The holidays often bring families together for laughter, recipes and traditions. But they also offer something else of lasting value: a chance to talk about your family’s health history. It might not sound like typical dinner-table conversation, but your next holiday gathering could be the perfect time to start [...]
If you’re one of the millions of Americans with type 2 diabetes, you may know that managing this condition means both controlling blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of related complications, such as heart, kidney, nerve and vision problems. “Diabetes management can be challenging, but it shouldn’t be [...]
The vice grip. The temple throb. The pounding hammer. Not all headaches and migraines feel the same, but when one hits, it can be debilitating. Most people are familiar with common triggers like stress, but the following not-so-common triggers could also be culprits, according to CentraState family medicine physician [...]
When your blood work results hit your patient portal, it can look like a confusing mix of numbers, medical terms and abbreviations. To help sort it out, we asked Varun Thapar, MD, a family medicine physician at Atlantic Medical Group Primary Care in Freehold, to break down the most [...]
Falls are the leading cause of injuries among older adults in the U.S., according to the National Council on Aging. And falls can happen to anyone. What’s more, as the weather gets colder and the days get shorter, we tend to become more sedentary, which increases the risk of [...]
Perimenopause isn’t just “menopause lite”—it’s a complex hormonal journey that can come with unexpected twists. But it’s also a time of insight, growth and the opportunity to care for your body in new ways. Farah Benarba, DO, a women’s health expert and OB/GYN at Women’s Health Specialists of CentraState, [...]
Busy days or long gaps between meals can leave you dragging—or reaching for quick snacks that spike your energy and then crash it. But choosing the right mix of complex carbs, lean protein and healthy fats can keep your energy stable, support focus and curb cravings, according to CentraState [...]
While a heart attack doesn’t always look like how it’s portrayed on television, one thing is certain: it’s important to get to the nearest emergency department immediately if you experience symptoms. “Some people have the crushing chest pain that’s often associated with a heart attack, but I always advise [...]
Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis) is one of the primary causes of knee pain and stiffness. It erodes the cushioning cartilage, allowing bones to rub against each other. Age, sex (females are more susceptible), excess body weight, past joint injuries, genetics and repetitive high-impact activities all increase your risk. “It’s [...]
When stress is overwhelming or sleep feels like a distant dream, the 4-7-8 breathing technique is a powerful tool that can help reduce anxiety and promote calm, according to CentraState psychiatrist Ankur Desai, MD. Here’s how this simple exercise works: gently inhale through your nose for 4 seconds, relax [...]
