Exploring the Pros and Cons of Flu Shots

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It’s time for the flu to begin making its rounds again with many people scrambling to get their updated dose of the flu vaccine. If you ask around, you’ll find that individual opinions vary on when and if to get the flu shot, however medical professionals advise everyone six months and older, with rare exceptions, should get the seasonal flu vaccine each year.

Pros of Getting a Flu Shot

1. Reduces Your Risk of Getting Sick

The flu shot helps prevent you from getting the flu. It’s updated every year to match the latest and most common flu strains. When it’s a good match, it can lower your risk of getting sick by 40% to 60%.

2. Makes the Flu Less Severe

Even if you get the flu after your shot, your symptoms are usually much milder. The vaccine can help keep you out of the hospital and lower your chance of serious problems.

3. Protects the People Around You

Getting vaccinated protects people who can’t get the shot themselves, like babies under 6 months or people with weak immune systems. When you’re protected, you’re less likely to pass the flu to them.

4. Helps People with Health Conditions

People with chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, or asthma are at higher risk for flu complications. The flu shot can help prevent a small illness from becoming a major health problem.

5. Protects Pregnant Women and Their Babies

Pregnant women who get a flu shot pass some of that protection to their baby, keeping them safe for several months after birth.

6. Eases the Load on Our Healthcare System

Each flu shot helps lower the number of people going to urgent care or the hospital. This frees up space and resources for other patients.

7. Flu Shots are Made for All Ages

  • Kids six months and older should get a flu shot.
  • Children under eight getting the flu shot for the first time need two doses, four weeks apart.
  • Adults 65 and older can get a high-dose flu shot designed to give extra protection.

Cons of Getting a Flu Shot

While the flu shot is safe for most people, there are a few things to consider:

1. Mild Side Effects

Many people feel tired and/or sore afyer receiceing their flu vaccination but symptoms usually go away in a day or two. Other side effects may include:

  • Redness or swelling at the shot site
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Low-grade fever
  • Nausea

2. It’s Not Always a Perfect Match

Flu viruses change every year. Sometimes, the shot doesn’t match the main flu strains very well. Even then, it can still make your illness less serious if you get sick.

3. Protection Fades Over Time

The flu vaccine only lasts for one season. That’s why you need a new shot every year.

4. Very Rare Serious Reactions

Serious reactions like an allergic response or Guillain-Barré Syndrome are extremely rare. In fact, your risk of these issues is higher from becoming infected by the flu itself than from the vaccine.

5. Feeling “Off” for a Day

Some people feel tired or a little sick after the shot. This is your immune system doing its job. You can’t catch the flu from the vaccine.

Final Thoughts

Almost everyone over six months old should get a flu shot every year. If you have egg allergies, talk to your doctor—there are egg-free options. The only people who should not get the vaccine are infants under six months or those who have had a severe allergic reaction to the flu shot or its ingredients.

The flu shot is safe, fast, and a smart way to protect yourself and others. With flu cases rising, getting vaccinated helps you stay healthy and avoid serious problems.

Ready to Schedule Your Flu Shot?

To schedule your flu shot, simply request an appointment with your NOAH provider or call 480-882-4545. Let’s fight the flu together—one shot at a time.

When in Doubt, Sit Them Out

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A Guide to Concussions in Kids and Teens

Concussions are very common injuries, especially in young athletes. In fact, the CDC reports 7 out of 10 visits to the emergency department for sports and recreation-related brain injuries are among children ages 17 and under. It’s important for parents, coaches, and players to know the signs of a concussion and how to respond.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head; or a hit to the body that makes the head move quickly. This sudden movement can hurt the brain. Usually, concussions aren’t life-threatening but repeated injuries or lack of healing can lead to severe complications and increase the risk of developing serious health conditions.

Signs of a Concussion

Even a light hit to the head can be serious so it’s important to remove the athlete from play immediately after any type of blunt contact. Since symptoms can take a few days to appear, experts advise athletes sit out for at least 72 hours. Symptoms of a concussion can include:

Physical

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Blurry vision
  • Balance problems
  • Sensitivity to light or noise

Thinking

  • Trouble concentrating or remembering
  • Feeling slow or confused

Emotional

  • Irritability
  • Sadness
  • Anxiety or nervousness

Sleep

  • Sleeping more or less than usual
  • Trouble falling asleep
  • Daytime drowsiness

If there are no symptoms within the first 72 hours of the incident, it’s generally safe to resume normal activity. If you’re unsure, schedule an appointment with your NOAH provider.

How to Treat a Concussion

If you suspect a concussion, especially when severe symptoms are present, seek emergency care immediately. A doctor will do a physical exam, ask questions, and check symptoms. Imaging is usually not needed, but your provider may recommend a CT scan or MRI to rule out serious complications like bleeding in or around the brain. The doctor will give a recovery plan and let you know when your child can return to activity.

Step 1: Brain Rest

The first part of the plan is to rest the brain from activities that require concentration and focus. This includes limiting schoolwork and testing, restricting the use of electronics including video games, TV, cell phone use, and computers. Brain cells need to time repair themselves. Time helps the healing process, and the effects of the concussion should lessen as symptoms decrease and become more tolerable.

Step 2: Physical Rest

The second part of the plan is physical rest. Once an athlete can tolerate school and is without symptoms at rest, they can slowly return to physical activity. Initially start with some light activity, progressing to sport-specific exercises without head impact or contact, non-contact training drills with some light resistance training, and finally after medical clearance full contact practice. Each step should take at least 24 hours and if at any time symptoms worsen or return, they must return to the previous step.

Injury Prevention

To minimize the risk of concussions or other sports-related injuries, athletes should always use recommended helmets and safety gear. Check with your school or sports organization to verify equipment fits properly, is appropriate for the sport, and certified in good condition. For more information about concussions, talk with your NOAH provider or visit the CDC’s Heads Up resources page on their website. By recognizing the signs, responding quickly, and prioritizing recovery, we can help protect young athletes—because when it comes to concussions, playing it safe is always the smartest move.

Breast Cancer Screenings: What You Need to Know

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At NOAH, your health is our top priority, and navigating breast cancer screenings can feel overwhelming. If you’re uncertain about when to start, how often to screen, or the process of scheduling a mammogram, our team is here to help.

Who Should Get Screened?

Breast cancer screening is recommended for all women who do not have symptoms and have never had breast cancer. Screening is most beneficial for women at average risk of developing breast cancer.

What Does Breast Cancer Screening Look Like?

Breast cancer screening involves mammography, a low-dose X-ray that helps detect early signs of breast cancer, even before symptoms appear. During a mammogram, your breasts are compressed between two firm surfaces to spread out the breast tissue, allowing for a clearer image. The test is generally painless and only takes a few moments, with some mild discomfort from the pressure or squeezing sensation.

After images are made of both breasts, you may be asked to wait while your care team checks the quality of the images. The entire process usually takes less than 30 minutes.

Mammograms are one of the most effective tools for early detection. While a positive result doesn’t confirm cancer, further testing will help determine next steps.

Where Can You Get Screened?

Due to the specialized equipment required, mammograms are usually taken at a medical imaging facility and often require a referral from your primary care provider. At NOAH, our providers are dedicated to making sure you get the care you need stress-free:

  1. Schedule a well-woman exam with your NOAH health provider.
  2. During your visit, request an order or referral for a mammogram. Depending on your insurance, your provider will refer you to either Southwest Medical Imaging (SMIL) or SimonMed Imaging.
  3. Once you have the referral, schedule your mammogram appointment.
  4. Have questions about getting a mammogram or need help finding a location? Call us at 480-882-4545 and select option 5.

When Should You Get Screened?

Women at average risk for breast cancer should get screened every year starting at age 40. However, every situation is unique and recommendations may vary based on health history and risk. It’s not uncommon for women to get routine mammograms in their 30s. Ultimately the decision on when and how often to screen should be a joint decision between you and your provider.

Why Is Screening Important?

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the U.S. Early detection through screening significantly increases the chances of effective treatment and survival. Simply put, early detection can save your life.

For any questions or concerns, reach out to schedule an appointment with one of our providers today.

3 Health Screenings that Could Save Your Life

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1. Blood Pressure

What is it?

  • Blood pressure is the amount of force against the artery walls as your heart pumps blood. In other words, it’s a measurement of how hard your heart must work to push blood throughout your body.

Why is it important?

  • Untreated high blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and other serious health issues.
  • High blood pressure usually doesn’t have warning signs or symptoms, and many people don’t know they have it.  

How is it measured?

  • Blood pressure is measured by placing a cuff around your upper arm. Air is pushed into the cuff either by a machine or manual pump until it’s very tight on your arm, then the air is slowly released while the machine or a medical assistant listens with a stethoscope.  
  • Blood pressure readings are recorded as two numbers with a slash in between (ie. 120/80) and expressed as the top number over the bottom number (ie. 120 over 80).

2. Cholesterol

What is it?

  • Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance carried through your bloodstream by two types of packages called lipoproteins. High-density lipoproteins (HDL) help rid your body of excess cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) deposit excess cholesterol in your blood vessels.
  • Diet, exercise, genetics, and even stress can affect cholesterol levels.

Why is it important?

  • Not enough HDL, too much LDL, or a combination of both can cause blocked arteries leading to heart attack, stroke, or other serious problems.
  • There’s no way to know your cholesterol levels simply by how you feel.

How is it measured?

  • Cholesterol is measured through a blood test called a lipid profile.
  • Lipid profile results are usually provided as milligrams per deciliter or mg/dL for total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.

3. Cancer

What is it?

  • Cancer is a group of diseases where abnormal cells grow out of control and crowd out normal cells.
  • Gene changes that lead to cancer can have many possible causes. Lifestyle habits, genetics, and being exposed to certain chemicals or radiation can all play a role. Many times, there is no clear cause.

Why is it important?

  • According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 38.9% or 1 in 3 people in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetimes.
  • Most cancers are treatable if they are detected early.

What is the screening procedure?

Screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and skin cancers are commonly recommended by healthcare providers.

  • Breast cancer screening is usually conducted at an imaging center and uses a low-dose X-ray called a mammogram to identify abnormalities in the breast tissue.
  • Cervical cancer screening called a pap smear can be performed during a routine medical exam and consists of taking a sample of cells from the cervix. The samples are then sent to a lab for inspection under a microscope.
  • Common types of colorectal cancer screening options are:
    • fecal immunochemical test (FIT) – a stool sample is collected at home and sent to a lab where it is checked for the presence of blood. stool DNA test – a stool sample is collected at home and sent to a lab where it is checked for the presence of blood AND altered DNA.
    • colonoscopy – a procedure performed in a surgical center or hospital where a doctor uses a long, thin, lighted tube that checks the rectum and entire colon for cancer-causing polyps.
  • Lung cancer can be detected in early stages with a low dose X-ray of the lungs called a CT scan.
  • Skin cancer screening involves inspecting your entire body for visual abnormalities including irregular shaped freckles or moles. It’s especially important to check hard to see places like the scalp, groin, and in between fingers and toes.

Who should get screened?

Many factors impact who should be screened for various health conditions, at what age, and how often. It’s important to discuss your individual risk factors with your primary care provider and determine the plan that’s best for you. Browse our team of care providers or schedule an appointment to get started today.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is More Than Pink

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Breast cancer awareness is often symbolized by the color pink throughout October, but at NOAH, we believe it’s important to go beyond the symbol. We want you and your loved ones to be fully informed about breast cancer—understanding the risks, recognizing the signs and symptoms, and knowing about diagnosis, treatment options, and more. NOAH is here to support you every step of the way.

Breast Cancer Awareness Fast Facts:

  • Breast cancer occurs almost entirely in women, but according to the American Cancer Society, men can get breast cancer too.
  • Breast cancer is often (though not always) detected by a lump in the breast. However, most lumps in the breast are benign (not cancerous), but ALL lumps should be checked by your provider.
  • There are different kinds of breast cancer that start in different areas of the breast.
  • Alcohol increases the risk of developing breast cancer. An average of 1 drink per day increases risk by 7-10% while 2 to 3 drinks per day increases risk by 20%!
  • Being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight are the best things to do to prevent breast cancer. This is especially true for women after menopause.
  • Mammograms and breast ultrasounds are the most commonly used, and the most effective screening tool available to detect breast cancer early.
  • There is little to no benefit of doing self-breast exams or clinical breast exams, but women should still be alert and see a provider if anything looks or feels different.

Treatments for breast cancer will vary depending on the type of breast cancer and when it is diagnosed. At NOAH, we want to work with you to keep a healthy lifestyle, focus on prevention, answer any questions you have, support you through a diagnosis, and help you during treatment.

To learn more about breast cancer risks, types, treatments, and more, check out the American Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer section. To talk with your NOAH provider about any questions you have, request an appointment today.

What to Know for Healthy Aging Month

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Our bodies change in many ways as we age. The more we know what to expect and how to manage any challenges, the better. NOAH offers comprehensive healthcare for patients of all ages, but since September is Healthy Aging Month, we are sharing useful tips and reminders for you and your loved ones.

Don’t Miss Annual Physicals

Annual physicals are an opportunity for you to discuss your health and wellness with your primary care provider. Medical providers will order age-appropriate tests and labs to get a full picture of your health. At NOAH we strongly encourage our Medicare patients to schedule their annual Medicare Wellness Visit to discuss health goals and recommendations.

Get Regular Check-Ups

If you aren’t feeling well, make an appointment to see your provider. Patients, especially aging patients, shouldn’t try to wait it out if there is something wrong. Having regular check-ups will keep you feeling well and catch any potentially serious conditions early.

Mental Health Matters

No matter your age, your mental health is important. In aging adults, depression can have a negative impact on health conditions like heart disease and stroke. Patient’s often underestimate depression and mental health concerns, but it is important to everyone’s overall health to make sure mental wellbeing is, managed appropriately.

Get Moving

More physical activity means a healthier you! Getting active can help delay, prevent, or manage many chronic diseases like diabetes and high cholesterol. Being more active can also help keep your bone density and strength. Any exercise is better than none, so just get moving!

Eat For Your Health

Being overweight or obese will seriously harm your overall health, particularly as you age. Eating a nutritious diet will help manage chronic conditions, keep you healthy, and even improve your mood. Consider adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to your meals, and always talk to your provider about any diet changes.

If you have trouble accessing or affording healthy, nutritious food, talk to NOAH. We can help!

Stay Social for Healthy Aging

A recent study found that older adults with more social activity had more positive moods, fewer negative feelings, and higher levels of physical activity. If you don’t have a social network, look for one through volunteer activities, at senior centers, at church, or other local community groups.

NOAH is here for you and your loved ones at any age. To learn more about healthy aging, comprehensive care, enrolling in Medicare or another insurance plan, access to healthy food and other resources, reach out to NOAH today at 480-882-4545 or make an appointment online.

Skin Care Tips for Teens

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“Adolescence can be a tough time – especially on your teen’s skin! Almost 8 out of 10 teenagers will have acne at some point,” says NOAH pediatrician Dr. Deborah Bauer. This is because the changing hormones cause an increase in oil production and can lead to clogged pores. This can happen all over your child’s body, not just their face. And while acne isn’t dangerous for their health, it can cause scars and decrease their self-esteem.

Here are a few pointers for home care of your teen’s skin:

  • Keep it clean: They should wash their face with warm water and a gentle cleanser twice per day. CeraVe, Cetaphil and Dove make reasonably-priced and effective cleansers.
  • Be gentle: Harsh scrubbing or rough washcloths are not recommended. Your teen should be using just their hands to gently rub in the cleanser and rinse off.  Very hot water or very cold water should not be used.
  • Stick to the routine: Oily skin and acne can last for months or years, so it’s important to have a good skin routine to minimize the effects. Remind your teen to always remove make-up before sleeping.  And change sheets and pillowcases frequently.
  • Don’t pop pimples: Although it’s tempting, squeezing pimples will only make things worse. Not only will they introduce more oil onto their skin from their hands, but this will probably push the oil deeper into the skin and cause inflammation and swelling.
  • Keep moisturizing: Drying out their face can actually lead to more acne because their body will try to produce even more oils to keep their face from being so dry. Make sure the moisturizer bottle says “oil free” or “noncomedogenic” on it so it doesn’t clog their pores more.
  • Use sun block: This is important for every child, but especially for those with acne. The sun’s rays can irritate skin and make acne and scars much, much worse. Make sure the sunscreen is at least SPF 15.

Some kids even need prescription medication to help manage acne, and our NOAH Pediatricians are here to help with that too!

For more information about taking care of your skin, visit the American Academy of Dermatology.

Heart-Healthy Foods for September

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As we transition into the crisp days of fall, it’s an excellent time to focus on heart health by incorporating nutritious, seasonal foods into our diets. September brings a bounty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other heart-healthy options that can help support cardiovascular wellness. By making mindful choices, we can enjoy delicious meals while also taking proactive steps towards a healthier heart.

Incorporating the right foods into your diet can make a significant difference in your heart health. Here are some heart-healthy options to enjoy this September:

Fruits

  • Apples: High in fiber and antioxidants.
  • Pears: Rich in fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels.
  • Grapes: Contain resveratrol, which can help reduce inflammation.
  • Plums: Good source of vitamins and antioxidants.

Vegetables

  • Kale: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  • Broccoli: High in fiber and vitamins C and K.
  • Brussels Sprouts: Contain fiber and antioxidants.
  • Carrots: Good source of beta-carotene and fiber.

Whole Grains

  • Oats: Can help lower cholesterol levels.
  • Quinoa: High in protein and fiber.
  • Barley: Helps reduce cholesterol and improve heart health.
  • Brown Rice: Rich in fiber and beneficial nutrients.

Nuts and Seeds

  • Walnuts: Good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Almonds: Rich in healthy fats and fiber.
  • Flaxseeds: High in omega-3s and fiber.
  • Chia Seeds: Contain omega-3s, fiber, and protein.

Fish

  • Salmon: High in omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Mackerel: Another great source of omega-3s.
  • Sardines: Rich in heart-healthy fats.
  • Trout: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids.

Legumes

  • Lentils: High in fiber and protein.
  • Chickpeas: Great for heart health due to their fiber content.
  • Black Beans: Contain antioxidants and fiber.
  • Kidney Beans: Rich in nutrients that support heart health.

Healthy Fats

  • Olive Oil: Contains monounsaturated fats that are good for the heart.
  • Avocado: Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
  • Canola Oil: Another good source of monounsaturated fats.

Herbs and Spices

  • Garlic: Can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
  • Turmeric: Contains anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Ginger: Helps reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation.

Next Steps

Taking care of your heart involves more than just a balanced diet; regular check-ups and personalized medical advice are also crucial. At NOAH, our healthcare providers are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal heart health. If you have any concerns or need guidance on maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, request an appointment with a NOAH provider today. Together, we can create a wellness plan tailored to your needs.

Women’s Health Week – What You Need to Know About Cervical Cancer

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Women’s Health Week is May 12 – 18, making this a crucial time to talk about a major health issue affecting women globally: cervical cancer. Despite medical progress, this disease still affects women of all ages. That’s why awareness and prevention are so important. Understanding these aspects can give women control over their health, helping them make smart choices about screenings and vaccinations, and help to save lives.

What is Cervical Cancer and What Causes it?

Cervical cancer is a cancer that forms at the lower end of the uterus. Most cervical cancers are caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), the most spread sexually transmitted infection (STI). HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active people get the virus at some point in their lives. Most people’s bodies will naturally fight off the virus, but for those who can’t fight it off, HPV can lead to health issues like cervical cancer later in life. The good news is, cervical cancer is preventable and treatable if caught early.

How Can I Lower My Risk of Cervical Cancer?

First, get regular Papanicolaou (Pap) screens/tests. According to the CDC, only 66% of women over the age of 18 have had a Pap test in the past three years. Pap tests are covered by private insurance and Medicaid/AHCCCS and are the best way to diagnose any problems.

Second, get the HPV vaccine if possible. It is safe and very effective at reducing the risk of getting HPV-caused cancers later in life. The CDC estimates that around 90% of cervical cancer cases could be prevented by the HPV vaccine.

How Often Do I Need a Pap Test?

It used to be that Pap tests were recommended every year. With what we know now about HPV and cervical cancer risk factors, that recommendation has changed. The new recommendation for people also being tested for HPV is every three years for people aged 21-29, and every five years for people 30-65.

Who Can Get HPV Vaccines?

Typically, the three-dose HPV vaccine is recommended for males and females around age 11 or 12. We wrote all about the HPV vaccine here!

Schedule an appointment today to discuss your cervical health and take proactive steps towards prevention.

It Might Be Time for Your Annual Medicare Wellness Visit

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Are you or a loved one on Medicare insurance? If so, wellness should be top-of-mind and the good news is, it’s covered starting with the Medicare Wellness Visit.

The wellness visit through Medicare isn’t the traditional head-to-toe physical that most people are familiar with. The Wellness Visit covered under Medicare is an annual visit to identify and reduce any health risks your healthcare provider might find.

Wellness Visits Matter

The Medicare Wellness Visit, while not a traditional physical, is a tool for your medical provider to find gaps in your healthcare. The questions asked during the visit are specific and help to narrow down concerns while allowing your healthcare team to provide better care.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

At the wellness visit, we take a complete health history using a questionnaire from Medicare to understand a patient’s needs. If this is the patient’s first Medicare Wellness Visit, we will start with an EKG. Then your provider will discuss findings from the questionnaire and address concerns about your health and wellness.

Providers will do a limited physical exam to check blood pressure, weight, vision, and other things depending on a patient’s age, legal sex, and health history.

During the visit your provider can make referrals to specialists, order labs, and discuss necessary imaging and diagnostic tests like mammograms or colorectal cancer screenings. We will also talk about the risks and signs of depression, trips and falls, and other health and wellness concerns.

Our goal is to create a personalized prevention plan together to help prevent disease and challenges according to your health and risk factors.

What Not to Expect at Your Appointment

This isn’t a traditional physical. It may sound like it is, but there are distinct differences. The Medicare Wellness Visit allows healthcare providers to have a baseline for health and wellness that Medicare knows is important to this patient group.

Providers don’t generally address existing chronic health conditions or refill prescriptions at this appointment. The visit is specific to finding and addressing any new concerns and planning for the next year’s healthcare with the patient.

Scheduling a Medicare Wellness Visit every year is important and NOAH is here to help you stay on track.

If this is your first appointment at NOAH, we recommend you schedule a primary care appointment before your Medicare Wellness Visit. We want to get to know you, your health history, and discuss preexisting or chronic conditions ahead of time in order to create the best healthcare plan for the year ahead.

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