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Ah, summer—the season of sunshine, beach trips, and outdoor adventures. But for many of us, it also brings along a less enjoyable companion一sinus inflammation. 

If you find yourself battling with summer sinus woes, fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes of sinus inflammation, common symptoms to watch out for, and, most importantly, effective strategies to soothe the inflammation and find relief. 

So, let’s dive in and conquer those summer sinus woes together!

What is sinus inflammation?

Sinus inflammation一also known as sinusitis一refers to the inflammation and swelling of the sinus cavities. 

The sinuses are hollow spaces located in the bones of the face and skull, and they are lined with a thin layer of mucus-producing tissue. Their primary function is to produce mucus, which helps moisturize and filter the air we breathe.

When the sinus cavities become inflamed, it can disrupt the normal flow of mucus and cause a buildup of mucus and fluid. Various factors can trigger this inflammation, including viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or structural abnormalities in the nasal passages.

What are the symptoms of sinus inflammation?

How can you tell if you’re experiencing sinus inflammation? By being aware of the common symptoms, you can identify and address the issue promptly. Let’s take a closer look at the telltale signs of summer sinus woes:

• Nasal congestion

The swelling and inflammation of the sinuses can cause a feeling of nasal stuffiness or blockage, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.

• Facial pain or pressure

Inflamed sinuses can result in discomfort or pain in the areas around the forehead, cheeks, or eyes. The pain may be dull or throbbing and can worsen with bending forward or applying pressure to the face.

• Runny nose or post-nasal drip

Excessive mucus production due to sinus inflammation can lead to a runny nose or a sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat.

• Headache

Sinus inflammation can cause headaches, often felt as a dull ache or pressure in the forehead or around the eyes.

• Reduced sense of smell

Inflammation can affect the nasal passages responsible for the sense of smell, decreasing the ability to detect odors.

• Coughing

Post-nasal drip, where mucus drips down the throat, can trigger coughing, particularly at night or when lying down.

In some cases, sinus inflammation can also result in fatigue, bad breath, dental pain, and ear pressure.

What causes summer sinusitis?

The summer weather plays a significant role in aggravating sinus inflammation. Heat, humidity, and other environmental factors affect the sinuses, causing a plethora of uncomfortable symptoms that can dampen your summer plans. 

For example, high temperatures and humidity can cause the blood vessels in the sinuses to dilate, leading to increased inflammation. The heat can also dry out the nasal passages, making them more prone to irritation and congestion. Let’s explore the other causes of sinus inflammation during the summer:

1. Allergens

Pollen from blooming flowers and trees is a major culprit in summer sinus inflammation. When inhaled, the pollen can trigger an allergic response in sensitive individuals, leading to irritation and inflammation of the sinuses. 

Additionally, increased exposure to other allergens, such as dust mites and mold spores in summer environments, can contribute to sinus problems.

2. Changes in air pressure and temperature

The shifting weather patterns and temperature fluctuations during summer can affect the sinus cavities. For example, sudden changes in air pressure due to traveling or engaging in activities like flying or diving can cause discomfort and inflammation in the sinuses. Similarly, exposure to hot and humid weather can lead to swelling of the sinus linings.

3. Dehydration

In hotter months, we tend to sweat more, increasing the risk of dehydration. When the body lacks adequate hydration, the mucus in the sinuses can become thicker and stickier. This can impair the normal flow of mucus, leading to congestion and inflammation of the sinuses.

4. Air conditioning

While air conditioning provides relief from the heat, it can also contribute to summer sinus problems. Cold, dry air from air conditioning systems can dry the nasal passages, leading to irritation and inflammation. 

Additionally, the sudden transition between hot outdoor temperatures and cold indoor environments can further irritate the sinuses.

5. Outdoor irritants and pollutants

Spending time outdoors during the summer exposes us to various irritants and pollutants that can trigger sinus inflammation.

These include not only pollen but also dust, pollution, and other environmental allergens. Breathing in these substances can irritate the sinus linings and lead to inflammation.

6. Sinus infections

Bacterial or viral infections can also cause summer sinus inflammation. These infections can occur when the sinuses become blocked or when the immune system is weakened. Infections can lead to swelling, pain, and increased mucus production, resulting in sinus inflammation.

If you suspect sinus inflammation, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They can evaluate your symptoms, conduct a thorough examination, and recommend the most suitable course of action to alleviate the inflammation and promote sinus health.

What are the best home remedies for summer sinusitis?

Now that we understand the causes and symptoms, it’s time to tackle the inflammation head-on. Discover a range of practical and natural strategies to help soothe your sinuses and find relief amidst the summer heat:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps moisten the mucus in your sinuses and prevents dehydration, which can exacerbate sinus inflammation.
• Nasal irrigation: Using a saline solution or a neti pot to rinse your nasal passages can help flush out irritants, reduce inflammation, and provide relief.
• Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam can help moisturize your nasal passages, ease congestion, and soothe inflammation. You can use a humidifier, take a hot shower, or place your face over a bowl of hot water with a towel draped over your head.
• Use over-the-counter remedies: Nasal sprays, decongestants, and antihistamines can provide temporary relief from sinus inflammation. However, be sure to follow the instructions and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
• Apply warm compresses: Placing warm compresses over your face can help alleviate facial pain and pressure associated with sinus inflammation.
• Rest and relax: Giving your body enough rest and reducing stress can support your immune system and help reduce inflammation.

What are the treatment options for sinus inflammation?

While home remedies can work wonders, sometimes professional intervention becomes necessary. If your sinusitis persists or worsens despite self-care measures, it may be time to consult a doctor at urgent care near me. 

They can evaluate your symptoms, perform a thorough examination, and recommend appropriate treatments. Here are some available options:

Prescription medications

• Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is present or suspected, healthcare professionals may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the infection and reduce inflammation.
• Corticosteroids: These medications can be prescribed as nasal sprays or oral tablets to help reduce inflammation in the sinuses. They are particularly useful in cases of severe or chronic sinusitis.
• Antihistamines: If allergies contribute to sinus inflammation, antihistamines can help block the effects of histamine and reduce allergic reactions.

Decongestants

• Oral decongestants: These medications help shrink swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages, promoting drainage and relieving congestion. They are usually available over the counter.
• Nasal decongestant sprays: These sprays provide immediate relief by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages. However, they should be used for a limited time to avoid rebound congestion.

Immunotherapy

For individuals with severe allergies contributing to sinus inflammation, allergy shots may be recommended. 

These shots contain small amounts of allergens and help desensitize the immune system over time, reducing the allergic response.

Endoscopic sinus surgery

In cases of chronic sinusitis that do not respond to other treatments, surgical intervention may be necessary. Endoscopic sinus surgery involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the nasal passages to remove obstructions, such as polyps or scar tissue, and improve sinus drainage.

Balloon sinuplasty

This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a small balloon into the sinus passages and inflating it to widen the sinus openings. It can help relieve blockages and improve sinus drainage.

Allergen avoidance

Identifying and avoiding specific allergens that trigger sinus inflammation can be an effective long-term strategy. This may involve staying indoors during high pollen count periods, using air purifiers, and implementing dust mite or mold control measures.

Lifestyle modifications

In some cases, making lifestyle changes can help manage and prevent summer sinus inflammation. These may include quitting smoking, managing stress levels, staying hydrated, and adopting a healthy diet and exercise routine to support overall immune health.

These proactive measures can also minimize the risk of sinus inflammation, allowing you to enjoy a symptom-free summer. 

Where to find the best urgent care facility?

Summer sinus inflammation can be a bothersome condition that affects many individuals during the warmer months. So, if you find that your sinus symptoms persist, worsen, or significantly impact your quality of life, it’s essential to seek a primary care physician in Baytown, TX. 

UrgentCareMDs, your trusted urgent care clinic, is here to provide the expert attention and treatment you need. We provide a comprehensive array of services, including the following:

• Urgent care services for illnesses like colds, flu, throat infections, UTIs, and more.
• Diagnostic and laboratory services
• COVID-19 testing
• STD testing
• Influenza vaccine
• Sports physicals
• Pre-operative screening

And more!

Don’t hesitate to visit us and let our experienced physicians help you find the right solutions for your sinus-related problems. Your journey to sinus relief starts with a simple step – contacting us or visiting our  

• Urgent Care in Baytown or
• Urgent Care in Crosby.

Remember, don’t let sinus woes dampen your spirits—embrace the sunshine and enjoy every moment, sinus inflammation-free!

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.

Heat-related illnesses can be serious and, in some cases, even deadly. Because of this, it’s important to be mindful of potential warning signs and symptoms of heat-related illness and be able to recognize them when they arise. In the United States, an average of 702 heat-related deaths occur each year, and 9,000 people are hospitalized each year due to heat.

With summer weather around the corner, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs and symptoms so you can take appropriate action if needed. This blog post will discuss the warning signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and provide an overview of what actions to take should any of these indications appear.

What is a heat-related illness?

Heat-related illnesses result from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, humidity, or both. When the body is exposed to extreme heat, it works hard to keep itself cool, which can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other heat-related illnesses.

A study from the Environmental Protection Agency shows the number of “heat-related” deaths that occur each year in the fifty states plus the District of Columbia. The orange line illustrates how many deaths list heat as the primary factor behind the death. The blue line represents deaths in which heat is either the primary or a contributing factor between May and September.

Chart from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

It is important to take steps to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in the shade or air-conditioned areas, and wear loose, light-colored clothing to help keep your body temperature regulated. Be aware of warning signs, such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea, that could indicate an oncoming heat-related illness. As these illnesses can be life-threatening if not treated quickly, talk to your urgent care specialist if you have any concerns.

What are the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses?

Heat-related illnesses can range from mild to severe and range anywhere from heat cramps to heat stroke. Knowing the signs and symptoms of each type of heat-related illness is the best way to ensure your and your family’s safety while enjoying the outdoors. 

1. Heat exhaustion

This is the mildest form of heat-related illness and can occur when your body has difficulty regulating its temperature. Symptoms include:

• Muscle cramping
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or fainting
• Excessive sweating
• Vomiting

2. Heat stroke

Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness and can be serious and life-threatening. Symptoms include:

• High body temperature
• Confusion
• Shallow breathing
• Racing heart rate
• Unconsciousness (in some cases)

3. Heat cramps

Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms caused by overexertion in hot, humid temperatures. Drink plenty of fluids and rest in a cool place to avoid heat-related illnesses. Symptoms include:

• Abdominal cramps
• Pain in the calves, arms, and abdomen
• Profusely sweating
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Heavy breathing

4. Heat rash

This is a skin rash often caused by sweat trapping in the skin due to excessive heat, which can be itchy and uncomfortable. Symptoms may include: 

• Prickly or itchy skin
• Dry and scaly skin
• Swollen red or purple bumps
• Rash looks like a cluster of pimples or blisters
• Pus-filled bumps
• Areas of skin that feel hot or burning
• Crusting of the rash area
• Swelling in the area of the rash

5. Heat syncope

This is a condition characterized by feeling light-headed and faint, often as a result of standing for a long period of time in hot temperatures. Individuals may also experience dizziness and even loss of consciousness. Symptoms include:

• Feeling dizzy
• Nausea
• Clammy skin
• Sweating
• Lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Headache

6. Sunburn

Sunburn is caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. To avoid this, apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wear protective clothing, and limit exposure to direct sunlight. Symptoms include: 

• Redness of the skin
• Tenderness and pain in the affected area
• Peeling of the skin after a few days
• Blistering of the skin
• Swelling

Tips for preventing heat-related illnesses

With the right information and strategies, you can prevent these illnesses and stay healthy in the summer heat. Steps you can take to make sure you enjoy a safe summer.

1. Schedule outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, preferably in the morning or evening.
2. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and fatigue in hot weather.
3. Wear light-colored, lightweight clothes to reflect sunlight and prevent overheating.
4. Cover your head with a hat and use sunglasses for eye protection.
5. Hang air curtains in front and back entrances of homes to help keep cool air in and hot air out. 
6. Select shades or shelters with air-conditioning or an electric fan to keep cool.
7. When outside, minimize direct sunlight exposure. Take breaks in the shade whenever possible.
8. Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating to prevent sunburn.
9. Check on others to make sure they are safe in the heat, especially vulnerable populations such as young children, seniors, and people with chronic illnesses.
10. Stay aware of heat warnings in your area and be extra careful during heat waves.
11. Keep emergency contact phone numbers handy, just in case you ever suffer from heat-related illness.
12. If you experience lightheadedness, dizziness, or difficulty breathing after being in the heat for too long, consult a doctor.

Get immediate medical care at Urgencare MDs

Stay safe this summer and recognize the warning signs of heat-related illnesses before they become life-threatening. With summer in full swing, it’s essential to be aware of the signs of heat illness. If you experience any of the following symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek urgent care from Urgencare MDs, a trusted clinic for acute illnesses or medical needs.

At Urgencare MDs, we specialize in managing and treating heat-related illnesses quickly and effectively. Be sure to come to a pristine, clean, and safe clinic for proper treatment that you can depend on. Don’t let a heat-related illness ruin your summer season. Contact Urgencare MDs today to get prompt relief and proper treatment.

You can also visit one of our clinics near you: 

• Urgent care in Baytown
• Urgent care in Crosby
• Primary care in Physician Baytown, TX

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The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.

Exploring the Availability of Allergy Testing, Evaluation, and Treatment Options

Have you ever wondered why your eyes itch or your throat feels scratchy when exposed to certain substances? What you are experiencing, together with millions of people worldwide, is an allergic reaction.

Allergies can be a perplexing and uncomfortable experience for many, but understanding the causes and available treatment options can provide much-needed relief and improve your quality of life.

In this article, we will explore the different types of allergies and their symptoms. But more importantly, we will explore the various treatment options available to manage this condition.

What are allergies?

Allergies are your body’s way of reacting to substances in the environment that it perceives as harmful. These substances, known as allergens, trigger a cascade of immune responses, resulting in a wide range of symptoms that can vary from mild to severe. Common symptoms of allergies include:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Itchy throat or ears
• Coughing
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Skin rashes or hives
• Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• Fatigue or lethargy
• Headache or sinus pressure
• Stomach pain or diarrhea

It’s important to note that the symptoms can vary depending on the type of allergen and individual response. 

What are the different types of allergies?

There are various types of allergies that individuals can experience. Some common types include:

1. Respiratory allergies

These allergies affect the respiratory system and are often triggered by airborne allergens. They include:

• Allergic rhinitis: Allergic reactions to substances such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold spores causing symptoms like sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itching, and nasal congestion.
• Asthma: Allergic asthma is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways in response to allergens, leading to wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.
• Seasonal allergies or hay fever: These are allergic reactions that occur during specific times of the year when certain plants release pollen into the air. These allergies are typically triggered by the immune system’s response to pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds.

2. Food allergies

Food allergies develop when the body’s immune system responds to particular proteins found in foods, such as peanuts, shellfish, tree nuts, fish, eggs, milk, wheat, and soy.

3. Skin allergies

These allergies manifest as skin reactions in response to allergens. Common types include:

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema): A chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
• Contact dermatitis: Allergic reactions resulting from contact with substances like latex, certain metals (e.g., nickel), cosmetics, or certain plants (e.g., poison ivy).
• Insect sting allergies: Some individuals can develop severe allergic reactions to insect stings. Common culprits include bees, wasps, hornets, and fire ants.

4. Drug allergies

Some forms of medications, such as penicillin, NSAIDs, and chemotherapeutic drugs, can trigger allergic reactions in certain, high-risk individuals.

5. Other allergies

• Allergic conjunctivitis: Allergic reactions affecting the eyes, causing redness, itching, and watering.
• Allergic reactions to latex: Allergies triggered by latex products, such as gloves, balloons, or condoms.
• Allergies to dust mites: Reactions to tiny organisms commonly found in household dust, leading to allergy symptoms.

Each individual may experience multiple allergies simultaneously. So, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or allergist for accurate diagnosis, proper management, and effective treatment of allergies.

What is allergy testing?

Allergy testing is a diagnostic procedure used to identify specific allergens that trigger allergic reactions in individuals. It is performed to determine the underlying cause of allergy symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan. There are two main types of allergy testing: skin tests and blood tests.

Skin tests

Skin tests are the most common method used to diagnose allergies. They involve applying small amounts of suspected allergens to the skin, usually on the forearm or back, and observing the skin’s reaction. The two primary types of skin tests are:

• Skin prick test

A small drop of allergen extract is placed on the skin, and a tiny needle or lancet is used to prick or scratch the surface, allowing the allergen to enter the skin. A small raised bump called a wheal will appear at the site if a person is allergic to the specific allergen.

• Intradermal test

This test involves injecting a small amount of allergen extract just beneath the skin surface using a fine needle. Intradermal tests are more sensitive than skin prick tests and are typically performed when skin prick tests yield inconclusive results.

Blood tests

Blood tests, also known as serology tests, measure the levels of specific antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the blood. 

These tests are beneficial when skin testing is not feasible or inconclusive. The two common blood tests for allergies are:

• Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)

ELISA is a laboratory-based test used to detect and measure the levels of allergen-specific IgE antibodies in the blood. It is a common method used to identify specific allergens that may be causing allergic reactions in individuals.

This specific testing provides quantitative results, allowing healthcare professionals to assess the level of sensitivity to specific allergens and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

• Radioallergosorbent test (RAST)

RAST is a similar test to ELISA but uses radioisotopes to detect allergen-specific IgE antibodies. It is less commonly used today compared to ELISA.

Both skin tests and blood tests are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, it’s important to note that the testing process may cause mild discomfort or temporary itching at the test site. 

Allergy testing is typically performed by allergists or immunologists. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine which testing method is most appropriate based on individual circumstances and symptoms. 

What happens after an allergy test?

After undergoing allergy testing, the results must be evaluated and interpreted by a healthcare professional, typically an allergist or immunologist. These specialists have the expertise to analyze the test findings in the context of an individual’s medical history, symptoms, and potential exposures to allergens.

Allergy test results provide crucial information about the specific allergens to which an individual is sensitized. Positive results indicate the presence of allergen-specific IgE antibodies or a skin reaction to a particular allergen. 

These findings help identify the specific substances that trigger allergic reactions in an individual, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or specific food items.

By combining the results of allergy testing with a comprehensive evaluation, healthcare professionals can provide accurate diagnoses, personalized treatment plans, and long-term management strategies. This holistic approach maximizes the effectiveness of allergy management and helps individuals lead healthier, symptom-free lives.

What are the benefits of allergy testing in an urgent care facility?

Many urgent care clinics offer allergy testing services as part of their comprehensive healthcare offerings. Getting allergy testing done in an urgent care setting provides several benefits, such as:

• Convenience and accessibility
• Prompt evaluation and diagnosis
• Immediate treatment options
• Cost-effective yet quality testing and services
• Referral to specialized allergy clinics

While urgent care centers can provide initial evaluation and testing, they may still refer patients to allergists or specialized allergy clinics for further management. This is especially true in complex cases or for long-term allergy treatment plans. 

Collaborating with primary care providers and specialists ensures comprehensive and ongoing care for individuals with allergies.

What are the different allergy treatment options in urgent care?

After allergy testing evaluation, your urgent care provider can create a comprehensive treatment plan to manage your symptoms and prevent future bouts of allergic reactions. Treatment plans may include a combination of the following options:

Allergy medication prescriptions

Urgent care clinics can prescribe various allergy medications to alleviate symptoms and manage allergic reactions. These medications may include:

• Antihistamines

These drugs block the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions. They can help relieve itching, sneezing, runny nose, and other allergy symptoms.

• Decongestants

Decongestant medications help reduce nasal congestion and sinus pressure caused by allergies. They work by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages.

• Nasal steroids

Nasal steroid sprays help reduce inflammation and relieve nasal congestion, sneezing, and itching. They are often used for allergic rhinitis and can be particularly effective for seasonal allergies.

• Eye drops

Eye drops containing antihistamines or mast cell stabilizers can provide relief from itchy, red, and watery eyes caused by allergies.

• Epinephrine autoinjectors

For individuals with severe allergies or a history of anaphylaxis, urgent care centers may provide prescriptions for epinephrine autoinjectors (e.g., EpiPen). These devices deliver a dose of epinephrine, a life-saving medication that can quickly reverse severe allergic reactions.

Immunotherapy options

While urgent care clinics may not offer long-term immunotherapy treatments like allergy shots, they can provide information and referrals for further evaluation by allergists. Allergy shots, or subcutaneous immunotherapy, involve regular injections of small amounts of allergens over time, gradually desensitizing the immune system and reducing allergic reactions. 

Non-pharmacological approaches

In addition to medication-based treatments, urgent care centers may recommend non-pharmacological approaches to manage allergies, including:

• Allergen avoidance

Education and guidance on avoiding specific allergens can be provided, such as minimizing exposure to pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold.

• Environmental control measures

Recommendations for reducing allergens in the home environment include using allergen-proof bedding, regular cleaning, and proper ventilation.

• Symptom management techniques

Urgent care professionals can offer advice on symptom management strategies, such as nasal saline rinses to alleviate nasal congestion or cool compresses for itchy eyes.

• Patient education

Providing information about allergies, triggers, and self-care measures empowers individuals to better understand and manage their condition.

Comprehensive allergy evaluation and treatment at UrgentCareMDs

Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals at UrgentCareMDs is equipped to provide comprehensive allergy services, including skin prick tests and blood tests, to identify your specific allergens. 

With flexible hours and convenient locations, we offer prompt evaluation and accurate diagnosis, enabling personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs. 

Whether you require allergy medication prescriptions, immunotherapy options, or non-pharmacological approaches, our experts are here to provide effective relief and help you regain control over your allergies. 

Trust UrgentCareMDs for accessible and compassionate allergy care. Contact us now at or visit our locations:

• Baytown urgent care
• Crosby urgent care
• Primary care in Baytown

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.