A new FDA-approved alternative, introduced in mid-2024, offers a more comfortable option. Instead of a traditional pelvic exam, women can now use a self-swab test in their doctor’s office to collect a sample themselves, no stirrups or speculum required. The collected sample is then tested for human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus responsible for more than 95% of cervical cancer cases.
Read MoreYou might feel perfectly healthy, but that doesn’t mean you should skip your annual doctor’s visit. These yearly checkups are more than just routine—they’re an opportunity for your provider to offer personalized advice, recommend screenings, run essential lab tests, update your immunizations, and help you stay ahead of potential health issues.
Read MoreGut inflammation happens when the lining of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract becomes irritated or damaged, often setting off an immune response. Left unchecked, this can impact everything from your digestion to your mood and energy levels.
Read MoreMental health impacts everyone, whether directly or indirectly, and it’s important that we create an environment where open conversations about mental well-being are welcomed, respected, and encouraged.
Read MoreDigestive conditions can range from mildly irritating to life-altering, and many of them come with a host of symptoms that disrupt daily life. These include everything from abdominal pain and bloating to nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. One key symptom that often flies under the radar? Weight loss.
Read MoreBy creating intentional moments throughout your day to pause, breathe, and re-center, you can reduce the negative impact of stress, protect your mental health, and make space for more meaningful, energized, and joyful experiences.
Read MoreAs medical providers worked to reduce exposure risks, elective procedures were postponed, and in-person doctor visits became less accessible. But even as the world adjusts to a new normal, one innovation has proven to be a game-changer in healthcare: Telehealth.
Read MoreWhen choosing a physician, does gender make a difference? Studies suggest that patients—regardless of gender—tend to have better health outcomes under the care of female doctors. However, the gender of both the doctor and the patient can shape their interactions and overall results.
Read MoreEndoscopies are commonly used to diagnose, monitor, and treat conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, Crohn’s disease, and gastrointestinal bleeding. They can also be used to collect tissue samples for biopsy or remove abnormal growths. Since the procedure is minimally invasive, it is an effective diagnostic tool that reduces recovery time and discomfort for patients.
Read MoreWhile IBS is primarily a digestive disorder, it can also lead to back pain due to the interconnected nature of the body's nervous system.
Read MoreWegovy contains a higher dose of semaglutide than Ozempic, a medication commonly used to regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Read MoreColon cancer is one of the most common cancers in both men and women, with the risk increasing significantly after age 50.
Read MoreHeartburn, a common symptom of acid reflux, is usually just an annoyance. But when it persists despite medication and lifestyle changes, it could signal something far more serious—esophageal cancer.
Read MoreSymptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation often disrupt productivity and create challenges in the workplace. By recognizing the prevalence of IBS and its implications, employers and employees can foster a supportive environment that accommodates diverse needs and improves overall workplace well-being.
Read MoreHuman papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). According to the National Cancer Institute, nearly all sexually active individuals will contract HPV within months to a few years of becoming sexually active. Regardless of gender, sex, or sexual orientation, anyone who is sexually active is at risk for HPV.
Read MoreWhile often uncomfortable, hemorrhoids generally pose minimal serious health risks and are treatable with a range of effective medical options.
Read MoreAt Bowie Internal Medicine, we are dedicated to offering premier screening solutions to empower individuals in their journey to better colorectal health. Our team provides expert guidance on the differences and benefits of traditional colonoscopies and at-home stool tests, ensuring you make the best choices based on your health history and risk factors.
Read MoreIf you’ve been feeling especially down lately, you’re in good company. Millions of Americans experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that typically begins in the fall when days grow shorter and sunlight decreases.
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