Each year, March marks National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, shining a much needed spotlight on a disease that impacts 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women during their lifetime. Why is this month important? Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, but the good news is that it is highly preventable with regular screenings. When detected early, colorectal cancer is often treatable and sometimes even avoidable. Who should get screened? • Adults 45 and older, even if you have no symptoms. • Anyone with a family history of colorectal cancer. • People experiencing symptoms like persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss. What are your screening options? There are multiple ways to screen for colorectal cancer, including: • Colonoscopy (the gold standard for detection and prevention) • Stool-based tests (non-invasive options you can do at home) Prevention starts with […]
Thank you to Total Balance in Vinton for welcoming Family Physicians to speak about our Weight Loss Injections. We’re excited to support patients who are ready to begin this new journey. We find ourselves stepping into a brand new journey, one filled with hope, uncertainty, and excitement. As the seasons begin to shift, so does our path, and we are ready to embrace the opportunities ahead. There’s something refreshing about this month, a reminder that growth comes from movement, even when the destination isn’t fully clear. With each step, we are choosing courage over comfort, curiosity over fear, and trusting that this new chapter will unfold exactly as it’s meant to. Here’s to marching into March with an open heart and an eager spirit.
If you’ve been considering weight loss injections, now is the time to start. While the FDA is still determining final regulations, it could be months before any major decisions are made. Even then, legal challenges, like those currently affecting tirzepatide, will likely delay changes. Right now, compounded versions remain available, allowing patients to access effective treatment at a fraction of the cost of brandname options, which can be as high as $1,400 per month. However, if regulatory changes tighten restrictions, these more affordable options may become limited. By starting now, you give yourself the time to achieve your weight loss goals while these medications are still accessible. If you’ve ever thought about trying them, this is the window of opportunity to take action.
With the weather finally warming up, it’s the perfect time to focus on feeling our best, both inside and out. As we enjoy longer days and more sunshine, it’s a great opportunity to prioritize our health and well-being. That’s why I’m excited about an upcoming event where we’ll be diving into the benefits of weight loss injections. It’s not just about shedding pounds, it’s about improving overall health, boosting confidence, and feeling more energized. Learning more about these treatments can open the door to a healthier lifestyle, and I can’t wait to explore how they can help us all feel our best this season! Call Today to Reserve Your Seat! 319-365-7581 Event Details: Date: Thursday, February 27th Time: 6pm Location: Total Balance 217 W Fourth St, Vinton, IA
Protect Yourself from Extreme Cold! Dress for the Cold: The Power of Layering ✔ Base Layer (Moisture-wicking): Keeps sweat away from skin (avoid cotton!). ✔ Middle Layer (Insulation): Traps body heat (wool, fleece, or down). ✔ Outer Layer (Wind/Waterproof): Shields against cold wind and moisture. ✔ Accessories: Wear gloves, hats, scarves, and insulated boots to protect extremities. Cold Weather Dangers & What to Do: Hypothermia (Body temperature below 95°F) Symptoms: Shivering, confusion, slurred speech Weak pulse, slow breathing, loss of coordination What to Do: ✅ Move to a warm place, remove wet clothing ✅ Cover with blankets, warm beverages (no alcohol or caffeine) ✅ Seek medical attention immediately Frostbite (Frozen skin tissue – fingers, toes, nose, ears most affected) Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, or skin turning pale/grayish Hard, waxy skin or blisters What to Do: ✅ Move to a warm area, gently warm affected skin (no rubbing!) ✅ Avoid hot water or direct […]
Valentine’s Day is all about love and caring, making it the perfect time to prioritize heart health. While chocolates and romantic dinners are great, showing love also means taking care of yourself and your loved ones. A heart health check-up can help detect potential issues early, ensuring a strong and healthy heart for years to come. Regular screenings, a balanced diet, and an active lifestyle are key to preventing heart disease. This Valentine’s Day, celebrate by making heart health a priority because a healthy heart is the best gift you can give.
With heavy snow on the way, we want to remind our patients to stay safe! If you don’t have to go out, it’s best to stay indoors and keep warm. Roads and sidewalks may be icy, so if you must go outside, wear proper footwear with good traction and take slow, careful steps to avoid slips and falls. If you need to shovel, remember to take it easy, snow removal can be strenuous. Take frequent breaks, lift with your legs (not your back), and stay hydrated. If you have a heart condition or any health concerns, consider asking for help or taking it slow to avoid overexertion. Your health and safety are our priority! Stay warm, stay safe, and reach out if you need us.
Yesterday was World Cancer Day, we were deeply moved by a heartfelt compliment from a patient who shared their gratitude for the care and compassion they’ve received at our office. They spoke about how our doctors not only provide exceptional medical expertise but also take the time to listen, comfort, and support them through every step of their journey. Moments like these remind us why we do what we do. Our mission is not just to treat but to uplift, reassure, and stand by our patients in their most vulnerable moments. We are honored to be part of their fight and will continue to provide the highest level of care to every patient who walks through our doors. We thought we would share some information on Blood Clots, as this is what our patient is dealing with on top of fighting cancer. Blood Clots in the Legs and Lungs Blood clots can […]
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February is Heart Month, a perfect time to prioritize your heart health by knowing your key heart numbers~ blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI). These numbers provide critical insights into your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. High blood pressure or cholesterol can often go unnoticed without regular check-ups, making it essential to stay informed. By monitoring these numbers and making lifestyle changes as needed, you can take proactive steps to protect your heart and overall well-being. Stay heart-smart❤️ Know your numbers and take control of your health!
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This time of year, we’re seeing an increase in respiratory illnesses such as RSV, Mycoplasma pneumonia, and Flu A & B. These are viral infections that can last up to 2–3 weeks, and in some cases, such as walking pneumonia, a lingering cough may persist for months. Here are some general recommendations for managing symptoms at home: • Mucinex DM or similar over-the-counter medications can help loosen and thin mucus. • Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water. • Use a humidifier to ease congestion. • For cough relief, consider an appropriate cough medicine. • Tylenol or ibuprofen can help reduce fever, pain, and headaches. • Sinus rinses or nasal flushing can relieve sinus pressure and headaches. As always, please stay home if you’re feeling unwell, wash your hands frequently, and prioritize rest and hydration. If your symptoms worsen or persist, don’t hesitate to contact our office for further evaluation.
