Sports Injury and Concussion Recovery in Richardson: How Johnson Medical Associates Accelerates Healing

If you’re sidelined by a sports injury — whether it’s a muscle tear, bone trauma, or a concussion that just won’t resolve — you know how frustrating a slow recovery can be. Many athletes and active individuals in the Richardson and Dallas–Fort Worth area wait weeks or months for injuries to heal, when advanced treatments could have them back in action dramatically faster.

At Johnson Medical Associates, Dr. Alfred Johnson offers a powerful approach to sports injury recovery that most clinics simply don’t provide. With over 35 years of experience in internal and environmental medicine — plus access to hyperbaric oxygen therapy — he and his team help patients heal faster and more completely.

Watch: Dr. Johnson Explains Our Approach to Sports Injuries

Why Traditional Sports Injury Treatment Often Falls Short

Standard sports injury care typically follows the familiar RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation), possibly with pain medications and physical therapy. For concussions, the standard advice is usually rest and wait. But these approaches rely on your body’s baseline healing speed without doing anything to actively accelerate the process.

As Dr. Johnson explains, whether you’re dealing with tissue trauma, bone trauma, or a concussion, there are now evidence-based treatments that can dramatically reduce recovery time — and most sports medicine clinics aren’t offering them.

Our Advanced Approach to Sports Injury Recovery

At Johnson Medical Associates, we use cutting-edge therapies to help your body heal faster and more completely:

1. Concussion Recovery with Hyperbaric Oxygen

Concussions are among the most difficult sports injuries to recover from — and one of the most dangerous to leave untreated. As Dr. Johnson explains, recent literature has shown that hyperbaric oxygen significantly enhances concussion recovery, reducing typical recovery time to just three to five days with three to five hours of hyperbaric treatment. This is a dramatic improvement over the weeks or months of “wait and rest” that conventional care offers.

2. Accelerated Tissue and Bone Healing

For musculoskeletal injuries — whether it’s a torn ligament, strained muscle, or fractured bone — hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases oxygen delivery to the injured tissues by 10 to 15 times the normal level. This massive increase in oxygen creates the ideal environment for rapid tissue repair and bone healing, getting you back to full activity much sooner.

3. Comprehensive Injury Assessment

Not all sports injuries are straightforward. At JMA, Dr. Johnson — an osteopathic physician with hands-on diagnostic skills — provides a thorough evaluation of your injury to ensure nothing is missed. This includes assessing structural alignment, range of motion, and any underlying factors that might slow your recovery.

4. Return-to-Activity Planning

Recovery isn’t just about healing the injury — it’s about getting back to your sport or activity safely and at full capacity. We work with you to ensure your recovery is complete before returning to activity, reducing the risk of re-injury and long-term complications.

Who Should Consider This Approach?

You may benefit from sports injury treatment at JMA if you:

• Have sustained a concussion and want to recover as quickly and safely as possible
• Are dealing with a muscle, ligament, or tendon injury that’s slow to heal
• Have a bone fracture and want to accelerate the healing process
• Are an athlete who needs to return to competition on a timeline
• Have tried rest and standard treatments without adequate improvement
• Want access to hyperbaric oxygen therapy for injury recovery
• Need a physician who understands both the injury and the whole-body picture

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to accelerate your recovery and get back to the activities you love, schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson and his team. We’ve helped athletes and active individuals across the Dallas–Fort Worth area heal faster through advanced treatments that go beyond standard sports medicine.

Johnson Medical Associates
997 Hampshire Lane, Richardson, TX 75080
Phone: (972) 479-0400 | Toll-Free: (800) 807-7555
Monday–Thursday: 9:00am – 4:30pm

Contact Us to Schedule Your Consultation →

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Osteopathic Manipulation in Richardson: How Johnson Medical Associates Restores Mobility and Relieves Pain

If you’re living with chronic joint pain, muscle stiffness, or limited mobility that keeps you from doing the things you enjoy, you may be missing a powerful treatment option. Many patients in the Richardson and Dallas–Fort Worth area rely solely on medications or surgery for musculoskeletal problems — without ever trying the hands-on approach that osteopathic physicians are uniquely trained to provide.

At Johnson Medical Associates, Dr. Alfred Johnson — a board-certified osteopathic physician — has used osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) for years to help patients achieve optimal physical health. With over 35 years of experience, he combines this hands-on expertise with his background in internal and environmental medicine for a truly comprehensive approach to musculoskeletal care.

Watch: Dr. Johnson Explains Osteopathic Manipulation

Why Traditional Pain Treatment Often Falls Short

Standard approaches to joint and muscle pain typically revolve around pain medications, anti-inflammatories, and — when those stop working — surgical referrals. But these approaches often manage the symptom without addressing the underlying structural problem.

As Dr. Johnson explains, many pain and mobility issues stem from restricted areas of the body that aren’t moving the way they should. When joints and tissues lose their normal range of motion, the result is pain, muscle tension, and decreased function. Medications can dull the pain, but they can’t restore proper movement.

Our Hands-On Approach to Musculoskeletal Health

At Johnson Medical Associates, we use osteopathic manipulation to directly address the physical restrictions causing your symptoms:

1. Comprehensive Structural Assessment

Dr. Johnson begins with a thorough hands-on evaluation to identify restricted areas of the body — joints that aren’t moving freely, muscles that are chronically tight, and structural imbalances that may be contributing to your pain. This assessment goes beyond imaging and lab work to understand how your body is actually functioning.

2. Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)

Using precise, hands-on techniques, Dr. Johnson works to mobilize restricted areas and restore normal movement. Osteopathic manipulation can address a wide range of conditions, from back and neck pain to joint stiffness and headaches. The goal isn’t just pain relief — it’s restoring your body’s ability to function optimally.

3. Restoring Function for Daily Life

The ultimate goal of OMT is to help you achieve optimal physical ability in your daily activities. Whether you need to sit at a desk without pain, play with your kids, or return to the activities you love, treatment is focused on getting you back to full function — not just managing symptoms.

4. Integration with Environmental and Internal Medicine

Unlike a standalone chiropractic or physical therapy visit, osteopathic manipulation at JMA is delivered within the context of comprehensive medical care. Dr. Johnson can evaluate whether your musculoskeletal issues are connected to other health factors — inflammation, environmental exposures, or systemic conditions — and address the full picture.

Who Should Consider This Approach?

You may benefit from osteopathic manipulation at JMA if you:

• Experience chronic joint pain or stiffness that limits your daily activities
• Have muscle pain or tension that doesn’t resolve with rest or stretching
• Feel restricted in your range of motion — like your body won’t move the way it used to
• Have tried medications for pain without lasting improvement
• Want a drug-free, hands-on approach to musculoskeletal care
• Are recovering from an injury and need help restoring full function
• Prefer a physician who understands both structural and systemic health

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to address the root cause of your pain and restore your body’s natural mobility, schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson. As a trained osteopathic physician, he brings a unique, hands-on approach that has helped patients across the Dallas–Fort Worth area achieve lasting relief and improved function.

Johnson Medical Associates
997 Hampshire Lane, Richardson, TX 75080
Phone: (972) 479-0400 | Toll-Free: (800) 807-7555
Monday–Thursday: 9:00am – 4:30pm

Contact Us to Schedule Your Consultation →

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Bioidentical Hormone Therapy in Richardson: How Johnson Medical Associates Optimizes Your Hormones for Better Health

If you’re experiencing fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, sleep disruption, or a general sense that something is “off,” your hormones may be out of balance. Many patients in the Richardson and Dallas–Fort Worth area struggle with symptoms of hormonal imbalance for years — often dismissed as stress, aging, or “just part of getting older” — without ever receiving proper testing or treatment.

At Johnson Medical Associates, Dr. Alfred Johnson takes a precise, individualized approach to hormone optimization. With over 35 years of experience in internal and environmental medicine, he and his team use bioidentical hormones with careful measurement to restore your body’s hormonal balance — so you can feel like yourself again.

Watch: Dr. Johnson Explains Our Approach to Hormones

Why Traditional Hormone Treatment Often Falls Short

Standard hormone care often takes a one-size-fits-all approach: synthetic hormones prescribed at standard doses with minimal follow-up testing. But every person’s hormonal needs are different, and what works for one patient may be completely wrong for another.

As Dr. Johnson explains, optimizing hormone levels is a critical part of patient care — but it requires precise, individualized measurement to get right. Generic prescriptions without careful monitoring can leave you feeling just as bad, or create new problems entirely.

Our Personalized Approach to Hormone Optimization

At Johnson Medical Associates, we treat hormone imbalance with the precision it demands:

1. Comprehensive Hormone Testing

Before any treatment begins, we perform thorough laboratory testing to establish your current hormone levels. This includes a complete panel — not just one or two markers — so we understand the full picture of your hormonal health. We measure exactly what each individual needs, because no two patients are alike.

2. Bioidentical Hormone Therapy

Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones are molecularly identical to the hormones your body naturally produces. This means your body recognizes and utilizes them more effectively, often with fewer side effects. Dr. Johnson prescribes bioidentical hormones tailored to your specific deficiencies and health goals.

3. Precise Dosing and Ongoing Monitoring

Hormone optimization isn’t a “set it and forget it” process. We use appropriate measurements to determine exactly what each individual needs, then monitor your levels over time to adjust dosing as your body responds. This careful, data-driven approach ensures you’re always at your optimal levels — not over- or under-treated.

4. Integration with Whole-Body Health

Hormones don’t operate in isolation. At JMA, hormone therapy is part of a broader approach to optimal health that considers your environmental exposures, nutritional status, and other factors that may be affecting your hormonal balance. This comprehensive perspective leads to better, more sustainable results.

Who Should Consider This Approach?

You may benefit from hormone evaluation and optimization at JMA if you:

• Experience persistent fatigue, low energy, or difficulty recovering from activity
• Notice changes in mood, sleep quality, or mental clarity
• Are dealing with unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Have symptoms of menopause or andropause (male hormone decline)
• Feel that synthetic hormone treatments haven’t worked well for you
• Want a precise, lab-tested approach rather than a generic prescription
• Are interested in bioidentical hormones as a more natural alternative

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to stop guessing and start optimizing your hormonal health with a personalized, bioidentical approach, schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson and his team. We’ve helped patients across the Dallas–Fort Worth area restore vitality and well-being through precise hormone optimization.

Johnson Medical Associates
997 Hampshire Lane, Richardson, TX 75080
Phone: (972) 479-0400 | Toll-Free: (800) 807-7555
Monday–Thursday: 9:00am – 4:30pm

Contact Us to Schedule Your Consultation →

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Chronic Fatigue Treatment in Richardson: How Johnson Medical Associates Restores Your Energy at the Root Cause

If you wake up tired, drag through the day, and go to bed exhausted — no matter how much rest you get — you know how frustrating chronic fatigue can be. Many patients in the Richardson and Dallas–Fort Worth area are told their labs look “normal” or that they just need more sleep, while the real underlying cause goes undiagnosed for years.

At Johnson Medical Associates, Dr. Alfred Johnson takes a different approach. With over 35 years of experience in internal and environmental medicine, he and his team specialize in identifying the specific biological reasons behind your fatigue — from hidden infections to mold toxicity to metabolic dysfunction — so you can finally feel like yourself again.

Watch: Dr. Johnson Explains Our Approach to Chronic Fatigue

Why Traditional Fatigue Treatment Often Falls Short

Standard medical care for chronic fatigue typically involves basic bloodwork and, if nothing obvious shows up, a recommendation to rest more, manage stress, or try an antidepressant. But for many patients, the problem runs much deeper: the body’s energy production system itself is compromised.

As Dr. Johnson explains, chronic fatigue often has specific, identifiable causes — infectious diseases like chronic Epstein-Barr or Lyme, mold exposure and mold toxicity, or dysfunction in the citric acid cycle and mitochondria. These issues disrupt your body’s ability to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is literally the energy currency of every cell in your body.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Diagnosing and Treating Chronic Fatigue

At Johnson Medical Associates, we investigate the biological mechanisms behind your fatigue and target them directly:

1. Identifying Hidden Infections

Chronic infections like Epstein-Barr virus and Lyme disease are common but frequently overlooked causes of persistent fatigue. These infections can quietly drain your body’s resources for months or years. We use targeted testing to identify whether an active or reactivated infection is contributing to your symptoms.

2. Mold Exposure and Toxicity Assessment

Mold toxicity is one of the most underdiagnosed causes of chronic fatigue. Mold exposure can create problems with your metabolic system — specifically the citric acid cycle — disrupting your body’s ability to produce ATP efficiently. We evaluate your exposure history and test for mold-related toxicity to determine if this is a factor in your case.

3. Metabolic and Mitochondrial Evaluation

Your body produces energy through the citric acid cycle within the mitochondria of every cell. When this process is disrupted — whether by toxins, infections, or nutritional deficiencies — fatigue is the inevitable result. We assess your metabolic function to pinpoint exactly where the breakdown is occurring.

4. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

One of the most powerful tools in our fatigue treatment arsenal is hyperbaric oxygen therapy. As Dr. Johnson explains, HBOT stimulates the citric acid cycle and the mitochondria in each cell, directly increasing ATP production. It also supports tissue healing and helps detoxify cells so they can function more effectively. For many chronic fatigue patients, this therapy produces noticeable improvements in energy and overall well-being.

Who Should Consider This Approach?

You may benefit from a comprehensive fatigue evaluation at JMA if you:

• Wake up tired and feel exhausted throughout the day despite adequate sleep
• Have been told your bloodwork is “normal” but you still feel terrible
• Suspect mold exposure at home or work may be affecting your health
• Have a history of chronic infections (Epstein-Barr, Lyme, or others)
• Experience brain fog, muscle weakness, or poor recovery alongside fatigue
• Have tried lifestyle changes and supplements without meaningful improvement
• Want to understand why you’re fatigued, not just manage the symptom

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to stop surviving on caffeine and willpower and find the real reason behind your chronic fatigue, schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson and his team. We’ve helped patients across the Dallas–Fort Worth area restore their energy by treating the root cause — not just the symptom.

Johnson Medical Associates
997 Hampshire Lane, Richardson, TX 75080
Phone: (972) 479-0400 | Toll-Free: (800) 807-7555
Monday–Thursday: 9:00am – 4:30pm

Contact Us to Schedule Your Consultation →

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Comprehensive Allergy Testing in Richardson: How Johnson Medical Associates Finds the Root Cause of Your Symptoms

If you’ve been dealing with unexplained symptoms — recurring sinus issues, skin reactions, digestive problems, or respiratory flare-ups — allergies may be the hidden culprit. Many patients in the Richardson and Dallas–Fort Worth area spend years cycling through treatments without ever identifying what they’re reacting to, because standard testing only scratches the surface.

At Johnson Medical Associates, Dr. Alfred Johnson takes a comprehensive, root-cause approach to allergy diagnosis and treatment. With over 35 years of experience in internal and environmental medicine, he and his team use advanced testing methods to pinpoint the specific substances triggering your symptoms — so you can finally get real, lasting relief.

Watch: Dr. Johnson Explains Our Approach to Allergies

Why Traditional Allergy Treatment Often Falls Short

Conventional allergy care usually involves a basic skin scratch test and an antihistamine prescription. But for many patients, symptoms persist because the full spectrum of allergic triggers has never been identified. Standard scratch tests can miss subtler sensitivities, and over-the-counter medications only mask symptoms without addressing the underlying cause.

As Dr. Johnson explains, allergies can be the underlying cause of many unexplained symptoms — affecting your ears, nose, throat, lungs, skin, and even your gastrointestinal tract. The key is identifying exactly which substances you react to so treatment can be targeted and effective.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment

At Johnson Medical Associates, we go well beyond standard allergy testing to build a complete picture of your sensitivities:

1. Intradermal Skin Testing

Unlike standard scratch tests, our intradermal technique tests one item at a time, allowing us to observe cause-and-effect relationships and measure the severity of each reaction with precision. This method is significantly more sensitive and provides a clearer picture of your specific environmental allergies — including pollens, dust, and molds (both indoor and outdoor).

2. Food Sensitivity Testing

Many patients don’t realize that the foods they eat every day could be driving their symptoms. Food sensitivities can trigger reactions in your ears, nose, throat, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. At JMA, we use specialized blood testing to identify food-related immune responses that standard allergy panels miss entirely.

3. Chemical and Metal Sensitivity Testing

Through stool testing, blood testing, and patch testing, we identify sensitivities to chemical substances and metals you may encounter in your daily life — from workplace exposures to cosmetics, fragrances, and other chemical products. These often-overlooked sensitivities can be the missing piece for patients with persistent, hard-to-explain symptoms.

4. Personalized Treatment Plans

Once we’ve identified your specific triggers, we develop a targeted treatment plan. This may include allergen avoidance strategies, immunotherapy to build tolerance over time, and environmental modifications — all tailored to your unique sensitivity profile and daily life.

Who Should Consider This Approach?

You may benefit from comprehensive allergy testing at JMA if you:

• Have unexplained symptoms that haven’t responded to standard treatments
• Experience recurring sinus, respiratory, or skin issues without a clear cause
• Suspect food sensitivities may be contributing to digestive or other symptoms
• Work in an environment with chemical or industrial exposures
• React to cosmetics, fragrances, or cleaning products
• Have been told your allergies are “not severe enough” but still feel miserable
• Want a thorough evaluation beyond standard scratch testing

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to move beyond guesswork and find the root cause of your allergy symptoms, schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson and his team. We’ve helped patients across the Dallas–Fort Worth area achieve lasting relief through precise diagnosis and personalized treatment.

Johnson Medical Associates
997 Hampshire Lane, Richardson, TX 75080
Phone: (972) 479-0400 | Toll-Free: (800) 807-7555
Monday–Thursday: 9:00am – 4:30pm

Contact Us to Schedule Your Consultation →

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Understanding Your Asthma Triggers: How Johnson Medical Associates Gets to the Root Cause

If you’ve been managing asthma with inhalers and medications but still struggle with flare-ups, you’re not alone. Many asthma patients in the Richardson and Dallas–Fort Worth area go years without understanding why their symptoms persist — because most doctors focus on managing symptoms rather than identifying the root cause.

At Johnson Medical Associates, Dr. Alfred Johnson takes a different approach. With over 35 years of experience in internal and environmental medicine, he and his team specialize in uncovering the specific triggers behind your asthma — so you can finally get lasting relief.

Watch: Dr. Johnson Explains Our Approach to Asthma

Why Traditional Asthma Treatment Often Falls Short

Standard asthma care typically follows a predictable pattern: you get prescribed an inhaler, maybe a daily controller medication, and you’re told to avoid obvious triggers. But for many patients, symptoms continue because the underlying cause has never been fully identified.

As Dr. Johnson explains, the goal at JMA is to define the specific triggers for your asthma and develop a personalized plan that addresses the problem at its source — not just masks the symptoms.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Asthma Diagnosis

At Johnson Medical Associates, we go beyond standard testing to build a complete picture of what’s driving your asthma:

1. Environmental Allergy Testing

Pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and chemical exposures are common asthma triggers — but which ones affect you? Through comprehensive intradermal testing (more sensitive than standard scratch tests), we identify your specific environmental sensitivities with precision.

2. Food Sensitivity Testing

Here’s something most asthma patients don’t know: food sensitivities can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms. These reactions are often delayed, meaning they don’t show up immediately after eating — which is why they’re frequently overlooked by standard allergy testing.

At JMA, we use specialized blood tests for IgG and IgE delayed reactions to identify food triggers that other methods miss. For some patients, this is the missing piece that finally explains why their asthma has been so difficult to control.

3. Tolerance-Building Treatment

Beyond identifying and avoiding your triggers, we offer treatments designed to help your body build tolerance to allergic factors over time. Through immunotherapy and other targeted approaches, many patients see significant, lasting improvement in their asthma symptoms.

Who Should Consider This Approach?

You may benefit from a comprehensive asthma evaluation at JMA if you:

• Have been using inhalers for years without significant improvement
• Experience asthma flare-ups without an obvious trigger
• Suspect food or environmental factors may be contributing
• Have been diagnosed with “difficult-to-control” or severe asthma
• Want to reduce your dependence on daily asthma medications
• Have asthma alongside other chronic conditions (mold sensitivity, chronic fatigue, GI issues)

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to move beyond symptom management and find the root cause of your asthma, schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson and his team. We’ve helped patients across the Dallas–Fort Worth area achieve lasting relief through personalized diagnosis and treatment.

Johnson Medical Associates
997 Hampshire Lane, Richardson, TX 75080
Phone: (972) 479-0400 | Toll-Free: (800) 807-7555
Monday–Thursday: 9:00am – 4:30pm

Contact Us to Schedule Your Consultation →

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The mask debate. Masks protect us and others. Not all are made the same. Surgical type masks, the blue ones with elastic ear straps, have been used for years in surgery to protect the patient from bacteria spread from the surgery personnel to the patient on the table in the surgery suite. They are used also by medical personnel in rooms with immunocompromised individuals to protect the patient.

Medical personnel also wear surgical type masks to protect themselves from infected patients.

With COVID, the goal is not to spread the virus if you have it and also to protect yourself from the spread by others. The tighter the mask fits to the face the less likely spreading occurs and also that you will be protected by breathing filtered air thru the mask and not from around it.

The N95 mask is designed so it fits to the face better and with a bigger pocket for the nose but may be harder to breathe through. Homemade masks and face coverings are definitely better than nothing to protect you and others. Using some sort of face covering is important to reduce spread so choosing the one that you can tolerate and will use is so important. Try the different types for fit and tolerance.

I’m seeing face shields being worn without masks. Shields were designed to protect health care workers from the direct contact of body fluids to the eyes and face. They are meant to be worn with a mask.

Wearing the shield without a face covering only prevents direct contact of particles from a cough or sneeze by others around you. You are unprotected with your next breath, as you breathe in the expelled respiratory particles from around the shield that are still suspended in the air. When you cough or sneeze you spread the expelled particles to the shield and the particles are directed down and out into the air, clothing and surfaces below the shield.

Overall, not much protection either from you spreading particles or receiving particles. Wearing one does remind the wearer of COVID-19 and the need to distance.

Keeping a strong immune system. Supporting your immune system is important. Zinc suppresses viruses from multiplying as well as the amino acid Lysine. Vitamin D is also reported to be a protective nutrient. In my practice many patients are severely Vitamin D deficient when I first see them and measure their blood level. Proper guidance by a health professional is helpful in determining what level of supplementation is right for you.

Which are the best tests? Testing can be confusing. The nasal swab, PCR for COVID-19, looks for the virus being present by detecting its specific genetic material. This tells us the virus is present in the nasal cavity and is capable of being spread to other people. True illness occurs when that person has symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, aching and fatigue.

Antibody testing looks for your immune response to the virus. IgM antibodies may be present within a few days of exposure, showing an acute exposure situation. IgG antibodies form after days to weeks after the virus contacts your body and show prior exposure or infection and may indicate some immunity to the virus has developed. IgA antibodies indicated a mucus membrane immune defense response to the virus and generally is seen early on like IgM.

Antigen testing looks for specific proteins on the surface of the virus indicating virus is present. Just like IgM positive you may or may not have symptoms when positive. Results that are obtained quickly are the most helpful in the symptomatic patient.

How testing and treatment all ties together. In medical treatment of a disease early detection and treatment is useful in decreasing the severity of the medical problem. In my experience the same is true with COVID-19. Testing to confirm infection with results obtained within one to two days is important in symptomatic patients to begin early treatment. The longer the time the virus has to multiply before treatment the greater the infective load the ill individual’s immune system has to overcome.

Early treatment in infections generally provides a better outcome. The recent study from Henry, hydroxychloroquine, cut the death by 50 percent. Seeking medical help early when symptoms occur is important in improving the individual’s outcome and recovery.

Dr. Alfred Johnson, D.O. is a physician practicing in Richardson, specializing in internal medicine, environmental medicine and chronic disease. For more information, visit johnsonmedicalassociates.com or call 972-479-0400.

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Getting a diagnosis. It can be hard to get a proper diagnosis because not all doctors are familiar with Lyme disease. Finding a doctor that frequently treats Lyme, such as myself, improves your chances of knowing what is really going on in your body. That physician can recommend the best available testing methods and interpret the results correctly because they know what other types of information can be helpful thanks to their experience in evaluating and treating the disease among their patients. This should be done as quickly as possible because the lab results for long-term Lyme disease is not as accurate. The body may stop producing antibodies after a while.

The two-step test. The Center for Disease Control recommends a two-step test which much both turn out positive before Lyme disease can be confirmed. If a person has a negative result in either of these tests, then Lyme can be ruled out and other causes may be explored. The first test is called ELISA which is an acronym for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The next step is the Western Blot Test. These are just two ways to check for antibodies that can confirm the presence of the B. burgdorferi bacteria in the blood. If only one of these is performed, then the risk of having a false positive is high.

Why direct testing is not advisable. You might wonder why the tests are looking for antibodies instead of the bacteria itself. Other diseases, including COVID-19, can be found through direct testing using the PCR test or polymerase chain reaction. The answer is that direct tests are difficult for Lyme because the bacteria can hide to protect itself from antibiotics. If the test is conducted while they are in hiding, then false negatives are likely. It’s fortunate that the bacteria has no control over the production of antibodies. These are easier to search for in infected persons.

The ELISA Test and Western Blot Test. This is the standard testing protocol. This is good for short-term diagnosis using antibodies as targets. The body produces antibodies to fight infection. Different pathogens like viruses and bacteria result in different antibodies. Their presence indicates that the person’s immune system is fighting the B. burgdorferi bacteria. A negative result is deemed to be conclusive that Lyme disease is out of the question. No further tests are necessary. If positive, then confirmatory test is required. The Western Blot Test is an immunoblot test that also looks for antibodies.

Why false positives occur. There are many reasons why false positive results come out of these tests. Usually, the culprit is the presence of another infection. If your body is currently fighting mold infection, then you might get a positive test even if you don’t have Lyme disease. Physicians should explore other possible causes to prevent wrong diagnoses by asking about possible mold exposure and other issues that are commonly associated with false positives. Mold infections are particularly problematic since the symptoms are like what you would find with Lyme.

There are even cases wherein the patient has no symptoms at all and yet the tests turn out positive. There are two possible explanations. The first is that the bacteria is present in the body but the immune system is so strong that it is not affecting the person. The second is that it is a false positive in which another type of infection is causing the problem. New tests may be needed to pinpoint the exact issue. After all, symptoms might emerge later and make life harder for the individual. Early intervention will lead to better outcomes.

Mold infection can be assessed using a culture of suspected areas. DNA probes and standard growth techniques are utilized. The toxicity in the body can be analyzed using urine, blood, hair, or saliva samples. Longer exposure in a problematic environment increases the chances of inhaling the spores. Known symptoms include fatigue, headaches, joint pain and chronic cough. Consulting a physician familiar with mold illness, Lyme, and the conflicts between them can help you ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. With my years of experience with the matter, my staff and I have been able to help many find their way to better health despite these difficulties.

Dr. Alfred Johnson, D.O. is a physician practicing in Richardson, specializing in internal medicine, environmental medicine and chronic disease. For more information, visit johnsonmedicalassociates.com.

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Evaluating the underlying causes. This is a complicated situation for the physician and the patient and requires time and patience for both the patient and the physician to work through the process of evaluating for underlying causes or triggers. Triggers can be allergies to mold, food, dust mites or animal dander. It also may be due to viruses such at Epstein Barr (Mononucleosis), West Nile Virus or Lyme Disease. Exposure to toxic chemicals in the workplace or at home such as solvents or pesticides affects cell function, thus fatigue. Excessive dampness in a home or building can produce mold growth that in many cases produce mycotoxins, a neurotoxic substance, that affects the nervous system including adverse effects on brain function.

Be mindful of when and where you experience your symptoms. A chronological history is important in understanding the time and place of onset of symptoms including work and living conditions. Frequently, I hear that the illness began shortly after the patient moved from out of state, moved to a new residence or started a new job.

When this is the situation indoor air quality issues are a strong consideration such as mold or chemical exposure. Dampness in a dwelling creates an environment for mold growth that causes allergic conditions such as asthma, cough, eye irritation, nasal congestion and yes – fatigue. If that mold is one that produces mycotoxins such as aspergillus, penicillium or stackyboytris, which are neurotoxins, that affect not only the brain but also the cell mitochondria ATP production (the energy producers) resulting in fatigue.

Food sensitivity and fatigue. If fatigue starts after a meal, then food sensitivity needs to be considered. Foods include what you drink, seasonings and all types of ingredients that one ingests. Recently, I saw a lady that was falling asleep when driving home from work. In taking a history of her problem I asked what was different in what she was eating for lunch. She thought for a moment and then said she had added tea. Skin testing showed a sensitivity to tea. She stopped and the problem resolved.

Many food problems can be defined by doing a Four Day Rotation Diet. This involves eating two to three individual foods per meal and not repeating any of those foods until four days have elapsed. Keep a diary on how you feel after eating. Reactions may occur quickly or be delayed hours, some to the next morning. Pay attention to how you feel on awakening and the quality of sleep you had. Repeat for at least three times for 12 days in total. If you find a reactive food omit the next time around.

Viral infections that can cause fatigue. Some viral infections just make you feel bad and not diagnosed unless the correct tests are run. IgG antibody tests show past exposure or infection. IgM antibodies present in high amounts generally means acute infection. PCR (DNA detection) means the virus is present. Possible offenders could be EBV, West Nile, or Lyme if one has been bitten by a tick. Appropriate testing can be run by a physician.

COVID is the current virus concern. If you have symptoms get tested. Nasal swabs pick up the DNA of the virus. Blood antibody tests evaluate for acute infection, IgM positive, and past exposure is expressed by IgG positive test results. Early treatment as in any infection should lessen the adverse effects of the infection. The recent Henry Ford study is proof of that response.

Stay healthy, pay attention to safeguards and hopefully this will help you understand some of the underlying triggers of fatigue.

Dr. Alfred Johnson, D.O. is a physician practicing in Richardson, specializing in internal medicine, environmental medicine and chronic disease. For more information, visit johnsonmedicalassociates.com.

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Reconnect with Nature

Even though it’s January weather outside, we can always benefit from fresh air (whether cold or warm). This new year, bundle up and hit the trails. An outdoor walk can naturally increase endorphins, improve the functioning of your brain, lower your blood pressure and stress hormones, and bring you a sense of joy and motivation. Not only movement, but simply being outdoors can give you a much-needed refresher. From the soothing sounds of the birds to the fresh, open air, experiencing what’s outside your front door can give you a new outlook on life.

Center Yourself Through Sound and Silence

The benefits of calmness, mindfulness, and centering the self are underrated, as there are many ways to achieve an improved state of mental wellness, which affects your physical wellness. An approaching trend in 2019 utilizes the power of sound, much like those soothing birds on an afternoon walk; some employ the use of singing bowls, sound machines, relaxation videos, and more. Harvard Medical School finds sound has been shown to help improve your cardiovascular health along with your endocrine and immune system. On the other hand, silence can have a similar effect on you through meditation or yoga, which can help you focus on just one of your senses, concentrate on deep muscle relaxation, or reconnect with your physical core.

If You Don’t Snooze, You Lose

We spend so much of our lives sleeping, something incredibly vital to our health. When you’re running on empty, it can increase irritability and make it hard to concentrate. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found in 2017 that sleep disorders are so pervasive in the U.S. that it’s classified as a public health epidemic. Lack of sleep can even interfere with daily tasks and situations like driving or job performance. You can contact us at Johnson Medical Associates to get an overnight sleep apnea screening.

If your resolution for 2019 is to catch more z’s, check out these pro-sleep tips:

1. Make your bedroom an oasis. (Don’t watch tv in your bedroom, and designate it as the place where you sleep only.)
2. Turn the tech off 1 to 2 hours before turning in.
3. Stick to a schedule, and hit the hay at the same time every night.
4. Make sure you have the right temperature in the bedroom, anywhere from 60 to 68 degrees.
5. Cut down on caffeine.

Learn Something New in 2019

Expand your horizons and learn something new in 2019. Whether it’s a new language, how to knit, or perhaps playing an instrument, challenging yourself to a new skill can do wonders. It improves your mental well being, critical thinking, and can slow cognitive aging. Music is a great example, as it can alter your mood and be an emotional outlet. Turn your joy or sadness into a piece of art by expressing yourself, while improving how you think and mentally perform. Playing an instrument can also help sharpen your reading, listening and concentration levels as you recognize different notes. Meanwhile, it can better regulate your breathing, directly benefiting your respiratory system.

Check Yourself Before You Check into 2019

2019 is a chance to start new, which means you want to be sure everything’s working right from the start. Visit your doctor or contact us at Johnson Medical Associates to get that baseline checkup before making your 2019 health and wellness plans.

The post 5 Healthy Ways to Start the New Year Right appeared first on Johnson Medical Associates.