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Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a viral infection that affects the nose, throat and lungs. The flu affects millions of people each year and is passed from person to person. Young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for infection, and may experience symptoms including high fever, chills and sweats, fatigue, headache, nasal congestion and more.
A flu shot is recommended each year for young children and adults over 50. The shot is proven to be effective in preventing or reducing the severity of the flu virus (influenza). The flu is a viral infection that affects millions of people each year and can lead to serious complications.
Flu shots are generally available between September and November, which is right before the typical winter flu season. Children and older adults are at higher risk for catching the flu virus, but everyone should consider protecting themselves against this unpleasant condition.
A wound involves a break in the skin or tissues caused by accidents, injuries, surgery, radiation or several other causes. A laceration is a certain type of wound with jagged, irregular edges. Wounds and lacerations typically involve bleeding, redness, swelling, pain, tenderness and other symptoms.
Treatment for wounds and lacerations depend on their type and severity. Patients with severe wounds should contact the office for the evaluation of the wound and appropriate medical care. The wound may possibly require antibiotics, corticosteroids or minimally invasive surgery in order to remove contaminated skin or apply a skin graft. Dr. Detweiler will be able to determine the course of treatment.
A nebulizer is a breathing machine used to treat asthma. This treatment involves the use of a mask or ultrasonic machine with a mouthpiece attached, and involves spraying a mist of medication to help loosen mucus in the lungs and relax the airway muscles to promote proper breathing.
Each treatment takes about 15 to 20 minutes to administer and can be performed in the office. Dr. Detweiler will provide you with specific instructions to properly utilize this convenient treatment.
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced to protect the ear from damage and infections. It is produced in the ear canal and normally accumulates and then dries up and falls out of the canal. It rids the ear of dust or sand particles and repels water, which can cause infections. Without ear wax, our ears would be dry, itchy and unprotected.
However, ear wax tends to accumulate in the ear canal for a number of reasons. The ear canal may narrow from an infection, the wax may not be as soft or too much wax may have been produced. If an extreme amount of wax builds up, it may need to be cleaned, or lavaged, by Dr. Detweiler. Ear drops may also be prescribed to soften the wax and allow it to be cleared out.
Immunizations should be part of routine health care for children over 2 years old. Vaccines help prevent infectious diseases and save lives. Vaccination shots use small amounts of killed or weakened microorganisms that cause a disease to build up your system's defense or immunity.
Some of the vaccines recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics include: