Counseling Patients in Primary Care: Evidence-Based Strategies - American Family Physician
Dec 15, 2018 - Family physicians spend substantial time counseling patients with psychiatric conditions, unhealthy behaviors, and medical adherence issues. Maintaining efficiency while providing counseling is a major challenge. There are several effective, structured counseling strategies developed ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1215/p719.html
Coding: CPT -- FPM Toolbox
Feb 23, 2018 - 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
Coding: ICD-10 -- FPM Toolbox
Feb 23, 2018 - Download FPM's coding guides and cheat sheets to help you understand ICD-10 coding and select the right codes.
Family Practice Management : FPM Toolbox : Coding: ICD-10
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/toolBox/viewToolType.htm?toolTypeId=30
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
Preoperative Assessment in Older Adults: A Comprehensive Approach - American Family ...
Aug 15, 2018 - Surgical outcomes are significantly influenced by patients’ overall health, function, and life expectancy. A comprehensive geriatric preoperative assessment of older adults requires expanding beyond an organ-based or disease-based assessment. At a preoperative visit, it is important to ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0815/p214.html
Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Uncomplicated Cystitis - American Family Physician
Oct 1, 2011 - Urinary tract infections are the most common bacterial infections in women. Most urinary tract infections are acute uncomplicated cystitis. Identifiers of acute uncomplicated cystitis are frequency and dysuria in an immunocompetent woman of childbearing age who has no comorbidities or ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/1001/p771.html
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2015 - Abdominal aortic aneurysm refers to abdominal aortic dilation of 3.0 cm or greater. The main risk factors are age older than 65 years, male sex, and smoking history. Other risk factors include a family history of abdominal aortic aneurysm, coronary artery disease, hypertension, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0415/p538.html
Heart Failure Due to Reduced Ejection Fraction: Medical Management - American Family ...
Jan 1, 2017 - Heart failure is an increasingly common condition resulting in high rates of morbidity and mortality. For patients who have heart failure and reduced ejection fraction, randomized clinical trials demonstrate consistent mortality benefit from angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0101/p13.html
Lower Extremity Abnormalities in Children - American Family Physician
Aug 15, 2017 - Leg and foot problems in childhood are common causes of parental concern. Rotational problems include intoeing and out-toeing. Intoeing is most common in infants and young children. Intoeing is caused by metatarsus adductus, internal tibial torsion, and femoral anteversion. Out-toeing ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0815/p226.html
Toilet Training: Common Questions and Answers - American Family Physician
Oct 15, 2019 - Toilet training is a significant developmental milestone in early childhood. Most U.S. children achieve the physiologic, cognitive, and emotional development necessary for toilet training by 18 to 30 months of age. Markers of readiness for toilet training include being able to walk, put...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1015/p468.html
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders - American Family Physician
Oct 15, 2017 - Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) result from intrauterine exposure to alcohol and are the most common nonheritable causes of intellectual disability. The percentage of women who drink or binge drink during pregnancy has increased since 2012. FAS ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1015/p515.html
Care of the Military Veteran: Selected Health Issues - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2019 - According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 18.2 million veterans were living in the United States in 2017, of whom 1.6 million were female. Less than one-half of all veterans receive care at a Veterans Health Administration or military treatment facility, leaving most to receive services from...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1101/p544.html
Genetics - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2020 - This collection features AFP content on genetics and related issues, including family medical history, genetic testing, and specific syndromes (fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, fragile X syndrome, Down Syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome). This ...
- Counseling, Testing, and Risk Assessment
- Family History
- Pharmacogenetics
- Specific Syndromes
- Editorials and Letters
- Patient Education, Self-Care
- Other AFP Content
American Family Physician : AFP By Topic
https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=56
Initial Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa - ...
Jan 1, 2015 - Eating disorders are life-threatening conditions that are challenging to address; however, the primary care setting provides an important opportunity for critical medical and psychosocial intervention. The recently published Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0101/p46.html
Bone Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment Principles - American Family Physician
Aug 15, 2018 - Primary bone cancers include osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and chondrosarcoma. They account for less than 1% of diagnosed cancers each year and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Timely diagnosis is challenging because of late patient presentation, nonspecific ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0815/p205.html
Administrative Simplification -- FPM Topic Collection
Feb 13, 2020 - The documentation, paperwork, and quality reporting burden on physicians is immense. What can physicians do to reduce their administrative hassles, and what are organizations doing on their behalf? This FPM topic collection explores these issues. The documentation, paperwork, and ...
Family Practice Management : Topic Collections
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=112
Delirium in Older Persons: Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician
Aug 1, 2014 - Delirium is defined as an acute, fluctuating syndrome of altered attention, awareness, and cognition. It is common in older persons in the hospital and long-term care facilities and may indicate a life-threatening condition. Assessment for and prevention of delirium should occur at ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0801/p150.html
Management of Chronic Tendon Injuries - American Family Physician
Aug 1, 2019 - Chronic tendon injuries are common athletic and occupational injuries that account for many physician visits. Tendons have a complex biology that provides a unique combination of strength, flexibility, and elasticity but also predisposes them to injury. The term tendinopathy is ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0801/p147.html
AFP By Topic - American Family Physician
Feb 1, 2021 - Editors' Choice of Best Available Content
American Family Physician : AFP By Topic
https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewAll.htm
Diagnosis and Management of ADHD in Children - American Family Physician
Oct 1, 2014 - Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common behavioral disorder in children, and the prevalence is increasing. Physicians should evaluate for ADHD in children with behavioral concerns (e.g., inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, oppositionality) or poor ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/1001/p456.html
Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Pyelonephritis in Women - American Family Physician
Sep 1, 2011 - Acute pyelonephritis is a common bacterial infection of the renal pelvis and kidney most often seen in young adult women. History and physical examination are the most useful tools for diagnosis. Most patients have fever, although it may be absent early in the illness. Flank pain is ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/0901/p519.html
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Children - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2018 - The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents has increased worldwide over the past three decades. This increase has coincided with the obesity epidemic, and minority groups are disproportionately affected. The American Diabetes Association recommends screening ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1101/p590.html
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Common Questions About Diagnosis and Management - American Family...
Apr 1, 2018 - Rheumatoid arthritis is the most commonly diagnosed systemic inflammatory arthritis, with a lifetime prevalence of up to 1% worldwide. Women, smokers, and those with a family history of the disease are most often affected. Rheumatoid arthritis should be considered if there is at least ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0401/p455.html
Interventional Radiology: Indications and Best Practices - American Family Physician
May 1, 2019 - Interventional radiology employs image-guided techniques to perform minimally invasive procedures for diagnosis and treatment. Interventional radiology is often used to place central venous catheters and subcutaneous ports, with some evidence of benefit over surgical placement. Arterial...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0501/p547.html
Conduct Disorder: Recognition and Management - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2018 - Conduct disorder is a psychiatric syndrome that most commonly occurs in childhood and adolescence. It is characterized by symptoms of aggression toward people or animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, and serious violations of rules. Risk factors include male sex, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1115/p584.html
Transfusion of Blood and Blood Products: Indications and Complications - American ...
Mar 15, 2011 - Red blood cell transfusions are used to treat hemorrhage and to improve oxygen delivery to tissues. Transfusion of red blood cells should be based on the patient’s clinical condition. Indications for transfusion include symptomatic anemia (causing shortness of breath, dizziness, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/0315/p719.html
Proteinuria in Children: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis - American Family Physician
Feb 15, 2017 - Although proteinuria is usually benign in the form of transient or orthostatic proteinuria, persistent proteinuria may be associated with more serious renal diseases. Proteinuria may be an independent risk factor for the progression of chronic kidney disease in children. Mechanisms of ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0215/p248.html
Acupuncture for Pain - American Family Physician
Jul 15, 2019 - Acupuncture has been increasingly used as an integrative or complementary therapy for pain. It is well-tolerated with little risk of serious adverse effects. Traditional acupuncture and nontraditional techniques, such as electroacupuncture and dry needling, often result in reported pain...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0715/p89.html
Evaluation and Management of Neck Masses in Children - American Family Physician
Mar 1, 2014 - Neck masses in children usually fall into one of three categories: developmental, inflammatory/reactive, or neoplastic. Common congenital developmental masses in the neck include thyroglossal duct cysts, branchial cleft cysts, dermoid cysts, vascular malformations, and hemangiomas. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0301/p353.html
Electronic Cigarettes: Common Questions and Answers - American Family Physician
Aug 15, 2019 - Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are popular devices designed to heat a liquid solution, often containing nicotine, that generates an inhaled aerosol, or vapor. e-Cigarettes have been marketed as healthier alternatives to traditional cigarettes. Thus, most adult users are current or...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0815/p227.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
Specific Learning Disabilities: The Family Physician's Role - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2019 - Academic underachievement, such as failing a class and the threat of being held back because of academic issues, is common. Family physicians can provide support and guidance for families as they approach their child’s unique academic challenges. Specific learning disabilities are a ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1115/p628.html
Primary Care for Persons Who Inject Drugs - American Family Physician
Jan 15, 2019 - More than 750,000 persons in the United States inject opioids, methamphetamine, cocaine, or ketamine, and that number is increasing because of the current opioid epidemic. Persons who inject drugs (PWID) are at higher risk of infectious and noninfectious skin, pulmonary, cardiac, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0115/p109.html
Recognition and Differential Diagnosis of Psychosis in Primary Care - American Family ...
Jun 15, 2015 - Psychosis is a symptom complex that may include hallucinations, delusions, disorders of thought, and disorganized speech or behavior. Acute psychosis is primary if it is symptomatic of a psychiatric disorder, or secondary if caused by a specific medical condition. Patients with primary ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0615/p856.html
Common Foot Problems: Over-the-Counter Treatments and Home Care - American Family ...
Sep 1, 2018 - Most foot disorders do not require podiatry referral or complex interventions. After the clinical diagnosis is made, these conditions can typically be managed with over-the-counter (OTC) and home remedies, with guidance from the primary care physician. Stretching and strengthening ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0901/p298.html
Adolescent Substance Use and Misuse: Recognition and Management - American Family ...
Jun 1, 2019 - Adolescent use of illicit substances imposes an enormous burden on individuals, families, and communities. The types of illicit substances adolescents are using have changed drastically over the past decade with decreases in alcohol use (including binge alcohol use) offset by increases ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0601/p689.html
Diagnosis and Initial Management of Dysmenorrhea - American Family Physician
Mar 1, 2014 - Dysmenorrhea is one of the most common causes of pelvic pain. It negatively affects patients’ quality of life and sometimes results in activity restriction. A history and physical examination, including a pelvic examination in patients who have had vaginal intercourse, may reveal the ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0301/p341.html
Cardiomyopathy: An Overview - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2017 - The definition and classification of cardiomyopathy have evolved considerably in recent years. Cardiomyopathy can be separated into primary (genetic, mixed, or acquired) and secondary categories, which result in varied phenotypes including dilated, hypertrophic, and restrictive ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1115/p640.html
Health Maintenance in School-Aged Children: Part I. History, Physical Examination, ...
Aug 15, 2019 - The goals of the health maintenance visit in school-aged children (five to 12 years) are promoting health, detecting disease, and counseling to prevent injury and future health problems. During the visit, the physician should address patient and parent/caregiver concerns and ask about ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0815/p213.html
Acute Shoulder Injuries in Adults - American Family Physician
Jul 15, 2016 - Acute shoulder injuries in adults are often initially managed by family physicians. Common acute shoulder injuries include acromioclavicular joint injuries, clavicle fractures, glenohumeral dislocations, proximal humerus fractures, and rotator cuff tears. Acromioclavicular joint ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0715/p119.html
Hypothyroidism: An Update - American Family Physician
Aug 1, 2012 - Hypothyroidism is a clinical disorder commonly encountered by the primary care physician. Untreated hypothyroidism can contribute to hypertension, dyslipidemia, infertility, cognitive impairment, and neuromuscular dysfunction. Data derived from the National Health and Nutrition ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2012/0801/p244.html
Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux in Infants and Children - American ...
Oct 15, 2015 - Gastroesophageal reflux is defined as the passage of stomach contents into the esophagus with or without accompanied regurgitation (spitting up) and vomiting. It is a normal physiologic process that occurs throughout the day in infants and less often in children and adolescents. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/1015/p705.html
The Changing Climate: Managing Health Impacts - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2019 - Concentrations of greenhouse gases continue to accumulate in the atmosphere at increasing rates, heating the Earth’s surface and destabilizing climate. Health impacts from climate change may include increased morbidity and mortality from worsening cardiopulmonary health, worsening ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1115/p618.html
Heat-Related Illnesses - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2019 - Heat-related illnesses comprise a spectrum of syndromes resulting from disruption of thermoregulation in people exposed to high environmental heat. Symptoms range from heat edema and exercise-associated muscle cramps to exercise-associated collapse, heat exhaustion, and life-threatening...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0415/p482.html
Diagnosis and Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections in Children - American Family ...
Feb 15, 2011 - Acute urinary tract infections are relatively common in children, with 8 percent of girls and 2 percent of boys having at least one episode by seven years of age. The most common pathogen is Escherichia coli, accounting for approximately 85 percent of urinary tract infections in ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/0215/p409.html
Caregiver Care - American Family Physician
Jun 1, 2019 - Eighty percent of adults requiring long-term care currently live at home in the community, and unpaid family caregivers provide 90% of their care. Family caregivers serve as a critical extension of the U.S. health care system, and the demand for family caregivers is expected to increase...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0601/p699.html
Osteoarthritis: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2018 - Osteoarthritis (OA) should be suspected in patients with pain in the fingers, shoulders, hips, knees, or ankles, especially if they are older than 40 years. Patients older than 50 years who have joint pain, minimal morning stiffness, and functional impairment likely have OA. Radiography...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0415/p523.html
Stuttering: Understanding and Treating a Common Disability - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2019 - Childhood-onset fluency disorder, the most common form of stuttering, is a neurologic disability resulting from an underlying brain abnormality that causes disfluent speech. Stuttering can lead to significant secondary effects, including negative self-perception and negative perception ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1101/p556.html
Testicular Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician
Feb 15, 2018 - Testicular cancer is the most common solid tumor among males 15 to 34 years of age, with an estimated 8,850 new cases and 410 deaths during 2017 in the United States. With effective treatment, the overall five-year survival rate is 97%. Risk factors for testicular cancer include ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0215/p261.html
Health Maintenance in School-Aged Children: Part II. Counseling Recommendations - ...
Aug 15, 2019 - School-aged children (five to 12 years) are establishing patterns of behavior that may last a lifetime; therefore, during health maintenance visits, it is important to counsel families on healthy lifestyle practices. Children should eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0815/p219.html
Trauma in Pregnancy: Assessment, Management, and Prevention - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2014 - Trauma complicates one in 12 pregnancies, and is the leading nonobstetric cause of death among pregnant women. The most common traumatic injuries are motor vehicle crashes, assaults, falls, and intimate partner violence. Nine out of 10 traumatic injuries during pregnancy are classified ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/1115/p717.html
Evaluation and Treatment of Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia - American Family Physician
Jun 1, 2014 - Although neonatal jaundice is common, acute bilirubin encephalopathy and kernicterus (i.e., chronic bilirubin encephalopathy) are rare. Universal screening for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is controversial. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends universal screening with bilirubin ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0601/p873.html
Evaluation of Syncope - American Family Physician
Sep 15, 2011 - Syncope is a transient and abrupt loss of consciousness with complete return to preexisting neurologic function. It is classified as neurally mediated (i.e., carotid sinus hypersensitivity, situational, or vasovagal), cardiac, orthostatic, or neurogenic. Older adults are more likely to ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/0915/p640.html
Buprenorphine Therapy for Opioid Use Disorder - American Family Physician
Mar 1, 2018 - Opioid misuse, including the use of heroin and the overprescribing, misuse, and diversion of opioid pain medications, has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. As a result, there has been a dramatic increase in opioid use disorder and associated overdoses and deaths. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0301/p313.html
Diagnosis and Management of Adnexal Masses - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2016 - Adnexal masses can have gynecologic or nongynecologic etiologies, ranging from normal luteal cysts to ovarian cancer to bowel abscesses. Women who report abdominal or pelvic pain, increased abdominal size or bloating, difficulty eating, or rapid satiety that occurs more than 12 times ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0415/p676.html
Common Running Injuries: Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2018 - Running is a common form of exercise but predisposes athletes to several running-related injuries. Most running injuries are due to overuse and respond to conservative treatment. Tendinopathies in the patellar, Achilles, and hamstring tendons are common, and are primarily treated with ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0415/p510.html
Common Questions About Streptococcal Pharyngitis - American Family Physician
Jul 1, 2016 - Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal (GABHS) infection causes 15% to 30% of sore throats in children and 5% to 15% in adults, and is more common in the late winter and early spring. The strongest independent predictors of GABHS pharyngitis are patient age of five to 15 years, absence of...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0701/p24.html
Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections in Women: Diagnosis and Management - American Family...
Sep 15, 2010 - Recurrent urinary tract infections, presenting as dysuria or irritative voiding symptoms, are most commonly caused by reinfection with the original bacterial isolate in young, otherwise healthy women with no anatomic or functional abnormalities of the urinary tract. Frequency of sexual ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2010/0915/p638.html
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2015 - Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic illness that can cause marked distress and disability. It is a complex disorder with a variety of manifestations and symptom dimensions, some of which are underrecognized. Early recognition and treatment with OCD-specific therapies may ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/1115/p896.html
Diagnosis and Management of Osteomyelitis - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2011 - The incidence of chronic osteomyelitis is increasing because of the prevalence of predisposing conditions such as diabetes mellitus and peripheral vascular disease. The increased availability of sensitive imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging and bone scintigraphy, has ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/1101/p1027.html
Insulin Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus - American Family Physician
Jul 15, 2011 - Insulin therapy is recommended for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and an initial A1C level greater than 9 percent, or if diabetes is uncontrolled despite optimal oral glycemic therapy. Insulin therapy may be initiated as augmentation, starting at 0.3 unit per kg, or as ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/0715/p183.html
Inguinal Hernias: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Jun 15, 2013 - Inguinal hernias are one of the most common reasons a primary care patient may need referral for surgical intervention. The history and physical examination are usually sufficient to make the diagnosis. Symptomatic patients often have groin pain, which can sometimes be severe. Inguinal ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/0615/p844.html
Nocturnal Leg Cramps - American Family Physician
Aug 15, 2012 - Up to 60 percent of adults report that they have had nocturnal leg cramps. The recurrent, painful tightening usually occurs in the calf muscles and can cause severe insomnia. The exact mechanism is unknown, but the cramps are probably caused by muscle fatigue and nerve dysfunction ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2012/0815/p350.html
Top POEMs of 2018 Consistent with the Principles of the Choosing Wisely Campaign - ...
Sep 1, 2019 - In this article, we discuss the POEMs (patient-oriented evidence that matters) of 2018 judged to be most consistent with the principles of the Choosing Wisely campaign. We selected these POEMs through a crowdsourcing strategy of the daily POEMs information service for Canadian Medical ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0901/p290.html
Hoarseness in Adults - American Family Physician
Dec 1, 2017 - Hoarseness is a common presentation in primary care practices. Combined with other voice-related changes, it falls under the umbrella diagnosis of dysphonia. Hoarseness has a number of causes, ranging from simple inflammatory processes to less common psychiatric disorders to more ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1201/p720.html
Common Questions About Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections in Women - American Family ...
Apr 1, 2016 - Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in women, including healthy women with normal genitourinary anatomy. Recurrent UTI is typically defined as three or more UTIs within 12 months, or two or more occurrences within six months. The same species that caused previous ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0401/p560.html
Common Finger Fractures and Dislocations - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2012 - Finger fractures and dislocations are common injuries that are often managed by family physicians. A systematic physical examination is imperative to avoid complications and poor outcomes following these injuries. Radiography (commonly anteroposterior, true lateral, and oblique views) ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2012/0415/p805.html
The Preparticipation Sports Evaluation - American Family Physician
Sep 1, 2015 - The preparticipation physical evaluation is a commonly requested medical visit for amateur and professional athletes of all ages. The overarching goal is to maximize the health of athletes and their safe participation in sports. Although studies have not found that the preparticipation ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0901/p371.html
Inborn Errors of Metabolism: From Preconception to Adulthood - American Family Physician
Jan 1, 2019 - Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM), although individually rare, occur in 1 out of every 1,500 births. The first opportunity to detect IEM occurs during preconception counseling, when pregnant women and couples considering future pregnancies can undergo carrier screening. For individuals ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0101/p25.html
Braces and Splints for Common Musculoskeletal Conditions - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2018 - Braces and splints can immobilize and protect joints, reduce pain, decrease swelling, and facilitate healing of acute injuries. They are also used for injury prevention and chronic pain reduction, and to alter the function of a joint. The medial unloading (valgus) knee brace is an ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1115/p570.html
Evaluation and Treatment of Infertility - American Family Physician
Mar 1, 2015 - Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. Evaluation may be initiated sooner in patients who have risk factors for infertility or if the female partner is older than 35 years. Causes of infertility include male ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0301/p308.html
Diagnosis and Treatment of Lichen Planus - American Family Physician
Jul 1, 2011 - Lichen planus is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease that affects the skin, oral mucosa, genital mucosa, scalp, and nails. Lichen planus lesions are described using the six P’s (planar [flat-topped], purple, polygonal, pruritic, papules, plaques). Onset is usually acute, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/0701/p53.html
Diagnosis of Heel Pain - American Family Physician
Oct 15, 2011 - Heel pain is a common presenting symptom in ambulatory clinics. There are many causes, but a mechanical etiology is most common. Location of pain can be a guide to the proper diagnosis. The most common diagnosis is plantar fasciitis, a condition that leads to medial plantar heel pain, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/1015/p909.html
Prostate Disorders - American Family Physician
Jun 1, 2019 - This collection features content on prostates disorders and related issues, including benign prostatic hyperplasia, hematospermia, and prostatitis. This collection features content on prostates disorders and related issues, including benign prostatic hyperplasia, hematospermia, and ...
American Family Physician : AFP By Topic
https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=97
Manipulative Therapies: What Works - American Family Physician
Feb 15, 2019 - Manipulative therapies include osteopathic manipulative treatment and many other forms of manual therapies used to manage a variety of conditions in adults and children. Spinal manipulative therapy may provide short-term improvement in patients with acute or chronic low back pain, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0215/p248.html
Causes and Evaluation of Mildly Elevated Liver Transaminase Levels - American Family ...
Nov 1, 2011 - Mild elevations in levels of the liver enzymes alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase are commonly discovered in asymptomatic patients in primary care. Evidence to guide the diagnostic workup is limited. If the history and physical examination do not suggest a cause, a stepwise...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/1101/p1003.html
Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Feb 1, 2014 - Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form of scoliosis, affecting approximately 2% to 4% of adolescents. The incidence of scoliosis is about the same in males and females; however, females have up to a 10-fold greater risk of curve progression. Although most youths with ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0201/p193.html
Epilepsy: Treatment Options - American Family Physician
Jul 15, 2017 - The occurrence of a single seizure does not always require initiation of antiepileptic drugs. Risk of recurrent seizures should guide their use. In adults, key risk factors for recurrence are two unprovoked seizures occurring more than 24 hours apart, epileptiform abnormalities on ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0715/p87.html
Current Concepts in Adult Acute Rhinosinusitis - American Family Physician
Jul 15, 2016 - Acute rhinosinusitis is one of the most common conditions that physicians treat in ambulatory care. Most cases of acute rhinosinusitis are caused by viral upper respiratory infections. A meta-analysis based on individual patient data found that common clinical signs and symptoms were ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0715/p97.html
Breast Disorders - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2019 - This collection features content on breast disorders and related issues, including breast cyst aspiration, breast masses, breast pain, galactorrhea, gynecomastia, and mastitis. This collection features content on breast disorders and related issues, including breast cyst aspiration, ...
- Overview
- Screening, Diagnosis, and Prevention
- Treatment
- Complications and Special Situations
- Patient Education, Self-Care
American Family Physician : AFP By Topic
https://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=96
Clinical Decision Tools -- FPM Toolbox
Apr 27, 2016 - Download algorithms, calculators, and other tools to help you treat hypertension, adjust warfarin levels, and more.
Family Practice Management : FPM Toolbox : Clinical Decision Tools
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/toolBox/viewToolType.htm?toolTypeId=29
Diagnosis and Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis - American Family Physician
Dec 1, 2011 - Rheumatoid arthritis is the most commonly diagnosed systemic inflammatory arthritis. Women, smokers, and those with a family history of the disease are most often affected. Criteria for diagnosis include having at least one joint with definite swelling that is not explained by another ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/1201/p1245.html
School Absenteeism in Children and Adolescents - American Family Physician
Dec 15, 2018 - Frequent school absenteeism has immediate and long-term negative effects on academic performance, social functioning, high school and college graduation rates, adult income, health, and life expectancy. Previous research focused on distinguishing between truancy and anxiety-driven ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1215/p738.html
Primary Care of Breast Cancer Survivors - American Family Physician
Mar 15, 2019 - With declining mortality rates, the number of breast cancer survivors is increasing. Ongoing care after breast cancer treatment is often provided by primary care physicians. This care includes surveillance for cancer recurrence with a history and physical examination every three to six ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0315/p370.html
Top 20 Research Studies of 2018 for Primary Care Physicians - American Family Physician
May 1, 2019 - In 2018, through regular surveillance of more than 110 English-language research journals, 255 research studies met the criteria to become POEMs (patient-oriented evidence that matters). Using a validated tool, physician members of the Canadian Medical Association rated these POEMs for ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0501/p565.html
Genital Herpes: A Review - American Family Physician
Jun 1, 2016 - Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease, affecting more than 400 million persons worldwide. It is caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) and characterized by lifelong infection and periodic reactivation. A visible outbreak consists of single or clustered vesicles on the ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0601/p928.html
Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy - American Family Physician
Jun 15, 2014 - Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy affects nearly 75% of pregnant women. The exact cause is unknown. In most cases, it is a mild, self-limited condition that can be controlled with conservative measures and has no adverse fetal sequelae. About 1% of women develop hyperemesis gravidarum, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0615/p965.html
Treating Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: An Update - American Family Physician
Aug 1, 2016 - Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy occurs in approximately 25% of patients with diabetes mellitus who are treated in the office setting and significantly affects quality of life. It typically causes burning pain, paresthesias, and numbness in a stocking-glove pattern that progresses...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0801/p227.html
Bladder Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician
Oct 15, 2017 - Bladder cancer is the sixth most prevalent malignancy in the United States and causes more than 16,000 deaths annually. The most common clinical presentation is asymptomatic hematuria, which should prompt evaluation with cystoscopy, renal function testing, and upper urinary tract ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1015/p507.html
Right Care for Children: Top Five Do's and Don'ts - American Family Physician
Mar 15, 2019 - Underuse and overuse of medical interventions, failure to use interventions known to be effective, and provision of tests or interventions in which benefits do not exceed harms are types of low-value care. The Lown Institute’s Right Care Alliance Children’s Health Council identified ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0315/p376.html
Diagnosis and Management of Genital Ulcers - American Family Physician
Feb 1, 2012 - Herpes simplex virus infection and syphilis are the most common causes of genital ulcers in the United States. Other infectious causes include chancroid, lymphogranuloma venereum, granuloma inguinale (donovanosis), secondary bacterial infections, and fungi. Noninfectious etiologies, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2012/0201/p254.html
Diagnostic Approach to Patients with Tinnitus - American Family Physician
Jan 15, 2014 - Tinnitus, a common symptom encountered in family medicine, is defined as the perception of noise in the absence of an acoustic stimulus outside of the body. Because tinnitus is a symptom and not a disease, its underlying cause must be determined to best help patients. Although tinnitus ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0115/p106.html
Care of Incarcerated Patients - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2018 - The United States has the highest incarceration rate of any nation in the world. Approximately 870 of every 100,000 U.S. citizens are currently in jails or prisons. U.S. inmates are disproportionately young males, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons of low socioeconomic status. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1115/p577.html
Testicular Torsion: Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Management - American Family Physician
Dec 15, 2013 - Testicular torsion is a twisting of the spermatic cord and its contents and is a surgical emergency affecting 3.8 per 100,000 males younger than 18 years annually. It accounts for 10% to 15% of acute scrotal disease in children, and results in an orchiectomy rate of 42% in boys ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/1215/p835.html
Alzheimer Disease: Pharmacologic and Nonpharmacologic Therapies for Cognitive and ...
Jun 15, 2017 - Alzheimer disease comprises a syndrome of progressive cognitive and functional decline. Treatments should target cognitive and functional symptoms. Cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, and a combination of a cholinesterase inhibitor and memantine have produced statistically significant...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0615/p771.html
Common Questions About Wound Care - American Family Physician
Jan 15, 2015 - Lacerations, abrasions, burns, and puncture wounds are common in the outpatient setting. Because wounds can quickly become infected, the most important aspect of treating a minor wound is irrigation and cleaning. There is no evidence that antiseptic irrigation is superior to sterile ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0115/p86.html
Long-Acting Reversible Contraception: Difficult Insertions and Removals - American ...
Sep 1, 2018 - The use of long-acting reversible contraception is on the rise across the United States and has contributed to a decrease in teen pregnancies. With the increased use of long-acting reversible contraception, physicians may encounter difficult insertions and removals of intrauterine ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0901/p304.html
Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Low Back Pain - American Family Physician
Feb 15, 2012 - Acute low back pain is one of the most common reasons for adults to see a family physician. Although most patients recover quickly with minimal treatment, proper evaluation is imperative to identify rare cases of serious underlying pathology. Certain red flags should prompt aggressive ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2012/0215/p343.html
Charcot Foot: Clinical Clues, Diagnostic Strategies, and Treatment Principles - ...
May 1, 2018 - Acute Charcot neuroarthropathy of the foot and ankle is often difficult to diagnose because of limited findings in the patient history, physical examination, imaging, and laboratory studies. Delay in treatment results in the development of rigid foot and ankle deformities, increasing ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0501/p594.html
Outpatient Management of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2013 - Approximately 2% to 9% of patients seen in a family physician’s office have alcohol dependence. These patients are at risk of developing alcohol withdrawal syndrome if they abruptly abstain from alcohol use. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome begins six to 24 hours after the last intake of ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/1101/p589.html