#thecitydoc

The CDC reports that some groups at high risk of HIV infection are still not getting tested as often as they should (at least yearly):

29% of men who have sex with men 42% of intravenous drugs users 59% of heterosexual women and men (but especially men as they are less likely to go to the doctor)

For more information click on this link: https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/hiv-testing/index.html

Asthma in the fall

With the falling of the leaves comes the cold weather and the change of season. This is also a time where asthma attacks are more common.  

Asthma is a disease that affects the lungs and can make it hard to take deep breaths. The airways get smaller because of more mucus and swelling.  Also, the muscle in the airways can get tighter.  Because of these changes, less air can get through.  

There are some things – triggers- that can make asthma worse. Some of the most common triggers at this time of year include: cold weather, pollen, and colds (viruses).  Ragweed and mold are common triggers during the fall.

Here are some tips to help avoid having an asthma attack this season:

1. Keep warm.  Make sure you are bundled up to avoid colds and cold air. Putting a scarf over the nose or mouth can help stop cold air from coming into the airways.  

2. Wash clothes worn outside. This is to get rid of the pollen that may stick to clothing throughout the day.  If you notice there is an allergy to the environment,  try to limit the time spent outside.

3. Wash your hands. Cut down on getting a virus by using soap and water or hand sanitizer.

4. Get the flu shot. A virus like flu or even a common cold can result in an asthma attack. Taking the flu shot can help avoid the life-threatening complications of asthma.

5. Take controller medications. There are two types of asthma medications.  The rescue inhaler (albuterol) is used by all people with asthma when they feel short of breath. To prevent frequent asthma attacks, some doctors give patients a medicine to take every day.   These can be inhaled steroids like Flovent or Advair.  Sometimes pills like Singular are given to control asthma made worse with allergies. These medications work, but they can only work if taken consistently.  

If there are any further questions, please contact your doctor.

Could Better Coping Skills Curb Rampant Drug Use?

A record number of Americans died of drug overdoses in 2015. Venis Wilder, M.D., ponders how family physicians can help in the latest Fresh Perspectives blog post. http://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20171030fp-coping.html