In the Northeastern part of the US, "allergy season" begins in the middle of March, with trees being the first to send pollen into the air. For those of you who traditionally suffer with Spring allergies, now is the time to start using steroid nasal sprays. It is best to suppress inflammation and congestion before … Continue reading Spring Allergy Season is almost here
Category: Uncategorized
Which patients gets what preventive services and when?
There are many organizations that help doctors provide preventive care. The US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) is a group of volunteers who review and simplify recommendations from these organizations. When your doctor suggests a study or treatment, it is often based on the guidelines from the USPSTF. Patients often want to know why certain … Continue reading Which patients gets what preventive services and when?
Over the counter cough and cold medicines
There are many products available to help people get through the seemingly endless string of respiratory infections out there. Trying to figure out which treatment is best is confusing because there are so many different medicines and combinations. While there are many name brand and generics, below is a list of the true chemical names … Continue reading Over the counter cough and cold medicines
Female sexual medicines
Almost everyone has heard of Viagra for male sexual dysfunction, but most people are not aware that female sexual health medicines also exist: Filbanserin (Addyi) - FDA-approved for hypoactive (low) sexual desire disorder. This is not a hormone. It works on neurotransmitters in the brain. It is a daily pill. People who take it need … Continue reading Female sexual medicines
Oral GLP-1 Medicines
The FDA recently approved a pill version of Wegovy. This is the same molecule (Semaglutide) as is found in the injectable forms of Wegovy and Ozempic as well as the Rybelsus pill. Eli Lilly has a similar medicine in the pipeline. All of these medicines work to lower blood sugar and promote weight loss. All … Continue reading Oral GLP-1 Medicines
Why do I have to remember the three words?
If you are over 65, the last time that were in for an annual exam, you probably were asked to remember three words and say them back. You may also have been asked to draw a clock. If you’re under 65, ask a family member. This exercise is the Mini-Cog, which is a very brief … Continue reading Why do I have to remember the three words?
The Vaccine Schedule (according to Dr. Joshua Usen) Part 2
Hepatitis A - Hepatitis A is a viral illness that can infect the liver. Hep A can come from contact with unsafe water, raw sewage and by eating food that has the virus in it. It is very commonly found in other countries, so travelers can be exposed. Hep A is often responsible for the … Continue reading The Vaccine Schedule (according to Dr. Joshua Usen) Part 2
Changes to Medicare Part D Out-of-pocket expenses
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 has brought changes to how much people may have to pay for their prescriptions. Admittedly, it is complicated. Below is a link with information directly from the federal government. 2026 Medicare Part D Out-of-Pocket Cost Changes Key points: There are three phases: Deductible - patient has to pay for … Continue reading Changes to Medicare Part D Out-of-pocket expenses
Colon Cancer Screening
Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the US and worldwide. Up-to-date statistics can be found at the Colon Cancer Alliance webpage. The official recommendations are from the US Preventative Screening Task Force. In general, if you are 45 years or older, you should speak with your doctor about getting screened for … Continue reading Colon Cancer Screening
Fibromyalgia resources
Fibromyalgia is real disease, despite what many people - both within and outside of the medical community believe. It is a complicated condition whose root cause(s) are not known. Those who have it experience pain more intensely and often have poor sleep, chronic tiredness and varying degrees of depression and/or anxiety. I am not an … Continue reading Fibromyalgia resources
DR JOSHUA USEN 