Category: Eat This Not That

The Importance of Sharing Information with Your Doctor

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Hi, It’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, Dr. BCW. Today I want to discuss the importance of sharing information with your doctor for the best health outcome. Effective communication between patients and healthcare providers is crucial for receiving optimal care. During doctor visits, you must openly share your concerns, family history, medication details, and the status of your health issues.

Unfortunately, barriers, such as fear, mistrust, and lack of knowledge, can hinder some patients from sharing. So let us explore the significance of sharing critical information with your doctor and provide tips for better communication. I did a related article on this with Eat This, Not That a while back. You can find that article here (https://www.eatthis.com/news-things-you-should-never-hide-from-your-doctor/). But this topic was so important I thought I should do a blog on it as well.

Sharing Your Concerns:

One of the primary challenges patients face is hesitating to share their concerns. Fear of being judged, feeling that their complaints will be trivialized, or worrying about wasting the doctor’s time can prevent patients from fully expressing their health issues. It is crucial to remember that every concern matters, and no question is too small. Doctors are there to support and guide you on your health journey, so it’s important to voice your worries.

Family History:

Sharing your family history with your doctor is vital. Many diseases and conditions have genetic links. Understanding your family’s medical background helps healthcare providers order appropriate screenings, monitor risks, and develop a comprehensive health plan.

Conditions such as heart disease, high cholesterol, and certain cancers can have a hereditary component. By sharing your family history, you empower your doctor to make informed decisions with you about your care plan.

Medications, Vitamins, and Supplements:

When visiting your doctor, please do not forget to disclose all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements. Even seemingly harmless over-the-counter medicines can interact with prescribed drugs or have unexpected side effects. A comprehensive list of your medications helps your doctor assess potential interactions and ensure your treatment plan is safe and effective.

Status of Your Health Issue:

Communicating the details of your health issue is essential for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Tell your doctor about the duration of the symptoms, how they started, and whether they have worsened, improved, or remained the same. This information provides valuable insights into the progression of your condition. Additionally, following up with your doctor after the visit is crucial, especially if your symptoms persist or worsen. This feedback allows your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment plan or recommend other care if needed.

Addressing Communication Challenges:

In cases where you feel your provider does not understand your concerns, advocate for yourself. Invest in a conversation, express your thoughts, and ensure your doctor hears and understands you.
If, for some reason, you are not able to communicate effectively or feel uncomfortable, consider seeking a new provider. Your health should be your top priority, and finding the right provider to be your health advocate is crucial.

Conclusion:

Effective communication between patients and healthcare providers is the cornerstone of quality care. By openly sharing your concerns, family history, medication details, and the status of your health issues, you empower your doctor to provide you with the best possible care. Patients should be active participants in their healthcare journeys. Work with your healthcare provider, forge stronger relationships, and help providers build the best healthcare plan possible.

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.
– Dr. BCW (Dr. Curry-Winchell)

Doctors Wish You Knew About Avoiding Cancer

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Dr BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, shares The #1 Thing Doctors Wish You Knew About Avoiding Cancer for Good.  Don’t miss this article.

read the full Eat This Not That article here

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  • Alcohol use and current smoking are associated with a higher risk of breast cancer.
  • A low-fat dietary pattern, which includes increase in fruits, vegetables, and grains, may reduce risk of death from breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
  • Regular, moderate physical activity may provide modest protection against breast cancer.”

In addition, getting annual mammograms helps detect cancer early and increases the chances of survival. Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital says, “The recommended age to start screening for breast cancer varies per society, organization, or governmental health agency. In our country, the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening at the age of 50 versus the American Cancer Society who recommends screening at the age of 40. It’s important to note, women should weigh the benefits and risks of screening tests when deciding whether to begin getting mammograms before age 50.”

See what else Dr. Curry-Winchell has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss this important topic.  It could save your life.

RSV Surge, Hospitals are Overwhelmed

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Dr. BCW talks RSV Surge as Hospitals are overwhelmed. Here’s What You Need to Know.

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With the holidays around the corner and RSV on the rise, health officials are urging people to take precautions. “Unlike Covid, R.S.V. can spread when people touch contaminated surfaces, “Emily Martin, an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health told the New York Times.  “It also spreads through respiratory droplets. So it’s a good idea to disinfect surfaces, particularly in settings like day care centers, where young children are constantly touching things, sneezing on things and sticking them in their mouths.”

While recent headlines are often about young children getting RSV, anyone can catch the virus and everyone is advised to take steps to avoid getting sick. “It’s important to know that RSV can affect all ages,”  Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital tells us. “It’s a viral illness that has a wide range of symptoms and severity that can resemble the common cold or respiratory distress (a term used to describe a display of struggling to breath that requires emergency care and hospitalization). Those under the age of one, or over the age of 65, or someone with underlying health conditions such as lung disease (asthma) are at an increased risk for complications.”…

See what else Dr. BCW has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss RSV surge hospitals are overwhelmed

Breast Cancer Signs Woman Over 50 Should Know

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, shares Signs of Breast Cancer Every Woman Over 50 Should Know with Eat This, Not That.

read the full Eat This, Not That article here

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…This means there is a 1 in 8 chance she will develop breast cancer. This also means there is a 7 in 8 chance she will never have the disease.” Eat This, Not That! Health spoke with experts who share what to know about breast cancer and signs to watch out for. As always, please consult your physician for medical advice. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.

…, Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital tells us, “This is complicated, the high rate is due to several reasons including access to mammogram screenings, limited resources within health literacy and late diagnosis. At this time, a breast cancer diagnosis in Black/African American versus White individuals are the same. However, it is extremely important to note, Black/African Americans are dying at a disproportionate higher rate…”

See what else Dr. Curry-Winchell has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss signs of Breast Cancer Every Woman Over 50 Should Know

5 Life-Saving Flu Tips Doctors Want You to Know

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, shares 5 Life-Saving Tips Doctors Want You to Know About the Flu as Cases Rise with Eat This, Not That.

read the full Eat This, Not That article here

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Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital explains, “We have seen an increase in the number of flu cases earlier than we have seen in the past which is concerning. Right now, it’s really hard to determine how deadly this season will be.”

Dr. Mark Fischer, Regional Medical Director at International SOS tells us, ”

According to the CDC, there’s been 1,300 deaths caused by the flu so far this season. This year’s flu season came earlier than we’re used to and has been proven to be more severe than we’ve seen in recent years. It remains too early in the flu season to determine if this year will be more deadly. It is essential to stay up to date with all of the recommended vaccinations.”

This is When You’re Most Contagious, Dr. Curry-Winchell explains, “You are most likely to transmit the flu virus in the first three to four days after your symptoms have started. The best piece of advice is to stay home if you’re feeling sick at all.” Dr. Mourani says, “The flu is most contagious in the first 3-4 days of symptoms but can be from 1 day before symptoms and up to 7 days….”

See what else Dr. BCW has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss 5 life-saving tips doctors want you to know about.

7 Ways to Stay Healthier Than Everyone Else

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, shares 7 Ways to Stay Healthier Than Everyone Else with Eat This, Not That

read the full Eat This, Not That article here

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Lifestyle choices go a long way in protecting your overall well-being and reducing the risk of serious health issues like some cancers, dementia, diabetes and heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the U.S. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Ninety percent of the nearly 18 million heart disease cases worldwide could be prevented by people adopting a healthier diet, doing regular exercise, and not smoking.”

In addition, the Cleveland Clinic states, “Heart disease is 90 percent treatable – everyone can prevent heart disease anywhere in the world, especially by eating foods that are low in salt and cholesterol, exercising regularly, and not smoking,” said Leslie Cho, M.D., Section Head for Preventive Cardiology and Cardiac Rehabilitation at Cleveland Clinic. “Even if a person has a family history of heart disease, we can still prevent and treat heart disease thanks to incredible advances in medicine.”

Smart lifestyle choices can also help prevent other major health concerns. Harvard Health states, “A study published this summer in the Journal Neurology followed over 70,000 health professionals for more than two decades. Those who reported eating a diet high in colorful fruits and vegetables had a significantly lower risk of subjective memory loss — which is a sign of dementia — compared with those who did not.”

See what else Dr. Curry-Winchell, has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss

Simple Ways to Never Get Sick According to Doctors

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell tells Eat This, Not That about some simple ways to never get sick.

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With a deadly virus looming over us and flu season around the corner, staying healthy is vital and not taking care of yourself puts you at greater risk for COVID-19 and other infections. That said, there’s simple things we can do to help prevent sickness and Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital shares with Eat This, Not That Health her tips for avoiding illness. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.

Wash Your Hands Throughout the Day

Dr. Curry-Winchell tells us, “Washing your hands after you use the restroom is a phrase we are all familiar with, however, it’s important to exercise this routine after each meal or snack, and when you get home. Throughout the day we shake people’s hands and touch several surfaces and objects. Washing your hands before you eat helps decrease the possibility of encountering bacteria or viruses that may cause you to get sick.”…

See what else Dr. BCW has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss simple ways to never get sick.

Dangerous Effects of Too Many Vitamins, Says MD

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, talks with Eat This, Not That about the dangerous effects of too many vitamins.

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We’ve all been told that taking vitamins is a good thing, but is it really? That depends on who you talk to. While many people can get the nutrients they need from eating a balanced diet, vitamin deficiency is a real issue for others and supplements can be a solution. That said, there’s harmful side effects to be aware of that Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital explains to us and before taking any vitamin, please consult with your physician first. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.

What Should People Know About Vitamins Before Taking Them?

Dr. Curry-Winchell emphasizes “First and foremost, make sure you discuss the vitamins you are taking with your healthcare provider. There is a myth that vitamins cannot cause harm. However, they can if taken in high quantities or with specific medications or health conditions including pregnancy. So be careful!”…

See what else Dr. BCW has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss the dangerous effects of too many vitamins.

The Startling Side Effect of High Blood Pressure, Says Study

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, talks with Eat This, Not That about the startling side effect of high blood pressure according to recent study.

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High blood pressure doesn’t make the headlines as much as other health concerns, but it’s a serious issue that millions struggle with. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports, “Nearly half of adults in the United States (47%, or 116 million) have hypertension, defined as a systolic blood pressure greater than 130 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure greater than 80 mmHg or are taking medication for hypertension.” When left untreated, high blood pressure can cause major health problems like “wear and tear of blood vessels, heart attack, kidney damage, and stroke,” Dr. Rahul Aggarwal, Interventional cardiologist, Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center part of the Palm Beach Health Network tells us. In addition, according to one study, high blood pressure has been linked to a startling side effect. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.

High Blood Pressure and the Link to Dementia

Christian Benedict, Associate Professor at Uppsala University’s Department of Neuroscience, and senior author of the study, explained in a press release accompanying the study shares that researchers observed 1000 Swedish older men who were followed for 24 years. The study revealed that blood pressure can vary throughout the day with lower readings at night that researchers called “dipping.” “The risk of getting a dementia diagnosis was 1.64 times higher among men with reverse dipping compared to those with normal dipping. Reverse dipping mainly increased the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia,” says Xiao Tan, postdoctoral fellow from the same department and first author of this research….

See what else Dr. Curry-Winchell has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss the startling side effect of high blood pressure, according to recent studies.

Sure Signs You Have the New COVID Variant

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, talks with Eat This, Not That about the sure signs you have the new COVID variant.

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Our lives have been turned upside down for over two years now thanks to COVID and while things are returning to normal, the pandemic isn’t over.  People are still getting infected daily with the virus and there’s an uptick of cases in many areas. In addition, there’s constantly new variants because the virus continues to mutate, which makes this feel like it’s never ending. Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital has been treating COVID patients since the beginning and Eat This, Not That! Health spoke with her about the latest variants and what to know about them. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.

What is the Latest COVID Variant and What Should People Know About It?

Dr. Curry-Winchell says, “BA.4 and BA.5 are the two new variants that are causing an uptick in cases. The subvariants are a concern because of their ability to transmit infection quickly (highly contagious) and re-infect people previously infected with COVID-19.”

See what else Dr. BCW has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss the sure signs you have the new COVID variant.