Allergy Testing- Why And When Should You Go For It?

Allergy is a condition in which the immune system of a human body reacts abnormally to a foreign substance. Some people may experience an allergic reaction, while others may not even experience it.

Many people are allergic to mold, dust, pollen, etc. While still others have an allergy to latex or bee stings. Some even have an allergy to soy, milk, or peanuts. Healthcare providers can perform allergy tests to identify whether you are suffering from an allergy, such as allergy skin testing, blood tests, food challenges, medication (drug) challenges, spirometry (lung function tests), aspirin desensitization, patch testing, and other procedures. If the results of these tests are positive, it means you have an allergic reaction.

Why does a doctor advise you to get an allergy test?

Your healthcare provider may recommend allergy testing if you show any signs of allergy. Doctors often perform allergy tests on those who are suffering from asthma symptoms. These tests can identify allergy triggers responsible for worsening the condition and leading to asthma attacks.

In case you’ve had a severe allergic attack, for example- Anaphylaxis. This is a serious and life-threatening problem that can lead to symptoms such as hives or swelling, breathing difficulty, reduced blood pressure, etc. these symptoms can lead to anaphylactic shock. So, a physician may recommend you various allergy tests immediately.

When to go for allergy tests?

When you experience any of the following symptoms, you may suffer from an allergic reaction, including;

  • Itchy, watery eyes.
  • Itchy nose.
  • Runny nose.
  • Sneezing.
  • Rashes.
  • Stomach cramps.
  • Vomiting.
  • Hives (rashes with red patches).

So, consult with your physician immediately once you find any of the above symptoms!

Some specific types of allergic conditions are also described here:

You are more likely to develop allergic rhinitis if you are allergic to allergens- usually present in the air (for example- dust, pollen, or pet dander). This condition is often known as hay fever. It usually leads to the following signs-

  • Itchy and watery eyes.
  • Sneezing.
  • Nasal congestion or runny nose.
  • Headaches.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Wheezing or chronic cough.
  • Sore throat.

If you are suffering from a food allergy, you can experience the symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain within 1/2 to 2 hours of consuming that food. People with this type of allergy can develop the following signs:

Gastrointestinal symptoms- Abdominal pain, cramps, nausea and vomiting, and diarrhea.

Respiratory symptoms- Coughing, tightness in the chest, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Cardiovascular symptoms- Weak pulse, pale skin, fatigue, lightheadedness, and dizziness.

Skin symptoms- Swelling on the face or lips, hives, itching, etc.

You may develop signs of contact dermatitis if you are allergic to latex or fragrances. These signs will negatively affect your skin. You may experience-

  • Burning sensation on the skin.
  • Swelling.
  • Hives.
  • Skin rash.
  • Itchy skin.

What are these allergy tests meant for?

They are performed to check the body’s response to allergens. If a person suffers from an allergy, his immune system will overreact. It produces proteins (Immunoglobulin E, IgE) responsible for triggering the release of chemicals that lead to an allergic reaction.

How can you prepare yourself for these tests?

An allergy specialist may ask you to stop taking allergy medications at least seven days before you go for a test. This is because these medicines can prevent your immune system from responding to allergens and thus affect the results of tests. However, you may be recommended to continue taking medications for asthma (depending on your health condition).

What if the test results show you have an allergy?

If your allergy tests are positive and you discover an allergy, the time has come to get the treatment. If you are allergic to any food item, you must avoid it! But if you have other types of allergy, your doctor may prescribe medications accordingly. Depending on the condition, some patients may need allergy shots as well.

It’s best to get the necessary treatment on time. Because if you don’t, you may end up experiencing more serious conditions later. But to get the treatment, you must ensure you have an allergy! And this can be diagnosed through allergy tests.

At L.I. Medical Group, our specialists perform allergy testing for various types of allergies, including seasonal, chemical, food, skin, environmental, medication, pet, and animal allergies. If you wish to consult an allergist or have allergy tests performed, schedule your appointment today!

When Should You See A Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a medical practitioner who focuses on the gastrointestinal tract and other digestive organs (stomach, esophagus, and intestines). In addition to the gastrointestinal tract, they focus on the biliary system, which consists of the liver, bile duct, gallbladder, and pancreas.

Those who are afflicted with gastrointestinal issues and are located anywhere in the state of New York should not delay in seeking the care of a gastroenterologist. You can consult Dr. Ronald Fagan, one of the leading gastroenterologists, internists, and primary care doctors in NY.

The initial step in your medical care will be a physical examination by the doctor. You may be advised to undergo additional testing, such as a blood test, endoscopy, colonoscopy, or other treatment, depending on the severity of your symptoms. All of these treatments are offered at an advanced clinical facility known as L. I. Medical Group, situated in Farmingdale, New York.

Dr. Ronald Fagan and his staff are experts in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of medical conditions related to the gastrointestinal system, such as;

  • Frequent heartburn.
  • Abnormal bowel movements.
  • Hemorrhoids.
  • Fissures.
  • Irritable bowel syndrome.
  • Colorectal cancer.

Now, you might be wondering when you should see a gastroenterologist!

Are there any signs that can provide a hint that it could be the time to schedule your appointment with a gastroenterologist?

Yes! Continue reading this blog to learn about everything!

Common signs that show you should see a gastroenterologist-

Abnormal bowel movements-

If you notice any change in the regularity of bowel movements, it might be an indication to make a trip to a gastroenterologist. Common abnormal bowel movement conditions include constipation, diarrhea, excessive gas, pale-colored stool, etc.

Rectal bleeding-

Blood in your stool is a serious sign of something wrong with your digestive tract. An anal fissure, a small cut or tear in the tissue that lines your anus, might cause rectal bleeding. In addition, bloody stools may result from hemorrhoids or other serious life-threatening conditions such as cancer.

Frequent heartburn

People often ignore heartburn. But it is advisable to see a doctor if you suffer from painful and frequent heartburn. It could indicate that you may have digestive issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other conditions. A timely diagnosis of this condition can help you get the required treatment and prevent you from experiencing any serious conditions later.

Abdominal pain & bloating

It’s common to experience these signs once in a while. But if you are suffering from prolonged or persistent abdominal pain/bloating, the time has come to see a gastroenterologist. These symptoms usually emerge after every meal and are accompanied by other signs such as painful bowel movements, nausea, or vomiting.

Peptic ulcers 

It’s a condition that is usually characterized by a burning sensation in the stomach. A person may feel pain in his stomach. Mainly, this condition is caused by bacterial infection, long-term usage of NSAIDs, etc.

Jaundice 

In this condition, the skin and whites of an affected person’s eyes become yellow. This occurs due to the excessive production of bilirubin in the blood. Mostly, it is caused by blood or liver issues. For example- hemolytic anemia, liver damage, gallstones, etc., can cause jaundice.

Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)-

It’s a condition that forces an affected person to take more time and effort to pass down the consumed food or liquid from his mouth to the stomach. This can even lead to chest pain. This condition mostly results from acid reflux, neurological disorders, or even cancers.

Unexplained weight loss-

Experiencing an unexpected drop in your body weight from the last few weeks or months can indicate you might be suffering from any underlying condition. It could be ulcerative colitis, peptic ulcer, cirrhosis, pancreatitis, etc.

In case you experience the above-described signs, visit a gastroenterologist. Get the necessary treatment on time before the condition becomes worse.

At L.I. Medical group, you can meet Dr. Ronald Fagan, a well-reputed Gastroenterologist providing exceptional treatment to patients across NY for many years. In addition, Dr. Ronald Fagan and his team are committed to diagnosing, treating, and preventing hematological diseases, ear infections, urinary tract infections, sinus problems, arterial Doppler, and performing annual physicals, carotid Doppler, Holter monitor, and more tests. To know more about his services, you can reach out to us today!

Dr. Ronald Fagan, an esteemed gastroenterologist practices at the L.I. Medical Group, who has provided outstanding care to patients throughout New York for many years. Dr. Ronald Fagan and his team are dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and preventing hematological diseases, ear infections, urinary tract infections, and sinus problems, as well as performing advanced tests such as arterial Doppler, annual physicals, carotid Doppler, Holter monitor, and other procedures.

If you’d like to learn more about our services or schedule a consultation with a gastroenterologist, please call us at +1 516-752-7000.

Learn Exactly How To Improve Stroke Prevention

Stroke Prevention | LI Medical Group

A stroke is a potentially fatal medical condition that occurs when the blood flow to the brain is cut off due to a variety of causes. It’s an emergency that necessitates immediate medical attention. The sooner a person receives care, the less damage he may sustain. As a result, it is best to take some precautionary measures to avoid a stroke.

If you have already had a stroke, you can make an appointment with L.I. Medical Care’s highly skilled and experienced team of experts. Get several vital tests, such as carotid doppler tests, done regularly by our experts for stroke prevention! Our specialists can give you the necessary treatment based on the findings of the test!

Here are five ways that can help reduce the chances of getting a stroke.

Diet

An unhealthy diet can lead to various health problems. It can even increase your chances of stroke by increasing your cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Consuming a low-fat and high-fiber diet, including plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, may help people reduce the risk of strokes.

It is essential to consume a well-balanced diet. Instead of consuming too much of any single food, you can include a variety of foods in your daily diet plan. Most importantly, avoid eating foods that are high in sodium. Also, you should limit the amount of salt in your diet.

Exercise

Consuming a healthy diet along with regular exercise can help maintain a healthy body weight. In addition, regular exercise can help manage your cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Usually, it is best to do moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as cycling, brisk walking, etc., for at least 150 minutes a week.

If you are recovering from a stroke, you should discuss exercise plans with your healthcare provider. Depending on your condition, your doctor might ask you to skip exercising for a few weeks after a stroke.

Quit smoking and cut down on alcohol

Excess smoking and drinking can increase your risk of having a stroke. This is because both these lifestyle habits can narrow your arteries and increase the chances of blood clotting.

Quitting smoking and limiting the consumption of alcohol may not only help reduce the risk of stroke but also improve your general health. Avoiding these two habits can also reduce the risk of developing severe life-threatening conditions such as lung cancer or heart disease.

Manage your medical conditions

Consult with your healthcare provider about a few steps you can take to reduce the chances of getting at risk for stroke. For example- if you have any health condition that can increase your risk for strokes, such as heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes, you can manage these conditions by getting the right treatment and following healthy lifestyle habits.

Getting some tests done regularly

Strokes may occur at any time without giving you a warning. Some people are unaware that they have symptoms that can lead to stroke. If you or your loved one has had a history of stroke, it is best to get a carotid doppler test done by specialists. This is a proven testing method for stroke prevention.

It’s a test that uses sound waves to examine the blood flow through your carotid arteries. If the result shows a blocked or narrowed carotid artery, the patient is at an increased risk of getting a stroke.

Those who are diagnosed with the following conditions can get a carotid doppler scan through L.I. Medical Group, one of the best centers for this test.

  • High cholesterol levels
  • High blood pressure
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Diabetes
  • Family history of stroke or cardiovascular diseases

Also, if your healthcare provider detects an anomaly in your carotid artery during the physical examination, he can recommend you go for this test. Based on the results of this test, your doctor can provide you with the necessary treatment.

What Should You Learn About Colonoscopy Before A Doctor?

Colonoscopy |LI Medical Group

A colonoscopy is a specialized test performed by a medical practitioner to identify the changes like swollen or irritated tissues, polyps, or cancer in the colon and rectum. During this examination, a long and flexible tube often referred to as a colonoscope, is inserted into a patient’s rectum.

A colonoscope has a tiny video camera at its tip that helps a doctor get an inside view of the colon. During this test, a doctor can even remove the polyps or other types of abnormal tissue (if necessary). In addition, a specialist or doctor can take samples of abnormal tissues for further investigation.

Are you also planning to undergo this test? If so, you can schedule your appointment with a colonoscopy specialist at L.I. Medical Group now! Get accurate test results and expect the best medical care from our experts.

Why is a colonoscopy done?

Usually, a doctor can recommend a colonoscopy to:

Investigate signs and symptoms of intestinal problems-

This test can help your healthcare provider know about the causes of your symptoms, such as chronic diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or other intestinal problems.

Screen for colon cancer-

If you’re 45 or more years old and at risk of colon cancer, your doctor might suggest you go for this test. It is best to get this test at least once after 10 years.

Look for more polyps-

If you have had polyps in the past, your doctor may recommend this test to look for additional polyps. In case he observes any polyp, he will remove it. The polyp removal procedure is performed to reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.

Offer treatment for any issue-

Sometimes, this exam may be done for treatment purposes. For example- a doctor can perform a colonoscopy to place a stent or remove any tissue or object present in your colon.

Signs that show you need a colonoscopy test

If you experience any of the following symptoms for a long time, your doctor might recommend you go for a colonoscopy.

  • Persistent abdominal pain
  • Visible bloating
  • Issues with bowel movement. For example- constipation or diarrhea, etc
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Feeling like your bowel isn’t emptying completely
  • Stomach cramps
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Change in bowel habits
  • Anemia

These are some of the signs of abnormal functioning of the large intestine. Therefore, it is advisable to watch out for these symptoms. If you experience any of the above-listed signs and discomforts for more than 10 days, look no further and get the colonoscopy test done by specialists at a well-renowned medical care center.

Results of colonoscopy test

Your healthcare provider will review the results of the colonoscopy test.
In case the result is Negative, there is no need to worry! This test is considered negative only when a doctor doesn’t observe any abnormalities in your colon. But he may recommend you to have another colonoscopy test within 1-7 or 10 years, depending on your risk for developing any colon issues.

And if the result is Positive, you have polyps or abnormal tissues in your colon.

Most polyps aren’t cancerous. However, some can become cancerous. Your doctor will remove the polyps or abnormal tissues from your colon and send them to a laboratory for further analysis. The laboratory analysis results can help doctors determine whether the polyps are cancerous, precancerous, or non-cancerous.

Your doctor will advise you to go for another colonoscopy sooner in case you have the following:

  • More than two polyps in your colon.
  • A large-sized (1 cm or larger) polyp.
  • Residual stool in the colon, due to which your doctor becomes unable to get a clear view of your colon.
  • Polyps with specific cell characteristics, similar to cancer.
  • Cancerous polyps.

What Is The Significance Of Stress Tests?

Stress tests are usually performed to determine how well your heart can handle physical activity. This is because when you exercise, your pumping organ pumps blood harder and faster. And when your heart is working hard, some heart conditions are easier to find out.

During a stress test, you will be asked to exercise on a treadmill or stationary bicycle. In case you are unfit and unable to exercise, you will be given medicine to make your heart beat faster and harder. This test is often known as an exercise stress test, treadmill test, nuclear stress test, or stress echocardiogram test.

When you have difficulty completing this test in a given period, there may be reduced blood flow to your heart. Chances are you might be suffering from any serious heart condition!

If you wish to have a stress test performed by a specialist, you can schedule your appointment with Dr. Fagan, one of the best stress test specialists in NY. So, contact us at L.I. Medical Group and get the vital stress testing and the best medical assistance you deserve

Reasons- why are you advised to go for a stress test?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test for the following reasons-

To diagnose coronary artery disease-

The coronary arteries are responsible for supplying blood, oxygen, and nutrients to your heart. When these arteries become damaged, a person can get coronary artery disease. This heart condition mainly occurs due to a buildup of plaque or cholesterol deposits.

To diagnose irregular heartbeat-

Heart rhythm problems (heart arrhythmias) occur when the electrical signals that coordinate your heartbeat fail to work correctly. They can cause your heart to beat either too fast or too slow. As a result, you will have irregular heartbeats.

To manage the treatment-

If you have a heart condition, the stress test results can help your health care provider determine if your current treatment is working fine or not. Then, if he feels the need to change the medicines, he can do it accordingly.

To check heart condition before surgery-

If you are planning to undergo any heart surgery, your doctor may use a stress test to determine whether it is safe to go for the surgery or not!

If the results of this test don’t provide enough information, your doctor may ask you to go for a stress test with imaging, such as a nuclear stress test or an echocardiogram.

How can an exercise stress test be performed?

You might be asked to stroll on a treadmill. As the test continues, the speed of the treadmill will be increased. If you experience any chest pains, weakness, fatigue, or other difficulties, this test might be stopped.

Once your health care provider is satisfied with your test results, you’ll be asked to stop exercising.

Annual physicals are a key to better health. You might be due for certain vaccinations, such as a tetanus booster shot, shingles vaccine, or an annual flu shot. So, maybe, it’s time for your next blood sugar or lipid profile test. Regular checkups can keep you updated about your vaccinations or health tests.

When can a doctor recommend a stress test?

If you show the following signs and symptoms of limited blood flow to your heart, your doctor may recommend this test.

  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Shortness of breath
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Feel like a fluttering in your chest

You may also need this test if you:

  • Want to start any exercise program
  • Had heart surgery in past
  • Treated for any heart condition
  • Had a heart attack recently
  • At the risk of developing heart disease due to other health conditions, i.e., diabetes
  • Have a family history of heart disease

The results of a stress test can help a physician to understand the status of your heart health.

If you have any of the above-listed symptoms or reasons, you can consult our specialists and get the stress tests done at the best facility. And accordingly, you will get the best treatment to remain fit and healthy!

Top 3 Reasons Why Annual Physical Exam Is Important for A Person.

Annual Physical Exam | LI Medical Group

It’s great if you are healthy and have never been diagnosed with serious health conditions. But still, you need to spare some time from your busy schedule for a regular health check-up with your healthcare provider. Just like children, adults of all age groups (especially those 50 years old or older) can benefit from visiting their health practitioners to have annual examinations.

If you or your loved one need a health check-up in Farmingdale or Hicksville, NY, schedule your appointment with Dr. Ronald Fagan at L.I. Medical Group, a well-renowned annual physical exam specialist.

Are you confused about whether you should go for physical exams or not? If so, here are three reasons that favor your decision to book your next annual preventive check-up today!

Help establish your health baseline.

Having annual physicals can give you insight into your current health. In addition, your health care provider can know about the potential risk factors for any disease you might be dealing with.

Have you heard about silent killers earlier? Well, they are diseases that have no symptoms at the initial stages but can become life-threatening conditions with time. For example, an annual checkup can discover the chances of developing health conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or blood pressure that can be fatal.

Starting with your first annual checkup and continuing every year, your physical examinations can help establish a personal “health baseline.” Then, your doctor can easily predict unhealthy trends on time and provide the necessary treatment. So, you can save yourself from developing any severe risk factors for a chronic illness.

Stay updated with important preventive screenings.

“An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.” You might have heard this old saying before as well. So, when it comes to preserving your long-term health, it is always better to take precautions and follow some preventive measures.

Annual physicals are a key to better health. You might be due for certain vaccinations, such as a tetanus booster shot, shingles vaccine, or an annual flu shot. So, maybe, it’s time for your next blood sugar or lipid profile test. Regular checkups can keep you updated about your vaccinations or health tests.

If you are a woman, you can go for routine preventive screenings such as Pap smear, HPV tests, breast cancer screenings, etc. On the other hand, men can go for colon or prostate cancer screenings. Generally, your healthcare provider can recommend what tests or screenings you need to undergo, depending on your health.

Learn about your chronic disease risk on time

Nowadays, many people are suffering from multiple chronic diseases. The statistics for chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, kidney, and lung disease are troubling us. These conditions are the leading causes of death and disability among people.

Having an annual physical exam can allow your healthcare provider to-

  • Review your current risk factors for any serious health problem
  • Assess any change in your health that occurs since your previous exam
  • Identify your lifestyle choices that are contributing to your disease risks
  • Discuss effective strategies to manage the risk of any serious health problem

So, when it comes to minimizing the risk of developing a preventable chronic illness, annual physicals can prove a beneficial preemptive tool you can have.

Book your appointment for the annual exam now!

After reading about the perks of routine annual physical check-ups, you might also want to go for it. If so, you can contact us at L.I. Medical Group and schedule your annual physical exams with one of the best doctors in NY. Improve your overall health and stay protected!

What You Need To Know About The COVID-19 Booster Shots

COVID-19 Booster Shots | LI Medical Group

Since the Wall Street Journal reported a recent update by the US health regulation about a possible recommendation for a Covid-19 booster shot, confusion has reigned. According to the report, this booster shot will be administered at least 6 months after the previous dose for the 18 years and older vaccinated people.

With the Covid cases continuing to spike after the identification of a delta variant, experts are probing the benefits of Covid-19 vaccines and booster shots, especially for people who are immunocompromised.

Are immunocompromised individuals at higher risk?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently developing a plan for the Covid-19 vaccine boosters. This plan will reportedly clarify when and which vaccinated individuals should receive booster shots. This news is targeted at people with suppressed immune systems. As many people are eligible for a vaccine, but it may not provide rigorous protection if their immune system is already compromised due to a previous Covid infection.

Research indicates that many immunocompromised patients, such as organ transplant recipients and those on immune-suppressing medications, have reported a weak response to the initial dose of the vaccine. Therefore, due to a weakened immune system, these patients are unfortunately at a higher risk of serious illness from a number of infectious diseases.

Primary care physicians at MKR medical PC have also seen cases with people who have a weak immune system, struggle even after getting vaccinated. A general opinion of all doctors today is that immunocompromised patients are far more likely to contract a “breakthrough infection” than people with normal immunity. A recent US study also backs up this claim with a staggering 40% to 44% of hospitalized cases reported of solely immunocompromised people. Therefore, all physicians today recommend that if you or someone in your family is on the medications which are on the CDC list, consider yourself unvaccinated and go for a third booster shot.

How will a booster shot benefit?

An extra covid-19 vaccine will mobilize more antibodies against the virus, aiding in a revived and stronger level of protection. Although current evidence supporting an additional dose isn’t definitive, researchers are optimistic about the approach. The booster shot, especially for the immunocompromised individuals, can pose as a renewed chance at life, giving their body a literal boost to fight the virus more aggressively. So, consult your team of doctors if you are on a transplant list or undergoing blood cancer treatment, and get the booster shot at the earliest.

MKR Medical PC and our team of internal medicine specialists are here to provide you and your loved ones with the best health care services. So, schedule your appointment for a comprehensive health check-up and clarify your concerns with our primary care physicians.

Top 4 Tips To Protect Yourself From Flu During Winter

Protect Yourself From Flu During Winter | LI Medical Group

During the colder periods of the year, the susceptibility to flu and colds only increases. Unlike the common cold, the flu is usually not a simple infection; for many, it comes with more severe symptoms that range from high fevers, headaches, and sore throats. The elderly and children are very vulnerable to the flu, and sometimes the flu can be life-threatening to their bodies. It is crucial that you are aware of the signs of the flu so that the moment you think you might be coming down with one, you can work to treat yourself. At Long Island Medical Group, we believe it is essential for our patients to be educated on the symptoms of the flu, and it is why we have provided information on preventive steps you can take to help not get the flu in the first place.

What You Can Do To Avoid The Flu

  • Get A Flu Shot: Flu shots are one of the most effective ways of protecting yourself from the virus. Patients should be aware that the flu shot takes about two weeks from the time you get the shot for it to work, so it is why we advise you get your flu shot as soon as possible.
  • Wash Your Hands: Every day, your hands come into contact with communal surfaces like doorknobs, keyboards, or the pole on the subway if you’re taking public transit. It is why it is imperative that as soon as you can to wash your hands, and keep hand sanitizer on yourself to help eliminate the chance of getting the flu.
  • Keep Your Distance From Anyone Coughing & Sneezing: Avoidance is the best way not to catch a virus. If you believe that someone in your proximity is sick and they are showing visible symptoms like coughing or sneezing, try to keep a safe distance from them to avoid catching the flu.
  • Get Enough Sleep: Getting enough sleep is vital, especially during flu season. It allows your body to recharge, and fight off any infections and keeps you healthy. When you maintain your overall general health, it is an excellent way to combat the flu virus.

Even with a healthy lifestyle, sometimes getting the flu is unavoidable. It is why if you’re experiencing any flu symptoms and require treatment for it, we advise that you schedule an appointment with the premier primary care physician in Long Island, NY, Dr. Ronald Fagan. Call us today at (516)752-7000.

Spotting & Treating Cold Symptoms

It is that time of the year when the cold and the flu spread widely among people. Even with a healthy lifestyle, the common cold is one of those unavoidable illnesses that we all are prone to getting. The good thing about colds is that they can be caught early and that there is an endless amount of over the counter medications and home remedies available to help combat it. One of the best ways to get through a cold is to identify it early on. At Long Island Medical Group, we have taken the time to identify the symptoms and what you can do to combat the cold. Although we strongly advise if any symptoms last for longer than ten days that you seek the attention of a medical professional.

What Are The Signs To Look For When You Have A Cold?

The symptoms of the common cold can look a lot like the symptoms of the flu. However, there are some slight differences to tell the difference between the two ailments. Here are the signs to watch for if you believe you have a cold:

  • Itchy throat
  • Body aches
  • Headache
  • Mucus
  • Cough

Most colds take about ten days to leave your system. However, if you’re still experiencing any of the listed above systems plus a fever for more than ten days, even after treatment with an over the counter medication, you should make an appointment to see a trusted primary care doctor in Long Island at Long Island Medical Group. We advise that some of the best ways to avoid the cold try to limit your contact with people who are visibly ill. Try to keep your distance if you see anyone sneezing or coughing near you. If at home, your family members have a cold, make sure that they are covering their mouths when they are coughing and disposing of their tissues.

Treating Your Cold Symptoms

The good thing about a common cold is that they can be easily treated. Most colds do not require the need for antibiotics and can be managed with over the counter medicines and home remedies. If you’ve recently come down with a cold, here is a list of ways to help relieve some of the symptoms.

  • Drinking lots of fluids
  • Using a humidifier
  • Taking over the counter medication
  • Lots of rest

If you’re suffering from a cold and are finding that none of the above suggestions are helping to alleviate your symptoms, then come to Long Island Medical Group. We offer you comprehensive information to help you and your family get through a cold. Please make an appointment with the leading primary care doctor in Long Island, NY, with Dr. Ronald Fagan, and call us at (516) 752-7000 for an appointment.

An Active Lifestyle Is Important To Your Health!

When it comes to your overall health, there are many steps you can take to make sure that you are taking care of your body. Eating healthy and exercise are significant steps in making sure that your body is receiving the proper nutrition and building the strength of your immune system against viruses and other illnesses. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, it is recommended for most adults to be getting at least 30 minutes of exercise 5 to 7 days a week. The majority of adults only need about a half-hour of physical activity to maintain their weight and stay healthy.

At Long Island Medical Group, we firmly believe in helping our patients by giving them tips to help maintain a healthy lifestyle. Which is why we have provided some exercises you can do to help you get active.

Easy 30 Minutes Exercises

The best thing about exercise is that you can choose to do it; however, you see it fits best into your schedule. Whether it’s doing it one 30 minute set or wanting to break it up in intervals of 10-15 minutes, quick workouts spread out through the course of the day. You’ll notice that working out is a great way to increase your stamina, lose weight, and increase your flexibility. Here are some workouts that you can try out at home:

  • Yoga
  • Running
  • Jogging
  • Climbing Steps
  • Yoga
  • Weights, Sit-Ups
  • Combination of a cardio workout like yoga, and weight lifting

The best thing about the types of exercises that are listed above is that they can be done anywhere. Whether it’s at the gym or home, it is easy to get in your 30 minutes of exercise. Another essential factor to keep in mind with working out is not to overexert yourself. Unless you’re an athlete or training for some more extensive activity like a marathon, there is no need to work out for longer than 30 minutes at a time.

Physical activity should be an enjoyable experience and something that is done for the maintenance of your body and overall health. One of the leading reasons many people stop working out is because they attempt to do too much too soon.