Gout is a complex form of arthritis. It typically causes sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The most common joint affected is the base of the big toe. Most patients will have episodic flares, with little or no symptoms between flares. There are ways…
Last week we talked about osteoporosis, including risk factors and complications. This week, I wanted to talk about things that you can do to try to prevent osteoporosis. We will also talk about ways that it can be treated, if it does develop, in order to decrease the risk of…
Osteoporosis is a medical condition in which the bones become brittle and fragile as a result of loss of tissue. This is typically a result of hormonal changes, or deficiency of calcium or vitamin D. The complications of osteoporosis, including hip fractures and spinal fractures, can cause significant disability. We’ll…
Last week, we talked about migraine headache symptoms and possible triggers. This week we’ll talk about how the diagnosis is made, and what treatment options are available. How does your doctor make the diagnosis of migraine? The first thing your doctor will do is get a good description of your…
A migraine is a specific type of headache that can cause severe, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head. Approximately 18 percent of women and 6 percent of men in the United States have migraine headaches. Migraine headaches can last anywhere from hours to days. The pain can…
Last week we talked about the different causes of food poisoning, and the symptoms they cause. This week I wanted to talk about how to keep yourself safe and prevent food poisoning. You have probably heard the basic rule which says to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. …
This is the time of year when we like to picnic and cook and eat outside. I thought we should talk about germs and illnesses that might come from food, especially if food is not cooked or stored correctly. There are many different germs that can contaminate foods. In fact,…
From last week’s Health Tip, you should all know how important it is to protect your skin from the sun. Unfortunately, there are times when we still might end up with a sunburn, despite our best efforts. It is important to know how to treat a sunburn correctly. Here are…
Protect Your Skin from the Summer Sun This is the time of year for outdoor activities. I know that I have really been looking forward to the warm summer sun throughout the long New England winter. Whether it’s a backyard cook out, or a day at the lake or beach,…
In the last few years, we have been learning more about certain carbohydrates that can cause gastrointestinal distress. There have now been reputable studies to show that about 75% of patients with irritable bowel syndrome get significant relief from their symptoms almost immediately after starting a low FODMAP diet. In…