1st Choice Med Care Blog

 When you have a cut, scrape, or any other type of wound, you may notice itching as it heals. This is completely normal and is often a sign of recovery. But why does it happen? Let’s take a closer look at the stages of wound healing and why itching occurs. Why Does a Healing Wound Itch? As your skin repairs itself, your body goes through several phases. The itching sensation is mainly caused by new skin cells forming, nerve endings regenerating, and increased blood flow to the wound. This can create a tingling or itchy feeling, which is actually a good thing—it means your body is doing its job! Some key reasons for itching include: Histamine release – Your immune system triggers histamines to promote healing, which can cause itchiness. Scab formation – As the wound dries, the stretching skin underneath can lead to an itchy feeling. New skin growth – Fresh skin cells form, causing a mild tingling sensation. Stages of Wound Healing Healing happens in four main stages: Hemostas...

 Medical sewing services play a crucial role in healthcare by providing high-quality stitching solutions for various medical needs. From surgical sutures to wound closures, these services ensure precision, safety, and comfort for patients. Whether it's a minor cut or a deep wound, medical sewing techniques are essential for proper healing. Why Are Medical Sewing Services Important? Medical sewing is more than just closing a wound—it prevents infections, promotes faster healing, and minimizes scarring. Expertly stitched wounds can significantly reduce complications and help patients recover more comfortably. This service is especially important for emergency care, post-surgery treatment, and specialized wound management. Types of Medical Sewing Services There are different types of medical stitching techniques used depending on the wound type and location. Some of the most common include: Surgical Sutures: Used for deep wounds and incisions, ensuring long-term wound stability. ...

 Bronchitis causes inflammation in the airways , leading to coughing, mucus buildup, and breathing difficulties . Treatment depends on whether it’s acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) . Rest and Hydration Getting plenty of rest allows your body to fight off infection. Drink lots of fluids to help thin mucus , making it easier to clear from your lungs. Warm teas, broths, and water are best. Use a Humidifier or Steam Breathing in warm, moist air can soothe irritated airways and loosen mucus. Taking a hot shower or using a humidifier can make breathing easier. Medications for Relief Over-the-counter cough suppressants help control persistent coughing. Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen reduce fever and discomfort. Inhalers or steroids may be prescribed for severe cases. Bronchitis Treatment in Naperville for Lasting Relief If your symptoms worsen, last more than three weeks, or come with high fever or shortness of breath , professional care is needed. Bron...

 Diarrhea can be uncomfortable and disrupt daily life , but there are simple ways to manage it. Whether caused by food, infections, or stress, the key is to stay hydrated and allow your body to recover . Drink Plenty of Fluids Diarrhea causes loss of fluids and electrolytes , so drinking water, broth, or electrolyte solutions helps prevent dehydration. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks , as they can make symptoms worse. Eat Gentle, Binding Foods Stick to the BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast . These foods are easy on the stomach and help firm up stools . Avoid spicy, greasy, or dairy-heavy meals until digestion improves. Consider Over-the-Counter Medications For quick relief, medications like loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can help slow bowel movements. However, if diarrhea is due to infection, fever, or lasts more than two days , it's best to consult a doctor . Diarrhea Treatments Naperville for Fast Relief If diarrhea persis...

 An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a simple, painless test that checks how your heart is working by recording its electrical activity. Doctors use it to detect irregular heartbeats, heart disease, or other heart-related issues . How an EKG Records Heart Activity An EKG works by placing small electrodes on your chest, arms, and legs . These sensors pick up electrical signals from your heart and send them to a machine that displays the data as waves on a screen or paper . What the Results Show The EKG graph shows how fast your heart beats, if it beats regularly, and whether the electrical signals flow properly . Doctors analyze these patterns to spot any signs of heart conditions like arrhythmias or blocked arteries . EKG Tests Naperville and Heart Health For those experiencing chest pain, dizziness, or an irregular heartbeat, EKG Tests Naperville can provide quick and accurate heart monitoring. Getting tested early can help detect problems before they become serious, ensuring proper...

 Ensuring a drug-free workplace is essential for safety, productivity, and compliance. Many employers in Naperville use drug testing services to screen job candidates, conduct routine employee tests, or meet industry regulations . Why Employers Need Drug Testing Workplace Safety – Employees under the influence of drugs can cause accidents, reduce efficiency, and create risks for others . Legal Compliance – Many industries, like transportation, healthcare, and government jobs , require drug testing to meet state and federal guidelines . Improved Productivity – A drug-free workforce leads to fewer absences, better performance, and a more reliable team . Types of Drug Tests Offered Employers can choose from different testing methods, including: Pre-employment drug testing to ensure candidates meet company standards. Random testing to prevent drug use in the workplace. Post-accident testing to determine if substances played a role in a workplace incident. Occupational Drug Test...

An EKG (electrocardiogram) is a simple test that checks the electrical activity of the heart. Doctors use it to detect heart conditions, monitor health, and ensure safety in certain jobs. Here are three common reasons why someone might need an EKG. 1. Checking for Heart Problems If a person experiences chest pain, dizziness, or irregular heartbeats , an EKG helps determine if the heart is working properly. It can detect heart attacks, arrhythmias, and other serious conditions . 2. Routine Health Screenings Some people get an EKG as part of a regular check-up , especially if they have high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease . This test helps catch heart issues early before they become severe. 3. Workplace & Occupational Testing Certain jobs, such as those in public safety, transportation, or physically demanding industries , require an EKG to ensure workers are healthy enough to perform their duties . Employers may include EKGs in pre-employment health...

 Drug testing is common in workplaces, law enforcement, and healthcare across Chicago. The city follows federal and state guidelines to ensure safety in jobs, public services, and legal matters. The type of drugs tested depends on the purpose of the screening. Commonly Tested Drugs Most drug tests check for substances that can affect work performance, safety, or legal status . These often include: Marijuana (THC) – Despite legalization, some jobs still require testing. Cocaine – A stimulant that affects the nervous system. Opiates (Heroin, Morphine, Codeine) – Strong painkillers that can be misused. Methamphetamine – A powerful and addictive stimulant. Benzodiazepines – Prescribed for anxiety but tested for misuse. Where Is Drug Testing Required? Many workplaces in Chicago , such as government offices, transportation, healthcare, and safety-sensitive industries , conduct regular drug tests. Law enforcement and courts also require testing for legal cases or probation monitori...

A scrape, also known as an abrasion , is a type of skin injury where the top layer of skin gets rubbed off . It usually happens due to friction against a rough surface, like falling on pavement or scraping against a sharp object. How Does a Scrape Look? Scrapes vary in severity depending on how deep the skin is affected. A mild scrape may cause redness and slight bleeding , while a deeper one can be painful, swollen, and take longer to heal . Unlike cuts, scrapes don’t go deep enough to damage muscles or tissues . Common Causes of Scrapes Falls and accidents – Tripping or slipping on hard surfaces. Sports injuries – Contact with rough ground or equipment. Everyday activities – Bumping against sharp objects or furniture. Scraping Medical Term and Its Use In medical terms, scraping refers to a process where a doctor removes tissue, cells, or debris from the skin or an organ . The term scraping medical term is often associated with procedures like skin biopsies, dental cleanings, o...

 Dissolvable stitches, also called absorbable sutures, are designed to break down naturally in the body over time. They are often used for internal wounds, surgeries, or areas that heal quickly. The time they take to dissolve depends on the type of stitches and where they are placed. How Long Do They Last? Most dissolvable stitches start breaking down within a few days to a few weeks . Some may take a couple of months to fully dissolve, depending on the material used. Factors like wound size, location, and overall health also affect how fast they disappear. What Affects Stitch Dissolving Time? Type of stitch material – Some break down faster than others. Location of stitches – Areas with more movement may take longer to heal. Body’s healing process – Faster healing means quicker stitch absorption. Dissolvable Stitches and Proper Care Taking care of your dissolvable stitches is essential for proper healing. Keeping the wound clean and avoiding unnecessary stress on the stit...

An abscess is a painful, swollen lump filled with pus, usually caused by an infection. It can form anywhere on the body, including the skin, gums, or inside the body. Recognizing an abscess early can help prevent serious complications. Signs of an Abscess An abscess often appears as a red, swollen, and tender area on the skin. It may feel warm to the touch and continue to grow over time. As it worsens, you might notice: A visible pus-filled bump Intense pain and swelling A white or yellow center that may burst Different Types of Abscesses Skin Abscess This is the most common type and usually forms due to bacteria entering a cut or wound . It looks like a painful, red lump and can fill with pus over time. Dental Abscess A tooth infection can lead to an abscess in the gums or jaw, causing severe tooth pain, swelling, and a bad taste in the mouth . Internal Abscess These develop inside the body, affecting organs like the liver or abdomen. They are harder to detect and may cause feve...

 Strep throat is a painful infection that not only causes a sore throat but also brings extreme fatigue. Feeling drained and exhausted is common when your body is fighting off the infection. But how long does this tiredness actually last? Understanding Strep Throat Fatigue When you have strep throat, your immune system works overtime to fight the bacteria. This battle inside your body leads to fatigue, body aches, and weakness. The fatigue usually lasts about 2 to 5 days , depending on how quickly your body recovers. Does Treatment Affect Fatigue? Yes! Starting antibiotics early can shorten the duration of strep throat and help reduce fatigue faster. Most people feel improvement within 24 to 48 hours after beginning medication. However, if left untreated, strep throat can linger, making exhaustion last even longer. Other Factors That Affect Recovery Several things can impact how long you feel tired: Your immune system: If it's strong, you’ll recover faster. Rest and hydration:...