Just as we start pulling out our cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice recipies, flu season sneaks in. Flu season is one of those annual challenges we all face, and while the flu can be a major inconvenience for some, for others, especially the young, elderly, or those with compromised immune systems, it can be severe or even life-threatening. Dr. Amrendra Kumar and Kasey Hudson at MD First Primary & Urgent Care understand these risks and have seen firsthand the importance of preventive measures. In this article, we’re here to provide you with some down-to-earth advice and essential habits to help fend off this pesky invader and keep you healthy!

Healthy Habits: Building a Resilient Shield Against Flu

Sometimes the flu starts pretending it’s just a little cold, being all sneaky, but then it hits you full force. It sneaks in quietly, often disguised as a minor cold, before making itself loudly known with a medley of aches, sneezes, and shivers. The worst part? No one’s truly immune. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student with back-to-back classes, or someone just trying to navigate daily life, the flu can throw a major wrench in the works. 

Signs of the Flu:

• Unexpected chills or fevers
• That never-ending cough
• A throat that feels like sandpaper
• A nose that can’t make up its mind (runny or stuffy?)
• A body that’s taken a beating
• Feeling like you’ve run a marathon (without the medal)
• A nagging headache

Having these symptoms doesn’t guarantee it’s the flu, but prevention is better than cure, and here are some habits you can adopt to guard against the flu:

Healthy Habits to Ward Off the Flu:

• Vaccination: Getting the annual flu vaccine is the single most effective way to prevent the flu.
• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap for at least 20 seconds.
• Stay Away from the Sick: If someone is ill, try to maintain some distance to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Keep Your Environment Clean: Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, phones, and remote controls.
• Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and ample sleep can boost your immune system, making you less susceptible to illnesses.
• Avoid Touching Face: Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as this is a common way for viruses to enter the body.

Empower Your Immune System Through Informed Choices: A Roadmap to Wellness

If you’re feeling a bit under the weather or just want to prep for battle, our dynamic duo, Dr. Kumar and Kasey Hudson are here in Lancaster, SC, ready to back you up. Dr. Amrendra Kumar, Kasey Hudson, and the dedicated team at MD First Primary & Urgent Care in Lancaster, SC, are always ready to assist you. Their expertise and compassionate care ensure you get the right treatment at the right time. If you’re experiencing flu-like symptoms or want guidance on prevention, don’t hesitate.

Reach out to us at (803) 283-2300. Your health and well-being are paramount to us. So, before the flu knocks on your door, knock on ours! Let’s work together to make this flu season a breeze for you and your family.

As fall settles in and the chill of winter begins touching our doorsteps, parents often gear up for the cold and flu season. But another culprit lurking in these seasons can make our children more than uncomfortable, and that’s fall and winter allergies. At MD First Primary & Urgent Care, Amrendra Kumar and Kasey Hudson have helped numerous children in our clinic resolve and treat these fall and winter allergy symptoms. In this article, we seek to help educate parents on the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for these seasonal allergies. 

When Sneezes Aren’t Just About the Freeze: What are Fall and Winter Allergies? 

Seasonal allergies can manifest in many ways in children, no matter the season. As the leave fall and winter frost begins, there are specific allergies that become more prevalent, affecting children with these sensitivities. Some of the symptoms that you should look out for as a parent include: 

• Constant sneezing
• A nose that won’t stop running
• Eyes that resemble a leaky faucet
• A cough that isn’t flu-related
• An itchy nose
• Unexpected skin reactions 

Check if keeping windows shut during high pollen days or cleaning out the heating vents makes a difference. If those sneezes and sniffles persist, over-the-counter antihistamines might come in handy. If you’re feeling out of your depth, it’s time to ring up the professionals. Dr. Kumar and Kasey Hudson aren’t just experts; they’re parents’ best allies when allergies ambush our kids. They can not only recommend stronger treatments but also pinpoint the sneaky allergens with specialized tests.

Navigating the maze of childhood illnesses and symptoms is no child’s play (pun intended!). With the knowledge from the section above, parents can make informed decisions about their child’s health. But remember, self-diagnosis and treatment can sometimes lead to more complications.

Just as they have their personalities, their reactions to allergens can vary widely, too. Watching them play freely, unburdened by irritating allergies is always heartening. So, let’s partner up and tackle these sneezy seasons head-on. Dr. Kumar, Kasey Hudson, and the MD First Primary & Urgent Care team are your community’s support system. We believe in not just curing but caring. 

Visit MD First Primary & Urgent Care for Comprehensive Allergy Care

Located in Lancaster, SC, MD, First Primary & Urgent Care, led by Dr. Amrendra Kumar and Kasey Hudson, has been at the forefront of diagnosing and treating seasonal allergies in children. Their expertise ensures your child gets the best care, catering to their unique needs. If you notice any allergy-related symptoms in your child or if you’re uncertain about the best course of action, it’s essential to seek professional guidance.

Dr. Kumar, Kasey Hudson, and their MD First Primary & Urgent Care team in Lancaster, SC, are just a call away. Always remember it’s better to be safe and get professional advice when in doubt. Contact MD First Primary & Urgent Care at (803) 283-2300. Your child’s health is our priority; our team is here to help. Don’t let seasonal allergies make your child’s fall and winter months uncomfortable. Seek the proper care right when you need it.

Autism spectrum disorders encompass various characteristics with varying degrees of impairments in social interactions, communication skills, and often repetitive behaviors. As a developmental disability, it can completely alter how one thinks and understands the world, and as a spectrum, every autistic person is different. As a parent, it’s important to know what autism is and how it can affect your child, and at MD First Primary & Urgent Care, we can provide effective support for children and families when identifying and treating health concerns for autistic patients. 

What Does it Mean For Your Child To Have Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autistic people think differently from non-autistic people, often experiencing differences in sensory processing with vision, touch, hearing, smell, and taste. When a child has autism, they experience the world differently and therefore engage in their world through how they interpret things. Every autistic child is different; that’s why autism is referred to as a spectrum, as it encompasses different symptoms and characteristics that vary according to each person’s experience. 

However, when psychiatrists diagnose autism, certain characteristics can be traced. These include: 

• Poor Eye Contact: Many autistic children experience difficulties with eye contact, as eye contact requires attention and can impact their sense of vision. While most non-autistic people can talk, listen, and look at someone simultaneously, autistic people can experience difficulties managing the input they receive from their environment. 
• Lack of Social or Emotional Response: People use nonverbal communication all the time, and most people can read and understand nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. For autistic children and adults, nonverbal communication can be difficult to understand and imitate, and that input can be difficult to handle all at once. Some autistic people often appear to lack facial expressions or have different body language methods, such as stimming, and therefore communicate with others differently. 
• Delayed Developmental Milestones: Some autistic children will experience a delay in their speech until they are much older or may experience difficulties in understanding academic topics such as math or English literature. Every autistic child grows at their own pace and, in some cases, may not ever reach a specific milestone. While this may appear as something tragic, some methods of intervention can help, such as speech and language therapy, behavioral interventions, and social skill training, to help them maneuver through life. 

When a diagnosis is reached, it’s important to work with a supportive healthcare team that understands your child’s needs and can provide them with the resources they need to advocate for themselves and grow. As each child is unique, your healthcare members should always tailor their approach to meet their needs and work on their strengths for better health and well-being.

Let Us Help Your Child Experience A Full Life

While an ASD diagnosis can seem confusing for families, it’s important to remember that having an autistic child can bring out more joy in your life than ever before when they’re seen as a gift in your life. At MD First Primary & Urgent Care, we work to advocate for their health and agency and empower them and their families toward better health. For more information about how we care for autistic patients, contact us today by calling (803) 283-2300 and visiting us in Lancaster, SC.

Many challenges come with living with Type 2 Diabetes. As a long-term metabolic disorder, its long-term symptoms can make it troublesome to maintain your health longer, and it requires significant lifestyle changes and constant management to fully maintain. However, our team understands the impact type 2 diabetes can have, and we are wholly committed to offering supportive and effective care to enable patients to manage their health and enhance their quality of life. 

Understanding and Managing Type 2 Diabetes in Adults

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder defined by problems in how the body regulates and uses sugar as fuel. With Type 2 diabetes, your body overtime develops insulin resistance, causing blood sugar levels to rise and eventually damage the body over time, leading to other serious health problems such as heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease. Some of the most common symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes include: 

• Frequent Urination: People with type 2 diabetes may experience an increased need to urinate, particularly at night. This occurs because high glucose levels in the blood can overwhelm the kidneys, leading to increased urine production.
• Excessive Thirst: Increased urination can lead to dehydration, causing excessive thirst as the body tries to compensate for fluid loss.
• Persistent Hunger: Despite eating, individuals with type 2 diabetes may feel constantly hungry. This effect is due to the body’s inability to properly utilize glucose for energy, leading to feelings of hunger.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Some people with type 2 diabetes may experience unintentional weight loss. This occurs when the body breaks down muscle and fat for energy due to insulin resistance.
• Fatigue: Inadequate utilization of glucose can leave the body without its primary energy source, resulting in persistent fatigue and weakness.
• Slow Wound Healing: Type 2 diabetes can impair the body’s ability to heal, causing slower recovery from cuts, wounds, and infections. It can also lead to frequent infections. 
• Tingling or Numbness: Nerve damage (neuropathy) caused by diabetes may lead to tingling or numbness, typically in the hands and feet.

Because of its chronic nature, it can significantly impact a person’s health and well-being, but through the right management strategies and healthcare support, Type 2 diabetes can be managed. At MD First Primary & Urgent Care, our professional team can ensure that every patient receives a comprehensive management plan that includes strategies to control blood sugar levels and prevent complications. Our approach includes services such as: 

• Medication Management: Medications or insulin therapy can be prescribed to help assist with blood glucose control. 
• Lifestyle Modifications: As physicians, we advocate for healthy lifestyle choices, including balanced diets of whole grains and lean proteins combined with regular physical activity to promote better blood sugar levels. 
• Regular Monitoring: Our team can provide routine checks for blood glucose levels and regular medical appointments to help make necessary adjustments to treatment plans. 
• Education and Support: Our patient-centered care focuses on educating and supporting those with Type 2 diabetes, helping patients learn about the condition, its potential complications, and ways the conditions can be managed for effective management. 

See Us For Help With Type 2 Diabetes

If you or a loved one is living with Type 2 Diabetes and seeking guidance and assistance in managing this condition, we are here for you. Contact MD First Primary & Urgent Care at (803) 283-2300 or visit our Lancaster, SC facility to schedule a consultation. Under the care of both Dr. Amrendra Kumar and Kasey Hudson, we are committed to providing you with the knowledge and care you need to maintain your health and live your life to the fullest.

Promoting good health and well-being should always be a priority, regardless of your age. One of the best ways to keep your body in good shape is through preventive health. Preventive health is the activities you do to stay healthy longer, even when you consider yourself to be in excellent shape now. At MD First Primary & Urgent Care, preventive care is an integral part of our services, as it is designed to help keep you and your family healthy at any age. 

Understanding Preventive Health Measures

Preventive care is all about staying proactive and taking steps to prevent illness before they become serious health problems. It’s considered one of the best ways to lower the costs of your health care when you’re sick, and it’s considered a paid-for service by many health insurance companies, meaning there are no out-of-pocket costs associated with going to your doctor for a checkup. 

But more importantly, preventive care focuses on keeping you healthy longer and can be used to help identify problems ahead of time, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and even certain cancers when they’re at their most treatable stage. 

So, what’s considered preventive care? Here are some common examples of preventive care services that almost everyone knows about: 

• Annual Checkups: Annual checkups usually include general health screenings for conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other health conditions, in addition to a physical exam.
• Cancer Screenings: Cancer screenings are vital, especially if you have a family history of certain cancers. Most people won’t experience cancer symptoms during its earliest stages, and screenings are the best way to detect signs of cancer before they worsen. 
• Childhood Immunizations: Vaccines for children, including hepatitis A and B, chicken pox, and measles, are considered the most assured way to protect them from various diseases as they grow and develop. 
• Adult Immunizations: For adults, vaccines for diseases such as shingles, tetanus, and pneumococcal conjugate are a great preventive measure, as it’s important to stay up-to-date with your recommended vaccination throughout your life. 
• Yearly Flu Shots: While the flu is considered one of the most common illnesses people get, flu shots can reduce your risk of getting the flu by up to 60% and also help reduce the chances of severe flu symptoms that could lead to hospitalization. 

Taking the to incorporate these preventive measures into your life can be manageable. Making healthier food choices, staying active throughout the day, and scheduling your regular checkups can help you be more proactive about your health and keep you healthier longer. 

Visit MD First Primary & Urgent Care For A Regular Checkup Today!

We understand the importance of prevention in healthcare, and we are here to support you on your health journey. If you have any questions about preventive health measures or would like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (803) 283-2300. Our caring team in Lancaster, SC, is here to assist you and provide the guidance you need to prioritize your health. Together, let’s take proactive steps toward a healthier future.

Emergency room and Urgent Care visits tend to have one thing in common. They occur unexpectedly when prompt care is needed. The difference between the two is that Urgent Care is for immediate needs that are not life-threatening. You may be wondering what you need to do to prepare for a visit to urgent care. The MD First Primary & Urgent Care team is always available to see our patients to help you with your pressing medical needs. Below we’ve put together a guide to help patients visiting the urgent care be sure to know what to bring and what to expect during their visit.

Preparing For Your Urgent Care Visit and What To Expect

The first step to making sure your visit to Urgent Care is as easy and efficient as possible is planning ahead. Obviously, you’ll be in a hurry; you need prompt medical attention. However, since your situation isn’t life-threatening, you can take a few steps to ensure you get the care you need promptly. As you’re preparing to go, or even on your way, take the time to get the following information down and ready to provide to your provider:

• List Your Symptoms: Be as specific as possible, and make sure you don’t leave any out. The presence or absence of certain symptoms can be the difference between an accurate diagnosis and a mystery ailment. Note when the symptoms occur, what triggers them, what makes them worse, and what improves them.
• Medication List: Include a complete list of your medications. This is important as side effects must always be considered, and some medications may not be compatible with others. This doesn’t just mean your prescription medications. Include any supplements you’re taking, over-the-counter medications, and prescription medications. If you’re taking any illicit substances, report those as well. Your caretaker is only concerned about treating your symptoms; they won’t get involved with your legal concerns.
• Medical History: Bring an overview of your medical history, including previous surgeries and existing conditions. Most importantly, include allergies and any chronic conditions you may suffer.
• Get Your Questions Ready: Nothing is worse than being out the door from your appointment and realizing you forgot to ask an important question. Make sure you have these details together before you go; everything will go much smoother during your visit.

During your visit, one thing stands out as being most important for ensuring you receive quality care. Make sure that you’re open and honest with your provider. They’re there to help you recover from your injury or illness; not telling them the whole truth can make that harder and reduce the quality of the care you receive.

Get The Most Out Of Your Urgent Care Visit

When seeking treatment at urgent care, you want to ensure you get the quality care you need. Remember, your visit to urgent care is focused on taking care of your immediate need. Following your treatment, you may be told to schedule a follow-up with your PCP. The good news is you can schedule that during your visit at MD First Primary & Urgent Care if you’re already part of our patient family. Start by calling (803) 283-2300 or visiting our office in Lancaster, SC, today!

Accidents and unexpected diseases sometimes take us by surprise. In such circumstances, receiving fast and adequate medical care takes precedence. Urgent care facilities like MD First Primary & Urgent Care are available to fill that need. Urgent care facilities bridge the gap between emergency departments and primary care physicians by providing prompt assistance for non-life-threatening diseases. But for what conditions may you use urgent care? Let’s examine a few typical ailments handled by urgent care facilities.

Knowing the Function of Urgent Care

People who require immediate but not emergency treatment can be treated at urgent care facilities. They can effectively manage a variety of urgent but non-life-threatening medical problems. Their expanded hours give patients who can’t attend during typical primary care hours more flexibility, and the reduced wait periods are great for those who need help immediately.

• Minor trauma: This covers wounds that need to be stitched up, such as fractures, sprains, strains, mild burns, cuts, and abrasions.
• Respiratory issues: Attacks of asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and COPD flare-ups can all be treated at an urgent care facility.
• Digestive issues: Treatment options exist for gastroenteritis, food poisoning, dehydration, and stomach discomfort.
• Infections: Urgent treatment is appropriate for infections of the ear, eyes, skin, urinary system, and sexually transmitted diseases.
• Other non-emergency conditions: Additionally, headaches, allergies, minor eye issues, and post-hospital discharge follow-up treatment are all handled by urgent care facilities.

While urgent care facilities offer first-rate care for various ailments, it’s crucial to remember that they are not a replacement for emergency care. A trip to the emergency department is necessary for life-threatening situations such as acute chest pain, stroke symptoms, extreme bleeding, or shortness of breath. On the other hand, your primary care physician, who is familiar with your medical background, is ideally suited to handle chronic illnesses. Making the appropriate choice when an illness or accident hits depends on understanding each healthcare service’s function. 

By offering prompt and accessible medical care for non-life-threatening diseases, urgent care centers serve a critical role in the healthcare system. They fill the gap between primary care and emergency services by providing convenient care outside of typical business hours. Numerous acute diseases and injuries, such as small fractures, infections, allergic reactions, and common ailments, are treated at urgent care facilities. They provide on-site diagnostic services for rapid diagnosis, including X-rays and laboratory tests. The demand for hospitals is lessened by urgent care clinics, which offer cost-effective care and shorter wait times than emergency departments. They provide the community with effective and accessible access to healthcare for those who need immediate medical treatment but do not require emergency services.

Making the Best Medical Decision

Dr. Amrendra Kumar and Kasey Hudson’s highly qualified staff at MD First Primary & Urgent Care in Lancaster, South Carolina, are ready to offer timely and competent treatment for various non-emergency ailments. Call (803) 283-2300 for urgent, non-life-threatening medical needs. We promise to provide high-quality treatment quickly and compassionately, ensuring that your health condition is swiftly treated. Remember that we are here to assist you if you encounter an unanticipated health concern. We put your health first and are here whenever you need us. You can rely on MD First Primary & Urgent Care to provide prompt medical care.

In the bustling rhythm of life, health often takes a backseat until we are interrupted by an unexpected health concern. We must make a point of communicating with our primary care physician clearly about the state of our health. Our PCPs are there for more than preventative care and identifying health concerns before they become serious. They can treat our concerns, help us achieve a healthier lifestyle, and manage chronic conditions. However, it can be difficult to determine if a health concern merits a visit to your PCP or Urgent Care. MD First Primary & Urgent Care is here to let you know when to schedule an appointment with your PCP.

How To Know When It’s Time To See Your Primary Care Physician

Knowing when it’s time to see your primary care physician can be confusing, but you must be able to make this critical decision. Seeking medical care in a timely fashion is a necessary part of maintaining your health. The minimum you should see your doctor is once a year for an annual check-up. These visits help your doctor keep their finger on the pulse of your health, identifying any developing concerns and ensuring existing ones are properly managed. So when is it necessary to schedule an appointment outside of your annual visit?

• Persistent Symptoms – When pain, fever, or prolonged discomfort are present, it’s time to get on the phone. Conditions such as chest pain, severe headache, and shortness of breath may merit a visit to the Urgent Care or ER. For these symptoms, seek immediate care. 
• Managing Chronic Health Concerns – If you live with chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease, you should regularly visit your physician. Conditions like these will often have you visiting them regularly, three or four times a year, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
• Medication Concerns – If you’re currently taking medication and have questions about side effects or their effectiveness, call your doctor. Scheduling an appointment will give you time to track the concern and give a clear report to them during your visit.
• Preventative Screenings And Vaccinations – Ongoing check-ups often include screenings as part of preventative care. You’ll also be updated on your vaccines at visits like these.

Your primary care physician is your guide to navigating your lifelong health journey. They’re there to help you ensure that your choices are well-informed. They’ll also help you coordinate care between specialists if necessary. Developing a trusting relationship with your primary care physician ensures that you and your doctor are up to date with your current health status.

Ensuring Continuity In Your Health Care Journey

The most important rule to follow when considering if it’s time to see your PCP is this: if in doubt, give a shout. You can also stop in at our urgent care anytime if you have health care concerns. We’re always available to see you and can make sure you’re in good shape when it comes time to see your PCP again. Call us today at (803) 283-2300 or stop by our location in Lancaster, SC.

The summer season has shown its face, and with its arrival is a great time to get back out in the outdoors. There are so many incredible sights to view and places to enjoy this beautiful time of year. From down in the Lowcountry to the beautiful parks and trails of Upstate, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs and breathe fresh air. It’s incomparable to connect with nature and stay healthy and active. However, staying safe out there and protecting your health on the trails is essential. MD First Primary & Urgent Care has compiled this quick guide to ensure you get everything out of your summertime hikes safely.\

Getting Ready For A Summertime Hike

Hiking comes with an amazing number of health benefits, but there’s plenty you have to be careful of as well. Summer can get downright hot, especially here in South Carolina. While you’re out on the trails, you want to make sure you stay away from dehydration and make sure you’re always wearing sunscreen. When you head out to the trail, there are a few necessities yo’re going to want to have on hand, including:

• Trail Food: Pack enough food to keep your energy up. Powerbars, granola bars, and trail mixes are all great convenient bars of energy that are easy to carry and store well. If you’re traveling somewhere you’re unfamiliar with, bring a little extra in case you get disoriented.
• Butane Lighter: A butane lighter in your pack is a good idea, even if noone with you is a smoker. Studies revealed that smokers tend to have a higher overall chance of survival when they get lost. The reason is clear; they always have a source of fire on hand. 
• Change Of Clothes: Ensuring a change of clothes is available is also important. Regardless of what the weather was when you left the house, it can change unexpectedly. Also, if you should happen to get disoriented, you’ll have clothes to ensure you’re warm in the evening.
• Map: Even if you’re traveling somewhere familiar, bringing along a map with you is essential, just in case. Getting a laminated map can help protect it from moisture.
• Compass: A map isn’t of much use if you don’t know which way you’re going. Bring along a compass to help guide you. Even better, bring a satellite GPS.
• First Aid Kit: No matter how ‘minor’ your hiking trip is, accidents can occur at any time. Ensure you bring along at least a general first aid collection is available in case of an accident.
• Sunscreen and Bugspray: These two components of your kit are inseparable. So much so, in fact, that we’ve bundled them together. Sunscreen stands guard against sunburn and skin cancer, while bug spray keeps the biters at bay.

Once you have these items together, you’re ready to hit the trails and have a great summertime adventure.

Contact MD First Primary & Urgent Care For More Summertime Tips

To learn more about staying safe during summertime activities, call us at (803) 283-2300 today. We’ll connect you with a member of our team who will go over tips for staying safe this summer. 

Heart palpitations, or the sensation of your heart thumping or racing, is a common experience for many people. While this sensation can occur at any time of the day, some people experience heart palpitations, specifically at night, which can be concerning. If you’ve been noticing heart palpitations occurring at night, we’re here to help inform you about some common causes of heart palpitations and discuss ways to manage and prevent them. 

Common Causes of Heart Palpitations At Night 

Heart palpitations are often described as fluttering, fast-beating, and pounding heart rates that can be triggered by many things. These palpitations can feel like the heart’s beating too fast, fluttering rapidly, the heart skips a beat, and can also be felt throughout the throat or neck. 

Normally, palpitations that are infrequent or last only a few seconds don’t require any cause for concern. However, if you’ve been experiencing frequent, ongoing symptoms of heart palpitations, then it should be evaluated by a medical professional. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider about your heart palpitations; they may be able to provide heart-monitoring tests to see if a more serious heart problem causes the palpitations. 

If you experience heart palpitations at night, your physician can help you manage and treat them based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and other health factors. Some common causes of heart palpitations include: 

• Stress and Anxiety: Stress and anxiety are often major contributors to heart palpitations at night. When the body’s under stress, it releases adrenaline, causing your heart rate to increase. 
• Caffeine Intake: Having caffeine, especially during the late hours of the day, can trigger heart palpitations at night. Caffeine can take several hours to wear off as a stimulant and even cause palpitations during sleep. 
• Alcohol Intake: Drinking alcohol before bedtime can also contribute to palpitations. Even though alcohol is a depressant, it can cause palpitations if combined with other stimulants. 
• Medications: Some medications have heart palpitations as a side effect. Some asthma medications can trigger heart palpitations, and if you notice palpitations with your medications, then make sure to consult with your healthcare provider about possibly changing your medication for your condition. 
• Hormonal Changes: In many cases, hormonal fluctuations can cause heart palpitations. For women, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can cause the heart to palpitate due to the fluctuation of estrogen and progesterone in the system. 

Visit MD First Primary & Urgent Care For an Appointment!

If you experience heart palpitations at night and don’t experience a heart condition, you can easily try relaxation techniques, limiting your caffeine consumption, and staying hydrated to help control your heart rate. However, if you don’t have a regular healthcare provider and need a checkup on your heart, don’t hesitate to contact MD First Primary & Urgent Care for an appointment. At our clinic in Lancaster, SC, Dr. Amrendra Kumar and Kasey Hudson can help you manage your health and keep your body in check. Call (803) 283-2300 to schedule an appointment with us today!