by Family Physicians
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by Family Physicians
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Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate later in life, leading to shingles.
Shingles often begins with burning, tingling, or itching on one side of the body, followed by a rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters. The rash typically appears in a band-like pattern along a nerve pathway. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, and sensitivity to light.
Who is at Risk?
Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk for shingles, but it is more common in:
• Adults 50 years and older
• Individuals with weakened immune systems (due to conditions like cancer, HIV, or certain medications)
• People under high stress or with a history of chronic illnesses
The Shingles Vaccine
The Shingrix vaccine is the best way to protect against shingles and its complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)—a long-lasting nerve pain that can occur even after the rash heals.
The CDC recommends Shingrix for:
• Adults 50 and older, even if they’ve had shingles before
• Adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems
• Those who previously received the older Zostavax vaccine (which is no longer available in the U.S.)
Shingrix is given in two doses, spaced 2 to 6 months apart, and has been shown to be over 90% effective at preventing shingles.
Why Get Vaccinated?
Shingles can be extremely painful and may lead to long-term nerve damage. Getting vaccinated significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles and its complications, keeping you healthy and protected.
If you have questions or want to schedule your Shingrix vaccine, contact our office today!
With freezing temperatures moving into our area, we want to remind our patients to take extra precautions to stay safe and healthy during this cold snap. Frostbite & Cold Exposure • Limit time outdoors when temperatures drop below freezing. • Dress in layers and cover exposed skin, especially hands, feet, ears, and your face. • Watch for signs of frostbite such as numbness, tingling, pale or hard skin, and seek medical care if symptoms occur. • Avoid tight footwear or gloves that may reduce circulation. Prevent Slips & Falls • Use caution on icy sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. • Wear shoes with good traction and take slow, careful steps. • Keep walkways clear of ice and snow when possible. Stay Warm & Safe Indoors • Keep your home adequately heated. • Use space heaters safely, keep them away from flammable items and never leave them unattended. • Check on elderly family […]
As snow and ice move in, we want to remind everyone to slow down, watch for slick spots, and take extra care when walking, driving, or shoveling. A fall on icy ground can happen in seconds, so sturdy shoes, small steps, and a little patience go a long way. Winter storms are also a good reminder of how important it is to take care of your overall health. Feeling stronger, lighter, and more confident in your body can make everyday moments, like navigating snowy sidewalks, feel a little easier. If improving your health is one of your goals this season, our weight loss injections may be a supportive option. We’re here to help you safely take steps toward feeling your best, inside and out. Stay warm, stay safe ❄️
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Today we honor Dr. King’s legacy by continuing our commitment to caring for others through compassion, equality, and health for every patient we serve.
Weight loss injections have become a powerful tool for patients who have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. These medications work with your body to help control appetite, reduce cravings, and promote steady, sustainable weight loss. To help you decide if this option is right for you, we are offering a free two-week sample of Wegovy. This gives you the opportunity to experience how your body responds without pressure, commitment, or guesswork. For many of our patients, those first two weeks provide clarity, confidence, and real momentum. But we also know that medication works best when paired with proper nutritional support. That’s why we proudly offer supplements specifically designed to complement GLP-1 therapy, all of which have become incredibly popular with our patients: Fuel – An optimal meal replacement designed for GLP-1 users. Fuel helps you meet your protein and nutrient needs even when appetite is reduced, supporting energy, […]
