FR EE
APRIL 2018
MEDICAL | DENTAL | FITNESS | TIPS | EDUCATION | TRAINING
Health SOUTHWEST GEORGIA
eat B
ERIN CANNINGTON, MD Allergy & Asthma Clinics Of Georgia
JINNE’ RICHARDS, MD Medical Director
Diabetes
Colorectal Cancer Gallbladder Surgery Diabetes Quick Facts IT Band Problems
LOOK INSIDE FOR DR. OZ
ANTHONY BURKE, DO
According to a Study by CNN, drinking coffee is healthy for you.
#1 Health Magazine In Southwest Georgia
Cardiology Affinity Clinic
JAMES PALAZZOLO, MD Sleep Apnea Centers of America
KEISHA CALLINS, MD
KELLY MILLER, FNP-BC
TIFTON | ALBANY | AMERICUS | BAINBRIDGE | SYLVESTER | THOMASVILLE VALDOSTA | CORDELE | MOULTRIE AND SURROUNDING AREAS
Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center
This is the #1 Health Magazine Covering Southwest Georgia
Email Upcoming Events To swgahealthbeat@albanyherald.com
CONTENTS 3
Colorectal Cancer Awareness
4 Ask A Pharmacist 5 Diabetes Quick Facts 6
Support Groups Breast Cancer Support Group A group for women with breast cancer. The group meets on the second Thursday of each month from 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. in the Radiation Oncology
Conference Room at Phoebe. Call 229-312-7161 for more information
Caring Touch
Break Free From Cooking Ruts With Easy Inspiration for fresh, lively dishes
Support for those caring for a loved one. The group meets the fourth Wednesday of each month from 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. in the Radiation Oncology Conference Room at Phoebe. Call 229-312-7161 for more information.
Mended Hearts
A support group for heart patients, their families, and caregivers. The local chapter meets the 4th Monday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in the Phoebe Northwest Conference Center. To receive a brochure and/or more information contact Mended Hearts 1-888-432-7899 or www.mendedhearts.org/contact-us.
7 6 Tips To Reduce
Confusion in Older Patients After Surgery
8
Classes and Events
Community Heartsaver® CPR Classes Saturday, April 14, 2018 | 1:00PM-3:00PM | Phoebe Northwest To register, contact Network of Trust at 229-312-4620. Registration is due by the Thursday before each scheduled class.
Blood Drive
Dr. Oz & Roizen & Health Tip
Thursday, April 19, 2018 | 10:00AM-6:00PM | Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Medical Tower 1 Rotunda (2nd floor next to Surgicare)
Golden Key Seminar
Thursday, April 19, 2018 | 10:30AM-1:00PM | Phoebe Northwest Call 229-312-2418 for reservations by Monday the prior week.
R. Aderhold: 9 Robert What You Need
AARP Smart Driver Classes
Tuesday, April 24 | 1:00-4:00PM | Phoebe Northwest | 229-312-2418 Wednesday, April 25 | 1:00-4:00PM | Phoebe Northwest | 229-312-2418
To Know About Gallbladder Surgery
A P R I L
10 Virtual Colonoscopy is Becoming a Reallity for More People 11 Let’s Talk Women’s Health
CONTACTS CONTACTS Ken Boler
Vice President of Advertising 229-888-9319
ken.boler@albanyherald.com
Phil Cody
Majors/National Sales Representative
Ashanti Smith Multi-Media Representative
Tina Davis
Medical Representative
CALENDAR OF EVENTS NEW PARENTS BREAKFAST CLUB Providing a networking and support group
opportunity for all expectant and new parents.
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT Facilitated by the TRMC Women’s Health Navigator,
this support group is open to breast cancer patients and survivors as well as their caregivers.
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Open to any cancer patient or person providing care to a cancer patient.
DISTRIBUTION:
Southwest Georgia Health Beat has over 300,000 print-online monthly readers and distributes monthly to prime locations.
2 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | April 2018
When: Every Monday at 10 am Where: TRMC OB Classroom (second floor of TRMC), 901 East 18th Street, Tifton How: No registration necessary. Call 229-353-7605 for more information
When: First Tuesday of each month, 6 pm Where: First Baptist Church Family Life Center, 404 Love Avenue, Tifton How: Call 229-353-6325 to register or for more information
When: Every fourth Tuesday of the month at 5:30 pm Where: TRMC Oncology Center, 1623 Madison Avenue, Tifton How: Call 229-386-1300 to register or for more information LOCATIONS TO PICK UP YOUR COPY ARE:
Hospitals, Medical Offices, Drug Stores, Grocery Stores, Dental Offices, Fitness Centers, Colleges, Tech Schools and Industry Break Rooms
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Colorectal cancer is a serious problem in southwest Georgia where our colorectal cancer rates and death rates are higher than the state and national averages. That’s why Phoebe is playing an important role in a partnership to try to increase cancer screening rates. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. That is an especially tragic and alarming statistic because a large number of those deaths could be prevented. Many people should get their first colonoscopy when they turn 50. Those at higher risk, however, should begin sooner. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you should receive your first colonoscopy when you are ten years younger than the youngest age at which an immediate family member was diagnosed. And African Americans should be screened beginning at age 45. There is no reason to fear a colonoscopy or be embarrassed about getting one. It is a safe and quick procedure that allows physicians to identify and remove
Phoebe Resident is Committed to Serving Rural Patients Dr. Nana Sarpong Mensah feels deep connections to her roots. Those roots, however, are planted in many different areas. “I’m from a lot of places,” Dr. Mensah said. “I was born in East Lansing, Michigan, but I grew up in Ghana and moved back to America after college.” No matter where her family lived, one thing that never changed was the importance her parents placed on education. “Both my parents have a PhD, so the minimum they would accept from my sister and me was a master’s degree.” It was during her high school years in Ghana that Mensah’s interest in medicine was first sparked. She made monthly visits with the Red Cross to a village near her boarding school. During one visit, she treated a boy with an infected scrape on his knee, cleaning and bandaging his wound. “At that point, I thought I’d like to do something health-related, maybe nursing,” Mensah said. “Then when I got to college, I started putting it together more. I like science. I like helping people, and I like figuring things out. Being a physician and thinking things through and solving medical mysteries, I though
polyps before they develop into cancer or to find cancer in an early stage. Quite simply, a colonoscopy could save your life. Phoebe is proud to work with Horizons Community Solutions Cancer Coalition, Albany Area Primary Health Care and other partners to increase colorectal cancer screening rates. Through our partnership, we identify, screen and treat patients who might not have other options for care. In 2017, Phoebe gastroenterologists performed procedures on more than 900 uninsured or underinsured patients as part of our commitment to increasing access to care and lowering colorectal cancer rates in our area. In addition to cancer screenings, there are other ways you can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer. 1) Eat a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. 2) Watch your weight. 3) Exercise regularly. 4) Don’t smoke. 5) Limit alcohol consumption.
I f you adhere to those guidelines, talk to your physician about any family history of cancer and follow your doctor’s recommendations for screenings and treatment, you will drastically improve your chances of avoiding colorectal cancer and living a longer, healthier life.
Dr. Ruth D. Montalvo
that could be really intriguing.” After graduating from college in Ghana, Mensah earned that master’s degree her parents expected from her, but it wasn’t just any post-graduate degree. She attended two Ivy League schools, earning a master’s in public health from Columbia University and completing a post-baccalaureate program at the University of
That journey then led her to Albany and the Phoebe Family Medicine Residency (PFMR). “When I came down to visit, that’s what sold it for me,” Mensah said. “When I met the residents and the people associated with the program, I knew this was a place I would fit in.” PFMR is the only residency program at Phoebe, so residents don’t have to compete with residents in specialty programs for hands-on training. That was important to Mensah. “I like that I am being taught to do so many procedures because in family medicine, you can be called on to do anything. I appreciate that the most. We get to come up with our plans, and as long as they are sound, they let us do them,” she said. When Mensah finishes her residency, she hopes to use those skills to serve patients here in south Georgia. “We do see a lot of rural folks, and there is a need here, and I would definitely see myself staying in this region to practice,” Mensah said. She is also determined to stay connected to her roots by serving patients through mission trips to her other Dr. Nana Sarpong Mensah home country. “I do want to take care of rural populations both here and back in Pennsylvania so she could qualify to atGhana,” she said, living up to the charactend medical school in the United States. ter revealed years ago as a teenager car“I moved back to America in 2007, but I ing for a little boy with a skinned-up knee. didn’t graduate from medical school (at “When I know I can help, I have to do my the University of Kentucky) until 2017, so best to actually make a difference.” it was a long journey,” Mensah said.
April 2018 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 3
Your Rx for answers and savings: ASK A PHARMACIST
There’s no denying that prescription drug coverage and medications can be complex territory. Enter UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement’s Chief Pharmacy Officer Mike Anderson, PharmD, who has spent his career navigating the ins and outs of the Rx world.
Below, Anderson answers some common questions people ask about drug coverage and prescriptions. Q. What’s the difference between PDP and MA-PD plans? A. Original Medicare doesn’t provide coverage for most prescription drugs, so for help paying for medications, you have two options: a standalone Part D prescription drug plan (PDP) in addition to Original Medicare or Original Medicare and a Medicare supplement plan; or a Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage (MAPD). Medicare Advantage plans can include additional benefits like dental, vision and hearing coverage, and combine your coverage into a single plan. Both plans are offered by private insurance companies contracted by Medicare. Q. How do I know if my prescriptions are covered by my Medicare plan? A. Whether you get coverage through Medicare Advantage or a standalone Part D plan, each has a formulary, a list of prescription drugs covered. You’ll want to look closely to make sure your medications are covered. Health insurers post plan formularies online, or you can call your plan to request a printed version. Keep in mind that plans can change from year to year, so don’t assume that prescription drugs covered this year will always carry over. Q. How can I save money while remaining on my medications? A. There are many ways to do that: Home-delivery pharmacy benefits can save money and a trip to the pharmacy. Some mail-order pharmacies offer the convenience of ordering a three-month supply of drugs delivered to your home for less than purchasing at a retail location. If you prefer to visit a pharmacy, check if your plan offers programs or preferred pharmacy networks to help you save on prescriptions. Switching to generic drugs or drugs on a lower tier of the formulary is another step that could save money. If you are taking brand-name medications now, discuss generic alternatives with your doctor. Q. Can I split my pills in half? A. Talk to your doctor about whether pill-splitting for your medication is medically advised. Also, consult your pharmacist on whether the actual pill form presents risks. Some pills are dangerous when split, because splitting affects how quickly the drug is released into your body. Other pills become ineffective when split, because the pill contains a coating to protect it from stomach acid, and splitting the pill breaks that coating. Q. I take a lot of pills daily. One I take three times a day. Some I just take once. I get busy and forget to take my pills. Can I just take them all in the morning? A. It’s important to take your medicine as your doctor prescribed it. Some medications need to be taken at specific times to be effective. Plus, taking all your medications at one time can be dangerous as you run the risk of potential adverse interactions, side effects and even overdosing. Q. I drink smoothies with supplements and take vitamins. Can these have a bad interaction with my prescriptions? A. That’s a great question. If an iron supplement was added to the smoothie, for example, that could reduce the effectiveness of thyroid medication and medication for reflux disease. Talk to your pharmacist and doctor about vitamins and supplements to learn if they could cause a reaction or make your medications less effective. Q. I just got my medication refilled. It used to be a different color and shape. Why does it look different? A. More than likely, the pharmacy you use bought their supply from a different manufacturer. Drug companies that make the same medication must keep the chemical formula the same but may change the shape or color. As long as you verify it’s the same medication and dose, it should work just like before. If you have concerns, talk with your pharmacist. For more information to help you navigate prescription drug coverage, visit MedicareMadeClear.com 4 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | April 2018
DIABETES QUICK FACTS
MORE
MORE
The Big
Picture
THAN 30 MILLION PEOPLE PEOPLE IN THE UNITED STATES HAVE DIABETES, AND 1 IN 4 OF THEM DON’T KNOW THEY HAVE IT.
THAN 84 MILLION US ADULTS —OVER A THIRD—HAVE PREDIABETES, AND 90% OF THEM DON’T KNOW THEY HAVE IT.
TYPE 2 DIABETES
ACCOUNTS FOR ABOUT 90% TO 95% OF ALL DIAGNOSED CASES OF DIABETES.
TYPE 1 DIABETES ACCOUNTS FOR ABOUT 5%.
DIABETES IS THE 7TH LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH DIABETES IS THE 7TH LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN THE UNITED STATES (AND MAY BE UNDERREPORTED).
IN THE LAST 20 YEARS, THE NUMBER OF ADULTS DIAGNOSED WITH DIABETES HAS MORE THAN TRIPLED AS THE AMERICAN POPULATION HAS AGED AND BECOME MORE OVERWEIGHT OR OBESE.
RISK You’re at risk for developing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes if you: Are overweight Are age 45 or older Have a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes Are physically active less than 3 times a week Have ever had gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant) or given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds • African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians/Alaska Natives, Pacific Islanders, and some Asian Americans are at higher risk for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. • American Indians/Alaska Natives are twice as likely as whites to have diabetes. • During their lifetime, half of all Hispanic men and women and non-Hispanic black women are predicted to develop diabetes. • Type 1 diabetes is thought to be caused by an immune reaction (the body attacks itself by TAGGED mistake). KnownCNN/HEALTH risk factors for type 1 diabetes include:
Family history (having a parent, brother, sister with type 1 diabetes) Age (it’s more likely to develop in children, teens, and young adults) • In the United States, whites are more likely to develop type 1 diabetes than African Americans and Hispanic/Latino Americans. • You’re at risk for developing gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant) if you: Had gestational diabetes during a previous pregnancy Have given birth to a baby who weighed more than 9 pounds Are overweight Are more than 25 years old Have a family history of type 2 diabetes Have polycystic ovary syndrome Are African American, Hispanic/Latino American, American Indian/Alaska Native, or Pacific Islander • Gestational diabetes usually goes away after your baby is born but increases your risk for type 2 diabetes later in life. • Babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes are more likely to have obesity as children or teens, and are more likely to deveop
type 2 diabetes later in life too. COMPLICATIONS • People with diabetes are twice as likely to have heart disease or a stroke as people without diabetes—and at an earlier age. • Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure[PDF – 1.32MB], lower-limb amputations, and adult-onset blindness. • Smokers are 30–40% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than nonsmokers. • People with diabetes who smoke are more likely to develop serious related health problems, including heart and kidney disease. • In about 2 out of 3 American Indians/Alaska Natives with kidney failure, diabetes is the cause. COST • Medical costs and lost work and wages for people with diagnosed diabetes total $245 billion yearly. • Medical costs for people with diabetes are twice as high as for people who don’t have diabetes.
April 2018 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 5
Break free from cooking ruts with easy inspiration for fresh, lively dishes
Beyond ordinary: Cooking inspiration for warm weather months (BPT) - Are you in a c.ooking rut? If you find yourself making the same things over and over again, it’s time for some fresh inspiration. As seasons turn, you might crave different types of food. This is the perfect reason to think beyond the ordinary and experiment with new flavors. We asked registered dietitian and nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner for her favorite tips to help breathe new life into your weekly meal lineup without compromising taste and nutrition. Eat fresh: Farm-to-table is big at restaurants, and your local farmers market offers a bounty of fresh fare that’s likely plucked within miles of your home. Visit and enjoy exploring the colorful fare for sale while gaining inspiration for your next dish. The sweet peas and strawberries you buy may have just come off the plant that very morning. Stock up on fresh, nutritious foods for snacking and cooking. You may even discover new produce you’ve never had before!
Get crackin’: Let’s face it; we’re all strapped for time these days, which is why it’s important to keep your kitchen stocked with food items that are versatile and quick cooking. Look no further than eggs! Whether they’re the center of your meal, or used in a recipe to thicken, glaze or garnish, this modest kitchen staple is a high-quality protein source that will brighten up any dish. But, not all eggs are created equal. For delicious dishes packed with extra nutrients, I always recommend Eggland’s Best eggs since they are the only eggs with 25 percent less saturated fat, more than double the omega-3s, 10 times more vitamin E, and more than double the amount of vitamin B12 of ordinary eggs. Eggland’s Best even has hard-cooked peeled eggs with all the same nutrition plus the convenience of not having to hard boil the eggs yourself if you’re really in a hurry! Meal mix-ups: Chicken and waffles might be the classic example of blending two meal-specific foods into one super delightful dish, but meal mix-ups don’t stop there. Have fun experimenting to find combos that tantalize the taste buds. Steak and Egg Hash for dinner? Yum. Whole wheat pancakes instead of tortillas when making wraps? Sure! The sky is the limit. Grill or steam: When the weather warms up, you probably want to turn the oven off
and skip the stovetop frying. To lighten food and maintain freshness, try grilling or steaming. For example, when you grill meat, it allows the fat to drip off while touches of char bring out earthy notes. Steaming is a simple approach that is ideal for produce because it cooks while allowing your foods to maintain their distinct flavor profiles. Local inspiration: Iconic local ingredients can be the perfect way to add pizzazz to your meals. From Swedish meatballs in Minnesota and Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia, to Jersey tomatoes and Michigan blueberries, there’s endless inspiration for redefining dishes. While experimenting, consider submitting your recipe for Eggland’s Best 2018 ‘America’s Best Recipe’ Contest. You could win $10,000! From now until April 30, Eggland’s Best is searching for the most passionate egg fan with the best and most creative original egg recipe. Think your hometown recipe has what it takes to be America’s Best Recipe? Submit a recipe inspired by your favorite local/state ingredient or dish for the chance to win great prizes, including the grand prize of $10,000! Enter now at www. americasbestrecipe.com. For inspiration, check out a 2016 America’s Best Recipe Contest winning recipe for Watercress Confetti Quinoa at www.egglandsbest.com.
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Visit our website to join: www.marchforbabies.org 6 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | April 2018
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Most major insurances accepted Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
6 tips to reduce confusion in older patients after surgery not start until a few days after surgery, comes and goes, and usually disappears after about a week. Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) - This is a less well understood but more serious condition that can lead to long-term memory loss and make it difficult to learn, concentrate and think. Because some of these problems are already common in elderly people and may be the sign of an underlying long-term cognitive decline, the only way to determine if a patient actually has POCD is to conduct a mental test before surgery. Researchers in anesthesia care continue to study and learn more about these conditions and how to prevent or reduce the effects. During Patient Safety Awareness Week (March 11 to 17) ASA offers six tips for seniors to help limit confusion after surgery: 1. Ask your physician to conduct a pre-surgery cognitive test - an assessment of your mental function. The physician can use the results as a baseline for comparison after surgery. 2. Be sure your caregiver, a family member or friend stays or can visit with you as you recover, carefully observes your physical and mental activity after surgery and reports anything troubling to your physician. 3. Check with your physician before taking medications after surgery that can affect your nervous system, such as those for anxiety, seizures, muscle spasms or sleep aids. 4. If you wear hearing aids or glasses, ask that they be made available as soon as possible after the procedure. 5. Request a hospital room for recovery with a window if possible, so you can tell whether it’s day or night. 6. If you will be staying overnight in the hospital, pack a family photo, a clock and a calendar, or other familiar objects from home, to help you
readjust. In 2016, ASA launched the Perioperative Brain Health Initiative, which has engaged a multidisciplinary group to work with health care providers, payers and the public to create better access to care that minimizes the impact of pre-existing conditions that may impair mental thinking or intellectual abilities, and optimizes patients’ cognitive recovery and their experience before, during and after surgery for adults 65 and older. To learn more about preparing for surgery, visit asahq.org/wscpreparingforsurgery. You also can download and print Preparing for Surgery: An Anesthesia Checklist to take with you to visit your physician anesthesiologist prior to surgery, as well as when you go to the hospital or outpatient clinic for the surgery. A brochure on seniors and anesthesia is also available for download. To learn more about the critical role physician anesthesiologists play before, during and after surgery, visit www. asahq.org/WhenSecondsCount. THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF ANESTHESIOLOGISTS Founded in 1905, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) is an educational, research and scientific society with more than 52,000 members organized to raise and maintain the standards of the medical practice of anesthesiology. ASA is committed to ensuring physician anesthesiologists evaluate and supervise the medical care of patients before, during and after surgery to provide the highest quality and safest care every patient deserves. For more information on the field of anesthesiology, visit the American Society of Anesthesiologists online at asahq.org. To learn more about the role physician anesthesiologists play in ensuring patient safety, visit asahq.org/ WhenSecondsCount. Like ASA on Facebook; follow ASALifeline on Twitter.
538541-1
(BPT) - The longer you live the more likely you will develop a medical condition that requires surgery or a procedure. In fact, half of all people 65 and older will have at least one surgical procedure in their lifetime. And along with common potential side effects from anesthesia during surgery such as nausea, chills or muscle aches and itching, older patients are at risk for confusion or short-term memory loss. But, rest assured, there are steps seniors can take to minimize these side effects. “The aging brain is more vulnerable to anesthesia and surgery, but there is research that provides guidance to decrease these risks,” said James D. Grant, M.D., M.B.A., FASA, president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). “Older patients should talk with their physician anesthesiologist prior to surgery about their entire medical history and any memory problems they’ve had in the past, so an anesthesia plan can be developed that ensures their safety and reduces the chance of side effects or complications.” Two anesthesia-related surgery risks more common in older people include: Postoperative delirium - This is a temporary condition that causes the patient to be confused, disoriented, unaware of their surroundings and have problems with memory and paying attention. may
April 2018 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 7
Fixing a broken toe; remedies for opiate withdrawal Q: Last week I got up in the middleof the night and slammed my foot into a chair. I’m pretty sure I broke my middle toe. It still hurts, but there’s nothing that can be done for it, right?— Charlie H., Mendocino, California A: Sorry Charlie, that’s a myth. It’s always best to have a broken toe evaluated, and the sooner you have it looked at, the better. The first and most obvious reasons are that a doctor can give you the right diagnosis (sprain, bruise, break?), help you correct the injury/problem, prevent further injury (if your gait is thrownout of whack) and help alleviate the pain. Your toe might not be broken, and you treat a bad bruise differently than a broken toe. For example: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (R.I.C.E.) work for asprain or bruise, but may not for a break. Untreated, your pain could go on for along time and your injury could develop complications ranging from infection, if the skin were broken when you injured it, to arthritis, if the bones heal in a position that isn’t lined up properly. Also, if your injury doesn’t heal correctly and you’re limping around for an extended time, you could develop muscle strain in your legs and back or evenarthritis in your ankle, knee or hip joint. So go see a doc and have it looked at. There’s a chance he’ll send you on your way, but he/she might tape it to the toe next to it (called buddy taping), surgically reset it or put a pin in the toe (really a screw) to make sure the bones heal properly. Then, down the road, you’ll be able to go down the road without pain or a limp. Q: I saw an ad on the internet for an herbal supplement called kratom that claims it’s effective for alleviating the symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Is there any truth to this? —Janine G., Patterson, New Jersey A: We guess you or a loved one may be struggling with opioid addiction. That calls for immediate medical support and intervention. (Go to the Na-
tional Institute for Drug Abuse at www.drugabuse. gov and look for “Effective Treatments for Opioid Addiction.”) Be very careful with any herbal remedy that sounds too good to be true because, as the old adage says, it probbly is. Kratom has come under firerecently because companies are marketing it unscrupulously. It was almost banned as a level 1 substance in 2016 by the Drug Enforcement Agency, but they backed off, which was a good thing because it can be researched further. However, on Nov 14, 2017, the Food and Drug Administration issued a public health advisory for kratom. Here’s the story. The plant kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) grows in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesiaand Papua New Guinea and has beenused for many years in Southeast Asia as an opium substitute. Yes, it’s addictive —and like too many things American, after its move across the Pacific (and under the radar of the medical community), it was immediately hyped, marketed and abused. (Curiously, there’s not a single doctor on the board of the herb advocating American Kratom Association.) The Center for Science in the Public Interest has asked the FDA and the Federal Trade Commission to take enforcement action to protect the American public from companies selling kratom, saying that they’re clearly exploiting the opioid epidemic. According to CSIP and the PEW Charitable Trust, there are currently only three FDA-approved medically assisted treatments for opioid withdrawal: methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone. For an opiate detox, find a medicalsupervisor and ask about using those meds. A good detox program will also include cognitive behavioral therapy and a support buddy or group to ensure long term benefits. During withdrawal you also may get dehydrated and experience deficiencies of calcium, magnesium and potassium. That’s another important reason you should talk to a medical expert, Janine. Don’t go it alone.
* * *Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic.Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen at youdocsdaily(at sign)sharecare.com.© 2017 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
health tip
RELAX, RECHARGE AND ENERGIZE THROUGH BREATHING
Bhramri or Bumble Bee
pressure, heart diseases. It is useful in meditation also. *Method As words and intentions are powerful Sit comfortably on chair. Relax your shoulders.Take deep cleansing breaths. use affirmations. Close your eyes with both the thumbs If any body part needs healing send Breath is one of our best tool in energy there and affirm I receive and eyes with the middle fingers of managing stress. perfect health in my body. *Calms the mind and the nervous your hands on respective sides with system, allowing deep relaxation. little pressure. Press forehead with both You can use any affirmation of your *Helps to balance the left and right choice. the index fingers lightly. Breathe in till hemisphere of the brain (linear thinking your lungs are full of air. Concentrate OTHER AFFIRMATIONS: with creative thinking). your mind on the point between your My body is calm. *Cleanses and rejuvenates vital eyebrows. Close your mouth. Begin I am at peace. channels of energy. slowly exhaling, making humming I release my fears. *Increases the intake of oxygen sound of a bee, while reciting ‘Aum’ or ‘ I love and accept myself. throughout the body which detoxifies Amen’ mentally. I receive perfect health into my body. the body and restores the body. I let go everything which does not serve me. *Duration *Most of the people do not have the I let go of all negative ideas about my body. habit of breathing deeply with the result Practice this for 3 to 10 times according Healing energy flows through my body. that only 1/4 part of the lungs is brought to your capacity. I am here, I am now, I am free. *Benefits into action and 75% remains inactive. I feel all the good things coming to me. Mind becomes calm and steady. *By regular practice, habit of deep I am getting better and better everyday in breathing is developed which results in Benefits in conditions like mental every way. tension, Anxiety, Agitation, high blood several health benefits. Jyotsna Agarwal Holistic Health Life Coach | Reiki Master and Tai Chi/Qigong practitioner 8 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | April 2018
What You Need to Know About Gallbladder Surgery
Robert R. Aderhold MD, FACS
By Robert Aderhold, MD What is a gallbladder? The gallbladder is part of the system of tubes that delivers bile from the liver to the intestine. Bile is made in the liver and flows to the very first part of the small intestine. It mixes with food as it goes through the digestive system and helps us absorb fat. The gallbladder acts as a storage tank for bile. When we are not eating, the bile is stored in the gallbladder. When we eat a meal, the gallbladder contracts and releases bile into the duct system that delivers it to the intestine. How can gallbladders go bad? The most common reason for gallbladder problems is gallstones. These occur when the bile in the gallbladder turns solid. They can irritate the gallbladder, causing signs and symptoms. Stones of the right size can block the outlet of the gallbladder so that it cannot empty. That typically causes more severe pain and illness. If a stone leaves the gallbladder and gets into the bile ducts downstream,
Questions and Answers About Hernias What is a hernia? A hernia is a hole in the muscle of the abdominal wall that allows fat or intestine to bulge out under the skin. The abdominal wall is covered in skin, and beneath the skin is fat. Beneath the fat is a layer of muscle that contains the fat and organs in the abdomen. Hernias form at different points of weakness in the abdominal wall such as the belly button (umbilical hernias), the groin (inguinal hernias, which are very common in men), other natural weak spots in the abdominal wall (different types of ventral hernias), and at the sites of previous incisions (incisional hernias). There are many other types and locations of hernias that are less common. How do hernias form? If the muscle of the abdominal wall has a weak point such as a previous incision, increases in abdominal pressure due to straining as with heavy lifting or in the bathroom can cause the connective tissue to stretch and eventually come apart. Some hernias develop without especially high abdominal pressures or straining and without an obvious explanation. Obesity stretches the abdominal wall and increases the likelihood of hernia formation. What problems do hernias cause? Most hernias are noticeable to the patient as a bulge beneath the skin. The most common problem associated with hernias is pain, which may only be a nuisance or may be severe. If fat bulges through the hernia defect and gets stuck so that it can’t be pushed back into the abdomen, it can be severely painful and may
the entire bile system can be blocked. Bile duct stones can also block the drainage of the pancreas, causing pancreatitis. Bile duct stones can lead to severe illness. The gallbladder can also become inflamed without stones. This can be either acute or chronic inflammation, and it can lead to the same signs and symptoms as gallbladder disease due to stones.
usually resulting in a fast recovery for the patient. This operation is frequently done on an outpatient basis. More severe inflammation of the gallbladder or stones in the bile ducts frequently result in hospitalization. Usually, the operation and any procedures necessary to remove stones from the bile duct will be done during that hospitalization. Intravenous fluids and antibiotics may be needed.
What are the signs and symptoms of gallbladder disease? The most common symptom of gallbladder inflammation is pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. This is frequently associated with nausea or vomiting. It frequently radiates to the right mid-back. Signs and symptoms are frequently brought on by eating, and particularly by eating fatty meals. Different patients may notice that different types of foods cause their symptoms. Acute, severe inflammation of the gallbladder usually leads to severe pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. It will frequently be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Blockage of the bile ducts may lead to jaundice, usually first noticed in the whites of the eyes. If the blocked bile duct becomes infected, that can lead to severe, life-threatening infection of the liver. This is uncommon.
What are the risks of gallbladder surgery? Removal of the gallbladder is a low-risk operation. However, there is no such thing as an operation without risk. Gallbladder surgery has the risks of bleeding, infection, damage to the bile ducts, damage to other organs or structures, conversion to the open operation, and the need for further procedures or operations to correct problems. Fortunately, such problems are rare and the vast majority of patients recover very nicely and feel much better after removal of the diseased gallbladder.
How is gallbladder disease treated? Whether due to stones or without stones, gallbladder disease is very commonly and successfully treated with removal of the gallbladder. This operation is usually done laparoscopically, which means that small incisions are used to allow the surgeon to place a video scope and long instruments in the abdomen to perform the operation. The gallbladder is removed through one of the small incisions, which are then closed, leaving small scars and require urgent surgery. This is called an incarcerated hernia. If a loop of intestine becomes incarcerated in a hernia, it can get kinked and blocked. This usually requires hospitalization for urgent repair of the hernia and relief of the bowel obstruction. If an incarcerated loop of intestine is pinched too tightly by the edges of the hernia defect, its blood supply can get cut off, and that segment of intestine can actually die. This is called a strangulated hernia and can lead to severe illness and a big operation. Fortunately, strangulated hernias are uncommon. How are hernias diagnosed? The most important element in the evaluation of a hernia is a physical exam by an experienced surgeon. Additional useful information and detail can be obtained with imaging studies such as CT scans or ultrasound. How are hernias treated? Some hernias can be left alone, and that may be the best plan in situations where the hernia is causing minimal symptoms and the risk of the operation may outweigh the benefit. But most hernias are repaired surgically. Hernia repair can be done through an incision directly over the hernia or laparoscopically. In laparoscopic hernia repair, the surgeon places a video scope and long instruments in the abdomen through small incisions. The fat and/or intestine in the hernia defect is pulled back into the abdomen and the defect is closed from the inside. Mesh is commonly used to reinforce many different types of hernia repairs. There are many types of mesh with different configurations and characteristics. The technique of hernia repair and the type of mesh used, if any, always depend on the location and nature of the individual hernia and the characteristics of the patient. Hernia repair occasionally requires a stay in the hospital. Fortunately, however,
Detailed evaluation and definitive treatment of gallbladder disease is available at Albany Surgical, P.C., where gallbladder removal is frequently accomplished on an ambulatory basis at an ambulatory surgery center without the need for hospitalization.
the majority of hernia repairs are accomplished on an ambulatory basis without the need for hospitalization. What are the risks of hernia repair? The specific risks of any given hernia repair will depend on the size, location, and other characteristics of that specific hernia. Individual patient characteristics such as age, obesity, diabetes, smoking, and history of prior abdominal surgery also influence surgical risk. Risks common to most or all hernia repairs include bleeding, infection, damage to intestine or other organs, hernia recurrence, and the possible need for further procedures or operations to correct problems. Fortunately, serious complications are rare for most hernia operations. Who fixes hernias? As specialists in General Surgery, the surgeons at Albany Surgical, P.C. have decades of collective experience in evaluating hernias and tailoring treatment plans and operations to individual patients. Disclaimer: The HIPAA Final Privacy Rule requires covered entities to safeguard certain Protected Health Information (PHI) related to a person’s healthcare. Information being faxed to you may include PHI after appropriate authorization from the patient or under circumstances that do not require patient authorization. You, the recipient, are obligated to maintain PHI in a safe and secure manner. You may not re-disclose without additional patient consent or as required by law. Unauthorized re-disclosure or failure to safeguard PHI could subject you to penalties described in federal (HIPAA) and state law. If you the reader of this message are not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, please notify us immediately and destroy the related message.
April 2018 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 9
Virtual Colonoscopy Is Becoming a Reality for More People (NewsUSA) - Colorectal cancer deaths are slowly declining, but shocking racial and ethnic disparities remain. According to the American Cancer Society, Latinos living in the United States are more likely to develop and die from this disease than those in many Central and South American countries. African-Americans are at least 41 percent more likely to die from colorectal cancer than whites. Both groups are also less likely to get screened, and their cancers are often found later.
WHAT CAN BE DONE?
A growing number of medical groups, patient advocates and members of Congress say virtual colonoscopy - known medically as CT colonography - can overcome cultural stigmas and anxiety associated with this screening. “CT colonography can attract those who would otherwise not be screened, allow doctors to remove more polyps before they become cancers and help people avoid getting this disease,” says Carolyn R. (“Bo”) Aldigé, president and founder of the Prevent Cancer Foundation. The evidence is there Virtual colonoscopy is an American Cancer Society-recommended screening exam. Studies show that it is as accurate as standard colonoscopy in most people - including those 65 and older. Virtual colonoscopy increases screening rates where it is offered in the U.S. and abroad. Former President Obama chose to have the virtual exam. Michael Sapienza, President and CEO of the Colon Cancer Alliance, says the virtual exam can “jump-start screening by offering access to a less-invasive option that millions of screening age who choose not to be tested find more appealing.” Unfortunately, the prep is the same However, the virtual exam is far less invasive than standard colonoscopy. The CT scanner uses low-dose X-rays to make 3-D, moving images of the colon that doctors examine for polyps and cancer. The test does not require sedation. It is over in minutes. And you may not need someone to drive you to the exam. Afterward, you can go back to daily activities. Private insurers are starting to listen Thirty-six states require that insurance policies sold in their state cover virtual colonoscopy. Insurers who take part in federal exchanges are required under the Affordable Care Act to cover the exam. CIGNA, UnitedHealthcare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna and other insurers cover these tests irrespective of ACA requirements. Challenges remain for Medicare patients Screening those on Medicare with virtual colonoscopy may cost nearly a third less than standard colonoscopy. Yet, Medicare is among a shrinking number of insurers that does not cover the test. “We need more Medicare-covered options, including CT colonography, to increase Hispanic screening rates and save lives,” says Elena V. Rios, MD, MSPH, president and chief executive officer of the National Hispanic Medical Association. Patient and provider groups want Congress to pass a new bill that would provide Medicare coverage for virtual colonoscopy. “With Medicare coverage, CT colonography can increase screening and reduce unnecessary deaths,” says Judy Yee, MD, chair of the American College of Radiology Colon Cancer Committee.
Find more information on virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography) at RadiologyInfo.org/virtualct. 10 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | April 2018
LET’S TALK
WITH
Keisha R. Callins, MD. MPH ERCER UNIVERSITY
Call to Action: Seeking Solutions to the Mystery of Ovarian Cysts ENLIGHTENMENT Ovarian cysts are a common finding in women from the teenage years and beyond. Most cysts will not be associated with any significant discomfort and will disappear over time without any treatment. Cysts may be associated with symptoms such nausea, vomiting, pain, pressure, feeling of full and bloated in the abdomen, or changes in cycles or bowel movements. Risks for developing cysts may be associated with medications, pregnancy, infection, age, and whether or not you have had a baby or your ability to get pregnant. Cysts may produce complications if they rupture, bleed, get twisted (ovarian torsion), or and although not common, if they become the source of a cancer. EDUCATION Women have two ovaries, one located on each side of the uterus, and are connected to the uterus by the fallopian tubes. Ovaries are the storage place for eggs; it is also where they develop, and are then released monthly during the menstrual cycle. Ovarian cysts are fluid filled sacs or pockets inside or outside of the ovary. An annual pelvic exam (along with your pap smear) is an opportunity to monitor your body for changes such as cysts. There are two main categories of cysts. The most common ovarian cysts are benign (non-cancerous) cysts which include functional cysts (related to the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, and non-functional cysts such as a dermoid (contain tissue usually found in other parts of the body), cystadenoma (contain fluid
M
SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
or mucous), and endometrioma (develop from endometriosis). Malignant (cancerous) ovarian cysts are rare. EMPOWERMENT An ovarian cyst is often identified by an imaging study such as pelvic ultrasound, CT scan , or MRI of the abdomen and pelvis. The imaging study provides a description of the cyst - size (small vs. large), consistency (simple vs. complex), and blood flow to the ovary. This information will be used to help guide your management. Your provider will also perform a pelvic exam and may recommend certain lab tests. Treatment may include observation; repeat imaging (usually a pelvic ultrasound); follow up pelvic exam and blood tests; medication (for management of pain or regulation of hormones); or surgery – only the cyst is removed (cystectomy), or ovary is removed (ooph-er-ectomy), or removal of ovaries, tubes, and uterus (total hysterectomy) in some cases. ENCOURAGEMENT Although ovarian cysts can cause worry because of the fear of a poor diagnosis, the majority of ovarian cysts are not cancerous, and most of the cysts that do occur may not cause symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms associated with an ovarian cyst, please seriously consider adopting the recommendations from your provider to develop the best management plan and monitoring process for you.
QUOTE OF THE MONTH: “SUCCESS IS LIKING YOURSELF, LIKING WHAT YOU DO, AND LIKING HOW YOU DO IT” ~ MAYA ANGELOU ~
GET YOUR GREENS WITH OUR FRESHLY-PREPARED
SALADS Crisp and full of flavor. Enjoy a variety of mixed green salads prepared with ribbon-cut carrots and fresh lettuce like crisp chopped romaine, baby spinach, baby kale and red leaf lettuce. And loaded with toppings.
Dr. Jinne’ Richards, MD, Medical Director
1216 Dawson Rd, Ste 113 Albany GA 31707-3867
538721-1
538545-1
(229) 349 6390
THESE ARE SOME GREAT GREENS!
April 2018 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 11
Skin CanCer TreaTmenT ~ Skin examS mohS Surgery ~ mole removal
538542-1
(229) 438-7100 (229)438-7100 438-7100 (229)
Allergies ••Hives ••Sinus/Respiratory Problems Food Allergies Hives Sinus/Respiratory Problems odFood Allergies • Hives • Sinus/Respiratory Problems Asthma Hay Fever Insect Allergies Asthma ••Hay Fever ••Insect Allergies Asthma • Hay Fever • Insect Allergies 105 Spanish Court Inside Grand Island Albany 105 Spanish Court • Inside Grand Island•• Albany 105 Spanish Court Inside Grand Island ••Albany Albany 105 Spanish Court • ••Inside Grand Island
Now accepting patients at our new location: 2201 U.S. Highway 41 North in Tifton
Dennis Robinson,M.D. M.D.••Tracy TracyA. A.Bridges, Bridges, M.D. M.D. Dennis A.A. Robinson, Dennis A. Robinson, M.D. • Nancy Tracy A. Bridges, M.D. Michael Fowler, PA-C McKemie, PA-C Michael A.A. Fowler, PA-C • •Nancy McKemie, PA-C Michael A. Fowler, PA-C McKemie, Erin M. Cannington, M.D.•••Nancy Jennifer Berry,PA-C FNP-C Erin M. Cannington, M.D. Jennifer Berry, FNP-C
12 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | April 2018
538731-1
448931-1 448931-1
Erin M. Cannington, M.D. • Jennifer Berry, FNP-C