V5N1
EXERCISES FOR
Awesome Arms
FRIENDS:
Keeping It Real
BOOMERS
Going Strong
WHAT YOU’RE SAYING ABOUT TRISTAR
Connecting With You Thank you Summit ER for your kind care this morning. My allergic reaction scared me but you fixed it and made me feel less frightened. Great crew. —Linda S., TriStar Summit Medical Center Facebook page
TriStar is everywhere you live, work and play. This issue, get to know Ann Kuklinski, PBX and Volunteer Coordinator. WHAT OR WHO INSPIRES YOU? The Holy Spirit—He shows up in the person(s) of my sister Jane and her husband Owen, and my best friend Mary. I also encounter Him on a daily basis with the people I work with. Sometimes a person has to listen really hard!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY? Going to midnight mass and coming out of church into a white world sparkling in the moonlight.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK, BAND, FOOD OR PASTIME?
Little Women—I always wanted to be Jo, the writer—then I graduated to Gone With the Wind. Now of course, I read Scripture daily.
WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE FICTIONAL MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL? The doc on Little House on the Prairie
INSIDE THIS CONNECT
HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN WITH HCA/TRISTAR? This is my thirteenth year.
Support local farms and your health. Learn more about the benefits of farm-fresh food.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? The interaction with the people—including all the callers (I am an old phone lady!), the staff, visitors, patients and my volunteers. I especially like being on the Spiritual Committee and being able to pray with people.
IF YOU COULD TRADE PLACES WITH ANY OTHER EMPLOYEE IN THE HOSPITAL, WHO WOULD IT BE?
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There are two: the chaplain and Peggy Peeler, Executive Assistant to the CEO at TriStar Summit.
IF YOU COULD INVENT A “MAGIC PILL,” WHAT EFFECT WOULD IT HAVE? The father of cardiac catheterization tested the technology on himself first. See more milestones in “A History of Heart Healthcare.”
6 Don’t let cancer sneak up on you. Regular screenings keep these “silent killers” in check.
10 Does eating chocolate cause acne? Find out more in “Zapping Zit Myths.”
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People would be infused with love and compassion, living peaceful lives.
IF YOU WERE ANONYMOUSLY SITTING AT A COFFEE SHOP AND OVERHEARD PEOPLE TALKING ABOUT TRISTAR SUMMIT, WHAT WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO HEAR THEM SAY? “Not only did I get quality care while in the hospital, but the staff and doctors were the most kind and gracious that I had ever encountered. They treated me and my family with respect. I will definitely use them again and will tell all my friends.” ARE YOU AT RISK FOR CHRONIC DISEASE? FIND OUT NOW!
Visit
TriStarHealth.com/MyStrokeRisk to take our FREE online Stroke Risk Assessment.
Visit
TriStarHealth.com for average ER wait times at a TriStar facility near you, or text “ER” to 23000. In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
Visit
TriStarHealth.com/MyHeartRisk to take our FREE online Heart Risk Assessment.
TriStar connect is a lifestyle magazine that connects you to TriStar Health—and our extensive network of care providers. Combined, we have 18 facilities in Middle Tennessee and South Central Kentucky, all supported by approximately 5,300 physicians and nearly 13,000 employees who are all dedicated to a common vision and commitment to quality patient care. TO SUBSCRIBE OR UNSUBSCRIBE, WRITE TO: connect Magazine, TriStar Health, 5600 Brainerd Road, Suite 1, Chattanooga, TN 37411 or call 800-624-7496.
THIS PUBLICATION IN NO WAY SEEKS TO SERVE AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL CARE. CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN BEFORE UNDERTAKING ANY FORM OF MEDICAL TREATMENT OR ADOPTING ANY EXERCISE PROGRAM OR DIETARY GUIDELINES.
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EASY EXERCISES FOR
AWESOME ARMS Warmer weather is quickly approaching. Are your arms ready for the big reveal?
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ith spring—and short-sleeve tees, tank tops and sleeveless dresses—on the horizon, it’s time to start whipping those arms into shape. The following exercises target common trouble spots, including your chest, biceps, triceps and shoulders. Plan to perform eight to 12 repetitions of each move at least twice a week.
exercise 1: plank push-ups TARGETS THE CHEST AND TRICEPS Start in plank position—according to the American Council on Exercise, your hands should be shoulder-width apart and flat on the floor, while your spine, head and hips should be level with the floor. Lower your arms until your elbows form 90-degree angles, return to plank position and repeat. For an added bonus to tone core muscles, hold plank position for one minute before beginning the push-ups.
exercise 2: biceps curl TARGETS THE BICEPS For this exercise, you’ll need two dumbbells—5-pound weights are a great starting choice. Holding one dumbbell in each hand, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Turn your palms forward and bend your elbows, curling the weights toward your upper arms. Straighten your arms and repeat.
exercise 3: shoulder press TARGETS THE SHOULDERS Stand with one 5-pound dumbbell in each hand. Your feet should be hip-width apart, with your elbows bent, palms turned in and weights positioned in front of your shoulders. Alternate lifting your left and right arms toward the ceiling. TONING SAFELY
You may have heard using lighter weights for more reps will build muscle, not bulk. Not true! Choose the heaviest weight you can lift and still perform the exercises correctly to achieve muscle fatigue by the end of each set. Consider working with a trainer to ensure you’re using proper form, and allow your muscles to rest 48 hours between exercise sessions. F I N D A D O C // TriStar MedLine® // 800-242-5662 // 615-342-1919
The Art of Flattery Toning your arms is only one component of red-carpetworthy style. Choose the most flattering sleeve using theses tips: • Avoid any style that hits at the widest part of your arm. • Choose sleeveless over cap sleeves, which can make arms appear larger. • Half, three-quarter or long sleeves flatter most shapes. • Bell-shaped sleeves give the illusion of thinner arms. • Raglan sleeves lengthen arms and fit large shoulders well. • If you’re going sleeveless, draw attention away from lessthan-trim upper arms by choosing a top with wide straps or a V-neck.
eating local
B U , T H S IS E R I F
T
IT’ S
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H S E FR
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a t re n d . n a h t e r o m ent is m e v o m le b a t The farm-toting. a e y h lt a e h o r o a ch t p p a le b a in a t It’s a sus
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arm-to-table is a model of food consumption that emphasizes choosing locally grown produce and pasture-raised meat and dairy products rather than store-bought items. The movement is catching on in cities all across the country, but it’s not a new concept. Proponents of the farm-to-table movement are trying to return to the way food was bought and sold before large-scale agriculture and food production became the norm.
this land is your land
have a cow, man
But how much of a difference does it really make whether you buy your groceries at a supermarket or directly from the farmer? Quite a big one, actually—especially when it comes to meat and poultry. Pasture-raised means the livestock are allowed to graze and eat their natural diet. According to the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service, pasture-based farming conserves soil and water, supports proper plant and animal genetics, contributes to biodiversity and preserves the natural ecological connections between animals and their natural surroundings. In other words, pasture farming keeps the soil healthy, the animals happy and the environment clean.
The consumer benefits, too. Researchers in the Department of Animal Science at Texas A&M University performed comparative studies on grass-fed versus grain-fed beef and found that grass-fed beef contains more than twice the amount of omega-3 fatty acids. It also lowered bad HDL cholesterol in men with slightly high cholesterol levels (grain-fed beef actually increased it). As with grain-fed beef, it’s important to choose leaner cuts of grass-fed beef, which will have less saturated fat and cholesterol.
good growing
taking steps toward
Part of the goal behind the farm-to-table movement is to reduce the amount of time between when produce is picked from the fields and when it ends up on your dinner plate. That allows farmers to pick fruits and vegetables closer to their peak of ripeness, which is when they hold the most flavor and nutrition. When you buy produce directly from a local farmer, it will not only taste better, but also be better for you.
conscientious consuming
To schedule an appointment with a nutritionist who can help you develop a healthy eating plan, call TriStar MedLine® at 615-342-1919 or 800-242-5662, or visit us at TriStarSummit.com.
Butter from grass-fed cows is also healthier. Pasture butter contains higher levels of certain nutrients, such as vitamin A, vitamin E, beta-carotene and omega-3s. Most people who cook with pasture butter will tell you it tastes better, too.
Wondering how to support the farm-to-table movement? The best thing you can do is to buy more of your groceries directly from local farmers through a farmers market or community supported agriculture (CSA) program. You can also look for meat products that feature the 5-Step Animal Welfare Rating. Developed by the Global Animal Partnership (GlobalAnimalPartnership.org), the 5-Step program encourages improvements in welfare practices and animal agriculture. Each step has its own requirements that meat producers must meet. Their products are then packaged with a distinct label noting which step level was achieved.
Count on It
Regular checkups with your primary care provider help you keep track of important health numbers. Once you know your numbers, you can reduce your risk for chronic diseases by lowering your numbers through simple lifestyle changes—for instance, eating more farm-fresh fruits and veggies. Ranges for healthy numbers include: • Body mass index: <25 • Cholesterol: <180 mg/dL • Waist size: <37 inches (men); <31.5 inches (women) • Blood pressure: <130/80 mm Hg To find a primary care provider who can measure your numbers, visit TriStarSummit.com.
F I N D A D O C // TriStar MedLine® // 800-242-5662 // 615-342-1919
ABCs of CSAs
Community supported agriculture (CSA) programs are the simplest way to get involved in the farm-to-table movement. When you join a CSA, you sign up for a certain number of “shares,” which are often boxes of seasonal fruits and vegetables. For each share you purchase, you receive a weekly bundle of freshly picked produce throughout the growing season. Farmers benefit by having more cash flow upfront. You benefit by getting the freshest possible ingredients for your family dinners. CSAs in Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky include: • Allenbrooke Farms (Spring Hill, TN) • Beaverdam Creek Farm (Centerville, TN) • Bountiful Blessings Farm (Williamsport, TN) • Bugtussle Farm (Gamaliel, KY) • Delvin Farms (College Grove, TN) • Doe Run Farm (Petersburg, TN) • Eaton’s Creek Organics (Joelton, TN) • Flying S Farms (Woodbury, TN) • Fresh Harvest, LLC (Bon Aqua, TN) • Green Door Gourmet (Nashville, TN) • Hill and Hollow Farm (Edmonton, KY) • Long Hungry Creek Farm (Red Boiling Springs, TN) • Paradise Produce (Nashville, TN) • Peaceful Pastures (Hickman, TN) • Rocky Glade Farm (Eagleville, TN) • Walnut Hills Farm (Bethpage, TN) Visit LocalHarvest.org/csa to find a CSA near you.
DID YOU KNOW? Tennessee was the first state to place its agricultural department on an actual farm—Nashville’s Ellington Agricultural Center. You can visit the agricultural center, and many other local farms, on your journey to becoming an “agritourist.” Learn more at TNVacation.com/Agritourism.
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get out+ wellness health We often take for granted that heart disease can be detected with a simple blood pressure cuff or that a heart attack can be treated with a thin, noninvasive catheter (small, flexible tube). Let’s take a look back at how heart procedures have changed through the years.
Just Call 911
Heart care has come a long way since sutures were placed on stillbeating hearts, but advanced medical techniques work best when you receive timely care for a heart attack. Don’t drive yourself and never ignore the following symptoms: • Chest pain, pressure or squeezing • Difficulty breathing • Lightheadedness and nausea • Pain and stiffness in the jaw, lower back or arms
A History of Heart Health September 9, 1896— Heart surgery was first performed when a German physician sutured a wound in the heart of a young soldier.
1900
1943—Captain Dwight Harken developed a technique to remove shrapnel from the still-beating hearts of the wounded.
1920
1940
1928—Physician Werner Forssmann inserted a 65-centimeter catheter into a vein in his arm until he felt the right atrium. He then walked down to the hospital basement to get an X-ray, which revealed the catheter tip had reached the inner chamber of his heart.
1953—John Gibbon Jr. successfully operated on a human patient using his new machine that circulated blood for the heart. This first attempt at a bypass using a heart and lung machine was primitive—advanced versions were not in widespread use until the 1970s. This was a hugely important development in cardiac surgery.
1958—The diagnostic coronary angiogram was discovered by Mason Sones. This discovery allows for selective imaging of the heart and diagnosis of coronary heart disease.
1950
1960
September 2, 1952—Two surgeons at the University of Minnesota used hypothermia to perform the first open-heart surgery on a five-yearold girl who had a hole in her heart. Because the cold allowed her to survive 10 minutes without blood in her heart, the physicians were able to repair the heart defect, and the surgery was a success.
1956—Werner Forssmann, André Frédéric Cournand and Dickinson W. Richards shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their pioneering work in developing catheters for the treatment of coronary heart disease.
C O N N E C T \\ V5N1 \\ TriStar Summit Medical Center \\ TriStarHealth.com/connect
health + wellness \\ 7 Leaders in Heart Care
Look to TriStar Summit Medical Center for comprehensive cardiology services right in your community. From advanced cardiac imaging technology to state-of-the-art catheterization labs, TriStar Summit delivers a range of services to help prevent, diagnose, treat and recover from heart disease and stroke. In an emergency, choose our Accredited Chest Pain Center for lifesaving treatment close to home. With a team of experienced cardiologists, TriStar Summit is passionately dedicated to keeping your heart beating at its best.
Putting Your Safety First
ADVANCED HEART CARE...CLOSE TO HOME Centennial Heart at Summit has recently opened a second location in Mt. Juliet to better serve you! Dr. Donald Crumbo, M.D., is proud to serve the Wilson County community with state-of-the-art heart care, right in your neighborhood. NEW: MT. JULIET LOCATION TriStar Summit Medical Plaza 660 S. Mt. Juliet Road, Suite 120 Mt. Juliet, TN 37122
hcare
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 615-889-1968.
March 28, 1986—In France, the first coronary stent was placed into a patient. This revolutionary device prevented the renarrowing of the arteries after an angioplasty.
December 3, 1967—The first effective human heart transplant was performed by surgeon Christiaan Barnard in South Africa. The patient died 18 days after the procedure, but the initial success of the procedure spurred further research into the possibility of human heart transplants.
1970
November 30, 1967—René Favaloro, MD, performs the first vein graft, or bypass surgery, to repair a coronary artery blockage. Today, this is one of the most widely performed surgeries in the world.
1980
1994—The Palmaz-Schatz BalloonExpendable Stent was approved by the Food and Drug Administration to unblock arteries. The stainless steel device allowed better outcomes than simple balloon angioplasty.
1990
1980—Cyclosporine, derived from a fungus in Norway, was used as a powerful immunosuppressant. The new drug was able to control organ rejection without completely removing all resistance to infections. Norman Shumway, an American surgeon, used the new drug to perform transplant operations in which patients survived as many as five years after the procedure.
F I N D A D O C // TriStar MedLine® // 800-242-5662 // 615-342-1919
2000
January 21, 2005— Doctors performed the first minimally invasive coronary bypass surgery, allowing patients to have an arterial graft without cutting into the chest.
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women’s health
The Skinny on
Gestational Diabetes If you have been diagnosed with this form of diabetes, which can develop during pregnancy, don’t freak out. Here are the four things you need to know.
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Talk with your physician if you experience symptoms.
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Less than 10 percent of women develop gestational diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 9.2 percent of pregnant women experience gestational diabetes, a temporary form of diabetes that usually develops towards the end of the second trimester. The condition is most likely to occur in women who are overweight, older than 35 or who have a family history of diabetes.
Like Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes is characterized by high blood glucose levels, insulin resistance and irregular insulin production. As a result, women with gestational diabetes may experience: • Blurry vision • Excessive thirst • Fatigue • Frequent urination • I nfections of the bladder, skin and vagina • Nausea
3.
Untreated gestational diabetes can put mothers and babies at risk. Serious consequences include an increased risk of cesarean section, premature delivery and increased risk of neonatal death. A woman with gestational diabetes is likely to pass excess glucose to her baby through the placenta. This causes the baby to develop high blood glucose levels, make extra insulin and store excess energy in the body as fat, leading to a condition called macrosomia or “big body.” Babies with macrosomia are at risk of developing breathing problems, experiencing low blood glucose after leaving the womb and suffering from shoulder injuries during birth.
4.
Gestational diabetes can be effectively managed.
If you or an expectant mother you know tests positive for gestational diabetes, it is a cause for concern but not fear. A healthy diet and exercise plan, insulin therapy and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels of mother and baby are all effective ways to manage gestational diabetes.
Comprehensive Mother-Child Care
The TriStar Family of Hospitals offers a full complement of services and specialized equipment to meet the needs of moms-tobe and their babies during pregnancy and after delivery, including: • 24-hour parental access to infant unit • Birthing beds • Breastfeeding consultations • Epidural pain management, 24/7 • Family-centered education with a focus on sibling interaction • Fetal monitoring • Fully outfitted labor and delivery rooms • Level I, II and III neonatal intensive care units • Nursing support For more information about Maternity Services or for a physician referral, call TriStar MedLine® at 615-342-1919 or 800-242-5662, or visit us at TriStarSummit.com.
Expect the
emergency + care
UNEXPECTED No one looks forward to visiting the emergency department (ER), but it happens to families just like yours every day. A little advance planning can help make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
facts on file You might have every detail of your family’s medical histories memorized, but grandparents, babysitters and other caregivers might not. In case of emergency, make a list with the following information for each family member and keep it handy. • Allergic reactions to items such as medications, foods or latex • Contact information for primary care physicians and specialists • Current health conditions • Past major medical conditions or surgeries • Prescriptions, over-the-counter medications or dietary supplements, including the name, dosage and how often each one is taken
Emergency Care, Conveniently TriStar Health emergency services are available 24 hours a day, have locations available nearby, have the shortest wait times in the area and offer convenient self check-in. WHERE TO GO
Every TriStar ER is an Accredited Chest Pain Center and Primary Stroke Center. Dial 911 and ask to be taken to the closest TriStar ER.
ER insider tips • Got your ID? Check! To streamline the check-in process, be sure to bring your health insurance card and driver’s license or other photo ID. • Buddy up. If you are the one receiving emergency care, have a friend or family member accompany you. This person can help explain your condition to ER staff and help you stay calm and informed. • Tell it like it is. To help ER physicians diagnose your condition quickly and accurately, describe your illness or injury honestly and in as much detail as possible. • Ask questions. As your ER visit progresses, ask the staff to explain your diagnosis, the purpose of any tests or procedures, and what steps you should take next. • Be patient. ER patients are seen according to the severity of their symptoms (which may not be obvious to other patients), not in the order of arrival. Be prepared to wait a while for your turn. • Make yourself comfortable. Feel free to bring bottled water and snacks, a book, magazine or music player and headphones, a light jacket or sweater, and your child’s favorite blanket, toy or cuddly stuffed animal.
For more information or for a physician referral, call TriStar MedLine® at 615-342-1919 or 800-242-5662, or visit us at TriStarSummit.com.
F I N D A D O C // TriStar MedLine® // 800-242-5662 // 615-342-1919
WAIT TIMES
TriStar ERs have the shortest wait times in the area. Text “ER” to 23000 to receive average wait times at the three TriStar ERs nearest you. CHECK-IN KIOSKS
Convenient check-in kiosks are now located in all TriStar Health ER lobbies. To learn more, visit TriStarHealth.com/ service/er-check-in-kiosks.
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cancer + care
r e c n a C t e i Qu Did you know many forms of cancer show no symptoms until the disease is advanced? Learn why regular screenings are so important for keeping your health in check. the silent cervix More than 12,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer in the United States this year. For all stages of cervical cancer, the five-year survival rate is 68 percent. However, the five-year survival rate for the earliest stage of cervical cancer is 91 percent. Nearly half of cervical cancer cases are diagnosed at a late stage, when treatment options are limited and survival rates are lower. Early stage cervical cancer often has no symptoms. In later stages, abnormal bleeding or abdominal discharge may occur. Thankfully, cervical cancer is one of the easiest gynecologic cancers to detect early. A Pap test looks for abnormal cells on the cervix that may become cancer. All women between the ages of 21 and 65 should have Pap tests. Women of average risk should have one every three years, and women age 30 and older should be co-tested for human papilloma virus (HPV). One of the best ways to prevent cervical cancer is to get the HPV vaccine. While not all strains of HPV cause cervical cancer, virtually all cases of cervical cancer are caused by strains of HPV. According to the National Cancer Institute, HPV vaccination has the potential to reduce cervical cancer deaths by two-thirds. The vaccine is available for females and males as young as age 9.
find, detect, cure Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, with more than 50,000 people dying of the disease every year. Risk factors for colon cancer include: • Age. Those older than 50 are more likely to develop colorectal cancer, and the average age of diagnosis is 72. • Colon polyps. Growths called polyps found on the inner walls of the colon are often benign, but some can develop into cancer. • Diet and activity level. Physical inactivity and diets high in red and processed meats make you more likely to develop colon cancer. • Smoking. Long-term smoking increases your risk of dying from colon cancer. The gold standard for early detection of polyps and colon cancer is the colonoscopy. During this procedure, the patient is sedated while a physician uses a narrow, lighted tube to find and remove any polyps or cancerous lesions. Most people should have their first colonoscopy starting at age 50. Those with average risk only need to have a colonoscopy once every 10 years. C O N N E C T \\ V5N1 \\ TriStar Summit Medical Center \\ TriStarHealth.com/connect
Killers
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Ongoing Research for You Clinical trials evaluate the success of new drugs and treatment strategies to increase options for patients. Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI) is the largest community-based research program in the nation and sponsors oncology clinical trials at practices throughout the country. Thousands of patients are able to participate in clinical research—and receive new, innovate treatments—close to their homes. To learn more about clinical trials available at SCRI, call 877-691-7274.
Breathing Easy, Close to Home
beating breast cancer before it starts One in eight American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime. One of the most important ways to survive breast cancer is to diagnose and treat the condition as early as possible. When treated properly, breast cancer has a 100-percent survival rate for Stage 0 and Stage I, and a 93-percent survival rate when diagnosed at Stage II. The American Cancer Society recommends these three steps to increase your chances of early detection: 1. Monthly self-exams starting in your 20s. Once a month, examine your breasts for lumps, bumps or changes in shape. If you aren’t sure how to check your breasts, ask your healthcare provider to show you a systematic method. 2. Clinical breast exams every three years throughout your 20s and 30s. As part of a periodic well exam, women should have their breasts examined by a healthcare professional. Women should have a yearly clinical breast exam starting at age 40. 3. Mammograms every year starting at age 40. One of the most effective methods of finding breast cancer, mammograms are an imaging test to look for abnormal tissue.
Stay on track with regular screenings as advised by your primary care provider. For more information or for a physician referral, call TriStar MedLine® at 615-342-1919 or 800-242-5662, or visit us at TriStarSummit.com.
F I N D A D O C // TriStar MedLine® // 800-242-5662 // 615-342-1919
Lung cancer low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans can help detect the early stages of lung cancer in highrisk patients and reduce the mortality rate of lung cancer by 20 percent. You may qualify for a low-dose CT lung cancer screening if: • You are an adult age 55 to 80. • You have a 30 pack-year history (the equivalent of one pack a day for 30 years). • You are a current or former smoker.
ALL IN THE FAMILY
If you have a first-degree relative (mother, father or sibling) with cancer of any kind, discuss your family history with your healthcare provider. Many cancers run in families, and your history may require additional preventive measures.
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men + health
I’m Just Going Through a
ROUGH PATCH… Guys, depression isn’t something to be ignored, denied, toughed out or shrugged off—it’s a serious illness that affects millions of men, and it’s time to bring it out of the shadows.
T
he past three weeks have been stressful at work. That’s probably why I have so little energy and don’t feel like doing anything, even on weekends. I guess I’ve been a little short with Stacy and the kids lately, too. Nothing excites me anymore, but I’m just in a temporary funk, right? For more than 6 million American men, sadness, irritability, disinterest and fatigue aren’t passing feelings—they’re symptoms of depression, a psychological illness that, historically, has carried a stigma of shame and weakness for men. That attitude has produced a lot of silent suffering, so it’s time to flip the script—r eal men acknowledge depression and seek help, for themselves and the people who love and depend on them.
spotting the signs
Agents for Change
Did you know depression has a bright side? The illness is eminently treatable, and several therapeutic options exist. Start by discussing symptoms with your primary care physician, who may refer you to a mental health professional for additional evaluation and treatment. Mild-to-moderate depression may respond to antidepressant medication or psychotherapy that can help patients understand their feelings and depression triggers, develop coping strategies, and alter negative attitudes. A combination of medication and therapy often works best for individuals with major depression. Once treatment begins, you may be eager to see progress, but be patient—depression doesn’t develop overnight, and treating it takes time.
Both men and women may experience classic symptoms of depression, such as sadness, malaise, abnormal sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating and physical problems, such as headaches or stomach upset. Men with depression, however, are more likely than women to: • Abuse alcohol or drugs • Become angry, irritable or disinterested in work or hobbies • Dive deeper into work or other activities to avoid addressing their feelings • Exhibit risky behavior • Experience physical symptoms • Lose weight The hardest part of many men’s journeys with depression is recognizing and admitting the problem. After passing that crucial hurdle, men are ready to focus on the promise of treatment: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, more than 80 percent of individuals with severe depression have the potential to resume their normal lives with the help of treatment. For information about behavioral health services or for a physician referral, call TriStar MedLine® at 615-342-1919 or 800-242-5662, or visit us at TriStarSummit.com. C O N N E C T \\ V5N1 \\ TriStar Summit Medical Center \\ TriStarHealth.com/connect
G N I S P P H T A Z ZIT MY
kids + health
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and a — t n e velopm to separate e d t n e y dolesc alike. Read tion? a f o t di al par and adults n con i m k r s o n n s o is a n teen this comm i Acne e o for w about n o i cause t c rom fi fact f
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MYTH: EATING CHOCOLATE CAUSES ACNE. TRUTH: Rest easy and enjoy a piece of chocolate, because it doesn’t cause pimples. Some research suggests that carb-rich foods—such as bread, pasta and cake—can increase blood sugar levels and increase the skin’s oil production. A balanced approach to eating can keep your skin feeling and looking great.
MYTH: EXTRA CLEANSING CAN REDUCE BREAKOUTS. TRUTH: Too much of a good thing—even washing your face— could backfire. Teens should use a gentle cleanser with salicylic acid twice a day for clean, clear skin. Avoid harsh soaps, exfoliators or rough cloths when washing up, which could further irritate or inflame skin.
3. MYTH: REGULAR TANNING CAN HELP REDUCE ACNE BREAKOUTS. TRUTH: Being out in the sun or going to the tanning bed during the colder months can feel nice, but the sun and tanning bed’s warmth can dry out your teen’s skin. This could lead to skin working overtime to produce more oil, causing extra breakouts. Tanning can also put your teen at a greater risk for skin cancer later in life. Make sure he or she is using a sunscreen with sun protection factor of at least 15 even on overcast days.
4. MYTH: IT’S OKAY TO POP PIMPLES. TRUTH: It can be tempting to squeeze that red bump, but doing so could let the bacteria that’s causing it to linger or spread to other areas of the face. If your teen is adamant about reducing redness and swelling, try applying a warm compress to the inflamed area to encourage draining without scarring.
For more information or for a physician referral, call TriStar MedLine® at 615-342-1919 or 800-242-5662, or visit us at TriStarSummit.com. F I N D A D O C // TriStar MedLine® // 800-242-5662 // 615-342-1919
Flawless Skin at Any Age Most skin woes can be treated at home with a bit of TLC. If chronic acne, inflammation or dryness are plaguing your skin, it may be time to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. After examining the skin, the specialist may recommend certain topical or oral medications to treat the acne. For most people, regular visits to the dermatologist should begin in early adulthood, with annual checks for changes in the skin. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates most people have anywhere from 10 to 40 moles. Changes in your moles could be a sign of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Always report the following skin changes to your dermatologist or primary care physician: • Changes in skin color, size or texture • Growths larger than the size of a pencil eraser • Moles that itch or bleed
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staying active New Joints Keep You Moving If joint pain is slowing you down, it may be time to talk to a TriStar Summit orthopaedic specialist about joint replacement surgery. For many patients, replacing part or all of a damaged joint may be the best option for reducing discomfort and getting back the active lives they want to live. At TriStar Summit, orthopaedic specialists use minimally invasive techniques to help patients recover from joint replacement surgery quickly and with minimal scarring. If you are experiencing chronic joint pain, talk to your healthcare provider about a referral to an orthopaedic specialist.
i m a n u s T r e v Sil on the Move The number of marathon runners age 50 and older has nearly tripled since 1991, representing the fastest growing segment of marathoners.
R
unners tend to have fewer incidents of cardiovascular disease, dementia, cancer and depression as they age. With so many health benefits, it’s little wonder that running attracts health-conscious older adults. Running regularly boosts physical and mental well-being, increases and maintains bone density, and can even help you sleep better—something that has lasting health benefits all its own. Still, that doesn’t mean it’s easy to train for and run a marathon.
build up slowly If you’ve never run before, a marathon shouldn’t be your first race. Ease into running with a couch-to-5K training plan that uses intervals of walking and running to build up stamina. Be sure to get your physician’s OK before you begin. Recruiting a buddy or two to train with you can help you stick with it.
proceed with caution Running is hard on joints of all ages. As you get older, reduced bone mass and natural wear and tear from years of use may increase your risk for strain and injury. Approach training for a race of any distance as you would an investment. Don’t just run—diversify with core strengthening through cross training, flexibility exercises and plenty of low-impact exercise in the pool or on the bike. Other tips include: • Stretch properly before and after a run. • Wear a knee brace if it helps. • Give yourself plenty of time to recover post-run. Address any running-related injuries promptly. Check in with your healthcare provider regularly to help spot any overuse problems as soon as possible.
Run into trouble? Text “ER” to 23000 to receive average wait times at the three TriStar ERs nearest you.
relationships + you
// 15
FRIENDSHIP in the
Digital Age Keep Your Friends Close
As you work to manage your ever-expanding digital network, remember to take good care of your upclose-and-personal friendships. A few key gestures will remind your friends that you’re there when they need you. • Have her back. Keep secrets between the two of you and support your friend’s choices. • Celebrate the good times. Babies, houses, promotions and weddings are all occasions that call for excitement. Join in the joy! • Listen with your whole self. Don’t interrupt. Make eye contact and offer advice if he or she asks you to.
F I N D A D O C // TriStar MedLine® // 800-242-5662 // 615-342-1919
Thanks to social media, we have more “friends” than ever before. But how nurturing are these online connections, and what impact do they have on our face-to-face relationships?
F
or more than 20 years, Robin Dunbar, a University of Oxford anthropologist and psychologist, has studied the human ability to make and maintain friendships. How many people do we consider to be casual friends? Of those friends, how many would we invite to a dinner party? Of those friends, how many would we feel comfortable calling when we need advice or support? Dunbar found that the numbers have remained relatively consistent throughout human history. Since hunter-gatherer times, 150 has been the estimated number of individuals’ casual acquaintances, while 50 is the average number of close friends. Fifteen is the number of sympathetic confidantes, and only five people make up your very closest support group, which usually includes best friends and family.
the internet effect While the Internet has made it easier to keep track of people we have met over the years, technology does not magically give us the resources necessary to manage an exponential number of “friendships.” Relationships take time and emotional energy—both of which are spread pretty thin when we are always online, tending to virtual friendships. As a result, we may be cheating ourselves out of the benefits of close friends who can reduce stress, offer emotional support during happy and sad occasions, improve self-confidence, and discourage unhealthy behavior. To connect with people who have in-person, close-friend potential, try to unplug. Instead, seek out friends who share your interests and values by attending community events, taking up a new hobby, volunteering or simply taking a walk through your neighborhood.
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Fruitcake may not be the worst thing
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Grandma has ever given you.... Does heart disease run in your family? Knowing your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health history and understanding your risk can help you prevent heart disease, the number one cause of death in the United States.
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to take our FREE online heart risk assessment