Description
About Dr. Nwamadu
Dr. Chike Uchenna Nwamadu is a Family Doctor. Practicing at Sage Dermatology in Kitchener, ON, he is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. His focus is providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and stages of life. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. He serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Dr. Chike Uchenna Nwamadu completed his Medical Degree. He brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. He has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. He is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.
Key aspects of his practice philosophy include advocating for patients' needs within the healthcare system and coordinating care effectively with specialists and community services; a commitment to evidence-based medicine, integrating the latest research with clinical expertise to provide the highest standard of care. He is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Ibo.
Common Health Concerns Addressed by Dr. Chike Uchenna Nwamadu
Dr. Chike Uchenna Nwamadu provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:
Dermatological Skin Conditions
- Psoriasis (Mild to Moderate Plaque Psoriasis - Initial Management): Primary care support for individuals with psoriasis, coordinating with specialist care as needed for more advanced treatment options and comprehensive management of this chronic systemic condition.
- Bacterial Skin Infections (Impetigo, Folliculitis, Cellulitis - uncomplicated): Effective antimicrobial therapy for common bacterial skin infections to resolve infection, prevent spread, and alleviate associated symptoms.
- Primary Care Skin Cancer Screening & Early Detection (Suspicious Mole/Lesion Assessment): Performing opportunistic or targeted skin examinations, especially for patients with risk factors (e.g., history of sun exposure, family history of skin cancer, multiple moles, fair skin), to screen for suspicious moles or lesions that could indicate skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma - BCC, squamous cell carcinoma - SCC, melanoma). Utilizing dermoscopy if trained to improve diagnostic accuracy. Performing skin biopsies (punch, shave, excisional) of concerning lesions or providing timely referrals to dermatology for further evaluation, biopsy, and management if skin cancer is suspected.
- Fungal Skin, Nail & Hair Infections (Tinea species, Candidiasis, Onychomycosis): Providing effective remedies for bothersome and often contagious fungal infections of the skin, hair shafts, and nails, along with advice on hygiene and prevention of recurrence.
Preventative Health Topics
- Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Diet, Exercise, Sleep, Stress Reduction): Guidance on making sustainable lifestyle modifications for improved energy levels, healthy weight management, better mood regulation, reduced risk of chronic illness (heart disease, diabetes, cancer), and enhanced longevity and quality of life.
- Occupational Health Screening & Advice (Basic Pre-placement, Return-to-Work): Guidance on maintaining health in the context of specific work environments and job demands, and initial evaluation for common work-related health issues.
- Travel Medicine Advice & Routine/Travel Vaccinations: Offering essential travel health services and tailored advice to protect your health while abroad, based on current international health regulations, CDC/WHO recommendations, and your specific travel plans.
Common Chronic Conditions
- Thyroid Disorders (Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's, Nodules): Adjusting thyroid medication based on symptoms and regular blood tests (TSH, free T4, thyroid antibodies) to maintain optimal thyroid function and well-being.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) - Early to Moderate Stages: Early detection, monitoring of kidney function (e.g., eGFR, urine ACR), management of risk factors that can worsen CKD (especially diabetes and hypertension), medication review to avoid nephrotoxic drugs, lifestyle counseling (dietary advice on protein, sodium, potassium), and timely referrals to nephrology for patients with early to moderate stage chronic kidney disease to slow progression and prevent complications.
- Asthma (All Ages) & Allergic Rhinitis: Working collaboratively with you (or your child) to achieve optimal asthma control, minimize symptoms (wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath), improve lung function, and reduce reliance on reliever medications.
Joint Muscle Pain
- Mechanical Low Back & Neck Pain (Acute, Subacute, Chronic - Uncomplicated): Assessment and management of non-specific (mechanical) low back pain and neck pain, which accounts for the majority of spinal pain presentations. This includes taking a thorough history, performing a focused physical examination to rule out 'red flag' conditions (e.g., fracture, infection, malignancy, cauda equina syndrome), providing reassurance about the generally favorable prognosis of acute pain, and advising on pain relief (acetaminophen, NSAIDs, short-term muscle relaxants if severe spasm), maintaining activity as tolerated (avoiding prolonged bed rest), heat/cold application, and self-care strategies. For subacute or chronic pain, emphasis on active therapies (exercise, physiotherapy referral), addressing psychosocial factors (yellow flags), and promoting functional restoration.
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Recognizing the characteristic clinical presentation of Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) in older adults (typically age >50 years) – symmetrical morning stiffness and aching in the shoulders, neck, and pelvic girdle – often associated with significantly elevated inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP). Initiating treatment with low-dose corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone 12.5-25 mg daily) which usually results in a rapid and dramatic improvement in symptoms, thus supporting the diagnosis. Vigilantly screening for and differentiating from Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA/Temporal Arteritis), which can co-exist with PMR (or occur independently) and requires urgent higher-dose steroid therapy and specialist (rheumatology/ophthalmology) referral to prevent irreversible vision loss.
- Fibromyalgia & Other Widespread Chronic Pain Syndromes - Primary Care Diagnosis & Multimodal Management: Working collaboratively with individuals experiencing chronic widespread pain to develop personalized self-management strategies, set realistic functional goals, and coordinate care effectively with other healthcare providers such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and rheumatologists (for diagnostic confirmation or complex cases).
- Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: Initial assessment, diagnosis, and conservative management of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction related to repetitive tasks, sustained awkward postures, or ergonomic factors at work or during hobbies. This includes common conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome (mild-moderate), de Quervain's tenosynovitis, epicondylitis (tennis/golfer's elbow), trigger finger/thumb, rotator cuff tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, Achilles tendinopathy, and non-specific arm/neck/shoulder pain attributable to overuse.
Adult Common Health Issues
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Symptom Management & Monitoring: Assessing and managing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in aging men commonly due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Symptoms include urinary frequency, urgency, nocturia (waking at night to urinate), weak or intermittent stream, hesitancy, straining, and incomplete bladder emptying. Assessment involves history, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire, digital rectal exam (DRE) to assess prostate size/consistency, urinalysis to rule out UTI, and serum PSA discussion (for prostate cancer screening context).
- Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Investigating causes of anemia (e.g., symptoms like fatigue, pallor, dyspnea on exertion, dizziness, palpitations, restless legs) through thorough history (diet, medications, menstrual history, GI symptoms), physical examination, and targeted blood tests (Complete Blood Count - CBC with differential and red cell indices, iron studies including ferritin, serum vitamin B12, serum folate, reticulocyte count, LDH, bilirubin if hemolysis suspected).
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) - Initial Assessment & Management: Providing initial management strategies for RLS, including lifestyle modifications (e.g., regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, avoiding caffeine/alcohol close to bedtime), checking and correcting iron deficiency (ferritin levels), and considering pharmacological options (e.g., dopamine agonists like pramipexole/ropinirole, gabapentin enacarbil) for moderate to severe, frequent symptoms that significantly impact sleep or quality of life. Referral to neurology or sleep specialist for complex or refractory cases.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis & Dry Eye Syndrome - Primary Care Management: Primary care approach to common, non-sight-threatening eye discomforts.
This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Nwamadu. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.
Dr. Chike Uchenna Nwamadu's Family Medicine Services
- Skin Lesion Assessment, Biopsy & Minor Excisions (Benign Lesions): Evaluating common benign skin growths (skin tags, seborrheic keratoses, cherry angiomas, dermatofibromas). Performing skin biopsies (punch, shave, excisional) of suspicious lesions to rule out skin cancer, or offering in-office removal of benign lesions for cosmetic reasons or if causing irritation.
- Cancer Screening Coordination (Cervical, Breast, Colorectal, Prostate, Lung - as per guidelines): Providing guidance on, ordering, and interpreting results for essential cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests, HPV testing, mammograms, fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) for colon cancer, PSA discussions for prostate cancer, low-dose CT for lung cancer in high-risk individuals) based on current evidence-based guidelines.
- Assessment & Management of Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders: Providing comprehensive assessment, empathetic counseling, lifestyle advice (exercise, mindfulness, sleep hygiene), evidence-based medication management (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs), and facilitating timely referrals for psychotherapy (CBT, DBT, etc.) or psychiatric consultation for common mental health conditions.
- Childhood & Adolescent Immunization Administration & Counseling: Providing timely and safe immunizations according to provincial and national public health guidelines, ensuring children are fully protected.
- Joint Injections for Pain Relief (e.g., Corticosteroid - if trained/equipped): Providing in-office joint injections to alleviate symptoms and improve function in selected musculoskeletal conditions.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Nwamadu. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.
All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in ON and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).
Partnering in Your Health: Achieving Your Goals with Dr. Nwamadu
At Sage Dermatology, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Nwamadu frequently works with patients towards goals such as:
- Dr. Nwamadu supports patients through needing a prescription for preventative medication before travelling to a high-risk area for malaria, aiming for outcomes like feeling fully empowered by him to ask pertinent and challenging questions, openly voice their preferences and values regarding treatment options, and participate actively and meaningfully as a respected partner in all their healthcare decisions, so they can return to activities such as nurturing and maintaining strong, supportive, and deeply fulfilling relationships with their immediate family members, close friends, and wider social network through regular, active, and meaningful engagement.
- It's rewarding for Dr. Nwamadu to see patients with their partner or they snoring loudly and possibly having sleep apnea achieve having their diverse family structure, unique cultural needs, and individual communication preferences consistently understood, acknowledged, and respectfully incorporated into all aspects of their care by him and the entire clinic team and return to important activities like simply and profoundly relaxing, completely unwinding, and thoroughly enjoying quiet, restorative moments of peace, mindfulness, and genuine contentment at home without being constantly plagued or interrupted by intrusive health worries, pain, or discomfort.
- Dr. Nwamadu frequently helps patients who are dealing with trouble with seasonal allergies that over-the-counter medications aren't adequately helping with. The primary aim is achieving feeling substantially more hopeful and less overwhelmed about managing a difficult or life-altering health condition after comprehensive consultations and collaborative care planning with him, which often allows them to confidently resume feeling profoundly secure, deeply supported, and well-understood in having a trusted, accessible, and long-term medical advisor and health partner in him for any and all health questions, new symptoms, or emerging concerns that arise throughout their lives.
- If their child complaining of stomach aches frequently, possibly related to stress or diet is a barrier, Dr. Nwamadu develops strategies aimed at their teenager demonstrating a smoother and more confident transition into managing their own health responsibilities and navigating the adult healthcare system, thanks to ongoing guidance and mentorship from him, facilitating the ability to enjoy consistently being a reliable, present, actively contributing, and supportive member of their immediate family unit, extended family network, and valued social circles, fulfilling important roles and responsibilities.
Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Nwamadu, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. He believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.
Clinic Location & Accessibility
Dr. Nwamadu practices at Sage Dermatology, located in the Laurentian Hills, Country Hills neighborhood of Kitchener. The clinic is conveniently located near Doon Heritage Village and is accessible via Grand River Transit (GRT) (Bus and ION Light Rail). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Family Medicine with Dr. Nwamadu in Kitchener
- Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON?
- Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in Ontario if that doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Resources like Health Care Connect in Ontario, your local health unit's website, or the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario may be helpful in your search. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see specialists.
- How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON who is accepting new patients?
- Finding a family doctor in Ontario who is accepting new patients may take time and effort. You can check the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario website for a "Find a Doctor" tool or similar resource. In Ontario, you can register with Health Care Connect. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local community health centres or clinics directly that focus on accepting new patients. It's a challenging process, so be patient and persistent.
- How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Nwamadu?
- For most prescription refills, contact your pharmacy at least 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can fax a refill request to Dr. Nwamadu's office. Allow 2-3 business days for processing. For certain medications (e.g., narcotics, controlled substances) or if it's been a while since your last visit, an appointment may be needed. It is always best to request refills proactively.
- How often should I see Dr. Nwamadu for a check-up or physical exam?
- Check-up frequency depends on your age, health, existing conditions, and risk factors. Generally, healthy younger adults may need check-ups less frequently (e.g., every 2-5 years), while children, older adults (annually over 65), or those with chronic conditions may need more frequent visits (e.g., annually or semi-annually). Dr. Nwamadu follows established provincial guidelines for specific screening tests. Discuss your individual needs with him to determine an appropriate schedule.
- Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by OHIP for eligible Ontario residents with a valid health card. Some services (e.g., cosmetic procedures, travel medicine consultations, sick notes, insurance forms) may not be covered and may have fees. Confirm with Sage Dermatology if you have questions about specific services.
- What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?
- A family doctor, or general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families of all ages. They are your first point of contact for most health concerns, providing preventative care, diagnosing and treating illnesses, managing chronic conditions, offering mental health support, and coordinating care with specialists. Building long-term relationships with patients is a key part of their role.
Contact & Licensing Information for Dr. Chike Uchenna Nwamadu
Sage Dermatology
3-795 Ottawa St S
Kitchener, ON, N2E 0A5
Phone: (519) 744-2592
Dr. Chike Uchenna Nwamadu is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario) in ON and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).
Registration Number: 120100
Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Nwamadu-Chike-Uchenna/0327655-120100
Family doctors like Dr. Nwamadu are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.