To better understand the concept of incontinence, it is first pertinent to understand the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is made of muscles, ligaments, tendons and connective tissue that extend from one end of the pelvis to the other. They help support the bladder, rectum, and uterus and can play a part in bowel and bladder control, sexual function, as well as posture. Incontinence can occur when these muscles are weakened or injured and is the most common cause in adults. There are two main types of incontinence, stress and urge.
Stress Incontinence
Most common cause of incontinence among females
Symptoms generally include urinary leakage when coughing, sneezing, or anything that increases the pressure on the bladder. Often, this can be from pregnancy or previous surgery leaving a weakened pelvic floor.
The treatment includes strengthening this group of muscles and tissue. This is where a group of exercises, known as Kegels, can help. These exercises focus on contracting and relaxing those deep core muscles to help better control the bladder. For better results, do these often throughout the day.
-If the Kegel exercises do not help, the next step is typically pelvic floor physical therapy. This is a program available at Ridgeview, Twin Cities Orthopedics, or OSR where the patient works with a skilled physical therapist to target these muscles and improve outcomes. To learn more about this, please ask your primary care provider.
Urge Incontinence
As the bladder fills, it stretches to make room for more urine. When the bladder is about half full you feel the need to use the restroom. A healthy bladder can hold up to 600mls of urine so most people can hold on after this initial feeling until it’s convenient. However, people who experience urge incontinence get a strong feeling to urinate even when the bladder isn’t full and cannot hold it.
These symptoms can be common in a condition called overactive bladder. Causes of overactive bladder can be urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder stones, enlarged prostates, constipation, damage to the nerves in conditions like Multiple Sclerosis (MS), strokes or from spinal cord trauma.
Some aggravating factors include caffeine, sodas or teas that can irritate the bladder wall. The first step in treating this condition includes reducing the aggravating factors, if possible, such as limiting or eliminating the caffeine intake or avoiding certain carbonated beverages.
Pelvic floor physical therapy can have benefits with this type of incontinence as well and is a good option for those trying to avoid medications. Timed toileting is another way to reduce urinary leakage. It works best if you set an alarm or timer in intervals (i.e. every 2 hours) to use the bathroom to avoid over distending the bladder.
– There are medications that can help with some of these symptoms, although this depends on the underlying cause. Common medications include Oxybutynin, Mirabegron (Myrbetriq) or Vibegron (Gemtesa). There are also more specialized options available by the urologist such as Botox injections. Please talk with your primary provider for more information.
Incontinence issues can be addressed by a variety of Lakeview Clinic medical providers including Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and OB/GYN providers. If you struggle with this common issue, be sure to inform your primary care provider. They are here to help!
Dr. Walter is an Internal Medicine physician who has special interests in chronic disease management such as diabetes, heart failure, and hypertension. She also provides point of care ultrasound services.
When Does Medical Insurance (Rather than Vision Insurance) Cover Eye Exams
The health of your eyes is closely linked to the health of the rest of your body. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, and even brain tumors can manifest in the eyes before symptoms appear elsewhere.
Many people are surprised to learn that medical insurance (not just vision insurance) can cover eye exams when they are related to medical issues. Coverage details may vary depending on the specific plan, so it’s important to check with your insurer for information about co-pays, referrals, or specialist visits.
Conditions That Typically Qualify for Medical Coverage:
Diabetes: Annual dilated eye exams are recommended and usually covered due to the risk of diabetic retinopathy.
High Blood Pressure: If signs of hypertensive damage are suspected, a medical eye exam may be covered.
Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
Some autoimmune diseases and treatments like hydroxychloroquine can put patients at increased risk of eye conditions such as dry eye, scleritis, uveitis and maculopathy. In such cases, eye exams may be considered medically necessary and thus covered under medical insurance rather than vision insurance. Eye exams coverage often depends on the specific insurance plan and the medical necessity of the exam.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): The diagnosis and treatment of amblyopia, especially in children, is often covered as it is considered a medically necessary condition. Coverage may include eye exams, vision therapy, and corrective lenses, though specific benefits vary by provider and plan.
Iritis: The diagnosis and treatment of iritis, including doctor visits, prescription eye drops (like corticosteroids), and any necessary follow-up care are often covered as medically necessary.
Glaucoma: Once diagnosed or suspected, regular monitoring is considered medically necessary.
Macular Degeneration: Medical visits for monitoring and treatment are covered.
Eye Injuries or Infections: These are acute issues that require medical attention and are typically billed to health insurance. Whether caused by accidents, trauma, or underlying health conditions, eye injuries can lead to serious complications such as vision loss, infection, or long-term disability if left untreated.
Sudden Vision Changes, Eye Pain or Vision Loss: If you experience a sudden change or loss in your vision, such as blurred vision, flashes of light, floaters, or partial or complete vision loss, it’s important to see an eye doctor right away. These symptoms can signal serious conditions like retinal detachment, glaucoma, or even stroke, which require immediate attention to prevent permanent damage. Most medical insurance plans cover exams for these issues and treatment since the visit isn’t considered routine vision care.
Verifying Coverage with Your Medical Insurer
If your eye exam is prompted by a health concern or an existing medical condition, your visit may be billed to your medical insurance rather than your vision plan. If you have an unmet deductible, the cost of the exam will apply to your deductible, and you’ll receive a bill for the amount contracted with your insurance company. Your insurer should be able to tell you if you’ve met your deductible and/or what amount is still needed to meet that deductible.
Lakeview Clinic recommends always verifying your benefits with your insurance company. A Vision Benefit Verification Checklist is available on our website to assist you with obtaining the appropriate information from your insurance company. Coverage details vary depending on the specific plan, so it’s important to check with your insurance company for information about coverage, co-pays, referrals, or specialist visits.
The Value of an Experienced Eye Doctor
Choosing an eye doctor who prioritizes comprehensive health screening, not just vision correction, is crucial. Optometrists and ophthalmologists who are well-versed in systemic health conditions can detect early warning signs and coordinate with your primary care physician or specialists. Lakeview Clinic Optometrists can easily view information in your medical chart and communicate with your primary care physician when needed. This is an added benefit of our comprehensive care approach! In addition, your primary care doctor can easily see your eye exam chart and concerns raised by your Lakeview Optometrist.
So, while you may pay more for an eye exam at a medical clinic, consider a high-quality eye exam as an investment in not only your vision, but your overall health as well. Our team is experienced and works hard to ensure patients receive premium care at every visit.
When it comes to men’s health, too many issues go undiagnosed or undertreated; not because they’re uncommon, but because they’re uncomfortable to talk about. Topics like erectile dysfunction (ED), hair loss, low testosterone, obesity, and other personal health concerns can be difficult to bring up, but they are far more common than most men realize. More importantly, these symptoms may signal deeper health issues that shouldn’t be ignored.
Lakeview Clinic primary care providers (PCPs) are here to listen, understand, and help you take a proactive, comprehensive approach to your health with discretion, compassion, and the highest standard of evidence-based care.
These Issues Are Common and Worth Talking About
Erectile dysfunction, fatigue, weight gain, mood changes, thinning hair; these are all topics that men frequently bring to specialists, online clinics, or avoid entirely. But many of these symptoms can be linked to larger medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or depression. For example, ED isn’t just a quality-of-life issue; it’s often one of the earliest warning signs of heart disease.
That’s why it’s so important to talk openly with your PCP. We don’t just treat symptoms, we look for the root cause; taking your entire health history into account. You should never feel embarrassed to discuss these topics. We’ve heard it all, and our priority is always your health, not judgment.
Why See Your Primary Care Provider First?
In today’s world, it’s easy to turn to direct-to-consumer options or specialists who focus on a narrow piece of the puzzle. While these services can sometimes be helpful, they often lead to fragmented care, which can overlook important interactions between medications, chronic conditions, or family history.
Your primary care provider knows you. We know your medical history, current medications, and overall health profile.
This allows us to:
Identify potential underlying conditions contributing to symptoms
Ensure treatments (like testosterone replacement therapy or hair loss medications) are safe and appropriate
Monitor for side effects or interactions with other treatments
Coordinate care across specialties when needed
Keep your long-term health goals in focus
At Lakeview Clinic, our approach to men’s health is comprehensive, connected, and evidence based. We don’t treat symptoms in isolation; we treat people as a whole.
Prioritizing Your Health, Without the Stigma
We understand that men often feel pressure to “tough it out” or keep personal health struggles to themselves. But ignoring symptoms won’t make them go away, and it can cost you in quality of life and long-term health.
By engaging with your primary care provider early, you’re not only addressing your immediate concerns, you’re investing in your future well-being. From preventive screenings to managing chronic disease, including everything from mental health to sexual health, we’re here to help you live your healthiest life.
Lakeview Clinic Is Here for You
At Lakeview Clinic, we believe every patient deserves trusted, respectful, and high-quality care. We’re proud to be your first stop for men’s health issues, no matter how personal they may seem. Our team is ready to work with you to develop a plan that fits your needs, supports your goals, and keeps your health on track.
Don’t wait for a problem to become an emergency. Schedule a visit with your Lakeview Clinic provider today and take the first step toward better health with a partner you can trust every step of the way.
Let us help you live the healthiest life possible!
Lakeview Primary Care Providers
Use the links below to learn about Lakeview Family Medicine and Internal Medicine Primary Care providers. You can view profiles of each provider and learn about their entire care team. The clinic locations of where each practices is also listed.
Lakeview Employee, Chelsey’s Incredible Journey of Strength and Survival
Chelsey Meuleners, a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) at Lakeview Clinic who works alongside Dr. Carlson, is not only a valued member of the clinic team but also a remarkable example of resilience and courage in the face of breast cancer.
Chelsey grew up in Cologne, attended school in Waconia, and now lives just outside of Cologne with her husband Tim and their three children: Aiden (9), Raelynn (7), and Blair (3). It was shortly after the birth of her youngest daughter that Chelsey’s life took an unexpected turn.
At just 32 years old, while breastfeeding, Chelsey noticed what she believed was a blocked milk duct or the onset of mastitis. “I didn’t think it was anything more,” she recalls. “Who would think it was something more?” After two rounds of antibiotics, her symptoms worsened; her skin began to take on the appearance of an orange peel, prompting further medical evaluation. An ultrasound, mammogram, and biopsy revealed the devastating news; Chelsey had stage three breast cancer and tested BRCA positive.
Cancer had already touched Chelsey’s family. Two aunts, a grandmother, and two uncles had previously been diagnosed with breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. Still, nothing could prepare her for the fear and uncertainty that followed her diagnosis.
“My biggest fear was what do I do now? How am I going to care for my kids? Who’s going to be there if things don’t work out?” Chelsey said.
Her treatment journey was long and grueling: 16 rounds of chemotherapy, a month of radiation, a double mastectomy, full hysterectomy, and reconstruction surgery. Most recently, a new spot on her hip led to a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer, followed by another round of radiation.
Despite it all, Chelsey found strength in her community. “When you first get diagnosed, you think you are alone in this. I didn’t want to burden anyone with my diagnosis,” she shared. “But they always say you have a village, and boy did that happen. There was so much love and support from family, friends, neighbors, and my amazing coworkers. There’s no way my husband and I would have made it through without them.” She added that the level of care at Lakeview was amazing. “Dr. Chinnock, Dr. McPadden, and Dr. Stapleton were my doctors at Lakeview and both they and their nurses were supportive and helpful throughout this journey.” She also recognized that the care between Lakeview, Ridgeview, and MN Oncology was a great support system during her journey.
Today, Chelsey is happy to say she is in full remission, and she’s hopeful that it stays that way for a long time. Her advice to others is “don’t wait if you feel something is off, get it checked out right away!”
Her story is not only one of medical perseverance but of the unwavering strength of community support. Chelsey continues to serve patients at Lakeview Clinic with compassion, empathy, and the unique perspective of someone who knows firsthand the impact of quality care and heartfelt support.
You can learn more about Prevention and Early Detection of breast cancer in General Surgeon, Dawn Stapleton’s article; available HERE.
Lakeview Clinic offers state-of-the-art 3-D Digital Mammography. Mammography is one tool used for breast cancer screening. Lakeview Clinic also recommends monthly self-breast exams and regular visits to your doctor as additional tools for the early detection of breast cancer. Mammogram appointments can be scheduled online or by calling (952)442-4461.
You are often asked at a doctor’s office, “who is your primary care physician?” I hope that you can always answer this question. A primary care physician helps you navigate all of your healthcare needs ranging from a sprained ankle to the management of hypertension or diabetes. For children, this may be a pediatrician or family medicine provider. For adults it may be a family medicine or internal medicine provider.
A PCP is able to see you as a total person and not just one organ system. Their board certification requires a broad knowledge in all specialty areas. This becomes very important when you start juggling several medications or specialists that are involved in your care. Your PCP will manage your chronic conditions using evidence-based care to maximize your health. From newborns to the elderly, everyone should see a PCP.
Overall Wellness
Primary care focuses on your overall wellness. Our goal is to help educate and encourage a healthy lifestyle that includes a focus on exercise and nutrition. Weight can oftentimes be a frustration, and your PCP can assist with weight management. At your annual wellness visit not only will your PCP discuss healthy lifestyle behaviors but will also encourage general health screenings depending on your age including the importance of immunizations, cancer screenings and cardiovascular screenings. Your primary care physician can also help navigate the perimenopausal and menopausal years and may discuss hormone therapy as well as other modalities to help ease the symptoms.
Your Body as a Whole
Your primary care physician understands how each body system can affect the other. For instance, you may present with a cough that is not going away. Your PCP will try to decide if that cough is due to an infectious process, sinus or allergy issues, asthma, heartburn, medication side effects or something more worrisome, like breast or colon cancer. Another example may be presenting with fatigue. Again, your PCP will try to decide if there is evidence of a medical problem, such as a thyroid issue, diabetes, anemia, cardiovascular source or if there could be underlying depression, anxiety or stress that is causing fatigue. If the answer is unclear, a referral may be placed to assist with the diagnosis.
What PCPs Treat
I also hear “I didn’t know you can do that?” Your PCP can perform many procedures, such as full skin checks and biopsies, wart treatment, joint injections, orthopedic injury management, vasectomies and many in-office gynecologic procedures, such as IUDs. Many of our providers are trained in these areas, so if your PCP does not perform a certain procedure, they can refer you to someone in the clinic that does. We would like to serve all of your health care needs.
Your Partner in Healthcare
The most important aspect of a primary care physician is that that person gets to know you and how you want to address your body and your health. The PCP should be your partner in healthcare to advise and instruct as well as to listen and reflect on your health needs.
I hope you have an answer to the question of “who is your PCP?” If not, I challenged you to form a relationship with the primary care provider. Schedule your annual wellness visit for you and your family today.
Dr. Beulke joined Lakeview Clinic in April 2003. She provides the full spectrum of Family Medicine, including pediatric care, adolescent and adult medicine, geriatric care, and gynecology. Throughout her practice, she emphasizes a patient-centered approach, shared decision making, and establishing a partnership with each of her patients regarding their care.
