What Do Doctors Check for During A Physical Examination?

Posted on November 24, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Getting routine checkups from a primary care physician is essential to maintaining good health.

A routine checkup typically involves your doctor taking vital signs, such as your blood pressure and temperature, reviewing your medical history, medications, and lifestyle, and performing a physical exam.

During a physical examination, your doctor may:

Look into your ears: An otoscope is the instrument used to look into your ear canal. Your doctor uses this tool to check for signs of inflammation, infection, or other health problems.
Listen to your heart and lungs: Your doctor will use a stethoscope to listen to your heart and lungs. By listening to abnormalities such as wheezing, heart murmurs, gurgling, or crackling, your provider can identify potential health problems.
Look into your mouth: A tongue depressor is the tool doctors use to hold the tongue down, allowing a clear view of the mouth and throat. Your doctor will look for signs of infection or certain medical conditions.
Tap or feel the abdomen: Your doctor may tap or feel your abdomen to listen to specific sounds or check for masses, tenderness, or fluid.
Feel the lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes in the neck may indicate infection or inflammation elsewhere in the body. Therefore, your doctor will feel your neck lymph nodes for swelling.

Performing a thorough physical examination during your routine checkup can help doctors detect certain conditions early or investigate potential health problems. Routine checkups are also important because they provide an opportunity to discuss any health concerns you may have and build a relationship with your doctor.

To schedule a routine checkup with a primary care provider at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Nitazenes

Posted on October 14, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Researchers believe the use of benzimidazole opioids, also known as nitazene opioids or nitazenes, is on the rise.

Nitazenes are a class of highly potent (powerful) synthetic opioids that were developed over 60 years ago, in the 1950s, as an alternative to morphine. However, they were never approved for medical use in the United States due to their high risk of dangerous side effects and overdose.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), nitazenes are often abused for their psychoactive effects. These effects may include feelings of euphoria, pain relief, reduced stress, sleepiness, relaxation, or sedation. Other potential effects include nausea, vomiting, fever, itchiness, slow breathing, and a slow heart rate.

The Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD) states that nitazenes are distributed in pure form or mixed with other drugs. They can be made into sprays, pills, or powders, which can be inhaled, swallowed, taken sublingually, or injected. Nitazenes are sometimes used unintentionally because people are unaware that other illicit drugs are laced with it.

Nitazenes, which can be far more powerful than fentanyl and other opioids, present an increased risk of overdose. Taking a high dose of nitazene may result in the following symptoms of an opioid overdose:

Discolored skin (Blue or gray skin, lips, or nails)
Losing consciousness
Weak or limp limbs
Unresponsiveness
Pin-point pupils
Vomiting
Gurgling or snoring sounds
Coma
Death

If someone you know is displaying these signs, act quickly by calling 911 and administering Naloxone or other opioid overdose reversal drugs, if available.

If you have a loved one struggling with substance abuse, it’s natural to feel confused and helpless. Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate the path to recovery and healing alone.

At Flushing Hospital Medical Center, our Psychiatry Department has a Division of Addiction Services where your loved one can receive comprehensive assessments and treatment for alcohol and drug dependency. These services are available through our outpatient Reflections Treatment Program.

For more information about our Reflections treatment program, please contact us at (718) 670-5078.

One-sided Headaches

Posted on October 7, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

A headache is a feeling of pain that can occur in the head, face, or neck.

Headaches can be categorized as primary or secondary. Primary headaches occur independently and are not caused by any underlying medical conditions. In contrast, secondary headaches are triggered by other health issues.

Headaches can be further classified based on their location, intensity, duration, and frequency.

It is common for people to experience headaches on just one side of the head. Types of headaches that are more likely to occur on one side of the head (left or right) include cluster headaches, migraines, tension headaches, SUNCT headache, or Hemicrania continua.

Throbbing and persistent pain on one side of the head, particularly in the temples, can also be a sign of temporal arteritis. This condition is caused by inflammation of the blood vessels in the neck and head.

Other potential causes of left or right-sided headaches are:

Neurological conditions
Stroke
Environmental triggers such as bright light or changes in temperature
Allergies
Sinusitis
Stress
Hormonal changes
Medication side effects
Teeth grinding
Anxiety disorders
Trauma (Head Injury)
Aneurysm
Genetics

Most headaches will resolve on their own. However, if you have a headache that persists or occurs frequently, it is important to see a doctor. If the pain is sudden and severe, or accompanied by fever, a stiff neck, or fainting, this may indicate a serious condition, and you should go to your nearest emergency room.

If you need help managing your headaches, please schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center by calling 718-670-5486.

Pica

Posted on October 1, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

We have all experienced unusual cravings for certain foods. However, if a person begins to crave or eat non-food items, this should not be ignored because it may be a sign of pica.

Pica is an eating disorder in which a person persistently craves or eats items that are not food or items that have no nutritional value, such as:

Ice
Dirt
Hair
Paint chips
Chalk
Baby powder
Paper
Soap
Egg shells
Glue

Pica can lead to the following health problems:

Poisoning
Choking
Intestinal blockages
Parasitic infections
Dental damage
Constipation

The exact cause of pica is unknown; however, it is believed that the following risk factors may increase the chance of developing it:

Nutritional deficiencies, such as iron or calcium deficiencies
Certain medical conditions, such as sickle cell anemia or pregnancy
Stress or anxiety
Child neglect or living in adverse conditions during childhood
Cultural or learned behaviors
Taking certain medications, such as antipsychotics or those that cause nausea

Anyone can develop pica, but it more commonly occurs in young children, pregnant women, people with certain mental health conditions, including schizophrenia or obsessive-compulsive disorder, or individuals with intellectual disabilities.

If you are experiencing symptoms of pica, you should see your doctor. Your doctor can diagnose the disorder by asking about your medical history and eating habits. Your doctor may also order blood tests to investigate nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, a psychological evaluation may be requested to determine mental health conditions.

Pica is typically treated based on the underlying reason that is believed to be the cause. A doctor may prescribe or recommend supplements for people with nutritional deficiencies. Therapy, lifestyle modifications, or medications may be recommended to treat individuals with intellectual disabilities or mental health conditions.

To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

Itching and Kidney Disease

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Extremely itchy skin, or uremic pruritus, is a common symptom experienced by people living with chronic or advanced kidney disease. Patients undergoing dialysis are more likely to experience uremic pruritus than those who are not on dialysis.

The exact cause of uremic pruritus associated with kidney disease is not fully known. However, according to the National Kidney Foundation, there are several reasons why those with kidney disease may experience chronic itching, including:

The body attacks itself, leading to inflammation and itching.
Nerve issues may cause the skin to receive incorrect signals.
When the kidneys are damaged, toxins and waste products can accumulate in the body.
Shrinking sweat glands can result in very dry skin.
The body may produce chemicals that trigger allergy symptoms, including itching.
Hemodialysis treatments may not be long enough or may not completely clean the blood.

Uremic pruritus can be unbearable, and many patients scratch their skin to stop the constant itch. Scratching can lead to skin damage and infection. Persistent itching, without relief, can also impact quality of life, sleep, and mental health.

If you are living with advanced or chronic kidney disease and experiencing persistent itching, please inform your doctor. Your healthcare provider can help you manage symptoms by prescribing medications, making adjustments in your dialysis treatments, or recommending ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy.

Health Benefits of Summer Fruits

Posted on August 5, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Summer fruits are exceptionally flavorful this time of year because they are in season, having ripened naturally before being harvested.

In addition to offering us a delicious treat, summer fruits provide nutrients, antioxidants, and minerals that are good for our health.

Here is a list of summer fruits along with their health benefits:

Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, and other nutrients that support the immune system. They are also a good source of folate and copper, as well as polyphenols that act as antioxidants, which protect our cells against free radicals.
Cherries offer various health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation in the body and protect against cell damage. Cherries also contain melatonin, which helps improve sleep quality.
Apples are an excellent source of pectin, which is a type of fiber that aids digestion. They are also rich in antioxidants such as quercetin, which may help lower blood pressure and help regulate the immune system.
Peaches are a good source of minerals such as magnesium and potassium. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and E. Peaches are also packed with antioxidants that help protect our cells from damage and may help reduce inflammation.
Apricots offer a wide range of health benefits. They contain several essential vitamins, including A, C, and E, and minerals such as potassium. Additionally, apricots are rich in fiber and antioxidants, which fight free radicals in the body.

Adding summer fruits to a balanced diet can benefit our health. The recommended amount of fruit we should consume daily varies based on factors such as our age, sex, weight, height, and physical activity level. For general recommendations, you can visit https://www.myplate.gov/myplate-plan. You can also receive a personalized care plan from a dietitian at Flushing Hospital Medical Center by calling 718-670-5486

5 Medications That May Interact With Coffee

Posted on July 22, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Many people enjoy coffee for its caffeine content, which provides a stimulating effect. While this caffeinated beverage is generally safe to consume, it may interact with certain medications, potentially affecting how well the medication works for you.

Here are five medications that may interact with caffeine:

Blood thinners- caffeine can slow blood clotting; therefore, mixing it with blood thinners can increase your risk of bleeding.
Thyroid medications – caffeine can reduce the absorption of certain thyroid medications, which makes them less effective. This may lead to inconsistent thyroid levels and symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, or weight gain.
Asthma medications – having coffee or other caffeinated beverages along with certain asthma medications can reduce their absorption. Mixing the two may also worsen side effects that may result from these medications.
Blood pressure medications – drinking coffee around the same time as taking certain blood pressure medications may cause your body to absorb less of these medications. Caffeinated coffee may also increase blood pressure levels, which makes it harder for medications to work.
Antidepressants- caffeine may affect how well your body absorbs certain antidepressants, lessening their effect or benefits. Combining coffee with some of these medications may also increase the risk of side effects.

If you are taking any of these types of medications, you should speak with your doctor or pharmacist about consuming coffee or other sources that have a high caffeine content. Caffeine may reduce the effectiveness of medicines and exacerbate the symptoms of health conditions being treated.

Early Signs of Diabetes

Posted on June 6, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Diabetes is a chronic (long-lasting) disease that occurs when your glucose or blood sugar levels are too high. Having diabetes affects the body’s ability to make enough insulin (a hormone produced by the pancreas) or use it properly.

Insulin is needed to move glucose from our bloodstream into our cells, where it is converted into energy. If glucose is not moved into our cells, too much of it remains in the bloodstream.

Consistently high blood sugar left untreated can lead to complications or other serious health problems, including:

Damage to the eyes (potentially leading to blindness)
Heart disease
Neuropathy or nerve damage
Kidney damage or kidney disease
Vascular disease
Limb loss
Stroke
Foot ulcers

Recognizing the early signs of diabetes and getting treatment promptly can help minimize the risk of health complications. Here are some of the early signs of the disease to be aware of:

Increased thirst
Extreme hunger
Frequent urination
Blurred vision
Slow-healing wounds or infections
Unexplained weight loss
Numbness or tingling in the hands, legs, or feet
Fatigue
Dry mouth
Acanthosis nigricans (a condition characterized by darkening of the skin in certain places, such as the neck and armpits)
Stroke

If you are experiencing these symptoms, please schedule an appointment with your doctor. Doctors diagnose diabetes through tests that may include glucose tolerance tests, A1C tests, or fasting blood sugar tests. If it is determined that you have diabetes, your physician may prescribe medications and make recommendations for lifestyle changes.

To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

How High Blood Pressure Affects Kidney Health

Posted on June 3, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, negatively impacts our health, including kidney health.

Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney failure, and impaired kidney function can also lead to higher blood pressure levels.

High blood pressure, if left untreated or uncontrolled over time, can damage the blood vessels in our kidneys. When this happens, the kidneys do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients needed for proper functioning.

Additionally, high blood pressure can cause scarring of kidney tissue, a condition known as hypertensive arteriolar nephrosclerosis. This scarring impairs our kidneys’ ability to filter blood and regulate fluids.

When kidneys are damaged, they cannot filter blood effectively and struggle to remove waste and excess fluid from the body. This retention of fluids, salt, and toxins can further elevate blood pressure.

To significantly reduce the risk of these complications and others associated with high blood pressure, it is important to manage our health effectively. This can be achieved by:

Taking medications as prescribed
Limiting our sodium intake
Eating a healthy diet
Having regular blood pressure screenings
Drinking less alcohol
Exercising
Quitting smoking or using tobacco
Controlling cholesterol

Working with your doctor to control your blood pressure can help you minimize your risk of kidney damage and other health problems. To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Posted on May 19, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. It occurs when diabetes damages the small blood vessels in the retina.

In some people, diabetic retinopathy may cause blood vessels to swell and leak fluid; in others, abnormal blood vessels may grow on the retina’s surface. These changes over time can lead to vision loss or permanent blindness.

The longer a person has diabetes, the more likely they are to develop diabetic retinopathy. They may not have any symptoms in the early stages of the disease. However, as it progresses, they might experience:

Trouble seeing far-away objects
Seeing dark, floating spots
Difficulty reading
Blurry vision
Poor night vision
Color blindness or color vision changes
Blind spots

In addition to having diabetes, other factors can increase the risk of diabetic retinopathy. They include:

High blood pressure
Pregnancy (gestational diabetes)
High cholesterol
Poor control of high blood sugar levels
Smoking

You can reduce your risk of diabetic retinopathy by:

Controlling blood sugar levels by taking medications as prescribed and following your healthcare provider’s care plan
Quitting smoking
Managing cholesterol
Managing high blood pressure
Maintaining a healthy diet
Getting regular eye exams

Regular eye exams can help your doctor detect and diagnose diabetic retinopathy early. Timely treatments can reduce the risk of complications or other serious eye conditions.

There are several treatment options available if you develop diabetic retinopathy. They can include injecting medications into the eye, focal laser treatments, scatter laser treatments, or eye surgery.

If you are looking for an eye doctor in Flushing, NY, our ophthalmology clinic provides a range of treatment options for both adults and children. To schedule an appointment, please call 718-670-5486.