EXPERT
Maria Erlita Varela Dungo
Nurse Practitioner
Maria Erlita Varela Dungo is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner working in Houston,TX. She specializes on lifestyle modification, nutrition, and medication management to reduce obesity in patients and reduce risk of complications and comorbidities of obesity.
She attended Far Eastern University - Dr. Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation for my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and graduated in 2013. She began her first nursing job at a Skilled Nursing Facility and have worked in Level I and Level II Trauma Centers in New Jersey. She was a Medical Surgical/Telemetry and Intensive Care Unit Nurse for five years. She then went on to Travel Nursing. She took her first assignment in Upstate NY as a Medical-Surgical Unit/TelemetryNurse. Her next assignment was in South Jersey as a Float Pool Nurse. She graduated from the Master Of Science in Nursing, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (MSN, AG-PCPNP) program at Saint Peter's University in December, 2022.
She is a Double Board Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care-Nurse Practitioner through the AANPCB and ANCC. She is a licensed APRN in the state of Texas.
She attended Far Eastern University - Dr. Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation for my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and graduated in 2013. She began her first nursing job at a Skilled Nursing Facility and have worked in Level I and Level II Trauma Centers in New Jersey. She was a Medical Surgical/Telemetry and Intensive Care Unit Nurse for five years. She then went on to Travel Nursing. She took her first assignment in Upstate NY as a Medical-Surgical Unit/TelemetryNurse. Her next assignment was in South Jersey as a Float Pool Nurse. She graduated from the Master Of Science in Nursing, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (MSN, AG-PCPNP) program at Saint Peter's University in December, 2022.
She is a Double Board Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care-Nurse Practitioner through the AANPCB and ANCC. She is a licensed APRN in the state of Texas.
Maria Erlita Varela Dungo
- Houston, TX
- Accepting new patients
Navigating the Keto Diet: Insights from a Medical Professional
In recent years, the ketogenic diet, or keto diet, has gained popularity for its potential to promote weight loss and improve metabolic health. As a medical professional, it is...
Phentermine and Semaglutide for Weight Loss
Exploring the Combination of Phentermine and Semaglutide for Weight LossIn the ongoing quest for effective weight loss solutions, researchers and healthcare professionals are constantly...
How long is recovery for a spine hernia?
The recovery time for a spinal hernia, also known as a herniated disc or slipped disc, varies widely depending on the severity of the condition, the specific treatment approach, READ MORE
The recovery time for a spinal hernia, also known as a herniated disc or slipped disc, varies widely depending on the severity of the condition, the specific treatment approach, and individual factors.
For mild cases managed conservatively with rest, physical therapy, and medications, individuals may experience improvement within a few weeks to a few months. On the other hand, more severe cases requiring surgical intervention might involve a more extended recovery period.
It's crucial to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals and adhere to prescribed rehabilitation exercises. Each person's recovery journey is unique, and the timeline can be influenced by factors such as overall health, adherence to treatment plans, and the specific details of the herniated disc. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized information regarding recovery from a spinal hernia. I hope this helps!
For mild cases managed conservatively with rest, physical therapy, and medications, individuals may experience improvement within a few weeks to a few months. On the other hand, more severe cases requiring surgical intervention might involve a more extended recovery period.
It's crucial to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals and adhere to prescribed rehabilitation exercises. Each person's recovery journey is unique, and the timeline can be influenced by factors such as overall health, adherence to treatment plans, and the specific details of the herniated disc. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized information regarding recovery from a spinal hernia. I hope this helps!
How do I bring up problems with sex with my therapist?
Peyronie's disease is a condition characterized by the development of fibrous scar tissue within the penis, causing curvature during erections and potential pain. It can impact READ MORE
Peyronie's disease is a condition characterized by the development of fibrous scar tissue within the penis, causing curvature during erections and potential pain. It can impact sexual function and quality of life. If someone suspects they have Peyronie's disease, they should consult with a urologist, a specialist in male reproductive health. Urologists are well-equipped to diagnose and manage this condition, providing appropriate treatment options and guidance tailored to individual needs. I hope this helps.
What drinks to avoid when flying?
When flying, it's advisable to avoid certain drinks that can contribute to dehydration, discomfort, or exacerbate jet lag. Here are some drinks to be cautious about: 1. Alcohol: READ MORE
When flying, it's advisable to avoid certain drinks that can contribute to dehydration, discomfort, or exacerbate jet lag. Here are some drinks to be cautious about:
1. Alcohol: While it's common for passengers to enjoy a drink during a flight, alcohol can contribute to dehydration, especially at higher altitudes where the air is drier. It's essential to consume alcohol in moderation and balance it with water intake.
2. Caffeinated Beverages: Drinks like coffee, tea, and caffeinated sodas can have a diuretic effect, leading to increased urine production and potential dehydration. If you choose to consume caffeinated beverages, it's essential to balance them with water to stay hydrated.
3. Sugary Beverages: Sugary drinks, such as sodas and certain fruit juices, can contribute to dehydration and may be less satisfying in terms of quenching thirst. Opting for water or diluted fruit juices is a better choice.
4. **Carbonated Drinks:** Carbonated beverages can lead to bloating and discomfort due to the changes in air pressure during the flight. Additionally, the carbonation may cause you to swallow more air, potentially contributing to feelings of bloating and gas.
5. Energy Drinks: High-caffeine and high-sugar energy drinks can lead to increased heart rate and dehydration. The combination of caffeine and air travel can amplify the effects, potentially making it harder to adjust to changes in time zones.
6. Large Amounts of Dairy: Consuming large quantities of dairy, such as whole milk
1. Alcohol: While it's common for passengers to enjoy a drink during a flight, alcohol can contribute to dehydration, especially at higher altitudes where the air is drier. It's essential to consume alcohol in moderation and balance it with water intake.
2. Caffeinated Beverages: Drinks like coffee, tea, and caffeinated sodas can have a diuretic effect, leading to increased urine production and potential dehydration. If you choose to consume caffeinated beverages, it's essential to balance them with water to stay hydrated.
3. Sugary Beverages: Sugary drinks, such as sodas and certain fruit juices, can contribute to dehydration and may be less satisfying in terms of quenching thirst. Opting for water or diluted fruit juices is a better choice.
4. **Carbonated Drinks:** Carbonated beverages can lead to bloating and discomfort due to the changes in air pressure during the flight. Additionally, the carbonation may cause you to swallow more air, potentially contributing to feelings of bloating and gas.
5. Energy Drinks: High-caffeine and high-sugar energy drinks can lead to increased heart rate and dehydration. The combination of caffeine and air travel can amplify the effects, potentially making it harder to adjust to changes in time zones.
6. Large Amounts of Dairy: Consuming large quantities of dairy, such as whole milk
Can pneumonia be fixed with medications?
Pneumonia, an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, can often be effectively treated with medications. The type of medication prescribed depends on the cause READ MORE
Pneumonia, an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, can often be effectively treated with medications. The type of medication prescribed depends on the cause of pneumonia—whether it is bacterial, viral, or, less commonly, fungal.
1. Bacterial Pneumonia: If the pneumonia is bacterial, antibiotics are typically prescribed. Antibiotics target and kill bacteria, helping the body recover from the infection. It's crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed by the healthcare provider, even if symptoms start to improve before the medication is finished.
2. Viral Pneumonia: If the pneumonia is viral, antiviral medications may be used. However, most viral pneumonia cases are caused by influenza (the flu) or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), for which specific antiviral medications are available.
3. Supportive Medications: In addition to antibiotics or antivirals, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to manage symptoms and provide supportive care. These may include medications to reduce fever (antipyretics), relieve pain, and ease coughing.
It's essential to seek prompt medical attention if pneumonia is suspected, as early diagnosis and appropriate treatment significantly improve outcomes. Medications play a crucial role in treating pneumonia, but other aspects of care, such as rest, hydration, and sometimes hospitalization, may be necessary depending on the severity of the infection.
While medications can effectively treat pneumonia, it's crucial to follow the healthcare provider's recommendations, complete the prescribed course of antibiotics or antivirals, and attend follow-up appointments as advised. If you suspect you have pneumonia or are experiencing symptoms like persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.
1. Bacterial Pneumonia: If the pneumonia is bacterial, antibiotics are typically prescribed. Antibiotics target and kill bacteria, helping the body recover from the infection. It's crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed by the healthcare provider, even if symptoms start to improve before the medication is finished.
2. Viral Pneumonia: If the pneumonia is viral, antiviral medications may be used. However, most viral pneumonia cases are caused by influenza (the flu) or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), for which specific antiviral medications are available.
3. Supportive Medications: In addition to antibiotics or antivirals, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to manage symptoms and provide supportive care. These may include medications to reduce fever (antipyretics), relieve pain, and ease coughing.
It's essential to seek prompt medical attention if pneumonia is suspected, as early diagnosis and appropriate treatment significantly improve outcomes. Medications play a crucial role in treating pneumonia, but other aspects of care, such as rest, hydration, and sometimes hospitalization, may be necessary depending on the severity of the infection.
While medications can effectively treat pneumonia, it's crucial to follow the healthcare provider's recommendations, complete the prescribed course of antibiotics or antivirals, and attend follow-up appointments as advised. If you suspect you have pneumonia or are experiencing symptoms like persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.
