Charles Crutchfield III MD

The term “flu” is short for the name influenza. Influenza is a viral infection of the human respiratory system. The influenza virus infects the nose, throat and lungs causing the infected person to feel very ill.

Anemia is a medical condition where you have less than a desirable amount of red blood cells in circulation. Red blood cells carry a protein, called hemoglobin, that binds and carries oxygen to active tissues to keep all the organs of your body working at their best.

Food poisoning is any illness that happens after eating contaminated food. It is also commonly called “foodborne illness.” The illness can arise from contamination if the form of bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites, or any toxins these germs produce remain in the food that becomes ingested.

A fever is an increase in temperature of the human body. A fever is a way for your body to tell you that something is not quite right, with the most common cause of fever being illness.

What’s the difference between humans and jellyfish? Well, for one thing (out of many), it is our bony skeleton! There are 206 bones in the body. The human skeleton is a strong structure that is made up of bones, ligaments, cartilage and joints.

The skin is the largest organ in the body and is the protective fortress that keeps the rest of you safe from the dangers of the outside environment. Avoid these skin sins and enjoy happier and healthier skin.

Although one would not normally think of it, skin is a key player in a strong immune system. It forms a tight, waterproof barrier to the surrounding environment and also blocks any germs trying to get inside.

Lymphoma is a type of cancer. It is a cancer of white blood cells, called lymphocytes.

Make sure it is from a doctor you are familiar with, and try to maintain continuity of care by scheduling an examination with the same doctor every year. The examination should include the standard blood tests for your age including, but not limited to, the evaluation of blood sugar, thyroid and cholesterol.

Cancer is actually an entire group of diseases that result from the uncontrolled growth of normal cells. Cancers are a leading cause of death, and the war against cancer is a constant battle. Rarely a day goes by without any mention of it in the media.

Our bones are the scaffolding and framework for our body. However, without joints, we’d be as immobile as the Tin Man without oil.

Last week in this column we discussed how community programs, physicians and medical schools, and pharmaceutical companies can help reduce healthcare disparities. This week we look at three other players who can contribute to the effort.

Last week in this column we discussed how individuals and their families can help reduce healthcare disparities by developing and executing Personal Health Plans (PHPs). This week we look at other players who can contribute to this effort

Merriam-Webster defines disparity as “the state of being different.” The term “health disparities” refers to several conditions. It almost always refers to differences in groups relating to their socioeconomic status, race and/or gender.

Advances in medicine have enriched the quality and prolonged the lives of humankind. These medical advances have come in the form increased basic medical knowledge, diagnostic abilities, and treatment options including medicinal and surgical approaches.

Eczema is a term for “inflammation of the skin.” Inflamed skin is itchy, red, swollen and flakey. In extreme cases it can even crack, weep and blister. Dermatitis is another name for eczema. Eczema and dermatitis are synonyms and used interchangeably.

Having one of these conditions does not mean that you have metabolic syndrome, but you should ask your doctor if it is worth checking for the other components of the syndrome at your next visit. Having metabolic syndrome increases your risk for developing heart disease, stroke, and/or diabetes.

Dear Doctor: This morning, when I looked in the mirror, I noticed I had a big, red bloodspot in the white part of my eye. I don’t remember injuring my eye. How did this happen? Most likely, you are suffering from a condition known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage. This is a surprisingly common occurrence. Fortunately, the […]