Top Health Concerns for Women

May is recognized as Women’s Health Month – a time to empower women to make their health a priority and maintain a happy, healthy lifestyle. Though most women don’t relish the thought of getting older, they should be prepared for common health concerns that can inevitably come with age, and issues that are unique to women with their reproductive organs.

Let’s celebrate Women’s Health Month by raising awareness of these common health concerns for women by age group. We encourage women to regularly visit a trusted primary care provider for early detection and treatment of these health concerns.

Health Concerns by Age

20s

Women in their 20s don’t have many age-based health concerns, so using this time to be proactive and establish healthy habits can help lessen the likelihood of serious health problems in the future. Here are a few actions to consider:

Regular Well Woman Exams: It’s important for all women, if they have not done so already, to establish care with a trusted primary care provider. Women should visit their primary care provider for a standard PAP smear and pelvic exam to screen for any early indications of cervical cancer or HPV every 2-3 years until age 30, according to HealthyWomen.org.
Sexual Health: As some women become more sexually active in their 20s, health concerns such as STIs and pelvic inflammatory disease can arise and effect their fertility and health in the future, so it is crucial to take preventive measures such as:
- Using condoms during sexual contact.
- Staying up to date with HPV and hepatitis B vaccinations.
Establish Healthy Habits: Practicing healthy habits when young can lessen health risks as women get older. Here are a few habits we recommend getting into:
- Eat and Drink Healthily: Getting the right nutrients can prevent diabetes, boost serotonin, and promote heart health.
- Get Active: Combining exercise with a nutritious diet helps women in their 20s maintain a healthy weight and prevent future health conditions from arising.
- Get Sufficient Sleep: The National Institute of Health recommends 7 to 9 hours of sleep for an adult woman each night. This can prevent short-term health effects like fatigue or depression, and long-term health effects like hypertension or cardiovascular disease.

30s-40s

Women in their 30s and 40s are presented with unique challenges as they go through their potential childbearing years to perimenopause. It is important for women to be aware of these issues and continue to integrate their primary health care and reproductive health care to achieve optimal health and prevent future health concerns.

Women in their 30s often experience health issues typically either related to, or resulting from, pregnancy and/or childbirth. Beginning at age 30, women should also visit their primary care provider for “co-testing” which consists of a standard PAP smear and screening for high-risk types of HPV. After age 30, women should repeat these screenings every 5 years.
As women enter their 40s, hormone levels decrease, and their ovaries start to release fewer eggs in preparation for menopause. This can cause irregular menstrual cycles, hot flashes, infertility, weight gain, trouble sleeping, and vaginal dryness. In turn, women are more vulnerable to other health issues like heart disease, obesity, and chronic pain. This is why it is so important for women to complete age-appropriate health screenings with a trusted primary care provider.

50+

Women ages 50 and older should be aware of their personal risk of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, followed by cancer. These top health concerns can be caused by lifestyle choices or family health history, so it is vital for women to speak with their primary care provider to assess their risk levels for the following:

Heart Disease: The decrease in estrogen levels that comes with menopause lessens the flexibility of blood vessels, causing higher blood pressure that thickens a woman’s artery walls and, in turn, her heart health becomes more at risk. Monitoring a woman’s blood pressure and cholesterol can help identify risk levels.
Breast Cancer: This is the most common type of cancer experienced by women in the United States. Certain factors can increase a woman’s risk for breast cancer such as dense breast tissue or a history of chest wall radiation, but a vast majority of diagnosed women do not have any present risk factors besides their sex and age. The good news is greater than 25% of breast cancer cases are preventable with precautionary measures to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Cervical Cancer: Generally caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) if it does not go away on its own, cervical cancer can be detected when a woman visits her primary care provider or gynecologist for a routine PAP smear which usually continues until age 65. If discovered early on, radiation and surgery are treatment options and proactively taking steps towards future prevention is possible.
Ovarian Cancer: Two thirds of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are older than 55, the contributing factor being that the more ovulations a woman has had, the more her risk potentially increases. While menopause does not directly cause ovarian cancer, women’s chances of developing it do increase with age.
Osteoporosis: Women are 4 times more likely than men to experience osteoporosis according to the 2017 study Gender Disparities in Osteoporosis. Believe it or not, estrogen also strengthens and protects a woman’s bones, so as they reach menopause their bones become rapidly more frail.

Finding a primary care provider who is trusted, value-based, and takes the time to listen to a woman’s overall health is the most important thing you can do to promote a healthier future. Regular visits and age-appropriate health screenings will allow women to take advantage of preventive care opportunities so that they can enjoy long, happy lives as their healthiest selves!

SEE IF DIRECT PRIMARY CARE AT EXEMPLAR CARE IS A FIT FOR YOU! LEARN MORE

CMT: Employer Appreciates Exemplar Care Excellence

“Our team deserves the best, and I feel like Exemplar Care delivers the best.” – Doug Clement, Founder and CEO, Construction Materials Testing

Since its founding in 2001, Des Moines-based Construction Materials Testing (CMT) has been focused on doing things the right way. As one of the premier testing and engineering laboratories for contractors in central Iowa, CMT specializes in an array of concrete, asphalt, soil, steel, and special inspections for large scale projects like interstate reconstruction, levee work, wind farms and even the Iowa Speedway in Newton.

The specialized work requires professionals who are highly skilled and share the company commitment to excellence. To recruit and keep a team filled with high achievers, Founder and CEO Doug Clement goes to great lengths to provide a salary and benefits package that compensates efforts that go above and beyond expectations.

One of the centerpieces of that benefits package is health care coverage at Exemplar Care. CMT was one of the first companies to make an Exemplar Care plan available to its employees.

“I had a meeting with Dr. (Jon) Van Der Veer before Exemplar Care even opened to talk about the concept and how it might be a good fit for CMT,” Doug says. “I was impressed and as soon as they opened, we made it an option for our employees.”

Most of CMT’s staff uses the benefit, which includes Direct Primary Care services along with 24/7 access to Urgent Care.

“As a family, we appreciate the ease of access to the level of care we need,” says Sybil Ferrier, Vice President and Chief Engineer at CMT.

Sybil has worked at CMT for 15 years and began using the Exemplar Care benefit as soon as it was offered.

“A lot of times using urgent care other places can be a hassle. It isn’t at Exemplar Care. We always receive good, quick service.”

Doug says time and again, Exemplar Care has proven to deliver a tremendous value for the company and for his team.

“It is so much more streamlined than a traditional health clinic,” he says of Exemplar Care. “Whether you need to walk-in, set up a video call or just reach out by text or email, someone is there to serve you. And having access to an urgent care around the clock just takes it to another level.”

Brant Payne, a Lab Technician at CMT, agrees.

“It is always thorough,” Brant says of the service delivered at Exemplar Care. “It is more personable too. And I’m always impressed by the range of services they offer. It is outstanding.”

In the near term, Doug is looking forward to Exemplar Care expanding its footprint in the region, giving his team even easier access to the breadth of services.

“I’m happy to see my employees and their families using the benefit,” Doug says. “Exemplar Care has been so good to us. From delivering excellent care to our employees in the office to going the extra mile like they did when they came to us during COVID to provide vaccines and tests, we couldn’t be happier. Our team deserves the best and I feel like Exemplar Care delivers the best.”

Understanding and Managing the Risks of Osteoporosis

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a chronic bone disease that causes bones to decrease in mass and density, becoming frail and easily breakable. It often goes undetected because there are typically not symptoms associated with the early stages of bone loss until a fracture occurs. For this reason, it’s important to visit your primary care provider and discuss the steps you can take to prioritize your bone health and minimize risk factors that could lead to the development of osteoporosis down the road.

Risk Factors

There are some risk factors that are out of your control such as:

Did you know that you typically reach peak bone mass by your 30s?
Early adulthood is when your bones are in their best shape. In your mid 30s is when you typically begin to experience gradual bone loss that happens increasingly more quickly over time, causing your bones to weaken and chances of osteoporosis to increase with age.

Women are at a higher risk for osteoporosis than men for a couple of reasons. First, women’s bones are smaller and not as dense compared to men. Women also experience tremendous bone mass loss after menopause because of lowering estrogen levels, putting older women at the most risk for osteoporosis.

Did you know that your family history can increase your risk of osteoporosis?
Studies have indicated that genetics do have an impact on your risk of osteoporosis. If you have a family history of osteoporosis, you should discuss this with your primary care provider.

There are, however, other risk factors that you do have control over and by being aware of these, you may be able to hinder bone loss. These risk factors include:

Diet: Too much or too little calcium, protein, and/or vitamin D in your diet can lead to bone loss, so make sure you are intaking the right amount for you depending on your sex and age.
Lifestyle choices: Heavy smoking or drinking, not staying active, and eating poorly can contribute to bone loss. Initiating healthy habits from a young age can really improve the strength of your bones in the future!
Exercise: Being inactive decreases bone strength over time. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, to promote bone health and growth, try doing weight-bearing and resistance exercises 3 to 4 days per week.

At Exemplar Care, we understand that preventing and managing osteoporosis requires a long-term commitment to your health and wellness. That’s why we work closely with our patients to help them establish healthy habits and make sure they stick to them over time. Our direct payment model allows our providers to take the time with each of their patients to personalize a care plan to help manage their unique risk factors and avoid developing chronic conditions like osteoporosis.

Take the first step towards optimal health by contacting us to learn more about membership and schedule an appointment.

Learn more about how to improve your bone health from one of our previous blogs!

We are Dedicated to Taking the Time for Your Health that You Deserve

At Exemplar Care, we take pride in providing personalized care to each of our patients.

Here are some of the ways we take the time for you:

We listen: We understand that every person is unique, and we want to understand your individual needs and concerns. Our healthcare providers take the time to listen to you and work with you to create a care plan that fits your needs.

Same Day Appointments

We understand that urgent healthcare needs can arise unexpectedly. That’s why we offer same-day appointments for urgent care needs. We want to make sure that you have access to the care you need when you need it.

Longer Appointments

We offer extended appointments to our members, so that you have the time and attention you need to discuss any health concerns you may have with your provider. We never rush our patients, and we make sure that all of your questions and concerns are addressed.

Compassionate Care

We are committed to providing compassionate care to each of our patients. We believe that quality care should never be rushed, and we take the time to make sure that you feel heard and supported.

Personalized Treatment Plans

We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to healthcare. We work with each of our member patients to create personalized treatment plans that address your unique needs and concerns.

Holistic Approach

We take a holistic approach to healthcare, which means that we look at the whole person, not just your symptoms. We believe that by addressing the root cause of your health concerns, we can help you achieve optimal health and well-being.

At Exemplar Care, we are here to take the time for you. We believe that by working together, we can help you achieve your health goals and feel your best.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference of personalized, compassionate care.

Video Tour with our Founder

Get a Sneak Peek of Direct Primary and Urgent Care Membership

Are you ready to experience healthcare as never before?
At Exemplar Care, we believe that healthcare should be affordable, accessible, and personalized for everyone. That’s why, we offer a direct primary and urgent care membership-based model that puts you in control of your healthcare.

Our founder, Dr. Jon Van Der Veer is here to take you on a tour of our facilities, where you will see and hear more about our membership program. We know that healthcare can be confusing and expensive, which is why we’re committed to transparent pricing. Our affordable, flat-rate pricing model means that you’ll never have to worry about hidden fees or surprise bills relating to your office visit.

But more than that, we believe that healthcare is about more that just treating symptoms. It’s about building relationships, empowering individuals, and creating a healthier community. That’s why we’re passionate about providing personalized, compassionate care that meets your family or employees needs.

We believe that everyone deserves access to high quality healthcare, regardless of their income or insurance status.

So come take a tour with Dr. Jon and see for yourself what sets Exemplar Care apart from other healthcare providers. We’re here to inspire you to help you and your employees take control of your healthcare and live your best life.

Watch the Video >

Are you ready to join the Exemplar Care community and take control of your healthcare?

Sign up for Exemplar Care’s direct primary and urgent care membership today, or contact us to learn more. Join now and experience personalized, affordable Care that meets your unique needs.

Timely Treatment for Sinus Infections

Do you feel like your cold symptoms are lingering longer than usual and you have pain and pressure in your face and your head hurts? It’s possible that you could be dealing with a sinus infection rather than a common cold.

At the first sign of a sinus infection, take action! At Exemplar Care, we understand that you want to get better fast – let us help you determine whether or not you have a sinus infection and recommend the proper treatment so you can start feeling better.

What is a Sinus Infection?

Also know as rhinosinusitis, occur when the sinuses become inflamed and infected due to fluid in the sinuses becoming trapped and allowing germs to grow. The sinuses are located behind the forehead, nose, cheeks, and eyes. Sinus infections can be caused by bacteria viruses, fungi, or allergens. Infections most commonly occur after you’ve had a cold or flare up of allergy symptoms and often persists after other respiratory symptoms are gone.

Acute sinusitis typically lasts for a shorter period of time, usually 1 – 4 weeks. They are caused by bacterial infection following a cold or other respiratory illness and medications are generally effective in stopping the infection.

Chronic sinus infections, on the other hand, can be more severe. They can last for more than 12 weeks or can refer to a recurrence of infections. These can be caused by allergies, nasal polyps, or structural abnormalities in the sinus and you should speak to your primary care provider to determine the best course of treatment.

What are the Symptoms of Sinus Infections?

A sinus infection can include a range of these symptoms:

Pain or pressure in the face, especially around the eyes and forehead
Headache
Stuffy or runny nose (post nasal drip)
Cough
Fatigue or weakness
Fever
Tooth pain
Sore throat

If you have any of these symptoms after having a cold or seasonal allergies, visit Exemplar Care to have our caring medical team evaluate your condition.

Treating Sinus Infections

If it is determined that your infection is caused by bacteria, you may be prescribed antibiotics. These will be prescribed based upon your age and any other allergies that you may have. Your provider will discuss the appropriate treatment with you.

In addition to medication, there are some things that you can do to help relieve the symptoms of a sinus infection. These include:

Using a humidifier or taking a hot shower to help loosen mucus.
Drinking plenty of fluids to help thin mucus. Drink six to eight glasses of water a day and avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they may dehydrate you.
Using a saline nasal spray to hep flush out mucus and relieve congestion.
Applying warm compresses to the face to help relieve pain and pressure.
Get some rest. Your body heals faster when you get some sleep. Keeping your head elevated will help you sleep more easily.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a sinus infection, don’t suffer in silence. Visit Exemplar Care to get the right diagnosis and treatment plan for your needs. Remember, early intervention is key to preventing complications and getting relief from your symptoms.

Take charge of your health and schedule an urgent care appointment today!

Need Info on Another Illness? Learn more about how Exemplar Care can help treat your cold or flu. No matter the illness, we’ve got you covered.

Do You Have a Family History Of Diabetes?

Sound The Alarm About The Prevalence of Diabetes Type 2

American Diabetes Alert Day serves as a reminder to all of us about the importance of knowing our risk for developing diabetes. Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one in three American adults have prediabetes, and most of them are unaware of it. Observed annually on the fourth Tuesday in March by the American Diabetes Association, Diabetes Alert Day is a one-day “wake-up call” that focuses on the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of understanding your risk.

We encourage you to find out if you—or someone you love—are at risk for type 2 diabetes by taking this quick and simple CDC prediabetes test.

Prediabetes can lead to type 2 diabetes if left untreated, but the good news is that it can be reversed or prevented with lifestyle changes.

We have noted the main risk factors for Type 2 diabetes below:

Obesity – Obesity is the number one risk factor for developing Type 2 diabetes.
Genetics – If there is a family history of Type 2 diabetes, your chances increase.
Race and Ethnicity – Being African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, or Asian American can increase your risk.
Pregnancy and gestational diabetes – If you developed gestational diabetes during your pregnancy, you are more at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Age – Although children can develop Type 2 diabetes, those over 45 have the highest risk.
Gender — Men are twice as likely to have undiagnosed diabetes as women.
Other health issues — If you have high blood pressure, your risk doubles.
Sedentary lifestyle — Stay active and you can decrease your risk by 30 percent.

Diabetes Prevention and Management

Direct Primary Care (DPC) is one way to assist with diabetes prevention and management. Direct Primary Care is a healthcare model in which patients pay a monthly or annual fee to have access to primary care services. At Exemplar Care, our primary care providers are able to spend more time with our members, providing personalized care that is tailored to the individual’s needs. This extra time and attention can be especially valuable for patients with prediabetes or diabetes.

One of the most important aspects of diabetes prevention is lifestyle changes. Patients with prediabetes can often reverse the condition by making healthy changes to their diet and increasing physical activity. Exemplar Care primary care providers can work with patients to develop a personalized nutrition plan that is tailored to their individual needs and preferences. They can also provide guidance and support to help patients increase their physical activity and make other lifestyle changes that can reduce their risk of developing diabetes.

Another benefit of the Exemplar Care model is that we are often able to provide more affordable care than traditional insurance-based models. (See plan options). This can be especially important for patients with diabetes, who may require frequent appointments and medications. Our membership allows for unlimited primary and urgent care visits with increased accessibility to providers, making it easier for patients to access the care they need.

If you or someone you love is at risk for diabetes or has been diagnosed with prediabetes or diabetes, consider working with an Exemplar Care provider.

With personalized care and support, our DPC providers can help you manage your diabetes and reduce your risk of complications.

Learn how Exemplar Care actively managed one of our member’s diabetes here: Ken’s Story

On American Diabetes Alert Day, take the time to know your risk for diabetes and consider contacting Exemplar Care to understand how we can assist you to manage this condition.

Finding Calm in the Chaos

Practical Tips and Techniques to Manage Your Worries

Anxiety can be a difficult and overwhelming experience, and it’s not uncommon for many of us to experience it at some point in our lives. Whether you’re feeling anxious about a specific situation or struggling with generalized anxiety, it’s important to understand the negative effects it can have on your life and to take steps to manage it effectively.

One of the most significant effects of anxiety is the way it can disrupt our daily lives. It can make it difficult to concentrate on tasks, affect our sleep patterns, and even cause physical symptoms like headaches or stomach problems. It can also lead to feelings of irritability or restlessness, which can impact our relationships with others.

Fortunately, there are a number of effective ways to manage anxiety.

Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
Challenge negative thoughts by questioning their validity and looking for evidence to the contrary.
Take care of yourself physically by getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise.
Identify triggers that contribute to your anxiety and develop a plan to manage them.
Seek support from loved ones, your primary care provider, or a mental health professional.
Prioritize self-care and make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Set realistic goals and break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Consider limiting exposure to news or social media if it contributes to your anxiety.
Remember to be patient and kind to yourself and celebrate small victories along the way.

At Exemplar Care, our primary care providers assist our members to manage anxiety by:

Offers same day or next day appointments.
Providing 24/7 access to our urgent care.
Providing personalized and comprehensive care that is focused on your specific needs and concerns.
Taking time to work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses both physical and emotional aspects of anxiety.
Offering support and guidance for implementing healthy lifestyle habits, such as exercise and nutrition, which can improve overall well-being and reduce anxiety.
Provide education on relaxation techniques and mindful practices to help manage symptoms of anxiety.
Monitor and adjust medications as needed to optimize treatment outcomes and manage side effects.
Offer referrals to mental health professionals for specialized counselling and therapy when necessary.

Managing anxiety takes time and effort, but with patience, persistence, and support, it’s possible to reduce its negative effects and lead a more fulfilling life.

You deserve to feel calm, confident, and in control, so take the first step today and start to explore the resources available to help you manage your anxiety. Remember to be patient and kind to yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. With the right support and guidance, you can overcome anxiety and live the life you deserve.

If you need assistance managing your anxiety, speak with a provider or mental health professional. It’s quite OK to seek assistance at any time.

Can Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day Boost Your Health?

The Surprising Benefits of Going Green

St. Patrick’s Day is a time to celebrate Irish culture, but did you know that “going green” can also benefit your health? From the luck of the Irish to the nutritional power of green foods, here are some ways that celebrating St. Patrick’s Day can help you stay healthy.

Get Lucky

A positive attitude and good luck may be linked to better health outcomes. One study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people who believe in luck may have better mental health and experience less stress. So, channel your inner leprechaun and embrace the luck of the Irish this St. Patrick’s Day!

Go Green

Green is the color of St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s also the color of some of the healthiest foods you can eat. Green vegetables and fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can promote overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Here are some reasons why you should incorporate more green foods into your diet this St. Patrick’s Day:

Boosts immunity: Green foods are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which are essential for a healthy immune system. For example, a study published in the journal Nutrients found that consuming vitamin C-rich foods, such as leafy vegetables can reduce the risk of respiratory infections and boost immune systems.
Promotes healthy digestion: Green foods are high in fiber, which is important for digestive health. A study published in the World of Gastroenterology found that consuming fiber-rich foods can prevent constipation, improve bowel movements, and reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Lowers inflammation: Green foods contain antioxidants, such as chlorophyll and carotenoids, which can reduce inflammation in the body and prevent chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.
Supports healthy weight management: Green foods are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them an ideal choice for weight management. They can also improve satiety and reduce cravings for unhealthy foods.

Some examples of green foods that you can incorporate into your St Patrick’s Day, also include asparagus, kiwi, avocado, and green tea. By celebrating the health benefits of green foods this St. Patrick’s Day, you can improve your well-being and enjoy the festivities at the same time.

Get Moving

Many St. Patrick’s Day traditions involve physical activity, such as parades, dancing, and games. Physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and improving mental health. So, put on your dancing shoes, or join a parade this St. Patrick’s Day.

Moderation is Key

While celebrating St. Patrick’s Day can be a fun way to socialize and let loose, it’s important to remember to practice moderation. Excessive alcohol consumption can have negative effects on your health, including liver damage, increased risk of cancer, and mental health issues. So, enjoy a drink or two in moderation, and make sure to stay hydrated.

By incorporating these tips into your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, you can improve your overall health and well-being. And if you’re looking for personalized healthcare that puts your needs first, consider direct primary and urgent care. At Exemplar Care, we prioritize accessibility, affordability, and quality so that our members get the care and health education they need without the hassle of traditional healthcare. So, don your green attire, channel your inner leprechaun, and celebrate the luck of the Irish in a healthy way this year – with the peace of mind that comes from having direct care from Exemplar Care at your fingertips.

What do I need to know about tick bites?

Should I be concerned about a tick bite in Iowa?

If you live in Iowa, you know that ticks are a common problem, especially during the summer months. While most tick bites are harmless, some ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, which can cause serious health problems if left untreated. So, it’s essential to know how to handle tick bites and when to seek medical attention.

Tick Bite Prevention

Ticks are tiny parasites that attach to the outside of animals to feed on their blood. The worst ones for humans are deer ticks.

The best way to prevent yourself from ticks is to:

Minimize contact with where ticks live (shady, moist areas with lots of vegetation) – trim your grass, rake up leaves, etc.
Protect exposed skin – wear long pants and long sleeves when going to woody or long grass areas, tuck pants into socks, and use insect repellent.
Check your body for ticks after being outside.

If you are bitten by a tick, it’s important to be aware of the following symptoms:

Rash – A rash is a common symptom of tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme disease. If you notice a rash around the tick bite or elsewhere on your body, seek medical attention immediately.
Flu-like symptoms – Symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and joint pain are common in many tick-borne illnesses. If you experience any of these symptoms after a tick bite, seek medical attention.
Difficulty breathing -If you have difficulty breathing after a tick bite, seek medical attention immediately, as this could be a sign of a severe allergic reaction.
Neurological symptoms – In some cases, tick-borne illnesses can cause neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or facial paralysis. Seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms after a tick bite.

In addition, to these symptoms, if you are unable to remove the tick or if the tick appears to be engorged, seek medical attention immediately. If you have been bitten by a tick, there are several steps you can take to minimize your risk of infection.

Minimize Your Risk of Infection from a Tick Bite

Promptly remove the tick bite – Use fine-tipped tweezers to remove the tick as soon as possible.
Clean the bite – After removing the tick, clean the bite area with soap and water, and rubbing alcohol.
Watch the bite – Keep an eye on the bite site for signs of a rash or other symptoms for up to 30 days.
Seek medical attention – if you experience any symptoms, seek medical assistance right away.

Symptoms for Lyme disease or other tick-borne illnesses are generally treatable if caught early.

Sometimes it’s better to be safe than sorry. So, if you’re not feeling well after a tick bite, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Your health is essential, and there’s no need to take unnecessary risks. Unfortunately, symptoms often don’t appear right away or can be mistaken for something else. Watch for symptoms for 30 days and contact your primary care provider or urgent care if you show any symptoms.

Our providers at Exemplar Care are familiar with and treat tick bites and can provide medication to treat early Lyme disease.

If you have concerns following a tick bite, schedule an appointment at urgent care today.