Thyroid Disease 101: What You Need to Know The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower front of the neck, responsible for regulating your body’s metabolism, energy levels, and temperature. Unfortunately, millions of Americans are diagnosed with thyroid disease each year; it’s a common endocrine disorder that can lead to symptoms ranging from fatigue and weight gain to depression and anxiety. Understanding thyroid disease is the first step to taking control ...
Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, including our bedtime routines. Many people use electronic devices right before bed, whether scrolling through social media, watching TV, or responding to emails, leading to much research into the relationship between technology and sleep. Join us as we explore how technology affects sleep, debunk common myths, and offer practical tips for creating a more restful, tech-free sleep environment. How Technology and Sleep Are Connected Technology ...
Vertigo is common yet unsettling - for some, vertigo is a mild inconvenience, while it can significantly disrupt daily life for others. But how long does vertigo last? Whether you're experiencing brief episodes or ongoing bouts, the duration of vertigo largely depends on the underlying cause and the type of vertigo you have. What Is Vertigo? Vertigo is more than just feeling dizzy—it’s a specific sensation where you or your surroundings seem to ...
As the temperature drops and winter settles in, many people struggle with increased body aches and joint pain. It's a common experience to feel more discomfort during the colder months, and while it may seem like a simple coincidence, there's more to this phenomenon than meets the eye. Why Do My Joints Hurt When It's Cold? When the weather turns cold, the body's response includes constricting nerves and blood vessels in ...
The holiday season is full of fun, but it also brings a fair share of stress and health challenges. Between indulging in holiday meals, traveling, and the colder weather, it's easy for your health to take a backseat. AFC Urgent Care West Springfield is here to ensure you stay in top shape throughout the season. Here are the best ways to keep yourself healthy during the holidays, with the support of AFC Urgent Care ...
Can exercise improve your mood? Regular aerobic activities like jogging, swimming, cycling, walking, and even dancing have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Understanding how exercise impacts both your body and mind can empower you to use physical activity as a tool for better mental well-being. Exercise Can Improve Your Mood When you exercise, your body does more than just burn calories—it also enhances brain function. One key way exercise boosts ...
As November rolls in, we say goodbye to the fall season and prepare for the cooler weather and upcoming holidays filled with tempting treats and festive foods. But November is also notable for another reason—it's American Diabetes Awareness Month, a crucial time to learn more about diabetes, a chronic condition that affects millions across the United States. At AFC Urgent Care West Springfield, we're here to provide helpful information about diabetes—what ...
Is psoriasis itching? Read on to learn more about this skin disease. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition caused by an overactive immune system, which leads to the rapid buildup of skin cells. While itching is one of the most common symptoms of psoriasis, it’s far from the only challenge those with the condition face. Flare-ups, where symptoms worsen significantly, can be triggered by a variety of factors, making it crucial to understand what ...
This year, RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is leading to an increase in breathing problems among children. Similar to the flu, it can trigger severe symptoms, particularly in infants aged 0 to 12 months. Both RSV and the flu are highly contagious, spreading easily from person to person through droplets from sneezing or coughing. This makes it crucial for caregivers to take precautions, including wearing masks. AFC Urgent Care West Springfield has put together a ...
What does a broken ankle look like? Ankle injuries are among the most common musculoskeletal issues, affecting individuals of all ages and activity levels. Whether you take a simple misstep while walking or participating in a more vigorous activity like sports, a twist or fall can lead to a painful ankle injury. However, distinguishing between a sprain and a fracture is crucial for proper treatment and recovery. Understanding the Ankle Structure The ankle is a ...
