Dr. Steve Martz shares his favorite ER stories.

After working in urgent care and emergency rooms for more than 20 years, I’ve seen or heard about all kinds of unusual cases. But despite all my experiences, I still come across stories that make me shake my head. Here are a few tales that are nothing new to Legacy ER & Urgent Care. More important, they’re a reminder that no matter how odd the story, never delay seeking medical treatment.

Good patient, bad chart

A patient checked in complaining that he had not been able to breathe well for several days. The doctor made a quick notation on the patient’s chart, and then stepped out of the room to check his blood work.

When the doctor returned, the patient asked “What did I do wrong?” The doctor, mystified, replied “Nothing.” The patient pointed to the chart and said “Then why did you write that I’m a ‘chronic SOB’ on my chart?”

Embarrassed, the M.D. replied that “SOB” stood for shortness of breath.

Of course, if you ever have trouble breathing, come by and see us immediately. We can help with a diagnosis and treatment of many causes of breathing issues, including asthma, lung infections and other health issues. Because many serious diseases can cause shortness of breath, we may need to administer a blood test or other examination to make sure we are able to identify and treat the source of your discomfort.  But I promise not to abbreviate your symptoms.

Foreign bodies and little bodies

Kids are by nature curious, and you’d be amazed at what all they will experiment with.  Noses and ears seem to be particularly popular places for sticking objects. For example, a young boy once tried to administer some nasal spray to himself.  Unfortunately, he forgot to remove the cap before inserting the bottle in his nostril. The cap got stuck up his nose.  Way, way up his nose.  And, of course, there are stories of peas, buttons, coins and all sorts of other items finding their way into places they don’t belong.

Usually, the best thing to do is to bring the little scientist to Legacy ER & Urgent Care.  Sometimes, parents who try to remove stray objects from noses or ears just make things worse.  In cases where the object has been inserted very deeply – or if your youngster has chosen to insert the object into the posterior or other opening – we may need to take an X-ray or perform a CT scan on your child to make sure there is no damage to interior organs and ensure safe removal.

I also know that these types of emergencies can affect grown-ups, too. Please don’t let your pride get in the way of getting the help you need. We have the right medical tools from forceps to CT scans to make sure any object is removed safely and all damage is treated properly.

Small problem, big reaction

A patient came in with oddly swollen and itchy ears.  She was at a loss to explain what caused the symptoms but otherwise appeared to be in good health.  A thorough examination soon revealed the source of her woes: an undetected ant bite on her foot. Usually, the reaction would be localized to the area of the bite, but in this case it was her ears that reacted.

If you experience anything out of the ordinary after a bite of any kind or exposure to certain plants or foods, it’s a good idea to come by. Legacy ER & Urgent Care can treat these allergic reactions and sometimes even pinpoint the source of the allergy so you know what to look out for in the future.

The best thing about dealing with so many different kinds of cases is that it keeps my staff and I on our toes and ready to tackle almost any medical issue that comes through our door.  And if you take a few minutes to become a VIP Member, you too can be more prepared to deal with the next unexpected incident that comes your way.

We’d love to see how you’re doing
A complete annual physical, including an EKG, is one of your best weapons in the fight against heart disease. Catching early warning signs like high blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, diabetes and other risk factors means your doctor can prescribe medication or treatment that will significantly reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke. You should also have your cholesterol tested and your blood sugar checked.

Develop heart-healthy habits
Your heart health is in your hands – and your feet and stomach. Try to develop some good habits including:

• Exercise for at least 30 minutes four days a week
• Choose lean meats and poultry products without skin
• Select fat-free, 1% fat and low-fat dairy products
• Cut back on food containing partially hydrogenated vegetable oils
• Cut back on foods and drinks with added sugar
• Try and reduce your salt intake to less than 2,300 mg of sodium a day
• Limit alcohol to no more than one drink a day
• If you smoke, quit

Know the signs of heart attack and stroke
Getting immediate treatment for a heart attack or stroke can mean the difference between life and death. Come in to Legacy ER and Urgent Care immediately if you experience:

• Chest discomfort lasting more that a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back; this is most often described as squeezing, pressure, fullness or pain
• Discomfort in other areas, such as the arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach
• Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort.
• You may also break out in a cold sweat, experience nausea or feel lightheaded

Stroke victims may notice the following symptoms:

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding
• Vision trouble
• Difficulty walking, dizziness or loss of coordination
• Sudden, severe headache

Women’s symptoms are different
While women account for nearly 50% of heart attack victims, their symptoms are sometimes very different from men. They are far less likely to experience pain in the chest. Women, even young women, should pay particular attention to the following symptoms:

• Shortness of breath
• A feeling of overall weakness and unusual fatigue
• Breaking out in a cold sweat
• Dizziness and/or difficulty keeping one’s balance

When in doubt, let us check you out.
Heart attack and stroke symptoms aren’t always obvious. If you have any risk factors including age, high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol, arrhythmia, peripheral artery disease or a history of heart trouble and think you may be having a heart attack or stroke, see us at once.

“Knowing the warning signs of heart attack or stroke is critical to seeking the immediate treatment that could save your life,” cautioned Dr. Kirk D. Mahon, M.D.

VIP Perks members who want to know more about how to say heart healthy can post questions on Ask the ER.

Don’t be afraid to travel heavy.
Texas has mostly mild winters, but cold weather can move in hard and fast. If you’re driving, be sure to pack blankets and warm clothing in case of a breakdown. That’s especially important if you’re headed into colder climates to visit relatives or for a family ski trip.

What to pack in your first-aid kit
A good travel first aid kid should include:

• a thermometer
• an over-the-counter pain reliever
• adhesive bandages in various sizes, gauze pads and first-aid tape
• antibacterial hand sanitizer and gel
• steroid cream
• antacid tablets
• antidiarrheal medication
• tweezers
• antihistamines
• lip ointment
• sunscreen
• any prescription medications and supplies you require

You may also wish to add a first aid manual, eye wash solution, and an Ace bandage to your kit. Sign up for VIP Perks and you can get a complimentary first aid kit to get you started.

Other important items for your checklist
Make sure you’ve got updated insurance information with you when you travel. If you’re going abroad, check and see if you are covered. You may need to purchase a supplemental policy for the duration of your trip. If you have a pre-existing condition, carry a letter from your doctor describing your condition and the names of any medications you may be taking. Always carry your prescription medications in their original containers, clearly labeled.

Remember, we’re here to help.
If you’re hosting guests from out of town, Legacy ER and Urgent Care is here to help if someone is sick or injured. Our longer hours mean we’ll help your guests get to feeling better faster, so you can get back to enjoying your holiday time together sooner. We’re also able to treat a full range of symptoms, from flu and minor injuries to more serious conditions. We’re open 7 days a week, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. We are even open on Christmas Day and New Year’s day. Please go to LegacyER.com for our holiday hours of operations.

And, if you’re going to be traveling, feel free to check in with us if you have any concerns about your prescriptions or your wellbeing. Our goal is to help you have the happiest, most carefree holiday possible.

“Legacy ER’s extended hours and short wait times make us the perfect place to bring guests who may have a medical problem arise over the holidays. Whether it’s a minor inconvenience or a major medical issue, we’re ready to help,” advised Dr. Jay Woody, M.D., FACEP.

VIP Perks members who want more information on holiday travel tips can learn more by posting questions on Ask the ER.

Here are a few tips that will help you get in shape without getting in over your head.

With exercise, go slow
One of the leading causes of exercise-related injuries is trying to do too much, too soon. If you haven’t exercised for a while, start your routine with something simple, like walking or riding a stationary bike. Even if you are fairly fit, the odds are that you may have slacked off a little bit over the holidays and may have put on a few extra pounds. Start slowly, and gradually increase your workload over a series of sessions.

Get an expert opinion
Most of us think we’re a lot more fit than we are. Before beginning a fitness regimen, it’s a good idea to get a checkup from your primary care physician. Your physician can make recommendations for an exercise program based on your age, goals and overall physical condition. You may also want to consult a trainer at a local gym. An appropriate workout regimen is not only healthier and safer, you’re more likely to stick with it because it’s more enjoyable and less tiring than overtraining.

Know your strengths – and your weaknesses
Even if you’re in pretty good shape, modifying your workout routine can be a significant challenge. For example, you might be a strong runner, but if you decide to add a weight-lifting regimen to your workout and you’ve never lifted before, realize that you’re going to have to start at the bottom in your new discipline and work your way up.

You are your only real competition
Running or working out with friends can be beneficial as it gives you a support group to help you achieve your goals. But don’t let it become a competition. Everybody is different, and you may need more time to build up to running a specific distance, lifting a certain amount, losing a set amount of weight, or whatever other goals you may set.

Accidents will happen
Even with the best planned, most careful exercise regimen, accidents can happen. Legacy ER and Urgent Care is ready to help. Our x-ray capabilities can assess broken bones and sprains, we have a CT scanner to check head injuries and concussions, EKG machines if you experience chest pains and we can treat cuts, muscle injuries and other bumps and bruises quickly and efficiently. Just drop in or check in online so you can get back to getting in shape as soon as possible.

“Legacy ER has the equipment and expertise to treat almost any sports injury, from a simple sprain to a fracture, concussion or even chest pain,” commented Dr. Steven E. Martz, M.D., FACEP.

VIP Perks members who want to know more about exercise options for a healthier New Year can post questions on Ask the ER.

That’s important, because research shows that most adults gain weight over the holidays. And while a return to a normal diet sheds a few of those pounds, most of us add about a pound or so annually. This slow but steady weight gain can really add up by the time we reach middle age.

The good news is that with a little planning, you can enjoy a sensible, fun holiday.

Exercise good judgment.

Many people use travel, parties and other holiday events as an excuse to slack off from their normal exercise routines. Don’t. Keep up your regular workout routine. If you don’t have one, start. If you haven’t been on an exercise routine for a while, you should consult with the doctors at Legacy ER. We can recommend one appropriate to your age and physical condition.

Clean your plate—as long as it’s a small one.

When you’re going through a buffet line or at a party table, use the smallest available plate. And fight the urge to go back for seconds—instead of lingering around the table, move to another location that’s less tempting.

Go easy on the alcohol.

Alcohol is packed with empty calories. A glass of wine with your meal is fine, but consider alternatives like sparkling water for before- or after-dinner drinks.

Plan a low-calorie meal for the holiday.

The Internet and newer cookbooks are filled with lower-calorie recipes for many traditional holiday favorites. Take a few minutes to review a few and see which ones tickle your taste buds. Also remember that heavy foods are fine for most people in moderation, and that you’re not actually obligated to go back for seconds, let alone thirds.

Don’t go on an eating binge.

Thinking about skipping breakfast so you can gorge yourself at Thanksgiving dinner? Don’t. Eating a normal breakfast will help keep you from going overboard during dinner.

Spend some time with the family.

Don’t spend the whole day watching football. Gather the family for a walk around the neighborhood, throw the football around, or do something else active after the big dinner to burn off some of those calories and help with digestion.

Make sure you can stomach the big day.

Nothing can ruin a fun holiday weekend like an upset stomach. If you’re concerned about any kind of trouble that might interfere with your long weekend, pay a visit to Legacy ER. We can check you for common digestive problems like acid reflux, lactose intolerance, stomach ulcers and other medical conditions. These are serious issues that require long-term solutions. You’ll not only have a better holiday, you’ll have better health.

Can you tell the difference between indigestion and a heart attack?

Chest pain. Shortness of breath. Pressure. Is it just a little indigestion, or is it a heart attack? Most people can’t tell the difference. The doctors at Legacy can. If you are experiencing any chest discomfort, come see us at once. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Our holiday hours.

We will be open on Thanksgiving Day from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. We will resume our regular 9:00 a.m. to 9: p.m. hours on Friday, November, 26.

VIP Perks members who are hungry for more information on a healthier Thanksgiving can learn more by posting questions on Ask the ER.

Learn how to tell the difference so you can seek the right treatment.

Ugh. You wake up sneezing, sniffling, coughing and just generally miserable. Is it a cold or the flu?

That’s an important question, because the flu can lead to health problems that may require hospitalization. These complications – such as pneumonia, sinus infections, bronchitis, and ear infections – are more common in the young, the old and people with other health issues.

So how can you detect the difference?

Start by taking your temperature. Most adults will have little if any fever with a cold; a temperature of 100 degrees or above is almost certainly the flu.

Other, subtler flu clues include headaches, severe body aches and fatigue lasting more than a few days. Your cough, congestion and sore throat are usually more intense with the flu.

In contrast, colds usually produce more congestion and sneezing with fewer body aches and headaches. While you may feel run down, you’ll rarely have the feeling of complete exhaustion that accompanies the flu. Cold symptoms usually come on more slowly than flu symptoms and usually go away within five to seven days.

When to visit us

If you have a severe cold or the flu, come in immediately if you experience any of the following:

• difficulty breathing or chest pain
• persistent fever
• severe headache
• persistent vomiting
• coughing that lasts more than two weeks
• headaches and congestion for more than two weeks

All of these could be signs of potentially serious medical problems and require the immediate attention of one of our physicians.

Of course, if you have a question about your cold or flu symptoms and are a VIP Perks member, simply post your concern on Ask the ER. You’ll receive an answer from one of our board-certified emergency physicians on how you can solve the challenges of getting through flu season in the best of health.

We tend to think of fall as the time of year when Mother Nature starts to shut down for the winter.  But the fact is that for many plants, it’s the third and final phase of the pollination process.  And, unfortunately for allergy sufferers, one of the most prolific pollinators is ragweed, a plant which causes a strong reaction in many people.

While ragweed is a primary culprit for fall allergies, it’s hardly the only one.  Other weeds and some trees pollinate in the autumn.  Cooler, wetter weather means mold and mildew proliferate.  The rain and drop in temperatures also means we spend more time indoors, exposing ourselves to indoor allergens like dust, dust mites and pet dander.  All of which can leave you with watering eyes, a runny nose and a run down feeling.  Here’s how to fight back.

Cutting the weeds cuts the pollen count.

Keeping weeds cut short means they can’t pollinate.  Wear a mask while you work, and change and launder your work clothes immediately.

Eliminate mold and mildew before they happen.

Rake up leaves and pick up debris from your lawn before they have a chance to become wet and packed down from rain.  This eliminates mold and airborne spores.

Do a little fall cleaning.

Give your home a good cleaning.  Vacuum rugs and air conditioning ducts, change air filters and use a HEPA air purifier specifically designed to remove airborne pollen.

Try some over-the-counter help.

There are a number of effective allergy medications available at your pharmacy.  If these don’t work, then come to Legacy ER where the doctors can evaluate and make certain that your symptoms are not from another more serious problem.  In some cases, your Legacy ER doctor may need to prescribe an allergy medication to treat your symptoms.

Drink up and get plenty of rest.

When your body has an allergic reaction, it behaves as if it’s sick.  That means you need to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest, just as if you had a cold or the flu.

Keep a close eye, nose and throat on your symptoms.

Allergies can leave your body’s defense systems weakened.  Watch your symptoms.  If you develop a fever, cough, sore throat or notice any other change in your symptoms, visit Legacy ER to make sure it’s not an infection, the flu or other illness.  Our doctors can prescribe medication and treatment if your allergies leave you vulnerable to something more serious.

By following a few simple tips, you can greatly reduce the misery of fall allergies.

And, as always, VIP Perks members can always find out more about allergies by posting questions on Ask the ER.

Playing sports builds stronger bodies and self-confidence for millions of children and teenagers. Unfortunately, it also means about 2.5 million trips to emergency rooms and other medical facilities to treat injuries.  Luckily, while serious injuries are rare, they all hurt and no kid wants to miss out on the fun. Here are a few steps you and your young athlete can take to make sure nobody misses out on the action.

Shape up over the summer or early fall.
Many kids let themselves get out of shape over the summer.  Start easing into a workout routine a couple of weeks before serious school practices start.  Being in better shape significantly reduces your risk of strains, sprains and fractures.  In case of an injury, Legacy ER can conduct a thorough exam, including x-rays, to ensure a proper course of treatment.

Pass your physical exam.
Before starting any sport, get a thorough physical exam every year, even if your school doesn’t require one, or if you’re participating in non-school sponsored sports.  A thorough physical may turn up potentially serious medical conditions, as well as highlight strengths and weaknesses that might make one sport a better fit than another.

Have a winning plan to beat the heat.
In Texas, the hot weather lasts well into the fall months.  Drink plenty of fluids, take frequent breaks, wear light clothing, and limit exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day. Everyone should wear a strong sunscreen during daytime workouts, too. A player who feels extreme fatigue, nausea, dizziness, cramping, headache, excessive thirst and changes in heartbeat or sweating should stop and seek immediate medical attention.  In cases of dehydration, Legacy ER can treat athletes with IV fluids and monitor them for signs of more serious complications.

Being well-equipped means you’re prepared for success.
Check all equipment and make sure it fits properly and is age-appropriate.  A mouth guard is a good idea for any contact sport—it not only protects teeth and tongue, but also reduces the risk of concussion. Polycarbonate face guards for football, hockey and other sports may require a physician’s note. Legacy ER will be glad to provide a note for you.

Watch your head!
There are 300,000 sports-related concussions every year.  Mouth guards and properly fitting equipment can reduce the risk, but you and your athlete need to know the danger signs.  Dizziness, feeling faint, or a lapse in memory after a blow to the head are all warning signs of a potential concussion.  A player should not return to a practice or game if he or she has any of these symptoms, and should be evaluated by a physician before playing again.  Legacy ER has CT scan equipment and a team of technicians to help diagnose and treat head trauma, making us a valuable resource for parents, athletes and coaches.

It’s as simple as R-I-C-E.
The good news is that the overwhelming majority of sports injuries are minor bumps, bruises, strains and sprains that will only keep your young star out of action for a few days. All they require is the RICE regimen:

Rest:  If you’re hurt, stop playing (you could make the injury worse) and rest.

Ice:  Apply ice to the injured area to reduce swelling.

Compression:  Wrap the area loosely to reduce swelling and provide support. Check your wrapping periodically to make sure your circulation is still good.

Elevation:  Try to keep the injured area elevated above your heart.

Finally, don’t rush your recovery.  Make sure you are 100% fit before getting back into the game.

By following a few simple rules, young athletes can greatly enhance their chances of enjoying a full season of sports while building strong bodies and great friendships.

And, as always, VIP Perks members can always find out more about home remedies by posting questions on Ask the ER.

Health measures that really make the grade.
Help keep your kids from bringing home more than just homework.

School is not just a fertile breeding ground for young minds. It’s a giant Petri dish for growing germs. Because let’s face it, kids aren’t the most hygienic people to begin with, and by the time they’ve been packed into crowded classrooms, traded lunches, gotten scraped up at recess and ventured into some of the scariest bathrooms on earth, they’re likely to have caught something. But you can fight back. Here are just four simple steps that can help you keep the germs at bay.

1. Wash their hands. You can’t do much about that while they’re at school. But the minute they – or you – get home, have them wash up. And supervise. Insist they use antibacterial soap and scrub for at least 30 seconds before rinsing. Changing clothes is also a good idea. You don’t know where those jeans have been.

2. Get a flu vaccine. Remember, the flu season lasts into the spring, so late fall and early winter are a good time to get vaccinated. And shots for mom and dad aren’t a bad idea either.

3. Get the chicken pox vaccine. The effectiveness of the chicken pox vaccine may decrease over time. A second dose is recommended.

4. Check your child’s immunizations. Make sure all your child’s immunizations are up-to-date. Many of these shots protect your child from potentially life-threatening diseases. The doctors at Legacy ER can help you determine which vaccinations your child may need. See your primary care physician or your local pharmacy for more information on flu vaccines.

Did Mom know best after all?

1. See about Vitamin C. Some studies show Vitamin C may slightly reduce your risk of getting sick in the first place and help you recover faster. But too much of a good thing (more than 2,000 milligrams a day) can make matters worse with side effects that include kidney stones and diarrhea.

2. Have some nice chicken soup. Chicken soup won’t actually make you better. But it may make you feel better. As the warm vapor opens clogged sinuses, the fluids and nutrients help fight dehydration and soothe irritated throat tissues.

3. Should you think zinc? A few studies show zinc may help somewhat reduce cold symptoms. Others show little, if any effect. Chicken soup is cheaper, and frankly it tastes better, too.

4. Tea or toddy. Hot tea isn’t a cure for the common cold or flu, but like hot soup it can help with congestion, dehydration, plus its antioxidants are good for you. Avoid it at night, because you don’t want the caffeine to keep you awake. Substitute herbal tea and add some honey with a squeeze of lemon for a toddy before bedtime—the dash of rum or brandy is optional.

5. There’s the rub. Dab a little menthol ointment under your nose to open up breathing passages and soothe raw skin. Again, you won’t get better any faster, but you’ll feel better sooner.

Other Tips:
Leave the fever alone. Don’t starve it. Don’t feed it. Just let it run its course if you can. Drink plenty of fluids, rest and let your body’s defenses do what they do best. Of course, if your fever goes too high (over 104 degrees), come to Legacy ER at once. High fevers are not only dangerous; they can be a symptom of a more serious condition.

Echinacea. Like zinc, this herbal remedy has earned mixed reviews in trials. Because herbal supplements can interact with other medications, you might want to visit us online or give us a call before trying this remedy.

Go to bed. It’s that simple. Your body needs all its energy to fight your disease. And the more you rest, the less likely you are to be vulnerable to follow-up infections and other complications. Your family members, coworkers or classmates will thank you, too, for not spraying your germs in their environment.

Of course, VIP Perks members can always find out more about home remedies by posting questions on Ask the ER.