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Muscle Weakness in Adults: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis - American Family ...

Jan 15, 2020 - Although the prevalence of muscle weakness in the general population is uncertain, it occurs in about 5% of U.S. adults 60 years and older. Determining the cause of muscle weakness can be challenging. True muscle weakness must first be differentiated from subjective fatigue or ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0115/p95.html

Heart Murmurs in Children: Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician

Mar 1, 2022 - Up to 8.6% of infants and 80% of children have a heart murmur during their early years of life. The presence of a murmur can indicate conditions ranging from no discernable pathology to acquired or congenital heart disease. In infants with a murmur, physicians should review the ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0300/p250.html

Type 2 Diabetes Therapies: A STEPS Approach - American Family Physician

Feb 15, 2019 - A concise way to evaluate pharmacotherapy options for type 2 diabetes mellitus is to use the five patient-oriented STEPS criteria: safety, tolerability, efficacy, price, and simplicity. The first-line treatment option, metformin, is safe and fairly well-tolerated, has excellent ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0215/p237.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

Urinary Tract Infections/Dysuria - American Family Physician

Sep 1, 2020 - This collection features AFP content on urinary tract infections/dysuria and related issues, including asymptomatic bacteriuria, bladder infections, cystitis, painful bladder syndrome, pyelonephritis, urinalysis, and urine dipstick testing. This collection features AFP content on ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=30

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

Evaluation of Neck Masses in Adults - American Family Physician

May 15, 2015 - Neck masses are often seen in clinical practice, and the family physician should be able to determine the etiology of a mass using organized, efficient diagnostic methods. The first goal is to determine if the mass is malignant or benign; malignancies are more common in adult smokers ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0515/p698.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

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - American Family Physician

Feb 15, 2022 - This collection features AFP content on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and related issues, including acute and chronic COPD, spirometry, pulmonary rehabilitation, oxygen therapy, corticosteriods, and pulmonary complications. This collection features AFP content on chronic ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=32

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

Uterine Fibroids: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician

Jan 15, 2017 - Uterine fibroids are common benign neoplasms, with a higher prevalence in older women and in those of African descent. Many are discovered incidentally on clinical examination or imaging in asymptomatic women. Fibroids can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pressure, bowel ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0115/p100.html

Depression and Anxiety Disorders: Benefits of Exercise, Yoga, and Meditation - American...

May 15, 2019 - Many people with depression or anxiety turn to nonpharmacologic and nonconventional interventions, including exercise, yoga, meditation, tai chi, or qi gong. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews have shown that these interventions can improve symptoms of depression and anxiety ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0515/p620.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

Parathyroid Disorders - American Family Physician

Mar 1, 2022 - Parathyroid disorders are most often identified incidentally by abnormalities in serum calcium levels when screening for renal or bone disease or other conditions. Parathyroid hormone, which is released by the parathyroid glands primarily in response to low calcium levels, stimulates ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0300/p289.html

Interpreting SARS-CoV-2 Diagnostic Tests: Common Questions and Answers - American ...

Apr 15, 2021 - SARS-CoV-2 is the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The spectrum of asymptomatic, presymptomatic, and symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 transmission presents challenges for evaluating SARS-CoV-2 test performance for diagnostic or screening purposes and for interpreting test results. ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0415/p465.html

Ingrown Toenail Management - American Family Physician

Aug 1, 2019 - Ingrown toenails account for approximately 20% of foot problems in primary care. The great toe is most often affected. Ingrown toenails occur most commonly in young men, and nail care habits and footwear are most often contributory factors. No consensus has been reached for the best ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0801/p158.html

Tinnitus: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Jun 1, 2021 - Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing a sound in the absence of an internal or external source and is a common problem encountered in primary care. Most cases of tinnitus are benign and idiopathic and are strongly associated with sensorineural hearing loss. A standard workup begins with ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0601/p663.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

Type 1 Diabetes: Management Strategies - American Family Physician

Aug 1, 2018 - There is considerable benefit of tight glucose control in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Tight blood glucose control dramatically decreases the incidence of microvascular and macrovascular complications. Although glycemic goals should be individualized, most nonpregnant adults ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0801/p154.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

Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis - American Family Physician

Dec 1, 2015 - Allergic rhinitis is a common and chronic immunoglobulin E–mediated respiratory illness that can affect quality of life and productivity, as well as exacerbate other conditions such as asthma. Treatment should be based on the patient’s age and severity of symptoms. Patients should be ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/1201/p985.html

Alpha- and Beta-thalassemia: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family Physician

Mar 1, 2022 - Thalassemia is a group of autosomal recessive hemoglobinopathies affecting the production of normal alpha- or beta-globin chains that comprise hemoglobin. Ineffective production of alpha- or beta-globin chains may result in ineffective erythropoiesis, premature red blood cell ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0300/p272.html

Prenatal Care - American Family Physician

May 13, 2022 - 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

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

Diagnosis and Management of Common Foot Fractures - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2016 - Foot fractures are among the most common foot injuries evaluated by primary care physicians. They most often involve the metatarsals and toes. Patients typically present with varying signs and symptoms, the most common being pain and trouble with ambulation. Diagnosis requires ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0201/p183.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

Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family ...

Mar 15, 2019 - Lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) affects 12% to 20% of Americans 60 years and older. The most significant risk factors for PAD are hyperlipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and smoking; the presence of three or more factors confers a 10-fold...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0315/p362.html

Onychomycosis: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family Physician

Oct 1, 2021 - Onychomycosis is a chronic fungal infection of the fingernail or toenail bed leading to brittle, discolored, and thickened nails. Onychomycosis is not just a cosmetic problem. Untreated onychomycosis can cause pain, discomfort, and physical impairment, negatively impacting quality of ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/1000/p359.html

Fever of Unknown Origin in Adults - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2022 - Fever of unknown origin is defined as a clinically documented temperature of 101°F or higher on several occasions, coupled with an unrevealing diagnostic workup. The differential diagnosis is broad but is typically categorized as infection, malignancy, noninfectious inflammatory ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0200/p137.html

Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome: Outpatient Management - American Family Physician

Sep 1, 2021 - Approximately one-half of patients with alcohol use disorder who abruptly stop or reduce their alcohol use will develop signs or symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. The syndrome is due to overactivity of the central and autonomic nervous systems, leading to tremors, insomnia, ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0900/p253.html

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

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

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

Coronary Artery Disease/Coronary Heart Disease - American Family Physician

Mar 15, 2022 - 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

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

Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Adults: Diagnosis and Management - American Family ...

Nov 1, 2016 - Community-acquired pneumonia is a leading cause of death. Risk factors include older age and medical comorbidities. Diagnosis is suggested by a history of cough, dyspnea, pleuritic pain, or acute functional or cognitive decline, with abnormal vital signs (e.g., fever, tachycardia) and ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/1101/p698.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

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

Dementia - American Family Physician

Apr 15, 2022 - This collection features AFP content on dementia and related issues, including Alzheimer’s, Binswanger’s type, dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies. This collection features AFP content on dementia and related issues, including Alzheimer’s, Binswanger’s type, dementia, and dementia ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=5

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

Diagnosis and Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2015 - Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition in infants, adolescents, and adults. The characteristic symptoms—scaling, erythema, and itching—occur most often on the scalp, face, chest, back, axilla, and groin. Seborrheic dermatitis is a clinical diagnosis based on the location and ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0201/p185.html

Pruritus: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Jan 1, 2022 - Pruritus is the sensation of itching; it can be caused by dermatologic and systemic conditions. An exposure history may reveal symptom triggers. A thorough skin examination, including visualization of the finger webs, anogenital region, nails, and scalp, is essential. Primary skin ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0100/p55.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

Family Planning and Contraception - American Family Physician

Jan 14, 2022 - This collection features AFP content on family planning and contraception, including emergency contraception, hormonal and non-hormonal contraception, infertility, in vitro fertilization, intrauterine devices, preconception care, tubal sterilization, and vasectomy. This collection ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=71

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

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

Hearing Loss in Adults: Differential Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician

Jul 15, 2019 - More than 30 million U.S. adults have hearing loss. This condition is underrecognized, and hearing aids and other hearing enhancement technologies are underused. Hearing loss is categorized as conductive, sensorineural, or mixed. Age-related sensorineural hearing loss (i.e., ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0715/p98.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

Unintentional Weight Loss in Older Adults - American Family Physician

Jul 1, 2021 - Unintentional weight loss in people older than 65 years is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Nonmalignant diseases are more common causes of unintentional weight loss in this population than malignant causes. However, malignancy accounts for up to one-third of cases of ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0700/p34.html

Genital Ulcers: Differential Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Mar 15, 2020 - Genital ulcers may be located on the vagina, penis, and anorectal or perineal areas and may be infectious or noninfectious. Herpes simplex virus is the most common cause of genital ulcers in the United States. A diagnosis of genital herpes simplex virus infection is made through ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0315/p355.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

Orthostatic Hypotension: A Practical Approach - American Family Physician

Jan 1, 2022 - Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a decrease in blood pressure of 20 mm Hg or more systolic or 10 mm Hg or more diastolic within three minutes of standing from the supine position or on assuming a head-up position of at least 60 degrees during tilt table testing. Symptoms are due to...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0100/p39.html

Lice and Scabies: Treatment Update - American Family Physician

May 15, 2019 - Pediculosis and scabies are caused by ectoparasites. Pruritus is the most common presenting symptom. Head and pubic lice infestations are diagnosed with visualization of live lice. Nits (lice eggs or egg casings) alone are not sufficient to diagnose a current infestation. A no-nit ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0515/p635.html

Nutrition in Toddlers - American Family Physician

Aug 15, 2018 - The establishment of eating practices that contribute to lifelong nutritional habits and overall health begins in toddlerhood. During this time, children acquire the motor skills needed to feed themselves and develop preferences that affect their food selections. Classifications for ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0815/p227.html

Menopause - American Family Physician

Apr 15, 2022 - This collection features AFP content on menopause and related issues, including estrogen and progestogen therapy, hormone therapy, hot flashes, mood symptoms, sexual difficulties, and postmenopause. This collection features AFP content on menopause and related issues, including estrogen...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=59

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

Bipolar Disorders: Evaluation and Treatment - American Family Physician

Feb 15, 2021 - Bipolar disorders are common, recurrent mental health conditions of variable severity that are difficult to diagnose. Affected individuals have higher rates of other mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and comorbid chronic medical illnesses. New diagnostic criteria and ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0215/p227.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

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

Sexually Transmitted Infections - American Family Physician

May 13, 2022 - 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

Care of Special Populations - American Family Physician

May 13, 2022 - This collection features AFP content on the care of special populations and related issues, including ethnic minorities; gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered persons; homeless and uninsured persons; and mentally retarded persons. This collection features AFP content on the care of ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=45

Thyroiditis: Evaluation and Treatment - American Family Physician

Dec 1, 2021 - Thyroiditis is a general term for inflammation of the thyroid gland. The most common forms of thyroiditis encountered by family physicians include Hashimoto, postpartum, and subacute. Most forms of thyroiditis result in a triphasic disease pattern of thyroid dysfunction. Patients will ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/1200/p609.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

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

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

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

Recurrent Abdominal Pain in Children - American Family Physician

Jun 15, 2018 - Recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) in children is defined as at least three episodes of pain that occur over at least three months and affect the child’s ability to perform normal activities. RAP is most often considered functional (nonorganic) abdominal pain, but an organic cause is found ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0615/p785.html

Obesity - American Family Physician

Mar 17, 2022 - This collection features AFP content on obesity and related issues, including bariatric surgery, childhood obesity, diet, exercise, lifestyle counseling, and weight loss maintenance. This collection features AFP content on obesity and related issues, including bariatric surgery, ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=19

The Adult Well-Male Examination - American Family Physician

Dec 15, 2018 - The adult well-male examination should provide evidence-based guidance toward the promotion of optimal health and well-being. The medical history should focus on tobacco and alcohol use, risk of human immunodeficiency virus and other sexually transmitted infections, and diet and ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1215/p729.html

Diabetic Kidney Disease: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention - American Family Physician

Jun 15, 2019 - Globally, approximately 20% of the 400 million individuals with diabetes mellitus have diabetic kidney disease (DKD). DKD is associated with higher cardiovascular and all-cause morbidity and mortality, so timely diagnosis and treatment are critical. Screening for early DKD is best done ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0615/p751.html

Acute Bronchitis - American Family Physician

Oct 1, 2016 - Cough is the most common illness-related reason for ambulatory care visits in the United States. Acute bronchitis is a clinical diagnosis characterized by cough due to acute inflammation of the trachea and large airways without evidence of pneumonia. Pneumonia should be suspected in ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/1001/p560.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

Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Children: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family ...

Dec 1, 2021 - In the United States, pneumonia is the most common cause of hospitalization in children. Even in hospitalized children, community-acquired pneumonia is most likely of viral etiology, with respiratory syncytial virus being the most common pathogen, especially in children younger than two...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/1200/p618.html

Cervical Ripening and Induction of Labor - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2022 - Induction of labor is a common obstetric procedure, and approximately one-fourth of pregnant patients undergo the procedure. Although exercise and nipple stimulation can increase the likelihood of spontaneous labor, sexual intercourse may not be effective. Acupuncture has been used for ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0200/p177.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

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

Labor, Delivery, and Postpartum Issues - American Family Physician

May 13, 2022 - This collection features AFP content on labor, delivery, and postpartum issues and related topics, including breastfeeding, cesarean delivery, episiotomy, labor pain management, postpartum hemorrhage, preterm labor and birth, shoulder dystocia, umbilical cord blood storage, and vaginal ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=16

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

Newborn Respiratory Distress - American Family Physician

Dec 1, 2015 - Newborn respiratory distress presents a diagnostic and management challenge. Newborns with respiratory distress commonly exhibit tachypnea with a respiratory rate of more than 60 respirations per minute. They may present with grunting, retractions, nasal flaring, and cyanosis. Common ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/1201/p994.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

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

Managing Hypertension Using Combination Therapy - American Family Physician

Mar 15, 2020 - More than 70% of adults treated for primary hypertension will eventually require at least two antihypertensive agents, either initially as combination therapy or as add-on therapy if monotherapy and lifestyle modifications do not achieve adequate blood pressure control. Four main ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0315/p341.html

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

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

Osteomyelitis: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician

Oct 1, 2021 - Osteomyelitis is an inflammatory condition of bone secondary to an infectious process. Osteomyelitis is usually clinically diagnosed with support from imaging and laboratory findings. Bone biopsy and microbial cultures offer definitive diagnosis. Plain film radiography should be ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/1000/p395.html

Seizure Disorders - American Family Physician

May 13, 2022 - This collection features AFP content on seizure disorders, including antiepileptic medications, epilepsy, febrile seizures, nonepileptic seizures, seizures in the elderly, and status epilepticus. This collection features AFP content on seizure disorders, including antiepileptic ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=80

Hemoptysis: Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2022 - Hemoptysis is the expectoration of blood from the lower respiratory tract, usually from bronchial arteries. The most common causes are acute respiratory infections, cancer, bronchiectasis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. No cause is identified in 20% to 50% of cases. ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0200/p144.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

Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2022 - Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a non–insulin-dependent form of diabetes mellitus that is usually diagnosed in young adulthood. MODY is most often an autosomal dominant disease and is divided into subtypes (MODY1 to MODY14) based on the causative genetic mutation. ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0200/p162.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

Alcohol Use Disorders - American Family Physician

Apr 15, 2022 - This collection features AFP content on alcohol abuse and dependence and related issues, including alcoholism, alcohol withdrawal syndrome, and detoxification. This collection features AFP content on alcohol abuse and dependence and related issues, including alcoholism, alcohol ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=1

Telemedicine in Diabetes Care - American Family Physician

Mar 1, 2022 - Telemedicine can be useful for the management of diabetes mellitus. Remote monitoring of glucose levels improves A1C levels in people with poor glucose control. When multiple daily injections of insulin are required, continuous glucose monitoring improves glycemic control and increases ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0300/p281.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

Adenomyosis: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician

Jan 1, 2022 - Adenomyosis is a clinical condition where endometrial glands are found in the myometrium of the uterus. One in three patients with adenomyosis is asymptomatic, but the rest may present with heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or infertility. Heavy menstrual bleeding is the most ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0100/p33.html

End-of-Life Care: Managing Common Symptoms - American Family Physician

Mar 15, 2017 - Physicians should be proficient at managing symptoms as patients progress through the dying process. When possible, proactive regimens that prevent symptoms should be used, because it is generally easier to prevent than to treat an acute symptom. As swallowing function diminishes, ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0315/p356.html

Borderline Personality Disorder - American Family Physician

Feb 1, 2022 - Borderline personality disorder is a psychological disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of instability in affect regulation, impulse control, interpersonal relationships, and self-image. Borderline personality disorder may be present in up to 6.4% of adult primary care visits, ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0200/p156.html

The Preparticipation Physical Evaluation - American Family Physician

May 1, 2021 - The preparticipation physical evaluation (PPE) is a common reason for young athletes to see a primary care physician. An annual PPE is required by most state high school athletic associations for participation in school-based sports, although there is limited evidence to support its ...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2021/0501/p539.html

Cluster Headache: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family Physician

Jan 1, 2022 - Cluster headache, the most common form of trigeminal autonomic cephalgia, is a rare primary headache disorder that affects less than 1% of the population. The mean age of onset is 30 years, and it is two to three times more common in males. Cluster headache consists of attacks of severe...

American Family Physician : Article

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2022/0100/p24.html

Neonatology/Newborn Issues - American Family Physician

Dec 15, 2021 - This collection features AFP content on neonatology and newborn issues and related topics, including breastfeeding, circumcision, jaundice, newborn examination, newborn resuscitation, newborn screening, premature infant care, postpartum counseling, and well-child visits. This collection...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=18

Geriatric Care - American Family Physician

Jan 12, 2022 - This collection features AFP content on geriatric care and related issues, including assistive devices, elder mistreatment, failure to thrive, fall prevention, geriatric assessment, house calls, impaired visual acuity, and nursing home care. This collection features AFP content on ...

American Family Physician : AFP By Topic

https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=55