In the US, millions of people are struggling with obesity. They are at risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, and a range of other conditions. Additionally, they often have trouble taking part in activities they enjoy. At Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, we offer comprehensive weight management programs that help patients to achieve their goals in the long term.

Weight Management: What Are the Keys to Success? 

Learning the principles behind Weight Management is easy, but implementing them consistently is extremely challenging. Studies have shown that around 80% of people who lose a significant amount of weight eventually gain it back. That’s why a good management program doesn’t end when the patient has achieved their target weight. Instead, it’s a long-term support system that involves setting and sticking to realistic goals.

When a patient comes to see us about weight loss, we start by discussing their motivation and medical background. Then, we provide them with accurate information about a range of weight-related topics. We help them to set goals and support them as they lose weight. Once they’ve reached their target, we encourage them to maintain their healthy lifestyles and keep checking in regularly, so they don’t fall back into old habits.

Motivation 

If you’re not motivated to lose weight, it’s almost impossible for you to succeed. That’s why we’ll invite you to an initial consultation, during which we discuss your reasons for losing weight and evaluate whether our program is a good fit for you. We might ask you about your current health issues and how your weight is contributing to them.

Then, we’ll dig deeper to find out why you’re struggling with weight loss. Are you an emotional eater? Do you use food as a way of comforting yourself, or do you see it as a reward? Do you have any medical issues, and do you take medications that contribute to the problem? Once we have a better understanding of your situation, we can provide you with the resources you need to successfully lose weight and keep it off.

Accurate Information 

One of the biggest problems is that most people are misinformed when it comes to weight loss, nutrition, and exercise. There are hundreds of fad diets out there, and most of them don’t provide patients with the results they desire. Some are even dangerous because they involve extreme exercise and unhealthy fasting practices.

During the initial consultation, we ask you about diets you’ve tried, and you get a chance to ask questions about weight loss. We also provide you with helpful resources that explain how nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle habits affect your body’s metabolism and weight. Once you have a better understanding of how to safely reach your goals, your chances of success increase dramatically.

Nutrition 

At the beginning of your weight loss journey, you might want to eat as little as possible to shed your excess pounds more quickly. But this isn’t a good idea because it leads to cravings, and it can be dangerous. Most people should eat around 1,500 kcal per day if they want to lose one pound a week or every two weeks, but it depends on the individual’s weight, age, goals, and metabolism.

As part of your weight loss program, we’ll help you to come up with a healthy meal plan that takes into account your preferences and intolerances. The focus is always on making meals as delicious and nutritious as possible because weight loss shouldn’t be painful or damage your body.

Exercise 

The CDC recommends that adults perform muscle-strengthening exercises two times a week and exercise for at least 150 minutes every week. If you haven’t exercised in a long time, this might sound like a lot. Don’t overwhelm your body by going to the gym every day. Instead, slowly increase your activity levels, so your muscles, tendons, and ligaments have time to adjust.

Start with low-impact exercises if you have joint problems. Some good options include swimming, water aerobics, and cycling. Over time, you can try more strenuous types of exercise like dancing, weight lifting, and running. If you have medical conditions that might make exercise unsafe for you, speak to your doctor before starting a new routine.

Lifestyle Habits 

Several other lifestyle habits either help or hinder your weight loss journey. If you’re stressed all the time, your body produces too much cortisol, which affects your metabolism. You might crave sweet and fatty foods, so it’s harder for you to stick to a healthy diet. A lack of sleep has a similar effect on the body because it places stress on your system.

If you’re stressed or overworked, speak to your family, friends, and boss about your situation. They might be able to reduce your workload or take on some of your daily tasks. Stick to a regular schedule that includes an evening routine and a set bedtime. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, and Tai Chi. Spending time in nature also has a calming effect on the body.

Realistic Goals 

Some people come to the clinic believing that they can lose 50 pounds in a few months. They might have read articles online or been told about fad diets by their friends. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to safely lose large amounts of weight in a short time. Every good weight management program takes at least a year or two.

Most researchers agree that humans can lose one to two pounds per week. At that rate, the body has enough time to adjust, and the patient is unlikely to become ill or experience significant side effects related to their weight loss journey. Their new habits are sustainable because they’re not starving themselves or doing unhealthy amounts of exercise. For this reason, patients who set realistic goals are more likely to stick to the program long-term.

A Good Team

You can’t lose weight on your own. To succeed, you need the support of a medical team and those around you. At Southside Medical, we educate patients and keep them accountable. We often work with people for many years. Their sessions at the clinic help them to stick to their plans and provide them with much-needed support.

During your weight loss journey, you won’t be able to regularly visit fast food restaurants, eat unhealthy meals, and drink large quantities of alcohol. Speak to your loved ones before you get started, so they can help you to adjust. You might also want to join a support group, either online or in person. That way, you can exchange ideas and stories with people who are on a similar path.

A Medical Evaluation 

Most people are overweight because they don’t lead a healthy lifestyle. However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, health issues or medications contribute to the problem. In this case, the patient might not be able to lose weight even if they stick to a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

If you’re struggling to shed your extra pounds, we might offer you a comprehensive medical evaluation. We can analyze your blood to figure out whether a nutrient deficiency is putting stress on your system. We might also examine your metabolism to determine the best weight loss strategy for your body type.

A Strategy for Setbacks 

Setbacks are inevitable. At some point, you’ll slip up and binge on unhealthy foods or drinks. You might also plateau for several weeks at a time. Understand that this is normal, and it doesn’t have to be the end of your weight loss journey. Discuss your challenges with us, so we can help you get back on track.

A Long-Term Plan 

Your journey isn’t over once you’ve reached your target weight. Although losing dozens of pounds is a massive achievement, maintaining your new body shape, in the long run, is a much harder challenge. That’s why we recommend that you keep seeing us or participating in a support group periodically, even if you’ve already achieved your goals.

During the maintenance meetings, you can discuss your lifestyle habits and general health and ask questions. The sessions are a safe space for you to explore new ideas and talk about sensitive topics.

Get Rid of Excess Weight with a Comprehensive Weight Loss Plan 

The majority of people who go on a diet without consulting healthcare professionals don’t achieve their goals. If they manage to lose weight, they eventually gain it back because they don’t have the knowledge and skills to maintain their healthy habits. That’s why supervised weight management programs are so important. Contact us at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA to speak to an expert about weight loss. 

What Is Included in a Routine Eye Exam?

Basic Tests

Slit Lamp Test

Pupillary Reaction Test

Visual Acuity and Refraction Test

Pupil Dilation Test

What Is Involved in a Diabetic Eye Exam?

What Happens During a Dry Eye Exam?

What Are Common Eye Disorders and Diseases?

Macular Degeneration

Cataract

Glaucoma

Retinal Detachment

Refractive Errors

Amblyopia

Conjunctivitis

Are Eye Disorders or Diseases Genetic?

How Often Do You Need Eye Exams?

Don’t Wait to Schedule Eye Exams

Having a dental appointment is an important step in maintaining your oral health. At Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, we specialize in all areas of dentistry and are dedicated to helping you have a successful and comfortable experience. To ensure you get the most out of your trip to the dentist, here are some tips on what to avoid prior to visiting your doctor.

What Should You Avoid Before a Dentist Appointment?

Forgetting to Brush Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth before a dental appointment is incredibly important for two reasons. First, it helps to reduce plaque and bacteria on the surface of your teeth and gums, which can help reduce the amount of time the dentist spends cleaning them. It also helps to prevent potential bad breath, which can be off-putting for both you and your dentist.

Drinking Sugary Beverages

Drinking large quantities of sugary beverages before a dental appointment can disrupt blood tests that are conducted during checkups. These tests provide dentists with essential information on your glucose level and things like white blood cell count. These are all helpful in administering the right care.

For instance, if you are diabetic or have an autoimmune disorder, a full set of blood tests can give the dentist an idea of the additional steps that may need to be taken during your dental procedure. Moreover, a thorough set of pre-dental exams can help address specific concerns depending on what you’re getting treated or where in your mouth the work is taking place.

Sugary beverages increase glucose levels in your blood, leading to lower pH levels in your mouth. Low pH levels may alter the results of common dental tests such as plaque analysis. Therefore, avoiding sugary beverages and foods prior to a dental appointment can ensure that all tests are conducted safely and accurately.

Eating Just Before Surgery

It’s highly advised to avoid eating or drinking anything for at least eight hours before any surgical procedure. This allows your body ample time to process any food in your stomach prior to surgery.

Consuming food just before undergoing an operation may lead to side effects such as nausea and vomiting due to the mixing of anesthetics with food particles. Moreover, it may also slow down recovery from anesthesia after surgery since your body will need to work harder than usual to clear toxins from the bloodstream.

Eating Anything That Makes Your Teeth Feel Sensitive

Tooth sensitivity is a condition in which certain foods, drinks, and temperatures cause pain or discomfort in the teeth. When you come into the office for a dental appointment, it’s best to avoid any foods or drinks that may make your teeth feel sensitive. Not only will this help keep you comfortable during the visit, but it will also allow our dentistry team to get an accurate assessment of your current oral health status.

Wearing Too Much Makeup

Doing your makeup can be part of your daily routine. However, it can affect the ease with which the doctor operates. For example, during a cavity-filling procedure, the doctor may need to hold your face to keep it still for a few minutes. When you’re wearing heavy makeup, those beauty products can be transferred onto the doctor’s gloves and other medical equipment in use.

This mess can hinder the easy handling of medical instruments and even put treatment at risk. To ensure that you get stress-free dental care every visit, make sure you arrive with little or no makeup.

Wearing Fitting Clothes

Depending on the type of treatment, a patient may be seated in one position for an extended period of time. Tight clothing that clings to the body or restricts movement can trap heat closer to the skin, potentially causing excessive sweating. This is not only uncomfortable, but it can also lead to skin irritation and an overall feeling of unease during a procedure.

The fabric used in loose-fitting garments is usually light and breathable, allowing air circulation to keep the body at a comfortable temperature. Additionally, loose clothing allows more freedom of movement, which helps reduce muscle tension caused by any possible awkward positioning throughout the duration of the treatment. This makes it easier to stay in one position without feeling distracted from any irritating sensations caused by tight fabric rubbing against various areas of the body.

Alcohol

Alcohol has many different effects on the body, ranging from mild to severe. Depending on how much and how often you drink, alcohol can cause dehydration, fatigue, impaired coordination, mood disturbances, and even depression. In terms of dental treatments such as surgery, the negative effects of drinking alcohol become even more pronounced. Consuming alcohol before a dental procedure can increase bleeding during surgery and reduce healing time.

In addition, alcohol can interfere with anesthesia absorption, reducing the amount that is actually taken into your system. This means that you may require higher doses of anesthesia than usual to achieve the desired effects during your dental procedure. Additionally, it will take longer for the anesthesia to kick in, increasing the length of time spent in the doctor’s office.

Smoking

Smoking can lead to a multitude of issues in regards to your oral health, including but not limited to gum disease, tooth discoloration, and an increased risk of developing oral cancer. Tobacco has numerous negative impacts on our bodies beyond just our mouths, which include heart and lung diseases, increased risk of stroke, weakened immune system, and decreased fertility.

When it comes to undergoing dental treatments such as surgeries or fillings, smoking can pose a significant obstacle to achieving successful outcomes. Those who smoke are more likely to experience complications during surgery due to reduced blood flow and oxygen supply in the body’s tissues. Smokers may also find that their bodies take longer than usual to heal due to a weakened immune system. Furthermore, tobacco use can increase the chance of infection after surgery.

Taking Pain Killers

Over the years that we have been practicing dentistry, we have encountered numerous patients who come in after having already taken an analgesic. While it may seem like a good way to manage your pain levels prior to arriving for your appointment, it can actually be counterproductive. Painkillers can mask the underlying issue and make it difficult for us to accurately diagnose and treat any issues.

Our priority is always to ensure that our patients are comfortable throughout their visit with us, and so we take the time to assess each individual’s needs to provide the best possible care. We understand how anxious or nervous some patients can feel when visiting a dentist. Therefore, during appointments, we strive to create a calming environment by addressing health concerns and any fears the patient may have.

We also discuss different anesthesia options available to ensure that our patients receive appropriate relief from any discomfort they may experience during certain procedures. These options include local anesthetics, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation medication, or general anesthesia.

What Should You Eat the Night Before Dental Surgery?

It’s crucial to consider what you will eat the night before dental surgery. Eating a protein-rich meal is key to helping you avoid getting hungry before the surgery, as protein will keep you feeling fuller for longer. This will stop you from feeling tempted to snack on unhealthy food and sabotaging your preparation efforts. Protein-rich foods include lean meats, fish, legumes, eggs, nuts, and dairy products.

Other Benefits of Protein-Rich Meals

Protein-rich meals will provide more than just a full stomach; they are also an essential part of helping your body stay healthy after surgery. When we eat food, our bodies break down proteins into amino acids. These amino acids form enzymes, hormones, and other critical components of the body’s regulatory processes.

Eating foods containing high amounts of protein prior to surgery ensures that your body has an ample supply of amino acids. Protein provides essential nutrients for wound healing, tissue repair, and angiogenesis following surgery.

Contact Your Local Dentistry Team Today

Having a healthy and beautiful smile is achievable with the help of a skilled dentist, and at Southside Medical Center, our team provides an array of dental treatments. From cleanings to crowns and root canals, our goal is to make sure every smile can shine its brightest. Contact us at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, to book an appointment.

People who have been diagnosed with diabetes or pre-diabetes have to make some lifestyle changes and start monitoring their cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. These changes can be tough, so it’s important to get the right kind of support. At Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, we offer group diabetes management classes and individual check-ups with leading doctors.

What Are the Main Goals of Diabetes Management?

Patients with diabetes can live a normal, healthy life and participate in virtually all the activities they used to enjoy. However, they have to take better care of their health and monitor their body to make sure they aren’t at risk of complications like heart disease. The best way to stay on track is to develop a comprehensive management program.

Every person’s journey is unique, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. At the clinic, we offer advice during our group classes, but each patient comes up with a program that suits their lifestyle and medical background. The plan usually includes ideas for healthy eating, a weekly exercise routine, and coping strategies.

Reducing the Risk of Complications 

One of the most important goals of any management plan is reducing the risk of complications and diabetes-related diseases. That’s why there is often an emphasis on healthy living and positive coping strategies. The first thing we do when coming up with a management plan is to evaluate the patient’s current lifestyle to determine whether they are at risk of health issues.

If you smoke, drink a lot of alcohol, fail to take care of your feet and teeth, and are frequently stressed, it’s much more likely that you’ll eventually suffer from a stroke or heart attack. People with diabetes and pre-diabetes are more susceptible to cardiovascular diseases, so they must take extra care to remain healthy.

Coming Up with a Suitable Meal Plan

Diet is an important component of every management plan. There is no specific diet that works for everyone with diabetes. When determining what foods to recommend to a patient, we consider their body composition, age, fitness level, other medical issues, and personal preferences. We almost always suggest eating from all major food groups: starchy foods, protein foods, oils and spreads, dairy and alternatives, and fruit and veg.

However, the types of foods in these groups and the ratios are different, depending on the individual’s needs. Someone who does a lot of exercises might need to eat lots of protein-rich dishes, while those who live a more sedentary lifestyle need to eat more vegetables, which don’t typically have as many calories. It’s best to eat very small quantities of foods that don’t provide nutritional value. They include candy, white chocolate, and pastries.

Designing an Exercise Routine

People with diabetes have to monitor their blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure. They often find that all three improve when they start to exercise regularly. Physical activity improves a person’s mood, strengthens all their tissues, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Aerobic exercise is particularly beneficial because it improves the function of the heart muscle.

Some great activities are swimming, cycling, walking, jogging, and dancing. People who prefer to exercise at a gym can use the treadmill or the elliptical machine. Strength training is also crucial because it helps to lower blood sugar levels and makes the body more sensitive to insulin. Exercises using handled weights, weight machines, and exercise bands are especially beneficial.

Dealing with Stress 

Stress makes the symptoms of almost every condition worse, and it also makes it more challenging for patients to stick to a healthy routine. That’s why the best diabetes programs address this issue. During our management classes, we provide patients with information and coping skills that help them stay healthy during stressful periods.

We might talk about short breathing, stretching, or mindfulness routines they can do to calm their bodies down and clear their minds. We also discuss how patients can prepare for stressful periods. Some great strategies are freezing healthy meals ahead of time, taking supplements, exercising for at least 15-20 minutes a day, and avoiding substances like drugs and alcohol.

Setting Manageable Goals – and Sticking to Them  

You won’t be perfect from the start, even if you have a great management program. If you try to implement all the ideas at once, it’s unlikely that you’ll succeed because you’ll be so overwhelmed by the many changes you have to make. That’s why the best programs start gradually with small lifestyle changes. You might begin by limiting your meals to once or twice a week and cooking one or two new dishes each week.

If you don’t drink enough, we’ll ask you to increase your fluid intake slowly, until you’ve reached the desired level. The same goes for exercise. You’re much more likely to get injured if you don’t build up to your new exercise routine slowly. We work with all our group session participants to set manageable goals, and we encourage them to track their progress with the help of journals, timelines, and checklists.

What Kind of Help Is Necessary? 

A diabetes management program can help you to cope with daily life and reduce the likelihood of complications. When you implement it consistently, your symptoms are reduced, and you feel more energized. However, the program doesn’t replace your regular visits to

Regular Check-Ups

People with diabetes have to work closely with a doctor to manage their condition. At first, the checkups might need to take place every one to two months because the patient has to get used to their new routine, and they require supervision. Once they’ve adjusted to living with diabetes, they can drop down to one visit every three to six months.

During the appointment, we check your blood sugar, blood pressure, the function of your kidneys, and cholesterol levels. We also answer your questions and help you with issues you’ve been experiencing. Once a year, we check your feet for ulcers, infections, and a loss of feeling. We might also ask you to go for an annual eye test because you’re susceptible to damaged blood vessels.

Group Classes 

We highly recommend that people who have recently been diagnosed with diabetes attend our group management classes. During the sessions, we discuss important topics like how to reduce the likelihood of complications, how to eat right, what type of exercise is best for people with diabetes, and how to cope when stressed or unwell.

Aside from discussing the facts, we speak about coping methods and how to make sure you stick to the plan. Our group classes are a great place for you to meet other people in a similar situation. This is especially important if you don’t know many people who have diabetes. We also welcome family members and friends of people struggling with this condition.

How Much Does Diabetes Care Cost? 

Private insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare cover many of the costs related to diabetes. When you first come to the clinic, we’ll check your insurance and let you know which of our treatments are covered. Because we want to make our group classes accessible to a wide range of patients, they are free.

Do I Need Management Classes if I’m Pre-Diabetic? 

Prediabetes is a serious medical condition. If you’ve been diagnosed, your blood sugar levels are elevated, but they are not high enough yet for you to be considered diabetic. Almost 100 million Americans have prediabetes, so this is a very common issue. Fortunately, it is much easier to address than type 2 diabetes, and in some cases, it is even reversible.

If a doctor has told you that you’re at risk of diabetes, take steps to improve your lifestyle now. Attend our management classes to find out more about how to live a healthy lifestyle and manage your blood sugar. By following the same health and lifestyle guidance as someone who has type 2 diabetes, you can prevent serious illness and live a longer, healthier life.

Manage Your Diabetes and Improve Your Overall Health 

Diabetes management is crucial because it helps patients to live a healthy life despite their condition. The main goal is to reduce the risk of complications. During our group and individual sessions, patients learn to improve their diet, safely increase their exercise levels, deal with stressful situations, and set manageable goals. Get in touch with us at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA to enroll in one of our programs. 

Substance abuse is a common and potentially fatal problem. People get addicted to prescription drugs, illegal drugs, alcohol, or nicotine. At Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, we help patients to recognize their addictions and figure out the best way forward. Some need residential treatment, while others can be treated on an outpatient basis. Read on to find out about the signs of addiction.

What Are the Signs of Substance Abuse?

Most people can’t recover from addiction until they’ve acknowledged the problem and worked with a professional. Recognizing the signs of addiction is the first step. Not everyone reacts to illegal drugs and alcohol in the same way, but there are some common patterns. Most patients experience physical symptoms, psychological issues, and changes to their behavior and relationships.

Psychological Symptoms

Many of the psychological signs of substance abuse use are similar to the symptoms of mental health conditions. Patients might have trouble concentrating and struggle to complete tasks they used to manage easily. They might experience mood swings and more unstable emotions. Many people are defensive about their addictions, so they become angry when someone brings up the issue.

Different drugs cause different symptoms, and it is often hard to tell whether a psychological issue is related to drug use, stress, or another lifestyle factor. Some substances like cocaine can cause paranoia, while certain prescription drugs cause memory loss when consumed in large doses. Existing mental health conditions are often exacerbated after a patient develops an addiction.

Physical Symptoms

People’s appearance changes when they become addicted to harmful substances. They are no longer able to take care of themselves, so they might look unkempt and unwashed. Many drugs suppress appetite or change the function of the digestive system, so the patient loses weight and appears gaunt and pale. They might also have marks on their skin, slurred speech, and persistent itching.

Over time, many people develop medical conditions related to their addiction. Some common issues are lung disease, cancer, and stroke. Patients who inject drugs might contract HIV/AIDS or Hepatitis B and C if they share needles with other users. They might develop a skin infection due to exposure to bacteria on the shared equipment.

Behavioral and Social Symptoms

Family members and friends often notice a change in the behavior of the person struggling with addiction. They might become more secretive to hide their problem. They withdraw from socializing and stop participating in activities they used to enjoy. Often, the patient no longer performs well at school or work, and they might be more absent than before.

Once the person notices that their behavior is problematic, they might attempt to stop using drugs or drinking alcohol. However, getting rid of an addiction is extremely difficult, so it’s unlikely that they will succeed without professional help. Family and friends often become frustrated when their loved one continues to use the substance, despite the negative consequences.

Paraphernalia

If you suspect that your loved one is addicted to drugs or alcohol, check for paraphernalia among their things. Some of the objects to look out for include cigarette wrappers, pipes, syringes, soiled cotton swabs, cut-up straws, empty wine or beer bottles, razor blades, bongs, burnt bottle caps or spoons, rolled-up banknotes, and lighters. Prescription drugs don’t require paraphernalia, but you might notice medicine bottles from more than one doctor.

After you’ve found objects related to drug or alcohol use, take some time to process your emotions before speaking to your loved one. It’s important to remain calm during discussions. Saying how you feel about the issue is a good starting point because it shows the person how their actions affect you. Tell them that you’re worried about their safety and that you’re here for them during the recovery period.

What To Do Next

Once you’ve recognized that you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, it’s important to take action. If the problem is addressed within a few months, the likelihood of long-term physical and mental health consequences is lower. People who have been addicted for many years have a much harder time recovering and staying away from alcohol and drugs.

There are several treatment options. Many people start by going to a residential clinic, where they can recover without having to worry about temptation. When they go back home, they might still need outpatient therapy and medicine to manage their addiction. In Atlanta, there are many substance abuse self-help groups that help people to stay on track. Sometimes, alternative treatments can complement the traditional approach.

Residential Treatment

It’s often difficult for patients to beat their addiction while living in their familiar environment. They might be surrounded by other drug users, and it is too easy for them to access the substance they are struggling with. There are facilities where patients can spend a few weeks or months recovering from their addiction.

These clinics are drug-free, so patients don’t have to deal with temptation. The other residents are also trying to beat their addiction, and the environment is supportive. Patients receive counseling and professional care every day, and they are supervised.

Outpatient Therapy

After leaving the facility, patients continue to recover in their familiar environment. They are still supervised by an addiction counselor and a therapist. These professionals make sure that the patient doesn’t fall back into old habits.

It’s important to create a supportive environment, especially during the first year of recovery. In some cases, the family members of the person struggling with addiction also see a therapist. During their sessions, they learn how to help their loved ones remain sober.

Medicine

Several types of medications can help patients reduce the chance of a relapse. Two of the most common ones are Methadone and Naltrexone. Methadone is a replacement opiate, and it reduces the patient’s withdrawal symptoms. Naltrexone reduces and suppresses opioid cravings by blocking opioid receptors.

If you’ve been struggling with substance abuse, speak to us about these drugs. We can prescribe them if you’re serious about your recovery and have made the necessary lifestyle changes. Typically, anti-addiction drugs are used for up to 12 weeks, but it depends on your situation. You might need to use them for longer if you’ve been addicted to drugs for many years.

Self-Help Groups

It’s important to get professional help when trying to recover from an addiction. Counselors and therapists can keep patients on track, help them deal with a relapse, and prescribe medication when necessary. However, support from peers is just as important. If friends and family members have never struggled with addiction, they might not understand what the patient is going through.

As a result, a person struggling with addiction might feel alone and misunderstood. A local or online self-help group can provide relief. By connecting with others who are going through a similar situation, patients can stay on track more easily. There are also support groups for friends and family members.

Alternative Treatments

Several alternative treatments can provide relief. Some people respond well to hypnotherapy, acupuncture, or biofeedback. These methods are considered holistic, so they don’t involve ingesting chemicals or undergoing an operation. Most alternative treatments aim to address the whole body and the underlying issues that caused the addiction.

They work particularly well on patients who are struggling with addiction due to excessive stress or childhood trauma. Alternative treatments are meant to supplement, not replace other methods like medication and therapy. They can be highly effective when used in combination with a comprehensive recovery plan.

What Are the Stages of Recovery?

When talking about recovery, we often distinguish between three stages. Early recovery is the time spent in a facility, during which the patient might experience physical withdrawal symptoms. Patients are treated by counselors and therapists, and they might attend self-help groups. Middle recovery is when the person makes significant lifestyle changes to prevent a relapse.

They might start new relationships, end unhealthy ones, and change their work environment. Late recovery lasts for the rest of the patient’s life. It involves focusing on positive relationships and goals, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and getting help whenever the cravings return.

Get Help with Your Addiction Now

Substance abuse isn’t always easy to recognize, especially in the early stages. Over time, patients might display psychological, physical, behavioral, and social symptoms. It’s important to seek help as soon as possible because it’s unlikely that the problem will resolve itself. Get in touch with us at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA to book an appointment with a specialist.

Millions of Americans are looking to lose weight. But this is an extremely challenging task and even those who succeed often gain back the weight they’ve lost within a few years. At Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, we offer weight management programs to all patients looking to achieve their ideal body shape. Today, we’ll examine how effective these weight management program are and what you can do to support your weight loss journey.

How Effective Are Weight Management Programs?

Around 90% of the people who go on a diet and lose weight eventually gain back the extra pounds. This is because long-term weight loss is extremely difficult and requires a lot of discipline. Once the person has achieved their goal, they often relax and fall back into their old patterns. The odds are much better for patients who seek help at the clinic because they have the right kind of information and guidance.

With the support of an expert, you can lose weight much more effectively because you’ll have easy access to good information whenever you have questions or concerns. Thanks to our classes and one-on-one support, you’ll be held accountable, so you stick to your new, healthy habits more easily. We’ll also discuss how to keep the weight off once you’ve lost it.

Lifestyle Changes

You can’t lose weight without making some lifestyle changes. Eating right and exercising are the two most effective weight loss measures, and it’s almost impossible to see good results without them. Most people who are overweight eat too much or the wrong foods or put their bodies under a lot of stress every day.

When you first come to the clinic, we’ll speak to you about your lifestyle and determine which factors are contributing to your problems with your weight. Based on this assessment, we’ll either suggest our classes, one-on-one sessions with a nutritionist, or both. No matter what kind of program you’re joining, adjusting your lifestyle is key.

Management Classes 

Many people don’t have the right tools to make healthy choices. Every day, the media presents us with attractive images of unhealthy foods, which tempt us to buy the wrong products. In the supermarket, sugary and fatty snacks are often displayed prominently, and it’s easier to grab them instead of walking down the aisle to find the healthier alternative. On the internet, a lot of the information related to nutrition, weight loss, and exercise is misleading.

Our classes provide patients with the information they need to lead a healthy lifestyle. We teach how to check the nutrition labels, which substances to avoid, and how to calculate the number of calories per meal. Aside from nutrition, we cover topics like exercising, drinking plenty of water, and reducing stress. We also discuss addictive substances like alcohol and nicotine and how they affect a patient’s weight loss journey.

Support from a Nutritionist 

Gaining access to the right information is a great first step that helps patients to avoid the unhealthiest and most damaging foods. But if you’re looking to lose a large amount of weight, it might not be enough. To achieve your goal, you need individualized support from a nutritionist, who will come up with a meal plan based on your individual goals, food preferences, body composition, and health.

Because every patient is different, a weight loss method that works well for one person might not be suitable for someone else. An experienced nutritionist will take into consideration various factors when putting together your meal plan. They’ll make sure that you not only make healthy choices but that your plan fits your lifestyle and appeals to your taste buds. That way, it’s much more sustainable, and your odds of success are high.

Medical Interventions 

Sometimes, holistic methods like exercising and dieting aren’t enough to help people lose the desired amount of weight. Patients who have been overweight for a long time or have tried dieting several times might benefit from medication or even surgical intervention. There are several drugs that either curb a person’s appetite or make them feel full more quickly.

While these medications are effective, some of them come with side effects, so it’s important to always speak to a doctor before taking weight loss drugs. Gastric bypass surgery or sleeve gastrectomy are common types of weight loss surgery. They can be effective, but only if the patient is dedicated to leading a healthy lifestyle and doesn’t revert to their old patterns once they’ve lost some weight.

Tips for Effective Weight Loss 

During the initial weight loss phase, many patients are motivated, especially once they see the change in their body shape. If you eat right, exercise regularly, and reduce your stress levels, it’s highly likely that you’ll see a change in your appearance within a few weeks or months. However, this is only the first step. As discussed, most people don’t keep the weight off because they don’t stick to their new lifestyle habits in the long run.

There are several things you can do to avoid temptation and make behavioral changes more permanent. Take part in weight management classes to get the social support you need, choose foods that are both healthy and delicious and plan your meals at the start of each week. Choose creative and fun types of exercise so you’re not tempted to give up after a few months.

Eat Healthy and Delicious Foods 

When you hear the word dieting, do you think of restrictions and cutting out the foods you enjoy? The problem with diets is that most people associate them with stress and frustration because they feel limited in their choices. It doesn’t have to be this way. Nowadays, there are countless delicious and healthy foods available. Instead of restricting the number of foods you eat, why not expand it?

Try at least one new healthy recipe per week, and incorporate it into your regular diet if you like it. When you go out with friends, choose a restaurant that offers healthy choices. Greek, Japanese, and Korean foods are some of the healthiest in the world, so restaurants from those cultures are great.

Plan Ahead Every Week 

When you’re in the middle of a busy workday, you don’t have time to think about preparing or selecting healthy foods. You’re much more likely to choose something sugary and fatty from the office vending machine or the local fast-food place. Avoid the temptation by planning and preparing your meals and snacks ahead of time.

Spend an hour or two coming up with a weekly meal plan, and prepare as many foods as you can. If you batch-cook, you can create portion-sized pots that can be taken out of the fridge or freezer one at a time. That way, you don’t have to decide what and how much to eat during the work week.

Choose Exercise that Suits Your Lifestyle 

Regular exercise keeps your body healthy and supports your weight loss journey. Resistance work, like lifting weights, is particularly beneficial because it increases your muscle mass, and muscle burns calories more than fat.

Don’t do exercise that puts pressure on your joints or isn’t enjoyable. You’re unlikely to keep it up for many years unless you like what you do. Some people thrive in a group class environment because they are motivated by the challenge and social aspect. Others need one-to-one support from a personal trainer, who keeps them accountable. Experiment with different types of exercise, classes, and locations to figure out what works best for you.

Find Social Support 

If everyone around you is eating unhealthy foods, gaining a lot of weight, and dismissing your efforts, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll succeed. Before you start your weight loss journey, get your family and friends on board. They can help keep you accountable and support you by not offering you foods that slow down your progress.

Sometimes, it’s hard for patients to get enough support from their familiar environment. In this situation, joining classes and groups is crucial. You’ll meet like-minded people who are interested in exchanging ideas and overcoming the challenges of weight loss together.

Get Rid of Your Excess Weight Now 

Weight management programs are highly effective, but only if the patient sticks to the experts’ guidelines and attends their classes regularly. Some of the changes they might need to make include eating healthier foods, exercising regularly, getting a lot of sleep, and planning their meals ahead of time. Get in touch with us at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA to find out more about our weight management programs.

Modern women often have both a job and a family, which means that they are left with very little spare time for themselves. Despite this, regularly visiting Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA and getting a checkup is important. At the Women’s Center, we can address problems specific to female patients. Read on to find out more about the factors that affect women’s health the most.

What Are the Main Factors That Affect Women’s Health?

With modern medicine, we can be healthier and live longer than ever before. Despite this, most people struggle with at least one health issue. Women suffer from general problems like cancer, mental health challenges, and issues related to the natural aging process. Additionally, they have unique challenges related to pregnancy, the menstrual cycle, and menopause.

The best way to prevent serious diseases is to lead a healthy lifestyle and visit the clinic every year or two for a checkup. That way, small problems can be caught early, and the risk of a major condition is lower. Reducing the amount of stress you are under also improve your general health and prevents disease.

Pregnancy

Around 85% of women over the age of 40 have at least one child. For many, pregnancy is a beautiful experience, but it is also very stressful on the body. While you’re pregnant, you might experience symptoms that make it difficult to carry on with your normal routine. After you’ve given birth, most of those will disappear, but your body might still feel different from before.

It’s important to get medical support both during and after your pregnancy. This allows you to remain healthy, which benefits both you and your family. When you come for your postnatal consultations, we’ll speak to you about any painful symptoms you still have, the ideal diet, and what kinds of exercise are appropriate. If you’re breastfeeding, we’ll discuss how much you need to drink and how you can keep yourself healthy during this special period of life.

The Menstrual Cycle 

It is estimated that 14 to 25% of women have menstrual irregularities. Some of the most common problems related to the menstrual cycle are painful cramps, heavy bleeding, and irregular bleeding. Women who experience these issues might have trouble completing their normal routine because they are in pain. Those who bleed heavily often experience dizziness and anemia.

If you’re in pain every time you menstruate, you have to change your sanitary products more frequently than every two hours, or you’re worried about the irregularity of your cycle, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll schedule a Well-Woman exam to figure out whether you need further treatment. Sometimes, home remedies are enough, but at other times, patients need medication.

Menopause 

Most women become menopausal between the ages of 45 and 55. This means that their menstrual cycle stops, and they can no longer have children. Unfortunately, menopause often comes with unpleasant symptoms. Many patients experience hot flashes, night sweats, changes in their mood, fatigue, brain fog, migraines, vaginal dryness, and pain in the vaginal area.

There are several ways of easing these symptoms. Often, doctors suggest lifestyle changes like eating a certain diet, wearing loose clothes, and setting up a cool, quiet sleeping area. However, this isn’t always enough. Some several medications and supplements can support the body throughout menopause. Book a consultation if you’re experiencing severe symptoms.

Mental Health Issues 

Although mental health issues affect both genders, women are two to three times more likely to suffer from common conditions like depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. This might be due to their biological makeup, but it is also a result of the amount of stress placed on many women, especially those who are raising children and working at the same time.

Sometimes, female patients start experiencing depression after having a baby or when they enter menopause. At other times, conditions develop due to adverse life experiences or a chemical imbalance in the brain. If you’re worried about your mental health, reach out straight away. The earlier an issue is addressed, the more successful the treatment.

Lifestyle Factors 

Lifestyle factors like diet and exercise significantly affect women’s health. Patients who eat lots of unprocessed foods that contain vital nutrients, drink plenty of water, and exercise regularly are much less likely to suffer from issues like diabetes, heart disease, or obesity. As a result, they live a longer, healthier life, and they don’t need as much medical care. People who have an unhealthy lifestyle often find it difficult to make the necessary changes.

Start by contacting a nutritionist, dietitian, or personal trainer, who will help you to come up with a plan and motivate you to keep going when it gets tough. You might also benefit from speaking to others in your situation, since peer support has been shown to increase the success rate of lifestyle changes. There are support groups for people looking to improve their health and get rid of damaging habits all over Atlanta.

Cancer

Almost 40% of people will have cancer at some point in their lives. Fortunately, many kinds are now treatable, especially if they are caught early. Breast cancer is by far the most common kind, affecting millions of women around the world each year. Women also frequently suffer from colorectal, lung, uterine, cervical, stomach, and thyroid cancer.

There are several treatments, and the right one depends on what type of cancer the patient has and whether it has spread to other tissues. Tumors can be removed with surgery and treated with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy. If you have cancer, it’s likely that you’ll need specialist care at a hospital or clinic.

The Aging Process

When we become older, our bodies lose some of their natural resilience, and we’re more prone to various diseases. People over the age of 70 are often no longer as mobile as before, so they need to adjust their activity levels and exercise routine. They might also develop issues related to their joints like arthritis, and they no longer recover from illness as quickly as before.

Aging affects the way a patient looks. Most women in their golden years have wrinkles, sun damage on their skin, and thinning hair. While this is normal, it sometimes affects the person’s mental health. Many of the cosmetic changes related to aging can be slowed down through healthy living and certain treatments.

Vision and Dental 

People of all ages have problems with their vision. Not being able to see well affects every aspect of a patient’s life, including their work and their enjoyment of leisure activities. Because problems with your eyes are unlikely to get better on their own, it’s important to visit the clinic as soon as you notice a change. If you can’t see well, you might need glasses or contact lenses, and you’ll be asked to come to the clinic more regularly, so we can monitor the situation.

Even if you brush and floss your teeth every day, you need regular checkups with an experienced dentist and dental hygienist. They take x-rays of your teeth to find cavities, check your gums, and remove harmful plaque from your teeth. Dentists can also check whether you have any orthodontic issues and help you find the right solution.

Do I Need a Well-Woman Exam? 

At Southside Medical, we offer Well-Woman exams to all women who are either over the age of 21 or sexually active. We recommend that you attend a consultation once a year or once every two years to make sure that you don’t develop a serious disease. During the Well-Woman appointment, we’ll start by discussing your health history and current lifestyle.

Some of the topics that might come up include your menstrual cycle, any general health concerns, and family planning options. Next, the doctor will examine your breasts and your pelvis to rule out cancer, cysts, and irregularities. A pap smear test will also be performed. If you have any questions or concerns at any stage of the appointment, speak to the doctor. They’re happy to provide you with the information you need to make healthy choices.

Get Treatment and Advice at the Women’s Center 

Women’s health is affected by a number of factors, including pregnancy, the menstrual cycle, menopause, stress, lifestyle factors, mental health issues, and the natural aging process. Many women also experience cancer at some point in life. Give us a call at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA and book an appointment. We offer general adult medicine as well as services specifically designed for women. 

Almost every child develops a medical condition at some point of their pediatrics age. They might have an infectious disease, a skin condition, bad vision, an allergy, or even a developmental problem. Here at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, we employ doctors who specialize in pediatrics. They can diagnose and treat your child in an age-appropriate way and make sure that small issues don’t spiral out of control.

What Issues Are Treated in Pediatrics?

The vast majority of conditions can be diagnosed and treated by an experienced pediatrician. The first step is to book an appointment with your doctor at least once a year, or more often if your child is less than two years old. This not only allows them to check that there are no issues, but it also helps the pediatrician to monitor your child’s growth and development during pediatrics age.

In between these annual appointments, visit the doctor whenever there is an issue. Don’t hesitate to call if your child is feeling unwell, or they have a problem such as a rash. You can also reach out if you believe that your child’s lifestyle is unhealthy, you think they might have a mental health concern, or you’re worried about their eyesight. We will either diagnose and treat the child at the clinic or refer you to a specialist.

Annual Physicals and Sports Physicals 

When your child is very young, they’ll need to see the pediatrician more often than once a year. Experts recommend that you take your baby to the doctor once a month for the first six months, then once every two months until the child turns one. During the toddler stage, decrease the number of visits to once every three months until your child is two or three years old. After that, an annual checkup should be enough.

Regular physicals are important because they help you to monitor the growth and development of your child, and they allow you to catch conditions early. Your doctor might weigh and measure your child, check that they are acting in an age-appropriate manner, and ask you about your family’s diet and habits. If your child would like to play sports, you might need to book an extra appointment, so the doctor can carry out a sports physical.

Allergy Testing and Treatment

Around 5.6 million American children have food allergies, and many others are allergic to substances such as latex, pollen, and pet hair. Because this issue is so common, most pediatricians can easily recognize, test for, and treat allergies. Don’t hesitate to bring your child to the clinic if they have developed symptoms such as a runny nose, a rash, diarrhea, swollen lips, mouth, or throat, or a cough.

While many of these symptoms can be related to an infectious disease, they can also be the result of an allergy, especially if they don’t subside within a few days or if they recur regularly. Your doctor will test your child for allergies or put them on an elimination diet if they suspect that food is causing the problem. Some kinds of allergies can be dangerous or even life-threatening, so it’s important not to ignore the symptoms.

Treatment for Infectious Diseases 

Unlike most adults, children don’t yet have a strong immune system, and they are therefore more susceptible to infectious diseases. The first time your child gets ill, you might be very worried, especially if they are still small. Call us at Southside Medical Center, and ask to speak to the pediatrics specialist. They will ask you questions about your child’s symptoms to determine whether there is a serious problem.

If your child has only just developed the illness, and they don’t have a very high fever or trouble breathing, your doctor might tell you to stay home and treat them with home remedies, such as cough syrup, child-appropriate painkillers, and plenty of hydration. However, you might need to visit the clinic if your child doesn’t get better, the fever gets worse, or they are struggling to breathe.

Immunizations

Vaccines are extremely effective at preventing serious diseases. Your pediatrician will speak to you about your child’s immunization schedule and explain the CDC’s guidelines. In the early years, patients get vaccinated against Hepatitis B, rotavirus, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and more. Your child can be vaccinated at the clinic, and you can combine this appointment with the regular physical checkup, so you don’t need to come in twice.

Skin Conditions 

Many young children have skin conditions such as rashes, warts, birthmarks, and hives. Older children and teens often suffer from acne on the face, back, and shoulders. Sometimes, these issues go away on their own, but at other times, they need to be treated at the clinic. If your child develops an unusual rash or growth on their skin, book an appointment with your pediatrician. They will either give you medication or refer you to a dermatologist.

Lifestyle Issues 

When you come to the clinic, your doctor might speak to you about your child’s lifestyle and environment to make sure that they are growing up in a healthy way. Some important factors include your child’s sleep schedule, nutrition, and the activities they participate in, and the people they interact with. A healthy environment helps your child to develop their emotional, intellectual, and physical skills, so they grow up to become well-adjusted adults.

Developmental Problems on Pediatrics Age

One of the reasons why you need to take your infant and toddler to the pediatrician so often is to check their development. Although every child is unique, there are certain milestones that indicate whether development is healthy. For example, four-month-old babies might smile on their own, make cooing sounds, hold up their heads without support, and hold toys.

Most one-year-olds can play simple games with adults, pull themselves up to a standing position, drink from a cup, and pick things up with their hands. Your doctor understands each age group’s milestones and can check that your child is reaching the appropriate ones. If not, they might give you advice about how to help them or ask you to see a specialist.

Emotional Issues 

More and more young people are suffering from mental health issues. In fact, one in six children between the ages of five and sixteen suffer from a condition like depression or anxiety. ADHD is another common issue, which affects the patient’s concentration, behavior, and ability to do well in school.

As a parent, it can be hard for you to perceive emotional issues since you see your child every day. However, a good pediatrician, who has built up a relationship with your child, will recognize potential mental health conditions and refer your child to a trusted psychologist.

Optometry 

Good eyesight is crucial for everyone, but especially for children. If they have blurred vision or a lazy eye, they might struggle to reach regular developmental milestones, and they won’t be able to interact normally with their peers. Once they go to school, they’ll have trouble reaching their educational goals.

As you can see, getting your child’s vision problems addressed is crucial. A regular pediatrician might be able to determine whether your child has any vision problems, but it’s unlikely that they can treat this issue. For this reason, we have a special optometry department at Southside Medical Center, where you can take your child for eye tests and treatment.

Does My Child Need To Visit a Pediatrician? 

If you have a good doctor already, you might wonder why your child needs to see someone different. Can’t they see the same medical professionals as you? The answer is that children have very different needs from adults, and a pediatrician has been trained to work with their growing bodies. Although a regular doctor can diagnose most health concerns, they might miss developmental problems, and their care might not be age-appropriate.

Qualified pediatricians have spent at least three years specializing in their field, so they have a lot of experience with children and teens. They know how to speak to young patients at their level and therefore make the doctor’s office visit more pleasant. If you use the same person from birth to age 18, your doctor will get to know your child, and they can build up trust. This makes it much easier for your child to discuss difficult medical problems.

Help Your Child To Get Well and Stay Well 

Keeping your child healthy and well is crucial for their physical, intellectual, and emotional development. By visiting a pediatrician, you make sure that their unique needs are taken care of and that any issues are caught early. Book an appointment with us at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, and ask to speak to a pediatrics specialist. They will perform a comprehensive physical and address your child’s health issues with care and compassion.

At Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, we understand the importance of your eye health for your overall quality of life. As your vision goes, your ability to perform certain tasks, like driving, goes. This can affect your independence. Today, we’re taking a closer look at what you should ask your optometrist, like whether someone who specializes in optometry or ophthalmology is right for you.

What Questions Should You Ask Your Optometrist? 

Is Someone Who Specializes in Optometry or Ophthalmology Right for Me? 

When you schedule your eye exam, you may want to ask whether you could benefit the most from meeting with someone specializing in optometry or ophthalmology. You will only need to see an ophthalmologist if you think you are suffering from an eye disease or you need eye surgery for some other reason. If you need an eye exam to ensure your eyes are still healthy, you should meet with an optometrist.

What Can I Do To Maintain the Health of My Eyes? 

You also may want to ask your optometrist what you can do to keep your eyes healthy. If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, we can advise you on steps you can take at home to slow down the progression of your problem or treat your symptoms conservatively. For example, you may benefit from drinking more water and eating more omega-3 fatty acids if you find your eyes are often dry throughout the day. We can also advise you on effective antihistamines.

Another effective step you can take to maintain the health of your eyes is to not smoke. There is an abundance of evidence that nicotine consumption can result in such eye problems as cataracts, damage to the optic nerve, and age-related macular degeneration. Furthermore, according to the National Eye Institute, the leading cause of blindness in the country is macular degeneration. Mitigate your risk of developing this condition by wearing sunglasses during the day.

What Is Causing My Symptoms? 

You should also consider writing down any eye symptoms you are experiencing in addition to questions you want to ask your optometrist. You can expect to get the most out of your eye exam if you write down what symptoms you’re experiencing, when they occur, and what you do to improve them. For example, we should know if you experience itchiness when you walk past azaleas or rhododendrons and your symptoms improve when you take a fast-acting antihistamine.

As another example, you should take note of eye dryness or sensations of strain that occur after staring at a screen for too long. Also make note of any discomfort you’re experiencing, regardless of whether it is caused by exposure to bright light at night, contact lenses, or something else.

Will You Need To Dilate My Eyes? 

You also may benefit from asking your optometrist if your eyes need to be dilated. Most of the time, we do need to dilate the pupils to get information on your eye health during your eye exam. It’s a good idea to ask this question in advance of your eye exam, so you can arrange for a ride home. You also may want to request the rest of the day off from work if you have to look at a computer monitor or work in a bright environment.

It is a very good idea to arrange for someone to drive you home if your eyes are dilated. If you can’t get a ride after your appointment, make sure you have very dark sunglasses to protect yourself from bright UV light. Also, you may want to wait for a while after your appointment to drive. If you have concerns about your ability to see, play it safe.

Do You Have My Complete Medical History? 

Your medical history plays a significant role in accurately identifying eye problems. Your medical history also plays a significant role in your risk of developing certain eye conditions in the future. Even if you sign all of the necessary release forms for your new eye doctor to receive your complete medical history, they may not have your up-to-date history. Confirm that they have all of the information they need to make accurate diagnoses and risk assessments.

What Tests Will You Be Performing? 

If you do not need to schedule a routine eye exam, you may want to know which tests your optometrist will be performing and why each test is important. If you feel anxious about going to the eye doctor because you’re not sure what to expect, ask us as many questions as you need to in order to put your mind at ease.

How Often Should I Have My Eyes Examined? 

If you’re between 20 and 39 years old and relatively healthy, you should schedule an eye exam twice every decade. Once you reach the age of 40, you should schedule an eye exam every two to four years until you reach the age of 54 if you remain in relatively good health. Between the ages of 55 and 64, assuming you are relatively healthy, you should come in for an eye exam every one to three years.

Once you reach the age of 65, you should have your eyes examined every year or two. If you are not the picture of perfect health, you should strongly consider scheduling eye exams more often. Furthermore, you should schedule more frequent vision tests if you have a family history of eye disease. Moreover, you should schedule an appointment sooner if you are experiencing any eye-related symptoms that are worrying you, like blurry vision or dark spots.

Why Should I Attend Regular Eye Exams? 

It is important to attend regular eye exams because your eye health is a strong indicator of your overall health. For example, if you see dark spots in your vision, you may suffer from hypertension and not know it. As another example, a look at the blood vessels in your eye can identify a number of serious medical conditions besides hypertension, like:

• Diabetes
• Macular degeneration
• Lupus
• High cholesterol
• Glaucoma

The sooner medical conditions are diagnosed, as a general rule, the better the prognosis is. Medical conditions that are discovered when they are in their early stages are more likely to be treated successfully. Furthermore, symptoms tend to not be as bad while medical conditions are still progressing. You may not even know that your body is struggling with an illness.

How Often Should My Kids Have Eye Exams? 

For the most part, your children’s pediatrician will keep an eye out for their eye health during the first 36 months of their lives. They can make sure there aren’t such problems as a lazy eye or crossed eyes. However, you should schedule a comprehensive eye exam for your children by the time they are five or six years old.

You may want to schedule an eye exam with an optometrist when your kids are only four if they have a high risk of developing eye problems. For example, you may want to have your kids’ eyes tested early and often if you or another one of your children has strabismus or amblyopia.

What Usually Happens During an Eye Exam? 

During a comprehensive eye exam, your vision will be tested. You will be asked to read letters off of an eye chart from various distances to determine how clear your vision is from a distance and near an object. We will also test how good your 3D vision is, how far your peripheral vision reaches, and good your perception of color is.

Moreover, you can expect us to evaluate how healthy your eyes are. To do this, we will most likely need to dilate your pupils with special eye drops so we can better check your retinas and other hard-to-see parts of your eyes for glaucoma, cataracts, and other conditions. We will also ask you about all of the drugs and supplements you currently take, your family medical history, and your recent health history.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, now is the time to schedule another one. To prepare for your exam, you may want to write down some questions to ask, like whether someone who specializes in optometry or ophthalmology is right for you. To schedule your eye exam, contact us today at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA. We can’t wait to help you keep your eyes healthy so you can maintain your independence and quality of life.

Substance abuse is a growing problem in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), more than 19 million Americans suffer from a substance use disorder. While some people are able to quit on their own, many find it difficult to break the habit. At Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, we offer integrative, holistic, and personalized care to help our patients overcome addiction.

We use a Lifestyle Enrichment Treatment technique that includes counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and social support. Our goal is to help our patients achieve sobriety and live productive, healthy lives. We urge you to seek help at Southside Medical Center if you are struggling with addiction. We are here to help you on your journey to recovery.

What Happens if Substance Abuse Goes Untreated?

Addiction

The road to addiction begins with experimentation. People try drugs for various reasons: peer pressure, curiosity, boredom, and more. In many cases, people who experiment with drugs don’t go on to develop an addiction. However, some people do become addicted after trying drugs.

There are many factors that can contribute to addiction. For example, people who have mental health disorders or who come from families with a history of addiction are more likely than others to develop an addiction. Additionally, people who start using drugs at a young age are also more likely to become addicted.

Signs of Addiction

There are many signs that can indicate someone is struggling with addiction. For example, they may start using drugs more frequently or in greater quantities than they originally intended. They may also start neglecting their responsibilities at home, work, or school. Additionally, they may begin engaging in risky behaviors, such as driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

People who are addicted may also experience financial problems due to their drug use. For example, they may spend all their money on drugs or steal money to pay for their habit. Additionally, they may lose interest in activities that they used to enjoy and isolate themselves from friends and family members.

Physical Health Decline

Substance abuse takes a toll on the body. The organs are affected, as well as the musculoskeletal system. Common health problems associated with drug abuse include liver damage, lung damage, heart damage, and brain damage. These health problems can lead to other issues such as cancer, strokes, seizures, and even death. Additionally, continued abuse can weaken the immune system, making the person more susceptible to illnesses.

There are several signs of physical decline from drug abuse. These signs include weight loss or gain, change in eating habits, change in sleeping habits, fatigue, tremors, slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and dilated pupils.

Mental Health Decline

In addition to physical health problems, drug abuse can also lead to mental health problems. Depression and anxiety are common mental health problems associated with continued drug abuse. Additionally, drug abuse can worsen existing mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. People who suffer from mental health problems are more likely to turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate.

There are several signs of mental decline to watch out for. These signs include withdrawal from social activities, problem at work or school, and relationship problems. The person may also experience changes in mood, behavior, and appearance.

Violence or Aggressive Behavior

There are a number of reasons why abuse of substances can lead to violence. First and foremost, substances can change the way a person thinks and acts. They can make a person more impulsive and less able to control their emotions.

Additionally, substances can impair a person’s judgment, making them more likely to engage in risky or dangerous behaviors. Finally, people who abuse substances are more likely to be involved in illegal activities, which can increase the likelihood of violence.

Why This Is Such a Serious Issue

Violence is a serious public health problem. Each year, thousands of Americans are injured or killed as a result of violence. This not only takes an emotional toll on those affected by it, but also a financial one.

When drug abuse is thrown into the mix, the problem becomes even more complicated — and even more dangerous. That’s why it’s so crucial to be aware of the link between abuse of substance and violence and to get help if you or someone you know is struggling with either issue.

Social Problems

Each year, drugs and alcohol abuse causes Americans billions of dollars in damages, including healthcare costs, lost productivity, and law enforcement expenses. But the cost of drug abuse goes beyond dollars and cents. It also takes a toll on families, friends, and communities. In fact, drug abuse is linked to a wide range of social problems, including crime, homelessness, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and more. Here’s a closer look at how drug abuse can lead to social problems:

Crime

Statistics show that up to 50% of crimes are committed under the influence of drugs. Substances like alcohol can lower inhibitions and make people more likely to engage in risky or violent behavior. People who abuse substances are also more likely to be victims of crime.

Homelessness

Studies have shown that as many as one-third of people who are homeless have a substance use disorder. This disorder can lead to homelessness in several ways. First, it can make it difficult for people to keep a job and pay their bills. Second, it can lead to financial problems that make it difficult to afford housing.

Domestic Violence

Studies have shown that 40-60% of domestic violence incidents involve alcohol or drug use by one or both parties. Substances like alcohol can make it difficult for people to control their emotions or think clearly about the consequences of their actions.

Child Abuse and Neglect

As many as 65% of child maltreatment cases involve substance abuse by the parent or caregiver. Substances like alcohol and drugs can make it difficult for parents to care for their children properly. The parents and caregivers may be less likely to provide the children with basic needs like food and shelter or supervision and protection from harm. They may also be more likely than non-using parents to physically or sexually abuse their children.

Employment Problems

Substance use can make it difficult for people to show up for work on time or perform their job duties properly when they’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Second, it may cause them to lose their job if they’re caught using drugs at work or if their job performance suffers because of their addiction.

Treatment and Intervention

At Southside Medical Center, we offer a wide range of treatment modalities to manage addiction and drug abuse, including:

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that helps people change their behavior. It is based on the idea that all behavior is learned and that unhealthy behaviors can be replaced with healthy ones. Behavioral therapy has been shown to be effective in treating many different types of addiction, including substance use, gambling, and eating disorders. The goal of behavioral therapy is to help people identify and overcome the underlying causes of their addiction.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one of the most popular types of behavioral therapy for addiction. It helps people identify negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to their addictive behavior. Once these thoughts and beliefs are identified, they can be replaced with more positive ones. This can help people to break free from their addiction and develop a healthier lifestyle.

Counselling

Counselling is a type of therapy that can be used to treat addiction. It can involve one-on-one sessions with a counsellor or group therapy. The goal of counselling is to help people identify the behaviors and thought patterns that contribute to their addiction, and to develop healthier ways of coping with stressors and triggers.

Counselling can also provide support and encouragement as people work to overcome their addiction. In some cases, counselling may be used in conjunction with medication or other types of treatment. For example, people who are addicted to opioids may receive counselling along with medication-assisted treatment.

We’re Here To Help You Get Your Life Back on Track

Left untreated, drug and alcohol use can lead to serious health problems, financial difficulties, and relationship problems. It can also put the person at risk for accidents and legal troubles. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, don’t wait to get help. Contact Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, today to learn more about how we can help you overcome addiction.