Health Matters

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Why is my period not stopping?

Most women expect their period to last between a few days and a week. So, when bleeding continues longer than usual or seems like it won’t stop, it can be frustrating, concerning and disruptive to everyday life. While occasional changes in your menstrual cycle can happen, prolonged or unusually heavy bleeding may be a sign of an underlying gynecologic […]

What is measles and why am I hearing about it so much?

Measles, a disease once thought to be eliminated in the United States, is making a return. The Georgia Department of Public Health has already confirmed 21 cases of the measles in 2026. There were 10 confirmed cases in 2025. That’s why it’s important to know what measles is and how you can prevent contracting it […]

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What is the best treatment for uterine fibroids?

If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, you may be wondering what treatment option is right for you. The answer isn’t always simple. Fibroids are extremely common, affecting up to 80% of women by age 50. While some women never experience symptoms, others may struggle with heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, pain or fertility challenges. Because […]

Is a hysterectomy a major surgery?

If your doctor has recommended a hysterectomy, it’s normal to have questions. One of the most common is: Is a hysterectomy considered major surgery? The short answer is yes. A hysterectomy is a major surgical procedure because it involves removing the uterus. However, advances in minimally invasive techniques have dramatically changed what recovery looks like for many women. […]

Snake Bite First Aid: Dos and Don’ts

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy North Georgia’s beautiful trails, lakes, parks and backyards. It’s also the time of year when snakes are most active. Most snake bites can be treated successfully when you receive prompt medical care. Snakes in Georgia Georgia is home to more than 40 species of snakes. Most are harmless; however, Georgia is […]

Asthma and COPD: Understanding the differences and when to seek specialized care

As an Allergy & Asthma specialist, I frequently evaluate patients with symptoms such as chronic cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. While asthma is often linked to allergies and airway inflammation, these symptoms can also be caused by COPD and other respiratory conditions. Understanding the differences between asthma and COPD is an important first step […]

Could thyroid radiofrequency ablation be the right treatment for my thyroid nodules?

Hearing that you have a thyroid nodule can be unsettling. While most thyroid nodules are benign (noncancerous), they can still cause uncomfortable symptoms or become noticeable enough to affect your confidence. If you have a benign thyroid nodule that’s causing problems, you may not need surgery to find relief. Thyroid radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment that […]

Subvastus approach to knee replacement: what patients should know

When patients come to me to discuss knee replacement, they are often focused on one thing: getting back to living without constant knee pain. Whether that means walking comfortably, traveling, playing with grandchildren, or simply getting through the day without limitations, the goal of knee replacement is the same — relieve pain and restore function. As conversations […]

Do I need surgery for pelvic organ prolapse? Here’s what to know

If you’ve noticed a feeling of pressure in your pelvis, a bulge in your vagina or changes in your bladder habits, you’re not alone. These symptoms may be signs of pelvic organ prolapse, a common condition that affects millions of women. While pelvic organ prolapse can be uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing to discuss, effective treatments […]

PCOS is now PMOS: What the new name means for your care

For many years, we referred to this condition as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). In 2026, an international consensus published in The Lancet recommended changing the name to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) to better reflect what the condition truly is: a complex disorder that affects much more than the ovaries. PMOS is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women. […]

Could endometriosis be causing your pelvic pain?

Painful periods are common, but they shouldn’t be something you simply accept as part of life. If pelvic pain is interfering with work, relationships or daily activities, endometriosis may be the reason. Endometriosis affects more than 10% of women in the United States between the ages of 15 and 44, making it one of the most […]

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): A Comprehensive Guide

What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy? If you’re dealing with joint pain, a sports injury, or a chronic tendon problem, you may have heard about Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. This innovative treatment uses your body’s own healing abilities to help reduce pain and support recovery. PRP therapy has become a popular option for people looking for […]

What is lipoprotein(a) and why is it important for heart health?

Lipoprotein(a) is a type of “bad” cholesterol that circulates in your blood. High levels of lipoprotein(a) can cause plaque buildup and inflammation in the arteries. When your level is high, it can significantly increase your risk of heart attack, stroke or developing cardiovascular disease. Lp(a) is an independent risk factor from LDL cholesterol, which is often called “bad” cholesterol. This means that even if your level of LDL […]

Staying active without pain: understanding and managing shin splints

Whether you’re returning to a training routine, increasing your mileage, or preparing for competition, a dull, aching pain along your shin bone, called a shin splint, is the last thing you need. A shin splint is a dull, aching pain along the shin bone caused by repetitive stress on the bone and surrounding muscles, most often from […]

How do you treat a burn?

Burns are one of the most common household injuries that can range from mild skin irritation to serious medical emergencies. Knowing how to treat a burn properly can help reduce pain, prevent infection, and stimulate faster healing. Here’s what you should know about burn treatment, home care, and when to seek medical attention. How to identify the severity […]

Here Comes the Sun

Safe sun exposure tips Summer in Northeast Georgia brings longer days, warmer temperatures and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. From afternoons by the pool and family vacations to backyard cookouts, gardening and outdoor work, many of us spend significantly more time in the sun during the summer months. While sunlight has its benefits – such as boosting mood and […]

Breaking down the news: What is frontotemporal dementia?

For many people, the recent announcement that Bruce Willis has frontotemporal dementia came with some sadness—and some confusion. What is this specific type of dementia? You’re probably familiar with Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common type of dementia. But dementia is an umbrella term for many different conditions that impact a person’s ability to […]


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