DECEMBER 2015 #1 Health Magazine in Southwest Georgia
Flu & You: Flu Vaccine After A ge 65 Let’s Talk: Women’s Health Alzheimer’s: Unsure Future
Look Inside for Dr. Oz!
Speech Therapy for Students
Dr. Hans Chang Albany Diagnostics
Keisha Callins, M.D. Albany Area Primary Health Care
Erin Cannington, M.D. Allergy and Asthma Clinics of Georgia
James Palazzolo, M.D. Sleep Apnea Centers of America
Kelly Miller, FNP-BC Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center
Dr. Rex Ajayi South Georgia Urology
TIFTON ALBANY AMERICUS BAINBRIDGE SYLVESTER THOMASVILLE VALDOSTA CORDELE MOULTRIE AND SURROUNDING AREAS
Features 3
Ask Doctor K
8
Flu After Age 65
12
Alzheimer’s Disease: Planning for the Future
14
Antibiotics Aren’t Always the Answer
19
Pregnant? Get a Flu Shot
21
Speech Therapy for Students
23
Prescription Cost Control
EVENT CALENDAR Email upcoming events to: swgahealthbeat@gmail.com
December 5 Jingle Bell Jog The Jingle Bell Jog is the traditional kick-off for family holiday fun. This year marks our 27th anniversary for this fun, family event. The Jog will consist of a 5K run and walk, a 10K run, a 1-mile fun walk and the TODDLER TROT. 100% of every dollar raised through the Jingle Bell Jog benefits Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and are used to purchase life saving equipment and provide vital education to help the many ill and injured children treated at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. For questions about the 2015 Jingle Bell Jog please contact Amanda Biery at 229-3121494. December - Each Wednesday Free Lung Cancer Screenings 8:00 am - 11:00 am Lewis Hall Singletary Oncology Center, 919 S. Broad Street, Thomasville Our providers will offer free, low-dose CT scans to screen for lung cancer. Screenings are available to individuals ages 55–74 who are current smokers or who have quit smoking within the last 15 years. *Screenings by appointment only. Please call 229.584.5454 to schedule your appointment today. web@archbold.org (229) 584-5454 December 12 What to Expect Before and After Delivery
DECEMBER 2015
9:00 am - 3:00 pm Archbold East Tower Classroom #2 Building, Suite 270 Thomasville (229) 228-2943 kodom@archbold.org Free class. Lunch is provided.. December 10 Breastfeeding Class 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Meeting Room 3 - Tift Regional Medical Center (new addition) (229) 353-7605 This class gives basic information on breastfeeding, getting started and common concerns of breastfeeding. Topics covered include: making the decision to breastfeed; preparation for breastfeeding; putting baby to breast; helpful hints; maternal nutrition while breastfeeding; and breastfeeding and work. Free of charge. December 10 Tift Regional Annual Tree of Life Ceremony 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Front Lawn at Tift Regional Medical Center Area residents will honor family and friends and remember lost loved ones at the Tree of Life lighting ceremony. An annual holiday tradition in its 30th year, the Tree of Life is sponsored by the Tifton Junior Woman’s Club, raising money for a special fund benefiting patients of the Anita Stewart Oncology Center and Hospice of Tift
2 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
Area with special needs. December 12 Prepared Childbirth 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Meeting Room 3 (first floor at Tift Regional Medical Center) The Prepared Childbirth Classes will cover general topics relating to labor, delivery, and basic care of your baby. We do suggest that you bring a partner with you for class. Registration required. (229) 353-7605
Recurring Events Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital Diabetes Support Group Third Tuesday each month | 3 pm at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center cafeteria private dining room Chair Yoga Sowega Council On Aging Wednesdays | 11 - 11:45 am at Senior Life Enrichment Center Call 435-6789 to register • FREE • Age 60+ Line Dancing Sowega Council On Aging Mondays | 11 am Advanced, Wednesdays | 3 pm at Senior Life enrichment Center Call 435-6789 to register • FREE • Age 60+
ASK DOCTOR K DON'T USE SOME MEDICATIONS PAST THEIR EXPIRATION DATE DEAR DOCTOR K: Sometimes the pills in my medicine cabinet reach the expiration date. Do I really need to throw them out? They can be expensive. DEAR READER: The two questions to ask about pills that are past their expiration date are: Do they lose their strength, and do they become toxic or harmful? There is little evidence that outdated medications become toxic or harmful. However, some drugs do lose their potency, or effectiveness, over time. The most notable is nitroglycerin, which should be replaced every six months. The epinephrine in EpiPens also loses its potency past its expiration date. You absolutely do not want to take the risk of needing a nitroglycerin pill to treat sudden heart pain -- and having the pill not work. Likewise with EpiPens to stop a severe allergic reaction. In addition, liquid drugs are less stable than tablets or powders. Liquid drugs include oral suspensions and solutions and injectable products. As a general rule, I would get a fresh refill of liquid drugs when they pass their expiration date. Most drugs, however, retain their strength past their expiration dates. In one study, for example, researchers tested 96 different drugs stored in their original containers. They found that more than threequarters of these drugs would remain stable for nearly five years beyond their expiration dates. And a study of two anti-influenza drugs found that these drugs remained fully active after 25 years of storage! Drug companies generally give their products an expiration date two to three years from the date they're manufactured. Then, your pharmacist labels your bottle with an expiration date that's usually one year from the day your prescription is filled. So the expiration date you see on your pill bottle is usually sooner than the expiration date the drug company has assigned your
pills. Expiration dates shouldn't really matter with a medicine to treat a temporary problem -- like taking an antibiotic for strep throat, for example. You should have swallowed the last medicine long before its expiration date. And expiration dates shouldn't matter for a medicine that you are supposed to take regularly for a chronic problem, such as to keep your blood pressure normal. If you are taking the medicine as prescribed, it should never have an expiration date that already has passed. In fact, expiration dates should be an issue only when you have a medicine for a recurring temporary problem. I'm thinking of a strong pain pill for back pain that flares up from time to time, for example, or an antibiotic for a recurrent urinary tract infection. Remember that the favorable results I mentioned apply to medications that have been stored properly. Always keep your drugs in a cool, dry place in their original containers. And toss out medicines you no longer need. Their presence in your medicine cabinet can be confusing and could cause you accidentally to take the wrong pill. (This column is an update of one that ran originally in October 2011.) (Dr. Komaroff is a physician and professor at Harvard Medical School. To send questions, go to AskDoctorK.com, or write: Ask Doctor K, 10 Shattuck St., Second Floor, Boston, MA 02115.) (EDITORS: For editorial questions, please contact Alan McDermott at amcdermott@amuniversal.com.) COPYRIGHT 2015 THE PRESIDENT AND FELLOWS OF HARVARD COLLEGE DISTRIBUTED BY UNIVERSAL UCLICK FOR UFS 1130 Walnut, Kansas City, MO 64106; 816-581-7500
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 3
Step It Up: Training For The Tri-athalon of Life Enlightenment For a variety of reasons, women can find it hard to balance the care of the “whole” self: body, mind, and spirit. Less then ideal balance can contribute to illness, mental distress, poor job performance, stress, difficulty sleeping, and bad eating habits. Women may focus on one or another part of their self-care, but it takes purposeful effort to address all three. I propose that your life satisfaction will improve when you take the time to make an action plan to “step it up”. Education Better Your Body: 1) get active, 2) control cholesterol, 3) eat better, 4) manage blood pressure, 5) lose weight, 6) reduce blood sugar, and 7) stop smoking. Better Your Mind: Your brain needs a workout too: 1) brain games and puzzles, 2) mix up your exercise activities, 3) eat more brain foods like nuts and blueberries, 4) sleep, 5) volunteer, 6) try something new – new sport, read a book, learn a language, learn an instrument, and 7) make time for family and friends. Better Your Spirit: 1) take time for yourself every day, 2) be open-minded, 3) practice forgiveness, 5)
4 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
pray, meditate or worship, 6) choose to live joyfully, and 7) ask and accept help. Empowerment It may seem that the suggestions above seem like more things added to your to-do list, but the difference is the reason behind it. It’s time to thrive and not just survive. This requires intentional efforts to change the life you have. You are the only one who can do that. Encouragement As you prepare for a new year, please consider ways that you can take better care of your “whole” self – body, mind, and spirit. Take a few minutes today and decide on how you plan to achieve a better balance in your life.
Quote Of The Month: “If you must look back, do so forgivingly. If you must look forward, do so prayerfully. However, the wisest thing you can do is be present in the present…gratefully.” ~ Maya Angelou ~
295302-1
Established in Albany since 1985, Dr. Rex Ajayi, board certified in both adult and pediatric urology, offers diagnostic services and a broad spectrum of surgical and non-surgical treatments for male and female patients of all ages who suffer from urinary tract problems. SOME OF THESE CONDITIONS ARE: ~ Benign and Malignant Disorders of the Prostate, Bladder and Kidney ~ Erectile Dysfunction ~ Impotence ~ Vasectomy ~ Female Stress Urinary Incontinence ~ Hematuria (Blood in the urine) ~ Male Incontinence ~ Male Infertility ~ Kidney Stones ~ Overactive Bladder ~ Pelvic Pain (Interstitial Cystitis) ~ Prostatitis ~ Scrotal Masses ~ Testicular Cancer ~ Urinary Tract Infections
In our new surgery center, we also perform minimally invasive surgeries for a variety of urological problems. These surgeries provide excellent results, cost less money and require a much shorter recovery time. 288275-1
Call Us Today To Make An Appointment 1257+ -$&.621 67 Â&#x2021; $/%$1< *$ Â&#x2021;
281222-1 294755-1
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 5
STATINS AND VACCINES; ARE WE WAKING UP SUPER VIRUSES? Q: I just read that the flu vaccine doesn't work as well for folks who use statins. Is this true? I've been taking a low-dose statin for years. -Greg C., University Heights, Ohio A: The results of a couple of recent studies reveal that this might be the case for people over age 65, and it reinforces the need for older folks, especially those who take statins, to make sure they get the high-dose flu vaccine that's available for seniors, ASAP. First, let's look at the two studies, and then you'll see why getting your flu vaccine is so important. The first study examined the records of 7,000 adults over age 65 in the U.S., Colombia, Panama and the Philippines and looked at the level of influenza antibodies in people who got the vaccine compared with those who didn't get it. They found that the statin users had fewer influenza antibodies, indicating a lower immune response to the vaccine. The second study covered 140,000 Americans over nine flu seasons, and it also concluded that the effectiveness of flu vaccine in older people could be compromised by the use of statins. Where does this leave you, Greg? Most important, do not stop taking or reduce your statin dose without your doctor's permission. Statins are proven life-savers, as is the influenza vaccine. So, what's the right move? If you're taking a statin, ask your doc about getting the highdose trivalent flu vaccine (whether you're over 65 or not). It's a powerful protection against three strains of this potentially serious respiratory infection. If you combine taking your statin with a flu vaccine, you'll be protecting your heart and lungs. Bottom line: Together, statins and the flu vaccines are saving a lot of lives. And maybe next year the high-dose vaccine will have additives called adjuvants, which can further boost your body's own immune response. They're currently approved in Europe. Q: I read that megaviruses from the last Ice Age are being uncovered in the melting permafrost in Siberia. Does that mean that global warming will wipe us out with 6 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
a plague from the past? -Danny O., Pittsburgh A: It doesn't seem likely that melting permafrost will lead to epic disaster, because humans don't seem vulnerable to these ancient viruses. But scientists are double-checking just in case. Here's what's happening: The permafrost is a layer of soil or subsoil that has been (mostly) permanently frozen. It's found in the coldest places on the planet, like northeast Russia. But climate change is happening twice as fast near the poles as near the equator, so scientists have been examining what's lurking in 30,000-year-old samples of this soil (that's down about 100 feet) in order to determine what will be laid bare when the polar ice caps and permafrost melt. In 2003, they discovered a giant virus they named Mimivirus. Its genome has 650,000 base pairs of genes, a lot for a virus (the human genome has three billion). Then in 2013 the Pandoravirus was discovered. It has more than 310 times the number of genes as influenza A! Next, they ID'd Pithovirus sibericum and, most recently, the Mollivirus sibericum, the largest they've found so far. Now two of these viruses Pandoravirus and Pithovirus sibericum - have retained their ability to infect single-celled amoebas. The question researchers are now asking: Are there any down there that might have retained their "infectivity" for mammals? As scientists explore the genetic makeup of these superviruses, they're hoping it will help us understand more about how life developed on our planet and how to make sure we protect it, especially since drilling and mining in these now ever-less-frozen areas could stir up these potentially dangerous, sleeping giants. 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. (c) 2015 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
294312-1
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 7
8 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 9
DID YOU KNOW? COURTESY OF METROCONNECTION
Exercise is a great way to maintain a healthy mind and body. Many people begin a new year by making resolutions to lose weight or build muscle. Too often, however, men and women get stuck in an exercise rut, following the same exercise routine week after week. Not only can this be boring, fitness experts advise that it's necessary to change an exercise routine periodically to continue to see results. It's one reason why many fitness clubs unveil new classes every few weeks. Just when you master the choreography of a class, it's time to change! With repetition, the body adapts and grows accustomed to the routine, using less energy as a result. That can affect your ability to lose weight. Changing your workout forces your body to work harder, producing better results. If you exercise with a trainer, discuss ways to modify your normal routine to surprise your body. Increased intensity, interval training, adding sprints to running, taking different classes, or even increasing the frequency of your workouts may do the trick.
ELEGANT RETIREMENT
295800-1
conveniently located in the heart of South Georgia
10 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
Kefir is a nutrientdense dairy product COURTESY OF METROCONNECTION
Dairy offers a bevy of nutritional benefits that have been well documented throughout the years. Dairy is a great source calcium, which bodies need to develop and maintain strong bones and teeth. Milk, cheese and yogurt are popular sources of dairy, but kefir is another dairy product you may want to explore. Kefir is a cultured milk beverage that is formed by fermenting milk with a starter culture of key bacteria and yeasts. While North Americans may not be entirely familiar with kefir, it has been popular in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and parts of the Mediterranean for centuries. Kefir is formed by mixing a culture of yeasts and bacteria, called kefir grains, with milk. The kefir grains, which form a substance that looks something like cauliflower, will ferment the milk. As the milk ferments, it froths and thickens. The beverage will take on a sour flavor and sometimes it can be left to ferment longer and turn into an alcoholic beverage. Often kefir is mixed with other ingredients to make it sweeter and more palatable. Kefir was traditionally made with camel, sheep, goat, or cow milk. Kefir grains would be added to the milk stored inside a skin bag that would be hung by a doorway. The bag would be shaken by anyone coming through the doorway to constantly mix the milk and keir grains together. It could take up to 18 hours for the kefir beverage to fully mature at room temperature. Although both kefir and yogurt are cultured milk products, they do have some differences. Kefir contains several major strains of body-friendly bacteria that are not commonly found in yogurt. These include Lactobacillus
Caucasus, Leuconostoc, Acetobacter, and Streptococcus. Some research indicates that kefir can actually colonize the intestinal tract, creating beneficial probiotics that are efficient at resisting intestinal parasites and pathogens, such as E. coli. Kefir also contains highly beneficial yeasts. Some have touted kefir as being one of the most potent probiotic foods available. According to a 2011 article in the Journal of Dairy Science, the healthy bacteria in kefir can improve digestive issues and also may help in treating colitis by regulating the inflammatory response of cells in the intestines. Furthermore, components in kefir may play other roles in allergic response and inflammation as they relate to immune system disorders. Many stores now stock kefir in their dairy departments alongside milk, cheese and yogurt. Those who cannot find kefir can make their own quite easily. Kefir grains can be purchased online and then mixed with dairy products of one’s choosing. Kefir also can be made from “alternative” milk sources for those who have lactose intolerance. Soy, almond and coconut milks also can be used to provide many of the probiotic benefits found in dairy kefir. Kefir can be added to smoothies, cereals or consumed as-is. It also can be made into kefir cheese. Many people find it easy to substitute kefir for yogurt, sour cream and even buttermilk in some recipes. A good source of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and other compounds that can improve intestinal and overall health, kefir may is a dairy product worth considering.
295916-1
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 11
Alzheimer’s Disease: Planning For An Unknown Future
(NAPS)—If someone you care about is ever diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you should know you’re not alone. Some 5.4 million Americans have the condition now and, as the U.S. population ages, many more individuals are likely to be diagnosed. It’s estimated the number of people age 65 or older with Alzheimer’s disease will increase as much as 40 percent by 2025 and triple by 2050, barring any medical breakthroughs to prevent or cure the disease. What You Should Know A few facts and figures may help you better cope with the condition. Alzheimer’s disease has a distinct gender bias: The majority of its victims are women. Women are twice as likely as men to develop the disease and, once they have it, are far more vulnerable to its effects. Female longevity was once thought to be responsible for this disparity, but recent medical research suggests that biological, genetic and even cultural influences may play significant roles. Currently, there is no way to prevent or cure Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals typically live eight to 10 years after they are diagnosed and there are progressive stages of Alzheimer’s disease, so as time passes, small losses in memory and judgment advance to profound intellectual and social impairment. In the last stage, physical function is reduced as well, ultimately leading to death.
As this disease runs its course, Alzheimer’s patients may require increasing levels of assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing and eating. Further, Alzheimer’s patients are often unaware of their surroundings and potentially dangerous situations. To maintain the safety of these people, increased supervision is required. Most of the care is custodial, not medical, and belong in the category known as long-term care. Long-term care provided by a facility can be expensive and is generally not covered by traditional health plans or Medicare. If you have a low income and limited resources, Medicaid may help pay medical costs but you are required to meet state poverty criteria. Paying out of pocket is one way to cover long-term care expenses. However, you should consider the cost. Alzheimer’s disease requires lifetime care. In 2013, the national average cost of a semiprivate room in a nursing home was $82,855 annually. Home care is generally more affordable than nursing home care but still costly. When averaged nationally, the cost of a six-hour visit by a home health aide is $120 per day. That’s $31,200 per year for a home health aide visiting five hours per day, five days a week. Informal care can be provided at home by a relative or friend, but there may be a significant physical and emotional cost for
12 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
these informal caregivers. Caring for an individual with Alzheimer’s disease is difficult and the demands can be unrelenting. Caregivers commonly suffer from chronic stress, which can compromise their own physical and psychological health as well as their most intimate family relationships. Often, these caregivers leave the workplace or step out of a chosen career path to meet increasing care needs. This can have profound implications for personal finances both short and long term. It’s also important to remember that the need for long-term care can arise from an accident, illness or injury at any age. Although no one can be certain that he or she will develop Alzheimer’s disease, planning now can help to reduce financial and emotional stress on your family. What Can Be Done Fortunately for many, the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) offers protection and support when it’s needed the most. The FLTCIP can help pay for personal care and other related services provided on an extended basis to people who need help with everyday activities or who need supervision due to a severe cognitive impairment. It provides comprehensive coverage, regardless of whether you receive care at home, in an assisted living facility (including specialized care for persons living with
Alzheimer’s disease) or in a nursing home. Additionally, family members and friends can provide care as informal caregivers. Many members of the federal family are eligible to apply for coverage under the FLTCIP, including federal and U.S. Postal Service employees and annuitants, as well as active and retired members of the uniformed services. Qualified relatives such as spouses, domestic partners, parents and parents-in-law, and adult children are also eligible to apply. For a complete eligibility list, visit www.LTCFEDS.com/eligibility. Because the FLTCIP is medically underwritten, it’s important to apply when you are in good health to avoid the risk that a future illness or condition may prevent you from obtaining coverage later. Also, premiums are directly related to age. This means the younger people are when they apply for coverage, the lower their premium. Learn More For further information, visit www.LTCFEDS.com. For personalized assistance, call (800) LTC-FEDS ( (800) 5823337)/TTY (800) 843-3557 to speak with a program consultant. They’ll answer your questions and walk you step by step through the plan design and application process. The best time for you or your family members to consider long-term care insurance is long before you need it.
Christmas Roasted Vegetables Courtesy of allrecipes.com
Ingredients 1 large butternut squash - peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces 1 large delicata squash - peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces 3 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1inch pieces 1 (2 pound) rutabaga, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces 2 red potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces 2 carrots, sliced 1 large onion, sliced 2 tablespoons dried rosemary 2 tablespoons dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried oregano 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 6 dried bay leaves 1 dash lemon juice 1 dash red wine vinegar 1 pinch salt 1 pinch ground black pepper
Directions Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Mix butternut squash, delicata squash, sweet potato, rutabaga, and red potato pieces, carrots, and onion in a large roasting pan. Mix rosemary, thyme, and oregano in a small bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with herb mixture; toss to coat vegetables with oil and herbs. Scatter bay leaves over vegetables and drizzle lemon juice and red wine vinegar over the top. Roast in the preheated oven until vegetables are tender, about 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring every 30 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 13
Antibiotics Aren't Always the Answer
Antibiotics do not fight infections caused by viruses like colds, flu, most sore throats, bronchitis, and many sinus and ear infections. Instead, symptom relief might be the best treatment option for viral infections. Get smart about when antibiotics are needed—to fight bacterial infections. When you use antibiotics appropriately, you do the best for your health, your family's health, and the health of those around you. Taking antibiotics for viral infections, such as colds, flu, most sore throats, bronchitis, and many sinus or ear infections: • Will not cure the infection • Will not keep other people from getting sick • Will not help you or your child feel better • May cause unnecessary and harmful side effects • May contribute to antibiotic resistance, which is when bacteria are able to resist the effects of an antibiotic and continue to cause harm Rest, fluids, and over-thecounter products may be your or your child's best treatment option against viral infections. Remember–there are potential risks when taking any prescription drug. Unneeded antibiotics may lead to harmful side effects and future antibiotic-resistant infections.
What to Do Just because your healthcare professional doesn't give you an antibiotic doesn't mean you aren't sick. Talk with your healthcare professional about the best treatment for your or your child's illness. To feel better when you or your child has a viral infection: • Ask your healthcare professional about over-thecounter treatment options that may help reduce symptoms. • Drink more fluids. • Get plenty of rest. • Use a cool-mist vaporizer or saline nasal spray to relieve congestion. • Soothe your throat with crushed ice, sore throat spray, or lozenges. (Do not give lozenges to young children.) • If you are diagnosed with the flu, there are flu antiviral drugs that can be used to treat flu illness. They are prescription drugs. What Not to Do • Do not demand antibiotics when your healthcare professional says they are not needed. • Do not take an antibiotic for a viral infection. • Do not take antibiotics prescribed for someone else. The antibiotic may not be right for your illness. Taking the wrong medicine may delay correct treatment and allow
bacteria to grow. If your healthcare professional prescribes an antibiotic for a bacterial infection: • Do not skip doses. • Do not stop taking the
14 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
COURTESY OF CDC.GOV
antibiotics early unless your healthcare professional tells you to do so. • Do not save any of the antibiotics for the next time you or your child gets sick.
New Ways To Protect Your Children’s Eyesight Year-Round (NAPS)—If your family is like most, a few facts on sunlight and eyesight could be illuminating. The Importance Of Eye Protection First, you should know that the average child’s eyes get about three times as much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays as do the average adult’s. There are several reasons for this. For one thing, children are more likely than adults to be outdoors, especially in the summer and on snowy days, and sand, snow and water reflect UV light and increase the need for protection. For another, children’s eyes are even more sensitive to UV rays than adults’ because they are clearer and more delicate and their pupils are larger and let far more light through than adults’ eyes. Exposure to UV radiation can lead to keratitis in children; that is, an inflammation of the cornea that causes pain and itchiness. According to the experts at the World Society of Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, “shielding children’s eyes from excessive ambient UV radiation in direct and reflected sunlight is extremely important. Whenever outside, appropriate UVA/Bblocking protective lenses in well-fitted, safe frames are
valuable for all; particularly in the younger child, adolescent and those who are geographically or medically at higher risk. The lenses should block at least 99 percent of UVA/B light and meet local protection standards. Polarized lenses often provide greater comfort from glare, especially for light-sensitive children.” An Answer To help parents take care of their children’s eyes, the Polaroid Sunglasses brand created a free UV app called the Polaroid UV Alert app that measures UV radiation. Available from Apple’s App Store—designed for iPhones and the Apple Watch—and also compatible with iPads and iPod Touch, it is aimed to alert users when radiation reaches dangerous levels and offers information on polarized lenses and lens technology, including directions on where to purchase high-quality Polaroid polarized sunglasses. A Problem Unfortunately, most people don’t pay enough attention to eye protection and are not aware of the harmful effects of UV rays. Only half the population thinks that sunglasses are a must-have accessory to protect the eyes from harmful solar radiation, and more than 30 percent of
them say they rarely wear sunglasses. Perhaps because of this deficiency of awareness, product quality is not behind most sunglass purchase: 57 percent of customers buy sunglasses only for style and 28 percent based on price, while only 15 percent make informed choices based on lens quality and UV protection level. How To Choose Sunglasses Wearing sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV rays and up to 96 percent of blue light is a simple, safe and cost-effective way to protect the eyes. Although lens color and shading are not indicators of the sunglasses’ UV-blocking ability, different lens colors offer different advantages: • Yellow: good for skiing or low-light situations, such as fog, as they increase contrast though they can cause color distortion; • Amber/Brown: good for nearsighted people; • Light Blue/Green: best suited for farsighted people. The level of eye protection depends mainly on the lens filter and material. For example, Polaroid Sunglasses’ UltraSight polarized lenses let less than 1 percent of UV rays pass through up to 400 nanometers, exceeding the protection available in most other sunglass lenses. UV400 lenses block all harmful UVA, UVB and UVC rays, eliminate glare and provide crisp, correct vision and accurate color perception. The core element is the polarizing light filter. UV light absorbers and shockabsorbing layers are fused to both sides of the lens so it’s light, flexible and impact resistant. A scratch-resistant layer on both the outer surfaces completes the lens structure. The company is a worldwide leader in eye care and optics and a pioneering international eye-wear brand that owes its name to the invention of polarized lenses, changing the world of technology and optics. Said Luisa Delgado, CEO of
Safilo Group, the fully integrated Italian eyewear creator and worldwide distributor of Polaroid, as well as several other well-known brands of sunglasses, optical frames and sports eyewear, “We are committed to protecting children’s and adults’ eyes from the sun’s damaging rays. Our eyes need to be equally protected from the sun as does our skin and UVfiltering lenses are of the utmost importance for children in particular.” Polaroid Sunglasses for adults and children are available at better optical, department store and sunglass specialty retailers and can be found online at solsticesunglasses.com and dillards.com. Learn More For further facts and eye care and eyewear advice, go to polaroideyewear.com/kids, www.polaroideyewear.com and https://itunes.apple.com/us/app /polaroid-uvalert/id1007544164?mt=8. •A polarizing light filter keeps harmful UV rays out of kids’ eyes. •A handy app can help you tell how strong the sun is right where you are so you can protect your family. •The newest polarized sunglasses from Polaroid protect the eyes in a rainbow of colors.
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 15
Whole Body Cryotherapy Arrives at the Vereen Center
MOULTRIE, GEORGIA – The Vereen Rehabilitation Center is once again expanding it service line by offering access to a new state-of-the-art whole body cryotherapy chamber from Atlanta-based Impact Cryotherapy, a national leader in designing and manufacturing whole body cryotherapy systems. Cryotherapy is used worldwide by athletes and others to maintain fitness and increase energy. Whole body cryotherapy helps athletes to prepare for competition, recover faster from workouts and train harder. “The Vereen Center has distinguished itself as a premier provider of sports medicine and the addition of Cryotherapy to the services offered keeps us on the cutting-edge,” said Colquitt Regional CEO Jim Matney. “This is going to be great for athletes but it also has many benefits for patients of all ages and activity level that may be recovering from medical procedures or experiencing chronic joint pain.” Scott Romanowski, Director of Rehabilitation Services, said “At the Vereen Center we are always looking for a technique or modality that improves quality of patient care and also
Thomasville Tri-Athlete Melissa Thompson is shown receiving the new Cryotherapy treatment at the Vereen Center. Thompson is an accomplished Tri-Athlete competing in National races and she credits Cryotherapy with helping her stay on top of her training. differentiates us from the competition. The IMPACT Cryotherapy unit is exactly this type of device. I fully expect that folks from outside our traditional service area will come to Moultrie to experience
Whole Body Cryotherapy and help to make the Vereen Center a prime destination for health care.” So how does whole body cryotherapy work? The athlete stands inside the chamber
16 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
during treatment on an adjustable platform, which ensures their head remains outside the chamber. Patients wear only shorts and possibly a See Vereen, page 17
ALLERGY& ASTHMA CLINICS OF GEORGIA www.aacoga.com
)RRG $OOHUJLHV +LYHV Sinus/Respiratory Problems $VWKPD +D\ )HYHU Insect Allergies
light top, plus gloves and socks. The Impact Continued from page 16 Cryotherapy chamber is then filled with nitrogen vapor, which drops the temperature to a range of -100°C to -150°C and temporarily lowers the temperature of the skin’s top layer. This treatment lasts a maximum of three minutes. Once out of the chamber, the body immediately reheats. Whole body cryotherapy serves many purposes and is applicable and effective not only in an athletic population but for patients with arthritis, and those recovering from joint replacements or other injuries involving joints. Its main therapeutic goal is to reduce inflammation, pain, muscle soreness or swelling – that’s a goal that serves everyone
Vereen
Colquitt County Packer Nate Powell is pictured inside the cryotherapy chamber while Vereen Athletic Training Services Coordinator, Jaclyn Donovan, explains the process of the new therapy now available at the Vereen Center.
Providing quality healthcare to the residents of Central and Southwest Georgia (229) 438-7100
regardless of age or activity level. Additional benefits include toning the skin, improving sleep and managing chronic pain. The treatment is meant to stimulate the whole body's response by exposing the skin to hyper cooling. This cause the brain to trigger the body's natural healing process, forcing it into “fight or flight” mode and flushing fresh, oxygenated blood out to extremities. Extreme cold has been used to treat inflammation for centuries; that’s the idea behind immersing the body in an ice bath. In the 1970s in Japan, cryotherapy treatments were used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, and that spread to Europe, which developed the whole body cryotherapy systems in use today. Impact Cryotherapy’s American-designed and Americanmanufactured system has quickly become the system of choice for professional athletic teams, including numerous recent installations in the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and NCAA. "We are very excited about our partnership with the Vereen Center”, say Impact Vice President of Sales Richard Lewis. “Originally developed to relieve pain and inflammation from arthritis, whole body cryotherapy (WBC) is cutting edge technology and its application continues to expand as more and more people experience the benefits. Used for rehabilitation, recovery, reducing inflammation, managing pain, and as part of a healthier lifestyle, WBC from IMPACT will provide a unique and valuable offering for the patrons at Vereen.” The Vereen Center’s cryotherapy system will be used as part of regular rehabilitation programs and will also be available as a cash pay service which will not require a physician’s referral. For more information on whole body cryotherapy at the Vereen Center, call (229)890-3553 or visit the Vereen Team online at www.VereenCenter.com.
269058-1
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 17
18 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
Pregnant? Get a Flu Shot!
If you're pregnant, a flu shot is your best protection against serious flu illness. A flu shot can protect pregnant women, their unborn babies, and even the baby after birth. The Flu and Pregnant Women If you're pregnant, a flu shot is your best protection against serious illness and complications from the flu. Flu is more likely to cause severe illness in pregnant women than in women who are not pregnant. Changes in the immune system, heart and lungs during pregnancy make pregnant women more prone to developing severe illness from flu, which can lead to hospitalization or even death. A pregnant woman sick with the flu also has a greater chance that her unborn baby will suffer serious problems, including premature labor and delivery. A flu shot can protect pregnant women, their unborn babies, and even the baby after birth. The Flu Shot is the Best Protection against Flu Getting a flu shot is the first and most important step in protecting against flu. When given during pregnancy, the flu shot has been shown to protect
during any trimester, The side effects that can occur from a flu shot, like soreness or redness where the shot is given, are very minor compared to the serious problems that flu illness could cause for pregnant women and their babies. It is very important for pregnant women to get the flu shot. Some pregnant women are worried about trace amounts of thimerosal in flu shots. Thimerosal is a mercurybased preservative that has been used for decades in the United States in multi-dose vials (vials containing more than one dose) of some vaccines to prevent their contamination with germs, bacteria and fungi. Some of the flu shots produced for the United States each flu season come in multi-dose vials, and contain thimerosal to safeguard against possible contamination of the vial once it is opened. Manufacturers also make single-dose flu shots without thimerosal. The single-dose units are made without thimerosal as a preservative because they are intended to be opened and used only once. While the most recent and rigorous scientific research shows that thimerosalcontaining vaccines are not harmful, if you are worried about thimerosal, just ask your
COURTESY OF CDC.GOV
both the mother and her unborn baby from serious flu-related complications. If you get vaccinated during pregnancy, your baby also is born with some flu antibodies that will help protect them from flu for up to 6 months after they are born. This is important because babies younger than 6 months can't get vaccinated yet, but they are at highest risk of being hospitalized from the flu. An additional way to protect your baby after birth is for all of the baby's caregivers and close contacts (including brothers and sisters, grandparents and babysitters) to also get vaccinated against the flu. You can get a flu shot during any trimester of your pregnancy. (Pregnant women should not get the nasal spray vaccine.) The Flu Shot is Safe for Pregnant Women Flu shots are a safe way to protect pregnant women and their unborn children from serious illness and complications of flu, like pneumonia. The flu shot has been given to millions of pregnant women over many years. Flu shots have not been shown to cause harm to pregnant women or their babies. The shot is safe to get
doctor or other health care professional for a thimerosalfree flu shot. Other Preventive Actions In addition to getting the flu shot, pregnant women should take additional everyday preventive actions. Early Treatment is Important for Pregnant Women If you get sick with flu-like symptoms, call your doctor right away. If needed, the doctor will prescribe an antiviral medicine that treats the flu. Having a fever caused by flu infection or other infections early in pregnancy can lead to birth defects in an unborn child. Pregnant women who get a fever should contact their doctor as soon as possible. When to Seek Emergency Medical Care If you have any of these signs, call 911 right away: • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen • Sudden dizziness • Confusion • Severe or persistent vomiting • High fever that is not responding to Tylenol® (or store brand equivalent) • Decreased or no movement of your baby
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 19
20 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
How to help students who need speech therapy COURTESY OF METROCONNECTION
Parents who are active in their children's education often find that such an approach is a great way to recognize any potential problems before they have too significant an impact on a student's educational experience. For example, interaction with educators may shed light on a student's developmental readiness. Parents often first learn of their children's strengths and shortcomings when children are exposed to classroom settings and compared to their fellow students. It is here where teachers may first recognize obstacles that could hinder students as they pursue their education. Parents of preschool and kindergarteners may be made aware of speech issues that may require therapy to address. The good news is that children often make tremendous strides once they are enrolled in speech therapy. Although determining if a child needs speech therapy can sometimes be confusing and take some effort and testing, parents who receive such a diagnosis about their youngster will need to focus on some skills that can alleviate speech concerns. Articulation Many children require speech therapy because of a speech delay or an issue with articulating. This relates to the clarity of speech sounds and overall speech. A child's speech begins with initial sounds as they mimic the adults around them, which will then form words and phrases. It's common for young children who have difficulty with certain speech sounds to substitute easier sounds for certain letters or sound blends. But if inconsistent speech articulation or improper sound usage extends beyond a certain age, this may require treatment.
Fluency and resonance Some children receive speech therapy due to disorders like stuttering or prolonging sounds and syllables. When the flow of speech is interrupted by abnormal stoppages or repetition, this can be distracting to both the child and those around him or her. Some children have problems with the pitch, volume or quality of their voice. These problems can distract listeners from what's being said and make it difficult to communicate. Apraxia According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing
Association, childhood apraxia of speech, or CAS, is a motor speech disorder. Children with CAS have problems saying sounds, syllables and words. The brain has difficulty moving the mouth for speech. The child knows what he or she wants to say, but the brain does not send the correct message to move the muscles accordingly. Children with CAS are typically assessed earlier than school age. Seeking therapy Parents who suspect their child has a speech-language concern should first consult with a pediatrician and talk to their child's teacher. If the speech problem is not causing any learning difficulty or making it hard for teachers and fellow students to understand the child, intervention may not be necessary. However, if the child is embarrassed or getting frustrated with those who do not understand him or her, it may be in the student's best interest to be assessed. Speech-language pathologists are trained in speech therapy and are most qualified to make assessments of a child's speech abilities.
This person will provide a thorough articulation assessment and conduct a medical history inquiry to determine if there is a need for treatment. A good speech pathologist will conduct an evaluation in a way that is comfortable for the child. Toys and games may be part of the assessment. Sometimes parents are allowed to remain in the room. Physical skills, vocabulary and grammar also will be checked. Once the source of the problem has been identified, a therapist can develop a treatment plan to fix some of the problems. Homework exercises can help parents continue lessons between therapy sessions. Many parents opt to work with a speech-language pathologist one-on-one. These services may be covered through a health insurance plan. School districts may offer low- or no-cost speech therapy for students who need speech assistance. These may be conducted in solo sessions or as part of a group. Parents should inquire about speech testing at their child's school and if any services are offered.
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 21
BELLY FAT IS BAD, EVEN AT A NORMAL WEIGHT
When pounds collect around the middle, risk of premature death rises, study finds
By Steven Reinberg HealthDay Reporter MONDAY, Nov. 9, 2015 (HealthDay News) -- Can belly fat be a problem even for people who aren't overweight? New research says yes, excess weight around the middle boosts the risk of premature death even for people considered normal weight. What's more, normal weight people with excess stomach fat had an even higher risk of dying early than overweight or obese people did, according to new research published online Nov. 10 in the Annals of Internal Medicine. "Belly fat is bad fat," said Dr. Paul Poirier, from the Institute of Cardiology at Laval University in Quebec, Canada, and the author of an accompanying editorial in the same issue of the journal. Stomach fat has been linked to high cholesterol, inflammation, heart disease, stroke and diabetes, he explained. "When you have fat around the belly, it's a lot worse than having the same amount of fat around the hip," Poirier said. "If your weight is normal, but you have weight around the middle, it's bad. If you've got a belly above 40 inches for men and 34 inches for women, this is obesity [even if your weight measurements seem normal]," Poirier said. These people may not be obese from a weight perspective, but they are obese from a waist perspective, he said. For the study, a team led by Dr. Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, a professor of medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., used data from a national survey to compare the risk of premature death among more than 15,000 adults. The mean follow-up time was 14 years. The researchers looked at body mass index (BMI), a rough estimate of body fat based on weight and height measurements. They also looked at waist-to-hip ratios. The investigators found that normal weight adults with extra stomach fat had the worst longterm survival, regardless of BMI. And, normal weight men with bigger bellies seemed to fare even worse than slender women with more tummy fat. A normal weight male with more
22 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | December 2015
fat around the waist had an 87 percent increased risk of death during the study period compared to a man who was normal weight without extra belly fat. Compared to overweight or obese men (as measured solely by BMI, without specific waist size information), a normal weight man with extra belly fat had more than twice the risk of dying early, the study revealed. Normal weight women with extra belly fat had nearly a 50 percent increased risk of death during the study period versus a normal weight woman whose weight was more equally distributed throughout her body. Compared to obese women (measured by BMI only), the normal weight women with belly fat had a 32 percent higher risk of early death, the researchers found. Dr. David Katz, director of the Yale University Prevention Research Center, in New Haven, Conn., and president of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, said the study findings raise the question: who would have more belly fat and still be at a normal weight according to their BMI? Some people are more prone to depositing excess fat around the middle, he said. This can lead to fat accumulation in vital organs, especially the liver, he explained. Another group may be those who have excess body fat and illness, perhaps in early stages, causing loss of lean body mass, Katz said. Although it's not clear from this study how many people might fall into this category, he added. Regardless of why someone has gained weight around the middle, Katz said, "We have long known that all varieties of overweight are not created equal with regard to health risk, and that central obesity is the most concerning variety." In his editorial, Poirier wrote, "These new data provide evidence that clinicians should look beyond BMI. Although assessing for total fat mass with BMI to identify patients at greater cardiovascular risk is a good start, it is not sufficient." WebMD News from HealthDay Article Sources Copyright Š 2013-2015 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Taking Control Of Prescription Costs by Joe Sanginiti, President and COO of FamilyWize.org (NAPS)—The changing landscape of the U.S. health care system has resulted in rising costs for prescription medications, causing a real health and financial burden for many Americans. Here are four easy ways consumers can save at the pharmacy: 1. Research pharmacy prescription costs One thing that many consumers don’t realize is that pharmacy prices can vary— what you pay for your medications at one pharmacy might be significantly different than what you would pay at another. Fortunately, there are a number of tools available, such as the FamilyWize Drug Price Lookup Tool, that allow consumers to check prices at different pharmacies. Many of these tools are available online or as an app, making it easy for consumers to scout out the best price and know the price of their prescriptions before going to the pharmacy. 2. Go generic (if available) Generic drugs are copies of brand-name drugs that have exactly the same dosage,
intended use, effects, side effects, route of administration, risks, safety and strength as the original drug. In other words, their pharmacological effects are exactly the same as those of their brand-name counterparts. According to the Generic Pharmaceutical Association, generic medications can cost 30 to 80 percent less than their brand-name counterparts. Therefore, consumers should ask their doctor if their medication has a generic equivalent, or ask their pharmacist if the medication is available in a generic form. 3. Use prescription savings cards In 2014, the FamilyWize Prescription Savings Card saved consumers an average of 42 percent off retail prescription costs, or an average of $29.14 per prescription. Although all prescription savings cards have one common goal— saving consumers money on their medications—they each work differently and have their own set of requirements. Consumers should read the fine print on each card to
Costly prescriptions, especially those related to chronic diseases, can cause financial hardship—but there are ways to cut costs without harming your health.
determine the best card for them, as some cards have eligibility requirements based on age, income, insurance and/or location. 4. Shop smart. Save smart. According to Consumer Reports, other ways to save money on prescription drugs include trying over-the-counter products first for certain common, mild conditions. For others, only try them after consulting with your physician. Only take products you need. For example, avoid multisymptom cold remedies that may include unnecessary ingredients and increase risk for side effects. • Some major chain drugstores, big-box stores and club stores offer better discounts than insurance. • Paying cash may be cheaper. • Look for seasonal discounts, sales, special displays and smart-phone offers. • Understand how the new health care law affects you. If your insurance company no longer covers your medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist about less costly alternatives. Check out your
insurer’s preferred pharmacy or mail-order service to get the best prices. Be willing to consider “step therapy” for your condition, starting with less expensive, older treatments before switching to newer therapies. See if you can reduce the number of medicines you take by making lifestyle changes that have a positive impact on your health. Finally, ask your physician and pharmacist to review your medicines regularly. Costly prescriptions, especially those related to chronic diseases, can cause financial hardship for individuals and families. Consumers can be smart shoppers at the pharmacy, just like they are at the grocery store. By using prescription savings cards, researching pharmacy prescription costs and using generics, when possible, consumers can save money and ensure they are getting the best price on their medications. Taking medications exactly as prescribed is important, and by shopping smart and saving smart, consumers can also be smart about their health and their wallet.
December 2015 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 23
If you suffer from
Sleep Apnea
Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an alternative to the mask.
At Sleep Apnea Treatment Centers of America, we offer a safe, effective alternative to traditional sleep apnea treatments. You can be treated and even
have your sleep apnea cured
with our minimally invasive Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) procedure
In just minutes.
United Healthcare Partners Medicare Approved
295912-1
CureMySleepApnea.com