is easier for some people than others. 
      • It depends on the severity of your symptoms. 
      • Use these tips to help ease symptoms and to learn more about how to deal with menopause.
  • Should I avoid certain foods or drinks during menopause?
        • If you have hot flashes, you may want to avoid spicy or hot foods and drinks. 
        • These can trigger hot flashes. 
          • Alcohol can trigger hot flashes, too. 
          • It also interferes with bone growth and calcium absorption. 
          • People who are going through menopause should avoid or limit alcohol.
  • Can my diet affect how well I sleep?
      • The following tips can help reduce sleep problems:
        • Eat regular meals at regular times.
        • Avoid late-night meals and heavy late-night snacks.
        • Limit caffeine, which is found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and cola drinks. 
          • Caffeine stays in the bloodstream for up to 6 hours and can interfere with sleep.
        • Avoid alcohol. 
          • It may make you feel sleepy, but it actually affects the cycle of REM and non-REM sleep. 
          • This may cause you to wake up throughout the night.

Help for hot flashes

  • Turn your thermostat down. Sleep in a cool room.
  • Dress in layers, so you can remove clothing when you get too warm.
  • Wear cotton and other natural fabrics that “breathe” so you don’t get overheated. Use cotton sheets on your bed.
  • Drink cool water or other beverages when a hot flash starts.
  • Get plenty of exercise.
  • Find out what triggers your hot flashes and avoid them. Spicy foods, alcohol, tight clothing, and hot, humid weather are some common triggers.

How does menopause affect bone health?

  • The older a person is, the greater their risk of osteoporosis. 
    • A person’s risk becomes even greater when they go through menopause. 
    • When your estrogen level decreases during menopause, you lose more bone than your body can replace. 
    • This makes your bones weaker and more likely to break. 
    • To keep your bones strong, it’s important to get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. 
    • These help your body absorb calcium. 
    • Your doctor can suggest ways to get more calcium through food, drink, and, possibly, a calcium supplement. 
    • They may also suggest that you take a vitamin D supplement to help your body process calcium. 
    • Ask your doctor what amount of daily calcium and vitamin D is right for you.

How does menopause affect heart health?

  • People are more likely to develop heart disease after menopause. 
    • Lower estrogen levels may be part of the cause. 
    • It also could be that other health issues that are more common as people get older. 
      • These include gaining weight, becoming less active, and developing high blood pressure or diabetes. 
      • You can reduce your risk of these health problems by eating a variety of healthy, nutrient-rich foods. 
      • It also helps to stay active and maintain an appropriate weight.

Previous experience with hormone replacement and how science continues to change the way we practice.

Tremors

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Tremors
North Fulton Studio
Tremors
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Tremors

Tremors (Episode 90, To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow)

On this episode of To Your Health, Dr. Jim Morrow covers tremors, the difference between benign essential tremors and Parkinson’s Disease, how they are diagnosed, potential causes, what the doctor might do for treatment, and much more.

To Your Health is brought to you by Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine), which brings the care back to healthcare.

About Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine)

Village Medical, formerly Morrow Family Medicine, is an award-winning, state-of-the-art family practice with offices in Cumming and Milton, Georgia. The practice combines healthcare information technology with old-fashioned care to provide the type of care that many are in search of today. Two physicians, three physician assistants and two nurse practitioners are supported by a knowledgeable and friendly staff to make your visit to Village Medical one that will remind you of the way healthcare should be.  At Village Medical, we like to say we are “bringing the care back to healthcare!”  The practice has been named the “Best of Forsyth” in Family Medicine in all five years of the award, is a three-time consecutive winner of the “Best of North Atlanta” by readers of Appen Media, and the 2019 winner of “Best of Life” in North Fulton County.

Village Medical offers a comprehensive suite of primary care services including preventative care, treatment for illness and injury, and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease. Atlanta-area patients can learn more about the practice here.

Dr. Jim Morrow, Village Medical, and Host of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow

Covid-19 misconceptionsDr. Jim Morrow is the founder of Morrow Family Medicine. He has been a trailblazer and evangelist in healthcare information technology, was named Physician IT Leader of the Year by HIMSS, a HIMSS Davies Award Winner, the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Steve Bloom Award Winner as Entrepreneur of the Year and he received a Phoenix Award as Community Leader of the Year from the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.  He is married to Peggie Morrow and together they founded the Forsyth BYOT Benefit, a charity in Forsyth County to support students in need of technology and devices. They have two Goldendoodles, a gaggle of grandchildren and enjoy life on and around Lake Lanier.

Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter

The complete show archive of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow addresses a wide range of health and wellness topics.

Dr. Morrow’s Show Notes

Types of Tremors

  • Essential tremor (ET) is at least eight times more common than Parkinson’s disease (PD).
  • There are many differences in the presentation, course, and treatment of ET and PD;
    • however, these differences are not always recognized by healthcare professionals and misdiagnoses are common
    • it has been suggested that up to 20 percent of patients with ET may develop PD,
      • but whether ET is a risk factor for PD remains a controversial issue

Diagnosis

  • At this time, there are no tests that can definitively diagnose either ET or PD and it is not uncommon to have the two mistaken for each other.
  • The diagnosis is based on a complete medical/symptom, family and medication history and an examination by a physician,
  • Obtaining a handwriting sample may be helpful in making an accurate diagnosis;
    • in ET handwriting is generally large and tremulous,
    • whereas in PD, micrographia (very small handwriting) is common.
    • DaTscan, a single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan,
      • which measures dopamine uptake, has been approved as a diagnostic aid to help physicians differentiate between ET and parkinsonian tremor.
      • Other imaging techniques are under investigation to determine their utility in differentiating ET and PD.
      • An accurate diagnosis is critical as the treatment regimen is very different for the two disorders.

Differentiating ET and PD

  • Usually ET starts as a low- amplitude tremor but can gradually increase to a coarse, disabling tremor.
    • As ET progresses, tremor frequency (number of repetitions per second) may decrease;
      • however, tremor amplitude (magnitude/strength) may increase.
      • Increased amplitude is associated with a decreased ability to manage fine motor tasks.
      • The amplitude varies up to 23 percent throughout the day, but the frequency usually does not change during the course of the disease.2
    • ET generally presents bilaterally and is primarily seen during action,
      • such as when writing or eating, or when holding a posture, for example, when holding an object against gravity.
      • On the other hand, parkinsonian tremor most often presents unilaterally and later progresses to include both sides of the body.
      • PD tremor most commonly occurs at rest,
        • when the body part is relaxed and not in use,
        • but can also be seen in the postural position, often referred to as reemergent tremor.3
      • ET most commonly affects the
        • hands, legs, head, and voice, and tremor is the primary symptom of ET.
        • In PD, the cardinal symptoms include bradykinesia, rigidity, tremor, and gait/balance issues.
        • It is important to note that although it occurs in the majority, tremor does not have to be present to make a diagnosis of PD.
        • The tremor of PD most generally occurs in the upper/lower extremities and the chin/jaw and generally does not affect the head or voice.
      • ET most commonly onsets during middle age,
        • but can occur at any time in the lifespan, even in childhood.
        • The progression of ET can be variable.
        • In some patients ET remains mild throughout the lifespan and does not result in significant disability;
          • however, in others ET progresses and can cause significant disability,
            • making many daily activities very difficult or impossible to complete.
            • On the other hand, the average age of onset of PD is 60 years although it may be much later and about 10 percent present prior to the age of 40 years.
            • PD is a progressive disorder with virtually all patients having increased disability over time.
          • Although the gene accounting for the majority of ET patients has not been identified,
            • ET is an autosomal dominant disorder with greater than 50 percent of patients reporting a family history of tremor.
              • It is not uncommon to have a patient report multiple family members from several generations that have been affected by tremor.
              • PD is the result of a loss of dopamine in the substantia nigra;
                • however, the cause of PD is currently unknown and it is suspected that it may be a combination of a genetic predisposition and environmental influences.
                • A family history of PD is reported in less than 20 percent of patients.
              • Both ET and PD are affected by stress, anxiety and emotion and it is not uncommon to see an increase in tremor under stressful conditions.

 

What is essential tremor?

  • So, there different kinds of tremor…
    • Many things can cause tremor.
    • Not all tremors are essential tremors.
    • For example,
      • Parkinson’s disease causes tremor that you might notice when your hands are resting in your lap or at the sides of your body.
      • A stroke can cause tremor that gets worse when you reach for something.
      • Thyroid problems or low blood sugar can cause mild tremor.
      • Tremor can be caused by some medicines.
        • These include
          • heart medicines,
          • decongestants,
          • medicines for breathing problems,
          • and tricyclic antidepressants.
          • Drinks that contain caffeine also may cause a tremor.

How is essential tremor diagnosed?

  • Your doctor will probably perform an exam
    • and tests to look for possible causes of your tremor.
    • These tests rule out other causes and can include
    • a neurological exam,
    • blood and urine tests,
    • and physical performance tests.
    • If they don’t find another cause of your tremor,
      • you may be diagnosed with essential tremor.
      • There is no specific test for essential tremor.

Can essential tremor be prevented or avoided?

  • Doctors don’t know exactly what causes essential tremor,
    • so, it can’t be prevented.
  • If your doctor determines your tremor is caused by medicine or caffeine,
    • you may be able to avoid essential tremor in the future by avoiding those substances.

Essential tremor treatment

  • The goal in treating essential tremor is to provide symptom relief that can improve quality of life.
    • Mild tremors may not need treatment.
    • If your essential tremor interferes with your ability to function or bothers you,
    • there are some treatments that could help.
    • These include medicine, focused ultrasound, or deep brain stimulation.
      • Medicine–
        • Your doctor might suggest oral medicines to help decrease the severity of your tremor.
        • These could include
        • beta blockers,
        • anti-seizure medicines,
        • tranquilizers,
        • or Botox injections.
      • Therapy–
        • Physical therapy can help you improve your muscle strength, control, and coordination.
        • Occupational therapy can help you make modifications to reduce the effects of tremors,
          • such as using heavier glasses to drink out of.
        • Surgery–
          • If your tremor is very disabling and you haven’t had good results with medicine,
            • you could qualify for surgery.
            • Usually this is deep brain stimulation (DBS).
            • Electrodes are implanted into the area of your brain that coordinates muscle control

Living with essential tremor

  • Lifestyle changes are often recommended to prevent the tremor from getting worse.
    • Your doctor will ask you to avoid caffeine, cold medicines, and certain other medicines if they seem to make your tremor worse.
    • These medicines won’t make your tremor go away.
    • However, the medicine may control the tremor enough to allow you to do normal activities without frustration or embarrassment.
    • Symptoms do tend to get worse over time.
      • Eventually you might start having trouble with daily functions, including
        • Holding a glass of liquid without spilling
        • Eating normally
        • Putting on makeup or shaving
        • Talking, if it affects your tongue or voice box

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Legislation in Georgia, with Representative Todd Jones, Georgia House District 25

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Representative Todd Jones
North Fulton Studio
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Legislation in Georgia, with Representative Todd Jones, Georgia House District 25
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Representative Todd Jones

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Legislation in Georgia, with Representative Todd Jones, Georgia House District 25 (Episode 86, To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow)

Representative Todd Jones, Georgia House District 25, was Dr. Morrow’s guest on this episode of To Your Health. Rep. Jones discussed the state of mental health care in Georgia, HB 1013, the “Mental Health Parity Act,” which passed in 2022, as well as House Bill 520, which is in Senate committee currently and builds on HB 1013. He also discussed telemedicine, the state’s efforts in workforce development to bring more mental health providers to the state, the mental health hotline, 988, advice for caregivers, and much more.

You can find a video of their conversation here.

To Your Health is brought to you by Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine), a “New Way to Well.” The show is produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Representative Todd Jones, Georgia House District 25

Representative Todd Jones, House District 25

Representative Todd Jones represents the citizens of House District 25, which encompasses South Forsyth and North Fulton Counties. He was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives on November 8, 2016, and sworn into office on January 9, 2017. Todd started his third term representing District 25 on January 11, 2021.

Rep. Jones serves as the chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Education and as the vice chairman of the Science & Technology Committee. Further, Todd serves as a member of the Budget & Fiscal Affairs Oversight, Code Revision, Economic Development & Tourism, Education, Industry & Labor and Judiciary committees.  He also serves on the Special Committee on Access to Quality Health Care.

Todd’s business experience has focused on triple-bottom line companies that focus on social, environmental, and financial impacts. From changing K-12 education worldwide to launching energy projects in the developing world to deploying EHS software, each company created accretive, positive return on investment. During his time as a business executive, he has worked with companies like Johnson Controls, Goldman Sachs, Goodyear, Cardinal Health, John Deere, Walgreens, Morgan Stanley and Cargill.

In 2010, Todd was named “Co-Volunteer of the Year” by the Forsyth County Board of Education. He has also served on a variety of community executive boards including the SPES Dads Club and SFHS Touchdown Club.

Todd holds a Juris Doctor (1994) and Bachelor of Administration in Finance (1989) from the University of Florida(UF). Todd served as his fraternity’s president and treasurer, UF student senator and Greek Council student representative. He was named to the “University’s Who’s Who “at UF.

As an alumnus, Todd has sat on his fraternity’s board of directors, delivered guest lectures at the UF business, law and political science schools, and led a variety of alumni activities.

Todd has been married to his high school sweetheart, Tracey Jones, for more than 25 years. Tracey and Todd have three sons and one daughter. The family has called South Forsyth County home for more than 14 years.

Website | Facebook | LinkedIn 

Village Medical

At Village Medical, your relationship with your primary care provider is the foundation to your health. Their doctors and staff partner with you to understand your needs, and work together to focus not just on treatment, but also education and preventative care.

They combine the tools, technology and people needed to help create healthier, happier patients. More connected care means more complete care.

Village Medical clinics located at Walgreens pharmacies are bringing their vision of exceptional and compassionate primary care even closer to you. With locations throughout the United States, they’re in your neighborhood. And that network means you can visit a doctor at any of their locations, and they’ll have your records available.

With Village Medical at Home, they provide at-home visits designed to give eligible patients the attention they need, in a way that’s best for them and their caregivers.

With your caring team at Village Medical, it’s easy and convenient to stay on top of your health. Maybe more than ever before. Village Medical. The New Way to Well.

Company website | Facebook | Instagram

Dr. Jim Morrow, Village Medical, and Host of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow

Covid-19 misconceptionsDr. Jim Morrow is the founder of Morrow Family Medicine, now part of the Village Medical family of practices. He has been a trailblazer and evangelist in healthcare information technology, was named Physician IT Leader of the Year by HIMSS, a HIMSS Davies Award Winner, the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Steve Bloom Award Winner as Entrepreneur of the Year and he received a Phoenix Award as Community Leader of the Year from the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.  He is married to Peggie Morrow and together they founded the Forsyth BYOT Benefit, a charity in Forsyth County to support students in need of technology and devices. They have two Goldendoodles, a gaggle of grandchildren and enjoy life on and around Lake Lanier.

Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter

The complete show archive of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow addresses a wide range of health and wellness topics.

Fatty Liver Disease

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Fatty Liver Disease
North Fulton Studio
Fatty Liver Disease
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Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty Liver Disease (Episode 88, To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow)

On this episode of To Your Health, Dr. Jim Morrow addressed fatty liver disease, which he says is fairly common. He explained what the liver does, what the disease is, and how it manifests itself. Dr. Morrow also covered the difference between alcohol-induced and non-alcohol related fatty liver disease, as well as its causes, diagnosis and prognosis, and more.

To Your Health is brought to you by Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine), which brings the care back to healthcare.

About Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine)

Village Medical, formerly Morrow Family Medicine, is an award-winning, state-of-the-art family practice with offices in Cumming and Milton, Georgia. The practice combines healthcare information technology with old-fashioned care to provide the type of care that many are in search of today. Two physicians, three physician assistants and two nurse practitioners are supported by a knowledgeable and friendly staff to make your visit to Village Medical one that will remind you of the way healthcare should be.  At Village Medical, we like to say we are “bringing the care back to healthcare!”  The practice has been named the “Best of Forsyth” in Family Medicine in all five years of the award, is a three-time consecutive winner of the “Best of North Atlanta” by readers of Appen Media, and the 2019 winner of “Best of Life” in North Fulton County.

Village Medical offers a comprehensive suite of primary care services including preventative care, treatment for illness and injury, and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease. Atlanta-area patients can learn more about the practice here.

Dr. Jim Morrow, Village Medical, and Host of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow

Covid-19 misconceptionsDr. Jim Morrow is the founder of Morrow Family Medicine. He has been a trailblazer and evangelist in healthcare information technology, was named Physician IT Leader of the Year by HIMSS, a HIMSS Davies Award Winner, the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Steve Bloom Award Winner as Entrepreneur of the Year and he received a Phoenix Award as Community Leader of the Year from the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.  He is married to Peggie Morrow and together they founded the Forsyth BYOT Benefit, a charity in Forsyth County to support students in need of technology and devices. They have two Goldendoodles, a gaggle of grandchildren and enjoy life on and around Lake Lanier.

Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter

The complete show archive of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow addresses a wide range of health and wellness topics.

Dr. Morrow’s Show Notes

FATTY LIVER DISEASE

What is the liver’s function?

Your liver is an essential organ with multiple life-supporting functions. The liver:

  • Produces bile, which helps with digestion.
  • Makes proteins for the body.
  • Stores iron.
  • Converts nutrients into energy.
  • Creates substances that help your blood clot (stick together to heal wounds).
  • Helps you resist infections by making immune factors and removing bacteria and toxins (substances that can harm your body) from your blood.

What is fatty liver disease?

  • Fatty liver disease (steatosis) is a common condition caused by having too much fat build up in your liver.
    • A healthy liver contains a small amount of fat.
    • It becomes a problem when fat reaches 5% to 10% of your liver’s weight.

Why is fatty liver disease bad?

  • In most cases, fatty liver disease doesn’t cause any serious problems or prevent your liver from functioning normally.
    • But for 7% to 30% of people with the condition, fatty liver disease gets worse over time.
    • It progresses through three stages:
      • Your liver becomes inflamed (swollen), which damages its tissue. This stage is called steatohepatitis.
      • Scar tissue forms where your liver is damaged. This process is called fibrosis.
      • Extensive scar tissue replaces healthy tissue. At this point, you have cirrhosis of the liver.

Cirrhosis of the liver

  • Cirrhosis of the liver is a result of severe damage to the liver.
    • The hard scar tissue that replaces healthy liver tissue slows down the liver’s functioning.
    • Eventually, it can block liver function entirely.
    • Cirrhosis can lead to liver failure and liver cancer.

What are the forms of fatty liver disease?

  • There are two main forms of fatty liver disease:
    • Alcohol-induced fatty liver disease
      • Alcohol-induced fatty liver disease is caused by regular alcohol consumption.
      • About 5% of people in the U.S. have this form of liver disease.
    • Non-alcohol related fatty liver disease
      • Non-alcohol related fatty liver disease (NAFLD) isn’t related to alcohol consumption.
        • The condition affects one in three adults and one in 10 children in the United States.
        • Researchers haven’t found the exact cause of non-alcohol related fatty liver disease.
        • Several factors, such as obesity and diabetes, can increase your risk.

SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES

Who gets fatty liver disease?

  • You have a greater chance of developing fatty liver disease if you:
    • Are of Hispanic or Asian descent.
    • Have completed menopause (your periods have stopped).
    • Have obesity with a high level of belly fat.
    • Have high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol.
    • Have obstructive sleep apnea (a blocked airway that causes breathing to stop and start during sleep).

What causes fatty liver disease?

  • Some people get fatty liver disease without having any pre-existing conditions.
    • But these risk factors make you more likely to develop it:
      • Having overweight/obesity.
      • Having Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance.
      • Having metabolic syndrome
        • (insulin resistance,
        • high blood pressure,
        • high cholesterol
        • and high triglyceride levels).
      • Taking certain prescription medications,
        • such as amiodarone, diltiazem, tamoxifen or steroids.

What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?

  • People with fatty liver disease often have no symptoms until the disease progresses to cirrhosis of the liver.
    • If you do have symptoms, they may include:
      • Abdominal pain or a feeling of fullness in the upper right side of the abdomen (belly).
      • Nausea, loss of appetite or weight loss.
      • Yellowish skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice).
      • Swollen abdomen and legs (edema).
      • Extreme tiredness or mental confusion.

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS

How is fatty liver disease diagnosed?

  • Because this condition often has no symptoms, your doctor may be the first one to spot it.
    • Higher levels of liver enzymes (elevated liver enzymes) that turn up on a blood test for other conditions may raise a red flag.
    • Elevated liver enzymes are a sign your liver is injured.
    • To make a diagnosis, your doctor may order:
      • Ultrasound or computed tomography (CT scan) to get a picture of the liver.
      • Liver biopsy (tissue sample) to determine how far advanced liver disease has progressed.
      • FibroScan, a specialized ultrasound sometimes used instead of a liver biopsy to find out the amount of fat and scar tissue in the liver.

MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT

How is fatty liver disease treated?

  • There’s no medication specifically for this disease.
    • Instead, doctors focus on helping you manage factors that contribute to the condition.
    • They also recommend making lifestyle changes that can significantly improve your health.
    • Treatment includes:
      • Avoiding alcohol.
      • Losing weight.
      • Taking medications to manage diabetes, cholesterol and triglycerides (fat in the blood).
      • Taking vitamin E

PREVENTION

How can fatty liver disease be prevented?

  • The best way to avoid it is to do the things that maintain overall health:
    • Stay at a healthy weight. If you have overweight/obesity, lose weight gradually.
    • Exercise regularly.
    • Limit your alcohol consumption.
    • Take medications as prescribed.

OUTLOOK / PROGNOSIS

Can fatty liver disease be reversed?

  • The liver has an amazing ability to repair itself.
    • If you avoid alcohol or lose weight, it’s possible to reduce liver fat and inflammation and reverse early liver damage.

Will fatty liver disease kill you?

  • Fatty liver disease doesn’t cause major problems for most people.
    • However, it can turn into a more serious problem if it progresses into cirrhosis of the liver.
    • Untreated cirrhosis of the liver eventually leads to liver failure or liver cancer.
    • Your liver is an organ you can’t live without.

What is nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)?

  • Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a buildup of fat in the liver.
    • It is a common condition.
    • NAFLD can be harmless, but sometimes it may cause the liver to swell.
    • Over time, this swelling can cause scarring in your liver (cirrhosis).
    • The more scarring your liver has, the worse it functions.

Symptoms of NALFD?

  • Many people do not have any symptoms of NAFLD.
    • If you have NAFLD, you may feel fullness or pain in the middle or upper right side of the abdomen.
    • You may feel extremely tired.
    • Your belly may be swollen.
    • You may have yellowing of your skin and eyes.
  • If your NAFLD has progressed to cirrhosis, you may have more serious symptoms
    • including fluid retention,
    • internal bleeding,
    • and mental confusion.

What causes NAFLD?

  • Doctors don’t know exactly what causes NAFLD.
    • They do know that NAFLD is linked to insulin resistance.
    • Insulin resistance is when your body doesn’t respond well to insulin.
    • This makes it more difficult for your body to regulate blood sugar.
    • It is not caused by drinking alcohol.

How is NAFLD diagnosed?

  • To diagnose NAFLD, your doctor may check your blood and order a scan of your liver.
    • If your doctor thinks you may have a more severe liver disease,
      • you may need a liver biopsy.
      • In this procedure, your doctor inserts a needle through your skin and removes a small piece of tissue from your liver.
      • This tissue is looked at under a microscope to check for signs of severe liver disease.

Can NAFLD be prevented or avoided?

  • A wide range of things can increase your risk of NAFLD,
    • including certain medicines
      • and genetic disorders.
    • The most common risk factors for NAFLD are
      • obesity,
      • diabetes,
      • and high cholesterol levels.

NAFLD treatment

  • People who have NAFLD usually do not need treatment.
    • The most important thing is to focus on what has caused your NAFLD.
    • Losing weight gradually (1 to 2 pounds per week) may reduce the amount of fat in your liver.
    • However, losing weight quickly may make NAFLD worse.
    • Ask your doctor for advice on how to lose weight in a safe and healthy way.
    • If your cholesterol and blood sugar levels are high, your doctor may give you medicine to lower them.
    • If a medicine you take is causing your NAFLD, your doctor may consider switching you to a different medicine.

Living with NAFLD

  • For most people, NAFLD is harmless and does not cause serious health problems.
    • NAFLD usually does not affect how well the liver works.
      • However, in rare cases, NAFLD may stop the liver from working as it should.
      • No one can tell for sure who will have liver problems from NAFLD.
      • It is more likely to happen in people who have diabetes or who are very overweight.

credit: clevelandclinic.org

Why Should I See a Urologist?

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Urologist
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Urologist

Why Should I See a Urologist? (Episode 87, To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow)

On this episode of To Your Health, host Dr. Jim Morrow of Village Medical discussed urologists: what they treat and the reasons you’d see one. He covered conditions such as urinary tract infections, bladder infections, interstitial cystitis, and others, as well as prostate cancer and considerations about getting PSA tests done.

To Your Health is brought to you by Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine), which brings the care back to healthcare.

About Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine)

Village Medical, formerly Morrow Family Medicine, is an award-winning, state-of-the-art family practice with offices in Cumming and Milton, Georgia. The practice combines healthcare information technology with old-fashioned care to provide the type of care that many are in search of today. Two physicians, three physician assistants and two nurse practitioners are supported by a knowledgeable and friendly staff to make your visit to Village Medical one that will remind you of the way healthcare should be.  At Village Medical, we like to say we are “bringing the care back to healthcare!”  The practice has been named the “Best of Forsyth” in Family Medicine in all five years of the award, is a three-time consecutive winner of the “Best of North Atlanta” by readers of Appen Media, and the 2019 winner of “Best of Life” in North Fulton County.

Village Medical offers a comprehensive suite of primary care services including preventative care, treatment for illness and injury, and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease. Atlanta-area patients can learn more about the practice here.

Dr. Jim Morrow, Village Medical, and Host of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow

Covid-19 misconceptionsDr. Jim Morrow is the founder of Morrow Family Medicine. He has been a trailblazer and evangelist in healthcare information technology, was named Physician IT Leader of the Year by HIMSS, a HIMSS Davies Award Winner, the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Steve Bloom Award Winner as Entrepreneur of the Year and he received a Phoenix Award as Community Leader of the Year from the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.  He is married to Peggie Morrow and together they founded the Forsyth BYOT Benefit, a charity in Forsyth County to support students in need of technology and devices. They have two Goldendoodles, a gaggle of grandchildren and enjoy life on and around Lake Lanier.

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The complete show archive of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow addresses a wide range of health and wellness topics.

Dr. Morrow’s Show Notes

What is a Urologist?

A urologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the urinary system. This system keeps the body clean by filtering out wastes and toxins and taking them out of the body. The urinary tract includes:

  • Bladder
  • Kidneys
  • Ureters
  • Urethra

A urologist also treats conditions involving the reproductive organs and the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys. The reproductive systems of males and females are linked closely to their urinary systems. You might hear someone use the word “genitourinary.” This refers to symptoms, conditions or treatments that affect both systems.

Difference between urology and nephrology

If you want to see a doctor who specializes only in the kidneys, you’d make an appointment with a nephrologist. Nephrology is considered a subspecialty, but it’s a subspecialty of internal medicine rather than urology. This means that nephrologists aren’t surgeons. Nephrologists must also be able to manage conditions that happen elsewhere in the body that cause kidney problems or happen because of kidney problems, like high blood pressure. Urologists, on the other hand, are surgeons.

What conditions do urologists treat?

Urologists treat common conditions and rarer illnesses that affect everyone and some that affect only men or only women. Some of these conditions include:

Urologists also treat other conditions, such as:

Prostate Cancer Screening

  • The goal of prostate screenings is to find cancer early.
    • Cancer is easier to treat and more likely to be cured if it is caught early.
  • However, most cases of prostate cancer are not aggressive.
    • More men have a slow-growing form of prostate cancer.
    • This means they may not have symptoms or even require treatment.
    • Nine out of 10 men who have prostate cancer go on to receive treatment.
    • Prostate cancer treatment can have long-term side effects.
      • These include loss of bladder control and erectile dysfunction.
      • There is a rare chance of problems occurring in surgery to get a biopsy.
        • This is the only way to confirm a prostate cancer diagnosis.
      • In addition, PSA test results aren’t always accurate.
        • Studies suggest that up to 80% of PSA test results are false-positives.
        • This means that the PSA test result suggests that you might have cancer when you do not.
          • A false-positive test result can lead to unneeded tests, such as a biopsy, and side effects from testing.
          • It also causes worry for you and your family.
        • For these reasons, the American Academy of Family Physicians and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force have issued clinical recommendations. For men 55 through 69 years of age, they do not recommend routine PSA screening. Instead, they recommend having a conversation with your doctor about the risks and benefits of periodic screening. They do not recommend PSA screening for prostate cancer in men 70 years of age and older.
        • Other organizations have different screening recommendations.
          • These include the American Cancer Society and the American Urological Association. Their guidelines depend on your age and state of health.

Things to consider:

  • Ultimately, the decision to be screened for prostate cancer is between you and your doctor.
    • Talk to them about your specific concerns.
    • They can weigh the pros and cons with your personal health and risk factors.
  • Doctors and scientists perform ongoing and new research.
    • These studies, or clinical trials, help to learn more about the benefits and risks of prostate cancer screening.
    • Ask your doctor about the most recent study results.
    • Try to stay up to date on new progress in prostate cancer screening and treatment.

Patient Experience at Village Medical, with Dr. David Hatfield, President of Village Medical

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Dr. David Hatfield
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Dr. David Hatfield

Patient Experience at Village Medical, with Dr. David Hatfield, President of Village Medical (Episode 86, To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow)

Dr. David Hatfield, President of Village Medical, joined Dr. Jim Morrow on this edition of To Your Health. Dr. Hatfield and Dr. Morrow discussed the Village Medical model, value-based care, addressing gaps in care, their team approach which includes wraparound services like Village Medical at Home, patient experience, and much more.

To Your Health is brought to you by Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine), a “New Way to Well.”

Village Medical

At Village Medical, your relationship with your primary care provider is the foundation to your health. Their doctors and staff partner with you to understand your needs, and work together to focus not just on treatment, but also education and preventative care.

They combine the tools, technology and people needed to help create healthier, happier patients. More connected care means more complete care.

Village Medical clinics located at Walgreens pharmacies are bringing their vision of exceptional and compassionate primary care even closer to you. With locations throughout the United States, they’re in your neighborhood. And that network means you can visit a doctor at any of their locations, and they’ll have your records available.

With Village Medical at Home, they provide at-home visits designed to give eligible patients the attention they need, in a way that’s best for them and their caregivers.

With your caring team at Village Medical, it’s easy and convenient to stay on top of your health. Maybe more than ever before. Village Medical. The New Way to Well.

Company website | Facebook | Instagram

Dr. David Hatfield, President, Village Medical

Dr. David Hatfield, President, Village Medical

Dr. David Hatfield has been practicing since 1995, with a focus on Family Medicine and a clinical interest in geriatrics.

Dr. Hatfield completed his undergraduate study in exercise science at Arizona State University. He attended medical school at A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Missouri and fulfilled his family practice residency at Mesa General Hospital. Certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Practice (AOBFP), he has a Master of Medical Management (MMM) degree from USC.

He is fluent in Spanish.

Outside of work, Dr. Hatfield enjoys snowboarding, golfing and mountain biking. He has ten grandchildren (and counting) and is interested in food.

Dr. Jim Morrow, Village Medical, and Host of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow

Covid-19 misconceptionsDr. Jim Morrow is the founder of Morrow Family Medicine, now part of the Village Medical family of practices. He has been a trailblazer and evangelist in healthcare information technology, was named Physician IT Leader of the Year by HIMSS, a HIMSS Davies Award Winner, the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Steve Bloom Award Winner as Entrepreneur of the Year and he received a Phoenix Award as Community Leader of the Year from the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.  He is married to Peggie Morrow and together they founded the Forsyth BYOT Benefit, a charity in Forsyth County to support students in need of technology and devices. They have two Goldendoodles, a gaggle of grandchildren and enjoy life on and around Lake Lanier.

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The complete show archive of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow addresses a wide range of health and wellness topics.

Digital Addiction: An Interview with Dr. Nidhi Gupta, Phreedom: Ungrip Devices. Grip Life

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Nidhi Gupta
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Nidhi Gupta

Digital Addiction: An Interview with Dr. Nidhi Gupta, Phreedom: Ungrip Devices. Grip Life (Episode 85, To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow)

Dr. Nidhi Gupta, pediatric endocrinologist and an award-winning researcher, joined host Dr. Jim Morrow to talk about Phreedom, her movement to mitigate digital addiction. Dr. Gupta explained how our behavior with any mobile wireless device contributes to addiction, explained how that addiction works via the trigger loop, the impacts on health, her advice for digital wellness, and more.

To Your Health is brought to you by Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine), which brings the care back to healthcare.

Phreedom: Ungrip Devices. Grip Life

Driven by her personal and professional experiences, Dr. Nidhi Gupta launched a movement (Phreedom: Ungrip Devices. Grip Life) to raise awareness about smartphone addiction and enlighten her audience to reclaim their time and attention in this technology driven economy.

Through her research and clinical work, Nidhi is devoted to exposing the dangers of screen addiction. Her work shows that screen time obsession causes or contributes to an array of health challenges such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, depression, anxiety, addiction, and more.

Nidhi has created a robust digital-wellness workshop that empowers parents, professionals, and students with a deep understanding of smartphone addiction and practical tools to prevent and/or mitigate this behavior.

Company website | Facebook |  Twitter

Dr. Nidhi Gupta, Founder & CEO, Phreedom: Ungrip Devices. Grip Life, & KAP Pediatric Endocrinology

Dr. Nidhi Gupta, Founder & CEO, Phreedom: Ungrip Devices. Grip Life, & KAP Pediatric Endocrinology

Dr. Nidhi Gupta is a pediatric endocrinologist and an award-wining researcher. She has been a featured speaker on several podcasts, including The BMJ, Switch4good, The Daily Huddle and How It’s Done. Nidhi has authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles, book chapters and essays.

Nidhi is speaking at TEDx Tullahoma in April 2023.

Nidhi completed her medical school at Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, India; pediatric residency at Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit and pediatric endocrinology fellowship at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. Upon graduating, she was an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Vanderbilt University Medical Center for 4 years, where she was the director of the Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Related Diabetes Clinic.

She is now the Founder and CEO of KAP Pediatric Endocrinology, a direct specialty endocrine practice in Franklin, TN.

LinkedIn

About Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine)

Village Medical, formerly Morrow Family Medicine, is an award-winning, state-of-the-art family practice with offices in Cumming and Milton, Georgia. The practice combines healthcare information technology with old-fashioned care to provide the type of care that many are in search of today. Two physicians, three physician assistants and two nurse practitioners are supported by a knowledgeable and friendly staff to make your visit to Village Medical one that will remind you of the way healthcare should be.  At Village Medical, we like to say we are “bringing the care back to healthcare!”  The practice has been named the “Best of Forsyth” in Family Medicine in all five years of the award, is a three-time consecutive winner of the “Best of North Atlanta” by readers of Appen Media, and the 2019 winner of “Best of Life” in North Fulton County.

Village Medical offers a comprehensive suite of primary care services including preventative care, treatment for illness and injury, and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease. Atlanta-area patients can learn more about the practice here.

Dr. Jim Morrow, Village Medical, and Host of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow

Covid-19 misconceptionsDr. Jim Morrow is the founder of Morrow Family Medicine. He has been a trailblazer and evangelist in healthcare information technology, was named Physician IT Leader of the Year by HIMSS, a HIMSS Davies Award Winner, the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Steve Bloom Award Winner as Entrepreneur of the Year and he received a Phoenix Award as Community Leader of the Year from the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.  He is married to Peggie Morrow and together they founded the Forsyth BYOT Benefit, a charity in Forsyth County to support students in need of technology and devices. They have two Goldendoodles, a gaggle of grandchildren and enjoy life on and around Lake Lanier.

Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter

The complete show archive of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow addresses a wide range of health and wellness topics.

Vaccine Myths vs. Facts

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Vaccine Myths
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Vaccine Myths vs. Facts
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Vaccine Myths

Vaccine Myths vs. Facts (Episode 84, To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow)

On this episode of To Your Health, host Dr. Jim Morrow of Village Medical addresses some of the most common myths surrounding vaccines, including myths like vaccines aren’t safe, they don’t work, and that vaccines cause autism spectrum disorder. He also mentions the Georgia Registry of Immunization Transactions & Services (GRITS) as a resource to track immunization records.

To Your Health is brought to you by Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine), which brings the care back to healthcare.

About Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine)

Village Medical, formerly Morrow Family Medicine, is an award-winning, state-of-the-art family practice with offices in Cumming and Milton, Georgia. The practice combines healthcare information technology with old-fashioned care to provide the type of care that many are in search of today. Two physicians, three physician assistants and two nurse practitioners are supported by a knowledgeable and friendly staff to make your visit to Village Medical one that will remind you of the way healthcare should be.  At Village Medical, we like to say we are “bringing the care back to healthcare!”  The practice has been named the “Best of Forsyth” in Family Medicine in all five years of the award, is a three-time consecutive winner of the “Best of North Atlanta” by readers of Appen Media, and the 2019 winner of “Best of Life” in North Fulton County.

Village Medical offers a comprehensive suite of primary care services including preventative care, treatment for illness and injury, and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease. Atlanta-area patients can learn more about the practice here.

Dr. Jim Morrow, Village Medical, and Host of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow

Covid-19 misconceptionsDr. Jim Morrow is the founder of Morrow Family Medicine. He has been a trailblazer and evangelist in healthcare information technology, was named Physician IT Leader of the Year by HIMSS, a HIMSS Davies Award Winner, the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Steve Bloom Award Winner as Entrepreneur of the Year and he received a Phoenix Award as Community Leader of the Year from the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.  He is married to Peggie Morrow and together they founded the Forsyth BYOT Benefit, a charity in Forsyth County to support students in need of technology and devices. They have two Goldendoodles, a gaggle of grandchildren and enjoy life on and around Lake Lanier.

Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter

The complete show archive of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow addresses a wide range of health and wellness topics.

Dr. Morrow’s Show Notes

Vaccine Myths vs Facts

  • There are many common misconceptions regarding vaccines.
    • If you find yourself trying to decide if you’re for or against them, here is some evidence-based information offered to clear up any confusion.

Myth: Vaccines don’t work.

  • Fact: Vaccines prevent many diseases that used to make people very sick.
    • Now that people are being vaccinated for those diseases, they’re not common anymore.
    • One example is measles. It used to be a serious respiratory illness that affected children.
      • But once the vaccine was developed and people got immunized, it’s almost completely eliminated.
    • A vaccine helps your body build immunity to a particular disease.
      • Immunity means you’re protected from getting the disease.
        • In order for them to work properly, vaccines need to be given at certain times.
        • That’s because some vaccines take a few weeks or months to create immunity in your body.
        • Therefore, you and your children should get all vaccines per the schedule provided by your doctor.

Myth: Vaccines aren’t safe

  • Fact: The safety of vaccines is important, from beginning to end.
    • When a vaccine is developed, it goes through a strict and detailed process overseen by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
    • The FDA must prove the vaccine is safe before it can be given to people.
  • Vaccines go through many testing phases before they’re given to people.
    • This includes testing on thousands of people and careful analysis of the test data by scientists.
    • Once the FDA decides a vaccine is safe for people, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) joins the FDA in continuing to monitor the vaccine as it’s given to people.
    • They watch for many things, including how well it works and what side effects happen.
  • In addition to watching vaccines, the CDC and FDA monitor the facilities where the vaccines are made.
    • They do this to make sure the vaccines are being produced safely.
    • The two groups also check each batch of vaccines before they’re distributed to the public to make sure they’re safe.
  • If you have questions about vaccine safety, talk with your doctor. Ask to see the CDC’s Vaccine Information Sheet for information about each vaccine.

Myth: I don’t need vaccines. My natural immunity is better than a vaccination.

  • Fact: Many preventable diseases are dangerous and can cause lasting side effects.
    • It’s much safer—and easier—to get vaccines, instead.
    • Plus, being vaccinated helps keep you from spreading the disease to unvaccinated people around you.

Myth: Vaccines include a live version of the virus.

  • Fact: Diseases are caused by either bacterial or viral infections.
    • Vaccines trick your body into thinking you have the infection caused by a particular disease.
  • Some vaccines contain a pretend version of the infection.
    • But your body thinks it’s the real infection.
    • It wants to protect itself from the infection, so it creates antibodies to attack it.
    • Antibodies are infection fighters that live in your blood.
    • After your body rids itself of the pretend infection, the antibodies remember how to fight the real infection.
    • This makes you immune against the disease.
  • Other vaccines contain live versions of the bacteria or virus that causes the disease.
    • However, those infections have been so weakened during the vaccine creation process that they can’t make you sick with the disease.
    • But your body fights the infection as if it’s the strong version of the infection.
    • This creates immunity, too.

Myth: Vaccines have negative side effects.

  • Fact: Side effects can be common with vaccines.
    • In fact, your doctor may tell you to expect minor side effects.
    • However, the benefit of getting vaccines outweighs the possibility of side effects.
    • Possible common side effects include
      • pain,
      • redness, and swelling near the injection site;
      • a low-grade fever of less than 100.3 degrees;
      • a headache;
      • and a rash.
    • Severe side effects of vaccines are rare.
      • If you experience a severe issue after getting a vaccine, let your doctor know right away.

Myth: Vaccines cause autism spectrum disorder.

  • Fact: There is proof that vaccines do not cause autism.
    • A study published more than 20 years ago first suggested that vaccines cause the disability known as autism spectrum disorder.
      • However, that study has been proven to be false.
      • Researchers have studied vaccines and autism and haven’t found anything that links the two.
      • Instead, scientists have found a gene that’s linked to autism.
      • That means children with autism have had the gene for it since birth.
    • Timing may be behind why people believe vaccines and autism are related.
      • Some children begin to show signs of autism spectrum disorder around the same time they receive the vaccine for measles, mumps, and rubella.

Myth: Vaccinations aren’t safe to get while pregnant.

  • Fact: Actually, the opposite is true.
    • The CDC recommends pregnant women get the vaccine for diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough.
      • Additionally, if the woman is pregnant during influenza season, it’s recommended she get the flu vaccine, too.
      • These vaccines can protect the mother—and the baby.
    • A baby develops immunity when their mother gets a vaccine.
      • And vaccines can protect the baby for a few months after they’re born.
      • This is especially important because newborn babies don’t have fully developed immune systems.
      • If they become sick, it can be very serious.
        • However, the immunity a baby gets from their mother only lasts for a few months after birth.
        • That’s why it’s important your baby receives all suggested vaccinations from your doctor.

Myth: I don’t have to tell anyone if I choose to not vaccinate my child.

  • Fact: If you choose not to vaccinate your child, you need to tell certain people.
    • These include your doctor and other medical professionals.
      • They need to know so they can best determine how to care for your child if they become sick.
      • Additionally, your child’s daycare, school, or babysitter should know.
    • Vaccines are required for many activities.
      • Not having the appropriate vaccine can interfere with your plans. These instances include:
      • School (K-12 and college dorm life)
      • Travel

Questions to ask your doctor:

  • Can I delay a vaccine?
  • Can I get a disease after I’ve gotten the vaccine?
  • What should I do if I don’t have health insurance, or my insurance doesn’t cover vaccinations?
  • What vaccinations do I need as an adult?
  • How do I know if I had certain vaccines as a child if I don’t have the records?
  • Is my newborn at risk of certain diseases if he or she isn’t old enough to get certain vaccines?

Credit: www.familydoctor.org

Winter Infections

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Winter Infections
North Fulton Studio
Winter Infections
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Winter Infections

Winter Infections (Episode 83, To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow)

Host Dr. Jim Morrow covers a variety of winter infections, including the common cold, bronchitis, pneumonia, and others. He detailed where they occur in the body, advice about when to go to the doctor, sensible measures to avoid getting sick, ways to get better once you’re sick, and much more.

To Your Health is brought to you by Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine), which brings the care back to healthcare.

About Village Medical (formerly Morrow Family Medicine)

Village Medical, formerly Morrow Family Medicine, is an award-winning, state-of-the-art family practice with offices in Cumming and Milton, Georgia. The practice combines healthcare information technology with old-fashioned care to provide the type of care that many are in search of today. Two physicians, three physician assistants and two nurse practitioners are supported by a knowledgeable and friendly staff to make your visit to Village Medical one that will remind you of the way healthcare should be.  At Village Medical, we like to say we are “bringing the care back to healthcare!”  The practice has been named the “Best of Forsyth” in Family Medicine in all five years of the award, is a three-time consecutive winner of the “Best of North Atlanta” by readers of Appen Media, and the 2019 winner of “Best of Life” in North Fulton County.

Village Medical offers a comprehensive suite of primary care services including preventative care, treatment for illness and injury, and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease. Atlanta-area patients can learn more about the practice here.

Dr. Jim Morrow, Village Medical, and Host of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow

Covid-19 misconceptionsDr. Jim Morrow is the founder of Morrow Family Medicine. He has been a trailblazer and evangelist in healthcare information technology, was named Physician IT Leader of the Year by HIMSS, a HIMSS Davies Award Winner, the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Steve Bloom Award Winner as Entrepreneur of the Year and he received a Phoenix Award as Community Leader of the Year from the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.  He is married to Peggie Morrow and together they founded the Forsyth BYOT Benefit, a charity in Forsyth County to support students in need of technology and devices. They have two Goldendoodles, a gaggle of grandchildren and enjoy life on and around Lake Lanier.

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The complete show archive of To Your Health with Dr. Jim Morrow addresses a wide range of health and wellness topics.

Dr. Morrow’s Show Notes

Winter Infections

What are the symptoms of the common cold?

  • Common cold symptoms may include:
    • Stuffy, runny nose
    • Scratchy, tickly throat
    • Sneezing
    • Watering eyes
    • Low-grade fever
    • Sore throat
    • Mild hacking cough
    • Achy muscles and bones
    • Headache
    • Mild fatigue
    • Chills
    • Watery discharge from nose that thickens and turns yellow or green
  • Colds usually start 2 to 3 days after the virus enters the body and symptoms last from several days to several weeks.
  • Cold symptoms may look like other medical conditions.
    • Always consult your healthcare provider for a diagnosis if your symptoms are severe.
  • A cold and the flu (influenza) are two different illnesses.
    • A cold is relatively harmless and usually clears up by itself, although sometimes it may lead to a secondary infection, such as an ear infection.
    • However, the flu can lead to complications, such as pneumonia and even death.

How is the common cold diagnosed?

  • Most common colds are diagnosed based on reported symptoms.
    • However, cold symptoms may be similar to certain bacterial infections, allergies, and other medical conditions.
    • Always consult your healthcare provider for a diagnosis if your symptoms are severe.

How is the common cold treated?

  • Currently, there is no medicine available to cure or shorten the duration of the common cold.
    • However, the following are some treatments that may help to relieve some symptoms of the cold:
      • Over-the-counter cold medicines, such as decongestants and cough medicine
      • Over-the-counter antihistamines (medicine that helps dry up nasal secretions and suppress coughing)
      • Rest
      • Increased fluid intake
      • Pain relievers for headache or fever
      • Warm, salt water gargling for sore throat
      • Petroleum jelly for raw, chapped skin around the nose and lips
  • Because colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics don’t work.
    • Antibiotics are only effective when given to treat bacterial infections.
  • Do not give aspirin to a child who has fever.
    • Aspirin, when given as treatment for viral illnesses in children, has been associated with Reye syndrome.
    • This is a potentially serious or deadly disorder in children.

What are the complications of the common cold?

  • Colds can lead to secondary infections, including bacterial, middle ear, and sinus infections that may require treatment with antibiotics.
    • If you have a cold along with high fever, sinus pain, significantly swollen glands, or a mucus-producing cough, see your healthcare provider.
    • You may need additional treatment.

Can the common cold be prevented?

  • The best way to avoid catching cold is to wash your hands often and avoid close contact with people who have colds.
    • When around people with colds, do not touch your nose or eyes, because your hands may be contaminated with the virus.
    • If you have a cold, cough and sneeze in facial tissue and dispose of the tissue promptly.
      • Then wash your hands right away.
      • Also clean surfaces with disinfectants that kill viruses can halt the spread of the common cold.
      • Research has shown that rhinoviruses may survive up to 3 hours outside of the nasal lining.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

  • If your symptoms get worse or you have new symptoms, let your healthcare provider know.
  • If your symptoms don’t improve within a few days, call your provider, as you could have another type of infection.

Key points about the common cold

  • A cold is caused by a virus that causes inflammation of the membranes that line the nose and throat.
  • The common cold is very easily spread to others.
    • It’s often spread through airborne droplets that are coughed or sneezed into the air by the sick person.
    • The droplets are then inhaled by another person.
  • Symptoms may include a stuffy, runny nose, scratchy, tickly throat, sneezing, watery eyes and a low-grade fever.
  • Treatment to reduce symptoms includes getting rest and drinking plenty of fluids.
  • Because colds are caused by viruses, treatment with antibiotics won’t work.
  • The best prevention for the common cold is frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with people who have colds.

What is acute bronchitis?

  • Acute bronchitis is a contagious viral infection that causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes. These are the airways that carry air into your lungs. When these tubes get infected, they swell. Mucus (thick fluid) forms inside them. This narrows the airways, making it harder for you to breathe.
  • There are 2 types of bronchitis: acute and chronic. Chronic bronchitisis long-lasting and can reoccur. It usually is caused by constant irritation, such as from smoking. Acute bronchitis lasts only a short time. Most cases get better in several days, though the cough can last for several weeks.

Symptoms of acute bronchitis

  • The symptoms of acute bronchitis can include:
  • Your cough can last for several weeks or more. This happens because the bronchial tubes take a while to heal. A lasting cough may signal another problem, such as asthma or pneumonia.

What causes acute bronchitis?

  • Acute bronchitis is most often caused by a contagious virus. The same viruses that cause colds can cause acute bronchitis. First, the virus affects your nose, sinuses, and throat. Then the infection travels to the lining of the bronchial tubes. As your body fights the virus, swelling occurs and mucus is produced.
  • You can catch a virus from breathing it in or by skin contact. You are at higher risk of catching the virus if you have close contact with someone who has a cold or acute bronchitis.
  • Lesser-known causes of acute bronchitis are:
    • Bacteria or fungal infections.
    • Exposure to irritants, such as smoke, dust, or fumes. You are at greater risk if your bronchial tubes already have damage.
    • GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), which causes heartburn. You can get acute bronchitis when stomach acid gets into the bronchial tubes.

How is acute bronchitis diagnosed?

  • Your doctor can confirm acute bronchitis. He or she will do a physical exam and review your symptoms. He or she will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope. Your doctor might order a chest X-ray to look at your lungs. This will help rule out pneumonia.

Can acute bronchitis be prevented or avoided?

  • You can help prevent acute bronchitis by staying healthy and avoiding germs. Wash your hands with soap often to kill any contagious viruses.
  • If you smoke, the best defense against acute bronchitis is to quit. Smoking damages your bronchial tubes and puts you at risk for infection. Smoking also slows down the healing process.
  • Other steps you can take to avoid acute bronchitis include:
  • Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when using lung irritants. These could include paint, paint remover, or varnish.
  • Get a flu shot every year.
  • Ask your doctor if you should get a pneumonia shot, especially if you are over age 60.

Acute bronchitis treatment

  • Most cases of acute bronchitis are caused by a virus. This means that antibiotics won’t help. The infection needs to run its course. It almost always goes away on its own. Home treatment focuses on easing the symptoms:
    • Drink fluids but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
    • Get plenty of rest.
    • Take over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and lower your fever. These could include acetaminophen (1 brand name: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (1 brand name: Advil). Never give aspirin to a child. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, which can affect the liver and brain.
    • Increase the humidity in your home or use a humidifier.
    • There are some over-the-counter cough medicines that help break up or loosen mucus. Look for the word “guaifenesin” on the label or ask your pharmacist for a suggestion.
  • Do not hold in a cough that brings up mucus. This type of cough helps clear mucus from your bronchial tubes. If you smoke, you should quit. It will help your bronchial tubes heal faster.
  • Some people who have acute bronchitis need inhaled medicine. You might need this if you are wheezing. It can help open your bronchial tubes and clear out mucus. You usually take it with an inhaler. An inhaler sprays medicine right into your bronchial tubes. Your doctor will decide if this treatment is right for you.
  • If your doctor thinks bacteria have caused your acute bronchitis, he or she may give you antibiotics.

Living with acute bronchitis

  • Most cases of acute bronchitis go away on their own in 7 to 10 days. You should call your doctor if:
  • You continue to wheeze and cough for more than 2 weeks, especially at night when you lie down or when you are active.
  • You continue to cough for more than 2 weeks and have a bad-tasting fluid come up into your mouth. This may mean you have GERD. This is a condition in which stomach acid gets into your esophagus.
  • Your cough produces blood, you feel weak, you have an ongoing high fever, and you are short of breath. These symptoms may mean you have pneumonia.
  • The risk of developing complications from acute bronchitis, such as pneumonia, is greater in some people. These include:
    • Young children
    • The elderly
    • People who have asthma
    • People who have other health issues (such as canceror diabetes)
    • People who haven’t gotten vaccines for flu, pneumonia, or whooping cough

What is pneumonia?

  • Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. It causes the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs to get inflamed (irritated and swollen). They may fill up with fluid or pus. This causes a variety of symptoms, which range from mild to severe. Pneumonia is usually caused by bacteria or a virus. It also can be caused by fungi or irritants that you breathe into your lungs. How serious pneumonia is depends on many factors. These include what caused the pneumonia, your age, and your overall health.

Symptoms of pneumonia

  • The symptoms of pneumonia can range from mild to severe. This depends on your risk factors and the type of pneumonia you have. Common symptoms are similar to the symptoms caused by a cold or the flu. They include:
    • cough
    • fever
    • bringing up mucus when you cough
    • difficulty breathing
    • chills
    • chest pain
  • You may also sweat, have a headache, and feel very tired. Some people also experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
  • If any of these symptoms are severe, call your family doctor. You should also call your doctor if you suddenly start getting worse after having a cold or the flu.

What is walking pneumonia?

  • Walking pneumonia is a mild case of pneumonia. It is often caused by a virus or the mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria. When you have walking pneumonia, your symptoms may not be as severe or last as long as someone who has a more serious case of pneumonia. You probably won’t need bed rest or to stay in the hospital when you have walking pneumonia.

What causes pneumonia?

  • Bacteria: They are the most common cause of pneumonia in adults. They can cause pneumonia on their own, or after you’ve had a cold or the flu. Bacterial pneumonia usually only affects one area of a lung.
  • Any virus that affects the respiratory tract can cause pneumonia. This includes the flu virus and the virus that causes the common cold. In children under 1 year old, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause. Viral pneumonia tends to be mild. It often gets better on its own in 1 to 3 weeks.
  • Some fungal infections can lead to pneumonia, especially in people with weakened immune systems. There are also some fungi that occur in the soil in certain parts of the United States that can lead to pneumonia.
  • You can also get pneumonia through aspiration. This is when you inhale particles into your lungs. These could be food, saliva, liquids, or vomit. It occurs most often after vomiting, and you are not strong enough to cough the particles out. The particles cause irritation, swelling and can get infected. This causes pneumonia.

How is pneumonia diagnosed?

  • Pneumonia can sometimes be hard to diagnose because the symptoms are the same as for a bad cold or flu. If you think it could be pneumonia, you should see your doctor. Your doctor may diagnose pneumonia based on your medical history and the results from a physical exam. He or she will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope. Your doctor may also do some tests, such as a chest X-ray or a blood test. A chest X-ray can show your doctor if you have pneumonia and how widespread the infection is. Blood and mucus tests can help your doctor tell whether bacteria, a virus, or a fungal organism is causing your pneumonia.

Can pneumonia be prevented or avoided?

  • There are many factors that can raise your risk for developing pneumonia. These include:
    • Your age.People older than 65 are at increased risk because the immune system becomes less able to fight off infection as you age. Infants age 2 or younger are also at increased risk because their immune systems haven’t fully developed yet.
    • Your environment.Regularly breathing in dust, chemicals, air pollution, or toxic fumes can damage your lungs. This makes your lungs more vulnerable to infection.
    • Your lifestyle.Habits such as smoking cigarettes or abusing alcohol can increase your risk. Smoking damages the lungs, while alcohol interferes with how your body fights infection.
    • Your immune system.If your immune system is weakened, it’s easier for you to get pneumonia because your body can’t fight off the infection. This could include people who have HIV/AIDS, have had an organ transplant, are receiving chemotherapy, or have long-term steroid use.
    • If you are hospitalized, especially in an ICU.Being in the ICU (intensive care unit) raises your risk of pneumonia. Your risk increases if you are using a ventilator to help you breathe. Ventilators make it hard for you to cough and can trap germs that cause infection in your lungs.
    • If you have recently had major surgery or a serious injury.Recovering from major surgery or injury can make it difficult for you to cough. This is the body’s quickest defense for getting particles out of the lungs. Recovery also typically requires a lot of bed rest. Lying down on your back for an extended period of time can allow fluid or mucus to gather in your lungs. This gives bacteria a place to grow.
  • People who have any of the following conditions are also at increased risk:
    • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
    • asthma
    • heart disease
    • emphysema
    • diabetes
    • sickle cell disease
  • You can help prevent pneumonia by doing the following:
    • Get the flu vaccine each year.People can develop bacterial pneumonia after a case of the flu. You can reduce this risk by getting the yearly flu shot.
    • Get the pneumococcal vaccine.This helps prevent pneumonia caused by pneumococcal bacteria.
    • Practice good hygiene.Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
    • Don’t smoke.Smoking damages your lungs and makes it harder for your body to defend itself from germs and disease. If you smoke, talk to your family doctor about quitting as soon as possible.
    • Practice a healthy lifestyle.Eat a balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables. Exercise regularly. Get plenty of sleep. These things help your immune system stay strong.
    • Avoid sick people.Being around people who are sick increases your risk of catching what they have.

Is there a vaccine for pneumonia?

  • There isn’t a vaccine for all types of pneumonia, but 2 vaccines are available. These help prevent pneumonia caused by pneumococcal bacteria. The first is recommended for all children younger than 5 years of age. The second is recommended for anyone age 2 or older who is at increased risk for pneumonia. Getting the pneumonia vaccine is especially important if you:
    • Are 65 years of age or older.
    • Have certain chronic conditions, such as asthma, lung disease, diabetes, heart disease, sickle cell disease, or cirrhosis.
    • Have a weakened immune system because of HIV/AIDS, kidney failure, a damaged or removed spleen, a recent organ transplant, or receiving chemotherapy.
    • Have cochlear implants (an electronic device that helps you hear).
  • The pneumococcal vaccines can’t prevent all cases of pneumonia. But they can make it less likely that people who are at risk will experience the severe, and possibly life-threatening, complications of pneumonia.

Pneumonia treatment

  • Treatment for pneumonia depends on several factors. These include what caused your pneumonia, how severe your symptoms are, how healthy you are overall, and your age.
  • For bacterial pneumonia, your doctor will probably prescribe antibiotics. Most of your symptoms should improve within a few days. A cough can last for several weeks. Be sure to follow your doctor’s directions carefully. Take all the antibiotic medicine that your doctor prescribes. If you don’t, some bacteria may stay in your body. This can cause your pneumonia to come back. It can also increase your risk of antibiotic resistance.
  • Antibiotics don’t work to treat viral infections. If you have viral pneumonia, your doctor will likely talk to you about ways to treat your symptoms. Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are available to lower fever, relieve pain, and ease your cough. However, some coughing is okay because it can help clear your lungs. Be sure to talk to your doctor before you take a cough suppressant.
  • If a fungus is causing your pneumonia, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal medicine.
  • If your case of pneumonia is severe, you may need to be hospitalized. If you are experiencing shortness of breath, you may be given oxygen to help your breathing. You might also receive antibiotics intravenously (through an IV). People who have weakened immune systems, heart disease or lung conditions, and people who were already very sick before developing pneumonia are most likely to be hospitalized. Babies, young children, and adults who are 65 years of age and older are also at increased risk.

What can I do at home to feel better?

  • In addition to taking any antibiotics and/or medicine your doctor prescribes, you should also:
    • Get lots of rest.Rest will help your body fight the infection.
    • Drink plenty of fluids.Fluids will keep you hydrated. They can help loosen the mucus in your lungs. Try water, warm tea, and clear soups.
    • Stop smoking if you smoke and avoid secondhand smoke.Smoke can make your symptoms worse. Smoking also increases your risk of developing pneumonia and other lung problems in the future. You should also avoid lit fireplaces or other areas where the air may not be clean.
    • Stay home from school or work until your symptoms go away.This usually means waiting until your fever breaks and you aren’t coughing up mucus. Ask your doctor when it’s okay for you to return to school or work.
    • Use a cool-mist humidifier or take a warm bath.This will help clear your lungs and make it easier for you to breathe.

Living with pneumonia

  • Your doctor may schedule a follow-up appointment after he or she diagnoses you with pneumonia. At this visit, he or she might take another chest X-ray to make sure the pneumonia infection is clearing up. Keep in mind that chest X-rays can take months to return to normal. However, if your symptoms are not improving, your doctor may decide to try another form of treatment.
  • Although you may be feeling better, it’s important to keep your follow-up appointment. The infection can still be in your lungs even if you’re no longer experiencing symptoms.

When should I see my doctor?

  • Pneumonia can be life-threatening if left untreated, especially for certain at-risk people. You should call your doctor if you have a cough that won’t go away, shortness of breath, chest pain, or a fever. You should also call your doctor if you suddenly begin to feel worse after having a cold or the flu.

What is whooping cough?

  • Whooping cough is a respiratory infection. It is also known as pertussis. Whooping cough is highly contagious and is most harmful to babies.

    Symptoms of whooping cough

  • Whooping cough begins like a cold. Symptoms can start a few days to several weeks after exposure. Early symptoms last 1 to 2 weeks and include:
    • Low fever
    • Mild cough
    • Runny nose
    • Dry or sore throat
    • Apnea (a pause in breathing or shallow breathing, often during sleep)
    • Your cough can get worse over time. Late-stage symptoms include:
    • Coughing fits that end in a “whooping” sound
    • Bursts of coughing that last longer
    • Vomiting after coughing
    • Getting red or blue in the face from coughing
    • Feeling exhausted after coughing
    • Increased coughing at night
    • Worsened apnea
  • Symptoms vary in babies and children, teenagers, and adults. For instance, babies cough less and are more likely to have apnea and turn blue. If you received the vaccine, symptoms will be milder and won’t last as long.

What causes whooping cough?

  • Whooping cough is caused by certain germs, or bacteria. You can get whooping cough if you breathe in these bacteria. It spreads between people when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You also can get it by touching an infected person or surface.

How is whooping cough diagnosed?

  • You should see your doctor if you or someone around you might have whooping cough. Your doctor will review your symptoms and listen to your cough. There are several tests to confirm whooping cough. Your doctor can swab inside your nose and/or throat. A lab will check the swab for whooping cough bacteria. Your doctor also may want to get a blood sample or take a chest X-ray.

Can whooping cough be prevented or avoided?

  • Vaccination is the best way to prevent whooping cough. The pertussis vaccine (DTaP, Tdap) is part of the recommended vaccine schedule for children and adults. Adults should get a pertussis booster every 5-10 years. Pregnant women and those in close contact with babies should be vaccinated. Talk to your doctor to make sure you and your family’s vaccinations are up to date.

Whooping cough treatment

  • Your doctor will most likely prescribe antibiotics. These will relieve your symptoms and kill the bacteria so you aren’t contagious. Infants and babies may need to stay in the hospital. If you have whooping cough, you should avoid contact with others, especially babies.

Living with whooping cough

  • Whooping cough can last anywhere from 1 to 6 weeks. You may continue to cough on and off, even with medicine. Over-the-counter medicines for coughing do not help with whooping cough. You should rest and drink fluids to prevent dehydration. You can try using a cool-mist humidifier or taking a warm bath or shower. These can help clear your lungs and make it easier to breathe. Avoid smoking and areas where the air is not clean. You may need to stay home from work or school. Talk to your doctor about when you can return to your regular schedule.

 

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