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: 

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: 

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: 

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: 

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:

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.

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?

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:

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: 

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! 

South Carolina summers can bring on intense heat and humidity, and it’s essential to be aware of the dangers of heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion can become severe and fatal quickly if not recognized early on, as it can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. At MD First Primary & Urgent Care, we’re here to explore how to handle South Carolina heat exhaustion to help you stay safe and healthy during the summer months. 

How To Handle South Carolina Heat Exhaustion

In South Carolina, the sun alone can be relentless for months on end, and when combined with the high humidity factors, it can be extra trouble for those who regularly work outside and spend time outdoors. That’s why it’s essential to know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and its dangerous relative, heat stroke, and learn what to do if you find yourself experiencing them. 

The best way to handle heat exhaustion is to prevent it. Here are some tips for preventing heat exhaustion. 

However, if you can’t prevent it immediately, paying attention to any symptoms that may come around during your time outdoors is important. Some symptoms to pay attention to include: 

Recognizing the symptoms early on can help you take action to cool down. When cooling down, remove any excess clothing and use a cool compress or a cold shower to lower your body temperature. During that time, rehydrate with cool fluids to replace any lost fluids. Rest during this time, and if symptoms don’t improve or worsen, seek medical attention immediately by calling your nearest urgent care center for treatment. 

Seek Medical Attention With MD First Primary & Urgent Care

At MD First Primary & Urgent Care, we understand what the South Carolina heat can do and strive to keep our patients safe and healthy. If you’re experiencing any signs of heat exhaustion or have concerns about how to stay cool during the summer months, our team is here to help. To learn more about our services, schedule an appointment today by calling (803) 283-2300. Visit our practice in Lancaster, SC, and Dr. Amrendra Kumar and Kasey Hudson will gladly help you. 

While we talk about the common cold like a single disease, it describes symptoms shared by numerous diseases. Among the diseases in question are included both bacterial infections and viral infections. This is why some colds can be difficult to overcome, while others can seem to pass in a couple of days. Further, the severity of the symptoms themselves can vary. Some may come with a mild fever, others with lots of sneezing, while others may produce worse congestion than others. One variety, known as respiratory syncytial virus or RSV, can have significant symptoms that can become life-threatening when left untreated in some patients. MD First Primary & Urgent Care is available to help you, and has produced this guide to help you determine when a common cold may be RSV.

Discover The Details Of Respiratory Syncytial Virus And Its Risks

On the surface, RSV shares many symptoms that appear with most common colds. However, with this infection comes the potential for significant complications that make it more dangerous than most. While most of those who develop RSV will recover quickly and without concern, vulnerable patients may develop more severe symptoms. These patients tend to include children, the elderly, and those with suppressed immune systems. The most significant differences between RSV and most common colds include:

RSV has no known cure, though some treatments are available for managing the condition’s symptoms. Most patients will not need any specific approach to recover from RSV. However, when treatment of the symptoms is necessary, the following options are available:

Learn More About RSV With MD First Primary & Urgent Care

If you’re concerned that you may be struggling with something more than a common cold, it’s time to call (803) 283-2300 and schedule your next appointment or drop into our urgent care. We’ll provide you with prompt care and help ensure that you’re prepared to help prevent more severe symptoms from this condition. Don’t let that “common cold” become a life-threatening condition; call us today and set your mind at ease about the possibility of RSV.