Comprehensive Dermatology Care with Melasma Specialists in Virginia

Are you noticing uneven discoloration patches on your skin? You are probably suffering from melasma. Although harmless, melasma can be quite frustrating and embarrassing. Fortunately, Dr. Patricia O’Connor, MD, of Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center and her team of dermatology specialists’ offer professional diagnosis and treatment of melasma in Glen Allen, Virginia. The practice takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating this stubborn skin problem.  Get started today by calling Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center.

melasma in Glen Allen

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is the condition that leaves colored, dark spots on your skin, especially around your mouth and eyes. Even though it causes no physical harm, it can affect your aesthetics, thus taking a toll on most people’s self-confidence. This condition is prevalent in pregnant women, often referred to as ‘mask of pregnancy’ or chloasma.

What Is the Cause of Melasma?

There is no single or continuous cause of melasma. Particular risk factors make one more likely to develop this condition, such as a darker skin tone, sun exposure, and upsurge in hormones, maybe because of oral contraceptive pills or pregnancy. This condition is more common in women than men, as highlighted by the American Academy of Dermatology.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Melasma?

The spotty discolorations on one’s skin because of melasma are generally darker compared to your usual skin color. These spots are more prevalent around the face, especially on your cheeks, chin, bridges of your nose, and forehead. These spots are often symmetrical, with pattern marks appearing on both sides of your face. Melasma may also develop on your forearms, neck, or other areas on your body that has been exposed to sunlight.

How to Diagnose Melasma?

The dermatology specialists at Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center usually diagnose melasma through a simple visual exam. Your provider may also perform additional tests to rule out any other cause of your hyperpigmentation.

One standard test is the Wood’s lamp examination that involves shining a particular light on your skin. This light allows your doctor to evaluate if you have any fungal or bacterial infections, which may cause your discoloration. This test also enables your provider to determine how many layers of your skin are affected by melasma. If necessary, your specialist may also conduct a biopsy on the discolored area to ensure there is no other underlying condition.

What to Expect with Melasma Treatment?

In some instances, melasma may disappear on its own, mainly if it’s not caused by hormonal changes resulting from pregnancy or contraception. Nevertheless, if your melasma won’t go away by itself, there are alternative treatment options. Your specialist may use a combination of the following: chemical peels, topical steroids, creams to lighten your skin, dermabrasion, and microdermabrasion. To obtain optimal results, all skincare therapies should be used in conjunction with broad-spectrum SPF30+ sunscreen daily.

That said, Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center is a comprehensive cosmetic care center. Dr. O’Connor and her team develop customized treatment plans for all patients. Schedule an appointment with your select dermatology specialist today by calling the office or booking online.

Teeth Whitening Aftercare Guide

Teeth discoloration can be quite embarrassing for you, especially in severe cases. However, the good news is that with teeth whitening, you don’t have to live with the shame. Getting a qualified dentist in Chandler is one step towards reclaiming your set of pearly whites. Chandler teeth whitening specialists will advise you on the best dental practices to adopt.

After the procedure, it is advisable to stick within the recommended foods and drinks to keep your smile looking its best. Otherwise, you may further cause discoloration and more exposure to your teeth dentin layer.

1. What to Avoid

The first week following your teeth whitening procedure play an integral role in the outcome of the treatment. Therefore, you should steer clear from specific foods that can jeopardize the end goals. For instance, coffee, dark chocolate, and even dark sauces are a no-go zone. Acidic foods are also off limits.

After teeth whitening, your enamel weakens. Therefore, when you take acid-rich foods such as oranges and lemons, your mouth pH lowers. Consequently, your teeth become more sensitive and may also tend to become painful.

You should also avoid juices and carbonated drinks like Coke. Smoking is also not recommended, as nicotine can stain your teeth.

Avoid foods with high oil content. They will leave grease on your teeth, giving them an unpleasant stain. Extremely hot or cold foodstuffs may also cause pain with your increased teeth sensitivity.

2. What to Eat

A white diet is highly advisable to maintain the longevity of your teeth whitening procedure. You can also peel fruits and snack on them, like an apple. Most importantly, if you feel the irresistible urge to take a drink that deviates from the white diet, you can drink using a straw. It helps minimize the risk of coming into contact with your teeth, discoloring them in the process.

Furthermore, increase your water and milk consumption. Water can be sparkling or still. Other drinks you can consume include lemonade, non-alcoholic cocktails, and also coconut water. A white diet has a reduced risk of pigmentation on your enamel. Therefore, avoid deep-colored foods at all costs.

A white diet can include bananas, egg white, white yogurt, noodles, peeled potatoes, cauliflower, and rice pudding.

Furthermore, it is also advisable to avoid dark-colored foods hours before your procedure. Such finds can reduce the optimum results you would expect after treatment. Cold items, like your favorite blueberry ice cream, are also not ideal for you after the process.

Here’s a simple life hack to help you after your teeth whitening. Take a white piece of cloth. Pour a portion of the food or drink you want to consume. If it leaves a stain on the cloth, avoid it for the time being.

Most importantly, remember that to enhance the longevity of your results it is essential to continue with proper dental care. When you consume dark foods, always remember to brush your teeth immediately after. However, use white toothpaste and clear colored mouthwash as well.

Varicose Treatment Options For You

Varicose veins condition is an enlargement of veins, mostly affecting the legs and feet. It can be visible or invisible as some people experience the symptoms even without seeing the veins. Although they are disfiguring and painful, they are harmless. However, if not adequately treated, they can hinder circulation and lead to other severe complications such as swollen ankles and open sores.

varicose veins in El Paso

Symptoms of Varicose Vein

Board-certified general surgeon Atur Kasha, DO, leads a team of expertise at Desert West Vein & Surgery Center to eliminate varicose veins in El Paso. Dr. Kasha and the team evaluate your condition’s symptoms to design the most effective treatment option for you. If you have a varicose vein, you may experience the following:

  • Protruding twisted veins
  • Dark purple or blue veins
  • Aching leg pain
  • Bulging, cord-like veins
  • Swelling
  • Heavy legs
  • Skin discoloration
  • Burning, itching, or throbbing
  • Muscle cramping
  • Pain after sitting or standing

Spider veins can be tiny versions of varicose veins as they are similar, only smaller. They are often blue or red and appear close to the skin surface. There are self-care tips such as wearing compression stockings, elevating your legs, or exercises that can help you remedy the varicose vein symptoms. However, you should seek expert attention before trying out any of this.

Varicose Vein Risk Factors

Several factors increase your chances of developing varicose vein and include:

  • The natural aging process puts wear and tear on veins, affecting blood flow and circulation.
  • Gender is also a risk factor for varicose veins as women are more likely to be affected than men. This can be due to many hormonal activities and changes in a woman’s life.
  • Obesity puts added pressure on your veins and can cause varicose vein symptoms.
  • Genetics plays a part in varicose vein development. There is a greater chance to have the complication if other family members were affected too.
  • Some standing or sitting postures may not allow your blood to flow appropriately, posing a threat to the varicose vein.

Treatment Options

Varicose veins can be eliminated to optimize the quality of your life. After diagnosis, a comprehensive approach can be taken through the following varicose vein treatment options.

Radiofrequency Ablation

It involves the use of high radiofrequency waves to target and close the affected veins. The blood is rerouted to nearby healthier veins reducing some of the symptoms. It is an effective procedure as the risks of bruising and bleeding are minimized.

Sclerotherapy

This involves the use of a particular ultra-guided foam solution to make the veins fade away gradually. The solution is injected directly into the affected veins.

VenaSeal™

This involves delivering little amounts of adhesive into the veins through a minimally invasive procedure. The bond closes the veins rerouting the blood into healthier veins.

Lifestyle changes

Several lifestyle changes can be recommended to lower the risks of developing varicose veins and also to control some of the symptoms. For example, losing weight can reduce obesity, and elevating your legs improves blood flow in the veins. Besides, lifestyle changes can be used to complement other options to optimize the results.

Varicose veins may not need treatment for health reasons. However, when the symptoms are of concern, and you experience considerable discomfort, please don’t hesitate to contact the Desert West Vein & Surgery Center team led by Dr. Kasha for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

How to Deal with Back Pain

Most adults in Westfield experience back pain at some point. Even though seeking medical help is important, there are plenty of tips that may help you relieve the pain at home. The following tips may help you manage back pain in Westfield.

1. Maintain Good Sitting Posture

One of the simplest ways to manage back pain is by adopting a good sitting posture. If your job requires you to sit at a desk for a long time, keep your feet firmly placed on the ground. Avoid hunching forward and ensure that your back is supported.

2. Massage

Regular massages may help improve your back pain. It lengthens your muscles and relieves tension. Lower back massage may improve your overall posture hence reducing pain in the future.

3. Heat or Ice Pack

If you have a lower back injury, apply ice within the first 72 hours. The earlier you do it, the better. An ice pack will reduce your pain and swelling. It provides relief by relaxing your tightened muscles. Heat is great as well. Apply it on your lower back if your pain is not caused by acute injuries. Do not apply a heat or ice pack for over 20 minutes at a time as it may damage your skin.

4. Stretch

Stretching your muscles may relieve back pain. It may prevent similar injuries in the future. Stretches are important because your back muscles extend to different directions.

5. Invest In a Good Mattress

Sleeping on a high-quality mattress may improve your back pain. The best mattress for lower back pain is medium-firm. However, your sleeping position may determine the appropriate mattress for you. If you are sleeping on your side, a softer mattress may be more appropriate.

6. Wear the Right Footwear

Wearing the right footwear may improve your general posture and relieve back pain. Wear comfortable shoes that provide stability especially when you need to stand for a long time. Sneakers and boots may be great options. High-heeled shoes and flip flops could make your pain worse as they exert too much pressure on your back.

7. Over-the-Counter Medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers may be good for back pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin are some of the best options. Take them a few days in a row when experiencing pain to reduce your symptoms. Since the medications aren’t safe for everyone, seek the opinion of your doctor before taking them.

8. Maintain a Healthy Weight

If you are overweight, you are likely to be putting excessive strain on your lower back. Your doctor may recommend a diet plan or exercise regime to help you attain a healthy weight.

If your pain does not improve within four weeks of using home remedies, it may be time to see a doctor. You may also need immediate help if you have a history of cancer or you were recently involved in an accident. Excessive back pain may be a symptom of underlying health conditions. Common treatments for pain include physical therapy, surgery, and medication.

Top Reasons Why Prenatal Care is Beneficial for You

When you first saw the positive sign on the test, you became elated. At that instant, you had fantasies of carrying your newborn in your arms, singing sweet lullabies as you fondly cuddled them to sleep. You can’t wait to go for evening drives in San Pedro with your little one. Below are the reasons why you should promptly schedule prenatal care with an OB/GYN in San Pedro with your first discovery of pregnancy.

1. What Prenatal Care Entails

Your doctor will evaluate you to ascertain your health and that of your baby. It includes having a physical examination to check your weight, blood pressure, and related organs like your heart and even your breasts. You will undergo a pelvic exam too. Laboratory tests are also a standard feature. They include a complete blood count, blood and urine analysis to check against any diseases you could have, and a threat during pregnancy.

2. Monitor Baby’s Development 

It is essential to monitor your growing baby’s progress in your tummy. Plus, the doctor can check whether they are marking the expected milestones. If not, they advise you on want to do and accord the best medical care in ensuring everything goes as planned.

Your doctor helps minimize the possibility of your baby’s congenital disabilities at birth and even diseases with proper care. Such defects can include abnormal body features, which can be triggered by an action you should not have done during pregnancy. By following the advice during prenatal care, you rest assure that the chances of having congenital disabilities are down to a minimum in an ideal scenario.

3. Determine Due Date

When you attend prenatal care, your doctor establishes your due date. As a result, you can plan around the day. The good thing is that you get an allowance of a few days before and after the expected due date as a safe timeline on when to plan yourself. Therefore, you can comfortably shop for your baby’s clothes and essential items, take time off work, hire help if needed, and, most importantly, book a clinic appointment for the delivery.

4. Check Your Health

When pregnant, carrying the baby safe until the term ends is essential. Therefore, your doctor can monitor your progress and advice on the best information surrounding your pregnancy. Additionally, they can also check your medical history.

By doing so, they can rule out any pregnancy risk factors that can endanger your life and that of your baby. You can have probable risk factors based on your age and even family lineage. By understanding your history, your doctor will help you stay healthy.

Your doctor also guides you on the right diet to implement, especially during pregnancy. Remember, as your baby grows, your body requires different nutritional needs to remain healthy. Consequently, you get enough energy to sustain yourself and pregnancy until term. Not to forget to provide you the energy you need during birth.

Never assume that it is too early to start your prenatal visits. Remember, a condition discovered in time is easy to manage and protect your health together with your baby. Failure to prioritize prenatal care can result in pregnancy complications that endanger your lives.

Comprehensive Dental Implants Specialists in Virginia

Dental implants are among the latest advancements in dental medicine over the last few years. If you have a missing tooth you may be a good candidate for dental implants. At Gentle Touch Dental PC, Dr. Francisco Rodriguez, DMD, provides the most comfortable and effective dental implants in Falls Church, Virginia. Dr. Rodriguez has years of experience in implant dentistry and utilizes the latest in medical technology. Schedule an appointment with Gentle Touch Dental PC by calling the office or booking online.

dental implants in Falls Church

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial replacements for missing teeth. These implants act and resemble the natural tooth. The dental implants will comprise the following:

  • Root – a screw-like, metal piece that attaches to the jawbone
  • Crown – the noticeable part that’s a complete replica of the tooth
  • Abutment post – links the crown to the root.

What to Expect with Implant Dentistry?

A dental implant is a perfect solution to dentures or bridges for missing teeth. In most cases, dental implants will call for several visits to the dentist. Initially, during surgery, Dr. Rodriguez will attach the artificial root to the patient’s jawbone. As the wound heals, the root bonds with the jawbone correctly.

Once the root has completely bonded (typically takes several months), the provider will request you to come back for a crown fitting. The crown is personalized to resemble your teeth and fit comfortably in your mouth. During the final visit, Dr. Rodriguez will attach the crown to an abutment post. Once the crown is correctly set, you can proceed to brush, speak, and chew normally.

Who Is the Right Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are suitable for most adults. To determine if a dental implant suits you best, request a consultation with the Gentle Touch Dental PC dental specialists. To be an ideal candidate for implant surgery, one must be a nonsmoker, adhere to good hygiene habits, have a healthy jawbone density to hold implants, and not suffer from chronic diseases, such as leukemia and diabetes, as these can impact the healing process.

What Is the Significance of Dental Implants?

Dental implants come with several cosmetic and functional advantages. Patients who choose dental implants can enjoy a conspicuous appearance, lasting teeth, jawbone preservation, materials that are safe to the human body, and reliable and sturdy quality. Contrary to dentures and bridges, dental implants stand out as the restoration alternative, enhancing the underlying jawbone’s health, and aren’t easily noticeable by a third party.

Testimonials & Reviews

Gentle Touch Dental PC appreciates reviews from their valued patients. To date, the facility boasts a 4.94 out of 5-star rating based on 16 collected reviews. To check out what others are saying about the practice, visit their website.

In conclusion, Gentle Touch Dental PC provides comprehensive oral care that meets and exceeds the patient’s goals. For any dental service, ranging from restorative and preventive to emergency care, Dr. Rodriguez and his team are always available. The practice seeks to offer compassionate and integrative care with a gentle touch. To learn more about implant dentistry, visit the website or call Gentle Touch Dental PC to request an appointment.

Comprehensive Cosmetic and Restorative Oral Care in Washington

You might have an irritating tooth which suddenly turns into excruciating pain. Or maybe an acute injury has resulted in one or more missing teeth. These and many other dental issues necessitate emergency dentistry at EZ Dental Clinic located at the heart of Washington. Jasmine Bassali, DDS, and Ilya Miloslavskiy, DDS, provide same-day services to stop excessive bleeding, relieve pain, and maintain your teeth. If you are not certain that your condition needs urgent medical attention, schedule an appointment with the Bellevue emergency dentistry specialists to examine your symptoms.

Bellevue emergency dentistry

Meet The Providers

EZ Dental Clinic is an exceptional general dentistry practice serving Bellevue and the more extensive Washington area. The expert medical team of dentists specializes in dental healthcare and incorporates state-of-the-art medical equipment to develop personalized treatment plans that meet patients’ unique needs.

The team at EZ Dental consist of a prosthodontist, denturist, and general dentist. All these practitioners are highly skilled and experienced in a wide array of dental procedures. Patients can be guaranteed the most comfortable and efficient care while receiving care from some leading providers in this field. In case you have any questions or concerns about EZ Dental Clinic, feel free to reach out to any of the providers.

About Practice

EZ Dental Clinic focuses on preventive, cosmetic, and restorative procedures. The dentist’s highly-trained team provides a wide array of cosmetic and restorative treatments, including dental crowns, implants, dentures, bridges, root canals, and teeth whitening. They also provide preventive procedures, including dental sealants, mouth guard fittings, composite tooth-colored fillings, and regular dental cleanings. By specializing in diversified restorative treatment options, patients can easily select their most suitable procedure.

At EZ Dental Clinic, the medical practitioners offer platelet-rich fibrin treatment, whereby they use the patient’s own platelets to boost the healing procedure following a surgery. This innovative procedure ensures patients have minimal downtime and recover more effectively. Furthermore, they are among the few dental practices to incorporate metal-free zirconia implants and use at-office 3D X-ray and CT scans.

EZ Dental Clinic emphasizes patient education through blog articles that are posted on their webpage. Patients can also download patient forms from the clinic’s website. To find out this and much more about EZ Dental Clinic, get in touch with their providers.

Testimonials & Reviews

EZ Dental Clinic appreciates reviews from their valued patients. To date, the practice boasts a 5 out of 5 stars rating based on 16 collected reviews. To see what other people are saying about the practice, check out testimonials on their website.

To sum up, the providers at EZ Dental Clinic understand how one’s smile affects other aspects of their overall wellness. Patients can benefit from numerous cosmetic and restorative dental procedures at EZ Dental Clinic. The dental specialists offer treatment through tooth screening procedures for hidden symptoms and any health problems associated with your oral health. To determine how this practice can provide you with extensive oral care, get in touch with the Bellevue office by calling the office or use the convenient online booking tool.

Enhance Overall Health and Fitness Through Customized Nutrition and Exercise Regimens

Whether you aim for peak performance, restoring the function of a traumatized joint, or getting into shape, exercising and maintaining proper nutrition is essential. NY FITPROS is an exceptional practice, offering training and programs patients need to achieve optimal health, regardless of their present fitness level. For around 20 years, their medical exercise professionals and personal trainers have helped patients enhance strength, lose weight, build energy, and boost their overall health and fitness using customized nutrition and exercise regimens. Schedule a consultation with New Rochelle Yoga specialists today to learn more about their practice.

New Rochelle Yoga

About Medical Providers

NY FITPROS comprises multi-certified and accredited fitness and health practitioners. The trainers at this facility are not your standard personal trainers; they are all certified medical exercise specialists. Thus, they are skilled in innovative medical-based training and knowledgeable on how exercise can manage or improve symptoms of chronic health issues, like high blood pressure, chronic pain, obesity, diabetes, and arthritis.

The lead providers at NY FITROS are Dr. Lidia Lidagoster and Dr. Zoovia Hamiduddin. All their techniques are evidence-based, meaning patients can be guaranteed of the safest and most effective techniques. Besides, all providers are compassionate and caring. They seek to create the safest and most comfortable environment for patients to relax and unwind. The expert medical team is always available to respond to any questions or queries about the practice.

About Practice

The highly-skilled and experienced coaches and trainers at NY FITPROS only incorporate the best conventional and advanced training techniques and disciplines. Some of the featured medical technology include FIT3D Body Scanner and MYZone heart rate monitor. The comprehensive and unique mind-body approach to personalized patient care is structured first to identify the underlying cause of the patient’s condition. After determining the prevailing condition, these providers take a multidisciplinary approach to patient care that’s developed to guide, motivate, and educate patients on overcoming obstacles and limitations that may hinder them from achieving optimal health and wellness.

The team of professionals at NY FITPROS provides an extensive selection of services. These include strength and conditioning training, healthy lifestyle & performance booster coaching, sports nutrition, and specific training while combining conventional and advanced exercise disciplines. Other services offered include healthy aging, massage therapy, adaptive and conventional yoga, post-clinical chronic pain rehabilitation, rejuvenation and longevity services, stress management, meditation, and mindfulness. To get started on a nutrition and exercise regimen that will lead you towards full potential, schedule a consultation.

In conclusion, the team of medical experts at NY FITPROS has helped thousands of patients lead lives of good overall health and wellness through their customized nutrition and exercise programs. Whether you are struggling with excessive weight, mood disorders, or chronic pain, you can benefit from their services. To access comprehensive health care, which will kickstart your immediate and lasting health and fitness goals, maneuver past any obstacles and limitations, and lead you to full body functionality, get in touch with NY FITPROS by calling the office or use the convenient online scheduling tool.