Author: VNA Health Care Communications

Anxiety and depression are the two most common forms of mental health issues affecting people today. An estimated 18.1% of the adult population or 43.6 million people in the United States suffer from mental illnesses. In any given year, 21 million adults have at least one depressive episode while about 14.8 million adults in the country suffer from depression with severe impairment.

Often, physicians or nurse practitioners at a family practice are the first to diagnose, identify and begin treatment for depression, stress, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. The most common type of referral in case of anxiety and depression is mental health counseling. Unfortunately, less than 50% of people suffering from mental illnesses in 2021 received any mental health care.

This post will highlight the mental and physical health benefits of visiting a family practice provider if you are suffering from an anxiety disorder, chronic stress, high blood pressure, or wish to learn how to deal with stress and anxiety of everyday life.

Do You Need a Doctor to Deal with Stress, Anxiety, or Depression?

The majority of people don’t realize that help is available when they are feeling constantly low or stressed out. In many cases, a younger person that experiences stress or depression may be more willing to get help, while people in the older age groups are sometimes reluctant to address their concerns because of the stigma and misunderstanding associated with depression.

Having bad days or weeks and struggling in response to a setback is perfectly normal. However, you should seek help if feelings of depression last for more than a week. This is even more important if you have repetitive thoughts of suicide or self-harm. You should immediately speak with a doctor and seek help.

There are unique symptoms with every mental illness. Moreover, there are certain common symptoms that indicate something might be wrong. These may include:

• Having negative thoughts about yourself.
• Loss of appetite.
• Moodiness or irritability.
• Feeling anxiety or worry frequently.
• Having trouble concentrating.
• Finding everyday activities difficult, such as going to work or getting out of bed.
• Not enjoying life or activities that you used to like.
• Sleeping too much or having trouble sleeping.
• Hearing or seeing things that aren’t there.

You should consider making an appointment with your family doctor or nurse practitioner if you noticed any of these symptoms or other changes over the last few weeks.

What Can a Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner Do for You?

You may feel more comfortable speaking with your healthcare provider than a complete stranger about any emotional or mental problems. A family practitioner can help you with symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. They can be beneficial in the following ways:

• Your family doctor or primary care physician or nurse practitioner may ask questions about your feelings and thoughts that can shed light on what you are going through.
• They will be able to reassure you that you are not just unhappy, but have a medical issue that they can help you address.
• They will be able to help you with counseling options and other available resources and support.
• They may offer you prescription drugs if they think it is appropriate.
• They may guide you about muscle tension relaxation techniques, stress management, deep breathing techniques, and how to deal with stress responses.
• They will be able to recommend lifestyle changes like a healthy diet or more social interaction for improving your mental health.
• Family practice providers can refer patients to specialists if they think it would be more helpful.
• They will see you at follow-ups to monitor how you are responding to treatment.

Getting help is as easy as seeing your primary care provider. You don’t need to suffer the symptoms or struggle with mental or physical health problems. There are simple and healthy ways available to manage stress, build a positive attitude, and even achieve disease control over a serious illness in some cases.

Reasons to Consult at a Family Practice Provider Before Visiting a Therapist

Most mental and emotional issues have an underlying cause. It is important to be able to speak with someone you can trust when you feel stressed. You should not overlook a family practice when dealing with anxiety, stress, depression or any other mental health concern for the following reasons:

1. General physicians have experience dealing with mental disorders

Family practice providers are accustomed to being the first line of defense against certain mental health conditions, such as depression, stress, and anxiety. In fact, all primary care physicians and nurse practitioners have training for dealing with the symptoms of depression. The provider will refer you to a therapist or psychiatrist if your symptoms are severe.

2. Your family doctor knows your history

You may be able to express your emotions easier with a family doctor or nurse practitioner you know than with a new mental health provider. The fact that you have probably visited your healthcare provider at least a few times will give you a certain level of comfort to discuss your problems more openly. You would not have to waste a few sessions in finding the right mental health provider if you are already comfortable speaking with your regular healthcare provider.

Family doctors and nurse practitioners also have the added benefit of already knowing your medical history. They would know whether there is any heart condition or diabetes coexisting with depression. They would also be aware of other things that could affect your condition, such as a history of substance abuse.

3. They are familiar with your drug interactions and medications

Your family practice provider is most likely aware of the medications you are taking. They would know which drugs contribute to your anxiety and depression. Certain medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, can cause depression. Illicit drugs, alcohol, and ill-timed caffeine can cause chemical changes in the body that contribute to despair, depression, anxiety, and stress.

A family practice provider will be able to help you make the necessary lifestyle changes and provide useful techniques since they would have a more in-depth perspective.

4. They are aware of your family dynamics

Family practice doctors and nurse practitioners have a better understanding of your family dynamic compared to a new physician you just met. In most cases, patients are not aware of the problem and how the family contributes to it. Speaking to your healthcare provider will be able to help you attain fresh perspectives on your issues.

Depression usually affects everyone within a family, especially if it is following a major loss or setback. There are multiple players involved and a complex mix of emotions. A family practice doctor or nurse practitioner may be better equipped for intervening in such situations.

5. Family doctors have multiple tools to address problems

If your family practice provider is unable to help you with your problem, they would be able to suggest other options. They may link you with support groups or refer you to another provider. They may also suggest lifestyle changes and encourage you to follow a balanced diet, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and maintain healthy physical activity as part of your treatment and recovery process.

Steps to Take Before Seeking Help

Having problems with mental health can affect you in multiple ways. It may make everything seem more difficult. You may have trouble speaking to your family or doctor to seek help. Mental conditions can also affect concentration and memory. This can make it difficult to remember what your healthcare provider told you.

You may find yourself slipping at your school or job responsibilities. This is why you should always write things down before you go to a doctor. This will ensure that you don’t forget to discuss anything during your appointment. You can also consider bringing a friend or family to the consultation.

It’s vital to remember that you may need to take certain steps. You would have to be open to seeking help. Your primary care provider can help you choose medications if applicable and other techniques for managing and improving your mental health for a safe recovery.

Visit VNA Health Care for a Confidential Consultation

Family practice doctors are experienced in treating anxiety, depression, stress, and other types of emotional distress. The qualified team at VNA Health Care understands what you or your loved one is going through. Schedule an appointment with one of our experienced physicians or nurse practitioners today. Give us a call at (630) 892-4355 or (847) 717-6455 or fill out this online appointment form.

On Thursday, July 21st, VNA was joined by various members of the local community and government including State Representative Dagmara Avelar, 85th District, State Representative Stephanie Kifowit, 84th District, State Senator Cristina Castro, 22nd District, City of Aurora, Deputy Mayor Guillermo Trujillo, City of Aurora Alderman Juany Garza, Ward 2, Kane County Board Chairman, Corinne Pierog, Kane County Board Member Mavis Bates, District 4, Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley, The Dunham Fund, Kane County Health Department, NAMI DuPage, National Association of Community Health Centers, Rush Copley Medical Center, The Neighbor Project, United Way of Metro Chicago, INC Board NFP, and Fox Valley United Way to celebrate its 20th year as a Federally Qualified Health Center! Thank you to everyone who has supported VNA Health Care in of providing over a century of healthcare services to the underserved! We look forward to continuing to grow in the communities we serve.

Click below to watch our “Growing for Tomorrow” video.

 

As a parent, raising a teenager is not an easy task. They can be unpredictable, with frequent mood swings, restless behavior, and a general attitude of rebellion towards adults. However, the teenage years are also a critical phase for your children’s health and development.

Attitudes and habits that emerge during this age often stay with a person throughout their life. With so much change happening in their bodies, it is vital that teenagers maintain a healthy lifestyle and adopt good habits. Poor teenage health practices can make dealing with them even more difficult than normal.

In this post, we will highlight some important things you can do as a parent to ensure that your teen stays safe and healthy. If you’d like further information, you can always speak with your family doctor or a health professional with experience in family pediatrics and adolescent care. A pediatrician from VNA Health Care would be happy to address any concerns you might have.

Here are some suggestions to address child and teenage health issues:

Ensure Timely Vaccinations

Having your teenager vaccinated is probably the most straightforward thing you can do for the long-term health of your teen. There are several types of vaccinations available to children between the ages 13–19.

Flu shots should be taken annually to prevent a severe outbreak of the disease during flu season. Meningococcal disease is an infection of the lining around the brain. Teens can take two vaccines at ages 11 and 16 to protect against this deadly disease.

Another notable vaccine with lifetime benefits is the HPV vaccine. Nearly 85% of all Americans will catch HPV during their lifetime. If left unvaccinated, your teen could carry the risk of developing certain cancers in the future that are caused by strains of the HPV virus. For example, the CDC reports that 9 out of 10 cases of cervical cancer are caused by the HPV virus. The HPV vaccine is considered effective in lowering the risk.

If your teen has missed any of the early childhood vaccinations, there is still time. You can catch them up on shots of tetanus, diphtheria, polio, hepatitis, chickenpox, and MMR vaccines. These will protect your teen against a wide range of severe diseases. You may visit one of the qualified pediatric care providers or family physicians if you are uncertain about vaccinations for your teen.

Annual Physical Exams

Teens, both boys and girls, can benefit immensely from annual visits to their primary care doctor. Schools usually require sports/school physicals in the sixth and ninth grade. But as a parent, you must encourage teens to take their annual doctor visits seriously. You can do this by making them an appointment and also by making appointments for yourself so that they can see that it is important.

Keeping up with preventive care helps ensure that your medical history includes this too and also helps your family doctor ensure that health issues are detected early and any necessary treatment is started right away. With the rising cancer rates, particularly among younger people, visits to family doctors or pediatricians and screening tests are becoming more important than ever.

Encourage an Active Lifestyle

Most doctors would recommend that teens (and other family members too) get a minimum of one hour of physical activity each day. Helping your child meet this quota may not be an easy task, but there are several ways to do it without too much argument.

If they have any interest in sports, having your teen join a school team is an easy solution. You may also want to consider capping the amount of time they can spend in front of TV, mobile, and computer screens. Excessive use of digital screens is a common cause of less activity among teens and may adversely affect their health.

Encouraging them to do yard work and other chores, or picking up a physically demanding hobby like swimming or bike riding could also prove beneficial. For the child’s well-being, you can also plan activities for the whole family that gets them outdoors more often.

Discourage Smoking or Vaping

Tobacco smoking is one of the worst habits someone can pick up at a young age. Smoking is incredibly addictive – after a few years, it can be very hard to quit. It is also responsible for millions of deaths around the world, through cancer, heart disease, and other conditions.

While the popularity of cigarette smoking is steadily going downhill, vaping has taken its place, especially among teens. While vaping is less dangerous than cigarettes in some ways, it is not at all safe. Nicotine is still a poison and vaping brings numerous other chemicals into the body.

E-cigarettes have been linked to severe lung diseases. Additionally, the human brain continues to grow until the age of 25. Nicotine can slow down or stunt brain development if a person starts smoking or vaping it at an early age. These are all reasons enough to discourage teens from smoking/vaping.

Support a Healthy Diet and Routine

This is often easier said than done in modern family life, but teen bodies require a lot of nutrition. Apart from having regular home-cooked meals, try to make sure that they have access to healthy snacks. Limit the consumption of junk food, carbonated sodas, and sweet beverages.

Unhealthy diets can lead to heart disease and diabetes. Teens who become obese are at higher risk retaining the excess weight well into their adult years. Encourage your kids to eat more vegetables, fresh fruits, and fat-free/dairy-free foods.

Sleep is another vital element of lasting good health. While most adults can get away with 7 hours of sleep per day, teens need a lot more – along the lines of 9–10 hours. Lack of sleep can lead to poor diet, obesity, depression, and other conditions

Watch Out for Signs of Drug Habit

The teenage years are when many people experiment with recreational drugs. It can lead to a fatal downward spiral into substances like heroin, cocaine, meth, ecstasy, and LSD.

Drug addiction can destroy a person’s life if left unchecked. Be on the lookout for tell-tale signs of drug abuse. It can include excessive drowsiness, sleeping more often, lack of interest in activities/hobbies they enjoyed in the past, new friend groups, and other physical symptoms like red eyes, tremors, etc.

Decisive and early intervention is essential whenever drug abuse is involved. Consider approaching a family pediatrics health professional if your teen is showing the common signs of substance abuse. VNA Health Care offers Medication-Assisted Treatment for substance use disorders.

Dealing with Sexual Activity

It is natural and inevitable for teens to have a curiosity towards sex. One approach would be to encourage your teen to choose abstinence and avoid sex until they are old enough.

However, if that doesn’t seem plausible, try to speak openly with your teen. Sharing your values about family, sex, and marriage can often prove to be very effective as long as it involves honest and open conversation. The same also goes for your stance on birth control methods.  Try to educate your teenager about the potential physical and emotional risks of early, unprotected sex.

Pay Attention to Your Teen’s Physical and Mental Health

Addressing your child’s physical, emotional, and social health needs is vital for their overall development during their teenage years. If you have trouble connecting and communicating with your teenager, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help.

Anxiety and depression are a significant concern for youngsters of this age. If you see any potential warning signs of mental stress or depression, make sure to seek the guidance of a mental health specialist.

VNA Health Care is here for you and your teenage children. You can find help through our mental and behavioral health services for kids and teenagers.

We also offer annual physicals, vaccinations, health screenings, counseling, and other high-quality, low-cost health services to families in the Chicago suburban community. We are a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate services to our patients, both parents and children.

We accept all insurance plans and offer low-cost or free services to eligible patients who are uninsured. If you have any concerns about your teenager’s health or well-being, book an appointment with us today. One of our family pediatrics or family practice providers can answer any urgent or non-urgent questions and help your family stay healthy.

Did you know that more than 90% of processed and packaged foods contain high-fructose corn syrup? Corn syrup is similar to regular sugar, but it’s cheaper, which makes it a favorite among food manufacturers.

Foods like breakfast cereals, breads, frozen junk foods, salad dressing, sauces, sweetened yogurt, canned foods, soft drinks, and your favorite fast food sandwich or burger all have significantly high amounts of hidden sugar in them, in the form of corn syrup.

These are just a few examples of foods with corn syrup. Almost every packaged, ready-to-eat food item you buy is likely to have corn syrup or similar sugar in it. Here’s a fact that might surprise many people: each tablespoon of corn syrup has about 16 grams of sugar in it. And we haven’t started talking about other types of hidden sugars in foods yet.

How Much Sugar Are You Consuming?

According to research, Americans today are consuming 30% more sugar than we did 30 years ago. To say that sugar has become a problem would be an understatement and one of the reasons that has made diabetes such an issue.

Part of the problem is that sometimes, you don’t even realize you’re consuming that much sugar. People tend to think that since a particular food doesn’t taste sweet, it doesn’t have any sugar in it. That’s completely false.

A seemingly healthy Mediterranean Chicken Salad at an average fast food joint has 18 grams of sugar per serving. The suggested added sugar limit, according to the American Health Association is 36 grams for men and 24 grams for women.

We all know that too much added sugar is bad for our health. In addition to cavities, it can also leads to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, cognitive issues, and even cancer. Even if you want to reduce your sugar consumption, there are about 60 compounds used in beverages and foods that are a form of sugar but aren’t identified as such.

These artificial compounds have all the adverse health effects of sugar, however, because of their names, you may end up consuming them in far greater quantities since you don’t know they are just added sugar. If you want to become more aware, take a look at the following list of compounds that are essentially sugar:

• Agave nectar
• Barley malt
• Barbados sugar
• Buttered syrup
• Beet sugar
• Brown rice syrup
• Blackstrap molasses
• Brown sugar
• Cane sugar
• Cane juice crystals
• Caramel
• Castor sugar
• Carob syrup
• Confectioner’s sugar
• Corn syrup solids
• Corn syrup
• Crystalline fructose
• Date sugar
• Dextran
• Demerara sugar
• Dextrose
• Diastatic malt
• Evaporated cane juice
• Ethyl maltol
• Florida crystals
• Fruit juice
• Fructose
• Glucose
• Galactose
• Glucose solids
• Golden syrup
• Golden sugar
• Grape sugar
• Honey
• High-fructose corn syrup
• Invert sugar
• Icing sugar
• Lactose
• Maltose
• Malt syrup
• Maple syrup
• Muscovado sugar
• Molasses
• Organic raw sugar
• Panocha
• Refiner’s syrup
• Raw sugar
• Rice syrup
• Sucrose
• Sorghum syrup
• Turbinado sugar
• Treacle
• Yellow sugar

Watch out for these sugar compounds on food labels when buying products and do your best to avoid them. You’ll expect to find added sugars in pies and chocolates, but don’t be surprised to find your favorite “healthy pasta sauce” or barbecue sauce that also contains 12 or more grams of sugar per tablespoon.

How Sugar Affects Your Teeth

Your mouth is home to both good and bad bacteria. When the harmful bacteria in your mouth get exposed to sugar content, they produce acid that gradually starts damaging your teeth. When you consume limited amounts of sugar, your saliva will fight back and neutralize the acidic damage.

However, the saliva will fail to protect your teeth if you are regularly eating sugar in large quantities. Continued acid generation from the bacteria will result in the loss of minerals that are a part of your tooth enamel (which is the outer layer protecting your teeth). Cavity formation will occur as the acid eventually damages the enamel.

Harmful Bacteria in the Mouth Thrive on Sugar

Bad bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar. Excessive sugar consumption will cause the formation of a sticky and hard material called plaque on your teeth. During your routine teeth cleanings, dentists typically remove the plaque from the teeth. When the plaque deposits harden, they won’t be removed simply by brushing. The dental plaque will eventually prove destructive for your tooth enamel.

It should be noted that sugar not only promotes enamel-destroying acids, but also attracts and invites harmful bacteria to make their home in your gum tissue. This eventually causes gum disease called gingivitis, which may gradually deteriorate into periodontal disease if left untreated. Gingivitis and periodontal disease cause gum recession, which happens when the gum shrinks away from the tooth which contributes to tooth loss over time.

Solid and Liquid Sugary Foods Can Damage Your Teeth

Solid foods with a high content of processed sugar will usually leave a stubborn residue that sticks to your teeth. Your saliva is unable to combat this residue. Proper oral hygiene and periodic dental cleanings are vital to eliminate this residue so that it does not cause lasting damage to your teeth. In many cases, excess consumption of solid sugary foods constantly exposes the mouth to the acidic effects that may eventually lead to tooth decay.

You may be surprised to know that sugary beverages are often more damaging to your tooth enamel than solid foods with processed sugars. One of the key ingredients in sugary drinks is corn syrup with high fructose, which creates an invisible film of sticky toxins around your teeth and gum tissue. Bad bacteria thrive on this film, leading to the generation of dissolving acids that ultimately cause tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Have you ever noticed how sweet your soda may taste once it goes flat and loses it’s fizz – that is because it is usually full of sugar or sugar substitutes.

Is All Sugar Bad?

Whenever our doctors start talking about the negative impact of sugar on teeth and overall health, there is always at least one person who asks the much-expected question – “if sugar is so bad, how come you want us to eat fruits?”

Here’s why: the health risks come from free sugars and not fruits. And there is a big difference between natural and added sugars.

Sugar in food and drinks comes from sugar molecules that are classified as disaccharides (complex structures like lactose and sucrose) and monosaccharides (single molecules like fructose and glucose).

Fruits contain naturally-occurring sugars, which are a mix of glucose, fructose, and sucrose. Fructose is only harmful when you consume it in excess amounts, i.e., if you are eating 5–10 full-size plates of fresh fruits every day. In other words, it is almost impossible to consume too much fructose (natural sugars) by eating a piece of fresh fruit or two.

On the other hand, you can – and you probably do – consume too much sugar content (free sugars) from processed foods.

“Free sugars” refers to any disaccharides and monosaccharides that have been added to foods by the manufacturer. It also includes natural sugar that are already present in dried fruit, fresh fruits, honey, fruit juices, etc.

Multiple studies have established that the health risks from sugars, like unhealthy weight gain and tooth decay, are related to consuming too much free sugar in the diet – not from eating naturally occurring sugar present in healthy food options like fruits, vegetables, or milk.

This is why it’s recommended that no more than 10% of your daily calorie intake come from free sugars, especially if your goal is to lose weight. This translates to about 50 grams of sugar or one can of a soft drink.

Also, keep in mind that beverages that contain high amounts of free sugars, such as sports drinks, energy drinks, and other sugary drinks are usually high in calories with little to no nutritional value. If you don’t like eating fresh fruits, you may be tempted to drink a glass of fruit juice every day, but remember, it’s not the same.

Plus, drinking sugary drinks is way more harmful for your health than eating sugary foods. One Learn about the dangers of hidden sugars in food and how it can affect your oral health. Get tips on how to protect your teeth from the damage sugar can cause.study reported that drinking one or two sugar-filled beverages every day was linked to a 31% higher risk of cavities in the teeth. Most sodas and sweet beverages contain high fructose corn syrup which coats the mouth in a sticky film that becomes the breeding ground for bad bacteria.

Schedule a Dental Visit Today

At VNA Health Care, we provide family dentistry services to help keep your loved ones’ smiles as healthy and beautiful as possible. We firmly believe in preventive care and offer everything from routine cleanings and x-rays to cavity fillings and oral cancer screenings. In order to stay on top of your oral health, eat foods that are whole and unprocessed, and get a dental checkup every 6 months.

We provide care for everyone – Medicaid, Medicare, insured, and uninsured. We never turn away a patient in need. We are the largest community healthcare provider in suburban Chicago based on the number of people we serve and we have a focus on primary and specialty care for all.

To schedule an appointment at any of our 12 centers in the Chicago suburban area, please call us at (630) 892-4355 or contact us online.

Humans are highly social. People who have healthy relationships and friendships have a better chance of leading happy and healthy lives. Research has shown that good social connections can improve both your body and mind.

Individuals in a healthy and strong relationship typically have lower levels of depression and anxiety. Such relationships also boost self-esteem and confidence. Physical benefits can include a stronger immune system, better healing, and even a longer life.

A romantic relationship can spark in an instant – people seem to fall in love all the time. However, staying in love is much more difficult – it takes work to keep romantic partnerships stable and beneficial. To understand how to nurture a healthy relationship, we first need to understand what it is:

Hallmarks of a Healthy Relationship

There is no single definition of what a healthy relationship looks like – it can vary widely depending on your personality, age, life situation, and many other factors. But in general, all healthy relationships have the following hallmarks:

Good Communication

Couples who feel comfortable expressing their opinions about many issues – both personal, general, and political – have a better chance of staying together. Open communication about critical matters like money, mental health, stress, and the things a person values is essential.

In most stable relationships, partners talk frankly and frequently about things that happen in their daily lives. Ideally, you want the conversation to include the good and bad things. For instance, if there is any stress at work, you should be able to talk about it to your partner. Just speaking with your partner may help you manage stress and while bringing you and your partner closer.

Independence

Being in a relationship means you have to rely on the other person in many matters. It should not, however, be at the cost of anyone’s independence. In healthy relationships, there is a balance between leaning on your partner and having the freedom to be yourself, making your own decisions.

Things turn toxic when one person is trying to manipulate or force their will on their partner. This is the opposite of a healthy relationship. Good relationships are built on mutual respect – not fear or deceit.

Trust

Lack of trust is a common cause of the disintegration of relationships between couples. Trust means that you don’t worry about your partner cheating on you when you are not around. It also means you can rely on them to give you support and a space to be yourself. Trust makes you feel safe, knowing that your partner will not hurt you, either emotionally or physically.

When we fall in love, we often tend to blindly trust the person we love. While it is easy to gain someone’s trust in this way, it is fragile – all it takes is one mistake to lose it. And regaining it can often take years of hard work and perseverance.

Personal Space

Couples in a healthy romantic relationship don’t have to spend every hour of the day together. Partners should spend time together on hobbies and shared interests, but people also need some alone time to do their own thing.

It is not an easy balance to maintain, especially when you have many other commitments that take up your time. As long as people make an effort to spend some quality time together (and alone for themselves), it can work out fine.

Physical Intimacy

Physically connecting with your partner is an important part of a romantic relationship. But individuals often have different levels of interest in sex. Couples who are honest with each other about their demands and desires have a better chance at a satisfactory sex life.

The importance of consent is critical. No one should feel forced to perform any acts they are not comfortable with at any time. If only one person is gaining pleasure out of sexual activity, there is something fundamentally wrong. Talk to your physician or nurse practitioner if you are experiencing pain from intimacy.

Conflict Resolution

All couples have arguments and fights. In fact, if a couple does not have any arguments or differences of opinion, it is often not a good sign. Couples who avoid conflict and not sharing their own opinions can be setting themselves up for a future problem – sooner or later, things will come to boiling point.

In a good relationship, couples manage to resolve things amicably through words, without letting things get physical or violent. They also don’t leave any lingering feelings of anger or resentment. This is the best sign of a healthy relationship.

Warning Signs of Unhealthy Relationships

A good relationship should help you stay strong and capable of facing any life challenges that come your way. It should not be an arrangement that benefits one partner more than the other. The following are some key characteristics of a toxic or abusive relationship:

• One partner is always trying to control the other or forcing changes on them.
• One partner does not show any respect for the other person’s boundaries.
• Couples don’t spend any quality time together doing things they both enjoy.
• One person says hurtful or insensitive things about their partner to others.
• One partner is afraid to communicate openly about their feelings.
• The relationship feels unequal or unfair.

7 Tips to Promote a Safe & Healthy Relationship

Keep Realistic Expectations

People often have a perfect image of what they expect their partner to be. While you should have standards of how you are treated, you should also recognize that no one is perfect. Keep your expectations grounded and let your partner know what you need from them in the early stages of your relationship.

Avoid Jumping to Conclusions

If something unusual or bad happens, don’t jump to conclusions and start assigning blame. Ask your partner to explain their side of the story and listen with an open mind. Expecting the worst can backfire spectacularly if you are wrong. It shows that you have very little trust in your partner.

Honor Promises and Commitments

Breaking your word is the fastest way to lose trust and respect. If you make a promise, make every effort to honor it. Complete your responsibilities and follow through on all plans to show your partner that you are dependable. And you should expect the same from the other person as well.

Consider Family Planning

Having kids together is a huge step – emotionally, physically, and financially. Ensure that both of you are on the same page about having children. An unplanned pregnancy can often unravel a relationship and derail financial stability. You can use family planning services to help you have more control over when and how you grow your family.

Avoid Infidelity/Promiscuity

If you are not satisfied with your sex life, try talking to your partner about it honestly. Sleeping with others in secret will not solve problems. Promiscuity will not keep a monogamous relationship healthy. If you cannot commit to a relationship sexually, it is better to be open about it with your partner. Setting healthy boundaries is essential for keeping any relationship steady.

Seek Outside Advice

Romantic relationships can sometimes cloud our judgment. When you are uncertain about a new or prospective romantic partner, you may need some outside help in figuring things out. This could be a family member or close friend – anyone who you can trust to give good advice. If you feel overwhelmed and don’t have anyone to talk to, you can also consider going to a mental health professional.

Quit Abusive Relationships

There is no excuse for domestic violence or other kinds of abusive behavior in any relationship. If you experience any such traumatic events, get help as soon as possible. It is important to realize that an unhealthy relationship is sometimes beyond repair. In such situations, focus entirely on your safety and make objective choices.

Seek Professional Help from VNA Health Care

A trusted name in high-quality, affordable health care, VNA Health Care serves underserved communities in the Chicago suburban area. We have several couple-oriented services, including mental behavioral health specialists, family planning, counseling for birth control, and prevention of STI through tests/treatment. You can also talk in confidence to your provider about any issues that you are experiencing. Book an appointment with our specialists online or call (630) 892-4355.

If you’ve never had a mammogram before, it’s normal to have questions or feel a little unsure about what to expect. This guide is designed to walk you through what your first mammogram appointment is like at VNA Health Care, from preparation to what happens during the exam.

A mammogram is a breast imaging exam that helps detect early signs of breast cancer, often before you can feel any changes. If you want to learn more about the procedure, visit our mammography page.

How to Prepare For a Mammogram

On the day of your mammogram, try to wear a two-piece outfit so it’s easy to undress from the waist up. Avoid using deodorant, lotion, powder, or perfume on your underarms or breasts, as these products can interfere with the images. If you have had prior mammograms at another clinic, let your provider know so those records can be requested if needed.

If you are nervous or have concerns, don’t hesitate to bring them up with your provider ahead of time. The VNA team is here to support you, answer your questions, and help you feel comfortable and prepared every step of the way.

What to Expect From Your Mammogram

When you arrive for your appointment, a trained imaging professional will guide you through each step and explain what they are doing along the way.

During Your Mammogram

During the exam, your breast will be placed on the mammogram machine and gently compressed for a few seconds while images are taken. This compression helps create clear pictures so even small changes in breast tissue can be seen. You will be asked to hold still briefly, and the process will be repeated to capture images from different angles. The staff will make sure you are positioned comfortably and will adjust as needed.

After Your Mammogram

After your mammogram, you can return to your normal activities right away. A radiologist will review the images and share the results with your VNA provider. Your provider will then contact you to explain the results and discuss any next steps, if needed. If additional imaging is recommended, the VNA team will help guide you through what comes next.

Common Questions About The Mammogram Procedure

How Long Does A Mammogram Take?

A mammogram is a fairly quick exam. The imaging itself usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This includes positioning, taking images of each breast, and making sure the pictures are clear. You may spend a little extra time checking in or changing before the exam, but most appointments are completed in under 30 minutes.

Does a Mammogram Hurt?

A mammogram is not usually painful, but some people do feel brief discomfort during the exam. You may feel pressure when your breast is gently compressed to take clear images. This pressure only lasts a few seconds and is an important part of getting accurate results.
In exceptional cases, a woman may experience pain during a mammogram. This is often due to one of the following factors:

• The size and shape of the breasts
• How firmly they need to be pressed
• Menstruation – breasts are often more sensitive during periods
• If mammography is done after breast surgery or breast biopsy
• If you are taking blood-thinning medication

If you are in pain or feel uncomfortable, let the imaging staff know. They can adjust your positioning to help make the exam as comfortable as possible. You don’t experience any continued pain or discomfort once the procedure is completed.

Are There Any Side Effects or Risks From Mammograms?

Mammograms are very safe. Some people worry about radiation exposure, but mammograms use a very low dose of radiation (much less than many other imaging tests). For most women, the benefits of early cancer detection far outweigh this minimal exposure.

Breast Ultrasound vs Mammogram

Mammograms and breast ultrasounds are both imaging tests used to look at breast tissue, but they serve different purposes and are often used together.

A mammogram is the primary screening tool for breast cancer. It uses low-dose X-rays to detect changes in breast tissue, including lumps or calcifications, before they can be felt. Mammograms are recommended regularly for breast cancer screening, even if you do not have symptoms.

A breast ultrasound uses sound waves instead of X-rays. It is not typically used as a screening test on its own, but it may be ordered if a mammogram shows an area that needs a closer look, or if you have dense breast tissue. Ultrasound can help providers determine whether a lump is solid or fluid-filled.

Your VNA provider will decide which test you need based on your age, breast tissue, symptoms, and mammogram results. In some cases, both tests are used together to give a clearer picture and ensure you receive the most accurate care.

Scheduling a Mammogram in Aurora, IL

At VNA Health Care, mammograms are scheduled through your primary care provider or women’s health provider. If you are interested in a mammogram, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your doctor or Nurse Practitioner. During that visit, they will review your health history, answer any questions, and place the order for your mammogram. This service is only available at our Highland Avenue location in Aurora.

Do You Offer Free Mammograms in Aurora, IL?

VNA Health Care offers free mammograms to eligible patients through the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP). This program is available to patients in DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Kankakee, and Will counties.
To qualify for a free mammogram through IBCCP, you must:

• Be an Illinois resident
• Have no health insurance
• Be between the ages of 35 and 64

Some VNA patients may also qualify for free or low-cost mammograms through Illinois Medicaid, even if they are not currently enrolled. If you need help applying for Medicaid, the VNA benefits assistance team can help. Call VNA Health Care to get help and learn which programs you may qualify for.

Funding provided in whole or in part by the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program

A woman’s body is incredibly strong and resilient. Several unique organ systems make a woman capable of giving birth to another human being and providing it with vital nourishment. But these complex organ systems are also vulnerable to a number of disorders and diseases.

While both men and women can benefit greatly from annual health check-ups, the presence of the complex reproductive system in a woman makes it even more important to undergo a periodic well-woman exam. In this blog post, we will explore the following topics:

• What is a well-woman exam?
• Why is a well-woman exam important?
• What procedures are included in a well-woman exam?
• How to prepare for a well-woman exam?

VNA Health Care is committed to providing access to quality and affordable healthcare services for women in the Chicago suburbs. Our services include annual well-woman exams for women of all age groups. In this post, we will also explain in detail the different procedures you can utilize at low cost or free of cost as part of the VNA Health Care well-woman exam.

What Is a Well-Woman Exam?

A well-woman exam is also called a wellness visit, gynecological exam, or an annual exam. The wellness exam is carried out by a licensed medical practitioner who is either a gynecology doctor, primary healthcare physician, or nurse practitioner. These are professionals who have been trained in women’s health and understand the changing healthcare needs of the female body over the years.

A well-woman visit looks at the different parts of the female body and includes the following procedures:

• Breast examination
• Pelvic exam
• Checking for sexually transmitted diseases
• Screening for cancer (breast cancer screening and cervical cancer screening)
• General health exam

As you can see, a well-woman visit is not solely focused on the uterus or the breasts. It is a complete medical check-up of the body, including reproductive health. Generally, most women take their first well-woman exam sometime in their late teen years.

It’s a good idea to take a wellness visit if you are a sexually active teenager. Otherwise, any time between 18 and 21 years is a good time to start taking an annual well-woman visit. Ideally, you should be taking these visits regularly from the age of 21.

As part of health and human services, these well-woman care exams may also sometimes include a clinical breast exam, mental health screening, and screening for chronic disease such as high blood pressure and diabetes mellitus.

Why Is a Well-Woman Exam So Important?

Conducting annual well-woman exams can have a vital impact on your overall health and even help avoid an early death from certain cancers. These preventive health services visits are an important part of women’s health care. Here are some of the key reasons why you should go for a wellness visit every year without fail:

Prevention or Early Detection of Cervical Cancer

For starters, the pelvic exam and pap smear test are the only way to detect early signs of cervical cancer. It is a type of cancer caused by a virus called the human papillomavirus or HPV. At one point in time, cervical cancer was one of the most common causes of cancer death in American women.

Encouragingly, with regular pap smear tests and pelvic exams, we have successfully reduced the incidence of deaths due to cervical cancer, but it still poses health risks. Each year, around 14,000 new cases of cervical cancer are discovered and it results in the death of over 4,200 women.

The most common type of cervical cancer starts with some changes in the uterus. This is called the pre-cancerous stage. If you detect cancer in this early stage, the disease can be treated and prevented from growing into full-blown cancer.

Since a well-woman visit always includes some type of screening for cervical cancer, it could help save your life.

Prevention or Early Detection of Breast Cancer

While the occurrence of cervical cancer is relatively infrequent, the same cannot be said about breast cancer. After skin cancer, it is the second most common type of cancer found among women in the United States. Breast cancer is also the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, behind lung cancer.

Any woman (and even some men) can get cancer in their breasts. Almost 30% of all new cancers detected in women each year are breast cancers. If you are an American woman, your chances of developing breast cancer at some point in life are 1 in 8 or about 13%.

Early detection is critical for a positive outcome from breast cancer treatment. The best way to screen for breast cancer is via a mammogram – an x-ray of the breast. It can help detect the very early signs of cancer deep inside the breast tissue, at least three years before you would be able to feel it as breast lumps. With early detection, you might be able to avoid breast removal as well.

Breast cancer is more common among women above the age of 40 so annual mammograms are included as part of your wellness visits beginning at this age.

Improve Your Reproductive Health

Numerous disorders and diseases can affect the reproductive system. They include sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), urinary tract infections (UTIs), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and other disorders.

These can affect your ability to have a healthy sex life and safe pregnancies. Annual medical check-ups during a well-woman exam can help solve many of these problems or at least keep them under control.

What to Expect from a Well-Woman Visit?

There are several different stages to a well-woman exam. Before the different procedures, the nurses or physicians at the facility will ask you about your medical history, family history, and any ongoing health concerns.

Common Questions Asked During a Well-Woman Exam

The doctor or nurse may ask the following questions:

• How often do you get your period?
• How long do your periods typically last?
• Do you experience heavy menstrual bleeding?
• Do you experience bleeding/spotting between your periods?
• Do you experience any itching, pain, or unusual discharge from your vagina?
• What other medical conditions do you have (if any)?
• Does anyone in your family have a history of major illnesses like cancers or heart disease?
• Are you sexually active?
• How often do you have sex and what kinds of sex (vaginal, anal, oral)?
• How many sexual partners do you have and of what gender are your partners?
• Do you suffer pain or bleed during or after sex?
• Are you using birth control?
• What protective measures do you use against STDs?
• Do you plan to get pregnant any time soon?

While some of these questions are undoubtedly very personal and uncomfortable, it is vital that you provide honest and accurate answers to each. It will help the healthcare providers serve you better. And do keep in mind that there are strict laws about patient privacy – the physicians/nurses cannot reveal personal details to anyone outside a healthcare setting.

What to Expect During a Physical Exam?

The doctor/nurse will take your vital statistics like height and weight. They will also measure other things like your blood pressure and heart rate, and also listen to your lungs’ breathing. Furthermore, they will check your throat for any issues with the thyroid gland.

A basic examination of your abdomen is also conducted. If you are between the ages of 40 to 64, they may conduct the following cardiovascular disease tests using blood and urine samples:

• Diabetes screening tests
• Cholesterol screening tests
• Screening for colon cancer
• Scanning for bone density

The healthcare providers will check on your current vaccination status as well. These may include HPV vaccines to prevent cervical cancer (annual up to the age of 26), as well as shots for flu, tetanus, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), and varicella.

What to Expect During a Breast Exam?

Younger women under the age of 40 will usually receive a manual breast exam. The nurse or physician will use their hands to inspect and press your breasts and armpit areas. You will have to take off any clothes covering the breast area for this exam.

The doctor/nurse will first inspect the breasts with their eyes for any outward signs of illness, like rashes, discolorations, and visible lumps. Next, they will feel each breast with the tips of their fingers to check for any lumps inside. They will also check your nipples and the area under your armpits.

These healthcare providers are trained to look for any abnormalities. If they find anything unusual they will suggest further tests or scans. The most common scan to look for breast cancer is something called a mammogram.

If you are above the age of 40, a mammogram is usually included in the annual well-woman exam. Mammograms are also recommended for younger women who have a higher risk of getting breast cancer (due to a history of breast cancer in the family, genetic conditions, medication, etc).

A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast taken using a special x-ray machine. A nurse or x-ray technologist will guide you through the whole process. You will be asked to stand in front of the mammogram machine. Your breasts will be placed between two plastic plates, one at a time.

The plates will squeeze the breast to keep it still for the scan. The entire process is usually completed within 15 minutes. While you may experience mild discomfort or pain, it will go away immediately.

What to Expect During a Pelvic Exam?

Many women dread the pelvic exam because the entire process can feel uncomfortable, weird, and an invasion of privacy. But the pelvic exam is a very powerful tool for your overall gynecological health and cancer prevention.

A pelvic exam consists of three main parts:

• An examination of the outer vagina/vulva.
• An examination of the inside of the vagina and cervix using a speculum.
• An examination of the uterus using gloved hands.

The entire process only takes a few minutes. You will be asked to remove all your clothes and step into a gown. The doctor may provide an additional sheet to wrap around your waist for privacy and comfort.

Before the actual pelvic exam, the doctor may check your heart, lungs, and abdomen. During the pelvic exam, you will be asked to lie flat on the examination table with your knees bent, feet placed apart on the corners of the table, or in stirrups.

After looking at the outside of the vagina for any signs of infection or sores, the doctor will spread your vaginal walls by inserting an instrument called the speculum. It is shaped like a duck’s bill and made out of metal or plastic. It can cause some discomfort – tell the doctor if you feel any pain.

After looking at the inside of the vagina, the doctor will use two fingers to feel the inside of your abdomen. By pressing these fingers onto the uterus and ovaries, the doctor can check the size and shape. It will help detect any unusual growths or abnormalities.

The doctor can usually tell immediately if there are any issues that require additional tests or scans.

Are Pap Smears Included in a Pelvic Exam?

A pap smear is a test conducted during a pelvic exam to detect signs of cervical cancer. It involves collecting cervix cell samples from inside your vagina using a speculum and a brush. The cell samples are then sent to a lab to look for signs of cancer.

The whole process can be rather uncomfortable. There may also be light bleeding immediately after the collection of samples. The frequency of getting pap smears will vary depending on your age:

• Between 21 and 29 – once every three years.
• Between 30 and 64 – once every five years when combined with a test for HPV.

Pap smears are discontinued after the age of 64, or if you have surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy). The doctor may recommend more frequent pap smears if you have any additional risk factors – a positive test for cervical cancer in the past, HIV infections, organ transplants, chemotherapy, steroid treatments, or a history of smoking.

Generally, if you are between the ages of 21 and 64, you can expect a pap smear (or HPV test) to be a part of your pelvic exam once every 3–5 years.

Difference Between a Pap Smear Test and an HPV Test

Both the pap test and HPV test are two different ways to screen for cervical cancer. Almost all forms of cervical cancer are caused by HPV. There are many types of HPV viruses, some cause harmless warts while others cause dangerous cancers.

A pap smear test uses cell samples from inside your vagina to look for signs of cancer. In contrast, an HPV test looks for the presence of high-risk HPV viruses inside your vagina. Both medical tests use samples from the same area inside the cervix, the lower end of the uterus.

If you get a positive pap test, it means that you need treatment to prevent the growth of cancer. A positive HPV test means that high-risk strains of the virus exist inside your body. This is a warning sign – even if you don’t have cancer right now, there is a high chance of it developing in the future.

If you get a positive HPV test, the doctor may recommend more frequent pap smear tests during future well-woman exams as a precaution.

Counseling After Your Well-Woman Visit

After the completion of the various procedures, the healthcare provider may suggest further measures to improve your overall health. This can include optional information regarding contraception – you can seek guidance regarding birth control measures to prevent unwanted pregnancies.

For older women above the age of 45, the healthcare provider may also include counseling for menopause. This will include discussions regarding the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to increase the level of estrogen and progesterone in the body. It may be beneficial in reducing the risk of heart disease and improving bone health (preventing osteoporosis).

VNA Health Care Provides Free/Low-Cost Well-Woman Exams

VNA Health Care is a highly dependable and accredited non-profit organization working with underserved communities throughout suburban Chicago. We provide high-quality, low-cost access to essential medical services, including family medicine, pediatrics, senior care, pregnancy care, and vaccinations, with extra focus on women’s health and primary care.

Under the Affordable Care Act, annual well-woman exams are completely free and covered in full by insurance plans as a preventive benefit. To get a well-woman exam free, all you have to do is get the procedure done at a healthcare provider that accepts your insurance plan.

VNA Health Care accepts all major insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, and other private market insurance plans. Even if you don’t have insurance, you may qualify for free or low-cost wellness exams at our health centers. To learn more, call our appointment line at (630) 892-4355 today.

Funding provided in whole or in part by the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program