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Primary Care vs. Urgent Care vs. The ER
When seeking medical care, there are several different provider types and options from which to choose. For example, you may have asked yourself a common question: Should I go to my primary care provider, urgent care or the emergency room? Sarah Herbert, APRN with Renown Medical Group – South Carson, provides guidelines to help you easily make this decision. When should you go to the Emergency Room (ER)? Making a visit to the ER should be reserved for severe symptoms and/or life-threatening conditions, including: Chest pain Severe shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Weakness or numbness on one side Slurred speech Fainting/loss of consciousness Continuous bleeding or major open wounds Severe allergic reactions Coughing or throwing up blood Drug or alcohol overdose Sharp pain in lower abdomen Severe dehydration and not responding to nausea medication (needing IV fluids) High fever that does not get better with medicine Serious burns Broken bones/dislocated joints Head trauma Find an Emergency Department Near You If you’re still unsure of where to go for appropriate medical care, it’s best to check with your primary care physician. And remember, for a life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately!
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Make Hydration a Priority for Your Health
As the temperatures skyrocket and we return to more outdoor activity, one thing is certain: you must hydrate to stay cool, healthy, and functional. But how much water do you need, and what are some easy ways to ensure you are getting enough? Aurosis Reddy, DO a family medicine provider with Renown Medical Group, shares what you need to know. How Much Water Is Enough? Experts agree that recommended daily water intake can vary depending on different factors such as your weight, metabolism, location, diet, physical activity, and health. As a rule of thumb, women should aim for a daily fluid intake of 91 ounces, and men should aim for 125 ounces. It is important to listen to your body and recognize when you might need to increase your water intake. For example, if you’re partaking in strenuous exercise, or spending time outside in the heat, you’ll want to give your body more water and electrolytes to function properly. How Can I Tell If I Am Dehydrated? Decreased coordination Fatigue Less urination Dizziness Dry, sticky lips and mouth Increased thirst Headache
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How to Navigate the Baby Formula Shortage
With the ongoing baby formula shortage in the United States, many parents are questioning how they can safely feed their babies and keep them healthy. Pediatrician Karen Wagner, APRN with Renown Medical Group answers some questions on what to do (and not to do) during this challenging time. What if I cannot find my baby’s formula in any stores or online retailers? If you run out of the formula you give your baby and are unable to find it through any trusted retailers, you should start by calling your baby’s pediatrician for recommendations on other safe feeding alternatives. Many pediatricians are advising that, as long as your baby has no special diet or medical needs, they can be switched to a different kind of FDA approved baby formula, if it’s purchased from a well-recognized distributor and not through an auction site or an individual you don’t know. It’s also important to make sure the formula is not expired, as it may no longer be safe or have the correct levels of nutrients. Can I make my own baby formula? Or can I dilute the formula I have? No, it is very dangerous to attempt making your own formula, as it can lead to infection and will not have the right amount of nutrients your baby needs to develop and grow. It’s also unsafe to dilute your formula supply, as doing so will cause a lack of nutrients which can lead to your baby having severe health issues down the road.