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Dr. Philip J. Howard, MD

Family Practitioner

Dr. Philip J Howard MD is a top Family Practitioner in Monroeville, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Philip J Howard MD is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Philip J Howard MD is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Philip J Howard MD is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Monroeville, PA, Dr. Philip J Howard MD is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
Dr. Philip J. Howard, MD
  • Monroeville, PA
  • Accepting new patients

Why do I have a fever after my flu shot?

Sorry for the late response. It could be a coincidence, esp. if it has remitted by now.

My second child is 14 months old and hasn't taken her first steps. Is something wrong?

Every child is different. Some children can take up to 17 months.


...Sorry for the late response.

My symptoms started two months ago with dizziness that progressed?

Two months ago? How often? Every day? This could be a chronic labyrinthitis, likely benign.

Eggs and flu shots

The vaccine has protein extract from eggs.

What could be reason for shooting lower abdominal pain?

The causes of lower abdominal pain is extensive. However, what immediately comes to my mind is constipation. Pain secondary to constipation can affect any part of your abdomen. READ MORE
The causes of lower abdominal pain is extensive. However, what immediately comes to my mind is constipation. Pain secondary to constipation can affect any part of your abdomen. Consider this...

Is there a connection between breast reduction, asthma and back pain?

The connection is weight reduction attributable to the breast, especially women with very large breasts. Studies show that weight reduction can reduce asthma severity and reduce READ MORE
The connection is weight reduction attributable to the breast, especially women with very large breasts. Studies show that weight reduction can reduce asthma severity and reduce some forms of back pain.

My daughter is very thin can you please suggest some weight gaining techniques.

What is her BMI? If her BMI is within normal limits for her age and sex, I wouldn't worry. If abnormal, I would recommend having a conversation with your daughter, her provider, READ MORE
What is her BMI? If her BMI is within normal limits for her age and sex, I wouldn't worry. If abnormal, I would recommend having a conversation with your daughter, her provider, and possible a nutritionist about a game plan to her gain weight.

Why do I keep having an upset stomach?

Is it related to food consumption or is it sporadic? It could possibly be an ulcer. Could be a stomach virus. If it doesn't remit soon, I would see a provider.

Why does my head hurt when I blow my nose?

When you blow your nose, the force air expulsion is generated from your upper airways and lower airways. The upper airways includes your nose, ears, and sinuses. Your sinuses are READ MORE
When you blow your nose, the force air expulsion is generated from your upper airways and lower airways. The upper airways includes your nose, ears, and sinuses. Your sinuses are located all across your face. If you blow your nose very hard, that pressure may be felt in your head (from the sinuses). Not only air pressure, but also when you blow your nose, the sudden rush of blood pressure to your face can be felt.

...Sorry for the late response.

Is asthma hereditary?

Some forms of asthma are hereditary, some are acquired (non-hereditary). If you can identify multiple family members with asthma, can postulate hereditary factors. However, in READ MORE
Some forms of asthma are hereditary, some are acquired (non-hereditary). If you can identify multiple family members with asthma, can postulate hereditary factors. However, in many cases of asthma, there is a genetic component (hereditary) of predisposition and an environmental (acquired) component.

Does a fever always signal an infection?

Fever, esp. low fever does not always mean an infection. It could be inflammation from a unknown source in your body or it could be a metabolic issue. If it persists, see a provider. READ MORE
Fever, esp. low fever does not always mean an infection. It could be inflammation from a unknown source in your body or it could be a metabolic issue. If it persists, see a provider.

Shortness of breath

This is worrisome. I would see your provider asap.

Sudden loss of appetite - is it normal?

A sudden loss of appetite alone for a few days is nothing to worry about. However, if you have other signs and symptoms in addition to this (such as weight loss or gain) or loss READ MORE
A sudden loss of appetite alone for a few days is nothing to worry about. However, if you have other signs and symptoms in addition to this (such as weight loss or gain) or loss of appetite is > 1 week, I would see a provider.

What could be the reason behind lightheadedness, dizziness and stomach upset together?

First thought, dehydration. Second thought, food poisoning. Consider this...

Is it true that proteins build muscles during a workout?

If you're gaining muscle, proteins are building blocks for that growth. Your gym instructor is right in that protein supplements would aid in muscle growth. However, if you eat READ MORE
If you're gaining muscle, proteins are building blocks for that growth. Your gym instructor is right in that protein supplements would aid in muscle growth. However, if you eat a well balanced diet every day supplements are not usually necessary. Unless you are a high performing athlete.

Could my constipation be due to vitamin D supplements?

That's quite possible. Vitamin D promotes increased calcium absorption. Increased calcium causes your bowels to contract more frequently and more strongly--> constipation.

I am suffering from extreme fatigue and tiredness. Can I consume health supplements?

The causes for fatigue and tiredness are very wide. I would consider seeing a provider asap. Possibly anemic?

What causes high BP?

Your mother in law has diabetes, so I assume is on an oral medication or insulin. In either case, her prescription should be followed closely by her provider, while monitoring READ MORE
Your mother in law has diabetes, so I assume is on an oral medication or insulin. In either case, her prescription should be followed closely by her provider, while monitoring home glucose levels on a routine basis. Hypo or hyperglycemia could manifest has BP changes (high or low) and/or psychiatric manifestation (i.e., moods).

What could be the possible cause for the swelling in my face?

Could be an allergy. Can you link the swelling to any exposure during your daily activities?

I am lactose intolerant. Is this treatable?

There are different forms of lactose intolerance. There is a juvenile form and an adult form. There isn't any reason why you could not acquire the adult forms as well. Unfortunately READ MORE
There are different forms of lactose intolerance. There is a juvenile form and an adult form. There isn't any reason why you could not acquire the adult forms as well. Unfortunately if acquire the adult form, it's permanent. The recommended strategy could be to avoid foods with lactose in it (aka lactose-free) or consider taking lactase pills. Lactase is an enzyme that breaks down the lactose in your food for you. Hope this helps.