Emed Multispecialty Group

News & Updates



Why So Many Young Adults Are Developing High Blood Pressure

High Blood Pressure Isn’t Just an “Older Adult” Problem Anymore

If you think high blood pressure only affects people over 50, you might be surprised to learn it’s increasingly being diagnosed in young adults — even those in their 20s and 30s.

At EMED, we’ve seen a noticeable rise in younger patients with elevated blood pressure during routine visits. So why is this happening?

First, What Is High Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It’s measured using two numbers:

Systolic (top number): pressure when your heart beats

Diastolic (bottom number): pressure when your heart rests

A normal reading is under 120/80. High blood pressure (also called hypertension) starts at 130/80 or above.

Left untreated, it increases your risk for serious issues like heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems — even if you feel fine right now.

Why Is It Happening Earlier?

Several factors may be contributing to this trend:

Stress: Chronic job stress, financial pressure, or emotional burnout

Sedentary lifestyles: Sitting too long, too little movement

Diet: High intake of sodium, processed foods, and sugary drinks

Sleep disruption: Irregular sleep or sleep apnea

Undiagnosed health issues: Like hormone imbalances, anxiety, or insulin resistance

Some people also have a genetic predisposition to hypertension — meaning even healthy-looking young adults can develop it.

Why Early Detection Matters

High blood pressure is known as a silent condition — you may not feel symptoms until it’s already causing damage.

That’s why routine blood pressure checks with your primary care provider are so important. The earlier it’s caught, the easier it is to manage — often without needing lifelong medication.

What You Can Do Today

Get a check-up (yes, even if you’re young and feel fine).

Reduce processed foods and sodium.

Move your body regularly — even 30 minutes of walking helps.

Prioritize sleep and stress relief.

Know your family history.

High blood pressure doesn’t care how old you are. The good news? It’s manageable — especially when caught early. At EMED, we’re here to help you stay ahead of it with personalized care, lab testing, and lifestyle support designed for you.



Chronic Pain in Your 30s? You’re Not Alone

If you are in your 30s and dealing with chronic pain every day you are not imagining it and you are definitely not alone. More and more adults in their 30s are visiting primary care providers and pain specialists with complaints of persistent back pain neck stiffness migraines fatigue and joint discomfort.

In fact we are seeing a major shift in how pain affects younger populations and millennials are leading the trend.

Why Is Chronic Pain Showing Up So Early?

There are several reasons why chronic pain is becoming more common in younger adults

  • Work-life stress from demanding schedules remote jobs and long hours in front of screens
  • Poor posture and inactivity from sedentary lifestyles
  • Old sports injuries that were never properly treated
  • Autoimmune conditions and hormonal changes that often go undiagnosed
  • Mental health stressors like anxiety and burnout that can manifest physically

You do not have to be over 50 to start feeling the weight of chronic pain. The reality is that your 30s are a decade of transition and your body is often the first to tell you when something is off.

The Data Is Clear

According to recent national health reports

  • Over 25 percent of adults aged 25 to 44 report dealing with chronic pain
  • Back pain is the number one issue followed by migraines and joint pain
  • In Jacksonville clinics like EMED are seeing a rise in young professionals looking for pain relief and support

The good news is that you do not have to live with it.

You Deserve to Be Taken Seriously

One of the most frustrating parts of having chronic pain in your 30s is feeling dismissed. You might hear things like “You are too young to be in pain” or “It’s probably just stress”

But here at EMED we believe that every symptom matters. You deserve to be heard and treated with respect and compassion. We do not just treat symptoms — we look for the root cause and create a care plan designed around your needs

What EMED Offers for Pain Relief

Whether your pain is constant or comes and goes EMED is here to help. We provide access to:

  • Board-certified providers who specialize in chronic pain and primary care
  • Non-opioid treatment options including anti-inflammatory therapies and physical medicine referrals
  • On-site diagnostic services so you do not have to travel elsewhere for labs or imaging
  • Injections and procedures to target localized pain
  • Supportive care to manage related symptoms like anxiety fatigue or weight gain

We focus on long-term relief and sustainable wellness — not just quick fixes.

You Are Not Alone in This

Your pain is valid and your health is worth prioritizing. Chronic pain can affect every part of your life — your energy your mood your relationships and your goals — but there is help available. And it starts with a conversation

If you are ready to take control of your health we are here to support you every step of the way. Whether it is your first time seeing a primary care provider or you have been searching for answers for years we invite you to discover the difference at EMED

Book your appointment today and let us help you start feeling better for good

 



Brain Injury Awareness: March to Make a Difference

What is a Brain Injury?

A brain injury is any damage to the brain caused by external trauma or internal factors, which can disrupt normal brain function. Brain injuries come in many forms, and their effects can vary widely depending on the type, severity, and location of the injury.

The Impact of Brain Injuries

Brain injuries are a leading cause of disability worldwide, and their impact can be profound. In the United States alone, millions of people suffer from brain injuries each year. The effects can be temporary or lifelong, affecting everything from a person’s ability to work and care for themselves to their relationships with family and friends.

Some of the most common long-term effects include:

Each brain injury is unique, and its effects can differ based on the injury’s location, severity, and the individual’s age and overall health.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Brain Injury 

   Many brain injuries, especially mild TBIs like concussions, can be difficult to recognize immediately. Early detection is key to preventing further damage and beginning the recovery process. Some signs and symptoms to look out for include:

  • Physical Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light and sound.
  • Cognitive Symptoms: Confusion, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or difficulty making decisions.
  • Emotional Symptoms: Mood swings, irritability, depression, or anxiety.
  • Sleep Problems: Difficulty sleeping, sleeping too much, or feeling fatigued even after rest.

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms following an accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Preventing Brain Injuries

While it’s not always possible to prevent brain injuries, there are precautionary steps that can reduce the risk. Here are a few ways to protect yourself and others.

Wear helmets, when biking, playing sports, or engaging in any activity with a risk of head injury, always wear a properly fitting helmet. Use seat belts, always wear your seatbelt in the car, regardless of whether you’re the driver or a passenger. Create a safe home environment, for older adults or individuals at risk of falls, ensure that your home is free of obstacles, has proper lighting, and includes safety features like grab bars in bathrooms. Follow concussion protocols in sports, for athletes, make sure that concussion safety protocols are followed. Any player showing symptoms of a concussion should be removed from play and evaluated by a healthcare professional before returning to the game.

Why you should help raising awareness

Brain injuries affect millions of people each year, yet many people are still unaware of their long-term impacts or how they can be prevented. By raising awareness during Brain Injury Awareness Month, we can make a difference in the lives of those who are affected. Through education, prevention efforts, and support, we can help individuals living with brain injuries lead better lives and reduce the risk for others.

This March, take the time to learn more. Together, we can make a lasting impact and create a safer, more supportive world for brain injury survivors.

Want to get involved? Share this post, donate to brain injury organizations, or participate in local events. Every little bit helps in the fight for better prevention, care, and support for brain injury survivors.  

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. To get personalized guidance and support to manage your diabetes effectively, consider making an appointment with Emed Multispecialty Group today. By staying informed, proactive, and engaged with your healthcare team, you can navigate the challenges of brain injury and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.


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March Into: Raising Awareness for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

 Colorectal Cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women. This month aims to educate the public on the importance of early detection, prevention, and the resources available for individuals affected by this disease. With early screening and lifestyle changes, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, which makes awareness and action during this month even more crucial.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

It refers to cancer that starts in the colon (large intestine) or rectum. Most colorectal cancers begin as polyps, which are small, non-cancerous growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, some of these polyps may become cancerous, potentially leading to a diagnosis of colorectal cancer.

Who’s at risk?

While anyone can develop colorectal cancer, certain risk factors may increase the likelihood. These include:

Although these risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer, it is important to note that many people who develop colorectal cancer have no family history or obvious risk factors.

5 Signs to Watch For

In its early stages, colorectal cancer often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms. That’s why screenings are essential. However, as the cancer grows, the following signs may appear:

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Early detection through screenings like colonoscopies can save lives.

Prevention and Early Detection: The Key to Survival

One of the most important aspects of colorectal cancer is early detection, which can significantly improve survival rates. Screening is one of the most effective ways to detect colorectal cancer before symptoms appear and before it becomes more advanced. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin regular screening at age 45, though those with higher risk factors may need to start earlier.

 

6 Ways to Prevent Colorectal Cancer

  • Regular Screening: Colonoscopies and stool tests can help detect cancer early or even prevent it by removing precancerous polyps.
  • Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber may help lower the risk, while reducing the intake of red meats and processed foods.
  • Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and promotes overall health.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of colorectal cancer, so maintaining a healthy weight is crucial.
  • Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
  • Know Your Family History: If colorectal cancer runs in your family, discuss screening with your doctor earlier than age 45.

While not all colorectal cancers can be prevented, these lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk and improve overall health.

 

How You Can Get Involved

It’s a time to come together and make a real impact. Colorectal cancer affects millions, but with the right awareness, prevention, and early detection, we can save lives.

Spread the word, share information about colorectal cancer prevention, screenings, and symptoms on social media or in your community. Wear blue, March 6th is Dress in Blue Day, a national campaign to raise awareness for colorectal cancer; wear blue to show your support. Encourage screening, remind family members and friends over the age of 45 (or earlier if they have a family history or risk factors) to schedule their screenings.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, but awareness and action are essential. By participating in Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we can encourage more people to get screened, adopt healthier lifestyles, and support those affected by the disease. Early detection is key to improving survival rates, and by spreading knowledge, we can help save lives.

This March, take the time to learn more. Together, we can make a significant impact in the fight against colorectal cancer.

Want to make a difference? Share this post, donate to colorectal cancer organizations, or encourage those in your life to get screened. Your action can help save lives.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. To get personalized guidance and support to manage your diabetes effectively, consider making an appointment with Emed Multispecialty Group today. By staying informed, proactive, and engaged with your healthcare team, you can navigate the challenges of brain injury and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.

 


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