What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system — your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder and the urethra.

Causes of UTIs

UTIs typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. The most common cause of UTIs is Escherichia coli (E. coli), a bacteria commonly found in the bowel.

Here are some factors that can increase your risk of developing a UTI:

• Anatomy: Women have a shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Women get UTIs up to 30 times more frequently than men.
• Sexual contact: Can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
• Menopause: Decreased estrogen levels can make the urinary tract more susceptible to infection.
• Urinary tract abnormalities: Blockages or any abnormality in the urinary tract can make it easier for bacteria to settle.
• Weakened immune system: Makes it harder for the body to fight off infection.
• Holding urine: Not emptying your bladder regularly allows bacteria a greater chance to multiply in the bladder.
• Cleaning technique: Wiping from back to front after using the toilet can transfer bacteria to your urethra.

Symptoms of a UTI

Common symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) include the following.

• More frequent urination (possibly small amounts)
• A strong, persistent urge to urinate
• A burning sensation when urinating
• Urine that appears cloudy
• Urine that appears red, bright pink, or cola-colored — a sign of blood in the urine
• Strong-smelling urine
• Lower abdominal pain

Treatment for UTIs

UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics. Your physician will determine the type of antibiotic and the duration of the treatment but the specific type of antibiotic and duration of treatment will depend on the severity of your infection and your medical history.

• Antibiotics: Your doctor will likely prescribe an antibiotic to kill the bacteria causing the infection. It’s crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if your symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning.
• Home remedies: While not a substitute for medical evaluation and treatment by a board-certified emergency physician or your primary care physician (PCP), some home remedies may help relieve, although not treat your UTI symptoms.
• Over the Counter Pain reliever: such as phenazopyridine decreases bladder pain.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve discomfort from UTIs.
• Increased fluid intake: Drinking plenty of water may help prevent further growth of bacteria in the urinary tract.
• Heating pad: Applying a heating pad to your lower abdomen can help soothe pain.

If you suspect you have a UTI, it’s important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early treatment can help prevent complications like kidney infections.

When to Visit Urgent Care Center for UTIs

Here’s when you should consider going to an urgent care center for a UTI:

• Symptoms: If you have a burning with urination, increased urination or the uncontrollable urge to urinate.
• Blood in your urine: This can be a sign of a more serious issue.
• No improvement with home care: If you’ve tried home remedies like increasing fluid intake, but your symptoms aren’t improving or are worsening after 24-48 hours.
• Difficulty urinating: If you’re unable to urinate or have significant pain while urinating.

Important:

• Don’t delay treatment: Untreated UTIs can lead to kidney infections, which are more serious.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush out bacteria.

We hope this helps you make the best decision for your health!

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Dr. Shelise Edwards, MD, FACEP, is a board-certified emergency medicine physician. She currently serves as Medical Director of enTrust Immediate Care in Houston, TX. Originally from Tallahassee, FL, she completed her medical school training at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, and her emergency medicine residency training at The University of Chicago in 2005. She worked as an attending physician in Atlanta as well as Chicago, before relocating to Houston in 2011. Dr. Henry enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 kids relaxing at home, watching movies and traveling.

The post UTI – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment for UTI appeared first on Houston Urgent Care Center + Infusion (IV) Clinic.

Urgent Care Center Questions Answered Below –

1. What is an Urgent Care Center?
2. What Common conditions are treated at Urgent Care Centers?
3. When Should You Go to an Urgent Care Center?
4. How Do Urgent Care Centers Differ from Emergency Rooms?
5. Do You Need an Appointment at an Urgent Care Center?
6. What Should You Bring to an Urgent Care Visit?
7. What Services Do Urgent Care Centers Provide?
8. How Do Urgent Care Centers Handle Pediatric Care?
9. Are Urgent Care Center Visits Covered by Insurance?
10. How Much Does an Urgent Care Visit Cost?
11. What Are the Advantages of Choosing an Urgent Care Center?

Urgent care centers like enTrust Immediate Care have become an increasingly popular healthcare option for individuals and families seeking immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions. These facilities provide a convenient alternative to emergency rooms (ERs) and primary care physicians.

Urgent care centers offer prompt, efficient, and often more affordable care.

We know you have questions and need answers about urgent care centers and whether they are good for you and your family. Here we answer some of the most common questions about urgent care centers to help you understand when and how to use these services.

Q – What is an Urgent Care Center?

A – An urgent care center, like an emergency room (ER), is a medical facility designed to provide immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions that require prompt attention but are not severe enough to warrant a visit to the ER.
Urgent care centers are typically open during regular hours and sometimes extended hours, including evenings and weekends, making them a convenient option for those who need care outside of regular office hours.

Q – What Common conditions are Treated at Urgent Care Centers?

A – Most urgent care centers like enTrust Immediate Care have the ability to treat most non-life-threatening illnesses and accidents. Below are just a few minor and major illnesses that urgent care centers treat every day.

• Minor fractures and sprains
• Cuts and lacerations requiring stitches
• Flu and cold symptoms
• Ear infections
• Respiratory infections
• Minor burns
• Allergic reactions
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Skin rashes
• COVID-19 infections

A few modern urgent care centers like enTrust Immediate Care offer infusion (IV) therapy and vitamin shots designed to rejuvenate you and your family.

Q – When Should You Go to an Urgent Care Center?

A – While no one can predict when they or their family will need medical care, it is important to know that urgent care centers can treat most of the same illnesses treated in emergency rooms and at your doctor’s office but usually at lower prices.

Urgent care centers are ideal for conditions that require immediate attention but are not life-threatening. If you’re experiencing any of the following, an urgent care center can be the right choice.

• Minor Injuries: Sprains, strains, or small cuts that may require stitches.
• Illness Symptoms: Sudden onset of flu, cold, sore throat, or sinus infections.
• Minor Fractures: Simple fractures that do not involve severe pain or deformity.
• Non-Severe Allergic Reactions: Mild allergic reactions, such as hives or swelling, that do not involve difficulty breathing.

Certain conditions require immediate visit to an emergency room so if you’re experiencing symptoms of a severe or life-threatening condition, such as chest pain, severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, or symptoms of a stroke, you should go to the nearest emergency room or call 911 immediately.

Q – How Do Urgent Care Centers Differ from Emergency Rooms?

A – While both urgent care centers and emergency rooms provide immediate medical attention, they serve different purposes.

Urgent Care Centers are best for non-life-threatening conditions. They are generally faster and less expensive than emergency rooms, with shorter wait times. They employ experienced board-certified physicians and nurses like emergency rooms but most of the Nurse Practitioners (NP) or Physician Assistants (PA) are experienced in non-life-threatening illnesses.

Urgent care centers are designed to handle common medical issues that need prompt treatment but are not life-threatening emergencies.

Emergency Rooms or ERs on the other hand are equipped to handle severe and life-threatening conditions, such as heart attacks, strokes, major trauma, or severe injuries. The doctors at emergency rooms are usually board-certified and experienced in handling life-threatening conditions and traumas and are better equipped to handle these serious health issues.

Also emergency rooms are usually open 24/7 and have the necessary equipment to treat critical conditions.

Q – Do You Need an Appointment at an Urgent Care Center?

A – One of the biggest advantages of urgent care centers is that they typically do not require an appointment. Most urgent care clinics like enTrust Immediate Care, operate on a walk-in basis, meaning you can simply walk in without appointments. This allows patients to receive care when they need it without scheduling in advance. However, some urgent care centers like enTrust Immediate Care Center offer online check-in or appointment options, which can help reduce wait times.

Do you need an appointment to visit an urgent care center? That depends on the situation. If you can schedule your visit, that is usually the better option since you are guaranteed to be seen by a physician at a time of your choosing. But there are times when that is just not possible and you or a family member needs to see a physician right now, you can simply walk in and be seen by a physician at most urgent care centers.

Q – What Should You Bring to an Urgent Care Visit?

A – Like emergency rooms or hospitals, when visiting an urgent care center, it’s important to bring a few essential items to ensure a smooth and efficient visit. Bring these items or having these information readily available will allow your attending physician to be more efficient in diagnosing your illness and prescribing an efficient remedy.

Bring the following when you visit an urgent care center.

• Identification: A government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, to verify your identity.
• Insurance Information: Your insurance card or details to help with billing.
• Medical History: A list of any medications you are currently taking, as well as any allergies or past medical conditions.
• Payment Method: Co-pays or out-of-pocket costs are typically required at the time of service.

Q – What Services Do Urgent Care Centers Provide?

A – Urgent care centers offer a wide range of services beyond treating minor injuries and illnesses. Some of the services commonly provided include the following.

• X-rays and Diagnostic Testing: Many urgent care centers have on-site X-ray machines and laboratories for rapid diagnosis of illnesses and diseases.
• Vaccinations and Immunizations: Common vaccines, such as flu shots, are often available.
• COVID-19: Most urgent care centers administer COVID treatments and vaccinations.
• Physical Exams: Routine physicals for school, sports, or employment purposes.
• Occupational Health Services: Some centers provide services like drug testing, workplace injury treatment, and employee health screenings.
• Prescription Services: Physicians at urgent care centers can prescribe medications as needed.

Q – How Do Urgent Care Centers Handle Pediatric Care?

A – When your little one is not feeling 100%, you as the parent will do everything in your power to help them get better and that includes taking them to see the doctor. Like emergency rooms, many urgent care centers are equipped to treat children, making them a convenient option for pediatric care outside of normal pediatrician office hours.

These centers like enTrust Immediate Care have experienced physicians and other staff trained in pediatric care and are capable of handling common childhood illnesses and injuries, such as ear infections, fevers, and minor cuts, and more.

Q – Are Urgent Care Center Visits Covered by Insurance?

A – Since urgent care centers are less expensive to use and usually charge less than your typical emergency room or hospitals, most insurance plans are happy to cover urgent care visits, but coverage may vary depending on your specific plan.

It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand the details of your coverage, including co-pays and out-of-pocket costs. Urgent care centers typically accept a wide range of insurance plans, and many also offer self-pay options for those without insurance. These self-pay options are usually lower than what emergency rooms or hospitals will charge you.

Q – How Much Does an Urgent Care Visit Cost?

A – The cost of an urgent care visit can vary depending on the services provided and whether you have insurance. On average, an urgent care visit is significantly less expensive than an emergency room visit. For example, a basic visit might range from $75 to $200, while more complex services like X-rays or lab tests can increase the cost.

Always check with the urgent care center you plan to visit about pricing, especially if you are uninsured or have a high-deductible insurance plan. Most urgent care centers are happy to discuss payment options with you when you visit.

Q – What Are the Advantages of Choosing an Urgent Care Center?

A – Based on what we have been discussing thus far, it is obvious that urgent care centers offer several benefits that make them an attractive option for immediate medical care.

Here are a few benefits of using urgent care centers instead of emergency rooms or hospitals.

• Convenience: Extended hours, including nights and weekends, allow you to receive care when it’s most needed.
• Shorter Wait Times: Compared to ERs, urgent care centers generally have shorter wait times.
• Cost-Effective: Urgent care visits are often less expensive than ER or hospital visits.
• Accessibility: With locations across most urban and suburban areas, finding a nearby urgent care center is relatively easy.
• Comprehensive Care: Many urgent care centers offer a wide range of services, making them a one-stop-shop for non-emergency medical needs.

Urgent care centers provide a vital service, bridging the gap between primary care and emergency rooms. Understanding when and how to use these facilities can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re dealing with a minor injury, an illness, or need a routine service, urgent care centers are a convenient and efficient choice for prompt medical attention.

The post Understanding Urgent Care Centers: Answers to Common Questions appeared first on Houston Urgent Care Center + Infusion (IV) Clinic.

HOUSTON, TX – enTrust Immediate Care, Houston, TX-based urgent care center and walk-in clinic, has announced the launch of its redesigned website.

The website is aimed at helping visitors understand the broad range of urgent care services available at the Houston clinic. The new website address is the same as the old website – www.entrustcare.com so that the transition from the old to the new is seamless.

Dr. Kanti Bansal, a board-certified emergency room physician and managing partner at enTrust Immediate Care said the website redesign’s goal was to help visitors locate information quickly and showcase the medical services offered at the clinic.

“enTrust Immediate Care has board-certified physicians and talented support staff with the experience to treat medical emergencies, and we are proud to serve Houston families. Our goal for redesigning the website was to make it easy for visitors to get the information they need quickly and help them know all the services we offer.

“We treat a wide range of illnesses, and the clinic is open daily. We also offer telemedicine services. Appointment scheduling is available should anyone need it, although that is unnecessary as we gladly welcome all walk-ins.”

“We wanted to make sure our patients know the full scope of our medical services and can take advantage of them. Apart from treating various illnesses for adults, we also treat pediatric medical emergencies. We have affiliations with nearby emergency rooms and hospitals for referrals should the need arise.” he added.

enTrust Immediate Care treats illnesses like back pain, fractures, asthma, fever, broken bones, sports injuries, and work-related injuries. The clinic also offers immunizations and vaccinations for various viruses, including COVID, the Flu, and Tetanus.

“We treat a wide range of illnesses, and the clinic is open daily. We also offer telemedicine services. Appointment scheduling is available should anyone need it, although that is unnecessary as we gladly welcome all walk-ins,” Dr. Bansal added.

enTrust Immediate Care’s affordable medical services include sports medicine and employer medical services. We also offer COVID testing, including the rapid 15-minute Antigen Test, Antibody Test, and Molecular (PCR) Test.

More information about enTrust Immediate Care, including all our services, is at https://entrustcare.com.

About enTrust Immediate Care

Houston, TX-based enTrust Immediate Care is located at 9778 Katy Freeway (I-10), Suite 100, Houston, Texas 77055 (Google Map). The clinic can be reached at 713-468-7845 between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM.

The post Houston Urgent Care Center, enTrust Immediate Care Unveils Redesigned Website appeared first on Houston Urgent Care Center + Infusion (IV) Clinic.

By Dr. Kanti Bansal, MD

The History of Tanning

Tanning or spending excessive time in the sun has developed into a huge part of Western ideas of beauty and has been a popular American pastime for decades, but it wasn’t always like that. Throughout history, pale skin was linked to a higher social status that meant that a person didn’t have to endure the sun’s rays from working or living outside.

The societal shift began in 1923 when a fashion designer named Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel was photographed with a suntan after accidentally becoming sunburned on a vacation to the French Riviera. Because of her status in society, bronzed skin became the desired look from then on.

Another designer capitalized on the new tanning fad and launched the first suntan oil in 1927. The first modern indoor tanning bed was introduced in the U.S. in 1978. While paler skin had once been the mark of privilege, tanned skin now signified that you had the time and money to leisurely darken your complexion.

Millions of people have been slathering on baby oil to attract maximum rays since.

Suntanning is certainly not a universally accepted value, however! In Asia, India, or the Middle East, there are plenty of people who are happy to embrace their natural skin tone and shield it from the sun with extra clothing and protection.

The Dangers of Tanning

When you spend time basking in the sun this summer, just remember that among those golden rays lies a hidden danger known as ultraviolet (UV) light.

The truth is that tanned skin is damaged skin. Any change in the color of your skin after time outside, whether sunburn or suntan, indicates damage from UV rays.

The statistics are frightening. Suffering one or more blistering sunburns during childhood can cause skin cancer and more than doubles your chances of developing potentially deadly melanoma later in life.

Recent research shows that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. According to the American Cancer Society, about 96,480 new melanomas, the most serious kind of skin cancer, will be diagnosed this year in the U.S., and about 4.3 million people will be treated for basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers.

In addition to skin cancer, sun damage can cause cosmetic damage as well.

Research has repeatedly shown that up to 90 percent of sagging, wrinkling and dark spots are a result of how much sun exposure you’ve sustained. One study, in particular, found that UV exposure is responsible for 80 percent of visible facial aging signs.

What is Sunburn and What Causes It?

The sun releases both UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays are shorter and are responsible for the development of skin cancer. UVA rays are longer and penetrate deeper into the skin. These rays are responsible for the signs of aging.

Our skin contains melanin which can be thought of as the body’s natural sunscreen. The skin senses sun damage from UV light and the body sends melanin into surrounding cells in an effort to shield them from further harm.

People with darker skin have more melanin at their disposal, while those with pale skin are quicker to burn.

A sunburn is the skin’s response to UV damage, but it’s not only red skin that you should be wary of. Any change in the color of your skin is a sign of sun damage, even that golden tan you crave.

When your body senses damage to the skin, it launches a counterattack sending surpluses of blood to the area to help healing. This is what causes the skin sensitivity and pain of sunburn, or in worse cases, little pockets of skin form protective bubbles over the tissue and fill with liquid in a process we know as blistering.

Sunburn Myths Busted

Myth: I won’t get a sunburn on a cloudy day or in the shade.
Truth: Actually, not only can you still get a sunburn, but it might also be worse. The sun doesn’t need to be shining brightly to still be scorching. UV rays may also be partially blocked in a shady spot by tree leaves, but they frequently bounce off reflective surfaces and hit your skin. Fresh snow nearly doubles your UV exposure and can even burn your eyeballs!

Myth: If I have dark skin, I don’t need sunblock.
Truth: A naturally higher level of the pigment melanin does afford some protection from the sun, but it doesn’t mean that sun damage is not happening, especially over prolonged periods of time.

Myth: Clothing protects my skin from the sun.
Truth: Darker colors and tighter weaves offer protection, but you’re not completely safe by any means. UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) clothing and hats are specially designed to provide more photo protection and block UV radiation so look for those when you are planning your day in the sun.

Myth: Skin protection is a “tomorrow problem.”
Truth: Young people often lack the motivation (or just plain common sense) to protect their skin from sun damage. Yet the time for prevention is now. If you have young children, stay on top of daily sunscreen duty. Most adult skin cancers develop as a result of poor sun protection during earlier years of life.

Stages of Sunburn:

Dr. Daniel Atkinson at treated.com has proposed 4 stages of sunburn.

• Exposure: Unprotected skin can be damaged by the sun’s UV rays in as little as 15 minutes. How long it takes to develop a sunburn depends on a number of factors such as the time of day and how light one’s skin is.
• Burn (from 2 hours): Exposure to UV rays inflicts damage on skin cells, which sparks an inflammatory response in the body. This comes in the form of redness.
• Pain (from 6 hours): The next stage is pain and soreness in the affected areas.’ How severe this is and how long it lasts for depends on the extent of the burn.
• Peeling (from 2 days onwards): When the worst of the pain has subsided, peeling may occur; usually after a couple of days. This can last for up to a week, again depending on how bad the burn is or how large an area it covers.

How to Protect Yourself from Sunburn

An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure!

The sun’s rays are the strongest and most harmful during the middle of the day between 10am and 4pm. Prevention is easy and straightforward.

How can you be outdoors while staying protected?

• It’s best to plan those outside activities earlier in the morning or later in the day. Another option is to have an umbrella, a tent covering, or to tie that hammock to some shade under the tree. The best defense against sunburn is avoiding the sun or staying in the shade.
• Take cover! A hat can shade the face, scalp, and neck and protect the ears and neck. A t-shirt and long shorts or a beach cover-up are also good choices (since a long-sleeved shirt and long pants are not the most practical). Sunglasses also protect the eyes from the damage of UV rays.
• Check the UV Index Scale. This tool can predict how quickly your skin will burn if you don’t use proper protection. Every day, the National Weather Service measures ultraviolet levels, then converts their findings into a scale that indicates exposure risk.
• Determine your risk! A person’s natural skin color affects their reaction to exposure to the sun. In 1975, Harvard dermatologist Thomas B. Fitzpatrick devised the Fitzpatrick scale which described the common tanning behavior of various skin types, as follows:

This handy UV Index Guide by the EPA is useful as well.

The Low Down on Sunscreen

You’ve heard it all before, but it is true. All of the damaging effects of the sun can be greatly reduced by using sunscreen!! Sunscreen comes in lotions, sprays, wipes, or gels so you can choose the application that is easiest for you to use.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following:

• Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher: This lets you know how well sunscreen protects you from burning.
• Broad spectrum: The product should protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.
• Water resistant: A label of “water-resistant” means you are protected for 40 minutes, while “very water-resistant” is good for 80 minutes.
• Apply sunscreen generously 30 minutes before going outdoors. Don’t forget the ears, nose, lips, and the tops of your feet!
• Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours throughout the day, especially after swimming or exercising even if it says “waterproof”.
• For small areas such as your nose or lips, consider also applying a sunblock (sunblock is a thick, white cream that contains zinc and titanium) that physically blocks almost all sunlight from your skin.
• Be generous! You probably need more than you think. Most adults need about 1 ounce (the amount that would fit in a shot glass) to adequately cover their bodies.

Does Makeup Protect Against Sunburn?

Short answer is NO. It does not.

Makeup is not enough to protect your skin — even if it has a high SPF. Unless you’re willing to wear an entire ounce of foundation atop your face, stick with a standalone sunscreen.

Things That Can Make Sunburn Worse

• Medications: Antibiotics like tetracyclines, sulfonamides, and fluoroquinolones can make sunburn worse. Other prescription drugs, over-the-counter pain relievers, herbal remedies such as St. John’s Wort, perfumes, anti-aging skincare products with retinol creams can increase sensitivity to the sun. Check with your pharmacist or do your homework to figure out if your medication can make your sunburn worse.
• Higher altitudes can make sunburn worse because you are closer to the sun! So, if you go hiking in the mountains in the summer, use extra protection.
• Being nearer to the equator means more direct UV ray exposure so if you are going on that Caribbean vacation in the winter, use extra protection.

Symptoms of Sunburn

• Painful skin that is tender and feels warm or hot to the touch
• Changes in skin tone, such as pinkness or redness
• Swelling
• Small fluid-filled blisters, which may break
• Headache, fever, nausea, and fatigue if the sunburn is severe
• Eyes that feel painful or gritty

Just like there are types of breaks or fractures in bones, there are types, or degrees, of burns. While the short term, supposed “symptoms” of first- and second-degree burns differ, the lasting effects of the two, and, in fact, any burn, are identical.

Classifications of Sunburn

Burns are classified according to the amount of tissue they affect and how deep they are.

First-Degree Burns – A first-degree burn is considered the least serious type of burn because it injures only the top layers of skin, called the epidermis.
Skin with a first-degree burn is red, sore, and sensitive to the touch. It may also be moist, slightly swollen, or itchy. When lightly pressed, the reddened skin whitens, which is called blanching.

First-degree sunburns do not usually blister or leave a scar.

Second-Degree Burns – Second-degree burns are more severe than those of a first degree, tricking people into thinking it does more damage. Also called partial-thickness burns, these are identified by the depth of the skin’s layers.

This type of sunburn can swell and blister, which may indicate damage to deep skin layers and nerve endings. Second-degree burns may also radiate heat from the skin’s surface and produce fluids from the blisters. In severe cases, an individual with a second-degree sunburn may experience fever, vomiting, dehydration and secondary infection, which often lead to hospitalization.

If your skin begins peeling after a sunburn, it’s because your body is attempting to get rid of damaged cells that could become cancerous. When the body registers severe damage, all those cells are sacrificed. Your skin cells die off in mass to be replaced by new, healthy skin cells.

Sunburn Treatment

The majority of sunburns will heal on their own without any further treatment. However, you can take the following steps to treat your sunburn at home:

• Take over-the-counter pain medicine such as ibuprofen to decrease pain and swelling.
• Put a cool wet cloth, petroleum jelly, aloe, or moisturizing lotion (one with no perfume) on your sunburn.
• Some sunburn sprays and lotions contain a numbing medicine that takes the pain away for a little while. Doctors usually say you shouldn’t use these because many people develop an allergic reaction to the numbing medicine.
• If there are open blisters, you may want to use an antibiotic cream to prevent infection.
• Don’t pop your blisters. Allow the blisters to heal. Blistering skin means you have a second-degree sunburn. You should not pop the blisters, as blisters form to help your skin heal and protect you from infection.
• Keep your sunburned skin out of the sunlight for several weeks, especially if it’s peeling. The new skin underneath is very thin and sensitive.
• Take frequent cool baths or showers to help relieve the pain. As soon as you get out of the bathtub or shower, gently pat yourself dry, but leave a little water on your skin. Be careful! Water that’s too hot can strip the natural oils of the skin—not to mention adding to your pain.
• Use a moisturizer that contains aloe vera or to help soothe sunburned skin. If a particular area feels especially uncomfortable, you may want to apply a hydrocortisone cream that you can buy without a prescription. Do not treat sunburn with “-caine” products (such as benzocaine), as these may irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction.
• Drink extra water. A sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of the body. Drinking extra water helps prevent dehydration.

Does Milk Help Heal Sunburn?

There are many claims that milk can heal a sunburn.

In theory, this sounds good. It has Vitamin D and Vitamin A which are antioxidants. It also contains lactic acid which is a gentle exfoliant.

Unfortunately, there are no clinical studies to back up using milk as a treatment for sunburn or to prove its healing properties, but as long as you don’t have dairy sensitivity, there’s little harm in giving it a try. The cool milk compress will even help pull heat away from the skin.

Sunburn Urgent Care Treatment

When do I need medical care at an urgent care center like enTrust Immediate Care, and how will it be treated? Seek emergency medical treatment for sunburn if –

• The burn is accompanied by blisters and covers a large portion of your body (over 20%). Your doctor can assess your burns and order medication for inflammation and a medicated cream to assist with recovery and prevent infection.
• Your skin shows signs of infection, such as fever, pain, pus, or red streaks leading away from an open blister. Peeling sunburned skin or blisters that have opened can expose the new skin underneath to germs. An infection would require antibiotics.
• The burn is accompanied by a high fever, chills, or nausea. These could be signs of sun poisoning and require IV fluids to treat dehydration and further emergency care.
• Occasionally, a sunburn is severe enough to warrant admission to the hospital emergency room, especially when there is severe facial swelling, severe burns, nausea and vomiting, headache, confusion, faintness, severe dehydration, or infection that has gotten into the bloodstream.

Fear of sunburn doesn’t need to keep you out of the sun completely. Some simple measures of prevention can decrease your risk of skin cancer and as an added benefit, it can keep you looking younger than your years! And who doesn’t want to slow down the clock of aging?

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Dr. Kanti Bansal, MD is a founding member of enTrust Immediate Care and an Emergency Medicine Physician in Houston, TX. He has over 20 years of experience in the emergency medical field. Before becoming an attending physician, he served as Chief Resident of his emergency medicine residency at Metropolitan Hospital Center in Manhattan, New York. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a minor in Computer Science from Brandeis University in Massachusetts. Dr. Bansal worked as an emergency room physician for several years at many hospitals in the Greater Houston Metro area, including Memorial Hermann Southwest, Memorial Hermann Southeast, Memorial Hermann Memorial City, St. Catherine’s Hospital in Katy, Texas, as well as St. Mary’s Hospital in Beaumont, Texas.

The post Sunburn: Causes, Symptoms, Severity, and Treatment appeared first on Houston Urgent Care Center + Infusion (IV) Clinic.

By Dr. Kanti Bansal, MD

What Is Hypertension?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a very common condition affecting almost half (45%) of the U.S. population, or 108 million adults. Hypertension occurs when the pressure of the blood flowing through the arterial blood vessels is consistently high. This can cause many serious health consequences, including a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, headaches, nosebleeds, and kidney problems.

Hypertension is diagnosed when there are at least three separate elevated blood pressure readings (as defined below), on different days and at different times of the day.

High blood pressure accounts for about 32 million doctor office visits and about 1 million emergency room visits per year.

Less than half of patients with hypertension have their blood pressure adequately controlled.

The first step in controlling your blood pressure is to become educated about this condition, how to monitor it, and how to correct it.

Understanding Your Blood Pressure Numbers

Your blood pressure measurement is reported as two numbers separated by a slash. The top number, or systolic, refers to the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart is expelling blood to the body. The bottom number, or diastolic, refers to the pressure in the blood vessels while the heart is relaxed, or in between heartbeats.

The blood pressure is measured in units of millimeters of mercury, or mmHg. The blood pressure is typically recorded by an electronic or battery-operated machine that a patient can use at home. It can also be measured manually which requires the use of a stethoscope, with a device called a sphygmomanometer; this is usually performed in a doctor’s office.

Normal blood pressure is now considered to be less than 120/80 mmHg. Blood pressure readings that are consistently elevated above this are considered to be hypertension.

According to the American Heart Association, systolic blood pressure of 130 mmHg or above, or diastolic blood pressure of 80 mmHg or above is considered stage 1 hypertension. More information is available at www.heart.org.

Risk Factors for Hypertension

Some factors make it more likely for you to develop high blood pressure.

1) Dietary intake

A number of dietary items can raise blood pressure. A big dietary culprit in causing high blood pressure is high salt or sodium intake.

Adding extra salt to your food, or ingesting too many sodium-rich foods can result in high blood pressure readings. Many people are unaware of how high the salt content can be in the foods they regularly ingest.

High salt food items include many canned soups, frozen dinners, canned vegetables, various sauces, and salad dressings, cheeses, bread, and tomato juices. Restaurant foods tend to be particularly high in salt.

The recommended daily sodium intake should be less than 2,300 milligrams; some experts recommend the daily value should not exceed 1,500 milligrams. The extra salt that is ingested causes fluid and water retention, which puts more pressure on the blood vessels and results in elevated blood pressure.

Caffeine and alcohol use can also raise blood pressure. Caffeine should be limited to the equivalent of two cups of coffee per day. Caffeine can also be found in colas, teas, chocolate, and energy drinks. Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase the systolic and diastolic blood pressures by about 10 mmHg from your normal baseline. The usual onset of caffeine stimulation occurs between 30 to 120 minutes after drinking it.

Men should not have more than two alcoholic drinks per day, and women should not have more than one alcoholic drink per day. An alcoholic drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.

Tobacco use can increase blood pressure. The nicotine causes increased stress and pressure on the heart that leads to elevation of blood pressure.

Decongestants, steroids, and anti-inflammatories can raise blood pressure. Decongestants cause narrowing of the blood vessels which increases blood pressure.

Steroids and anti-inflammatories (such as ibuprofen) can increase blood pressure by causing an increase in fluid retention.

Dietary supplements and herbal remedies can raise blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, you should check with your physician before starting to take any over-the-counter supplements or herbs.

Ingestion of black licorice can raise blood pressure. Licorice contains the chemical called glycyrrhizin acid, which causes low potassium and raises blood pressure. Usually, a person would need to be eating at least one ounce per day of the black licorice for one to two weeks to see the rise in blood pressure. Nonetheless, one should ingest licorice cautiously and sparingly.

2)Age

Blood vessels stiffen as we age and can lead to elevated blood pressure readings.

3)Family History of Blood Pressure

Family history of high blood pressure – genetic factors can make it more likely for you to develop high blood pressure

4)Diabetes

Elevated blood sugar can affect all the blood vessels of the body and can contribute to high blood pressure. Diabetics are twice as likely to develop hypertension than those without diabetes.

5)Kidney or thyroid problems

Kidney and thyroid issues can affect the hormones in the blood and make it more likely for you to develop high blood pressure. Treating the underlying kidney or thyroid problem with medication can sometimes help the blood pressure to be adequately controlled.

6)Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea, in which a patient stops breathing multiple times per night, can promote high blood pressure and heart rhythm problems as well. Sleep apnea can be diagnosed by tests ordered by your physician, including an overnight sleep study, or polysomnography test.

If you have sleep apnea, there are ways to help control it, which in turn help bring the blood pressure under better control.

Signs and symptoms of high blood pressure

Sometimes a person may have no symptoms of high blood pressure at all. For this reason, hypertension is sometimes called “the silent killer,” because high blood pressure can be life-threatening, regardless of how you are feeling.

Often, however, a person may note headache, flushing or warm sensation, nosebleeds, or dizziness. These can be signs that the blood pressure is elevated. You should check your blood pressure at home or have it checked at your doctor’s office. If in fact your blood pressure is high, especially on more than one occasion, it may warrant the use of blood pressure-lowering medication on a daily basis.

When is high blood pressure an emergency?

High blood pressure can become an emergency depending on your symptoms and the length of time that the blood pressure remains elevated.

Symptoms can occur with even mildly elevated blood pressure, but if your blood pressure remains above 180/120 mmHg, this is called a hypertensive crisis and you should seek immediate medical attention. Serious consequences, such as heart attack and stroke can occur if the blood pressure is not lowered quickly and carefully.

What to do if you suspect a hypertensive crisis

If you suspect a hypertensive crisis, assess yourself for concerning symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, headache, blurred vision, slurred speech, or difficulty moving the arms or legs.

If any of these symptoms occur, immediate evaluation at the closest urgent care center is necessary. You should not drive yourself to the hospital; ideally, you should call an ambulance, or have someone drive you there. You will be given medication, possibly intravenously, to lower your blood pressure and reverse your symptoms.

You will need to be monitored closely. Blood work will be done to look for potential damage to the heart, kidney, and other organs, and to help determine the underlying cause of the blood pressure elevation. Your condition can change from stable to unstable quickly, so it is important to be fully evaluated and tested in a medical setting.

How to manage hypertension

The first step in managing high blood pressure is lifestyle modification. Eating a healthy diet and increasing exercise can go a long way in improving and sometimes curing high blood pressure.

Lifestyle changes include following a low sodium diet, with sodium or salt intake at least below 2,300 milligrams per day, ideally between 1,500 to 2,300 milligrams per day.

Limiting alcohol to one alcoholic drink per day for women and two alcoholic drinks per day for men also helps control blood pressure. Alcohol can stimulate the heart, and in excessive amounts, can weaken or damage it.

Limiting caffeine and tobacco intake, and ideally, abstaining completely from these products helps control the blood pressure as well. Caffeine stimulates the heart by raising blood pressure and heart rate. The nicotine in the tobacco constricts the blood vessels, thereby raising the blood pressure.

More information on maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle is available on www.cdc.gov and www.nhlbi.nih.gov.

If your blood pressure remains elevated despite lifestyle modification, your physician may prescribe blood pressure pills, also called anti-hypertensive medication.

There are many different classes of these pills available; each has benefits and potential side effects. Your physician will work with you to find the proper medication and dosage that minimizes side effects. Many of these drugs are available in generic form rather than brand name, making them more affordable.

Common High Blood Pressure Medications

Some of the commonly used anti-hypertensive medications are described below. You can find out more information on www.mayoclinic.org.

Diuretics, also called “water pills” – this group acts by causing the kidneys to release extra sodium and water from the body by urinating it out, thereby reducing the blood pressure. Commonly used examples include hydrochlorothiazide and furosemide. Side effects can include low potassium levels, kidney problems, and dehydration.

If you are taking a diuretic, you may also be prescribed a potassium supplement, since your potassium levels can be reduced in addition to the sodium and water levels in your body. Usually, routine blood work should be performed while you are taking a diuretic, to ensure that your potassium and kidney function remains normal.

Typically, it is recommended that a diuretic is a first-line medication to use for someone diagnosed with high blood pressure. If you already have significant kidney problems, this class of medications may not be ideal for you.

Beta blockers – this group of medications acts by slowing the heart rate down and relaxing the force of the heartbeats, which lowers the blood pressure. Commonly used medications in this group include atenolol, metoprolol, and propanolol. Common potential side effects include fatigue and low heart rate, or pulse.

Calcium channel blockers – this group of medicines prevents calcium from entering the heart cells.

Without calcium, the heart does not contract as forcefully and the blood vessels are more relaxed, thus blood pressure is lowered. Common examples of calcium channel blockers include amlodipine, diltiazem, and verapamil. Side effects can include constipation and leg swelling.

Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, also called ACE inhibitors – these medications work by blocking the production of angiotensin II, which normally produces a hormone that raises the blood pressure. In this way, the blood pressure is lowered.

Commonly used ACE inhibitors include lisinopril, enalapril, and benazepril. Potential side effects can include cough and high potassium levels. The kidney function should also be monitored while taking this medication. Additionally, this medication should be avoided during pregnancy.

Angiotensin II receptor blockers, or ARBs – this group of medication is closely related to ACE inhibitors as mentioned above. The ARBs block the action of angiotensin, which is a chemical that narrows the blood vessels.

When angiotensin II is blocked, the blood vessels are relaxed and the blood pressure is lowered. Similar to the ACE inhibitors, these medications can cause elevated potassium levels and can affect kidney function; these values should be closely monitored with routine lab work. Commonly used ARBs include losartan, olmesartan, and valsartan.

Monitoring your blood pressure

If you have high blood pressure, it is a good idea to invest in a home blood pressure monitor so that you can track your blood pressure on a regular basis. These monitors can be purchased at your local drug store. These monitors are designed to be easy to use. They are typically automated; with the push of a button, the cuff inflates and then digitally displays your blood pressure as measured in mmHg, and heart rate (pulse) in beats per minute.

The blood pressure machine has an inflatable cuff that is placed on the upper arm, or on the wrist. The machine type that uses the upper arm is usually the most accurate. Make sure that the cuff is not too loose or too tight on your arm, otherwise, this can make the blood pressure reading inaccurate.

You can track your blood pressure first thing in the morning, before you take any pills, to get an idea of your actual baseline blood pressure reading. You can check your blood pressure an hour or two after you take your morning blood pressure medicine to see if the medication is starting to work to lower your blood pressure. You can check your blood pressure in the evening, to see how the stresses of the day have affected your readings.

As mentioned above, your blood pressure can be significantly elevated without any symptoms. Even if you take blood pressure-lowering medications, it does not guarantee that your blood pressure will stay under good control.

Other factors can raise your blood pressure even when you are taking these medications, including low back pain, physical or emotional stress, or excess salt or caffeine intake.

Blood pressure medication dosages may need to be adjusted to help maintain adequate control throughout the day. Some blood pressure medication may need to be taken up to four times per day for best results.

When preparing to check your blood pressure, you should first sit quietly for a few minutes and rest. If you check your blood pressure right after rushing in from exercising or after a stressful incident, it will likely be elevated and not reflect your actual baseline.

You should have your feet resting on the floor and not have your legs crossed.

Try to avoid checking your blood pressure soon after having your morning coffee., as this can also raise your blood pressure.

The arm with the blood pressure cuff should be placed on with your arm outstretched and palm upright, with your upper arm aligned near your heart level for most accurate results; your arm should not be dangling down at your side while the monitor is calculating your blood pressure.

From time to time, you should check your blood pressure in each arm, and make sure the readings are the same or close to the same; if you notice a large difference in the blood pressure readings between the two arms (greater than 10 mmmHg difference in either the systolic or diastolic number) notify your doctor, as this may warrant further testing for a possible blockage in the arteries of the arm.

When preparing for your doctor’s visit, it is a good idea to bring a written blood pressure log listing the date and your blood pressure readings, so your physician can review the trend and determine if any medication adjustments need to be made.

If you have been noticing that your blood pressure readings are fluctuating a lot, or if your blood pressure is not under good control despite taking your medication as prescribed, you should bring the actual blood pressure cuff to the doctor’s visit, to compare your cuff reading against the office’s blood pressure device, which is calibrated and routinely checked for accuracy.

Sometimes, with the usual routine and repeated use, the home blood pressure cuffs can lose their accuracy. Changing the battery may help to recalibrate the machine and restore the accuracy of measurement; other times, the machine may need to be replaced if it is not measuring similarly to the doctor’s office blood pressure reading.

Compliance with blood pressure medication

For millions of people, taking one or more daily blood pressure medications is a way of life. It is vital for the proper blood pressure pill to be prescribed so that you can easily tolerate it. Considerations in choosing the best medication include cost, potential side effects, medication interactions, and frequency of dosing.

When you are prescribed a new blood pressure medicine, you should closely monitor and record your blood pressure morning, noon, and night, to get an idea of the trend of your blood pressure and how you are reacting to the medication.

If your blood pressure is still elevated despite taking your medication as prescribed, the dosing or frequency of dosing may need to be adjusted. In some cases, a second, or third blood pressure medication may need to be added to best control the blood pressure.

See also: 6 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Colon Cancer.

You should also watch out for potential side effects from your medications. These can include headache, dizziness or lightheadedness, leg swelling, cough, or fatigue, among many others. Your doctor can work with you to minimize these side effects; sometimes you may have to be switched to a different blood pressure medication that you can better tolerate.

If your blood pressure is still not under good control despite taking your medication as prescribed, your doctor may order more involved testing to look for secondary causes of high blood pressure. These can include underlying kidney or hormonal problems that need to be addressed separately.

In many cases, if you lose weight, your blood pressure will improve. You may be able to reduce the dose of your blood pressure medication, or even stop it completely; if you continue your current dose, you may notice that your blood pressure is too low and that you are getting dizzy. This should be discussed with your doctor, and you should not change or stop your medications on your own.

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat your specific medical condition. Only a medical provider who examines you and is aware of your medical issues should prescribe medication for you.

if your blood pressure is elevated and you are having symptoms like headache, weakness, dizziness, pain, etc. — you should go to your nearest emergency room or urgent care center, enTrust Immediate Care being a good choice. if you are unable to go safely to an urgent care center, you -should call 911.

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Dr. Kanti Bansal, MD is a founding member of enTrust Immediate Care and an Emergency Medicine Physician in Houston, TX. He has over 20 years of experience in the emergency medical field. Before becoming an attending physician, he served as Chief Resident of his emergency medicine residency at Metropolitan Hospital Center in Manhattan, New York. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a minor in Computer Science from Brandeis University in Massachusetts. Dr. Bansal worked as an emergency room physician for several years at many hospitals in the Greater Houston Metro area, including Memorial Hermann Southwest, Memorial Hermann Southeast, Memorial Hermann Memorial City, St. Catherine’s Hospital in Katy, Texas, as well as St. Mary’s Hospital in Beaumont, Texas.

The post Hypertension and High Blood Pressure: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Houston Urgent Care Center + Infusion (IV) Clinic.

Many people do not drink enough water on a daily basis, and so are frequently dehydrated.

Here are seven of the key health benefits of drinking more water to maintain a proper level of hydration.

1. Weight Loss

Drinking more water during the day helps you to lose weight in two ways.

The first is that it prevents your body from retaining water weight, thus slimming you down.

Drinking more water also helps to keep your kidneys functioning optimally. When your kidneys are filtering at full capacity, stress is taken off of the liver, which can then more easily perform its function of metabolizing fat that has been stored.

See also: How Urgent Care Centers Are Different From Freestanding Emergency Rooms (ER).

For these reasons, getting enough to drink is critical when trying to lose weight.

2. Improved Cognitive Function

Like many other tissues in the human body, the brain is mostly made up of water. It is therefore essential to stay properly hydrated if you want your brain to function at its peak capacity.

Studies have linked dehydration to cognitive impairments that range from decreased memory and mental fatigue to slowed reaction time and mood swings.

Drinking the right amount of water is one of the best things that you can do to keep your brain in top shape, and even minor dehydration can have negative effects on it.

3. Better Joint Health

By hydrating the tissues that move against each other at joints within the human skeletal system, water can have great benefits for joint health.

It can also help to improve joint function by promoting nutrient delivery to these tissues, helping to keep them from wearing out prematurely.

While it will not necessarily cure all joint health issues, water is a key part of keeping the joints in your body as healthy as they can be.

4. More Energy

Getting through the day without becoming exhausted can be difficult enough on its own, but being dehydrated will only make the problem worse.

Because water plays key roles in both metabolism and the flushing of toxins from the system, a lack of it can cause reduced overall body function, leading to a feeling of weariness and fatigue.

Staying hydrated will help you to maintain your energy levels by allowing your body to burn the fuel it needs efficiently while removing waste materials.

5. Better Skin Health

By both acting as a natural moisturizer and removing the toxins that frequently cause skin outbreaks, water helps to keep skin looking naturally young and healthy.

While this is more cosmetic than it is a critical component of health, the condition of your skin is also a good indicator of the condition of your body as a whole.

If your skin is clear and smooth, you can be relatively sure that the toxins are being properly flushed out of the more vital parts of your body.

6. Better Nutrient Absorption

Aside from removing the waste materials produced by the processing of nutrients, water also helps to absorb nutrients into the body.

From the saliva that begins the digestion process to the absorbing of nutrients in the small intestine, water is present at nearly every stop of the processing of food in the human body.

For this reason, it is essential for proper nutrient absorption that you drink more water daily to give the body enough water to carry out these processes.

This is true of all nutrients, from minerals to carbohydrates.

7. Improved Muscle Health and Development

For those who are trying to build muscle mass, water is at least as important as a set of dumbbells.

Water has many functions in promoting the health and development of muscle tissues. These range from flushing lactic acid from these tissues after an intense anaerobic workout to facilitating the delivery of the nutrients that are required to rebuild torn muscle fibers and grow larger muscles.

Proper hydration can also help to prevent cramping and improve muscle strength by delivering electrolytes to the muscle tissues.

Conclusion

Of course, these are merely a few of the hundreds of individual reasons that drinking more water is critical for human health.

If you are prone to only drinking small amounts of water during the day, consider increasing your intake to start seeing these and many other health benefits.

In case you are wondering whether or not you are getting enough water, a good general rule of thumb is that the average man will require 3 liters (0.8 gallons) of water per day, while an average woman will require 2.2 liters (0.6 gallons).

For the sake of convenience, you can also apply the common rule of drinking 8 glasses of water that are 8 ounces each on a daily basis, though this will not quite get you to the recommended averages.

If you exercise intensely or live in a hot climate, your needs may be greater, as you will lose water in the process of sweating under these circumstances.

The post Seven Health Benefits of Drinking More Water Daily appeared first on Houston Urgent Care Center + Infusion (IV) Clinic.

But many local emergency centers hope you don’t know this!

Besides how these facilities bill for their services, below are basic similarities and differences between emergency centers or emergency rooms and urgent care centers you should know about.

Emergency Centers and Emergency Rooms

1. Open Every Day
2. Staffed by Doctors
3. Provides Expedited Hospital Admission
4. On-Site Lab
5. Open 24 Hours / Day
6. Imaging: CT Scan & X-Ray
7. Typical Insurance Co-Pay: $100 to $250
8. Typical Cost/Visit: $750 to $3500

Urgent Care Centers

1. Open Every Day
2. Staffed by Doctors
3. Provides Expedited Hospital Admission
4. On-Site Lab
5. Open 12 to 14 Hours / Day
6. Imaging: X-Ray
7. Typical Insurance Co-Pay: $35 to $75
8. Typical Cost/Visit: $150 – $450

As you can see, the major difference is in the cost you will incur from visiting these facilities.

How to Know if a facility is Urgent Care or Emergency Center

Not sure if the clinic is an emergency room, emergency center or an urgent care facility? In seeking the appropriate source for acute medical care, answer the following questions –

1. Is the patient’s condition life-threatening and requires the use of emergency medical resources?
2. Will the patient require hospitalization after medical care is received?

If the answer “Yes” to these questions and it is possible to do so, the patient should be taken to an emergency center. If the answer is “No”, the patient can receive excellent care and substantial cost savings at urgent care facilities like enTrust Immediate Care™.

When You Need Acute Medical Care

Under state regulations, if the name of the medical facility includes the word “Emergency”, it is an Emergency Center. Urgent care centers typically will include “Urgent Care” or “Immediate Care” in their names, but they do not use the word “Emergency”.

See also: 6 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Colon Cancer.

One source of confusion is this: in many advertising formats, Houston’s freestanding emergency centers and emergency rooms continue to identify themselves with “Urgent Care”. While this may be accurate from the perspective of the actual medical care being provided, they fail to clarify that the charges for the care provided are in line with those charges incurred in hospital emergency rooms.

These are typically five to eight times more than the charges incurred at urgent care centers for the same level of care. This can also be verified with major health insurance carriers.

enTrust Immediate Care™ is Healthcare Delivered Promptly, Professionally, Conveniently & Affordably!

The post How Urgent Care Centers are different from Freestanding Emergency Rooms (ER) appeared first on Houston Urgent Care Center + Infusion (IV) Clinic.

An estimated 37% of those of European ancestry have Fructose Malabsorption Disorder, and numbers are unknown in other populations*.

What exactly is Fructose Malabsorption and what are the symptoms?  Is there a cure?

What is Fructose Malabsorption Disorder?

Fructose Malabsorption used to be known as Dietary Fructose Intolerance, this term has been abandoned for two reasons.

Firstly, to avoid confusion with Hereditary Fructose Intolerance which is a genetic condition that can result in liver damage; secondly, an “intolerance” is a condition in which absorption takes place successfully, but the body cannot process the substance.

See also: Eat these 10 Super Foods to Live Longer.

For example, those with Lactose Intolerance can absorb lactose, but once absorbed the body cannot metabolise it. Those with Fructose Malabsorption cannot absorb the fructose, and it is this lack of absorption that results in symptoms.

As reported in Gerald Huether’s “Tryptophan, Serotonin and Melatonin”, when Fructose Malabsorbers consume fructose, it travels through the digestive system unabsorbed, eventually reaching the colon intact where it is broken down by the body’s intestinal flora into hydrogen and carbon dioxide.

Fructose arriving in the lower intestine intact also interferes with the efficient absorption of the essential amino acid tryptophan.

Tryptophan is known as an “essential” amino acid because the body requires it, but cannot synthesize it. Tryptophan must be obtained from dietary sources.

Those with Fructose Malabsorption who ingest fructose have significantly lower levels of tryptophan in their blood than members of the general population.

As tryptophan itself is a mood stabilizer and is also necessary for the body’s production of serotonin and melatonin (two important neurotransmitters), Fructose Malabsorbers score significantly higher for depression than those without Fructose Malabsorption.*

What are the symptoms of Fructose Malabsorption Disorder ?

The initial symptoms of Fructose Malabsorption are gastrointestinal and are remarkably similar to those of Lactose Intolerance.

Ingestion of foods containing fructose can cause bloating, flatulence, abdominal discomfort and diarrhea. The severity of symptoms varies widely from person to person.

These symptoms are the result of the bacterial breakdown of the fructose in the colon into carbon dioxide and hydrogen and generally manifest within a few hours of ingestion of foods containing fructose, though some experience delayed reactions, making it difficult to connect consumption to symptoms.

As fructose interferes with the body’s ability to absorb tryptophan, the imbalance of neurotransmitters results in depression, irritability, and anxiety usually a day or two after ingestion.

Again, these symptoms can be experienced in varying degrees and on varying timelines depending on individual tolerance and the quantities of fructose ingested.

I Think I Might Have Fructose Malabsorption Disorder. What Should I Do Now?

An easy, harmless first step in determining if you may have Fructose Malabsorption is an Elimination Foodplan. Simply, this involves eliminating from your diet anything that has any amount of fructose for a period of about six weeks.

If you do have Fructose Malabsorption, you will start to notice a positive difference in the symptoms within the first week. As the weeks progress, you should feel better overall.

After the six weeks have elapsed, try introducing a small amount of fructose-containing food. If you have Fructose Malabsorption you will generally have a gastrointestinal reaction within a few hours.

If you have no reaction, but the Elimination Foodplan did make you feel better, try another fructose-containing food. Many Fructose Malabsorbers can tolerate certain foods that others cannot. Everyone has their own tolerance threshold.

If you have a reaction and suspect you might have this condition, make an appointment with your doctor.

Fructose Malabsorption can be diagnosed with a breath test. Usually, a hydrogen breath test is used, but ensure you also receive a methane breath test.

In approximately ten per cent of all Fructose Malabsorbers, the bacteria in the colon produce methane rather than hydrogen.

It is important to be formally diagnosed as Fructose Malabsorbers often have other digestive conditions such as Lactose Intolerance or Celiac Disease.

You may have to be diligent, as Fructose Malabsorption is not as widely known or understood as Lactose Intolerance, even amongst healthcare professionals.

Is Fructose Only Found in Fruit?

Fructose is found in all fruits, to lesser and greater degrees. Apples and pears have the highest amounts and are universally intolerable to those with Fructose Malabsorption.

Fructose, however, is not the only form of this sugar that Fructose Malabsorbers must avoid. Fructans, which are chains of fructose molecules ending in a glucose molecule are also unabsorbable.

This widens the field of troublesome foods to include grains like wheat, spelt, kamut, and brown rice; as well as vegetables such as onions, leeks, asparagus and artichokes.

As the source of the gastrointestinal symptoms is the bacterial breakdown of fructose in the colon, any food which adds to the bacterial population just makes things worse.

This means Fructose Malabsorbers must avoid any foods which have active bacterial cultures like yoghurt, or are probiotic or prebiotic like chickory (inulin).

If I Have Fructose Malabsorption, Will I be Off Wheat and Fruit Forever? Are There Pills Available, Like Those for Lactose Intolerance?

The idea of an Elimination Foodplan is to eliminate all foods that have even the smallest potential to cause problems.

This allows your body to reach a state in which you know for certain it is not being affected by any fructose presence. Once this state has been established, you can reintroduce foods containing fructose (or fructans) one at a time in small doses.

It is important that foods be introduced in small amounts so that any reaction is minimal. The food should be consumed only once, then strict attention must be paid to any changes in your body over the proceeding days.

When reintroducing foods, it is a good idea to begin with foods that contain the least amount of fructose or fructans. This will minimize the possibility of a drastic reaction.

Also keep in mind that commercially frozen foods often contain different amounts of fructose than their fresh counterparts, and cooking can alter the amounts of fructose as well.

Fresh strawberries, commercially frozen strawberries, and cooked strawberries may affect you to differing degrees.

Through systematic experimentation, you will eventually develop a list of “forbidden foods”, and “only in moderation foods” that will be unique to you.

Currently, there is no medicine, no pill and no therapy for Fructose Malabsorption other than fructose avoidance.

However, most Fructose Malabsorbers can ingest small amounts of fructose with reduced symptoms provided they also consume an equal or greater amount of glucose at the same time.

The reason for this is unknown, but it is only effective in small amounts. Because of this phenomenon, small amounts of sucrose (which is a one-to-one ratio of glucose to fructose) can be tolerated.

It is, in essence, fructose with a glucose “dose” built in. Sucrose is in most homes in such forms as table sugar, brown sugar, maple syrup or molasses.

Honey contains both pure glucose and pure fructose, as well as sucrose. A pinch of powdered glucose should be added as “insurance” as the ratio in honey may vary.

Powdered glucose, often sold under the name of dextrose, causes no negative reaction in Fructose Malabsorbers and can be used for sweetening without concern.

Network with Others!

Fructose Malabsorbers, like many other groups, have found each other online. Forums, bulletins boards and web groups abound.

These are great venues for support, recipes and tips from fellow sufferers, but beware. As this condition is still widely unknown and misunderstood, many forums unwittingly circulate misinformation and supposition.

If you wish to connect with others, bookmark several communities and read their postings regularly. Compare their information with your own research and your doctor’s advice and choose your group accordingly.

If you wish to meet others in person and there is no Fructose Malabsorption group in your area, consider joining a Celiac Disease group or a Lactose Intolerance group.

This will give you the opportunity to connect with others who contend with navigating a restrictive diet. They will have helpful advice on adapting and changing your favourite recipes and provide emotional support for making the transition of lifestyle.

Grocery stores and pharmacies are continually selling greater and greater varieties of stomach remedies.

Likewise, the media abounds with startling statistics of depression and anxiety being found in the general population. How many cases of undiagnosed Fructose Malabsorption are there?

With fruit and wheat being such widespread staples, and High Fructose Corn Syrup being added to so many processed foods, it is only a matter of time before Fructose Malabsorption Disorder comes to the forefront of public attention.

Until then, those who contend with this problem must take the initiative: educating themselves, sharing information, and raising awareness among their neighbours and healthcare professionals.

* “Tryptophan, Serotonin and Melatonin: Proceedings of the 9th Meeting of the International Study Group of Tryptophan Research on tryptophan, basic aspects and practical applications, held Oct. 10-14, 1998 Hamburg, Germany. by Gerald Huether

The post Fructose Malabsorption Disorder appeared first on Houston Urgent Care Center + Infusion (IV) Clinic.

The event is designed to give as many educators as possible, in both cities the opportunity to receive their shots, free. Note: Free Flu shots are available while supplies last.

All you need is your job identification if you are an educator, and we have you covered. This is our way of saying than you for all you do for the community.

See also: Why enTrust Immediate Care is Different.

Get more information and register free for Paris or Texarkana.

Date: Monday, October 28, 2019.
Time: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM CDT.
Locations:
1. Paris, TX – SignatureCare Emergency Center – Paris, 3055 NE Loop 286, Paris, TX 75460 (See Map).
2. Texarkana, TX – SignatureCare Emergency Center – Texarkana, 2001 Mall Drive, Texarkana, TX 75503 (See Map) .

The post enTrust Urgent Care Center Offers Free Flu Shots to Paris, Texarkana Educators appeared first on Houston Urgent Care Center + Infusion (IV) Clinic.

HOUSTON, TX – Houston, TX-based urgent care center and walk-in clinic, enTrust Immediate Care has extended its hours of operation to midnight and hired additional frontline staff to help it better serve the increased number of patients it sees daily.

Located on Interstate 10 and Bunker Hill in West Houston, enTrust Care said there has been a marked increase in the number of patients seeking COVID PCR and Rapid Antigen tests due to the prevalence of COVID-19 Delta variant in the Houston, TX area.

Dr. Kanti Bansal, a board-certified emergency room physician and managing partner at enTrust Immediate Care said the change was necessary to help the urgent care center better serve its patients.

“We have been experiencing an increase in the number of patients walking into the center and we wanted to ensure that we are better able to take care of those patients as quickly as possible so we felt the changes were necessary,” he said.

enTrust Immediate Care, located at 9778 Katy Freeway, Suite 100, Houston, Texas 77055 (Google Map) provides urgent medical care to whole families including adults, children, and pediatrics.

The urgent care center and walk-in clinic treats minor and major medical emergencies including allergy and immunology, cardiovascular disease, tooth pain, dental abscess, and minor dental trauma, gastrointestinal disease, gynecology and women’s health issues, infectious diseases and neurological disorders, renal and urinary disorders, occupational health, pediatric issues, skin disorders, traumas, wound care, and more.

enTrust Immediate Care also offers Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine at no out-of-pocket cost to patients that qualify.

Dr. Bansal said the center is seeing an influx of patients requesting COVID tests, in addition to other urgent medical services it provides.

“More Houstonians appear to be getting the message about COVID-19 and are coming in themselves or bringing their children in to get tested for COVID. For weeks we have been seeing this huge increase in the number of patients requesting various medical services,” he said.

“Our goal is to ensure that we are able to take care of our patients in a timely manner while providing best-in-class medical care hence the need for these changes,” Dr. Bansal continued.

About enTrust Immediate Care

Houston, TX-based enTrust Immediate Care is located at 9778 Katy Freeway (I-10), Suite 100, Houston, Texas 77055. It can be reached at 281-306-5925 between 7AM and Midnight daily. Additional information is on our website at https://entrustcare.com.

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