Greater Fresno Health Organization

It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you have symptoms of a serious condition, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe abdominal pain. In such cases, it may be more appropriate to go to the hospital rather than a doctor's office.

Some other symptoms that may warrant a trip to the hospital include:

• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Stroke symptoms (such as sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the face or body, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech)
• Severe head injury with loss of consciousness or persistent headache
• Severe bleeding that cannot be controlled
• Severe allergic reaction (such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat)
• Severe burns
• Severe and persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Overdose or poisoning

Chiropractors are health care professionals who treat conditions related to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches. They use manual adjustments to realign the spine and other joints to reduce pain and improve function.

You may consider seeing a chiropractor if you have:

• Back pain, neck pain, or headaches
• Joint pain, such as in the hips, knees, or shoulders
• Muscle tension or spasms
• Sciatica (pain that radiates down the leg)
• Stiffness or limited range of motion in the back, neck, or joints
• Whiplash or other types of injuries sustained in a car accident

The frequency of mental health appointments depends on several factors, including the type and severity of the condition being treated, the individual's response to treatment, and personal preferences.

For some people, seeing a mental health professional once a week may be sufficient for managing symptoms and maintaining progress. For others, more frequent appointments may be necessary, especially in the early stages of treatment. In some cases, people may find that they only need to see a mental health professional periodically for check-ins or to address new issues as they arise.

It's important to keep in mind that the frequency of appointments is a decision that should be made in collaboration with your mental health professional. They will take into consideration your individual needs and preferences, as well as your progress in therapy, to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you. Regular review and reassessment of your treatment plan can help ensure that you receive the right level of care to meet your needs and achieve your goals.

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common condition characterized by consistently elevated pressure in the arteries. Hypertension is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it usually has no symptoms in its early stages. This is why it is important to have regular blood pressure checks.

However, in some cases, people with severe hypertension may experience symptoms such as:

• Headaches
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Nausea
• Blurred vision
• Blood in the urine

It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's always best to have your blood pressure checked by a doctor if you have concerns. Hypertension is a treatable condition, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Regular monitoring and proper management of blood pressure through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular check-ups can help reduce the risk of these complications.

Diabetes is a condition in which the body has difficulty regulating its blood sugar levels. The following are some common signs and symptoms of diabetes:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Increased hunger
• Fatigue or weakness
• Blurred vision
• Slow wound healing
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• Recurrent infections
• Dark skin patches
• Dry, itchy skin

If you have any of these symptoms, it's important to speak with your doctor to determine if you have diabetes or another health condition. The only way to definitively diagnose diabetes is through a blood test, so your doctor may order a blood glucose test to check your blood sugar levels.

If you are at risk of developing diabetes, such as due to a family history of the condition or other risk factors, it's important to have regular check-ups with your doctor and to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular physical activity. This can help prevent or delay the onset of diabetes, or manage the condition if it has already been diagnosed.

The frequency of check-ups varies based on factors such as age, health status, and family medical history. Generally, it's recommended to have a check-up:

• Annually for general health
• Every 2 years for a routine dental check-up
• Every 1-5 years for a routine eye exam
• Women over the age of 21 should have a gynecological exam every 1-3 years

It's important to follow the recommendations of your primary care doctor and specialist based on your individual needs.

A well-child visit, also known as a well-baby check-up or well-child exam, is a routine medical appointment for infants, children, and adolescents. The purpose of these visits is to monitor the child's growth and development, provide preventive care, and identify and address any potential health problems early on.

During a well-child visit, a pediatrician or family physician will check the child's weight, height, and vital signs, perform a physical examination, and assess the child's developmental, behavioral, and emotional well-being. The doctor may also provide immunizations, give advice on nutrition and physical activity, and address any concerns or questions the parent or caregiver may have.

It's recommended to have well-child visits regularly, usually at least once a year, to ensure that children receive the care they need to stay healthy and reach their full potential.