Appen Media Group
Health Wellness February Special Section
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Sponsored Section • health & wellness
February 2018
Show your heart some love Early screenings and changes in diet and exercise can save lives When people think of February, Valentine’s Day usually comes to mind. It’s often filled with hearts. Chocolate hearts, hearts held in the paws of plush bears and heartshaped jewelry. anderson But there’s a heart you cannot see and it may be in need of some love. Every 42 seconds someone has a heart attack in the United States. In a year, 610,000 Americans die from heart disease, according to the American Heart Association. But many heart conditions are preventable through early heart screenings and changes in lifestyle. The WellStar Cardiac Network is finding ways to fight heart disease and
provide people with the support they need to be successful. One of them is the Know Your Heart program, a screening that can help determine patients’ risk for heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions. The WellStar Know Your Heart program is a preventive, self-pay screening program that offers two levels of testing performed at WellStar North Fulton Hospital. Patients can get basic or advanced screenings depending on their age, symptoms and risk factors. “This is a very successful program offered by WellStar Health System ¬– and we’re excited to offer it here at North Fulton,” said Hunt Anderson, M.D., medical director of North Fulton’s cardiology program. “We know that cardiovascular events like heart attacks or strokes can often be prevented if risk factors are addressed, so it is vital that our com-
munity be more proactive.” The screening uses a combination of patient history and laboratory tests, as well as an optional cardiac CT scan, a rapid, low-radiation imaging test that looks for calcium buildup in the walls of the arteries that supply the heart; these tests can identify heart disease, possibly before someone shows any signs or symptoms. “Each screening includes a consultation where we give the patient education on how to improve their risk fac-
Life changes go a long way
Suresh Ramamurthy, M.D., a WellStar cardiologist in Roswell, shares some tips to keep a healthy heart: • Scheduling a heart screening with WellStar or visiting your primary care physician for a wellness check • Quitting tobacco, as chemicals in tobacco will interfere with the heart and its blood circulation • Doing 30 minutes of moderate activity per day, five days per week • Maintaining a healthy diet with limited saturated fat (such as in red meat) and trans fat (found in bakery products, for instance) and more fruits, vegetables and whole grains • Sleeping seven to nine hours every night, as lack of sleep leads to a higher risk of heart problems as well as depression and obesity
Guided implants By: Dr. Sarah Roberts, Crabapple Dental
Our passion is creating the smile that you were meant to have – one that is attractive, confident and beautiful Preventative,General, Restorative, and Cosmetic Dentistry for the entire family
678.319.0123
crabappledental.com 12670 Crabapple Road • Suite 110 | Milton, GA 30004
tors going forward. If there is a specific risk that needs to be addressed immediately, we then arrange for the patient to discuss these results with a WellStar cardiologist,” Dr. Anderson said. During the consultation, patients receive risk factor education, diet and exercise recommendations, as well as a personalized report to take home. To determine eligibility and to schedule an appointment for a Know Your Heart screening call 770-756STAR (7827).
Question: What is a guided implant? Answer: A guided implant is an efficient and predictable way of placing a dental implant. It includes taking a Computerized Tomography (CT) scan of the patient’s jawbone. This scan eliminates all guesswork by finding the best part of the jawbone for placement of the dental implant. Question: What is the main benefit of guided implants? Answer: The main benefit of guided implant surgery is accuracy. The CT scan gives a detailed look of the jawbone and the surrounding tissues and nerves. From this, the most optimal site for the implant can be found. This allows the dentist to figure out all drilling, angulation, and depth before surgery, creating successful implants. Question: How does guided implant surgery work? Answer: The first step in guided implant surgery is the Computerized Tomography (CT) scan. Once the scan is complete, the dentist can begin planning for the implant surgery by creating a guide. The implant guide
is molded according to the patient’s mouth. The guide includes stops that limit the depth of the drill based upon the patient’s jawbone. Once the guide is created, the dental implants can be accurately placed. This creates permanent restoration. The entire process can take as little as an hour. Question: What are the benefits? Answer: Not only are guided implants accurate and precise, but they are also known for a shorter recovery period. The fewer invasions lead to less blood and pain, shortening the recovery process. The time of surgery is also decreased since the CT scan eliminates all guessing and checking. Question: Why does Crabapple Dental perform guided implants? Answer: Crabapple Dental’s main focus is to offer the highest quality care for its patients. Dr. Sarah Roberts and her experienced staff are focused on providing attentive, comfortable, and state-of-the-art dental care. Crabapple Dental performs guided implants because they offer the highest quality of implants. The precision and accuracy of guided implants allow our patients to have lifelong implants that are safe and reliable. Crabapple Dental: Dr. Sarah Roberts. 12670 Crabapple Rd. #110, Alpharetta GA. 30004. Phone: 678319-0123 Crabappledental.com
February 2018
health & wellness • Sponsored Section
You can’t SEE your HEART.
How do you know it’s healthy? We can Help. The Know Your Heart screening can determine your risk of heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions — things you may not even be aware of. It’s simple, fast, affordable, and provides insight into your heart’s overall health. Your test results will be reviewed with you by a WellStar Cardiovascular Medicine healthcare professional.
Packages Available Starting at $49 Call 770-956-STAR (7827) to learn more or schedule an appointment. All services performed at WellStar North Fulton Hospital 3000 Hospital Blvd, Roswell, GA 30076
wellstar.org
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Sponsored Section • health & wellness
February 2018
Heart attack recovery and prevention Brought to you by: Home Helpers Home Care February is National Heart Month, an appropriate time to focus on heart attack recovery and prevention. You or your loved one are not alone in this experience that affects over 735,000 Americans every year. The good news is there are definite steps to take to help prevent a second attack. Practice prevention. The major risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking and additional factors like the presence of diabetes. Chances are also increased if you are overweight, have a poor diet, incorporate little to no physical exercise, or consume alcohol in excess. Incorporating the following key lifestyle changes into a daily routine can drastically reduce the chance of having another heart attack. Diet: There are multitudes of heart healthy diets to choose from but working with a nutritionist can make you feel confident you’ve found the best one for you. All of them have certain similarities in that they emphasize plantbased foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and beans.
Limit salt intake and substitute butter and hydrogenated oils with alternatives such as olive oil. Exercise: Gradually ease into a heart-healthy exercise routine. Enroll in a cardiac rehabilitation program. It’s reassuring to know you’re taking the right steps at the right time. It is medically supervised and consists of an exercise program as well as counseling and education in stress reduction techniques. Stop Smoking: Smoking thickens the blood—increasing the risk for both high blood pressure and blood clots. Smoking increases the risk of heart disease by two to four times that of non-smokers. Be aware of the signs of an impending heart attack. Prompt medical treatment significantly increases a good outcome. Most heart attacks exhibit mild preliminary symptoms such as a sense of pressure in the chest, arms, back, neck or jaw. Watch for shortness of breath, breaking out in a cold sweat, or nausea. Help your loved one cope. Fear can grip a person’s psyche who has experienced a heart attack firsthand. Every mild chest pain can have them reach-
Discover Your Perfect
SMILE
By: Dr. Ushma Patel, D.M.D and Dr. Brittany Corbett, D.D.S Center For Advanced Dentistry
Today it’s easier and more affordable than ever. • Sedation Dentistry – snooze through your entire visit • Dental Implants – permanent replacements for missing teeth • Straight Teeth in Six Months or less • Teeth Whitening, dazzling results – ZOOM! • Metal-Free, tooth colored white fillings • Porcelain veneers for crooked or stained teeth • Digital X-Rays - 90% less radiation ($500 OFF) • Botox for TMJ and migraines
Dr. Ushma Patel, D.M.D
client satisfaction scores gathered each month by Home Care Pulse, an independent satisfaction research firm for home care. We rank among a select few home care providers across the country who have proven their ability to provide outstanding care. For a free in-home consultation to determine the personalized services that are best for you, contact us at (678) 430-8511 or visit us online at www. HomeHelpers HomeCare.com/ Alpharetta.
Children’s Dental Health Month
“Doctors trust us to care for them and their families.”
Our doctors are members of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, Hinman Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry and the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation.
ing for the phone and dialing 911. Help ease their fears by maintaining a positive attitude and minimize conflict and stress with a calm, peaceful environment. Consider in-home assistance to help with day to day needs and caregiver stress. Along with helping with the daily activities of living, a skilled caregiver can give medication reminders, prepare heart-healthy meals, take a loved one to appointments, and offer companionship—an important contribution to a healthy heart. Getting help even a few times a week can also ensure that a family caregiver remains at their best and maintains a healthy lifestyle. Home Helpers is here to help in the comfort of home. We have just been awarded the 2018 Best of Home Care – Provider of Choice Award for the third straight year. It’s granted only to the top-ranking home care providers and based on
Dr. Brittany Corbett, D.D.S.
www.HiTechSmiles.com | 770-884-6623 6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500 • Suwanee, GA
In February dentists, parents, and children all across America observe National Children’s Dental Health Month. This all began as a one-day event in Cleveland, Ohio on February 3rd, 1941, and the first national observance of Children’s Dental Health Day was held on February 8th, 1949. It has since grown into a month-long celebrationincluding such events as health fairs, dental office tours, and visits to the classroom by dentists and hygienists. Dr. Ushma Patel has volunteered at local schools giving educational programs to several children’s classes on how to take care of their teeth and talking to them about nutrition to keep them healthy. One of the reasons for this special annual event is that many people are still unaware of the important role early dental care plays in our children’s overall health. We strongly recommend that parents take action early to ensure the health of their children’s teeth because attitudes and habits established at an early age are critical in maintaining
good oral health throughout life. Please make sure that we see your child within six months of the eruption of the first tooth as recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA), and certainly no later than the child’s first birthday. Preventive care such as cleanings and fluoride treatments provide your child with “smile insurance” for a lifetime! Tooth decay is the most common childhood disease. 5 X times more common than Asthma. Tooth decay is entirely preventable. 3 out of every 5 children are affected by tooth decay. 51 million school hours are missed due to oral health problems. Every $1 spent on prevention in oral care can save you $8-$50 on restorative and emergency procedures. If you wish for any further information, please call us at 678-894-7926 or visit us on the web at www.HiTechSmiles.com. We’d be happy to help in any way we can! We do see many children of our adult patients. P.S- Kid’s, don’t forget to enter into our Hershey Kisses Guessing Contest to win a $25 Skyzone Giftcard and another $25 Redbox Giftcard! Winner will be awarded mid-February!
February 2018
health & wellness • Sponsored Section
northfulton.com 5
Thank you for voting Home Helpers Best Home Care for Seniors! Personalized Home Care that nurtures a youthful spirit
Greg and Hilary Eldridge,
Owners – Home Helpers of Alpharetta Certified Senior Advisors(CSA)®
Serving Communities North of Atlanta
www.HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/Alpharetta Finding the right caregiver is much more than just seeking a professional with great skills. It’s about finding a caregiver with the heart and spirit to make a difference in someone’s life.
For a free consultation, please call 678-430-8511
At Home Helpers, our focus every day is matching the right caregiver with each of our clients. This thoughtful selection helps establish a bond between a caregiver and client that bolsters the young at heart spirit waiting to come out in each client. Each office is independently owned and operated.
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Sponsored Section • health & wellness
February 2018
How I transformed my body and mind through yoga By: Hope Knosher, Founder Hope’s Yoga; Certified Yoga Therapist, & E-RYT Twenty years ago I existed in a continually exhausted state. I was overweight, undernourished, and not sleeping. I had received several dire diagnoses. I knew I needed to change my lifestyle. I started small by moving a little every day. I found that I felt more energized after I got out and moved my body. That gave me the incentive to keep it up! I dove into research mode and completely changed my diet and lifestyle. As much as this helped, my transformation wasn’t complete. I came to yoga after a rough bout with breast cancer and the loss of my mother weeks after my last treatment. It was hard at first, and I couldn’t do a lot. Through my practice, I learned that the more I could stay present, let go, and allow things to move through me, the more I could heal and find inner peace. As time went by I began to feel lighter and freer for the first time in years as layers of holding (and pounds!) melted away. The changes were noticeable to all who knew me. I felt more joy and more ease in both body and mind. I am thankful that the road I have traveled has led me to where I am today, to a much healthier place where I can share my journey and inspire others on theirs. I am leading a retreat in Sedona in September called Awakening Hope. Do you need to awaken your hope again and get moving in the right direction? I also teach classes and workshops in the Johns Creek Area. All the details are up at www.hopesyoga.com. I invite you to open your heart and mind and take the first step toward your best life. Let’s do this together!
On the left at 36 and on the right at 54. It’s hard to find pictures of me from 20 years ago. When there was a camera around, I either stayed behind it or hid behind someone or something else. I was hiding in every way, including from myself.
Transforming Awakening Hope Women’s Retreat September 5-9, 2018
• Refresh your life and re-set your body! • Come as you are and leave as you want to be! • Harmonize your mind, body, and soul!
www.hopesyoga.com w.hopesyoga.com | 770-789-7 770-789-7782 LLocated t d iin JJohns h C Creekk
Get all the details: www.hopesyoga.com
Group Classes
Small classes with personal attention
Voted “Best of Atlanta” by Atlanta Magazine “This journey provided me with a profound experience of self-reflection, self-examination, self-renewal and laughter.
Private Instruction Learn, deepen, grow
Yoga for Healing
Cancer and chronic illness
Corporate On-Site Yoga Classes Retreats
▲
~ J.A. Taken at the last Awakening Hope Retreat in Sedona, AZ led by Hope Knosher, C-IAYT, ERYT & Founder of Hope’s Yoga.
Hope Knosher Founder Hope’s Yoga Certified Yoga Therapist and E-RYT
February 2018
health & wellness • Sponsored Section
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Need dry eye relief? By: Dr. Stuart Newman More than 25 million Americans suffer from dry eye, a chronic, progressive disease that can cause tired, uncomfortable eyes, and blurred or fluctuating vision. In moderate to severe cases, it affects quality of life by making it too difficult to keep the eyes open long enough to read, drive, watch a movie, or look at a computer. Dr. Stuart Newman, a board certinewman fied ophthalmologist at Thomas Eye Group in Roswell, specializes in dry eye treatment and offers new treatment options that help provide relief to dry eye sufferers. Dr. Newman leads Thomas Eye Group’s Dry Eye Center of Excellence providing patients with state-of-the-art diagnostic testing and management of dry eye.“Having dealt with dry eye myself, I understand my patients’ struggles and enjoy helping them find the perfect solution for their dry eye issue,” says Dr. Newman. Treatment for dry eye has to be individualized depending on type of dry eye and severity. One of the new in-office treatment options that Dr. New-
man offers for blepharitis is the BlephEx™ procedure. BlephEx eliminates the scurf, bacterial debris, and biofilm that builds up along the lid margin and improves the overall health of the eyelid. Treatments are typically repeated every 4-6 months depending on the severity of the disease. Patients can then begin to produce more of their own tears and reduce or eliminate the chronic and irritating symptoms associated with blepharitis and its subsequent dry eye disease. In addition to BlephEx, Thomas Eye Group also offers BBL, Broad Band Light, as a treatment for Blepharitis induced dry eye. In addition to the BlephEx™ procedure, we are excited to offer a new and innovative procedure called LipiFlow. Dry eye is most commonly caused by MGD (Meibomian Gland Dysfunction) and the LipiFlow
Thermal Pulsation System is a revolutionary way to treat MGD, not just the symptoms. Dr. Newman will evaluate your symptoms, tear film and gland function to determine the underlying cause of your dry eye symptoms and determine which treatment option is ideal for you. If your eyes are tired and you have symptoms of redness, burning, itching, matting, crusting of lashes, light sensitivity and even watering of the eyes, please contact Thomas Eye Group at 770-4755515 to schedule an appointment. The Roswell office of Thomas Eye Group is located across from North Fulton Hospital at 11690 Alpharetta Highway. The doctors include Larry Heit, M.D.; Stuart Newman, M.D.; Stephen Lipsky, M.D.; David Sackel, M.D.; and Nhora Abril, O.D.
A difference you can see.
North Fulton’s source for Total Eye Care
Larry Heit, M.D.
Stuart Newman, M.D. Stephen Lipsky, M.D.
Now Featuring: Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery
770.475.5515
David Sackel, M.D.
Nhora Abril, O.D.
• Cataract Surgery • Comprehensive Ophthalmology • Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus • Cornea, Glaucoma, and Retina Services • Eyewear and Contact Lenses for all ages • Optometric Services • LASIK and Refractive Surgery • Oculoplastic Surgery and Cosmetic Services
Dry Eye Center of Excellence!
Roswell
11690 Alpharetta Highway | Roswell, GA 30076
www.thomaseye.com
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Sponsored Section • health & wellness
February 2018
What’s new in melanoma (part 2) By: Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and MOHS Surgery of Atlanta
Accepting Patients Skin Cancer & Mohs Surgery • Medical Dermatology Vein Care • Cosmetic Services
Insist on the BEST WINNER 2017
Best Of North Atlanta
Voted: •Best Vein Specialist •1st Runner Up for Best Dermatologist
Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the Presented By field of Vein Care. Dr. Taylor has performed thousands of Mohs surgeries and reconstructions, dermatologic surgeries and procedures while in private practice in Florida where local and even international patients have sought him out for the best care. He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables. He now brings his highly sought after expertise back home to Alpharetta with the opening of Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta!
Now accepting patients. We accept Medicare. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Taylor today.
Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta 3180 North Point Parkway, Suite 420 Alpharetta, Georgia 30005 Dr. Brent Taylor
PremierDermatologyAtlanta.com • 678-345-1899
In last issue’s installment, we discussed what melanoma is and talked about true Mohs surgery for melanoma, a tissue sparing technique for removing melanomas and melanoma in situ in cosmetically and functionally sensitive areas. This week, we look into diagnostic, prognostic and treatment advances for invasive and metastatic melanomas. One of the most exciting recent advances is a new method of genetic testing for melanoma. Pioneers at Castle Biosciences have developed a test that is performed on melanoma tissue and that can allow a doctor to better know how a melanoma will behave. The test is called DecisionDx-Melanoma. Remarkably, this test is capable of looking at genetic signatures within a melanoma and identifying whether a melanoma is likely to have spread or likely to have remained in place and have been cured surgically. The test is so accurate that it may provide even more information than a “sentinel lymph node biopsy” – a procedure that involves removing and testing lymph nodes to check for melanoma cells. In all likelihood, for many tumors, the DecisionDx-Melanoma Test and sentinel lymph node biopsies will be used together and provide previously unavailable predictive power. DecisionDx-Melanoma uses genetic testing of a patient’s melanoma tissue to divide the melanoma into a “Class 1” (good) or a “Class 2” (bad) result. According to summary data, for a patient with a low risk Class 1 result, the chance of the tumor spreading within 5 years is approximately 3%. For a patient with a high risk Class 2 result, the chance of a tumor spreading with 5 years is approximately 69%. This is a startlingly stark dichotomy. For metastatic melanomas, the long-awaited age of personalized or targeted therapies has begun to arrive. In years past, “chemotherapy” meant taking medicines that are not very good at sorting out good cells from bad cells. Traditional chemotherapy involves medicines that usually work by killing cells that are growing quickly. Cancer usually grows quickly, so chemotherapy affects cancer. But some of our own tissues constantly grow and turn over. Our hair and our bowel cells are constantly being replaced and growing quickly, so chemotherapy results in the expected baldness and gastrointestinal side-effects. New chemotherapies are finally targeting the bad cells and sparing more of
the good. For example, patients whose melanomas have a specific mutation in a gene called “BRAF” have available to them drugs such as Vemurafenib, which specifically acts on a specific gene that is often mutated in melanoma. Likewise, medications such as Nivolumab stimulate a person’s own immune system to fight a cancer. The way that drugs like Nivolumab work makes them better categorized as immunotherapy than chemotherapy. It is the dawning of a new age. And we are already into phase 2 of this new age. In phase 1, the very first immunotherapy drugs such as ipilimumab were stimulating people’s immune systems to fight cancer, but they were also causing a lot of sideeffects. Anyone who has had the flu knows what it is like to have an overactive immune system, and ipilimumab sometimes triggered reactions similar to autoimmune disease – a condition in which one’s immune system attacks one’s own body. This might sound like we are back to square one. Ipilimumab shares features in common with the old chemotherapy since they both seem to attack good cells as well as bad. But the good news is we may be on to a second generation of immunotherapylike chemotherapeutics. Nivolumab is a medicine that is a close cousin to Ipilimumab. Both stimulate the immune system to fight cancer. Recent studies including one just published in late 2017 in the New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that, in stage III and IV melanoma patients Nivolumab resulted in a 12-month rate of recurrence-free survival of 70.5% whereas ipilimumab only resulted in 60.8%. More importantly, only 9.7% of patients taking nivolumab discontinued due to side effects (adverse events) whereas 42.6% of patients taking ipilimumab discontinued due to adverse events. We may not just be at the doorstep of targeted therapies. We may already be on the second step. Additional exciting advances are taking place, but the most important point about melanoma is that the best chance to cure melanoma is when a melanoma is caught small. If you or a loved one has a changing or concerning spot, make an appointment with a dermatologist. At Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, we are proud to be one of the only practices in Georgia offering true Mohs surgery for melanoma and melanoma in situ. We counsel patients about DecisionDx Melanoma testing and help patients navigate the complicated world of sentinel lymph node biopsies and when to see an oncologist or surgical oncologist.
February 2018
health & wellness • Sponsored Section
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Newly engaged! New smile! By: Dr. Jeffrey Jordan Investing in a healthy, beautiful smile may be one of the smartest moves brides and grooms can make as they plan their big day! Advances in orthodontic treatment can offer a beautiful smile faster, and more affordably, than ever before. Long after the flowers have faded and the reception lights are dimmed, a gorgeous smile is a gift that stays with you happily ever after. Clear aligners and tooth colored braces made with ceramic brackets are practically invisible, and these are popular options for adults. Even the orthodontic wires can be tooth colored so people don’t even notice that you are in treatment. The time between appointments is now longer than it used to be, usually six weeks, due to improved treatment mechanics. That is good news for working people. More good news is how quickly patients begin to see an improvement in their smile. One in four patients is now an adult! The American Association of Orthodontists attributes the rise in
adult orthodontics to the improved selfesteem and self-confidence that comes with orthodontic treatment. Patients tell us their social lives improve after treatment, and we can see the changes that happen as people just smile more often and with more self-confidence. Affordability of treatment is a frequent question, and there is good news here too. Orthodontists are one of the few healthcare professionals that offer payment plans, making monthly payments quite manageable over the treatment time. Many employers are including adult orthodontic coverage in their dental plans in addition to Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) that allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars that can cover treatment. At the end of the day, this is a lifetime investment in your health and appearance. Your wedding day is a perfect opportunity to have the ‘picture perfect’ smile! Your wedding day is also probably the most photographed day of your life. Why not make those photos sparkle forever with a healthy, beautiful smile?
• 1st Orthodontist in Alpharetta • Served Over 20,000 New Patients • Diplomat of American Board of Orthodontics • Convenient Office Hours
WINNER 2014
WINNER
Best Of North Atlanta Presented By
2015
Best Of North Atlanta Presented By
WINNER 2016
Best Of North Atlanta Presented By
WINNER 2017
Best Of North Atlanta Presented By
Winner 4 years in a Row Voted Best Orthodontist in North Fulton and South Forsyth
JEFFREY W. JORDAN, DMD, MSD, PC
4205 North Point Parkway • Alpharetta, GA 30022
770-751-1240 • www.jwjordan.com
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Sponsored Section • health & wellness
February 2018
Depression:
Very common – very treatable
By: Mariann Mamberg MSW LCSW
Are you caring for a Senior with physical or cognitive challenges? If so, this may be a perfect event for you! Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek [ATJC] will be hosting a Chocolate Fondue Kick-Off Party on Tuesday, February 13 from 5-6 PM. This will be a casual, fun initial meeting where you will have the opportunity to meet other families on a similar pathway of life. ATJC professionals will help guide discussions, address your concerns, and answer the many common questions: When is the right time to move them? When should they have a safer environment with 24-hour oversight?
What is the best approach when your loved one is resistant to change? ATJC is an exemplary resort-style community, managed by The Arbor Company- a corporation that has been assisting Seniors, and their family members, for over 30 years… helping them achieve the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing your loved ones are exceptionally well cared for. Call Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek at 770-999-9577 to inform us you’d like to attend this event. We will reserve a fondue fork, and provide a wealth of helpful information.
Is something just not right? Not enjoying the things you used to love? It could be depression, which affects 15 million people in the US every year. Sadly, although very treatable, 80% of people who suffer from depression don’t seek treatment. Counseling with a therapist who can relate to your problems can be very effective, as can medications when appropriate. Unfortunately, many people are still reluctant to seek the help that may turn their lives around. Here are some symptoms that depression can cause. (NOTE: you do NOT have to suffer from all of them to be depressed. Even one or two may be a signal.) You are always tired – People and things annoy you – Sleeping too little or too much – Eating habits change (stress makes you eat more, depression makes you eat less – Pain (pain can cause depression, and depression can cause pain) – You stop caring about your appearance – You prefer isolation, you’re in hiding – Nothing interests you, the joy is gone – Negative thoughts, beating yourself up – Forgetfulness,
loss of concentration – Numbness, you wish you would feel happy or sad, something! – You think about dying, or participate in risky behavior. There is no need to suffer when depression is a highly treatable condition. If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, especially if that includes suicidal thoughts or behavior, professional help may be the answer. Again, depression is treatable and suicidal thoughts need to be addressed immediately. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please call the Suicide Hotline at 800-273-8255. www.MariannMamberg.com (770) 661-0088 mmamberg@comcast.net
I specialize in treating Relationship Issues, Life-stage Issues, and Depression. Through years of experience, I’m confident that...
no problem is too great to overcome! Together we can change your life! THEY MADE THIS TIME OF THE YEAR SPECIAL FOR YOU. NOW, YOU CAN MAKE IT FOR THEM. Special e
2017
Best Of North Atlanta Presented By
We are honored to be voted 1st runner up for best senior living community. Thanks for your votes! 770-741-1881 www.at-johnscreek.com 3180 Karen White Drive, Suwanee, GA
Specializing in: • Issues of Aging • Depression • Couples Therapy
• Grief & Loss • PTSD – EMDR Certified
Medicare & Most Insurance Accepted With many Medicare plans, there is no out-of-pocket cost to you.
Mariann Mamberg MSW, LCSW Psychotherapist & Life Coach
Office in Milton – Also serving Alpharetta Roswell & Cumming (770) 661-0088 MariannMamberg.com | MMamberg@comcast.net Member International Association of Trauma Professionals • Member NASW
February 2018
health & wellness • Sponsored Section
How do i love thee? Let me count the ways… By: Amy Hentschel, Senior Provisions Elizabeth Barrett Browning wrote beautifully in her Sonnet 43 of all the ways that she felt love towards her husband. In this the month of love, I felt compelled to write of the very tangible hentschel ways that we can show our love to our family by preparing for the inevitable course of aging. One of the most loving things you can do for your family is to have a plan and provisions for when you begin to need care. Here is a short list of items to consider when addressing the future: Legal Issues Up-to-date will, durable power of attorney, living will, and Medicaid planning Estate Plan Tax implications on gifts and inheritance, trusts, and property
ownership Medical Expenses Cost of long-term care, insurance, Medicare and Medicaid benefits Medical Care Doctors, specialists, list of medications, medical history Housing and Care Home modifications, senior communities, private caregivers, home safety End of Life Plan and Care Hospice care, funeral arrangements, and living will wishes These items can seem overwhelming to accomplish all at once. We recommend with our clients that they take one or two items a year and find the best resource in the community to help you create a plan. Some arrangements may change over the course of the years, but to have some plan is better than no plan. We are always available to help get you started and point you in the right direction. May everyone find time this month to share some love with a senior in your life. Amy Hentschel, senior care consultant and owner of Senior Provisions, LLC. www.SeniorProvisions.com
northfulton.com 11
What you should know to prepare for a blood test (BPT) - A new survey reveals Americans are not aware of what to report prior to a blood test. Only half (52 percent) believe it is very important to report use of supplements to their healthcare provider before getting a blood test. With recent interest in the use of supplements like biotin as beauty treatments, it’s especially critical for consumers, doctors and lab personnel to talk before blood tests because very high doses of supplements could interfere with some test results. The possibility of interference in blood testing is low, but if you’re taking high-dose biotin for hair, skin or nail health, for example, it is best to inform your doctor before a blood test. Just as you may need to fast before certain types of tests, you may need to hold off on taking supplements like biotin for at least eight hours before blood work. The survey, commissioned by Roche Diagnostics, also found that most Americans (85 percent) expect their physician to provide complete instructions on how to prepare for a blood test.
“Many factors - from stress, to prescription medication, to vitamins - can affect blood test results, so it’s important to be proactive in communicating about medicines or supplements you’re taking rather than waiting to be asked,” said Dr. Emily Jungheim, associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Ask your healthcare provider about ways to prepare for blood tests. Here are some simple tips to follow: * Write down all your prescription medicines the night before a blood test so you can share up-to-date information with the lab technician or your doctor. * Also report vitamins, supplements, nutraceuticals and any over-the-counter medications. * Know the doses of the medicines and supplements you are taking. The dose matters. You may not be aware that 5 mg of biotin per day, for example, is equal to the amount of biotin in 100 capsules of a typical daily multivitamin.
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Sponsored Section • health & wellness
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February 2018
Innovative dental whitening procedures for your smile By: Dr. R. David Remaley A beautiful, bright, white and healthy smile can increase self confidence and overall life satisfaction. The demand for whiter teeth has spurred the many innovative technologies available to treat tooth discoloration. Historically, dental whitening was performed in the dental office using a highly concentrated solution of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and isolating the surrounding soft tissues to prevent contact with the whitening agent. Now there is a diverse number of whitening procedures available in the marketplace. These include: • Whitening toothpastes that contain peroxide, enzymes, citrate and other products that augment the cleaning and helps minimize stains. These products are generally more abrasive to the tooth dentin but does increase the luster and esthetics of the teeth. • Over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products alloy for a variety of materials and delivery methods usually at a less expensive cost. Whitening strips containing a 10% H2O2 solution remain a popular technique and has been reported to be safe and effective. • In-office whitening is the initial technique of tooth whitening and uses a concentration of H2O2 up to 40% and have been the most effective and the fastest results. Due to the higher H2O2 concentration, there could be a higher incidence of dentinal sensitivity. • Dentist dispensed, take home applications are a well-established whitening procedure. It was introduced as a nighttime bleaching technique used with bleaching trays and a solution of 10% carbamide peroxide. Newer products with less H2O2 concentration have recently been introduced for patients that cannot tolerate wearing trays at night and only need to be worn 30-60 minutes throughout the daytime. At home application allows for freedom of use whenever convenient and generally results less dentinal sensitivity. Roswell Dental Care offers some of the most innovative whitening techniques, including the newest GLO SCIENCE, available to greatly improve your smile and the way you feel about yourself. Our office offers exceptional combination of state-of-the-art technology with an overall wellness approach to dental health and appearance. Once you have achieved that cosmetic update it is vital that you take precautions to keep it beautiful.
• Follow good oral hygiene practices. Brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss at least once daily to remove plaque. • Beware of many over the counter teeth bleaching products that are highly PH acidic. These products can cause tooth surface loss and sensitivity. • Limit your daily consumption of coffee, red wine and dark colored sodas and drinks such as cranberry juice tend to discolor and stain your teeth over time. After drinking these beverages, it is a good idea to clean and brush right after. • Blueberries, cherries and other highly pigmented foods tend to also discolor and stain your teeth over time. After eating these foods it is also a good idea to clean and brush right after. • Should you choose to drink carbonated drinks and dark colored sodas do so with a straw! This will allow food dyes to bypass teeth altogether. • Don’t smoke. Besides staining your teeth, smoking causes bad breath and increases the risk of gum disease and numerous types of cancer. • Many foods act as natural detergents to clean teeth. Chewing foods like apples, carrots, strawberries and celery help to naturally maintain a healthier cleaner and whiter smile. • Chew sugarless gum, this helps clean the surfaces of your teeth by stimulating saliva in your mouth. • Drink lots of water! Rinse your mouth thoroughly. At Roswell Dental Care, we promise personal and professional service as extraordinary as the innovative technology we use for our procedures. We offer the newest tooth whitening procedures available and together, we will evaluate your needs and determine the best solution to satisfy you. Be sure to ask about our Valentine’s Day Special Whitening Special for all new and existing patients. We were recently voted Best Dentist of North Atlanta in “The Best of the Best” contest, and we can help you maintain that healthy smile for a lifetime. Dr. David Remaley has been treating patients like family for over 30 years in Roswell and the North Atlanta area. We always welcome new patients! We will be happy to offer a COMPLMENTARY evaluation if you or any family member is experiencing any dental complications or discomfort. Give our office a call at (470) 375-9243 to schedule an appointment.
February 2018
health & wellness • Sponsored Section
Types of Skin Cancer:
Why it’s important to have annual check-ups with your dermatologist Skin cancer is among the most diagnosed cancers each year. Three commonly diagnosed skin cancers are Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, & Melanoma. The most common kind of skin cancer is called Basal Cell Carcinoma. This type of cancer is slow growing & typically occurs in patients that are 40 or older. Basal cells are ordinary skin cells that can later become cancerous, commonly on parts of the body that are often exposed to the sun. Patients with a lighter complexion are more likely to develop this form of cancer. Although Basal Cell Carcinoma can spread, it is not common for it to spread throughout the entire body. A symptom of this cancer is having a skin lesion that looks shiny & pink. It can also be slightly raised or flat on the skin. Another form of skin cancer that develops in the middle layer of the skin is known as Squamous Cell Carcinoma. This type can spread throughout the body & is generally more aggressive than Basal Cell Carcinoma. This cancer
is more likely to occur in those 50 or older & can appear to be a rapid pink growth that is hard. Melanoma, although not as common as Basal Cell or Squamous Cell Carcinoma, is the most concerning skin cancer, with high morbidity & mortality rates. Melanoma tends to be dark & can develop from an existing mole. Depending on the kind of melanoma involved, surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation can be possible treatments for Melanoma. Self skin checks are important as early detection is key to getting the best outcome from treatments of skin cancers. However, some lesions can be misinterpreted & some parts of the body are not accessible to patients. This is why it is very important you have your annual skin check with your dermatologist. Johns Creek Dermatology & Family Medicine 6300 Hospital Parkway, Suite 100 Johns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 771-6591
Dermatology and Family Medicine
northfulton.com 13
Specialist in Integrative Oncology Cancer Treatments Including: IV Vitamin C Fractionated Chemotherapy
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By: Jonathan Stegall, MD Nutrition is one of the most confusing topics, especially as it relates to cancer treatment. If you are like most people, you probably wonder if you are eating the foods you should be eating, and if the effort stegall will ultimately make a difference. Thankfully, we have good research to guide us as to what we should – and should not – be eating. Focus on organic fruits and vegetables for the bulk of your nutrition. High quality protein sources, such as grass fed beef, organic chicken, free range eggs, and occasionally, wild-caught fish (not farm raised) are all beneficial. Some grains, especially organic oats and quinoa, are helpful. You should also be eating some healthy fat, such as coconuts, avocados, nuts, and nut butters. These provide outstanding nutrition as well. Avoid processed food that comes in a box or bag, as well as white sugar,
Dr. Zack Charkawi Family Medicine
• Double Board Certified • 17 Years Experience • Annual Physicals • Cardiovascular Disease • Diabetes • Weight Loss
white flour, high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, and trans fats. These additives provide no benefit to the body, and in many cases, they can be harmful. I explain to patients that getting quality vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from food is our foundation. Don’t fall for the notion that nutrition doesn’t matter, or that you can simply take supplements to make up for a poor diet. I can be reached at (770) 551-2730.
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10700 Medlock Bridge Road Suite 207 • Johns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 551-2730 www. drstegall.com
6300 Hospital Pkwy, Suite 100 Johns Creek, GA 30097
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Sponsored Section • health & wellness
February 2018
Contact lens research Is that my coffee cup? is here in Johns Creek Do you wear contact lenses? Can you imagine a world without them? Over the past few decades improvements in contact lens optics and material enhancements have dramatically improved the wearing experience of users globally. Looking forward, there is much to anticipate in the future of contact lenses beyond vision correction. Contact lenses may act as biosensors, drug delivery devices or in virtual/ augmented reality. As futuristic as these ideas may sound, researchers are on the brink of bringing these technologies to life. Advancements in engineering and chemistry certainly drive new contact lens innovations, but clinical data is crucial to bring new products and product enhancements to the market. That’s where we at the Johns Creek Research Clinic come in and that’s how you may help…. Our staff thrives on vision care research. As we are not a primary care clinic, we are dedicated to clinical research that enhances product development. In our program, qualified
By: Barbara Rahn RN CPCP, Enhanced Beauty Permanent Makeup
participants gain the opportunity to try new investigational contact lens designs, materials, and lens care systems and provide feedback which directly influences next generation goods. Our mission is to help deliver enhanced vision care products that can improve vision, quality of life and customer satisfaction. With over 45 combined years of clinical and ophthalmic research experience, the clinicians and staff at the Johns Creek Research Clinic bring top-notch vision care research to Johns Creek, GA. Interested in learning more about our program and how you can become involved? Stop by and meet us or give us a call to learn more about this exciting opportunity right here in the North Atlanta area.
Are you tired of refreshing your lip color several times per day? Are you hiding your inventory of $25 lipsticks from your spouse? Do your lips seem to be shrinking and losing their shape and fullness? And the absolute worst, are you leaving your “mark” on every Starbucks latte’ you sip? Winter is the best time to consider permanent lip color. A natural appearing, soft lip line can give your lips the definition they need. If you have uneven symmetry of the lips, that can be adjusted for a more balanced smile. You will never regret having permanent, pretty lip color. I can apply full lip color in subtle, soft tones or in a bright, vibrant color. Whichever you choose, your lips will appear fuller and brighter. You will love the effect it has on your smile. Many clients tell me that they occasionally change their lip color. There is no reason why you can’t add a different shade for that special Saturday night. Your base color will always be pretty. The process is simple. I use only
high quality, medical grade anesthetic. The vermillion line (where the natural lip color meets the skin) is drawn and the final template is approved. A tray is prepared with one-time-use/disposable products. The color is applied with very little trauma to the delicate lip tissue. The entire process takes less time than you would imagine. Aftercare products and instructions are provided. Soon you will have pretty lips 24/7. There will be no more breaks during the day to refresh your lipstick. The days of lip color smudging your teeth or feathering outside of your lip line are gone. A followup appointment is scheduled a few weeks after the initial procedure to assess the healing process and do any minor touchups that may be needed. I am offering $200 off to Northside Woman/Herald readers now through Valentine’s Day. Mention this article when scheduling. Call 404.548.4148 for your appointment or go to my website, www.EBpermanentmakeup. com to request an appointment. I am also on Facebook at Enhanced Beauty Permanent Makeup and Instagram at EBpermanentmakeup.
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Johns Creek Research Clinic
11460 Johns Creek Pkwy Johns Creek, GA 30097 678-415-3800 JCRCVisionStudy@prahs.com www.JohnsCreekResearchClinic.com
Look your best 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our makeup doesn’t smear, melt in warm temperatures, smudge or rub off. When considering permanent makeup, it’s important to select a clinician that is experienced and will strive to exceed your expectations.
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Barbara Rahn, RN, CPCP 1000 Abernathy Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30328 ebpermanentmakeup.com 404.548.4148
February 2018
health & wellness • Sponsored Section
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Gaining control over your fitness and your life For many people, aging equals lower metabolism, weight gain and less energy for activities you enjoy. This is directly related to loss of lean muscle. While you can’t avoid getting older, there are some steps you can take to stop the process of muscle loss and start rebuilding healthy, lean muscle. It doesn’t matter how old you are or whether you haven’t exercised in years. You can still regain lean muscle that improves your shape and increases your metabolism. Our downfall is inactivity. Too much sitting is the new smoking. Our bodies were meant to be active, stay active and be strong. When we stop doing meaningful exercise, we lose ground. What is meaningful exercise? A critical component of stimulating the improvements we seek from exercise is the achievement of momentary muscular failure in each exercise performed. With steady-state activities, like walking on a treadmill or biking, there is no momentary muscular failure involved. Unless activity is demanding, it is practically worthless from an exercise perspective. However, if an activity is sufficiently demanding to take the targeted muscles to momentary failure, then it qualifies as meaningful exercise. Muscle failure should be viewed as a means of signaling the body that it needs to get stronger in order to meet the demands being placed upon it. What is the SuperSlow Zone solution? The SuperSlow Zone protocol is the original and genuine slow-motion, personal strength training workout. The exercise protocol has been proven successful in both building muscle and increasing resting metabolism, thus allowing the body to burn more calories at rest. SuperSlow Zone provides a safe and effective workout in a short amount of time so that you can get in, get out, and get on with your busy life!
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Sponsored Section • health & wellness
February 2018
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