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Yearly Archives: 2017

What Is “Flesh Eating Bacteria” and How Can You Avoid It?
Posted on September 8, 2017
You may have recently heard or seen a news report that someone along the Gulf Coast contracted a “flesh eating bacteria” after swimming or fishing leading to hospitalization or sometimes major surgery. Vibrio vulnificus, or the “flesh eating bacteria,” is a naturally occurring organism that is found in warm brackish waters, bays or gulfs, particularly during summer months.

Those with compromised immune systems are more likely to get Vibrio if exposed. However, healthy people can also develop an infection after eating raw seafood, particularly oysters, and exposing open wounds to brackish or salt water.

Prevention is important. According to the ADEM/ADPH Coastal Alabama Beach Monitoring Program, you can easily check the bacteria levels in bodies of water near Mobile, AL by clicking here. Avoid eating raw shellfish and wear protective gloves when handling raw seafood.

If you have a cut or abrasion, do your best to stay out of brackish or salt water or cover the wound with a waterproof bandage if there’s a possibility it could come into contact with water sources. As always, wash cuts or abrasions thoroughly with soap and water after potential exposure and call us if you develop signs of infection.
The Return of Football and Saturday Tailgating
Posted on September 1, 2017
Football season is here! Whether you cheer “Go Jags,” “War Eagle” or “Roll Tide,” I hope you enjoy the fun and excitement that football season brings and create lasting memories with friends and family. While it is easy to live weekend to weekend during football season, please do not forget to call and schedule your annual exam.

Annual exams should be scheduled near the time of your annual membership renewal. Annuals only take an hour or so and include fasting lab work. Please keep in mind when calling to schedule that it is best to complete your annual exam during the morning hours to prevent you from fasting for a longer period of time. For fasting lab work, please refrain from eating after midnight before your labs are drawn. You can drink water and/or black coffee with no cream or sugar.
Kayak for a Great Cause
Posted on August 15, 2017
The first annual Doggie Paddle fundraiser will take place on August 26th at the Five Rivers Delta Safaris. All proceeds will go to support Animal Shelters along the Gulf Coast.

Pets are welcome and you may bring kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddle boards. Rentals are available.

For more information about time, registration costs, and directions click here.
Learn How to Recognize a Stroke F.A.S.T. for Yourself or a Loved One
Posted on August 11, 2017
Did you know that stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in America and also a leading cause of adult disability? Despite these statistics, research shows that few people know what a stroke is and how to recognize one.

A stroke occurs when blood flow to an area of the brain is cut off, brain cells do not receive oxygen and begin to die. As a result, the abilities controlled by that area of the brain are lost. Some people recover completely. However, more than 2/3 of stroke survivors will have some type of disability.

If you or a loved one suspect that a stroke is occurring you need to act F.A.S.T. First, look at the FACE and ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop? Second, examine the ARMS and ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Third, pay attention to SPEECH and ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange? Last, TIME is important. If you observe any of these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.

To read more on recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke click here to visit the National Stroke Association website.
Back to School Traffic and Road Closures
Posted on August 5, 2017
The new school year is here! We hope your children have a wonderful first day back in class. The start of school always brings excitement for a new year, but also lots of traffic.

Access MD is located in the heart of Spring Hill and for most patients a very convenient commute. Summer has us all spoiled with the decrease in heavy morning and afternoon traffic along Old Shell Road. However, the school zones are back and carpool lines are here.

Adding to the traffic situation, we also have some nearby road closures. Please note that McGregor Road is closed between Old Shell Road and Dauphin Street to allow for the installation of sidewalks, curbs and gutters. Please take into consideration these things when commuting to the office for your appointment.

The month of August also brings an interesting and rare solar event! We hope that you and your family will be able to catch the Solar Eclipse on Monday, August 21st. Looking directly at the sun, even when it is partially covered by the moon, can cause serious eye damage. Make sure to use a pair of solar eclipse glasses to protect your eyes. Sunglasses are not adequate.
Holiday Office Hours
Posted on July 12, 2017
The office will be closed Tuesday, July 4th until Tuesday, July 11th.

As always, we will be available by phone during that time to help in any way with your medical needs.

Please call ahead to schedule an appointment or meeting time.
We Wish You a Happy and Safe Fourth of July Celebration
Posted on July 4, 2017
We would like to take this opportunity to wish each of you a Happy Fourth of July!

This year, Battleship Memorial Park is hosting “Fireworks on the Fantail” on July 4th from 7:00 PM until 10:00 PM. The event will take place on the deck of the USS ALABAMA. Enjoy barbeque, drinks, music, an ice cream bar and the best seats in town for viewing the City of Mobile’s July 4th Fireworks spectacular.

For more information on ticket prices and where to purchase tickets, click here. All proceeds benefit restoration projects aboard the USS ALABAMA.
Summertime Is a Great Opportunity to Get Vaccinated
Posted on July 1, 2017
Are you up to date on your recommended adult vaccinations? We have noticed a rise in the number patients that are due for vaccines to protect against pneumonia, tetanus, and shingles. When to get these vaccines becomes confusing and remembering when you are due is difficult. For an easy to read adult vaccine schedule, please click here.

Did you know that there are two pneumonia shots? The “old” pneumonia vaccine is called the PPSV 23. The “new” pneumonia vaccine is called the PCV13. We recommend that anyone over the age of 65 receive both of these vaccines at least one year apart from each other.

Tdap is a combination vaccine that protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Adults should receive a one time dose of Tdap in adulthood, especially if you are around newborn babies.

The “shingles shot,” also known as the Zoster vaccine, protects against shingles and should be given once in a lifetime to adults over the age of 65.

We have found that it is much more convenient for patients to go to their local pharmacy to receive these vaccines. Most pharmacies carry these vaccines in stock or can order and receive them in one to two business days. As always, we will offer flu shots in the office starting in October.
Eat Fresh Buy Local
Posted on June 28, 2017
Looking for a great way to spend your Thursday afternoons or Saturday mornings? Mobile offers two Market in the Park locations throughout the summer until July 29th. This is a great way to stock up on fresh summer vegetables and fruit for the week all while supporting local farmers!

On Thursdays from 3:00 until 6:00 pm you can find Market in the Park at Lavretta Park. Click here for more information and directions. On Saturday mornings from 7:30 am until noon stop by Spot of Tea for a delicious glass of Strawberry Tea to sip while you shop and walk across the street to Cathedral Square to catch the second Market in the Park opportunity! Click here for more information and directions.

Looking for a quick and healthy recipe option for your fresh fruit and vegetables? Click here to browse different Farmers Market recipes from health.com.

Don’t forget your sunscreen and a bottle of water!
Men’s Health Month
Posted on June 16, 2017
This month we hope to raise awareness for preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men. Did you know that men are at an increased risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke and depression?

Also, approximately 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. The good news is that screening for these potential health problems is quick and easy and can be done in one office visit!

Please call to schedule your annual exam and fasting lab work.

Preventative health care and maintenance saves lives!

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