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Health related questions answered by our local doctors and healthcare professionals
How can I tell if my pet is overweight?
To check if your pet is overweight, feel their ribs; you should be able to feel the ribs without excess fat covering the ribs. Look for a defined waistline when you view your pet from above and a tucked abdomen from the side. If these signs are not visible, your pet may be overweight. Consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and a weight management plan, including diet and exercise recommendations.
Learn more: www.mobilepetvet.com | 410-544-8300
Lisa Beagan, DVM; Mobile Pet Vet
I would like to brighten and possibly straighten my smile. What are some options?
You can do something simple like whitening your smile or more complex like Veneers or Clear Aligners. We offer a variety of options that fit everyone’s goals and budget!
Learn more: www.chesdentalarts.com | 410-401-8734
Dr. Meredith Esposito; Chesapeake Dental Arts
How do we know what is the best treatment for my cancer?
The best treatment is decided between the patient and his or her doctor. Oncologists make recommendations for treatment based on the diagnosis, stage of cancer, previous treatment history, and issues of the patient’s other health conditions and personal needs. One of the most important options to identify the best cancer treatment is known as comprehensive tumor profiling. This involves scientific analysis of a patient’s tumor for specific biological features, to determine whether a treatment is available that can take advantage of this feature to cause the tumor to stop growing, shrink away, or prevent from recurring.
Learn more: www.marylandoncology.com | 410-897-6200
David Weng, M.D., Ph.D.; Maryland Oncology Hematology
Worried about your child/adolescent/spouse’s mood and behaviors?
Psychiatrists are referred patients who are suffering from mood/anxiety/behavioral/cognitive symptoms that impact their overall functioning. A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation is conducted with the patient and family (if appropriate). Examining the presenting problem, predisposing factors, precipitating factors, perpetuating factors and protective factors allows us to understand the complex dynamic underpinnings that contribute to mental health disorders. A Differential Diagnosis/es utilizing the American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders 5-Text Revision Edition and a multimodal treatment plan is then discussed with the patient and their family.
Learn more: www.thrivebh.com | 410-780-5203
Miguel Macaoay, MD, PA; Medical Director | Thrive Behavioral Health | Meeting People Where They Are
What are common symptoms or conditions that indicate a need to see a urogynecologis?
Urogynecologists specialize in addressing pelvic floor symptoms. If you’re experiencing vaginal pressure, it could indicate prolapse or loss of vaginal support. This sensation often feels like something is hanging from the vagina and can impact bladder or bowel function.
Urogynecologists also treat conditions like urinary urgency, frequency, and leakage—during activities like laughing, coughing, or exercising. They address concerns like accidental bowel leakage, painful urination, frequent bladder infections, vaginal pain or dryness, and discomfort during intercourse. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, seek advice from a urogynecologist.
Learn more: www.chesapeakeurology.com | 443-231-1500
Dr. Christine Santayana; Chesapeake Urology
What tests can be done to look for cancer in healthy people?
Scientific studies show the major benefit of cancer screenings is early detection; they can detect cancer before it has started or when it’s early. Recommended screening tests include mammograms for women 40 and over; colonoscopies or Cologuard for everyone 45 and older; low dose chest CT scans for those with a 20-pack year smoking history, ages 50-80; regular pap smears in women; and testicular self-exams in young men. In individuals with a family history of breast or colon cancer, screening tests would start at a younger age. HPV vaccination is already saving lives. Insurers often cover screening tests. Get screened!
Learn more: marylandoncology.com | 410-897-6200
Dr. Jeanine Werner; Maryland Oncology Hematology
Do veneers always look fake?
When done by a skilled dentist and high quality dental lab, veneers can look incredibly natural and beautiful. The key is proper planning to keep the teeth proportional to the smile and face. We like to do a trial smile so our patients can approve of the look of the veneers beforehand and request changes if needed. The pink gingival “frame” is often overlooked but very important, and when correctly done gingiva tissue should remain healthy around the veneers. Our goal is to enhance the appearance of your natural smile while giving you the confidence to show it off more.
Learn more: harbordentalcenter.com | 410-650-8335
Meredith Todd, DDS; Harbor Dental Center