From smart wearables and apps to technology-enabled blood pressure cuffs, staying connected to your health is easy in 2020. But monitoring is only part of the equation. Add on-demand care that’s available right from your mobile device and you’re able to not only monitor, but act on any health questions or concerns in order to keep feeling your best. 

“Think of your virtual visit a little differently than an in-office visit,” says 98point6 physician Chere McCormick, DO. “With virtual care, the patient has the power to deliver us the information needed to drive towards the best possible outcome. Ownership of your health puts you in the driver’s seat, which is exactly where you want to be.”

WHAT EXACTLY DO I NEED TO HAVE ON-HAND FOR MY 98POINT6 VISIT?

If you’ve already received care through 98point6, you know that getting diagnosis and treatment is not only easy, it can be done from anywhere—at your desk, on a bus, on vacation. And all you need to have a productive visit is your smartphone. 

“That said,” says Dr. McCormick, “The more accurate and timely information you can provide us, the more efficient and effective the physician can be.”

MUST-HAVES

Together, these essentials below frame the big picture of your health and ensure any treatment we might add to your existing Care Plan works well for you. And the good news is that with a little planning, you can make sure all of this information is on your mobile device. So when you do need to start a visit—even if it’s on a beach or at a work site—it’s all right there at your fingertips.

1. Up-to-date medication list. Ideally, this includes name, dosage and frequency of use.
   • TIP: Dr. McCormick suggests snapping a picture of your medication labels so you always have the details when you’re ready to start a visit. 
2. Past Medical History/Current Medical Conditions. Because each medication you take is associated with a particular condition, you’re part-way there. However, if you’ve also dealt with a significant or chronic condition in the past—even if the condition is currently well-controlled and especially if you no longer take medication for it—remember to share this potentially relevant information with the physician (otherwise, they will never know!).
   • TIP: If you’re a new 98point6 patient, it’s important to provide your medical history and medications as accurately as possible with the Automated Assistant at the start of your first encounter. Already bypassed that part in a previous visit or have updated information to add? No worries. At your next visit, let the physician know you’d like to re-address your medical history and they’ll be happy to help you revise accordingly. 

BONUS

• Vital signs. “This is where smart devices and wearables are beneficial,” says Dr. McCormick. “Having access to information like pulse rate, temperature and blood pressure gives the physician valuable insight on your current physical state.”

GOOD TO HAVE

• Digital thermometer. Changes in normal body temperature, measured by a thermometer, suggests you are fighting an infection. Our Automated Assistant may ask you for a temperature reading in cases where it may be relevant. 
• Scale. Measuring your weight, along with getting a close estimation of your height, can give us a lot of insight about your health. Your weight is also a critical factor in determining your unique dosing of medication. 
• Digital blood pressure cuff. Most of these check not only your blood pressure, but also your pulse; these readings are equally important in times of illness and as a measure of overall health. You can purchase this tool easily online or at your local drug store. 
• Wearables. Beyond the aforementioned vital signs, many smart watches now capture markers of health like physical activity and sleep. 
  • TIP: Female health tracking can be a key piece of information for your visit, so try to keep track of your cycle using your wearable device or one of the many apps available for that purpose. 
• Digital otoscope. “This is a new technology that I’ve personally seen used by many families already to enhance the virtual care they’ve received through 98point6,” says Dr. McCormick. “A digital otoscope mimics the tool we use in the office to examine the ear canal. It connects to your smartphone or computer and shows us the inside of your ear through picture and video. No more guessing whether or not you have an ear infection!”

BONUS

• If you have a chronic condition like asthma or diabetes, there are specific connected devices that may help in your day-to-day management. Start a dialogue with your physician to learn what might work best for you, or ask us at 98point6.

The post How to Succeed with Virtual Care Part 2: Tools and Tips to Make the Most of Your 98point6 Visit appeared first on 98point6.

“There are few clear answers as we learn to navigate life post-lockdown. Until there’s a vaccine, we can’t make risks go away, but we can take steps to minimize them, based on our individual circumstances and comfort level.” 

– David McCune, MD, MPH

THE RULES STILL APPLY

“We’re excited to reconnect with the world and each other, but COVID-19 hasn’t gone anywhere,” says 98point6 physician David McCune, MD, MPH. “That means applying the same general principles to plans for summer activities.” These include: 

• Distance is safer than close: Maintain a distance of 6 feet from individuals outside your household.
• Open is safer than closed: Outdoor areas reduce the risk of spread compared to enclosed spaces.
• Masks help everyone: You can spread COVID-19 even if you don’t feel sick. Masks reduce the risk of infecting others.
• Hygiene helps: Stay vigilant about hand-washing, and stay home when you feel sick.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR RISK IS KEY

The first step before venturing out or mingling with others is acknowledging your personal and family risks. These include the health factors (being over age 65 or having underlying conditions like diabetes or asthma) that put you or any members of your household at a higher risk for COVID-19-related complications. While it’s unfair, higher personal or family risk means treading extra carefully—and maybe saying “no” more than “yes” to summer travels and activities.

PUTTING ADVICE INTO ACTION 

“The more you know about your surroundings and the company you keep, the more effective you can be at assessing and minimizing your risk,” says Dr. McCune. “Being informed, observant and unafraid to ask questions—of business owners, service providers and friends—are important skills to master right now.” 

So how do you make the most of your summer safely and responsibly? We’ve put together some helpful thought-starters for activities you may be considering. 

GATHERINGS WITH GUESTS

DAY OUTINGS

VACATION

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU

At home or on-the-go, if you’re experiencing any medical concerns or simply feel the need to connect with a primary care physician, 98point6’s virtual care clinic is available 24/7 from wherever you are.

The post Post-Lockdown Summer: How to Get Out and Stay Safe appeared first on 98point6.

CARE FOR THE NEW NORMAL

Even as the world slowly gets back to life, the time-, cost- and hassle-saving benefits of 98point6 will continue to make it a worthwhile first stop in your healthcare journey. Whether you’re at home, at work or on the go, our physicians are available 24/7 to offer diagnosis and treatment, expert guidance and trusted reassurance.

How can you make the most of each visit? We asked 98point6 physician Chere McCormick, DO for some thought-starters. 

Q:  HOW IS VIRTUAL CARE DIFFERENT THAN AN IN-OFFICE VISIT? 

A:  With on-demand care that’s available right from your device, anytime, from anywhere, you’re able to not only get diagnosis and treatment for a particular condition, you’re also able to monitor—and most importantly—act on any health questions or concerns so you can keep feeling your best. Ownership of your health puts you in the driver’s seat, which is exactly where you want to be.

Q: WHAT EXACTLY DO I NEED TO HAVE ON-HAND FOR MY 98POINT6 VISIT? 

A: The more accurate and timely information you can provide the Automated Assistant with whom you connect with at the start of your visit, the more efficient and effective the 98point6 physician can be. To have the most productive experience, I would recommend coming prepared with the following: 

MUST-HAVES

Together, these frame the big picture of your health and ensure any treatment we might add to your existing Care Plan works well for you.

TIP: With a little planning, you can make sure all of this information is on your mobile device. So when you do need to start a visit—even if it’s on a beach or at a work site—it’s all right there at your fingertips.

• Up-to-date medication list. Ideally, this includes name, dosage and frequency of use.
  • TIP: Snap a picture of your medication labels so you always have the details when you’re ready to start a visit. 
• Past Medical History/Current Medical Conditions. Because each medication you take is associated with a particular condition, you’re part-way there. However, if you’ve also dealt with a significant or chronic condition in the past—even if the condition is currently well-controlled and especially if you no longer take medication for it—remember to share this potentially relevant information with the physician (otherwise, they will never know!). 
  • TIP: Provide your medical history and medications as accurately as possible with the Automated Assistant at the start of your first encounter. Already bypassed that part in a previous visit or have updated information to add? No worries. At your next visit, let the physician know you’d like to re-address your medical history and they’ll be happy to help you revise accordingly. 

BONUS

• Vital signs. This is where smart devices and wearables are beneficial. Having access to information like pulse rate, temperature and blood pressure gives the physician valuable insight on your current physical state. 

GOOD TO HAVE

• Digital thermometer. Changes in normal body temperature, measured by a thermometer, suggest you are fighting an infection. 
• Scale. Measuring your weight, along with getting a close estimation of your height, can give us a lot of insight about your health. Your weight is also a critical factor in determining your unique dosing of medication. 
• Digital blood pressure cuff. Most of these check not only your blood pressure, but also your pulse; these readings are equally important in times of illness and as a measure of overall health. You can purchase this tool easily online or at your local drug store. 
• Digital otoscope. This mimics the tool we use in the office to examine the ear canal. It connects to your smartphone or computer and shows us the inside of your ear through picture and video. No more guessing whether or not you have an ear infection!

BONUS

• If you have a chronic condition like asthma or diabetes, there are specific connected devices that may help in your day-to-day management. Start a dialogue with your physician to learn what might work best for you, or ask us at 98point6. 

The post How to Succeed with Virtual Care Part 2: Tools and Tips to Make the Most of Your 98point6 Visit appeared first on 98point6.

“Socialization is at the core of being human. Keeping physical distance right now is key to protect ourselves, our loved ones and those more vulnerable in our communities; however, equally important is our need and desire to interact with each other.”
– Michael Grabinski, MD, MPH

What is social distancing?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is encouraging Americans to remain out of congregate settings (including the workplace and school), avoid mass gatherings (including joyful events like weddings and meaningful rituals like religious observances) and strive to maintain a distance of approximately 6 feet from others when possible. 

Why should we do it?

By preventing those who may be infected with the novel coronavirus from coming in close contact with healthy individuals, social distancing reduces opportunity for disease transmission. Not only does this protect those who are high-risk, it helps to minimize the current surge on our healthcare resources. Recent studies* have suggested that the majority of COVID-19 cases were caused by people with mild or no symptoms spreading the virus to others. This happens because people can be infected and contagious for 2 to 4 days**, without noticing any symptoms themselves.

Who should do it? 

Everyone. Even if you’re young, healthy and not in a high-risk group, there is still a chance that you are carrying the virus, minus symptoms, and could be unknowingly spreading it to the more vulnerable communities. Public health experts agree that maintaining social distance right now, with its potential to slow the infection rate, is as altruistic as it is necessary. We can all do our part to stop the spread and protect our families, friends and communities.

How can we do it better? 

1. Let’s start with the name 

The idea of “social distancing” is kind of a paradox. In these uncertain times, when we absolutely need each other more than ever, we’re expected to live, work and learn apart? 

“It’s all in how you frame it,” says Dr. Grabinski. “That’s why the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that we refer to it as ‘physical distancing’ vs. ‘social distancing.’ Because while the goal is to prevent physical transmission of the virus, the hope is that people will remain connected socially—and we need that more than ever right now.” 

2. Distancing 2.0

Though overuse of technology has been associated with feelings of isolation and loneliness, technology is now the bridge to keeping us connected—to everything from essential medical care to our workplaces and classrooms to fulfilling social lives—all of which will empower us to get through this with strength and positivity. 

3. Staying social

During these uncertain times, it’s easy to fall into a rut physically, mentally and emotionally. “One way to care for yourself and enhance your overall well-being,” says Dr. Grabinski, “is through meaningful interactions that support each other and our own desire to still feel human.” The corresponding health benefits are backed by research. Some examples: 

• The Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the world’s longest studies on health and happiness, has found that participants who were the most satisfied in their relationships at age 50 were the healthiest at age 80. 
• The “Roseto Effect” refers to famous research done in the town of Roseto, PA, where a small community of Italian immigrants whose low heart attack rates from 1955 to 1963 mystified researchers when compared to Americans with similar risk factors. The statistics, however, began to shift towards the higher national average in later decades as the immigrants moved further from family and community. The conclusion? Strong community ties had a health protective benefit. 
• A 2018 study from the European Society of Cardiology found that loneliness is bad for the heart and a strong predictor of premature death. It’s worth noting that the higher risk, which impacts both men and women, is associated with feeling lonely, not necessarily living alone. Bottom line: the mind is a powerful force over matter. 

4. Staying healthy

Relationships aren’t the only thing that matters right now. Taking good care of yourself, physically and mentally, should always be a top priority. Things to consider: 

• Have a sense of routine: Consistency can help enhance our sense of control at a time when we feel powerless. At a minimum, try to develop routines around eating at regular intervals, exercising and sleeping. 
• Manage your anxiety: Chronic stress can make the body more susceptible to illness. Research shows that practices like meditation, yoga and guided imagery can turn down the body’s physiological stress response and even turn on the body’s “relaxation response.” 
• Get enough sleep: Sleep boosts our immune system and helps the body fight off infection. 7–9 hours of sleep for adults has been shown to improve memory and cognitive health, as well as emotional and hormone regulation. 
• Take advantage of virtual care: Whether you suspect COVID-19, the flu or have a minor primary care issue, like a rash or pink eye, 98point6 is the best first stop to evaluate your condition. By taking advantage of our text-based method of care, an illness can be contained when it counts and you can avoid unnecessary exposure—while still getting the trusted guidance, prescriptions and peace of mind you need.

Sources:

*https://science.sciencemag.org/content/early/2020/03/24/science.abb3221

**https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.02.19.20025452v2.full.pdf https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.02.19.20025452v2.full.pdf

The post 6 Feet of Separation: How Can We Do It Better? appeared first on 98point6.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a measure of the excess force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as they move blood through the body. Although it is normal for blood pressure to fluctuate throughout the day, prolonged high blood pressure can cause significant health problems, including heart attack and stroke. 

“Most people associate hypertension with the most common risk group, middle-aged males,” says Dr. Sarah Simmons. “But the reality is, any of us could be at risk, and because this potentially serious condition often causes no symptoms, it’s important to be informed and get your blood pressure checked periodically.”

BLOOD PRESSURE BASICS

• Blood pressure is given in two numbers. The top number is the pressure in the arteries when the heart is contracting and pushing blood out. The bottom number is the pressure when the heart is relaxing and refilling. 
• Normal blood pressure should be less than 120/80. 
• Hypertension is diagnosed as blood pressure of 140/90 or higher.

UNDERSTANDING HYPERTENSION

• There are actually two different types of hypertension. “Primary” hypertension—the focus of this piece—is its own medical condition. “Secondary” hypertension is the sign of another illness, such as thyroid disease, alcoholism or sleep apnea. With secondary hypertension, when the underlying condition is treated, blood pressure should go down. 
• Hypertension is nicknamed “the silent killer” because most of the time, there are no symptoms. The only sure way to find out if your blood pressure is high is to have it checked. 
• Long-term health effects from hypertension can be avoided if you maintain good control.

SHOULD YOU BE CONCERNED?

Some of these risk groups may surprise you. Here’s what Dr. Simmons has to say: 

Men 35+: This is the most commonly recognized risk group. But while genetics and hormone differences are fixed, some lifestyle factors can be controlled. For example, men are more often overweight and tend to exercise less. They are also less likely to see their doctor regularly, so blood pressure changes can go undetected.

20s and over: The incidence of younger people in their 20s with high blood pressure is continuing to rise. This is concerning because the damage caused by the higher pressures is starting earlier in life, leading to the earlier development of health complications ranging from heart disease to vision and kidney problems.

Women 65+: Post-menopause, the chance of a woman developing hypertension goes up significantly due to hormonal fluctuations and other related changes; for women in this age group, the risk surpasses men. High blood pressure in older women is the biggest risk factor for cardiovascular disease, so it’s crucial to keep it under good control. 

Pregnancy: Pregnancy itself is not a risk for hypertension per se, but new onset hypertension can develop during pregnancy because of the hormone changes and extra stress on the body. This is called gestational hypertension. In addition to impacting the pregnant individual (and possibly leading to a potentially dangerous complication called preeclampsia), the high blood pressure increases the risk for decreased blood flow to the baby, placental damage and premature delivery. 

African Americans: This population is nearly 2x more likely to develop hypertension; African Americans are also more likely to develop the condition earlier and for it to be more severe. Cultural and lifestyle factors play a role, but research also shows that genetic factors increase this risk.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

• Everyone should have their blood pressure checked, regardless of age, at least once a year. If you are high risk, your physician may suggest you check it more frequently. 
• If you already do have high blood pressure and you’re thinking about getting pregnant, start a conversation with a physician ideally beforehand. Blood pressure control impacts the health of the baby and some medicines are not safe during pregnancy. 
• While some risk factors like family history or gender can’t be changed, there are lifestyle modifications that can have a big impact on lowering blood pressure. Eating foods low in salt and fat, quitting smoking and drinking alcohol in moderation can all help. 
• Weight loss has the single biggest effect on improving hypertension—even a 10 lb. loss can make a huge difference. 
• If you are struggling to maintain good control, a prescribed medication may be an option. Talk to your doctor or start a visit with a 98point6 physician to consider whether it’s the right choice for you.

The post Should You Be Concerned About Hypertension? appeared first on 98point6.

1. HOW DO PHYSICIANS TREAT VIA A TEXT-BASED APP? HOW IS THAT EVEN POSSIBLE?

At 98point6, physicians use a similar approach found in traditional in-person primary care where information about your symptoms and concerns are collected by clinical staff before the doctor enters the room. In our case, the 98point6 Automated Assistant gathers information from the patient on why they are requesting a visit today. Our doctors are setting the standard for text-based care, and are trained to evaluate the information collected, leveraging their clinical expertise within the encounter with the patient to determine if an in-person exam, labs or other diagnostics might be necessary for diagnosis and treatment.

In certain cases, it can also be more comfortable for patients to discuss awkward issues or ask embarrassing questions via text rather than face-to-face—this often results in a more honest, productive encounter.

Patient safety is our number one priority, so if there is evidence that an in-person visit is necessary, we’ll provide them with the appropriate next steps for the care they need. We’re here 24/7, so you can always return to us with follow-up questions.

2. HOW IS THIS DIFFERENT FROM HAVING A PCP? DOES THIS MEAN I DON’T NEED A PCP ANYMORE?

98point6 is not meant to replace your primary care physician. In fact, we still recommend you see your doctor at least once a year for an in-person physical exam and regular screenings like a pap smear or mammogram. 

Aside from the above, a lot of illnesses (colds, stomach bugs, rashes, pink eye, UTIs) can be treated without an in-person visit, which can save you time, travel, stress—and even cost. And if you simply have medical questions—or nagging worries—our board-certified physicians are more reassuring (and accurate) than asking Dr. Internet. 

If you do seek care through 98point6, we encourage you to keep your physician in the loop. Because you can access the transcripts of your 98point6 visits at any time from the app, the information is always at the ready when you visit your in-person provider, so you can keep them informed of any new diagnoses or prescriptions, or dosing adjustments to a medication you have been taking.

Our goal at 98point6 is to be a collaborative partner with your primary care physician, and a more convenient option to seek care when you need it.

3. ARE THERE LIMITATIONS ON WHAT YOU CAN AND CAN’T TREAT?

As providers of text-based virtual care, there are some conditions that we’re not able to diagnose, examine or treat. For instance, if you are having chest pain or experiencing an emergency, you will need to be evaluated by an in-person doctor. We can help you understand when that might be, and help you figure out the next best step.  Some medical conditions, like autoimmune diseases and ADHD, require diagnosis and follow-up by specialists. 

In terms of treatment, we understand it’s frustrating if a 98point6 physician is unable to prescribe a particular medication. We make clinic policies based on the most evidence-based administration of prescriptions and antibiotics, as well as regulations that prohibit us from prescribing controlled substances. These guidelines are all a part of upholding our dedication to high-quality patient care. Visit our FAQs to learn more on this topic.

BOTTOM LINE: Virtual care with 98point6 makes it easy to get a better handle on your health. And once you realize how simple it is, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

The post How to Succeed with Virtual Care Part 1: How We Treat via Text appeared first on 98point6.

THE REALITY

“According to the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), if you are suffering from a viral illness and it’s treated as bacterial (with antibiotics), there will be no benefit,” says Dr. Jones. Frequent use of antibiotics can result in a decreased impact over time—meaning they won’t be as effective when you actually do need them. Also worth considering: antibiotics may come with side effects (upset stomach, loss of appetite), and as with any medication, there’s always potential for an allergic reaction.

WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL?

The use and overuse of antibiotics in food, medications and industry is among the most concerning trends in healthcare over the last 50 years. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) each have statements describing the importance of preventing the overuse and over-prescribing of antibiotics.

DR. JONES SAYS:

Given the information noted above, it’s important that physicians adhere to established guidelines when upholding the highest standards of patient care. 

As a physician, I want my patients to feel better. I also want to make sure they feel heard and understood, and are provided with all the information they need to safely and effectively get to the bottom of their medical issues. This starts by setting the proper expectations around which treatment is most appropriate for viral (or non-bacterial) illnesses. 

ANTIBIOTICS ARE NOT EFFECTIVE AGAINST: 

• Common cold
• Viral sinus infection (almost all sinusitis is viral) 
• Viral sore throat
• Viral bronchitis
• Influenza
• COVID-19

DR. JONES SAYS:

IF YOU HAVE A VIRAL ILLNESS:

The best thing a physician can do is support the body while it fights the illness, which can last up to 7–14 days. This means treating the symptoms such as hacking cough, congested sinuses and sore throat so you have a better day-to-day experience and can get the nightly rest you need.

IF YOU HAVE A BACTERIAL ILLNESS:

Antibiotics may be the preferred course of action. Trust that your physician will take each visit on a case-by-case basis and evaluate whether antibiotics are appropriate, as well as the fact that the treatment that worked in the past may not be appropriate today.

STILL NOT GETTING BETTER?

It’s not uncommon to get a secondary infection when your immune system is already compromised. The beauty of 24/7 text-based care through 98point6 is that if you aren’t feeling better—or if you start feeling worse—you can start a follow-up visit as soon as you need. At that time, we’re happy to address whatever new or lingering symptoms you may be experiencing, always with the goal of providing you with the highest standard of care. 

Wondering if your symptoms may be related to an infection? Start a visit now.

The post 98point6 Physician Erin Jones, MD on Why Antibiotics Aren’t Always the Best Medicine appeared first on 98point6.

Q: Why am I getting so many headaches? 

Dr. Heugel says: Most headaches are caused by simple lifestyle factors like stress, eye strain, lack of sleep or caffeine withdrawal. Other physiological factors like your monthly menstrual period or even seasonal allergies may also be the culprit.

If you have headaches that occur recurrently (i.e., over and over again) and tend to be more severe or intense, you may suffer from migraines or a chronic headache disorder. It’s a good idea to check in with a physician for an official diagnosis.

Q: What’s the best treatment for a headache?

Dr. Heugel says: I typically recommend patients take some time to rest and make sure to drink plenty of fluids (dehydration is a very common cause of headaches!). Over-the-counter pain medicines like ibuprofen, naproxen or acetaminophen can also help a lot. Relaxation training and acupuncture are other ways some choose to address their headache symptoms. Sometimes just being in a quiet room with dim lights can make a difference.

Q: What exactly is a migraine and how is it diagnosed?

Dr. Heugel says: As opposed to a typical/regular headache, migraines tend to be more severe or intense, sometimes causing nausea or vomiting…or even other strange symptoms like unusual smell aversions or sensitivity to light or sound. Many individuals have an aura sensation before their migraines where they basically sense that a headache is about to come on—and they are usually right.

People who suffer from migraines are usually fairly confident and accurate in their self-diagnosis, especially because headache disorders often run in families. That said, severe headaches always deserve a medical evaluation and an official diagnosis from a physician.

Q: When is a headache cause for concern?

Dr. Heugel says: As with anything health-related, if you ever find yourself experiencing symptoms more severe than usual, or note a major change in the pattern, you should consult a physician. Major “watch-outs” include:

• Very sudden onset of severe headache
• Vomiting with headaches
• “Worst headache of my life” (High-intensity headache that feels different)
• Headaches increasing in severity or intensity over time
• Changes in speech or ability to communicate
• Difficulty staying awake
• Other symptoms also occurring like fever, weakness, rash, stiff neck

Got a nagging headache, or experiencing them with more regularity? A 98point6 physician can help you rule out other illnesses and guide you toward a treatment plan with no appointments, no travel and no waiting. Even when it turns out to be a regular headache (which occurs the vast majority of the time), it often feels reassuring to talk it over with a medical professional. Start a visit now.

The post When Is a Headache Cause for Concern? We Asked 98point6 Physician Jud Heugel, MD appeared first on 98point6.

WHY FIRES ARE A CONCERN 

Thanks to warmer, drier climate conditions across the globe, “wildfire season,” which traditionally peaks in August and September, is becoming a year-round threat. In the U.S., the fires themselves are also getting bigger and consuming more acreage, particularly in the west—meaning more smoke and pollutants are spreading across more states and affecting more people than ever before. 

With the burning of trees, vegetation and building materials, a complex mixture of potentially dangerous gases and microscopic particles are released into the atmosphere. Both the particles, which have the ability to penetrate deep into the lungs, and the smoke can cause a variety of health symptoms, ranging from mild to severe.

WHO IS MOST AT RISK?

The overall risk is highest if you live in close proximity to an active wildlife fire, where the smoke will be heaviest. Within that population and beyond, those especially susceptible include: 

• Children 
• Pregnant individuals and their developing babies
• Elderly 
• Anyone with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart or lung disease 
• Anyone with a history of chronic respiratory illness (including asthma and COPD)

HOW YOU CAN TAKE CHARGE

BEFORE

If you live in or near an area prone to fires, it’s important to have a plan in place in advance of the dry season. Factors to consider: 

• If you or a family member is in one of the higher risk groups, consult a physician. Ask about specific symptoms that may be of concern if and when wildfires start, and ask them to prescribe any medications or refills that may be needed. 
• Read up on how you can prepare your home, from stocking up on non-perishable food and bottled water to clearing flammable objects and materials from a radius around your house. 
• Update emergency and first aid kits at home and in your car. If you wear contact lenses, it’s not a bad idea to keep an old pair of glasses handy in your glove compartment, backpack or purse. 

DURING

Should wildfire threats become a reality: 

• Regularly monitor air quality reports, like this nationwide resource from the EPA, as well as local visibility guides (which assess levels of particles in the air). 
• Pay attention to the news for pending public health messages, evacuation instructions and road blockages. 
• Be informed about precautions to stay indoors to best protect yourself. For example, experts advise against cooking with gas or burning candles, which could contribute to indoor air pollution, or running the vacuum, which would further stir up dust particles that may have gotten into your home. If you have to go outside, change your clothes and consider rinsing out your eyes when you return indoors.
• Be mindful. Seek immediate care if you or someone in your household experiences any of the following symptoms: 
  • A cough that is persistent or worsening
  • Unusual shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Significant weakness or fatigue

HOW 98POINT6 CAN HELP

The wildfires are unpredictable, but if and when they do strike, our U.S.-based, board-certified physicians are available for non-emergency medical assistance including: 

• Diagnosis and treatment of milder symptoms associated with the smoke, such as cough or sore throat
• Refills of asthma or COPD medications, such as inhalers
• Prescription of a peak flow meter to better monitor lung function
• Answers to general questions about the short- and long-term effects of smoke exposure
• Advice on symptoms to watch out for, such as chest pain or tightness
• Recommending air filters and how to best use them in your home

If you, your family or friends have been displaced by wildfires or live in areas prone to wildfires, download 98point6 for 24/7 access to care for mild symptoms or general health questions. 98point6 is not for emergencies.

The post Wildfire Season: We’re Here for You appeared first on 98point6.

Defined: A breast cancer screening recommended for women after a certain age and/or depending on family history. Since guidelines differ, talk to your doctor about what’s best for you.

Why it seems scary: For a “non-invasive” test, it’s pretty…personal. And the thought of compressing breast tissue between two plates sounds more than a little intimidating.

Dr. Hsiung breaks it down: The reality is that breast cancer is highly treatable in its early stages—and mammograms are typically extremely effective in detection and saving lives. The compression is only for about 30 seconds at a time while x-ray images are taken from different angles; the whole test should take no longer than 20-30 minutes total.

Helpful tips: 

• BEFORE – Avoid scheduling your mammogram in the week before your menstrual period when breasts are more tender and sensitive. You can also take ibuprofen about 30–40 minutes before the screening to help minimize the pain. 
• DURING – Anxiety makes any pain worse. Follow the instructions given by the technician, breathe slowly and try not to worry about your results. If you are prone to fibrocystic breasts, you are more likely to experience discomfort. It’s okay to let your technician know and communicate with them during the procedure to find the best approach.

COLONOSCOPY

Defined: An important colon cancer screening procedure that’s recommended once every 10 years (provided there are no abnormalities), starting at age 50. The colonoscopy takes about an hour, and most centers will keep you for an additional hour or so in recovery.

Why it seems scary: A long, flexible, tubular instrument with a tiny camera on the end is inserted…into the rectum. And before THAT can happen, patients must go through a bowel prep involving a restricted diet and a prescribed laxative.

Dr. Hsiung breaks it down: Yes, you can expect to have frequent bowel movements during the prep and that is probably not how you want to spend a day off from work. Just remember this part of the process is crucial so everything can be fully visualized. (Think of it as one of those trendy cleanses everyone is talking about!) During the colonoscopy itself, you are completely sedated, so it’s painless and you’re unaware of what’s happening—although closely monitored by the anesthesiologist and gastroenterologist the entire time.

Helpful tips:

• BEFORE – Schedule when you have at least a couple of days off and access to a bathroom in the comfort and privacy of your home. 
• AFTER – Plan on taking it easy for the rest of the day and not driving. You may feel some mild cramping and bloating afterwards but it usually resolves quickly.

A NEW OR CHANGING MOLE

Defined: Spots, marks or growths on the skin that can appear or change over time. Abnormal moles with certain characteristics may indicate skin cancer.

Why it seems scary: Skin cancer!

Dr. Hsiung breaks it down: With age and sun exposure, new moles or growths will occasionally appear on the skin, which can be normal—but with so much heightened awareness around cancer, specifically melanoma, it’s easy to get worried. Keep in mind that only about 10-20% of diagnosed melanomas are thought to have cropped up in association with a preexisting abnormal mole. Also: while we worry most about melanoma, because it is the most fatal form of skin cancer and seems to be increasing faster in prevalence, when detected early it is generally curable with surgery or other treatments. Although that is all reassuring, it’s important to still pay attention to suspicious lesions and bring them to your doctor’s attention in a timely manner, especially because people with atypical moles have anywhere from a 3- to 20-fold increased risk of developing malignant melanoma later.

Helpful tips:

• Familiarize yourself with the general landscape of your skin so you can recognize anything new or changing. If you do get screened annually because of your risk profile, ask your dermatologist if there are any particular moles worth paying closer attention to. 
• Remember the ABCDEs of abnormal moles, which include: Asymmetry, an unclear Border, unusual or multi Color, 6mm or more Diameter and any Evolving change in any of the above.

LINGERING COUGH

Defined: A cough is your body’s reflex to protect against things that irritate the throat and airways; often a dominant symptom in a respiratory infection such as a cold.

Why it seems scary: When a cough drags on…and on…after an illness, patients wonder if the medication didn’t work, if they’re still sick or maybe it’s a sign of something serious.

Dr. Hsiung breaks it down: A lingering cough after you’ve had a cold can be very annoying but it’s a normal reflex. A viral chest cold (acute bronchitis), for example, can cause cough lasting an average of 3 weeks. That said, if you’re coughing consistently for 4 weeks or more, or having pain when breathing or shortness of breath, you should bring it to a doctor’s attention. They may recommend a chest x-ray to be safe.

Helpful tip:  

• You can help speed up the resolution of your cough by helping your body clear the mucus. Ways of doing this include increasing fluid intake, gargling with warm salt water and performing sinus rinses.

ENLARGED LYMPH NODES

Defined: These nodules of tissue are normally small (less than pea-sized), soft and movable, but may get larger and feel swollen or tender when the body is fighting an infection.

Why it seems scary: Lumps are sometimes a sign of something more serious—so it’s natural to feel panicky.

Dr. Hsiung breaks it down: Reactive and enlarged lymph nodes are a normal part of your body’s immune response; they should resolve with your illness but may linger for a week or two post-recovery, going down slowly.

Helpful tips: 

• If needed, an anti-inflammatory (such as ibuprofen) can be taken to help ease discomfort. 
• When lymph nodes are rapidly enlarging to more than 1 cm, or persisting for 3–4 weeks, you should connect with a physician for guidance or simply extra peace of mind.

How can 98point6 help?

Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or just have a worrisome question on your mind, our physicians are available on-demand 24/7. And unlike that seemingly simple online search, they can offer the full spectrum of primary care, including diagnosis and treatment, questions answered, labs ordered and prescriptions sent to your local pharmacy.

The post 98point6 physician Leslie Hsiung, MD shares the top things that scare patients—and why you shouldn’t get spooked appeared first on 98point6.