Concierge Primary Care

Alpha-gal syndrome is a tick bite–triggered allergy to mammalian meat that can cause delayed symptoms hours after eating. Here’s what to know about symptoms, testing, hidden triggers, prevention, and when to talk with your doctor.

So many women are told their labs are “normal” even when they feel exhausted, foggy, sleepless, inflamed, or unlike themselves. This blog explains why standard bloodwork does not always tell the whole story during perimenopause and menopause — and which labs may help uncover what is really going on.

So many women hit midlife, keep doing “all the things,” and still feel like their bodies changed the rules overnight. This blog explains why menopause weight gain is not a personal failure — and why women deserve a better plan than “eat less and try harder.”

Inspired by Zim Schwartze and the tribe that showed up to celebrate her at the Yellow Rose Luncheon Women of Achievement, this blog explores why social connection is not just meaningful — it is protective. Friendship, community, support, laughter, and belonging all play an important role in health, resilience, and longevity.

Inspired by Kitrina Tinnin’s message at the Zonta Yellow Rose Luncheon Women of Achievement, this reflection explores what it means to “tap in” — to notice the needs around us, turn care into action, and remember that women of action also need support, rest, and care themselves.

The Yellow Rose Luncheon was more than a beautiful event. It was a reminder of why community, service, women’s leadership, and stories of courage matter — not only for those in the room, but for the next generation watching and learning.

Ticks are tiny, dramatic, and unfortunately very common in Missouri. Here’s how to remove a tick safely, what symptoms to watch for, which tick-borne illnesses matter locally, and when it is time to call your doctor. No fire, no gasoline, no group-text dermatology consult required.

Spring in Mid-Missouri is beautiful… until your nose, eyes, and sinuses file a formal complaint. In this funny, practical guide to seasonal allergies, learn how to reduce pollen exposure, manage symptoms, use common allergy treatments wisely, and know when it may be time to get help.

IBS can cause bloating, cramping, constipation, diarrhea, urgency, and a whole lot of “why is my gut like this?” energy. Learn what irritable bowel syndrome is, when symptoms need medical attention, and how a personalized plan can help you feel more in control.

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound can be powerful tools for weight and metabolic health — but they work best with a thoughtful plan. Learn why nutrition, strength, labs, and ongoing medical support matter.

A sore throat is not always “just a cold.” Learn common strep throat symptoms, how strep differs from viral infections, when testing may be needed, and how treatment can help you recover and reduce spread.