News and Updates

What is Hepatitis?

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

May 10, 2022

What is Sciatica?

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?

April 7, 2022

Not Getting Enough Sleep?

Reviewed by Melanie Blake, MD, MBA Did you know that sleep deprivation affects around one-third of American adults? The body experiences sleep deprivation due to not getting enough sleep. On average, most adults need between 7-9 hours of sleep. There are several types of sleep deprivation that an individual can experience. Acute sleep deprivation is usually a few days or less when a person has a significant reduction in their sleep time. Chronic sleep deprivation is diminished sleep that persists for three months or longer. Chronic sleep deficiency or insufficient sleep is ongoing sleep deprivation as well as poor sleep

March 11, 2022

It’s Prenatal Infection Awareness Month, and Here’s What You Need to Know.

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

February 7, 2022

Introducing Galen Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ridgeside!

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

January 10, 2022

What Is Thyroid Disease, and Do You Have It?

Reviewed by Kathryn Dinh, MD, Endocrinologist at Galen Center for Diabetes & Endocrinology Did you know that an estimated 20 million Americans are affected by some form of thyroid disease? Many of those individuals are completely unaware of their condition. Thyroid disease is the general term for a medical condition that prevents your thyroid from making the right number of hormones. Your body’s thyroid has the job of regulating the hormones that keep your body functioning normally. There are two main disorders associated with thyroid disease: Hyperthyroidism, and Hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the body is making too much of the

January 7, 2022

What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

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

December 2, 2021

What Is Anxiety & How to Manage It

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,

November 9, 2021

Are You Staying Hydrated?

Reviewed by Kate Norton, RN, MSN, FNP-C Part of staying healthy is making sure you are drinking enough water. Water makes up 50% to 70% of your body weight and is crucial to survival. The human body needs water to get rid of waste, keep your temperature level, lubricate your joints, and protect sensitive tissues. When the body does not have enough water, it becomes dehydrated. A common question asked to providers is, “How do I know if I am dehydrated?”. There are a few different signals your body will give you when you are dehydrated. Those signals are: Dry

October 26, 2021

Importance of Breast Cancer Screening

Reviewed by Dr. Manisha Patel, board-certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology Did you know that Breast Cancer is one of the most common cancers in women? Breast cancer starts in the breast when cells begin to grow out of control. These cancer cells can cause tumors which can be felt as lumps in the breast. While breast cancer occurs in women as they get older, if you are predisposed or have a family history, you may be at a greater risk for developing breast cancer. Along with regular breast self-exams, a routine mammogram is the most effective way to detect

October 1, 2021