Why am I not always treated with antibiotics when I come in with a cold? The appropriate use of antibiotics are to treat bacterial infections. Most people who come in with a cold are suffering from a viral illnesses. Misuse of antibiotics can lead to unneccessary side effects, allergic reactions, and emergence of resistant strains of infections. This would make it more difficult to treat true bacterial infections because our common antibiotics would not work. We are already seeing this trend today. The decision to use or not use antibiotics should be decided together with your provider.
I'm worried about breast cancer, when do I need to get a mammogram? According to the American Cancer Society women 40 and over should have yearly mammograms and a clinical breast exam by your provider. Women who are 20-39 should have a clinical breast exam every 3 years. Women 20 and up should be doing monthly self breast exams. Women should have their breasts checked at any time there is a question of a problem. Please call our office any time to schedule a breast exam and/or complete physical/gynecological exam.
What does the blood test for prostate cancer tell me? There is a blood test your provider may do for you to screen for prostate cancer. This is called the prostate specific antigen or PSA. This is not a specific test for cancer but a screening, which means an elevated or high number may indicate a problem with the prostate but does not diagnose prostate cancer. This test along with a digital rectal exam from your provider helps to determine your risk for prostate cancer.
