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News and Updates

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

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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 thyroid

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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

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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,

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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

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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

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Do I have it, How Do I Get Diagnosed, and How Do I Manage It

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Do I Have it, How Do I Get Diagnosed, and How Do I Manage It?  Dr. Kathryn Dinh, a board-eligible Endocrinologist at Galen Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology According to the CDC, approximately 5 million women are currently affected by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormonal disorder that is primarily associated with a female having infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods. It is one of the most common causes of infertility in women and is a lifelong health condition. What causes PCOS? Although the exact cause of PCOS is not presently known, excess weight and a

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What is IBS, and how to know if you might have it?

Camille Sommer, M.D. Galen Digestive Health The symptoms of abdominal discomfort and changes in bowel habits are not uncommon, but people who experience frequent episodes may have what is known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a relatively common disorder that affects the gastrointestinal tract. Approximately 10-15% of Americans are affected by IBS. The signs and symptoms of IBS vary based on the individual. The most common signs and symptoms experienced are the following: Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating that is related to defecation Constipation, diarrhea, or bloating Changes in the caliber or consistency of the stool Changes in frequency

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It’s Time for Back-to-School Physicals

Laura Truelove, M.D. Galen North Pediatrics 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. Yearly physicals are a great time to have your child checked out to make sure they are growing and developing at the appropriate rate. What to expect during an annual wellness exam? During the wellness exam, your pediatrician will: Complete a physical exam, including height and weight. Check blood pressure, vision, and hearing. Ask about your child’s development (speech,

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Prostate Cancer Awareness

Did you know that prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men? Research suggests that this year alone, 248,530 men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. What are the symptoms of prostate cancer? Symptoms of prostate cancer can include any of the following: Difficulty starting urination Weak or interrupted flow of urine Frequent urination, especially at night Difficulty emptying the bladder completely Pain or burning during urination Blood in the urine or semen Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn’t go away Painful ejaculation Not all men may have symptoms for prostate

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