Herpes zoster (shingles) results from reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, or chickenpox. We are unable to predict who will have an outbreak of shingles; however, it does tend to occur more often in individuals over 50 years of age. It is possible to have recurrences. Shingles is characterized by a very painful, blistering, rash affecting […]
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Category: Uncategorized
April 30, 2018
“It’s Nothing”
About ten years ago, I went in for a routine ultrasound of my abdomen after experiencing some pain and occasional issues with intermittent discomfort. I, of course, thought it would be something quite insignificant, but unfortunately, a pancreatic mass was noted and not much else. This led to a long course of medical diagnostics and […]
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January 25, 2018
Chest Pain
Chest pain is a commonly encountered complaint in the outpatient setting. Determining its cause is of utmost importance. While the majority of chest pain is caused by musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal etiologies, ruling out cardiac ischemia (poor blood flow to the heart) is of major concern. Other life threatening causes including but not limited to pulmonary […]
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January 9, 2018
Colon Cancer Screening
When I was in my OB/GYN rotation in med school, the senior resident received a phone call while we were in the OR doing a procedure. The senior resident handed me the phone. A third year medical student was the lowest man in training, so I assumed I was in deep trouble. I hesitated and […]
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Flu Season
It is October which means influenza season is fast approaching. In fact, we have already had confirmed cases of influenza amongst our patients. Flu is transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets that can travel up to 10 feet with coughing and sneezing; and less far with talking. Flu can also be contracted with hand contact of […]
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June 29, 2017
World Hepatitis Day
July 28 each year is designated “World Hepatitis Day”. The purpose of this to raise awareness and stimulate changes in behavior, both political and personal, to reduce the worldwide burden of viral hepatitis. Hepatitis refers to any inflammation in the liver. This inflammation can be caused by drugs, toxins (most typically alcohol) as well as […]
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June 13, 2017
Men’s Health Month
You may not realize it, but June is Men’s Health month. Take action to be healthy and safe, and encourage the men and boys in your life to make their health a priority. Here are some steps men can take each day to improve their health: Get Good Sleep. Adults need between 7-9 hours of […]
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June 1, 2017
“Everybody will die, but very few people want to be reminded of that fact.” Lemony Snicket, The Austere Academy
As the population ages and baby boomers begin their golden years, much more attention is being placed on death and dying. The later part of our lives has been given very little emphasis in the past. The goal is to improve the quality of living during this period and to ensure the dignity of death. […]
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April 25, 2017
“Hold my beer and watch this!”
This catch phrase usually precedes an act of poor judgment. April is Alcohol Awareness Month. Alcohol is the most commonly used addictive substance in the United States. One in twelve individuals or 17.6 million people suffers from alcohol abuse or dependence in the United States. Alcohol is responsible for contributing to 1/3 of homicides and […]
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March 6, 2017
It’s Allergy Time in Tennessee!
Unfortunately for us, Knoxville is consistently ranked as a hotbed for allergies. Most people know the symptoms well: sneezing like crazy, itchy skin, watery eyes, and drippy nose. As many as 40% of adults suffer from allergies. Your immune system has an important job to defend your body from invaders that cause harm; however, when […]
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