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Influenza(Flu) Vaccine The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year. North Atlanta Family Practice is now holding its seasonal vaccination campaign for established and new patients. The cost of vaccination for adults and children is $30. |
Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles. No matter what kind of diabetes you have, it affects many parts of your life. You can get help from health professionals trained to manage diabetes according to the latest guidelines. |
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Sore Throat Most sore throats are caused by viruses and are part of a cold. About 10% of sore throats are caused by strep bacteria. Tonsillitis (temporary swelling and redness of the tonsils) usually occurs with any throat infection, viral or bacterial. Swollen tonsils do not have any special meaning. Children with a postnasal drip from draining sinuses often have a sore throat from the secretions or from clearing their throat often. |
High Blood Pressure Each time your heart beats, it pumps oxygen-rich blood through the blood vessels, or arteries, that run through your body. Blood pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because you can have it for years without knowing it. The only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to have your blood pressure measured. |
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Ear Infection A middle ear infection (acute otitis media) typically occurs a week or two after your child has an upper respiratory tract infection, which can cause inflammation and fluid to build up behind his ear drum. This fluid can then become infected with bacteria and your child will likely develop ear pain, fever and irritability and he may be tugging at his ears. |
High Blood Cholestrol Your blood cholesterol level has a lot to do with your chances of getting heart disease. High blood cholesterol is one of the major risk factors for heart disease. A risk factor is a condition that increases your chance of getting a disease. In fact, the higher your blood cholesterol level, the greater your risk for developing heart disease or having a heart attack. |