News and Updates

As summer ends and school starts back, there are always several things to complete before your child’s first day. A back-to-school physical or an annual wellness exam is something you should add to your back-to-school checklist. It can be easy to put off back-to-school physicals with all you are doing to prepare your child to return to the classroom, but here is why you should make sure to check those physicals off your to-do list every year. With the changes that COVID-19 has brought to every school across the nation, getting your child checked for health matters puts you ahead

Reviewed by David Barker, MD, FACOG Gynecologists are specialists in women’s health. Typically, a girl’s first gynecology appointment should happen between 13 to 15 years old. What does a Gynecologist do on the first visit?  On the first visit, you will start off by talking to your doctor about your health and what to expect in a future appointment. This initial appointment does not include a pelvic exam. Your doctor will ask questions, and answering honestly, is the key to helping your doctor take care of your health. There may be a few questions that you may find uncomfortable to

According to The World Health Organization (WHO), about 354 million people around the world are currently living with chronic hepatitis B and C. What is hepatitis? Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. It is commonly caused by a viral infection, although there are other possible causes of hepatitis such as heavy alcohol use, toxins, certain medications, and some diseases.  How many types of hepatitis are there and what are their symptoms?  There are five main types of hepatitis. Each type can have a different cause and different symptoms.  Hepatitis A is the result of an infection with the hepatitis A

Did you know about 40% of people suffer from sciatica in their lifetime, and it is one of the most common types of back pain?

Reviewed by David Barker, MD, FACOG, at Galen Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ridgeside   February is prenatal infection prevention month, and the focus of prenatal infection prevention month is to promote awareness for infections transferred from mother to baby. Prenatal infections can include both bacterial and viral illnesses, which can be transmitted before, during, or after a pregnancy. It is important to always make sure you are taking the right steps to keep your baby and yourself safe.   Here are ten tips to promote a safe and healthy pregnancy. Maintain Good Hygiene: Be diligent about washing your hands when being around

Introducing Galen Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ridgeside! Galen Medical Group is proud to announce that OB/GYN Centre of Excellence is joining the Galen Family. Starting January 17, 2021, OB/GYN Centre of Excellence will be Galen Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ridgeside. Located in downtown Chattanooga at 2341 McCallie Ave, Suite 302, Dr. David Barker and Dr. Scott Harnsberger have been caring for women in the Chattanooga area for over 20 years. In addition to Dr. Barker and Dr. Harnsberger, Galen Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ridgeside also includes the following providers:  Erica Angelino, MPAS, PA-C Karen Tinsley, MSN, FNP-BC Lauren Barlew, MSN, WHNP-BC  The providers at

Reviewed by Donald Hetzel, M.D., Board-Certified Gastroenterologist at Galen Digestive Health Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common ailment that affects about 20% of the U.S. population. It can occur in anyone at any age. It is a condition where your stomach acid persistently flows back up into your esophagus and can irritate the lining. While acid reflux can happen to everyone at some point, GERD can be persistent. GERD can range from mild acid reflux that occurs a few times a week or moderate to severe acid reflux that occurs daily.   Causes of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Certain factors increase

Reviewed by Heather Dunn, FNP-C   According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America approximately 40 million adults are affected by anxiety disorders. Anxiety is a feeling of worry, unease, or fear about something. Occasional anxiety is a normal part of life and doesn’t last long. However, an anxiety disorder is when anxiety lasts for long periods of time and can interfere with your day-to-day life. There are many different types of anxiety disorders.   Individuals who suffer from anxiety disorders usually have recurring intrusive thoughts or concerns and constant worry. They might also show physical symptoms such as sweating,