EXPERT
Michael James
Family Practitioner
Dr. Michael James is a family practitioner practicing in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Dr. James specializes in comprehensive health care for people of all ages. In addition to diagnosing and treating illnesses, family practitioners also put focus on preventative care with routine checkups, tests and personalized coaching on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Dr. James possesses immense general knowledge on maintaining health and today, family practitioners provide more care for the underserved and rural populations than any other medical specialty.
Michael James
- Ocho Rios, Jamaica
- University of the West Indies
- Accepting new patients
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Health checkup?
A family physician or General Medical Practitioner would be adequate for your initial visit.
Is it safe to get a tetanus and shingles booster at the same time?
Hi, We are assuming that you have had a tetanus and a shingle vaccine already. If you feel that you are not able to tolerate any one injection, please tell your health care provider. READ MORE
Hi, We are assuming that you have had a tetanus and a shingle vaccine already. If you feel that you are not able to tolerate any one injection, please tell your health care provider. They can be taken together, but, with your concern, they can be taken on separate days.
What is the first sign of a kidney stone?
Most kidney stones have no symptoms. Those that are symptomatic usually have pain in the flank area as an early sign.
Why do I have a bump on my neck?
Hi,
You have not stated where (location) on your neck is this "bump." When attempting to make a diagnosis, we require much more details on your "bump," e.g., when did you notice READ MORE
Hi,
You have not stated where (location) on your neck is this "bump." When attempting to make a diagnosis, we require much more details on your "bump," e.g., when did you notice it, other systemic symptoms, flat based, etc. Kindly see your doctor for management.
You have not stated where (location) on your neck is this "bump." When attempting to make a diagnosis, we require much more details on your "bump," e.g., when did you notice it, other systemic symptoms, flat based, etc. Kindly see your doctor for management.
Why do I feel so lethargic and lazy to work out?
The answer to your question will require pages of possibly unnecessary medical rhetoric. My advice is to see your doctor for a medical examination and blood tests at his discretion. READ MORE
The answer to your question will require pages of possibly unnecessary medical rhetoric. My advice is to see your doctor for a medical examination and blood tests at his discretion.
I hope there is not a fear for a doctor's visit.
Dr. J
I hope there is not a fear for a doctor's visit.
Dr. J
How can I lose weight with just yoga?
A simple answer to your question is no. Weight loss requires discipline with determination. It is a multi-disciplined approach. Your mind has to be fixed with that goal of loosing READ MORE
A simple answer to your question is no.
Weight loss requires discipline with determination. It is a multi-disciplined approach. Your mind has to be fixed with that goal of loosing X lbs in Y period of time. You will have to now discipline yourself with a weight loosing diet, fasting as needed, and some exercise without compromising on these. When you have lost this weight, try not to regain it and still love yourself from start to finish.
Weight loss requires discipline with determination. It is a multi-disciplined approach. Your mind has to be fixed with that goal of loosing X lbs in Y period of time. You will have to now discipline yourself with a weight loosing diet, fasting as needed, and some exercise without compromising on these. When you have lost this weight, try not to regain it and still love yourself from start to finish.
Why does my wife get cold sores?
Hi,
"Cold sores"/ "night fever"/ "herpes blisters" are viral in nature and can be recurrent. The main reason for the recurrence is due to a decreased in the immune system. READ MORE
Hi,
"Cold sores"/ "night fever"/ "herpes blisters" are viral in nature and can be recurrent. The main reason for the recurrence is due to a decreased in the immune system. This can be as a result of high stress levels, poor diet, lack of sleep, another viral illness, anything that depressed the body's immune response, not necessarily due to hyperthyroidism. If this continues, as it seems to be doing, valacyclovir, Valtrex is a good antiviral agent which will allay the symptoms..
"Cold sores"/ "night fever"/ "herpes blisters" are viral in nature and can be recurrent. The main reason for the recurrence is due to a decreased in the immune system. This can be as a result of high stress levels, poor diet, lack of sleep, another viral illness, anything that depressed the body's immune response, not necessarily due to hyperthyroidism. If this continues, as it seems to be doing, valacyclovir, Valtrex is a good antiviral agent which will allay the symptoms..
Combined Linsinopril and hctz is lowering my pulse and making me feel chest pain?
Hi, I would recommend that you discuss this with your doctor. Your Dr. would be able to say why that combination was prescribed, as it seems you have some fluid retention with READ MORE
Hi, I would recommend that you discuss this with your doctor.
Your Dr. would be able to say why that combination was prescribed, as it seems you have some fluid retention with your hypertension. …so with that combination, the pulse "volume" would fall but not the pulse rate. Lisinopril is a good ACE inhibitor which would do well with lowering your BP but the diuretic would help you to loose an extra amount of fluid via urine and hence lower your BP and sometimes pulse volume.
I hope this helps.
Your Dr. would be able to say why that combination was prescribed, as it seems you have some fluid retention with your hypertension. …so with that combination, the pulse "volume" would fall but not the pulse rate. Lisinopril is a good ACE inhibitor which would do well with lowering your BP but the diuretic would help you to loose an extra amount of fluid via urine and hence lower your BP and sometimes pulse volume.
I hope this helps.
How can I be sure I have shingles and how do I treat it?
Hi, The description fits into what seems to be Herpes Zoster (shingles). It is caused by a pox virus which gets reactivated when the person's immune system goes down. This can READ MORE
Hi,
The description fits into what seems to be Herpes Zoster (shingles). It is caused by a pox virus which gets reactivated when the person's immune system goes down. This can happen because of not resting well, overworked, dehydration, being underfed or too stressed etc. Nerve damage is done the longer the disease process is allowed to continue. Its best to see your dr. who will help to reverse the disease process with some antiviral medications and alleviate some of the pain. Pain can sometimes be extreme and prolonged and varies with individuals
The description fits into what seems to be Herpes Zoster (shingles). It is caused by a pox virus which gets reactivated when the person's immune system goes down. This can happen because of not resting well, overworked, dehydration, being underfed or too stressed etc. Nerve damage is done the longer the disease process is allowed to continue. Its best to see your dr. who will help to reverse the disease process with some antiviral medications and alleviate some of the pain. Pain can sometimes be extreme and prolonged and varies with individuals
Help with Swollen Lymph Node
Lymph nodes are good indicators of an inflammatory reactions whether it is an infection or tumors or trauma etc. You have seen the ENT specialist approximately 2 months and still READ MORE
Lymph nodes are good indicators of an inflammatory reactions whether it is an infection or tumors or trauma etc. You have seen the ENT specialist approximately 2 months and still have a swollen lymph node. You have not mentioned any imaging investigation which would be in order eg A CT scan of your head and sinus cavity. You have been on medications that will suppress you body's brain and respiratory function. You might want to consider coming off some of these medications as this is more likely why you are so tired...Try seeing your Dr again and let him assist you with what might be a chronic sinus infection.
What can you do for severe ear pain?
Hi,
You should be in the presence of your home doctor or with an ENT specialist. As with all pains, one has to determine the source of the problem and then address that problem. READ MORE
Hi,
You should be in the presence of your home doctor or with an ENT specialist. As with all pains, one has to determine the source of the problem and then address that problem. Common causes of ear pain are infections of the external middle or inner ear. Nerve related trigeminal/facial nerve pain, tooth pain, TM joint pain, a throat infection referred pain, etc., sinus pressure pain. Advice...please see your physician.
You should be in the presence of your home doctor or with an ENT specialist. As with all pains, one has to determine the source of the problem and then address that problem. Common causes of ear pain are infections of the external middle or inner ear. Nerve related trigeminal/facial nerve pain, tooth pain, TM joint pain, a throat infection referred pain, etc., sinus pressure pain. Advice...please see your physician.
What are the best ear drops for an ear infection?
Hi, An ear drop will sometimes do justice for an outer ear infection. Ear infections can be caused by several organisms and it will be to your benefit to have your home Dr. take READ MORE
Hi,
An ear drop will sometimes do justice for an outer ear infection.
Ear infections can be caused by several organisms and it will be to your benefit to have your home Dr. take a sterile swab for culture and sensitivity as the need arises assuming there is a ear discharge. It would be prudent to see your Dr. with regards to this ear infection.
An ear drop will sometimes do justice for an outer ear infection.
Ear infections can be caused by several organisms and it will be to your benefit to have your home Dr. take a sterile swab for culture and sensitivity as the need arises assuming there is a ear discharge. It would be prudent to see your Dr. with regards to this ear infection.
How long does hernia surgery last?
Herniorrhaphy procedures can be estimated depending on the location and size of the hernia. The experience of the surgeon has a great deal to do with the time factor. Is it an READ MORE
Herniorrhaphy procedures can be estimated depending on the location and size of the hernia. The experience of the surgeon has a great deal to do with the time factor. Is it an internal or an external hernia repair? A simple uncomplicated inguinal hernia repair can be between 3/4 to 1.5 hour.
Can a person get diabetes at any age?
Diabetes can happen at any age. There are three major categories of diabetes:
1. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, or Insulin Dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM)
2. Type 11 Diabetes READ MORE
Diabetes can happen at any age. There are three major categories of diabetes:
1. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, or Insulin Dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM)
2. Type 11 Diabetes mellitus, or non-Insulin dependent diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM)
3. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, which occurs during pregnancy
Basically, diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not play its role in regulating glucose (sugar) in the blood stream, e.g., autoimmune diseases, family history, pancreatic exhaustion, infection, malignancy, steroid induced, etc.
1. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, or Insulin Dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM)
2. Type 11 Diabetes mellitus, or non-Insulin dependent diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM)
3. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, which occurs during pregnancy
Basically, diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not play its role in regulating glucose (sugar) in the blood stream, e.g., autoimmune diseases, family history, pancreatic exhaustion, infection, malignancy, steroid induced, etc.
The best way to combat obesity?
Your desire to want to lose weight is the first step in the right direction. Next are lifestyle changes: walk more, eat low-calorie and high-fiber foods, e.g., greens and nuts READ MORE
Your desire to want to lose weight is the first step in the right direction. Next are lifestyle changes: walk more, eat low-calorie and high-fiber foods, e.g., greens and nuts and grains, fast once per week, etc. Exercise at least three times per week for 30 mins, do not yield to the temptation of high-calorie foods, e.g., sweets and sugary meals. Avoid eating late at night. Take a look at: Kosher diet.
Should I be worried about slight deviations in my heart rate?
A normal heart rate varies with individuals but can range between 60 to 100 beats/min. An average normal heart rate is 72 beats /min. Normally, at the time of lying down (going READ MORE
A normal heart rate varies with individuals but can range between 60 to 100 beats/min. An average normal heart rate is 72 beats /min. Normally, at the time of lying down (going from a standing or sitting position to a horizontal (lying) position there is a rush of blood to your heart which will beat fast and heavy for a few seconds to a minute and then quiets down to a normal rate afterwards. This can be normal. If there are concerns, then please see your doctor for a further evaluation.
My urine is cloudy. Is it a sign of an infection?
Your urine can be dark and cloudy simply because of not drinking enough water. Urinary tract infections can present initially like this, but sometimes, along with additional symptoms, READ MORE
Your urine can be dark and cloudy simply because of not drinking enough water. Urinary tract infections can present initially like this, but sometimes, along with additional symptoms, e.g., burning, frequency, lower abdominal discomfort, diabetes concerns can be addressed by a simple blood test.
Is rhinitis the same thing as a cold?
Rhinitis is irritation and inflammation of the mucous membrane inside the nose. Common symptoms are a stuffy nose, sneezing, runny nose, and post-nasal drip. Cold, on the other READ MORE
Rhinitis is irritation and inflammation of the mucous membrane inside the nose. Common symptoms are a stuffy nose, sneezing, runny nose, and post-nasal drip. Cold, on the other hand, is mainly a viral URTI infection. Rhinitis can be caused by bacterial viral and most commonly by allergens. A simple way of clearing your congestion is blowing your nostril while having your shower while in a moist atmosphere. It does help.
Can cetrizine help in reducing fever?
Ceterizine (cetirizine) is not a medication that helps fever, but helps allergies. It does not cause fever either. The situation you described might have been an infection which READ MORE
Ceterizine (cetirizine) is not a medication that helps fever, but helps allergies. It does not cause fever either. The situation you described might have been an infection which went untreated and progressed to you having a fever (which the ceterizine did not help). I hope you did see your Dr. for this cold you have had.
Is a colonoscopy painful?
Colonoscopic examination in the hands of an experienced colonoscopic examiner is painless. A light sedation might be necessary if you are apprehensive about the procedure. Your READ MORE
Colonoscopic examination in the hands of an experienced colonoscopic examiner is painless. A light sedation might be necessary if you are apprehensive about the procedure. Your age of 31 is quite young unless you have a family history of … or high clinical suspicion of a colonic disorder.
