Kaitlin Birkel LMSW

Recommended Articles

• Adventure, A Dream Wedding, and Cystic Fibrosis

  Caleigh Haber has spent 27 years battling cystic fibrosis.For some time now, Caleigh’s boyfriend, Bryan, has been helping her with care needs. Caleigh’s over-all health status appears fragile: Aside from late-stage CF, she’s also “in kidney failure (becoming more common for those with CF),...

• What induces GERD?

  Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that causes acid to rise from the stomach, back into the esophagus. The acidic content irritates the lining of the esophagus, resulting in heartburn and other symptoms associated with GERD. This condition is not specific for one type of...

• Celiac Diagnoses Are Soaring. What's Behind This Surge?

  It's true. Many people today have dietary restrictions. Some may have an allergy to nuts, while others might not eat meat or dairy. One diet that is very popular right now is the gluten-free diet. The number of people that are on a gluten-free diet today is only increasing. In fact, as many as 3.1...

• Understanding Why ER Nurses Are Unsung Heroes

  While it is true that nobody wants to be on the other end of an emergency, there are certainly those that go above and beyond to exceed the daily expectations that are placed upon them. Nurses are the daily heroes of the emergency room, as they offer up comfort and solace during times of need....

• Non-Alcoholic Beer for People with Crohn’s Disease

  When a person is diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, often the first thing that is prescribed is a change in diet.Any disease of the gastrointestinal tract affects a person’s ability to properly digest food, and Crohn’s disease especially can prevent a person from getting the necessary nutrients...

• Swollen Ankles, Feet, and Legs: Causes, Signs, Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment

  The swelling of the feet, legs, and ankles is also known as peripheral edema. This refers to a condition where there is an excessive accumulation of fluid in these parts of the body. It is not a painful condition unless the underlying cause for it is an injury to that area. However, it is a very...