Primary Care

July 12, 2021

Is It Lyme Disease or Something Else?

Lyme disease affects an estimated 300,000 people in the United States each year. Despite its increasing prevalence, there are many lingering myths about this tick-borne illness. Also known as the “great imitator,” Lyme disease often affects more than one system in the body and can trigger a wide range of symptoms that may mimic other […]

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March 31, 2021

Spring Clean Your Life

“’Tis the gift to be simple, ’tis the gift to be free,’” proclaims the old Shaker hymn, “Simple Gifts.” And who wouldn’t like a little more simplicity? You can have it now by clearing out things that complicate your life. Start with these: Tune Out Media saturates our lives and can over-stimulate or even depress […]

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March 26, 2021

6 Healthy Habits for Spring

If you’re feeling more energetic, happier and a little distracted these days, you’ve probably got spring fever. Romantics may be disappointed to find out that this pulse-quickening condition seems to be less about love and more about biology. Here’s why: Increased daylight tells our bodies to produce less melatonin (a hormone that makes us sleepy). […]

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March 12, 2021

Do I Need This Tool to Track My Asthma?

Asthma is a lung condition that can cause inflammation in your airways, making it difficult to breathe. If you’re having trouble getting — and keeping — your asthma under control, your doctor may recommend measuring your peak flow to help you better manage your condition. What Is a Peak Flow Measurement? “Peak flow is basically […]

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February 17, 2021

Dangerous Flu Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Most cases of the flu are a nuisance — you’ll be on your back for a few days or weeks, and then you can return to your normal routine. But certain flu symptoms, like sudden dizziness, may signal a more serious medical problem, like sepsis or pneumonia. Make sure you know how to differentiate normal […]

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January 22, 2021

What You Need to Know about Your Family Health History

Think back to the countless times when you’ve sat in a doctor’s waiting room, filling out a family health history questionnaire before an appointment. Many times, this is done in a rush with little thought to the importance or accuracy of the knowledge we have. Do we really have the answer to every question about […]

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January 14, 2021

How to Avoid the Highly Contagious Stomach Flu

It’s important to note that stomach flu, which seemingly spreads like wildfire, has nothing to do with the flu — the respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Kids or adults with stomach flu most likely have gastroenteritis, or inflammation of the lining of the intestine. It can be caused by a variety of microscopic bugs, […]

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January 6, 2021

Should I Call in Sick Today?

Do you have symptoms of a cold or the flu? Wondering if it’s okay to go to work? It’s important to understand some key facts about each illness to take care of yourself and to help prevent your co-workers from coming down with your bug. Here’s how. When Should I Stay Home? The U.S. Centers […]

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December 29, 2020

Advanced Providers are Crucial Team Members at Mission Hospital McDowell

By Carol Wolfenbarger, MSN, RN, FACHE The accomplished and committed professionals who form our care team here at Mission Hospital McDowell (MHM) include a diverse array of caregivers, from nurses and physicians to pharmacists and social workers. Each member of the care team provides a specific type and scope of care, and all are essential. […]

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September 8, 2020

Primary Care in the Time of COVID-19: Here’s How We’re Keeping You Safe

By Cherry Odom, BSN, RN-BC Who would have thought that a trip to the doctor’s office would require safety precautions? Mission Health primary care providers across western North Carolina now offer several options to meet your healthcare needs and support your safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. See You on the Computer Virtual, or telehealth, visits […]

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