Featured Smithfield Family Physicians
Patient Education
Asthma Treatment and Medications
Asthma treatment involves the use of "rescue" medications to treat asthma symptoms and "preventive" medications to keep asthma under control, as well as a plan to track and manage your asthma symptoms. See your family physician about asthma treatment options and to develop a personalized Asthma Action Plan. More...
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It causes episodes of dry, itching, and inflamed skin. Treatment options include topical and oral corticosteroids, topical non-steroids (calcineurin inhibitors, crisaborole), antihistamines, immunosuppressants and new biologics (dupilumab). Your dermatologist will recommend a treatment based on your age, its severity, and your response to past treatments. More...
Biologic Medications for Psoriasis
"Biologics"" are a class of medications that have become an important treatment option for psoriasis. Biologics are different from traditional medications because they target specific parts of the immune system rather than impacting the entire immune system. A biologic medication may be prescribed for a person whose psoriasis is moderate to severe, cannot be controlled effectively with other treatments, or who cannot tolerate the side effects of other psoriasis medications. More...
Biologics for Eczema
A class of medications called “biologics” may be prescribed for the treatment of severe eczema. Biologics, such as dupilumab, are delivered by injection and may be used in combination with other eczema treatments. More...
Biologics for Severe Asthma
Those with severe asthma which is not well controlled with other treatments may be prescribed a class of medications called “biologics”. Biologics are unique in that they target a specific antibody, molecule, or cell involved in asthma. Because of this, they are known as “precision” or “personalized” therapy. Currently there are five approved biologics for asthma – omalizumab, mepolizumab, reslizumab, benralizumab, and dupilumab – with several others currently in development. More...
Cholesterol-Lowering Medications
If you can not bring your blood cholesterol levels to healthy level through proper diet and exercise, your physician may recommend a medication, such as a "statin", to lower your cholesterol. Medications do not "cure" high cholesterol so they much be continues to keep your cholesterol levels in the recommended range. More...
Choosing Botulinum Treatment
Botulinum toxins are the most commonly used cosmetic treatments. Several forms are now available, including Botox®, Dysport® Jeauveau®, and Xeomin®. Each offer different advantages. Your dermatologist will recommend a formulation and treatment plan based on several factors, including your desired results and use of other cosmetic procedures. More...
Contraception
Contraception (birth control) is designed to prevent pregnancy. It also allows women to plan the timing of pregnancy. The most appropriate method of birth control depends on a woman's overall health, age, frequency of sexual activity, desire to have children in the future, family history, and personal preferences. Options include continuous abstinence, rhythm method, barrier methods (condom, diaphragm), hormonal methods ("the pill", patch, injection, vaginal ring), and implantable devices. Consult with your family physician to determine the best method of birth control for you. More...
COVID Vaccine
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective at preventing COVID-19 disease, especially severe illness and death. COVID-19 vaccines reduce the risk of people spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. You may have side effects after vaccination. These are normal and should go away in a few days. More...
Dermal Fillers (Soft Tissue Augmentation)
Dermal fillers, such as Juvederm®, Radiesse®, and Restylane®, are commonly used to provide a more youthful appearance. They are gel-like substance that are used to fill in the creases and lines around the mouth, and to replace the volume loss that naturally occurs with aging. Dermal fillers may also be used to augment lips. More...
Diabetes - Type 2
Type 2 diabetes, formerly called "adult-onset diabetes", is the most common form of diabetes. About 95% of people with diabetes have type 2. Your internist can diagnose diabetes through blood tests that show elevated blood sugar levels. Managing diabetes requires lifestyle changes (diet, exercise)and monitoring blood sugar levels. In some cases, one or more diabetes medications may be prescribed. More...
Diabetes Medications - Oral
Oral medications are often prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes to control their blood sugar (glucose) levels. These "diabetes pills" are prescribed along with meal planning and physical activity. Several kinds of diabetes pills are available. Each works in a different way. Some diabetes medicines work well together and may be used in combination. More...
High Blood Pressure Treatment
High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, but can lead serious medical problems, including heart failure, kidney failure, and stroke. If you have high blood pressure (hypertension), your family physician may recommend a treatment plan to bring your blood pressure under control. Treatment options include lifestyle changes (dietary changes, weight loss, smoking cessation) and blood pressure medications. More...
Influenza (The Flu)
Flu is a contagious illness caused by the influenza virus, usually occurring from Fall into Spring. 5-20% of individuals get the flu each year and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related complications. Symptoms include fever (not everyone with flu will have a fever), headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat, runny nose and muscle aches. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine each year. More...
Living With COPD
COPD leads to a variety of respiratory symptoms, including cough and difficulty breathing. Symptoms come and go and additional treatment is often required during periods of worsening symptoms (exacerbations). There is no cure for COPD, but there are several inhaled medications that can help to control the symptoms. If COPD symptoms suddenly worsen, it is important to call your pulmonologist who may prescribe different inhaled medications or an antibiotic and recommend that you be seen for further evaluation. More...
Medical Therapy for Rosacea
There are a variety of treatments available to reduce the signs and symptoms of rosacea, including medications and procedures. Talk to your dermatologist about the optimal treatment for your rosacea. Your recommended treatment will be based on your type(s) of rosacea, the severity of symptoms, your response to past treatments, and personal preferences. More...
Shingles (Zoster) Vaccine
The CDC recommends that healthy adults 50 years and older get two doses of the Shingrix® vaccine separated by 2 to 6 months, to prevent shingles and other complications from the disease. 2 doses of Shingrix® is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and related conditions. More...