Do I still need a Pap test? It's a question we often hear from patients as their reproductive years come to a close. In most cases, the answer is yes, even after menopause.  Studies show that routine pap smears have dramatically reduced cervical cancer over the last 50 years. However, we've seen an increase in women who are overdue for cervical cancer screenings following the COVID-19 pandemic. It isn’t necessary to visit a gynecologist; primary care doctors can play a vital role in helping women get this, and other, potentially lifesaving screenings. However, there's some confusion about whether–and how often– women need screenings after 40. Here's a look at why Pap smears are important, why you should keep them on your wellness schedule, and how your primary care doctor can ... Continue Reading

As younger adults, when we think of a urinary tract infection, we might think of minor discomfort or having to go more frequently. But in older adults, UTIs can cause serious problems, including kidney failure. The medical community has also found a surprising link between UTIs and sudden memory loss in seniors. It’s something the primary care and geriatric care communities are taking very seriously. Urinary tract infections are one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions in older adults, so it’s essential to communicate with patients and caregivers to improve diagnosis and treatment. The good news is that confusion and memory loss related to a UTI don’t mean permanent dementia. Prompt attention can bring fast relief and improved quality of life. Why Do UTIs Affect The Brain In Older ... Continue Reading

If you’re over 50 and haven’t experienced shingles, consider yourself lucky. For many of our patients, it’s one of the most uncomfortable experiences they’ve encountered, with an unbearably itchy rash and potential lingering nerve pain. Aside from the pain, one of the reasons so many patients dread shingles is that it’s unpredictable and can interfere with your daily life in significant and disruptive ways. Fortunately, we now have a safe and effective vaccine to prevent shingles; however, many patients aren’t yet aware of its benefits. What Is Shingles? Shingles is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox (varicella) virus in your body. Many of us had chickenpox as kids before the development of varicella vaccines. However, you may not be aware that the virus remains ... Continue Reading

It’s summer in Virginia, so bring on the humidity–and the bugs. Mosquitoes are ubiquitous, and ticks seem to be more prevalent than usual. Poison ivy and its itchy siblings are everywhere, and sometimes, we start itching for no good reason. Bug bites and rashes come with the season and are sometimes the price we pay for having fun. However, there are steps we can take to prevent them. It’s also good to know what’s typical when it comes to the bumps and rashes of summer and when it’s a good idea to see a doctor. What Are The Most Common Summer Skin Issues? Despite our best efforts with insect repellent and citronella candles, it’s hard to get through the summer without a mosquito bite or two. They’re usually harmless but can become infected if scratched. We should also be aware of ... Continue Reading

When we think about gout, we might think about Henry VIII with his loaded table and lavish lifestyle. For centuries, gout was considered a status symbol since it meant you could afford rich foods. Today, gout is decidedly undesirable and unpleasant. While it’s true that gout is related to your diet, it’s also a form of arthritis. Let’s look at the symptoms and causes of gout and how we can prevent flare-ups. What Is Gout? Gout is a type of arthritis caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood. The buildup leads to the formation of sharp crystals in the joints, causing pain and inflammation. Your big toe is usually the canary in the coal mine, the most likely location for gout to start, but it can affect other joints, too. People get gout in their ankles, knees, elbows and wrists. We ... Continue Reading

In recent years, a growing patient empowerment movement has sparked growth in so-called DIY or Direct-To-Consumer (DTC) lab testing. In many states, patients can work directly with labs to test for illnesses and deficiencies and learn more about their overall health. Popular direct tests include thyroid function, blood sugar and hormone levels. But is direct testing a good idea? While it allows patients to do their research and manage their care, it can also leave them confused and misinformed. For patients who choose direct access testing, it's best to have ongoing support and communication with your doctor. What Is DTC Blood Testing? Under the traditional medical model, doctors work with patients to decide what tests and screens their patients need. However, thanks to a wealth of ... Continue Reading