Women’s Health

 

 

An annual women’s health and wellness exam is very important for your overall health as a woman. At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, we will conduct a thorough well woman exam, reviewing your general and gender-specific health.

+ What does a women’s health exam entail?

A women’s health exam, also known as a well woman exam, is your annual exam with your primary care physician. Generally performed once a year, a women’s health exam consists of routine examination procedures. Wellness exams include: height and weight measurements, blood tests, listening to your heart and lungs, and checking reflexes. Additionally, your physician will perform a Pap smear, pelvic, and breast exam.

+ What is a Pap smear?

A Pap smear is a test that takes a swab of the cells from your cervix. The swab is sent off to the lab and tested for any abnormalities that may indicate the presence of precancerous or cancerous cells within the cervix. Based on the results of your Pap smear, additional testing or follow up visits may be required.*

+ What is a breast exam?

An annual breast exam, given by your physician, is when your doctor will examine around the breast, feeling the breast for any lumps for abnormalities. They will often check in to see how often you are performing self-examinations. Self-administered breast exams are recommended once a month. Based on what your doctor finds, additional testing may be required.

+ What else should be addressed during a women’s health exam?

Your physician will want to be updated on any lifestyle changes. They will want to make a note of any changes to your family medical history, exercise, diet habits, and especially your health. If you notice any changes to your health or any concerns, this is the best time to consult your physician.

+ How do I prepare for my women’s health exam?

In order to make the most of your well woman exam, make a list of everything that you are concerned about in regards to your health. Note any significant changes to your lifestyle including professional and personal. Make a list of any new medications you are taking and bring them with you. Most importantly, make note of any new conditions that have risen within your family since your previous visit. These need to be added to your family medical history.

+ Schedule An Appointment at our clinic

To schedule a women’s health exam with one of our providers at Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, call our office at (604) 945-0032.

Men’s Health


Men’s health examinations vary slightly between different age ranges. These exams generally consist of a physical exam, blood tests, BMI, and family and medical history. More extensive testing that is age-specific for the male gender will be done as well. At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, we perform a thorough examination on our male patients, taking a detailed medical history, listening to all concerns, and performing all age-appropriate tests to ensure an optimum preventative exam.

+ What is a men’s health exam?

A men’s health exam is an annual wellness exam that is specific to men. Recommended yearly, a men’s health examination will vary from patient to patient based on medical history and age. Medical exams increase in tests and specificity by decades, although these time lines may vary. Generally, all examinations will consist of a physical examination and testicular exam. Blood tests may also be ordered, depending upon family history, medical concerns, and when certain tests were last performed.*

+ What is a testicular exam?

A testicular exam is when the physician inspects the feel and appearance of the testicles, looking for any lumps or changes in appearance. It is recommended that patients perform monthly self-examinations as a preventative step before an annual exam.

+ What exams are performed that are age-specific?

As you age, more exams will be performed. In your 20s-30s, most exams will be testicular, cholesterol, STD screenings, and possibly screenings for heart disease based on family medical history. Screenings for prostate cancer, vision tests, and diabetes screenings, are added on in your 40s. In your 50s, screening begin for colon cancer, electrocardiograms are administered, and depression screenings take place. Additional cancer screenings and lipid panels are ordered in your 60s. In your 70s and onward, screenings for specific types of heart disease and dementia are added on. Remember, it is important to note, that these are only an overview of the different screening and tests that may take place. They vary greatly from patient to patient.*

+ Schedule a consultation in Coquitlam, British Columbia

If you would like to schedule a men’s health visit at Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, please call our office at (604) 945-0032

Geriatric Care


As we age, our bodies require different examinations and treatments. Elderly patients require special wellness examinations known as geriatric care. Most importantly, geriatric care is incredibly delicate, requiring patience, compassion, and a meticulous examination. At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, we provide thorough and age-sensitive are to our geriatric patients.

+ Who is a geriatric patient?

Geriatric patients are older people with overall physical, age-related impairments. Patients are labeled geriatric based on “health” rather than age. Even though, there is no set age for when a patient becomes geriatric and needs geriatric care, it most commonly begins in the late-60s to mid-70s.

+ What does a geriatric exam entail?

Geriatric exams vary based on the patient. Sometimes two separate examinations may be required because the patient becomes fatigued. Generally, in a geriatric wellness exam, a physical examination will be given. The patient will be asked about any changes to their lifestyle, body, any new symptoms or ailments. At this stage in life, many tests are required for preventative screening. Some of these include:

  • arthritis screenings
  • cancer screenings
  • dementia screenings Additionally, if the patient has a caregiver (which many do), the physician will check for any signs of neglect or elder abuse.

+ What are the signs of elder abuse?

The signs of elder abuse can include:

  • frequent bruising in hard to reach areas
  • finger marks (bruises) on the skin
  • fear of caregiver
  • bruises to the genitalia

+ How long should a geriatric exam last?

Geriatric exam lengths different depending upon the patient’s needs. Geriatric exams generally take longer than physical exams for younger patients. Physicians need to take their time with the patient, giving them time to recall their day to day and any concerns or symptoms that should be addressed. The physical will have to rely on the patient’s recollection of their day to day, as well as any other clues that the physician may be able to spot: significant weight fluctuation, signs of depression, overall physical and mental health. It is important to find a physician that is patient and has experience with geriatric care.

+ Schedule a consultation in Coquitlam, British Columbia

If you would like to schedule a geriatric care visit at Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, please call our office at (604) 945-0032 for an appointment.

Family Wellness

 

 

Annual family wellness visits to your physician are a must. Keeping up with your children’s health is a great way to stay on top of any medical issues that may arise, as well as checking your child’s development and growth. Not to mention, giving the parents peace of mind knowing that their child is healthy. At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, we perform thorough family wellness examinations on children, from their toddler years into adolescence.

+ What is wellness exam?

A wellness exam is an annual examination, usually performed around your child’s birthday. These examinations are standard to track your child’s growth, development and to catch any medical issues that may arise within the year. At this time, your physician can have an in depth conversation with and your child about any lifestyle habits or changes, as well as note as areas of concern or irregularities. Wellness exams vary from patient to patient, based on previous medical history and current concerns. Generally, height and weight are taken, as well as blood samples and immunizations may be given, if needed.*

+ What is a toddler wellness exam?

A toddler wellness exam begins when your child turns 2. Occurring annually, this exam will track your toddler’s development and growth. Your doctor will check your child’s BMI, height, weight, and blood pressure. They will perform an external body exam, checking the entire body, including genitalia. Furthermore, your physician will listen to your toddler’s heart and lungs, checking for any abnormalities. During this exam your doctor may also go over developmental milestones that your toddler should be reaching as they grow into childhood.

+ What are adolescent wellness exams?

Teen wellness exams take place when your child begins to enter puberty. The wellness exam for adolescents is similar to toddlers. Your physician notes height and weight, listens to the heart and lungs, and takes blood and urine samples. Similarly, your doctor will update any needed immunizations and do an all over body exam. Having said that, at this stage in your teen’s life, your doctor will likely discuss healthy habits and lifestyle choices: safe sex, drinking, smoking, etc. If your teen is sexually active, additional testing may be ordered to check your STIs or pregnancies. Female patients may be asked about their menstrual cycle, if they have or have not started, and if they are having any issues or irregular periods.

+ Schedule An Appointment at our clinic

If you would like to schedule a family wellness visit for you and your family, please call Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic at (604) 945-0032 to schedule an appointment.

PRP For Joint Health

 

 

Chronic inflammation of joints can become a serious issue. If left untreated the pain can worsen over time, ultimately disrupting the patient’s routine and lowering overall quality of life. PRP for joint health is an excellent treatment option to hydrate and revitalize your joints.* At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, we inject PRP into the affected joint areas to increase hydration and reduce inflammation.

+ What is PRP?

PRP, which stands for platelet-rich plasma, is just as it sounds. It’s plasma enriched by platelets. Plasma is filled with proteins that help blood clot and promote healing. By injecting PRP into areas of concern, the platelet-rich plasma stimulates the body to grow healthy, new cells.*

+ Where does PRP come from?

PRP comes from the patient’s own bloodstream. Blood is comprised of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. By separating the blood particles, using a process called centrifugation, your provider is able to isolate the PRP and prepare it for injection.

+ What does PRP for joint health treat?

PRP can treat the following joint health concerns:

  • knee pain
  • arthritis
  • hip pain
  • joint osteoarthritis
  • ankle pain
  • elbow pain

+ How long does PRP take to work?

PRP for joint health is not a quick fix. Over time, as the tissues are repaired, the pain begins to dissipate. The treatment time line and healing process is different for every patient. Generally, if there are no signs of improvement after a few months, another injection will be tried or alternative course of treatment recommended. Ultimately, your injection amount and treatment length will be determined by your doctor.

+ Am I a candidate for PRP for joint health?

In order to determine if you are a candidate for PRP for joint pain, a conversation with your physician is required. Ultimately, your doctor will decide if PRP injections are right for you. However, if you are experiencing joint pain, it is worth a conversation with your provider to see if PRP can alleviate your symptoms.

+ Schedule a Consultation with Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic

If you would like to learn more about PRP for joint health, please call our Coquitlam office at (604) 945-0032 to schedule a consultation with one of our expert providers.

*Individual results may vary; not a guarantee.

PRP For Hair Loss

 

 

Hair loss can be caused by many underlying medical issues. Affecting both men and women, hair loss does not only affect the patient physically but psychologically as well. Hair loss, unexplained or known, can cause self-confidence issues and added stress. At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, we use PRP to treat hair loss and thinning.

+ Why does hair loss occur?

Hair loss occurs for a multitude of reasons. Sometimes the reasons are even unknown. Some of the most common reasons/conditions behind hair loss include:

  • general aging
  • stress
  • illness
  • medications
  • family history
  • hormonal changes
  • medical conditions

+ What is PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma, also known as PRP, is a form of plasma, taken from the patient’s bloodstream, used to stimulate repair and growth with the scalp. Our blood is made up of blood cells and platelets. Therefore, by obtaining a blood sample from the patient, your provider can separate the plasma from the rest of the blood and inject the PRP into the target areas.

+ How does the PRP for hair loss procedure work?

Hair loss treatments using PRP are fairly simple. The provider takes a blood sample and places it into a centrifugation machine. The machine separates the particles within the blood sample, allowing the provider to remove only the plasma. Once the plasma is prepared, the provider injects the PRP into the target areas. The platelet-rich plasma stimulates the hair follicles, thickening the thinning areas, and enhancing the scalp overall.*

+ What can PRP for hair loss treat?

PRP for hair loss can treat the following concerns:

  • reduced hairline*
  • bald patches*
  • thinning hair line*

+ How long does PRP therapy for hair loss take?

PRP for hair loss treatments vary from patient to patient. The provider and patient will figure out an appropriate treatment timeline based on the areas being treated and how effective initial treatments are.

+ Schedule a Consultation with Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic

To find out if you are a candidate for PRP treatments for hair loss, please call Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic at (604) 945-0032 to schedule a consultation with one of our providers.

PRP With Derma Needling

 

 

PRP with derma needling is an excellent, non-surgical option for treating blemishes, wrinkles, and scars on the face and neck.* At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, we combine PRP with derma needling to ensure optimum results.*

+ What is derma needling?

Derma needling, also known as microneedling, is a non-surgical, minimally-invasive procedure that triggers collagen and elastin production beneath the skin. Using a needling device, your provider makes tiny punctures into the top layer of your skin. This stimulates collagen production. Another term for derma needling is collagen induction therapy. As the name suggests, the needles stimulate the skin cells, telling them its time to release more collagen and elastin into the body and repair any damaged areas. Combined with PRP, derma needling offers an excellent option to rejuvenate and repair the skin without undergoing surgery.*

+ What is PRP?

PRP, which stands for platelet-rich plasma, stimulates the healing process during a procedure. It is used by many physicians to speed up the recovery process following derma needling procedures. After drawing a sample of the patient’s blood, the provider places the blood sample into a centrifuge. The centrifuge machine spins the blood around, separating the components. This makes it possible for your doctor to remove just the plasma. Once the plasma is separated, your provider prepares it for injection.

+ What can PRP with derma needling treat?

At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, we use derma needling with PRP to treat different skin conditions caused by sun damage, acne, and aging. Some of the most common conditions include:

  • wrinkles
  • fine lines
  • brown spots
  • sun spots
  • hyperpigmentation
  • enlarged pores
  • acne scars
  • loose skin

+ How does the procedure work?

First, the provider will identify the areas of concern and review what to expect during the procedure. This generally takes place during an initial consultation to ensure that the patient is a good candidate for derma needling. Your provider will also give instructions on how to properly prepare for the procedure. On the day of the procedure, your provider will make sure that nothing has been done that could adversely affect treatment. For example, it is not recommended to use any self-tanning products or spend time in the sun before your derma needling procedure. Additionally, it is highly encouraged to stay hydrated. Once your provider has assessed any concerns, the treatment begins. From there, a derma needling device is used to stimulate the skin. Finally, the provider injects the plasma into the skin, stimulating the healing process.*

+ Are there any side effects?

Though unlikely, side effects may occur. Some common side effects include:

  • bleeding
  • bruising
  • peeling
  • skin sensitivity

+ Schedule a consultation at our clinic

To learn more about derma needling with PRP and to find out if you are a candidate, please call our Coquitlam office at (604) 945-0032 to schedule a consultation with one of our providers.

*Individual results may vary; not a guarantee.

Fillers 

 

 

As we age, it is inevitable that our skin will begin to lose its firmness and elasticity. Fillers are an excellent, non-surgical option to reduce the signs of aging. At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, our expert providers can help you identify the most appropriate fillers for your skin and help diminish the signs of aging.

+ What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers, also known as injectable fillers, are mostly comprised of hyaluronic acid, which naturally occurs within the human body. Hyaluronic acid is commonly found within the joints and eyes. It is responsible for lubricating and hydrating these areas. By injecting hyaluronic acid into the face, dermal fillers plump up the skin, reducing wrinkles and adding fullness back into the face.* Two common types of dermal fillers are Juvederm and Restylane.

+ What is Juvederm?

Juvederm is a type of dermal filler. It can be injected easily and quickly into target areas. Composed primarily of hyaluronic acid, Juvederm is very popular for treating fine lines, wrinkles, and adding volume to the lips.

+ What is Restylane?

Restylane is another type of dermal filler that commonly treats volume loss, wrinkles, fine lines, and plumps the lips. Restylane is also popular for giving more definition and volume to the cheeks and temples.

+ How long does the procedure last?

Treatment times vary from procedure to procedure and patient to patient. However, dermal filler procedures are generally very quick. They are known as “lunchtime cosmetics” because the procedure is so quick that it can be administered during a lunch break.

+ When do results begin to show?

The appearance of results vary from patient to patient but some difference is usually noticeable immediately following the procedure. It can take a few weeks for full results to take effect.

+ What are the side effects from dermal filler injections?

There are minimal side effects from dermal filler procedures. Furthermore, side effects vary from person to person, depending upon skin sensitivity and reaction to the procedure, as well as pre and post procedure care. Some of the most common side effects include: redness, swelling, and tenderness to the injection site.

+ Schedule a consultation at our clinic

If you would like to learn more about Juvederm or Restylane injections in Coquitlam, please call our office at (604) 945 0032 to schedule a consultation with one of our providers. *Individual results may vary; not a guarantee.

Botox and Dysport For Cosmetic Treatment

 

 

Botox and Dysport are both neuromodulators used to treat fine lines and wrinkles. Over time, our skin begins to lose its natural hydration, causing creases to form on the outermost layer of the skin. Neuromodulators are an effective and efficient non-surgical option for treating fine lines and wrinkles.*

+ What are neuromodulators?

Neuromodulators are injections that relax wrinkles within the skin.* Different types of neuromodulator brands include: Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin. At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, we use Botox and Dysport for cosmetic procedures.

+ What is Botox?

Botox, the first neuromodulator created, is still the most popular on the market. It is used for both cosmetic and medical treatments, and it is still considered the most effective and diverse injectable available. Botox temporarily freezes the signal transmission from the nerves to the muscles, stopping the creation of wrinkles and fine lines, as well as reducing the appearance of preexisting ones.*

+ What can Botox treat?

Cosmetically, Botox can treat the following concerns:

  • fine lines
  • wrinkles
  • forehead lines
  • crow’s feet
  • gummy smile
  • frown lines

+ What is Dysport?

Dysport is a different brand of neuromodulator. It is considered by some to spread farther, work quicker, and last longer than other neuromodulators.* Thus, Dysport is commonly used to treat larger areas of wrinkles. Dysport is an excellent option for those patients who have found Botox injections ineffective.

What are the side effects of using injectables? Botox and Dysport are both cosmetic injectables, and, while side effects are minimal, they may occur. Additionally, some of the most common side effects include:

  • redness
  • swelling
  • sensitivity
  • bruising
  • headache

+ How long do injectable treatments last?

There is no definitive time frame on how long injectables will last; time frames will vary depending upon the patient. Generally, neuromodulator treatments last for several months.* However, they are not permanent and will need to be continued to keep wrinkles and fine lines from reappearing.

+ Schedule a consultation at our clinic

To learn more about injectable treatments, please call our office at (604) 945-0032 and schedule a consultation with one of our providers.

Therapeutic Botox

 

 

Botox is the most popular neuromodulator for cosmetic treatments. However, a less known fact is that it is also a popular therapeutic treatment for many medical conditions. At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, we use Botox to treat many ailments including: TMJ, hyperhidrosis, migraines, and neck and back pain.

+ What is Botox?

Botox, a neuromodular, blocks nerve activity in the muscles.* Most commonly used for cosmetic treatments, Botox is the most popular and diverse neuromodulator available. Even though it is well-known for cosmetic treatments, Botox is a very effective treatment for certain medical issues.

+ What can Botox treat therapeutically?

Botox can treat several medical conditions including:

  • back pain*
  • neck pain*
  • migraines*
  • temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ)*

+ What is Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ)?

Temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ) is caused by displacing or overusing the joint connecting the jawbone and the skull. When TMJ occurs, it causes pain in the jaw, that can travel into the ear canal, as well as mild to severe headaches.

+ How can Botox treat TMJ?

Therapeutic Botox treatments for TMJ include relaxing the overworked jaw muscle. Injected into the troubled joint, it prevents the muscle from moving unconsciously (for example: teeth grinding) or using too much power while chewing and talking.*

+ How can Botox treat migraines?

In order to treat migraines, your doctor will inject the neuromodulator into multiple areas on your face and neck. These include: the temples, forehead, the bridge of your nose, back of your neck and even the upper back.

+ How frequently should injections occur?

Treatment plans vary between patients. Based on your response to the serum, your provider will recommend how often injections should take place. Generally, the time between treatment sessions is a few months.

+ How can therapeutic Botox treatments relieve hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is another term for excessive sweating. Additionally, there are two main types of hyperhidrosis: focal and generalized. Focal hyperhidrosis occurs when the sweating is localized to one area. The most common areas are: the palms, the feet, and the underarms. Generalized hyperhidrosis is when excessive sweating affects the entire body. In order to treat excessive sweating, your provider makes therapeutic injections into the areas of concern, stopping the nerves from sending signals to the overstimulated sweat glands.*

+ Schedule a consultation at our clinic

To find out if you are a candidate for therapeutic treatments in Coquitlam, please contact our office at (604) 945-0032 to schedule a consultation with one of our providers.

*Individual results may vary; not a guarantee.

SculpSure

 

 

Stubborn fat is a common complaint among men and women alike. SculpSure, a non-invasive, non-surgical laser treatment, can address stubborn fat that is unlikely to disappear with just diet and exercise.* At Eagle Ridge Medical Clinic, SculpSure is our treatment of choice to get rid of stubborn fat in the abdomen, back, flanks and submental area (under the chin).*

+ How does SculpSure work?

SculpSure is a non-invasive, non-surgical laser treatment. Using energy, the laser transforms the energy into heat that targets fat cells. Once identified, the laser heats up the stubborn fat, breaking it apart. Eventually, the fat cells are eliminated naturally through the lymphatic system. Cells that have been successfully removed will not regenerate. However, it is important to note that proper exercise and diet plans should be followed to prevent new fat cell growth.

*Individual results may vary; not a guarantee.

+ What is submental fat?

Submental fat is the fat that forms in the region underneath your chin. When submental fat grows prominently in this region it can cause facial fullness, also known as a double chin. Submental fat can be hard to reduce with diet and exercise alone. It can also be caused by a variety of factors. *Individual results may vary; not a guarantee.

+ What can cause submental fat?

Submental fat can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

  • weight gain
  • diet
  • genetics
  • aging

+ What are the side effects from a SculpSure treatment?

One of the most inviting things about this treatment is that there are little to no side effects. Because it is non-invasive and non-surgical, the risk for side effects is minimal. During treatment, patients have reported experiencing some tingling and pinching sensations. After treatment, signs of redness, swelling, bruising, and soreness may occur.

+ Am I a candidate for SculpSure?

Ideal candidates for SculpSure treatments are individuals who maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle. They are near their ideal body weight but are only looking to address a few pockets of stubborn fat.

+ Schedule an appointment at our clinic

If you would like to learn more about SculpSure treatments and to find out if you are a good candidate for the procedure, call our clinic at (604) 945-0032 and speak to a member of our staff.

*Individual results may vary; not a guarantee.