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Initiating Hormonal Contraception - American Family Physician

Mar 1, 2021 - Most patients can safely begin using hormonal contraception at any point in their menstrual cycle. An evidence-based, flexible, patient-centered approach to initiating contraception promotes health and enhances patients’ reproductive autonomy. A recent Papanicolaou test is not necessary...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0301/p291.html

Peripheral Neuropathy: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis - American Family Physician

Dec 15, 2020 - Peripheral neuropathy, a common neurologic problem encountered by family physicians, can be classified clinically by the anatomic pattern of presenting symptoms and, if indicated, by results of electrodiagnostic studies for axonal and demyelinating disease. The prevalence of peripheral ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/1215/p732.html

Insomnia: Pharmacologic Therapy - American Family Physician

Jul 1, 2017 - Insomnia accounts for more than 5.5 million visits to family physicians each year. Although behavioral interventions are the mainstay of treatment, pharmacologic therapy may be necessary for some patients. Understanding the risks and benefits of insomnia medications is critical. ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0701/p29.html

Over-the-Counter Medications in Pregnancy - American Family Physician

Oct 15, 2014 - Many pregnant women take over-the-counter (OTC) medications despite the absence of randomized controlled trials to guide their use during pregnancy. Most data come from case-control and cohort studies. In 1979, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration began reviewing all prescription and ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/1015/p548.html

Cerebral Palsy: An Overview - American Family Physician

Feb 15, 2020 - Cerebral palsy, which occurs in two to three out of 1,000 live births, has multiple etiologies resulting in brain injury that affects movement, posture, and balance. The movement disorders associated with cerebral palsy are categorized as spasticity, dyskinesia, ataxia, or mixed/other. ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0215/p213.html

Atopic Dermatitis: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician

May 15, 2020 - Atopic dermatitis (atopic eczema) is a chronic relapsing and remitting inflammatory skin disease affecting one in 10 people in their lifetime. Atopic dermatitis is caused by a complex interaction of immune dysregulation, epidermal gene mutations, and environmental factors that disrupts ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0515/p590.html

Deep Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism: Current Therapy - American Family Physician

Mar 1, 2017 - Pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis are the two most important manifestations of venous thromboembolism (VTE), which is the third most common life-threatening cardiovascular disease in the United States. Anticoagulation is the mainstay of VTE treatment. Most patients with deep...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0301/p295.html

Severe Asymptomatic Hypertension: Evaluation and Treatment - American Family Physician

Apr 15, 2017 - Hypertension affects one-third of Americans and is a significant modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke, renal disease, and death. Severe asymptomatic hypertension is defined as severely elevated blood pressure (180 mm Hg or more systolic, or 110 mm Hg or more ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0415/p492.html

Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis - American Family Physician

Apr 1, 2021 - Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is a diagnostic tool for many conditions affecting the central nervous system. Urgent indications for lumbar puncture include suspected central nervous system infection or subarachnoid hemorrhage. CSF analysis is not necessarily diagnostic but can be ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0401/p422.html

Coronary Artery Disease/Coronary Heart Disease - American Family Physician

Mar 15, 2021 - This collection features AFP content on coronary artery disease (CAD), coronary heart disease (CHD) and related issues, including acute coronary syndrome, angina, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, and myocardial infarction. This collection features AFP content on coronary artery disease ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=4

Heart Failure - American Family Physician

Jul 15, 2020 - This collection features AFP content on heart failure and related issues, including angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs), cardiomyopathy, cardioverter-defibrillators, congestive heart failure, and diastolic and systolic heart failure. This...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=26

Diagnosis and Management of Osteoporosis - American Family Physician

Aug 15, 2015 - Osteoporosis-related fractures affect approximately one in two white women and one in five white men in their lifetime. The impact of fractures includes loss of function, significant costs, and increased mortality. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends using dual energy ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0815/p261.html

Chronic Rhinosinusitis - American Family Physician

Oct 15, 2017 - Chronic rhinosinusitis is an inflammatory disease of the paranasal sinuses that occurs in 1% to 5% of the U.S. population. It may significantly decrease quality of life. Chronic rhinosinusitis is defined by the presence of at least two out of four cardinal symptoms (i.e., facial ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1015/p500.html

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections - American Family Physician

Sep 15, 2015 - Skin and soft tissue infections result from microbial invasion of the skin and its supporting structures. Management is determined by the severity and location of the infection and by patient comorbidities. Infections can be classified as simple (uncomplicated) or complicated ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0915/p474.html

Croup: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

May 1, 2018 - Croup is a common respiratory illness affecting 3% of children six months to three years of age. It accounts for 7% of hospitalizations annually for fever and/or acute respiratory illness in children younger than five years. Croup is a manifestation of upper airway obstruction resulting...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0501/p575.html

Glucose Management in Hospitalized Patients - American Family Physician

Nov 15, 2017 - Glucose management in hospitalized patients poses challenges to physicians, including identifying blood glucose targets, judicious use of oral diabetes mellitus medications, and implementing appropriate insulin regimens. Uncontrolled blood glucose levels can lead to deleterious effects ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1115/p648.html

Plantar Fasciitis - American Family Physician

Jun 15, 2019 - Plantar fasciitis is a common problem that one in 10 people will experience in their lifetime. Plantar fasciopathy is an appropriate descriptor because the condition is not inflammatory. Risk factors include limited ankle dorsiflexion, increased body mass index, and standing for ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0615/p744.html

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Primary Care Approach to Diagnosis and Management - ...

Aug 15, 2016 - Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that affects many systems, including the skin, musculoskeletal, renal, neuropsychiatric, hematologic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and reproductive systems. Family physicians should be familiar with the manifestations of lupus to aid ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0815/p284.html

Amenorrhea: A Systematic Approach to Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Jul 1, 2019 - Menstrual patterns can be an indicator of overall health and self-perception of well-being. Primary amenorrhea, defined as the lifelong absence of menses, requires evaluation if menarche has not occurred by 15 years of age or three years post-thelarche. Secondary amenorrhea is ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0701/p39.html

Diagnosis and Management of Tinea Infections - American Family Physician

Nov 15, 2014 - Tinea infections are caused by dermatophytes and are classified by the involved site. The most common infections in prepubertal children are tinea corporis and tinea capitis, whereas adolescents and adults are more likely to develop tinea cruris, tinea pedis, and tinea unguium ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/1115/p702.html

Diagnosis and Management of Nephrotic Syndrome in Adults - American Family Physician

Mar 15, 2016 - Nephrotic syndrome (NS) consists of peripheral edema, heavy proteinuria, and hypoalbuminemia, often with hyperlipidemia. Patients typically present with edema and fatigue, without evidence of heart failure or severe liver disease. The diagnosis of NS is based on typical clinical ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0315/p479.html

Office Spirometry: Indications and Interpretation - American Family Physician

Mar 15, 2020 - High-quality, office-based spirometry provides diagnostic information as useful and reliable as testing performed in a pulmonary function laboratory. Spirometry may be used to monitor progression of lung disease and response to therapy. A stepwise approach to spirometry allows for ease ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0315/p362.html

Management of Hypertriglyceridemia: Common Questions and Answers - American Family ...

Sep 15, 2020 - Hypertriglyceridemia, defined as fasting serum triglyceride levels of 150 mg per dL or higher, is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Severely elevated triglyceride levels (500 mg per dL or higher) increase the risk of pancreatitis. Common risk factors for ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0915/p347.html

Knee Pain in Adults and Adolescents: The Initial Evaluation - American Family Physician

Nov 1, 2018 - Knee pain affects approximately 25% of adults, and its prevalence has increased almost 65% over the past 20 years, accounting for nearly 4 million primary care visits annually. Initial evaluation should emphasize excluding urgent causes while considering the need for referral. Key ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1101/p576.html

Dysuria: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis in Adults - American Family Physician

Nov 1, 2015 - The most common cause of acute dysuria is infection, especially cystitis. Other infectious causes include urethritis, sexually transmitted infections, and vaginitis. Noninfectious inflammatory causes include a foreign body in the urinary tract and dermatologic conditions. ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/1101/p778.html

Tremor: Sorting Through the Differential Diagnosis - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2018 - Tremor is an involuntary, rhythmic, oscillatory movement of a body part. It is the most common movement disorder encountered in primary care. The diagnosis of tremor is based on clinical information obtained from the history and physical examination. The most common tremors in patients ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0201/p180.html

Pigmentation Disorders: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Dec 15, 2017 - Pigmentation disorders are commonly diagnosed, evaluated, and treated in primary care practices. Typical hyperpigmentation disorders include postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, solar lentigines, ephelides (freckles), and café au lait macules. These conditions are generally ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1215/p797.html

Apophysitis and Osteochondrosis: Common Causes of Pain in Growing Bones - American ...

May 15, 2019 - Apophysitis and osteochondrosis are common causes of pain in growing bones but have differing etiologies and required management. Apophysitis results from a traction injury to the cartilage and bony attachment of tendons in children and adolescents. Most often it is an overuse injury in...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0515/p610.html

Bartholin Duct Cyst and Gland Abscess: Office Management - American Family Physician

Jun 15, 2019 - The Bartholin glands, located in the base of the labia minora, have a role in vaginal lubrication. Because of the presence of other glands, removal of a Bartholin gland does not affect lubrication. Ductal blockage of these typically pea-sized structures can result in enlargement of the ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0615/p760.html

Gout: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family Physician

Nov 1, 2020 - Gout is caused by monosodium urate crystal deposition in joints and tissues. Risk factors include male sex; obesity; hypertension; alcohol intake; diuretic use; a diet rich in meat and seafood; chronic kidney disease; a diet heavy in fructose-rich food and beverages; being a member of ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/1101/p533.html

Anemia in Older Adults - American Family Physician

Oct 1, 2018 - Anemia is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in older adults. Diagnostic cutoff values for defining anemia vary with age, sex, and possibly race. Anemia is often asymptomatic and discovered incidentally on laboratory testing. Patients may present with symptoms related to ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1001/p437.html

Acute Bacterial Prostatitis: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Jan 15, 2016 - Acute bacterial prostatitis is an acute infection of the prostate gland that causes pelvic pain and urinary tract symptoms, such as dysuria, urinary frequency, and urinary retention, and may lead to systemic symptoms, such as fevers, chills, nausea, emesis, and malaise. Although the ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0115/p114.html

Epididymitis: An Overview - American Family Physician

Nov 1, 2016 - Inflammation of the epididymis, or epididymitis, is commonly seen in the outpatient setting. Etiology and treatment are based on patient age and the likely causative organisms. Epididymitis presents as the gradual onset of posterior scrotal pain that may be accompanied by urinary ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/1101/p723.html

Acute Chest Pain in Adults: Outpatient Evaluation - American Family Physician

Dec 15, 2020 - Approximately 1% of primary care office visits are for chest pain, and 2% to 4% of these patients will have unstable angina or myocardial infarction. Initial evaluation is based on determining whether the patient needs to be referred to a higher level of care to rule out acute coronary ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/1215/p721.html

A Stepwise Approach to the Interpretation of Pulmonary Function Tests - American Family...

Mar 1, 2014 - Office-based pulmonary function testing, also known as spirometry, is a powerful tool for primary care physicians to diagnose and manage respiratory problems. An obstructive defect is indicated by a low forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) ratio, which...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0301/p359.html

Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention of Gout - American Family Physician

Dec 15, 2014 - Gout is characterized by painful joint inflammation, most commonly in the first metatarsophalangeal joint, resulting from precipitation of monosodium urate crystals in a joint space. Gout is typically diagnosed using clinical criteria from the American College of Rheumatology. Diagnosis...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/1215/p831.html

Coding: CPT -- FPM Toolbox

Mar 9, 2021 - Download tools to help you optimize your coding of patient encounters.

Family Practice Management : FPM Toolbox : Coding: CPT

https://www.aafp.org/fpm/toolBox/viewToolType.htm?toolTypeId=4

Diabetes Mellitus: Screening and Diagnosis - American Family Physician

Jan 15, 2016 - Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common diagnoses made by family physicians. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to blindness, limb amputation, kidney failure, and vascular and heart disease. Screening patients before signs and symptoms develop leads to earlier diagnosis and treatment, ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0115/p103.html

Neuropsychological Evaluations in Adults - American Family Physician

Jan 15, 2019 - Neuropsychologists provide detailed assessments of cognitive and emotional functioning that often cannot be obtained through other diagnostic means. They use standardized assessment tools and integrate the findings with other data to determine whether cognitive decline has occurred, to ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0115/p101.html

Cerumen Impaction: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Oct 15, 2018 - Cerumen production is a normal and protective process for the ear canal. However, cerumen should be removed when it causes symptoms (e.g., hearing loss, itching, pain, tinnitus) or prevents assessment of the external auditory canal, the tympanic membrane, or audiovestibular system. ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1015/p525.html

Deep Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism - American Family Physician

Apr 1, 2021 - This collection features AFP content on deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and related issues, including anticoagulation, heparin therapy, and venous thromboembolism. This collection features AFP content on deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and related issues, including...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=69

Dog and Cat Bites - American Family Physician

Aug 15, 2014 - Animal bites account for 1% of all emergency department visits in the United States and more than $50 million in health care costs per year. Most animal bites are from a dog, usually one known to the victim. Most dog bite victims are children. Bite wounds should be cleaned, copiously ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0815/p239.html

Chronic Nonallergic Rhinitis - American Family Physician

Aug 1, 2018 - Chronic nonallergic rhinitis encompasses a group of rhinitis subtypes without allergic or infectious etiologies. Although chronic nonallergic rhinitis represents about one-fourth of rhinitis cases and impacts 20 to 30 million patients in the United States, its pathophysiology is unclear...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0801/p171.html

Prenatal Care - American Family Physician

Apr 15, 2021 - This collection features AFP content on prenatal care and related issues, including preconception care, folic acid, medication safety, nausea and vomiting, pregnancy complications, and prenatal screening. This collection features AFP content on prenatal care and related issues, ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=25

Failure to Thrive: A Practical Guide - American Family Physician

Aug 15, 2016 - Children with very low weight for age or height and those who do not maintain an appropriate growth pattern may have failure to thrive (FTT), also known as weight faltering. If confirmed by repeated valid measurements, FTT should prompt a search for causes of undernutrition, including ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0815/p295.html

Crohn's Disease: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Dec 1, 2018 - Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract. It can cause lesions from mouth to anus and may result in extraintestinal complications. The prevalence of Crohn’s disease is increasing in adults and children. Genetic predispositions to ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1201/p661.html

Common Questions About Oppositional Defiant Disorder - American Family Physician

Apr 1, 2016 - Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a disruptive behavior disorder characterized by a pattern of angry or irritable mood, argumentative or defiant behavior, or vindictiveness lasting for at least six months. Children and adolescents with ODD may have trouble controlling their temper ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0401/p586.html

Common Fractures of the Radius and Ulna - American Family Physician

Mar 15, 2021 - Fractures of the radius and ulna are the most common fractures of the upper extremity, with distal fractures occurring more often than proximal fractures. A fall onto an outstretched hand is the most common mechanism of injury for fractures of the radius and ulna. Evaluation with ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0315/p345.html

Hepatitis B: Screening, Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment - American Family Physician

Mar 1, 2019 - Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a partly double-stranded DNA virus that causes acute and chronic liver infection. Screening for hepatitis B is recommended in pregnant women at their first prenatal visit and in adolescents and adults at high risk of chronic infection. Hepatitis B vaccination ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0301/p314.html

Intestinal Obstruction: Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician

Sep 15, 2018 - Acute intestinal obstruction occurs when the forward flow of intestinal contents is interrupted or impaired by a mechanical cause. It is most commonly induced by intra-abdominal adhesions, malignancy, and herniation. The clinical presentation generally includes nausea, emesis, colicky ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0915/p362.html

Depression and Bipolar Disorder - American Family Physician

Apr 1, 2021 - This collection features AFP content on depression and bipolar disorder and related issues, including antidepressants, major depressive disorder, mental health, postpartum depression, and psychiatric medications. This collection features AFP content on depression and bipolar disorder ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=6

Testosterone Therapy: Review of Clinical Applications - American Family Physician

Oct 1, 2017 - Testosterone therapy is increasingly common in the United States, and many of these prescriptions are written by primary care physicians. There is conflicting evidence on the benefit of male testosterone therapy for age-related declines in testosterone. Physicians should not measure ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1001/p441.html

Diagnosis and Management of Common Types of Supraventricular Tachycardia - American ...

Nov 1, 2015 - Supraventricular tachycardia refers to rapid rhythms that originate and are sustained in atrial or atrioventricular node tissue above the bundle of His. The condition is caused by reentry phenomena or automaticity at or above the atrioventricular node, and includes atrioventricular ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/1101/p793.html

Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy - American Family Physician

Jan 15, 2016 - Elevated blood pressure in pregnancy may represent chronic hypertension (occurring before 20 weeks’ gestation or persisting longer than 12 weeks after delivery), gestational hypertension (occurring after 20 weeks’ gestation), preeclampsia, or preeclampsia superimposed on chronic ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0115/p121.html

Heel Pain: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Jan 15, 2018 - The differential diagnosis of heel pain is extensive, but a mechanical etiology is the most common. The specific anatomic location of the pain can help guide diagnosis. The most common diagnosis is plantar fasciitis, which leads to medial plantar heel pain, especially with the first ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0115/p86.html

Diagnosis and Treatment of Temporomandibular Disorders - American Family Physician

Mar 15, 2015 - Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a heterogeneous group of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions involving the temporomandibular joint complex, and surrounding musculature and osseous components. TMD affects up to 15% of adults, with a peak incidence at 20 to 40 years of age....

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0315/p378.html

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome - American Family Physician

Jan 15, 2019 - Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common causes of anterior knee pain encountered in the outpatient setting in adolescents and adults younger than 60 years. The incidence in the United States is between 3% and 6%. The cardinal feature of PFPS is pain in or around ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0115/p88.html

Peripheral Nerve Entrapment and Injury in the Upper Extremity - American Family Physician

Mar 1, 2021 - Peripheral nerves in the upper extremities are at risk of injury and entrapment because of their superficial nature and length. Injury can result from trauma, anatomic abnormalities, systemic disease, and entrapment. The extent of the injury can range from mild neurapraxia, in which the...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0301/p275.html

Otitis Media: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician

Oct 1, 2013 - Acute otitis media is diagnosed in patients with acute onset, presence of middle ear effusion, physical evidence of middle ear inflammation, and symptoms such as pain, irritability, or fever. Acute otitis media is usually a complication of eustachian tube dysfunction that occurs during ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/1001/p435.html

Febrile Seizures: Risks, Evaluation, and Prognosis - American Family Physician

Apr 1, 2019 - A febrile seizure is a seizure occurring in a child six months to five years of age that is accompanied by a fever (100.4°F or greater) without central nervous system infection. Febrile seizures are classified as simple or complex. A complex seizure lasts 15 minutes or more, is ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0401/p445.html

Abdominal Pain, Acute - American Family Physician

Dec 1, 2020 - This collection features AFP content on acute abdominal pain and related issues, including acute pelvic pain, appendicitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and pancreatitis. This collection features AFP content on acute abdominal pain and related ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=73

Shoulder Dystocia: Managing an Obstetric Emergency - American Family Physician

Jul 15, 2020 - Shoulder dystocia is an obstetric emergency in which normal traction on the fetal head does not lead to delivery of the shoulders. This can cause neonatal brachial plexus injuries, hypoxia, and maternal trauma, including damage to the bladder, anal sphincter, and rectum, and postpartum ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0715/p84.html

Frequent Headaches: Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician

Apr 1, 2020 - Most frequent headaches are typically migraine or tension-type headaches and are often exacerbated by medication overuse. Repeated headaches can induce central sensitization and transformation to chronic headaches that are intractable, are difficult to treat, and cause significant ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0401/p419.html

Gas, Bloating, and Belching: Approach to Evaluation and Management - American Family ...

Mar 1, 2019 - Gas, bloating, and belching are associated with a variety of conditions but are most commonly caused by functional gastrointestinal disorders. These disorders are characterized by disordered motility and visceral hypersensitivity that are often worsened by psychological distress. An ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0301/p301.html

Arthritis and Joint Pain - American Family Physician

Apr 1, 2021 - This collection features AFP content on arthritis and joint pain, including arthritis, gout, knee osteoarthritis, monoarthritis, osteoarthritis, polyarticular joint pain, Reiter's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, septic arthritis, and shoulder osteoarthritis. This collection features AFP...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=77

Acute Diarrhea in Adults - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2014 - Acute diarrhea in adults is a common problem encountered by family physicians. The most common etiology is viral gastroenteritis, a self-limited disease. Increases in travel, comorbidities, and foodborne illness lead to more bacteria-related cases of acute diarrhea. A history and ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0201/p180.html

Common Herbal Dietary Supplement—Drug Interactions - American Family Physician

Jul 15, 2017 - Nearly 25% of U.S. adults report concurrently taking a prescription medication with a dietary supplement. Some supplements, such as St. John’s wort and goldenseal, are known to cause clinically important drug interactions and should be avoided by most patients receiving any ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0715/p101.html

Probiotics for Gastrointestinal Conditions: A Summary of the Evidence - American Family...

Aug 1, 2017 - Probiotics contain microorganisms, most of which are bacteria similar to the beneficial bacteria that occur naturally in the human gut. Probiotics have been widely studied in a variety of gastrointestinal diseases. The most-studied species include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0801/p170.html

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Jun 15, 2020 - Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is noncardiogenic pulmonary edema that manifests as rapidly progressive dyspnea, tachypnea, and hypoxemia. Diagnostic criteria include onset within one week of a known insult or new or worsening respiratory symptoms, profound hypoxemia, ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0615/p730.html

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Common Questions and Answers on Diagnosis and ...

Nov 15, 2020 - Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common form of liver disease in the United States, affecting up to 30% of adults. There are two forms of NAFLD: nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), defined as 5% or greater hepatic steatosis without hepatocellular injury or fibrosis, and...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/1115/p603.html

Common Breast Problems - American Family Physician

Apr 15, 2019 - Palpable breast masses, mastalgia, and nipple discharge are commonly encountered symptoms in outpatient practice, causing significant patient anxiety and precipitating medical consultation. The initial workup includes a detailed clinical history and physical examination. Women ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0415/p505.html

Evaluation of Jaundice in Adults - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2017 - Jaundice in adults can be an indicator of significant underlying disease. It is caused by elevated serum bilirubin levels in the unconjugated or conjugated form. The evaluation of jaundice relies on the history and physical examination. The initial laboratory evaluation should include ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0201/p164.html

Anemia - American Family Physician

Oct 1, 2018 - This collection features AFP content on anemia and related issues, including blood transfusions, iron deficiency and iron supplementation, macrocytosis, microcytosis, and thalassemia. This collection features AFP content on anemia and related issues, including blood transfusions, iron ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=2

Onychomycosis: Current Trends in Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician

Dec 1, 2013 - Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails that causes discoloration, thickening, and separation from the nail bed. Onychomycosis occurs in 10% of the general population, 20% of persons older than 60 years, and 50% of those older than 70 years. It is caused by a variety of ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/1201/p762.html

Colorectal Cancer Screening and Surveillance in Individuals at Increased Risk - ...

Jan 15, 2018 - Individuals at increased risk of developing colorectal cancer include those with a personal or family history of advanced adenomas or colorectal cancer, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, or genetic polyposis syndromes. In general, these persons should undergo more ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0115/p111.html

Dysphagia: Evaluation and Collaborative Management - American Family Physician

Jan 15, 2021 - Dysphagia is common but may be underreported. Specific symptoms, rather than their perceived location, should guide the initial evaluation and imaging. Obstructive symptoms that seem to originate in the throat or neck may actually be caused by distal esophageal lesions. Oropharyngeal ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0115/p97.html

Patient-Centered Communication: Basic Skills - American Family Physician

Jan 1, 2017 - Communication skills needed for patient-centered care include eliciting the patient’s agenda with open-ended questions, especially early on; not interrupting the patient; and engaging in focused active listening. Understanding the patient’s perspective of the illness and expressing ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0101/p29.html

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention - American Family ...

Sep 15, 2019 - Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the upper genital tract occurring predominantly in sexually active young women. Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae are common causes; however, other cervical, enteric, bacterial vaginosis–associated, and respiratory ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0915/p357.html

Diagnosis and Treatment of Peptic Ulcer Disease and H. pylori Infection - American ...

Feb 15, 2015 - The most common causes of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) are Helicobacter pylori infection and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The test-and-treat strategy for detecting H. pylori is appropriate in situations where the risk of gastric cancer is low based on age younger ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0215/p236.html

Sexually Transmitted Infections - American Family Physician

May 1, 2021 - This collection features AFP content on sexually transmitted disease and related issues, including chlamydia, genital herpes, gonorrhea, human papillomavirus, and syphilis. This collection features AFP content on sexually transmitted disease and related issues, including chlamydia, ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=23

A Comprehensive Newborn Exam: Part I. General, Head and Neck, Cardiopulmonary - ...

Sep 1, 2014 - A comprehensive newborn examination involves a systematic inspection. A Ballard score uses physical and neurologic characteristics to assess gestational age. Craniosynostosis is caused by premature fusion of the sutures, and 20% of children with this condition have a genetic mutation or...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0901/p289.html

Eating Disorders in Primary Care: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Jan 1, 2021 - Eating disorders are potentially life-threatening conditions characterized by disordered eating and weight-control behaviors that impair physical health and psychosocial functioning. Early intervention may decrease the risk of long-term pathology and disability. Clinicians should ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0101/p22.html

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Bronchiolitis in Children - American Family Physician

Jan 15, 2017 - Bronchiolitis is a common lower respiratory tract infection in infants and young children, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of this infection. RSV is transmitted through contact with respiratory droplets either directly from an infected person or ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0115/p94.html

Difficult-to-Treat and Severe Asthma: Management Strategies - American Family Physician

Mar 1, 2021 - Asthma is a common chronic inflammatory disease in the United States. Up to 17% of asthma cases are classified as difficult to treat, and 3.7% of these are considered severe. Uncontrolled asthma is characterized by poor symptom control or frequent exacerbations. In difficult-to-treat ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0301/p286.html

Chronic Wounds: Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2020 - Chronic wounds are those that do not progress through a normal, orderly, and timely sequence of repair. They are common and are often incorrectly treated. The morbidity and associated costs of chronic wounds highlight the need to implement wound prevention and treatment guidelines. ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0201/p159.html

Life Balance -- FPM Toolbox

Apr 27, 2020 - Download tools to help you manage your time and prevent burnout.

Family Practice Management : FPM Toolbox : Life Balance

https://www.aafp.org/fpm/toolBox/viewToolType.htm?toolTypeId=18

Adults with Developmental Disabilities: A Comprehensive Approach to Medical Care - ...

May 15, 2018 - Developmental disabilities are attributable to a cognitive impairment, physical impairment, or both. They manifest during the developmental period from birth to early adulthood, and are likely to continue indefinitely. The life expectancy of most persons with developmental disabilities ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0515/p649.html

Acute Hand Infections - American Family Physician

Feb 15, 2019 - Acute hand infections are often caused by puncture wounds and are generally classified into superficial or deep infections. Superficial infections occur in the skin and subcutaneous tissues, whereas deep infections can involve the tendon sheaths, adjacent anatomic compartments, deep ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0215/p228.html

Evaluation of the Painful Eye - American Family Physician

Jun 15, 2016 - Eye problems constitute 2% to 3% of all primary care and emergency department visits. Common eye conditions that can cause eye pain are conjunctivitis, corneal abrasion, and hordeolum, and some of the most serious eye conditions include acute angle-closure glaucoma, orbital cellulitis, ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0615/p991.html

Erythema Multiforme: Recognition and Management - American Family Physician

Jul 15, 2019 - Erythema multiforme is an immune-mediated reaction that involves the skin and sometimes the mucosa. Classically described as target-like, the erythema multiforme lesions can be isolated, recurrent, or persistent. Most commonly, the lesions of erythema multiforme present symmetrically on...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0715/p82.html

Travel Medicine - American Family Physician

May 1, 2021 - This collection features AFP content on travel medicine and related issues, including malaria, traveler’s diarrhea, pretravel consultation, and travel immunizations. This collection features AFP content on travel medicine and related issues, including malaria, traveler’s diarrhea, ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=70

Herpes Zoster and Postherpetic Neuralgia: Prevention and Management - American Family ...

Nov 15, 2017 - Herpes zoster, or shingles, is caused by reactivation of varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox. There are an estimated 1 million cases in the Unites States annually, with an individual lifetime risk of 30%. Patients with conditions that decrease cell-mediated immunity are 20 ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1115/p656.html

Management of Fever in Infants and Young Children - American Family Physician

Jun 15, 2020 - Despite dramatic reductions in the rates of bacteremia and meningitis since the 1980s, febrile illness in children younger than 36 months continues to be a concern with potentially serious consequences. Factors that suggest serious infection include age younger than one month, poor ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0615/p721.html

Somatic Symptom Disorder - American Family Physician

Jan 1, 2016 - With the release of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed., the diagnostic category previously known as somatoform disorders is now called somatic symptom and related disorders. The revisions were intended to increase their relevance in the primary care ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0101/p49.html

Patient Surveys/Questionnaires -- FPM Toolbox

Aug 22, 2019 - Download sample patient satisfaction surveys and other questionnaires.

Family Practice Management : FPM Toolbox : Patient Surveys/Questionnaires

https://www.aafp.org/fpm/toolBox/viewToolType.htm?toolTypeId=23

Urinary Tract Infections in Young Children and Infants: Common Questions and Answers - ...

Sep 1, 2020 - Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in children and are associated with significant short- and long-term morbidity. They have a high recurrence rate and are associated with anatomic and functional abnormalities. The decision to test for UTI is based on risk factors and the ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0901/p278.html

Ectopic Pregnancy: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

May 15, 2020 - Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized ovum implants outside of the uterine cavity. In the United States, the estimated prevalence of ectopic pregnancy is 1% to 2%, and ruptured ectopic pregnancy accounts for 2.7% of pregnancy-related deaths. Risk factors include a history of pelvic...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0515/p599.html

Oncologic Emergencies: Recognition and Initial Management - American Family Physician

Jun 1, 2018 - Most oncologic emergencies can be classified as metabolic, hematologic, structural, or treatment related. Tumor lysis syndrome is a metabolic emergency that presents as severe electrolyte abnormalities. Stabilization is focused on vigorous rehydration, maintaining urine output, and ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0601/p741.html

When to Order Contrast-Enhanced CT - American Family Physician

Sep 1, 2013 - Family physicians often must determine the most appropriate diagnostic tests to order for their patients. It is essential to know the types of contrast agents, their risks, contraindications, and common clinical scenarios in which contrast-enhanced computed tomography is appropriate. ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/0901/p312.html

Depression in Children and Adolescents: Evaluation and Treatment - American Family ...

Nov 15, 2019 - The prevalence of major unipolar depression in children and adolescents is increasing in the United States. In 2016, approximately 5% of 12-year-olds and 17% of 17-year-olds reported experiencing a major depressive episode in the previous 12 months. Screening for depression in ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1115/p609.html