emergency room Plano Tag

Are Energy Drinks Really Bad for You?

A late morning or an early afternoon slump may have you reaching for an energy drink to boost your energy and power up for the rest of the day. Packaged in attractive and portable cans, these drinks seem like little more than a soda designed to give you wings. But regular consumption can actually result in a quick trip to the emergency room or a fast track to a chronic health condition like hypertension.¹

Marketed to youth, energy drinks are consumed mostly by children, teen and young adults. “While the American Academy of Pediatrics warns that children and adolescents should not consume energy drinks, there still are many who do,” said Medco ER’s Medical Director, Dr. Nasir Khan. “They seem mostly unaware of the risk they are taking in spiking their hormone levels, overdosing on caffeine, and gambling with exacerbating a latent condition they may not even know they have, such as a heart arrhythmia.” 

What’s in an energy drink? 

The main source of energy in an energy drink comes from caffeine. While caffeine content varies, energy drinks generally have three to six times the amount of caffeine as coffee does. Also, considering how quickly a can could be consumed, that could be comparable to drinking six cups of coffee in 30 minutes.

There are five basic components most energy drinks share.

• Caffeine – a legally addictive substance. Too much caffeine increases heart rate and blood pressure and causes insomnia and anxiety.²
• Taurine – an amino acid that possibly stimulates brain activity and increases physical performance.² A ban on taurine has made many energy drinks illegal in other countries.
• Sugar – most people don’t realize that energy drinks contain as much or more sugar than regular sodas. That’s a whopping amount of sugar to consume regularly and can result in unhealthy weight gain.
• Guarana – from a tropical plant from South America, these seeds contain a high caffeine content.³
• Glucuronolactone – claimed to be a caffeine-like stimulant, there is no scientific evidence to support its use.³

What does your energy drink do to your body? 

Caffeine triggers a supercharging of receptors which then release norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin in the brain.¹ Additionally, there is an increased risk of caffeine intoxication which causes a myriad of bad side effects and potentially lasting damage.

“Energy drinks can easily lead to caffeine overdoses which can lead to seizures, heart problems and death,” said Dr. Khan. “When combined with alcohol, the effects can be masked which can cause a person to not realize how much damage they are doing to their body.”

What are common symptoms of an energy drink-related emergency?

• Seizures
• Heart complications – irregular heartbeat, racing heart, heart failure
• Hypertension
• Hypotension
• Dehydration
• Anxiety
• Insomnia

How can I get an energy boost without the risk of energy drinks?

Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help you get the vitamins and minerals needed to keep your energy at an even keel. Protein can give you long-lasting energy burns. Low-to-no caffeine teas or coffee can also be substituted for energy drinks. Sports drinks have a lot of additives but can be researched and considered as an alternative to energy drinks.

Getting plenty of water will help your body operate at its peak. Milk and 100% fruit juice should be offered in place of manufactured drinks.⁴ Sales of these drinks should take the place of energy drinks in schools and colleges.⁵

Get Help Fast at Medco ER 

If you are experiencing any adverse symptoms from energy drink consumption or alcohol mixed with energy drinks, come in right away to the nearest Medco ER. We are open 24/7 every day of the year and our board-certified physicians are experienced in diagnosing and treating these conditions.  

• Plano: 3960 Legacy Drive, Plano, TX 75023 (on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road)

Call us @ 469-747-0370

• Carrollton: 2745 E Belt Line Road, Carrollton, TX 75006

Call us @ 469-840-4600

¹ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8083152/

² https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/taurine/faq-20058177

³ https://fherehab.com/learning/energy-drink-overdose

⁴ https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/nutrition/energy.htm

⁵ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4320741/

When IBS is an Emergency

Top 10 Reasons to Go to the ER

Healthcare today gives you more choices than ever before. You can go to the doctor’s office, urgent care clinic, telehealth visit or emergency room. Even with all these choices, some choose to stay home and tough it out. But there are times when the emergency room is absolutely the right choice. The board-certified physicians at Medco ER in Plano, TX, have compiled ten reasons when going to the ER is your only option.

“If you’re wondering whether or not to go to the ER, ask yourself if it is not getting better over time, if pain has you sidelined, or if there is one of the warning signs of a serious condition,” said Medco ER’s Medical Director, Dr. Nasir Khan. “If you answer yes to any of those points, it’s best to come immediately and let us examine you.”

Blood Loss

Whenever the body is losing blood, a trip to the ER is the right thing to do. This could include any of the following:

• Coughing blood
• Vomiting blood
• Passing blood in the stool
• Excessive bleeding from a laceration
• Bleeding from a fracture
• Uncontrolled bloody nose

Fracture or Tear

If you have an injury and you’re not sure whether it is broken, fractured, torn or just bruised, your doctor at Medco ER can help. We can X-ray the area, apply a brace, or refer you to a specialist when needed.

Warning signs include: numbness or cold in the extremity that is injured, pain when moving the limb, bleeding accompanying the fracture, bone protruding, or misalignment of the limb. For any of these symptoms, go to Medco ER immediately.

Breathing Difficulties

If you or someone you love is struggling to breathe, pulling hard at each breath, making a wheezing sound with a breath, showing blueish discoloration around the mouth or fingertips, or has chest tightness, go to the nearest ER immediately. Whether it is a complication of COVID-19, an asthma attack, COPD or another cause, breathing difficulties must be addressed as an emergency.¹

Chest Pain

Sudden or growing pain in the chest, jaw, neck, arm or back could indicate a heart problem that is an emergency. Other symptoms could include:²

• Tightness in chest
• Uncomfortable fullness feeling
• Heartburn
• Squeezing feeing in chest
• Pain in one or both arms
• Cold sweat
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath

Stroke Symptoms

Symptoms of a stroke can come on suddenly and unexpectedly. If someone exhibits these symptoms, call 911 immediately.² Every minute counts.

• Confusion or disorientation
• Arm weakness
• Partial paralysis or difficulty moving
• Unexplained drowsiness
• Difficulty speaking
• Change in vision
• Face drooping

Loss of Consciousness

Any time someone has lost consciousness, whether for a short time or is unresponsive, take them to the nearest ER or call 911. Loss of consciousness accompanied by seizures should also be seen by a physician immediately.

Head Injury

If you have fallen and hit your head, been hit in the head by an object, or had a severe shaking of the head, you might sustain a head injury or a concussion. Here are some warning signs³ that require a visit to the ER:

• Pain from the injury
• Confusion or disorientation
• Loss of consciousness
• Ringing of the ears
• Sudden drowsiness or fatigue
• Vision changes
• Nausea or vomiting
• Slurred speech

Burns

If you are suffering from a burn, consider the severity. Just going by pain level alone isn’t enough since minor burns often hurt worse than major burns.⁴ If it covers a large area, has penetrated deep, has discolored the skin, has swollen the area or has caused blisters, a trip to Medco ER is a good idea.

Abdominal Pain

Pain in the abdomen can indicate one of several conditions. All of them require immediate medical intervention. “If you’ve experienced abdominal pain for any length of time, it’s a good idea to come in and let us check you out,” said Dr. Khan. “It could be anything from a bleeding ulcer to gallbladder stones to a cyst. With a thorough examination and imaging scan, we should be able to diagnose the problem.”

Extreme Pain

If you’re experiencing extreme pain that isn’t responding to over-the-counter medication and isn’t getting better with time and rest, your body is trying to tell you something. It’s time to go to Medco ER.

• Migraine or headache
• Back pain
• Shooting pain
• Chest pain
• Pain when eating
• Pain that takes away your appetite
• Throbbing pain
• Eye pain
• Toothache
• Stomach pain

What to Expect at Medco ER

When you go to Medco ER, you can expect to receive fast, quality healthcare with little-to-no wait time. Open 24/7 every day of the year, Medco ER gives you fast access to a board-certified physician and much of the same imaging equipment found in a hospital emergency department. Our in-house pharmacy carries rapid results labs and medications needed to treat many conditions. Try one of our two convenient locations for rapid response healthcare.

• Plano: 3960 Legacy Drive, Plano, TX 75023 (on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road)

            Call us @ 469-747-0370

• Carrollton: 2745 E Belt Line Road, Carrollton, TX 75006 

            Call us @ 469-840-4600

¹ https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/shortness-of-breath/basics/definition/sym-20050890

² https://www.heart.org/en/about-us/heart-attack-and-stroke-symptoms

³ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/symptoms-causes/syc-20355594

⁴ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12063-burns

8 Tips for a Healthy Holiday

Looking forward to the elaborate holiday feasts but dreading your blood sugar swings, exhaustion and weight gain? At Medco ER & Urgent Care in Plano, TX, our board-certified physicians have put together 8 tips to help you make the best choices for a home run healthy, happy holiday season.

“The holidays are fraught with tension, extra work and poor eating choices,” said Medco ER & Urgent Care’s Medical Director, Dr. Nasir Khan. “But with a bit of planning, you can reduce your stress and feel better as you spend time with loved ones.”

Avoid feast or famine

It’s easy to skip a meal or two in advance to get ready for a big holiday feast, and then pile it on once you get to the table. This is a sure way to make your blood sugar swing wildly. Instead, eat a small snack before going to the party and watch your portions once you get there.

Make it count

While you don’t have to rigidly count calories at your family gatherings, it is advisable to be judicial in choosing where you are willing to spend the most calories. Choose your favorite foods and take smaller portions of them.¹

Drink more not less

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. But go easy on the rest of the drinks. Remember that egg nog, punch, soda and alcoholic drinks can pack a whopping amount of calories where a fruited water spritzer has none. Also, alcohol makes you hungrier and reduces your ability to make healthy choices.¹

Say goodbye to stress

Knowing that stress levels will be high during the holidays, you can make a plan now for ways to reduce it. Simplify your expectations to center on the most important people and traditions. Plan breaks for yourself.² Choose shortcuts for the month, such as preparing freezer-ready meals in advance. Get plenty of rest. Eat well and exercise.

Slower is better

Remembering that it takes up to 20 minutes for your brain to get the signal that your stomach is full, take longer between courses and go slow on second helpings. A side benefit is less heartburn from not overeating.

Green is good

If you are a snacker, make sure there are plenty of fresh vegetables to grab. Avoid standing next to the snack table where it is tempting to grab more chips. Make sure you put plenty of veggies on your plate during the feast, too.³

Sneak in the substitutions

Don’t be afraid to look for healthier options for traditional foods. No one will mind that there is Monkfruit sweetener in the pies, chicken broth with only a bit of butter in the stuffing, hummus for raw veggies or yogurt dip for the fruit tray. Healthy choices like fanciful pear-pomegranate-pistachio salads with raspberry vinaigrettes can joyfully replace traditional butter-swamped or mushroom soup-covered hot vegetables.

Avoid the allergens

If you suffer from food allergies or are sensitive to things like gluten or monosodium glutamate (MSG), keep that in mind before diving into the dips, cookies and other scrumptious-looking treats. Russian tea cakes have ground up nuts and flavored chips and dips often have MSG.

Medco ER & Urgent Care is here when you need us

Since medical concerns don’t care if it’s the holidays or if it’s the middle of the night, Medco ER & Urgent Care is open all day and night, every day of the year, to provide you with the quality healthcare you need. If you or your loved ones aren’t feeling well, come in right away for an expert evaluation and treatment plan.

• Plano location:

3960 Legacy Drive, Plano TX 75023 (on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road)

            Call us @ 469-392-4000

¹ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/12-tips-for-holiday-eating-201212242506

² https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/holiday-stress-try-our-top-5-tips-for-a-healthy-holiday-season

³ https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/holidays-healthy-eating.html

6 Things You Need to Know About Urinary Tract Infections

A mild twinge may soon bloom into a bout of painful, frequent, bloody and unproductive urination known as a urinary tract infection (UTI). A UTI is a painful condition caused by bacterial growth anywhere in the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra, although it may also be called a bladder infection or kidney infection if it is located there. At Medco ER & Urgent Care of Plano, TX, we can diagnose and treat a UTI before it becomes too painful.

“Most women and many men will experience at least one UTI during their lifetime,” said Medco ER & Urgent Care’s Medical Director, Dr. Nasir Khan. “Fortunately, it is one of the easiest conditions to diagnose and to treat.”

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection

Symptoms can be anywhere from mild to severe. They may or may not include:¹

• Pain or burning during urination
• Persistent sensation of needing to urinate without urine present
• Frequent urination of small amounts
• Discolored urine – dark, pink, deep yellow, or brownish
• Cloudy urine
• Strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain in women
• Burning pain
• Back pain
• Side pain
• Fever, chills
• Nausea, vomiting

Causes of UTI

A UTI is caused by the presence of bacteria in the urinary tract.² A common cause is bacteria entering from the rectum to the urethra. Sexual activity may also introduce bacteria that can cause a UTI.

Risk Factors for UTI

You are more likely to develop a UTI if you:³

• Are sexually active
• Are a woman after menopause
• Have a condition that blocks the urethra, such as an enlarged prostate
• Have kidney stones
• Are a woman who has used a diaphragm or spermicides for birth control
• Have diabetes
• Have had a UTI in the past
• Have used a catheter
• Are immunocompromised

Prevention of UTI

While a UTI can be hard to prevent, there are some things you can do to help reduce your risks. For babies and children, make sure they are receiving enough water every day. Teach girls the proper way to wipe – from front to back. For adults, make sure you are also drinking enough water each day. Cranberry juice may be beneficial. Urinating after sexual intercourse may help purge the urethra of bacteria. Change from polyester underwear to cotton and wear loose-fitting, breathable pants. Minimize or eliminate sprays, douches, powders or soaps that may irritate.

Diagnosis of UTI

Your physician at Medco ER will have you give a urine sample for testing. In some cases, a cystoscopy, ultrasound or CT scan may be required if you have been experiencing repeated UTIs.

Treatment for UTI

Treating a UTI is almost always successful with a course of antibiotics. Patients need to take the antibiotics according to the prescription to fully eradicate the infection.

Seek Immediate Medical Treatment

“A urinary tract infection must be treated by a medical professional. At-home remedies never work,” said Dr. Khan. “They may slow the bacterial growth but they won’t fully reverse the infection. It’s not an invasive or difficult treatment, so come to Medco ER right away and get the help you need to get over the UTI.”

If left untreated, a life-threatening condition of widespread infection, called sepsis, may occur. Or, the kidneys may be permanently damaged. If you are experiencing painful urination or have any of the above symptoms, come to Medco ER & Urgent Care right away.

Get help for your UTI at Medco ER & Urgent Care

It doesn’t take long for a UTI to become painful. When you start to notice symptoms of a UTI, come to Medco ER & Urgent Care right away. We’re open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. We will make sure you are seen by a board-certified physician right away. Our in-house rapid results labs can verify diagnosis and you can soon be on your way to feeling like yourself again.

• Plano location:

3960 Legacy Drive, Plano TX 75023 (on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road)

            Call us @ 469-392-4000

¹ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447

² https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/uti.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fantibiotic-use%2Fcommunity%2Ffor-patients%2Fcommon-illnesses%2Futi.html

³ https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/bladder-infection-uti-in-adults/all-content

Is it Appendicitis?

A sharp, piercing side pain is obviously appendicitis—or inflammation of the appendix—but what if your pain is more of a general throbbing, vague abdominal pain, or upset stomach? One of the greatest emergency room challenges is figuring out what is causing your abdominal pain. At Medco ER & Urgent Care of Plano, TX, we are experienced in pinpointing the source of your abdominal pain and finding the treatment that’s right for you.

“Appendicitis doesn’t always manifest in a simple way,” said Medco ER & Urgent Care’s Medical Director, Dr. Nasir Khan. “But our board-certified emergency medicine physicians are able to use our in-house diagnostic tools to find the root of the pain.”

Causes of Appendicitis

While the cause of appendicitis may not always be clear, here are some common reasons:¹

• Blockage of the opening of the appendix
• Enlarged wall tissue in the appendix caused by an infection in gastrointestinal system
• Disease such as inflammatory bowel disease
• Parasites
• Growths in the appendix
• Matter that clogs the appendix
• Abdominal trauma

Symptoms of Appendicitis

• Pain or discomfort in abdomen, often near the belly button
• Pain localized on lower right side
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Abdominal bloating
• Abdominal tenderness
• Loss of appetite
• Malaise
• Stiff abdomen

Diagnosis of Appendicitis

To diagnose your abdominal pain to determine if it is appendicitis, your physician will do a physical exam including checking for abdominal stiffness and the tendency to guard or react when pressed. A rectal or pelvic exam may be performed to locate the source of the pain. A blood test may show an elevated white blood cell count which may mean you have an infection. A urine test will eliminate a urinary tract infection or kidney stone that would be causing pain. Finally, an imaging exam, such as a CT scan, X-ray or ultrasound may be used in diagnosis.²

Treatment for Appendicitis

“There is really only one treatment for appendicitis – an appendectomy,” said Dr. Khan. “If the appendix hasn’t ruptured, it is a straightforward procedure that can be done as a minimally invasive surgery to remove the appendix. Recovery should be rapid and antibiotics may be prescribed to ward off infection. However, if the appendix ruptured, the surgery and recovery will be more extensive.”

Seek Immediate Medical Treatment

Appendicitis is a serious medical condition. If left untreated, sepsis may occur, which is life-threatening. If you are experiencing pain or have any of these symptoms, come to Medco ER & Urgent Care right away:

• Abdominal pain or back pain
• Intense pain on your right side
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills

Get help fast at Medco ER & Urgent Care

With little-to-no wait time, you can get right into an exam room and be seen by a board-certified physician within minutes. At Medco ER & Urgent Care, we offer you top-quality care from physicians rather than PAs, CNPs or assistants. Our ER is equipped with the imaging and lab equipment needed to quickly diagnose and to treat your abdominal pain. Open 24/7 every day of the year, we’re here when you need us.

• Plano location:

3960 Legacy Drive, Plano TX 75023 (on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road)

            Call us @ 469-392-4000

¹ https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/appendicitis/symptoms-causes

² https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/appendicitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369549

3 Things to Know About Your Gallbladder

A pulsing, throbbing pain on the right side of your abdomen has traditionally been considered an appendix issue, but if it is a little higher, right under the first rib, it actually may be a gallbladder attack. The gallbladder, a small, pear-shaped organ, sits quietly, tucked under the liver on your right side. When it becomes inflamed or when stones or sludge block the bile duct, it can cause a sharp and sudden pain in your abdomen, back or shoulder blades. Sometimes, it can cause you to feel nauseous or feverish. At Medco ER & Urgent Care of Plano, TX, we commonly diagnose and treat gallbladder disease and gallstones.

“Gallbladder inflammation, stones or sludge can cause severe pain and can become a very serious condition very quickly,” said Medco ER & Urgent Care’s Medical Director, Dr. Nasir Khan. “We can diagnose using ultrasound, CT scan and in-house blood tests and can get you the treatment you need right away.”

Causes of gallbladder disease

Gallbladder inflammation can be caused by a blocked bile duct. The gallbladder releases bile after you eat. It goes into a shared duct that the liver and pancreas also use. If stones that form in the gallbladder are released into the duct, they can get stuck there and block the flow of bile, causing the gallbladder to become inflamed and possibly even infected.¹

What causes gallstones? Gallstones are possibly caused by an excess build-up of cholesterol or bilirubin, a digestive fluid.²

While gallstones are the most common cause of gallbladder inflammation, some others include tumors, abscesses, congenital defects, cancer and infection.

Gallbladder disease is on the rise

Gallbladder disease is becoming more prevalent and the median age is lowering, as well. Since it is linked to obesity and diabetes, which are also on the rise, it stands to reason that gallbladder disease is also increasing.³

Gallbladder disease can be life-threatening

“A blocked bile duct is serious,” said Dr. Khan. “The pancreas uses the same duct and when it is blocked, it starts to deteriorate. When you are experiencing severe abdominal pain, it is important to come right away to Medco ER. We are here 24/7 to help you.”

Seek Immediate Medical Treatment

If you have any of these symptoms, come to Medco ER & Urgent Care right away:

• Intense abdominal pain or back pain or shoulder pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Dark urine
• Light colored stools
• Skin or eyes turning yellow or jaundiced

Get help fast at Medco ER & Urgent Care

Have you felt intermittent pain in the upper abdominal area? It is possible you have been experiencing biliary colic pain. This means you have possibly already experienced stones passing through the gallbladder and bile duct. If the pain increases or is ongoing, come in right away for quality medical care. Our ER offers almost no wait time and fast access to board-certified physicians. Open all day and night, we’re here when you need us.

• Plano location:

3960 Legacy Drive, Plano TX 75023 (on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road)

            Call us @ 469-392-4000

¹ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15265-gallbladder-swelling–inflammation-cholecystitis

² https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gallstones/symptoms-causes/syc-20354214

³ https://www.bmhvt.org/gallbladder-disease/

What to do When Your Child has a Foreign Object in the Body

Toddlers and children tend to put things in their mouths as they explore and learn about their world. Many parents have at least one story of discovering a penny in a diaper, and most others have swept something out of their baby’s mouth just in time. However, once in a while, a foreign object enters the body—either accidentally or on purpose—and the consequences are much more serious. When this happens, the physicians at Medco ER & Urgent Care are standing by with expert help available.

“We’ve seen young children who have inserted a foreign object into a nostril or ear canal or have swallowed a button battery, but we’ve also seen adults who have accidentally inhaled or swallowed something harmful, or have gotten a shard embedded in their eye,” said Medco ER & Urgent Care’s Regional Medical Director, Dr. Tariq Vora. “In any case, we know exactly what to do to help the patient.”

Dangers of Foreign Object in the Body

If a foreign object remains lodged inside the body, any of a number of dangerous things can occur. The body can go into shock, nearby organs can be damaged, infection can grow, and tissue can be permanently scarred. Occasionally, if left untreated, death can occur.

“It’s common sense to know that you need to have an emergency physician help with an impalement or other obvious foreign object penetration, but especially with little children, it takes a careful diagnosis to discover the problem if it is internal,” said Dr. Vora.

Symptoms of a Foreign Object Lodged Inside the Body

Throat:

If something is stuck in the esophagus, the patient may still be able to swallow, though there will be a burning pain. Even after the object has passed into the stomach, the esophagus may still hurt as if it was still lodged there. When the esophagus is completely blocked, the patient will be unable to swallow saliva and will drool and spit. The saliva may contain blood, which indicates trauma in the throat. There may be a vomit reflex with nothing coming up. The patient will have difficulty breathing. At Medco ER, we are able to resolve the obstruction in the esophagus at times with IV medication or refer to a GI specialist in more complicated situations.

Eye:

Easiest to recognize, a foreign body in the eye causes obvious symptoms. Watery eyes, runny nose and pain when blinking are all symptoms of something in the eye. A tiny sliver of glass, metal or wood in the eye can cause extreme pain. At Medco ER, we have the tools to identify and remove the foreign body from the eye using anesthetic eye drops with pain relief.

Stomach and Intestines:

If there is a foreign body in the stomach or intestines, the patient can experience cramps, pain and bloating. Abdominal cramps and area tenderness may be present. Nausea and vomiting may also occur. Young children may seem lethargic and stop eating. It is important to identify certain types of foreign objects (such as a battery) in the stomach, which require urgent medical attention.

Skin:

Also reasonably easy to diagnose, a foreign object embedded in the skin is often visible. A raised, painful lump that gathers fluid may be the first indication. If the area becomes red and pus is present, there is likely something in the skin. At Medco ER, we can oftentimes remove the foreign object from underneath the skin and treat the infection right away.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a foreign object in the body usually includes an imaging tool such as an X-ray, CT scan or endoscopy. Your physician will do a thorough diagnosis to discover the type and location of the offending object.

Treatment

“To remove a foreign object, surgery may be required,” said Dr. Vora. “An endoscopy procedure may be able to retrieve an esophagus or stomach invader without further surgical intervention. A foreign object in the rectum may be able to be removed manually. An object in the eye or skin is usually able to be removed with minimal difficulty.” Once the object is removed and the wound closed, further treatments such as IV fluids, antibiotics or a tetanus shot may be needed to help the body heal.

Fast Help at Medco ER & Urgent Care

When you suspect there’s something wrong with your child, or when someone has an encounter with a foreign object in his or her body, the emergency physicians at Medco ER & Urgent Care are standing by to offer top healthcare services. Our no-wait ER is open 24/7 for all your medical needs. Our highly trained staff respond quickly to determine the severity of each condition and to provide appropriate care to each patient.

• Plano: 3960 Legacy Drive on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road.

            Call us @ 469-392-4000.

Learn the Signs of a Stroke & Save a Life

A stroke is the interruption of blood flow to the brain, preventing oxygen and nutrients from reaching the brain and causing cells to die. According to the American Stroke Association (ASA), stroke is the #5 cause of death in the United States and is a leading cause of disability. Fast reaction to the first signs of a stroke can make not only the difference between life and death but can determine the amount of disability suffered from the event. The physicians at Medco ER & Urgent Care have compiled the information you need to know to quickly and properly respond to signs of a stroke.

“A stroke usually has noticeable symptoms,” said Medco ER & Urgent Care’s Regional Medical Director, Dr. Tariq Vora. “If you educate yourself and know what to look for, you can respond fast and call 911. EMS and emergency rooms are both set up with a stroke protocol to begin treatment as soon as possible.”

Signs of a Stroke

The 3 classic signs of a stroke can be remembered with the acronym F.A.S.T.

F – Face – one side of the face or mouth is drooping

A – Arms – ask him/her to raise both arms and see if one arm drifts down or is weak

S – Speech – stroke victims will have slurred speech or difficulty talking

T – Time – act quickly and call 911

In addition to these 3 classic signs of a stroke, the patient may experience the sudden onset of other symptoms. The important thing to note is these symptoms will come on suddenly. Here is the list of additional symptoms, according to ASA:

• Numbness – weakness or numbness of face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Confusion – confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Trouble seeing – vision problem in one or both eyes
• Trouble walking – dizziness, loss of coordination and balance
• Severe headache – sudden headache

Risk Facts for Stroke

Factors such as age, race, gender and family history may contribute to your risk of stroke, however many risk factors can be changed or controlled. Some of these factors include a chronic medical condition, overweight, diet rich in fats, smoking or sedentary lifestyle. These factors can contribute to the risk of stroke:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Atrial fibrillation
• Obesity
• Peripheral artery disease
• Carotid artery disease
• Smoking
• High blood cholesterol
• Inactive lifestyle
• Diet high in saturated fats, cholesterol, sodium
• High blood pressure
• Sickle cell anemia

Emergency Care Needed

“A stroke is an emergency and must be treated immediately,” said Dr. Vora. “Call 911 rather than drive the person to the ER since the EMS is equipped to begin treatment on a stroke immediately.”

Time is of utmost importance when it comes to a serious condition such as a stroke.

Kinds of Stroke

There are two main types of strokes:

1. Hemorrhagic: Caused by bleeding in the brain; occurs about 20% of the time.
2. Ischemic: Caused by a blood clot in the brain; more common, occurs about 80% of the time.

In the emergency setting, it is crucial to find out what type of stroke a person is experiencing. This could be quickly determined by a CT scan of the head.

At Medco ER, we are equipped with advanced imaging equipment and can perform the CT scan in less than 30 minutes from arrival. We also have close contacts with expert Radiologists who can provide a quick assessment of the CT images.

Furthermore, we are affiliated with local hospitals and specialized stroke centers and can quickly reach a Neurologist for an expert opinion to discuss the various types of treatment in a timely fashion.

Find help at Medco ER & Urgent Care

Patients suffering symptoms of a stroke can find fast access to quality medical care at Medco ER & Urgent Care. Our board-certified physicians have the years of experience needed to quickly identify and treat strokes. Our easy-access, freestanding ER has much of the same equipment found in a hospital-attached ER and we are fully ready to treat you 24/7 when the need arises.

• Plano: 3960 Legacy Drive on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road.

            Call us @ 469-392-4000.

5 Things about Keeping You & Your Kids Healthy that Facebook Won’t Tell You

We’ve all seen the memes to combat the coronavirus scare that’s paralyzing the world: “Keep Calm and Wash Your Hands,” and there is a lot of truth to that glib comment. Social media has unending anecdotal remarks to offer in the never-ending quest to keep yourself and your children healthy during this busy flu and coronavirus season. But what do the medical experts have to say?

We’ve compiled our 5 best suggestions for staying healthy and avoiding the flu or coronavirus.

1. Wash your hands the right way

Yes, everyone knows we need to wash our hands frequently during flu season, but it might be a surprise to hear that very few adults do it correctly. Begin with warm water and plenty of soap. Make sure to wash the backs of the hands and the fingernails as well. Wash for 20 seconds, or two rounds of “Happy Birthday.” Use a paper towel to turn off the faucet and to open the door.

Take time to remind and reteach your children how to wash the right way and quiz them on opportunities they have at school to wash and to use hand sanitizer. “Hand washing is the #1 way to get rid of coronavirus germs,” said Medco ER & Urgent Care’s Regional Medical Director, Dr. Tariq Vora.

2.  Cover up

When you sneeze or cough, use a tissue or cover your mouth with your elbow to block microscopic particles from becoming airborne. Wash or sanitize after sneezing. Some people have opted to wear medical masks in public to reduce the risk of exposure.

3. Avoid contact

Avoid touching your face – eyes, nose, mouth – to reduce the risk of receiving or transmitting germs. If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others. Don’t share eating utensils or glasses. Use your own towels, bedding and clothes and keep them clean. If you know someone who is sick, avoid that person until he or she has been fever-free for at least 24 hours.

4. Build up your immune system

Diets high in refined sugars and starches can weaken immune systems. Limit the amount of sugars and empty carbs you and your children are consuming and opt instead for extra vegetables and fruits at mealtimes and as snacks.

Consider adding foods rich in:

• Vitamin C – kiwis, lemons, Brussel sprouts, broccoli, strawberries, oranges
• Zinc – dairy, eggs, meat, whole grains, legumes, nuts

5. Develop clever ways to protect your hands from germs

Think through your day. Do you have to touch elevator buttons to get to work? Do you ride an escalator or travel a lot of stairs? Does your store or ATM have a touch screen? Do you share a keyboard with others? How many public doors do you have to open as you go about a typical work day? Do you look at a menu at the restaurant? Begin strategizing how to get through your day with less contact with public surfaces. Do the same for your child.

Gloves, tissues, paper towels, a pencil and other devices can provide a layer of protection as you navigate. A natural antibacterial spray for the air, such as tea tree oil and water, can help cut down airborne germs. And, of course, don’t forget the hand sanitizer for times you have to touch a public surface and don’t have a chance to wash.

When should I go to the ER?

A common variety of flu can be treated with rest, fluids and staying home. Over-the-counter fever reducers, cough suppressants and decongestants may provide some relief. However, secondary infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia can crop up and they require prompt medical attention. As a general rule, if you are still feeling bad after 3 days, seek medical help. If you are having difficulty breathing or have become too dehydrated, go to the nearest emergency room (ER) immediately.

With the coronavirus, symptoms can manifest anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure. If you think you or your child may have contracted this virus, go to the nearest ER immediately. “Because the coronavirus requires containment and medical supervision, it is important that you tell your doctor right away if you think you have contracted the virus,” said Dr. Vora. “Include any information about recent travels and any exposure you may have had.”

            Warning signs of coronavirus / COVID-19 include:

• Cough
• Fever
• Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties

Where can I find help for the flu or virus?

For fast medical help, Medco ER & Urgent Care is available in two convenient locations. We’re always open, day and night, even on holidays. Within minutes of arriving, you will be ushered into a private room and will receive prompt care from a board-certified physician.

• Plano: 3960 Legacy Drive on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road. Call us @ 469-392-4000.

• Frisco: 5600 Eldorado Parkway across from McDonald’s and Costco. Call us @ 469-392-4100.