February Special Section
2 | February 2021 | NorthFulton.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
Wellstar Heart Care: Heart attacks in women Brought to you by — Wellstar North Fulton Hospital You’ve seen it on TV or in movies — a character suddenly freezes. The grab their left arm and collapse to the ground, clutching their chest. They’ve just had a heart attack. But in reality, heart attacks don’t always look like that – especially in women. While heart disease is the most common cause of death, women can experience different symptoms than men. Although heart disease is serious, by learning the symptoms, you can reduce your risk and take action with the guidance of Wellstar’s expert cardiology team. The most common heart attack symptom in women is the same symptom men most often experience — some form of chest pain. However, it is possible to have a heart attack without feeling that hallmark symptom, and women are more likely to experience an array of tell-tale signs, including:
• Neck, jaw, shoulder, upper back or abdominal discomfort • Shortness of breath • Arm pain • Nausea or vomiting • Sweating • Lightheadedness or dizziness • Fatigue • Indigestion It is also more common for women to experience symptoms when they are sleeping or resting. “In women, heart attack symptoms may not be immediately recognizable for what they are, making it even more important to be vigilant and be able to recognize the subtle signs and symptoms,” Natasha Mamdani, DR. MAMDANI MD, cardiologist at Wellstar Avalon Health Park said. “Women are more likely to only arrive at the hospital after heart damage has already occurred, but it’s important
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to immediately seek emergency care if you think you may be experiencing a heart attack.” Every population group is touched by serious heart health statistics, but that is especially true for minorities. In 2017, heart disease was fatal for 54,675 Hispanic adults and for more than 107,300 Black adults. And with only 52 percent of African American women aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack according to the American Heart Association, it is important that women become educated about heart health. As Georgia’s leader in the number of Emergency Cardiac Care Center designations from the Georgia Department of Public Health, Wellstar cardiologists are experts in preventing and treating
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cardiovascular disease. Sixteen of Wellstar’s cardiologists are women, almost one-fifth of the cardiology team — the most in the state for a cardiovascular medicine practice. With locations around metro Atlanta, Wellstar’s expert cardiologists are close to home, too. Wellstar offers low-cost, 30-minute health screenings so you can know your risk of heart disease and take action with a personalized health plan. The system’s cardiologists can help you learn how to prevent heart attacks and know your risk factors. Some risk factors affect women more than men. Women with diabetes are more likely to develop heart disease than diabetic men, stress and depression affect women’s hearts more than men’s, and smoking is more of a risk factor for heart disease in women. Some other heart disease risk factors include: • Inactivity • Menopause • Pregnancy complications • Family history of early heart disease • Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus In recognition of American Heart Month and National Wear Red Day ® - a day of support for women›s heart health - women can reduce their risk of heart disease by exercising regularly, managing stress, limiting alcohol consumption, eating a healthy diet and scheduling heart screenings.
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SAFE HEALTHY KIDCARE As Wellstar pediatricians, we live to help children thrive.
We tell our little patients not to feel scared of our personal protective equipment. Just like their favorite superheroes, we also wear a costume and masks when saving lives and keeping the community safe. And children age 2 and older get to be superheroes too, by wearing masks and fighting crime (aka keeping infection at bay). At Wellstar Avalon Health Park, we keep children healthy and safe at every stage, whether they are a spunky toddler or growing teen. Our experienced pediatric team delivers complete kid care under one roof, including check-ups, immunizations and treatment for conditions such as asthma and allergies. Rest assured your child is in safe hands at Wellstar. We are keeping kids healthy amid COVID-19, and we are here to care for yours. wellstar.org/safecare
WELLSTAR AVALON HEALTH PARK 2450 Old Milton Parkway | Alpharetta
Dr. Brandi Lewis
Wellstar Pediatrician
Dr. Hebah Pranckun Wellstar Pediatrician
Call (470) 267-0380 to schedule an appointment or virtual visit today. wellstar.org/avalon
Dr. Brandi Lewis
Wellstar Pediatrician
More than healthcare. PEOPLE CARE
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Winter is the perfect time for skin rejuvenation By Kathryn Filipek, PA-C Premier Dermatology Microneedling and Platelet-Rich Plasma, or PRP. In the last twenty years of working in Dermatology, I have been excited to participate FILIPEK in amazing advances in our ability to care for and treat patients. When I started my career, there were few options for resurfacing the skin and few strategies for encouraging the skin to produce its own antiaging molecules. Chemical peels, microdermabrasion, some less effective lasers and early microneedling devices constituted the totality of the procedures that were generally available. Of all these devices, lasers and microneedling have undergone the most significant changes, and this article focuses on modern microneedling and how it can transform one’s skin for the better. Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure, sometimes referred to as collagen induction therapy, that involves a pen-like tool with sterilized needles. These needles can be adjusted to various depths and can penetrate into the skin to create small wounds, or microinjuries, to the top layer of your skin. Your body responds to these wounds by generating more collagen and elastin to heal your skin, which in turn can aid in correcting imperfections and make your skin look younger. These treatments can be utilized for several beneficial outcomes including: improving overall skin tone, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, assisting with acne or acne scarring, decreasing hair loss by stimulating growth, evening out scars or stretch marks, reducing the appearance in pore size and tightening loose skin. Generally, microneedling is a gentle procedure that causes minimal swelling, redness, or bruising depending of the depth of needles and the targeted endpoint of the procedure. More aggressive treatments may be required for treating acne scarring or scars themselves, resulting in small periods of downtime. Repeated treatments on a regular basis are required to maximize effects. Hold on a second – needles? And lots of them? No need to sweat. The gentle microneedling procedures often feel like a cat’s tongue scraping across one’s skin. For medium-grade microneedling, topical numbing creams are often applied 30-45 minutes pre-
procedure. And for the most aggressive microneedling focused on facial scar rejuvenation, prescription medication and bringing a driver can make even strongest treatments a positive experience. You can expect to begin seeing results around a week after the first treatment with some evening of skin tone, slightly reduced pore visibility and even a slight improvement in acne. With that said, for long-term results, long-term treatment will be required. This means that after an initial series of at least 3-4 treatments (more for acne scarring, hair loss, or deeper imperfections) 4-6 weeks apart, you will be able to see treatment benefit for several weeks after maximum results have been achieved. These results may not be permanent due to the normal aging process, and maintenance treatments can be scheduled as needed, sometimes every 6-18 months or so depending on one’s goals. One of the most exciting therapies available to complement microneedling procedures is the addition of plateletrich plasma, or PRP. This is a concentrate derived from whole blood that is taken from the patient at the time of the visit and is centrifuged (or spun down) to remove red blood cells. The remaining platelets work to heal wounds and injuries and are very rich in protein, growth factors, and cytokines, helping the skin tissue to repair itself and enhance the benefits of the treatment. While PRP can be utilized in several areas of medicine from joint pain to tendon repair, in dermatology we often utilize its benefits to enhance various cosmetic procedures. With microneedling, PRP is infused into the micro wounds during and after the treatment to aid in the outcome of the procedure, offering a magnified benefit and decreased healing time. Unlike some other treatment modalities, such as some lasers, microneedling can be utilized on most skin types. Consultations are imperative prior to scheduling a procedure so you and your provider can work closely together to prep your skin appropriately, make a plan regarding numbing cream or analgesia, and discuss lifestyle, sun avoidance and aftercare. At Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, your skin is just as important to us as it is to you. Dr. Brent Taylor, Kathryn Filipek PA, and the entire Premier Dermatology team are committed to treating you and your loved ones like family and helping you exceed your skin health needs and goals.
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Brought to you by — Dr. David Remaley Roswell Dental Care Brushing and flossing are everyday ways to keep your teeth bright, white and healthy. Still, if you might feel like your smile is lacking some sparkle or is more yellow than it used to be, you’re not alone. When the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry asked people what they’d most like to improve about their smile, the most common response was whiter teeth. Thinking about teeth whitening? Get the facts first. Why did my teeth change color? Over time, your teeth can go from white to not-so-bright for a number of reasons: • Food and Drink: Coffee, tea and red wine are some major staining culprits. What do they have in common? Intense color pigments called chromogens that attach to the white, outer part of your tooth, your enamel. • Tobacco Use: Two chemicals found in tobacco create stubborn stains: Tar and nicotine. Tar is naturally dark. Nicotine is colorless until it’s mixed with oxygen. Then, it turns into a yellowish, surfacestaining substance. • Age: Below the hard, white outer shell of your teeth (enamel) is a softer area called dentin. Over time, the outer enamel layer gets thinner with brushing and more of the yellowish dentin shows through. • Trauma: If you’ve been hit in the mouth, your tooth may change color because it reacts to an injury by laying down more dentin, which is a darker layer under the enamel. • Medications: Tooth darkening can be a side effect of certain antihistamines, antipsychotics and high blood pressure medications. Young children who are exposed to antibiotics like tetracycline and doxycycline when their teeth are forming (either in the womb or as a baby) may have discoloration of their adult teeth later in life. How does teeth whitening work? Teeth whitening is a simple process. Whitening products contain one of two tooth bleaches (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide). These bleaches break stains into smaller pieces, which makes the color less concentrated and your teeth brighter. Does it work on all teeth? No, which is why it’s important to talk to your dentist before deciding to whiten your teeth. For example, yellow teeth will probably bleach well, brown teeth may not respond as well and teeth with gray tones may not bleach at all. Whitening will not work on veneers, crowns or fillings What are my whitening options? • Stain removal toothpastes All toothpastes help remove sur-
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Dr. David Remaley
Dr. Destinee Hood
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face stain through the action of mild abrasives that scrub the teeth. Look for whitening toothpastes that have earned the ADA Seal of Approval. These toothpastes have additional polishing agents that are safe for your teeth and provide stain removal effectiveness. • In-office and at-home bleaching from your dentist This procedure usually requires only one office visit. The dentist will apply either a protective gel to your gums or a rubber shield to protect your gums. Bleach is then applied to the teeth. Your dentist can also provide you with a custom-made tray for at-home whitening. In this case, the dentist will give you instructions on how to place the bleaching solution in the tray and for what length of time. • Over-the-counter bleaching products You may see different options online or in your local grocery store, such as toothpastes or strips that whiten by bleaching your teeth. The concentration of the bleaching agent in these products is lower than what your dentist would use in the office. If you are thinking about using an over-the-counter bleaching kit, discuss options with your dentist and look for one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Are there any side effects from teeth whitening? Some people who use teeth whiteners may experience minor tooth sensitivity. That happens when the peroxide in the whitener gets through the enamel to the soft layer of dentin and irritates the nerve of your tooth. In most cases the sensitivity is temporary. Our doctors are extensively trained in cosmetic dentistry and have helped many patients completely renew their smiles! For more information about tooth whitening, smile makeovers, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Remaley and Dr. Hood to have your smile evaluated and receive an accurate estimate for your treatment, give Roswell Dental Care a call at 470.288.1152.
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Dedicated to providing exceptional dentistry and creating beautiful, healthy smiles for over 30 years. Our services include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Crowns and Bridges in a few days • Custom Baked Cookies Daily Porcelain Veneers • FREE Nitrous Oxide and Oral Conscious Sedation Tooth Colored Composite Fillings • Facial Aesthetic Enhancements Teeth Whitening- no sensitivity including BOTOX and Dermal Fillers Oral Cancer Screenings on all patients Teeth Cleanings, Digital X-Rays and Comprehensive Oral Exams on all new patients Cosmetic Smile Makeovers and Full Mouth Digital X-Rays Reconstruction (Complimentary Consultation) $100 Value Occlusal Guards and Bite Adjustments New patients only. Offer expires on 3/15/21. Snore Guards and Sleep Apnea Analysis Digital X-Rays (90% less radiation) and Intra-Oral Photos Digitally Scanned Dental ImpressionsNo more gooey impressions! Electronic Records Accept and File all Major Insurances Implants Root Canals Extractions Same day appointments available! Spa-like Relaxing Atmosphere
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470.288.1152 • roswelldentalcare.com 1570 Old Alabama Rd • Ste 102 • Roswell, GA 30076
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February is National Cancer Prevention Month, so now is a great time to talk about how to prevent cancer. DR. STEGALL To be honest, we aren’t doing a very good job of this in our society. The lifetime risk of developing cancer has been steadily rising, to the point that roughly 40% of the population will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives. Why are we seeing so much cancer today? You might wonder if cancer is simply due to genetic causes, but that is actually a very small cause of cancer today (about 5-10% based on most estimates). Rather, cancer is mostly due to poor lifestyle choices. If you want to significantly reduce your odds of developing cancer, be sure to eat a plantbased diet full of fruits, vegetables, beans, and grains. Organic is best. Avoid processed, sugary food. Drink plenty of clean, filtered water. Exercise regularly. Don’t smoke. Enjoy alcohol in moderation. Get plenty of sleep. Seek to minimize stress. Embrace a strong support system of family and friends. Oh, and be sure to see your doctor for regular check-ups, including the recommended cancer screening tests. Hopefully you won’t get cancer, but if you do, early detection is key.
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3 Reasons to stay hydrated for heart health Brought to you by — HydralIVe February is American Heart Month. Did you know roughly 630,000 Americans die of heart-related diseases annually and they can be afflicted at any stage and any age in their lives? Water is critical for heart health. Your heart is constantly working, pumping about 2,000 gallons of blood a day. By staying hydrated – that is, by drinking more water than you are losing – you are helping your heart do its job. Here are the facts: 1. Dehydration exhausts the heart When your body is not getting proper hydration, your blood volume lowers and thickens as blood consists mostly of water. And when blood volume drops, your vessels tighten and heart rate increases to compensate for that drop – which isn’t good news for optimal functioning of the organ. 2. Dehydration increases risk of stroke Stroke is caused by the lack of optimal blood reaching the brain, and when
you consider how lack of hydration lowers blood volume from the above point, the connection is pretty obvious. 3. Dehydration increases chances of Fatal Coronary Heart Disease The connection between dehydration and coronary heart disease (CHD) was proven in a study that found sufficient hydration reduces risk of CHD by 59% in women and 46% in men. What’s more, it you drink just five glasses of more water per day, it can make a huge difference! What Can You Do? Those most at risk for dehydration are the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, children and athletes. But dehydration can strike anyone at any time and during any season. This is why a regular regimen for hydration has to become a part of your daily lifestyle. For good heart and overall health, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated. IV Therapy is also an effective means of hydration. Remember, a hydrated heart is a happy heart.
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Reducing the spread of disease through better indoor air Brought to you by — Oaks at Suwanee Creek Oaks at Suwanee Creek, a brand new Assisted Living and Memory Care community in Suwanee, recently had 12 GPS air purification systems installed with technology that attacks and kills pathogens such as viruses, mold spores and bacteria, in addition to reducing particles that bother those with allergies and neutralizing odors. It’s Mother Nature’s way of cleaning GPS technology (Global Plasma Solutions) generates the same ions as Mother Nature creates with lightning, waterfalls, and ocean waves. Mother Nature uses energy to break apart molecules. It is nature’s way of cleansing the air naturally and creating a healthy environment. The only difference is that GPS technology does it without forming ozone or other harmful byproducts. Rate of reduction results after sensivitiy and simulation testing Coronavirus 90% Tuberculosis 69% E.coli 99.6% MRSA 96.2% Norovirus 93.5% Staphylococcus 96.2% Clostridium Difficile 86.8% Legionella 99.7%
HOW DOES IT WORK? GPS clears the air of particles faster Particulate matter includes pollutants, dust, allergens, mold, bacteria – and viruses. GPS technology constantly generates a high concentration of positively and negatively charged ions. These ions travel through the air continuously seeking out and attaching to particles. Larger by virtue of combination, they are more easily captured by the ventilation and filtration systems or become too heavy to remain suspended in the air. GPS Inactivates Pathogens When ions come into contact with pathogens, they steal away hydrogen from the pathogens, reducing the infectivity of the virus. GPS is Safe Needlepoint bipolar ionization is OZONE free and safe to use across commercial, industrial and residential buildings. Traditional bipolar ionization systems produce harmful ozone as a byproduct. Oaks at Suwanee Creek is excited to have this incredible new technology already installed in advance of their opening. They are currently offering specials and scheduling tours, so please reach out today for more information by calling 470-235-5300 or emailing benita.watts@oaksseniorliving.com. Make sure to like and follow their Facebook page as well!
Oaks at Suwanee Creek, a brand new Assisted Living and Memory Care recently had 12 GPS air purification systems installed
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