Recent Blog Posts

Pain in the Lower Left Side of the Abdomen for Females: What Is it?

September 1, 2023

Pain in the lower left side of the abdomen in females can indicate unique problems related to women’s health. Learn more about what can cause pain and when to seek medical attention. Where is the pain coming from? There are many organs on the left side of the abdomen. When experiencing lower left side pain, it could be coming from one of these organs, according to the Cleveland Clinic: Small intestine Colon Appendix Ovaries ...

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5 Tips and Tricks for a PNW Fall

August 28, 2023

A Simple Blueprint for a Healthier Fall in the Pacific NW: Navigating with Ease  As summer bows out and fall’s splendid hues paint the Pacific Northwest, it’s time to embrace the beauty and prepare for the seasonal shifts. To ensure your well-being remains intact during this transition, here’s a detailed yet simple guide with essential health tips to thrive in the Pacific NW’s fall. 1. Dress Right for Changing Weather The ...

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The Risky Side of Fall Sports

August 15, 2023

High school fall sports provide valuable physical activity and team engagement, but they also bring the possibility of injuries that can impact young athletes. Understanding these risks and taking preventive measures is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable sports experience.  1. Sprains and Strains In sports like soccer, football, and cross-country, sprains (ligament injuries) and strains (muscle/tendon injuries) are common. These can lead to pain, swelling, and limited movement, potentially causing lasting joint ...

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Can the Flu Shot Make You Sick? Why the Stick Can Make You Feel Ick

August 15, 2023

From 2010 to 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated there were 9.4 million to 41 million flu illnesses every year. But there is an easy way to protect yourself — the flu shot. Studies show that the severity of the flu is significantly less if you catch the flu but are vaccinated. The CDC says the flu vaccine reduces the risk of seeing a doctor for the flu by 40% to ...

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Can You Get an STD Without Having Sex?

August 11, 2023

If you have an STD but haven't been sexually active, you may have contracted it through sharing needles, tattoos/piercings, blood transfusions, or other means. Some STDs are asymptomatic but can lead to serious health consequences if left untreated. AFC urgent care clinics offer confidential STD testing and treatment.

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Communicating STI News to a Partner

August 9, 2023

Why Should I Tell My Partner?  First off, notifying a partner about a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) is essential for maintaining trust within the relationship. Honesty and open communication are fundamental to any successful partnership. Sharing this sensitive information demonstrates respect and consideration for one’s partner’s health and well-being. Early disclosure allows for timely medical intervention. Proper diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring are necessary for STIs. Informing one’s partner promptly allows both individuals ...

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Why Get Sports Physicals?

July 28, 2023

Sports physicals are vital to ensure the health and well being of those keen on participating in athletic activities. They are thorough medical exams that are necessary to gauge the physical fitness levels of athletes. In Oregon, the Oregon Schools Activities Association (OSAA) oversees sports physicals. The OSAA also recommends a specific form be used by medical professionals when performing this exam. The form can be found online at https://www.osaa.org/docs/forms ...

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Outdoor Safety in the PNW

July 14, 2023

The Pacific Northwest is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking landscapes, lush forests, and an abundance of recreational activities. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety and health while embarking on these outdoor adventures. Here are some tips to ensure a safe excursion in the Pacific Northwest this summer: 1. Plan and Prepare Before heading out, research the trail or activity you plan to undertake. Be aware of the weather conditions, difficulty level, and ...

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Plenty of Probiotics

July 6, 2023

Foods that contain probiotics have become very popular in the last couple of decades with many Oregonians incorporating them into their diets on a consistent basis – weekly or even daily! Interestingly, even Oregon State University received a grant a few years ago to use probiotics to improve the growth and health of oyster larvae. For those of us who love Pacific NW oysters, that sounds great!. But what do we really know about probiotics for ...

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Hand Foot and Mouth Disease: What It Looks Like for Adults & Kids

July 2, 2023

What does hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) look like? The symptoms can look different for kids and adults. See what the symptoms can be and how to treat them. What is Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease? HFMD is a common viral illness caused by the enterovirus, most commonly the coxsackievirus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the disease primarily affects children under 5, but anyone, including adults, can contract it. It’s typically a mild illness. The disease ...

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