Common Concerns
As the Charleston heat begins to cool and the Lowcountry autumn creeps in, the “dreaded” signs begin to pop up: Flu Shot Immunizations Here! Think you can sneak by without getting vaccinated again this year? Why would you want to! Consider a few important reasons why you should take the plunge and get jabbed:…
MoreJoanne M. Gallivan, M.S., R.D.N. is a registered Dietitian Nutritionist and volunteer at Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic. Prior to joining the Clinic, she served as the Director of the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP). Many always ask: How can I reduce my grocery bill? You don’t have to spend…
MoreA recent study by the American Cancer Society found that almost half of all cancer deaths were attributed to modifiable risk factors, such as smoking. Smoking cigarettes kills more Americans than alcohol, car accidents, HIV, guns, and illegal drugs combined. While you may already know about all the risks associated…
MoreIn the midst of Hurricane Season for the Lowcountry, staying safe is the number one priority. It is critical to stay informed, especially if you or your loved ones make the decision to remain in your home during a dangerous weather event or in the face of an evacuation order. The…
MoreExcessive sugar in your diet can increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity – and all too often, we don’t even realize how much sugar we are actually consuming. As a daily rule, those consuming about 2,000 to 2,500 calories should not consume more than 25…
MoreSummer time is the perfect season to break out the grill; unfortunately, it’s also the perfect breeding ground for food borne germs and poisoning to develop. Warmer temperatures in the lowcountry, and cross contamination of meats and other produce, can easily promote the growth of bacteria causing gastrointestinal problems, diarrhea…
MoreDon’t Underestimate- Hydrate! We’re all a little guilty of passing up the daily recommended amount of water. Coffee drinks, sodas, alcohol, sweetened beverages and food often take the place of this vital element in its purest form. While water can indeed be found in many beverages and some of the…
MoreThe winter months are notorious for harboring sickness, seemingly week after week. But how do you know if it’s time to go to the doctor or just ride it out at home? You may not want to take time away from work, but you certainly don’t want to end up…
MoreYou’ve got the flu. Now what? While the flu vaccine significantly decreases your chances of catching the virus (as well as those around you – the CDC estimates that the vaccine prevents 40-60% of the general population from getting sick) it is still possible to get the flu. Symptoms of…
MoreFilling your prescriptions- especially when treating chronic illness – can put a significant dent in your monthly budget. Mary Bull, Patient Resource Coordinator at Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic – a free clinic based outside of Charleston, SC – lives up to her title when it comes to finding the…
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