Whether it’s for a runny nose, a head bump, or rash, there are many reasons to call a doctor. Primary care physicians, whether a family medicine physician (one who treats children and adults) or internal medicine physician (one who just treats adults), can treat most common health issues. In the case of a more serious condition or injury, a primary care physician will refer a patient to a specialist. Primary care physicians are patient’s first line of defense.
Dr. Uche Olekanma, an internal medicine physician at MetroSouth Health Center at Avalon Park, explains the five most common reasons that patients schedule office visits:
- Annual physical examination
In a physical exam, a primary care physician will examine important functions such as heart rate, vision, respiratory function and hearing. The doctor will also check for chronic illness such as diabetes or heart disease. Keeping confidential records of this information will provide the doctor with an accurate portrait of a patient’s general health and will help him/her understand any new issues.An annual physical not only allows a physician to keep track of a patient’s overall health, but it helps create a strong relationship. Familiarity is important because the more comfortable a patient feels with a physician, the easier it is for them to assist when needed. Physicians recommend this exam take place once a year. Most commercial insurance companies cover an annual exam once a calendar year.
- Throat symptoms
Throat pain is also another common reason patients visit a primary care physician. Often, throat pain is due to inflammation caused by a viral or bacterial infection, such as strep throat or mononucleosis. Allergies can also cause discomfort in the throat depending on the severity of allergy symptoms. Since the throat is involved in eating and speaking, when it becomes irritated, it may greatly affect daily life. A primary care physician will diagnose the cause of pain and provide proper treatment options, such as prescription medication or over-the-counter remedies. - Cough
Coughing is the body’s natural way of clearing out foreign substances from the airways but coughing could be the symptom of many conditions, some of which can be serious. The “foreign substance” is typically mucus blocking the natural airflow to the lungs. Coughing can also be a symptom of a viral illness such as the common cold, an infection like pneumonia or the result of smoking. Sometimes, coughing is a result of allergies or asthma, both of which produce a dry cough.Since coughing cannot be pinpointed as the consequence of a single thing, a primary care physician should be consulted in order to properly diagnose a possible serious condition.
- Back Pain
It is estimated that back pain affects 80% of Americans in some way throughout their lives. Sometimes, back pain is caused by a trauma to the back such as during a sports injury. Most often it is due to degenerative conditions, more common as we get older. Seeing a physician for back problems is important if the pain is severe or spreads to other parts of the body. A primary care physician will refer a patient to a recommended specialist if he/she cannot adequately treat the pain. - Ear Pain
Ear pain is often a symptom of an upper respiratory condition and will usually develop a few days after an initial condition begins. Ear infections are especially common in young children and the pain can cause them extreme discomfort due to pain, possible discharge and difficulty sleeping comfortably. If ear pain does not subside after a short period of time, a primary care physician will be able to prescribe necessary treatment, such as an antibiotic.
If you are experiencing any of these issues or have other general health-related questions, call Dr. Uche Olekamna, internal medicine physician, MetroSouth Health Center at Avalon Park: 773-721-7772.
