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Health Wellness June Special Section
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Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
June 2014
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Summer numbers By GWINNETT MEDICAL CENTER-DULUTH School is out. Vacation is in. Temperatures and humidity are on the rise. With this in mind, here are a few need-to-know numbers to stay healthy and have fun this summer. 30 - Sunscreen SPF “I recommend sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for most people,” says Cynthia Dolan, MD, a GMC-affiliated dermatologist. “Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays causes DNA damage to the skin with every skin exposure, whether it’s tan or burn. This DNA damage builds up with a delayed effect, so we don’t see it until our 20s, 30s, 40s and so on. “At least 50 percent of the skin cancers we see occur on the face, head or neck areas,” adds Dr. Dolan. “Sunscreen is tried and true. I put it on my face, neck and ears, rain or shine, and I tell my patients to do the same.” She recommends reapplying every 1.5 to two hours. 101 - Air Quality Index Code Orange According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, an air quality index of 101 or more (Code Orange) is when pollutant levels are considered to be
unhealthy for certain groups of individuals, and those people should limit outdoor exposure. Paul Weinberg, MD, a GMC-affiliated pulmonologist, says that the elderly and people with emphysema, asthma or cardiac disease can experience illness during days when pollutant levels are deemed unhealthy. “Individuals with asthma and emphysema have damaged airways that make them more sensitive to the environment,” says Dr. Weinberg. “Pollutants such as ozone, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, at this point in time, are not thought to cause disease, but can make the underlying disease worse by causing inflammation in the airways.” 102 - Degrees Fahrenheit “The symptoms of heat exhaustion are over-sweating, fatigue and a core body temperature of 102 degrees Fahrenheit,” says Tim Simmons, MHA, ATC, LAT, director of the Sports Medicine Program at GMC-Duluth. When the body loses its ability to cool and regulate itself, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur. According to the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, heat causes more deaths in the US than any other weather event. “From mild heat cramps to lifethreatening heat stroke, heat illnesses are cumulative,” says Simmons, “so if you have one, there’s an increased chance to have another.” 6 - Tips to Beat the Heat “If you begin to feel any symptoms of heat-related illness,” Simmons says, “get out of the heat early and completely, and get your body temperature down.” Get a good night’s sleep. Wear light-colored lightweight cloth-
ing. Hydrate properly before, during and after your activity. Avoid caffeine. Drink appropriate sports drinks to replenish lost electrolytes. Avoid the outdoors between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you have to be outside, hydrate often and take frequent breaks out of the heat to cool off. Acclimate to the heat over a period of time if possible. For more summer tips, read Gwinnett Medical Center’s magazine, Vim & Vigor, online at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/vigor.
ADHD – not just in children anymore Adult ADHD is associated with multiple comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and other personality disorders. Adult ADHD is a valid psychiatric disorder of adulthood distinct from these other conditions. Adult attention deficit disorder differs from the childhood variant because the hyperactivity in adults may be replaced by other symptoms such as anxiety, impulsivity and inattentiveness. In fact, prior to 2002 there were no diagnostic guidelines, but there have been great advances since. Some of the symptoms that characterize Adult ADHD are:
ADHD is a relatively common psychiatric disorder among adults. The prevalence is thought to be 3.5%-5.3%, which accounts for more than 11 million cases in the United States alone. With increased public awareness, adult ADHD became a topic of great interest so clinicians should be able to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with this disorder. Etiology is still uncertain. Genetics however is believed to play a prominent role, followed in importance by acquired injuries to the brain. ADHD was widely thought to be strictly a disorder of childhood. Now there are numerous scientific papers and clinical trials that acknowledge the existence of an adult version of this disorder, which can be traced back to the younger years. Before this time ADHD in adults was known as Minimal Brain Damage or Dysfunction (MBD).
1. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in school-work, work or other activities. 2. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities. 3. Often does not seem to listen when spoke to directly. 4. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand directions) 5. Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities. 6. Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (eg. School assignments, pencils, keys) 7. Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli. PAID ADVERTORIAL
8. Is often forgetful in daily activities.
Some children with ADHD continue to have it as adults. And many adults who have the disorder don’t know it. They may feel that it is impossible to get organized, keep a job, or remember and keep appointments. Daily tasks such as getting up in the morning, preparing to leave the house for work, arriving at work on time, and being productive on the job can be especially challenging for adults with ADHD. These adults may have a history of failure at school, problems at work, failed relationships and traffic accidents. Like teens, adults with ADHD may seem restless and may try to complete several tasks as once, most of them unsuccessfully. They also tend to prefer “quick fixes,” rather than taking the steps needed to achieve greater rewards. Treatment is very rewarding. The first medications to be approved by the FDA belonged to a non-stimulant group of medications: Atomoxetine. The FDA later approved stimulants such as methylphenidate and mixed amphetamine salts. Group delivered cognitive behavioral therapy is recommended in some cases as a supportive treatment. If you or someone you know may have Adult ADHD, call Johns Creek Family Medicine at 770-771-6591 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Zack Charkawi.
June 2014
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
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Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
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The Perfect Fit – For Your EARS and Your WORLD
Our computers. Our cell phones. Our cars. Our homes. Our own bodies. The marvels of technology have allowed us to be “connected” to the tools we use in our daily lives, and depending on the decade you were born in, refuse to live without. As the world around us continues becoming more “tech” oriented, should not our ability to hear at a high level of detail keep up as well? If you find yourself “missing” some of this detail you are not alone. 36 million Americans experience hearing challenges in various environ-
ments and situations. This group is clearly at a disadvantage when communicating in this “new world”. As the community’s leading link to better hearing over the past 16 years, Dr. Deborah Woodward and her staff have successfully led thousands of hearing challenged patients to a more enjoyable and fulfilling life. Dr. Woodward and the Johns Creek Audiology and Hearing Center offers patients not only improved day to day communication, but also the solutions to those challenging
listening environments. These include restaurants, group meeting rooms, phone communication, and yes, that age old argument between spouses on the “correct” loudness of the television volume. With the invention of wireless connections such as Bluetooth, Dr. Woodward can “plug” patients directly into the audio of a phone, a TV, a computer, or any other device patients may need to use throughout the day. You can now use the phone that is ALREADY in your pocket or purse to fine tune your hearing to fit the
In an emergency, experience matters Emergencies happen. And when they do, rest assured that you’ll get the best care close to home. Northside’s board-certified emergency medicine physicians and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certified nurses are just right up the road. We hope we don’t have to see you, but if we do, you’ll be in the best possible hands. Visit us online at www.northside.com.
various situations you encounter. Also, you can make or receive calls and stream your music straight to your
hearing devices! As for phone calls, Johns Creek Audiology can provide the optimal solution resulting in a very clear conversation in both ears simultaneously without fidgeting with the placement of the phone and without feedback from your hearing device while trying to talk! Extended wear, invisible to others, and no batteries to change! THE FUTURE IS NOW! If you have a mild to moderate hearing loss, this cutting edge option may be right for you. Call today and schedule your 2 week – NO RISK – free trial. With all the devices now
available to assist the hearing challenged, you truly need the expertise of a Doctor of Audiology and a Center with a proven
TRUST record to help plan your personal and unique solution to “better” hearing. Johns Creek Audiology and Hearing Center can also provide diagnostic testing for hearing disorders, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, and ear wax management. All major insurance plans are accepted, no interest finance plans are offered, and Saturday appointments are available. JCA is also offering complimentary ‘Summer’ hearing aid cleanings and inspections. Please call (770)8141260 to take advantage of this offer. THE MOST IMPORTANT COMPONET OF HEARING TECHNOLOGY IS TRUST
June 2014
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New Chiropractic Technology... Old Fashioned, Personalized Care Seven Signs of Stress • Headaches • Fatigue • Sleep Disturbances • Low Back Pain
Stand tall “Stand up straight!” “Stop slouching!” Most of us learn about posture from our parents saying these words. The importance of posture to our physical and emotional health has been overlooked far too long. We know a person with great posture, standing tall and erect, can create an image of self-confidence and pride. While a person with poor posture gives off the opposite impression. There are much greater negative effects than “image” from poor posture, much greater than not “looking our best”. There are real clinical syndromes associated with certain posture profiles. The most common is the “Forward Head” profile. It’s so common that 90% of patients present with it. This profile of head over the shoulders and increased low back curve is a masterful thief of health. It robs its victims of normal range of motion, muscle
strength, natural neck protection, long joint life, vital lung capacity, and the healthy vitality we should expect into our later years. There is good news! POOR POSTURE CAN BE CORRECTED IN AS LITTLE AS FOUR WEEKS! Correcting poor posture begins with a non-invasive digital analysis which establishes a “posture number”. This number is used to identify the extent of poor posture, and to provide guidelines for correcting it. Next, a series of gentle computerized spinal adjustment sessions using the Pulstar system is started in conjunction with specific posture correcting exercises. These protocols are designed to reverse spinal muscle changes and reprogram muscles back to their original positions. In many cases this means a return to correct posture in about four weeks. Contact Hudec Chiropractic Center to schedule a consultation 770-641-7811.
• Neck Pain • Sciatica • Poor Posture
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HUDEC CHIROPRACTIC CENTER
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The body is self-healing, when given proper nutrition and care. At Abundant Life Wellness, we work with you to address the underlying cause of your health issue, not just the symptoms. • Holistic Wellness for Adults and Children • Acute and Chronic Care • Homeopathic, Herbal and Nutritional Therapies • ZYTO Bioenergetic Assessment • Lymphatic Drainage Therapy • Ionic Footbath • Broad-Spectrum Infrared Sauna • Detox Packages • Advanced Relaxation Therapy Room
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770.663.7898
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Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
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Georgetown Pediatrics’ Peach Kids Triathlon
Sunscreen dangers Despite the national sunscreen usage campaign, new melanoma cases among American adults tripled between 1975 and 2010. A contributing factor might be that many sunscreens contain toxic chemicals, including oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate, powerful free-radical generators that disrupt normal cell function. Oxybenzone is an endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen and has been linked to endometriosis in older women. Retinyl palmitate speeds the development of skin tumors when applied to sun-exposed skin, and increases the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen completely blocks the UVB rays that help the body produce Vitamin D, which is essential for immune system function and as a preventative to cancers, including melanoma.
To optimize Vitamin D production, get sun exposure to at least 40 percent of the body for 30 minutes daily, with no sunscreen except for the face. If staying in the sun longer, use mineral-based sunscreen to prevent burn. Look for sunscreen with natural ingredients like zinc, coconut oil, glycerine, shea butter and beeswax. Build sunscreen from the inside out by eating an antioxidant-rich diet of fresh, raw vegetables and unprocessed foods high in omegas. Supplement with 4 mg daily of astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant produced by marine algae that increases the amount of time necessary for UV to redden skin. For more information on safe sun exposure, visit Abundant Life Wellness www.abundantlifewellnessga.com, 770.663.7898.
Georgetown Pediatrics, P.C. is one of the oldest private practices serving the Atlanta community since 1968. With our four offices, we are strategically located in Alpharetta, Cumming, Johns Creek, and Dunwoody markets. Our doctors are all board certified as Fellows of the American Academy of Pediatrics and our nurse practitioners all hold the Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioners certification. We are committed to delivering the highest quality of care with unparalleled execution to patients from birth to the age of twenty-one. As board-certified practitioners, we are committed to fighting an ever increasing crisis like childhood obesity in our community. With this focus, we are excited to announce our first annual Georgetown Pediatrics’ Peach Kids Triathlon. It is our desire to connect with community partners in an effort to promote the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. We are focused on helping families reverse childhood obesity by having them engage in activities such as the triathlon which promotes fitness and physical conditioning. We have recently partnered with Georgia MultiSports Productions to host the Georgetown Pediatrics’ Peach Kids Triathlon on July 6, 2014 at Windward’s Lake Club in Alpharetta, Georgia. We are excited about this partnership and hope to see you on
July 6th. For more information and/or to register your children for this event, please contact one of our four offices or visit www.gamultisports.com. For more information about our practice, please visit us at www. georgetownpediatrics.com, like us on Facebook or meet us at our Expectantly Expecting Class on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
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Snoozing in the dental chair New Treatment Offers hope for the Dental Phobic By DR. USHMA PATEL Center For Advanced Dentistry Millions of Americans avoid the dentist. Some had traumatic experiences as children. Others suffered pain as adults. Still more were swayed by stereotypes in movies or parental horror stories. No matter the reason, far too many of these individuals simply stopped seeking routine dental care because they were frightened. Even when they were faced with such warning signs as pain in their mouths or gums these individuals still failed to visit the dentist. Now they’re jeopardizing not only their dental state but their overall health status. If this sounds like you, we want to help. Whether you’ve been postponing a simple dental checkup, construction and repair or a brand-new smile, now’s the time to take better care of yourself. Now’s the time to move forward into a healthier future. Modern dentistry offers many new tools and options that make necessary treatments not only tolerable but even comfortable. Are you afraid of the dentist or have been putting it off ? For some people going to the dentist can be a terrifying experience. The drills, the smells and oh, that awful needle! But now there’s a new way for the dentally challenged to get their needed treatment without having to go through all the fear and anxiety. And, what’s more, they likely won’t even remember going to the dentist. It’s called “Sedation Dentistry” and is available right now at Dr Ushma Patel’s dental office. Not all dentists are qualified or licensed to use this option. Approximately 1 in 8 dentists in Georgia is licensed to do Sedation. “The way it works is quite simple,” says Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Suwanee dentist Dr. Ushma Patel. “One hour before the appointment the patient simply takes a pill that we have dispensed to them. By the time they arrive for their appointment they are very relaxed.” The patient is then escorted to the dental chair. They gradually progress to a deeper level of sedation but are still able to respond to their environment and to questions from the doctor. Dr. Ushma Patel explains, “The patient will feel no pain and in fact will have little or no memory of the experience after it’s all over.” The patient’s vital signs are constantly monitored throughout the treatment. “When they awaken a friend drives them home and in an hour or so they are pretty much back to normal,” says Dr. Ushma Patel. “The best part is that they have no bad memories, and they don’t experience any pain or anxiety.” The patient isn’t “knocked out” or in total
sedation like they would be for a surgery. The level of sedation isn’t that deep, but just deep enough so that they feel nothing but are still conscious Dr. Ushma Patel says, “We find that while some patients have a deep fear of dental treatment, there are many who also have a deeper fear of being “put under.” Their actual fear centers around losing control or not being able to perceive what’s going on around them. Sedation Dentistry is a happy medium. They are still under control and understand what’s happening – they just don’t feel anything or have any anxiety about it.” Is Sedation Dentistry only for dental chickens? Dr. Ushma Patel says no. “Some people, while they are not at all afraid of dental treatment, are highly resistant to anesthetic. They just can’t get numb. Other people simply don’t have the time to make repeated visits to the dentist and would rather have all their work done in one longer visit. Sedation Dentistry takes care of both problems.” Since dental phobics tend to put off their dental care, sometimes for many years, they usually need quite a bit of treatment - sort of a Catch 22 situation. But with Sedation Dentistry, literally years of treatment can be accomplished in just a single visit. For more information on Sedation Dentistry call Dr. Ushma Patel at 678894-7926 or visit them on the web at www.JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com. If this sounds like you or a loved one or someone you know then please let them know that they have an option now.
The Johns Creek Audiology & Hearing Aid Center provides the most innovative treatment options and technology available today to improve hearing. On-site audiology services are provided by a staff who is medically trained to assess your current hearing profile. Call Today and schedule your visit to update your hearing sensitivity and we can explore the options together. We can accommodate every budget – ASK US HOW!
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Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
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Milan Eye Center welcomes eye cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kiran Sajja Milan Eye Center is excited to announce the arrival of Dr. Kiran Sajja, a Board-Certified ophthalmologist specializing in functional and cosmetic eyelid and facial surgery. Dr. Sajja has a unique blend of experience, compassion and artistry that he shares with each and every patient. With the addition of Dr. Sajja, Milan Eye Center will expand the unsurpassed level of care and services provided to the Atlanta community. Dr. Sajja cares for patients with a wide variety of conditions, including eyelid
droopiness, eyelid bagginess, and tearing. Eyelid ptosis or “eyelid droopiness” is most often related to stretching or detachment of the muscle used to open your eyes. Over time, this condition can interfere with your vision resulting in a decreased field of view or overall dimming of your vision. Common complaints often include needing more light to read, difficulty driving, and headaches. Eyelid ptosis is often associated with a tired or disinterested appearance. This condition can be corrected with a quick, minimally-invasive
outpatient surgical procedure which is often covered by your medical insurance. Eyelid dermatochalasis or “eyelid bagginess” is related to stretching and thinning of the eyelid skin. This often affects both the upper and lower eyelids giving a puffy or wrinkled appearance. At times, the excess skin can rest on or over your eyelashes interfering with your vision. Other common complaints include eyelid redness or itchiness, tearing, or headache. Women often note difficulty applying and maintaining eye make-up,
Milan Eye Center
Welcomes
such as mascara, eyeliner or eye shadow. This condition can be significantly improved with an easy outpatient surgical procedure. An evaluation with SAJJA Dr. Sajja would determine if the procedure is covered by your medical insurance.Tearing or “watery eyes” can be separated into two main issues: producing too many tears or not effectively draining the tears away. Common complaints include blurred vision, itchiness, redness and discharge. During an evaluation with Dr. Sajja, he will perform a comprehensive examination of your eyes and your tear drainage system to determine the possible causes of your watery eyes. Based on your symptoms and examination, Dr. Sajja will discuss a treatment regimen including diet, medication and surgical intervention. Many procedures
are performed in the office with little to no down time; and are often covered by your medical insurance. In addition, Dr. Sajja has considerable experience in cosmetic concerns of the eyelids and face employing advanced surgical techniques and facial injectibles, such as Botox®, Juvederm® XC, Belotero®, and Restylane®. Dr. Sajja will perform a detailed evaluation and provide recommendations to allow you to achieve a balanced, youthful and energetic appearance. Dr. Sajja will be joining Milan Eye Center on June 9th. Call 678-688-4575 for more information on Dr. Sajja and his procedures. Milan Eye Center has four convenient locations around Atlanta: Johns Creek, Cumming, Canton, and Buford. Milan Eye Center is a premier ophthalmology practice and is affiliated with Atlanta’s finest hospitals including Northside Forsyth, Northside Cherokee, and Emory Johns Creek Hospital.
Dermatology and Family Medicine Family Medicine F M Geriatrics Diagnosis & Treatment Of Adult ADHD
Kiran Sajja, M.D. Joining Milan Eye Center in June Dr. Sajja’s procedures include: Eyelid Lifts, Blepharoplasty, Botox and Fillers.
Dr. Kiran Sajja is a Board-Certified ophthalmologist who specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of the eyelids, face, orbit and lacrimal system. At Milan Eye Center, Dr. Sajja has dedicated his practice to reconstructive and aesthetic oculofacial plastic surgery.
Dr. Zack Charkawi
Johns Creek Family Medicine for the Extra Level of Care
• Comprehensive medical care for the entire family for pediatric adult and geriatric patients • Caring, thorough, and individualized philosophy
Milan R. Patel, M.D. Niraj Desai, M.D. Gina Borgnini, O.D. Cataract & Refractive Cataract & Refractive Optometrist Surgeon Surgeon
Look for our ad series and visit us at www.MilanEyeCenter.com for more information on specific services and ways to learn more.
Priyal Gadani, O.D. Optometrist
2011 and 2012 One of America’s Top Doctors by U.S. News and World Report
6300 Hospital Pkwy, Suite 325 | Johns Creek 970 Sanders Rd, Suite 100 | Cumming
Learn more at
www.MilanEyeCenter.com
Call today for a consultation 678-688-4575
• Well trained warm and efficient staff • Accepting new patients and sick walk in • Office welcomes most insurances including Medicare
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6300 Hospital Parkway, Suite 100 Johns Creek, GA 30097 770.771.6591 www.johnscreekdermatology.com
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A difference you can see. Johns Creek and Suwanee’s source for exceptional eyecare: • Comprehensive Ophthalmology • Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus • Cataract Surgery • LASIK and Refractive Surgery • Oculoplastic Surgery and Cosmetic Services • Optometry • Eyewear and Contact Lenses for all ages
Teaching your children to wear sunglasses at a young age is very important for their vision. Recent studies have shown that the earlier children start wearing sunglasses while outdoors, the better their chances of avoiding major eye health problems later in life. Here are some tips from Thomas Eye Group that you can follow to help protect your children’s eyes this summer: Purchase sunglasses with a polycarbonate lens to block harmful UV rays. Use protective eyewear such as Rec Specs or safety goggles to avoid sports related injuries. Keep children at least 500 feet away from exploding fireworks.
Consider goggles in the pool or ocean and use artificial tears after swimming. Watch for pink eye “conjunctivitis” which can be easily spread during summer activities. Contact your eye doctor right away at the first sign of symptoms. People of all ages should take precautions to protect their eyes from the sun whenever they are outdoors. If you or your child experiences any eye discomfort or injury this summer, contact Thomas Eye Group at 770.809.3366. The Suwanee office is located at 1120 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Suite 101, Suwanee, GA 30024.
Heavy menstrual bleeding By DR. TSAKIRIS Almost every woman can recount an embarrassing episode involving an unexpected heavy menstrual flow and a white outfit. If these episodes are happening frequently you may have a condition known as menorrhagia. Menorrhagia can be from many medical problems including fibroids, endometrial polyps, hormone disturbances, and even in some cases cancer. Many women can become so anemic that they may require a blood transfusion. A few decades ago this condition would have been treated with a hysterectomy. This is a major surgery with possible complications and traditionally 6 weeks out of work. Today we have many other options. For example, birth control pills and progesterone medications can be effective in reducing blood flow. The Mirena IUD is a form of contraception that is long acting, can be placed in an office visit, and generally eliminates the menstrual flow. We also have an in office procedure called an endometrial ablation that is quick and very effective in reducing or eliminating menstrual periods. This procedure is generally done with a twilight sleep, although, in some cases can be done without anesthesia. The procedure takes approximately 20 minutes and since there is no surgical incision recovery time is less than 24 hours. Most
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Chattahoochee Gynecology Laura A. Tsakiris, M.D. 6610 McGinnis Ferry Rd, Suite 100, Duluth
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Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
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Sleep apnea: A serious health risk Provided by Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center Sleep apnea is a chronic disorder that occurs when a person experiences repeated pauses in breathing, sometimes hundreds of times a night, and often for a minute or longer. As a result, people who suffer from sleep apnea are unable to reach the deepest, most restful stages of sleep and often feel sluggish throughout the day. Types of Sleep Apnea There are two types of sleep apena: Obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open, despite efforts to breathe. Central sleep apnea, in which the brain fails to properly control breathing during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is far more common than central sleep apnea. Although a person may experience episodes of choking or gasping for air throughout the night, he
or she may not remember the next morning, and as such, many cases go undiagnosed. Left untreated, studies show that sleep apnea increases your risk of developing other life threatening illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. Lack of sleep may also worsen depression and cause extreme daytime sleepiness. The risk of falling asleep behind the wheel is three times more common in patients with obstructive sleep apnea than in the rest of the population. Symptoms and Risk Factors Sleep apnea can affect anyone, at any age, but you’re more likely to have sleep apnea if you are overweight, a male, over the age of 40, have a family history of the condition, and/or suffer from nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum, allergies and sinus problems. Snoring is a major sign of sleep apnea, but it’s not the only one. Seek advice from your health care provider immediately if you:
Have been sleeping poorly for a month or more Are drowsy throughout the day Have been told by your bed mate that you snore loudly, have pauses in breathing or make strange noises in sleep Wake up with a very sore or dry throat Occasionally wake up with
a choking or gasping sensation Have morning headaches Experience forgetfulness, mood changes, and a decreased interest in sex Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center As the first fully accredited sleep disorders center in Georgia by the American Academy
of Sleep Medicine, The Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Centers uses only the latest technology to diagnose and treat sleep disorders for adolescents and adults. Physician referrals are usually not needed. For more information or to find a location near you, call (404) 236-8200 or visit www.northside.com/sleep.
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6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500 • Suwanee, GA
“I believe everyone should be given the opportunity to learn how they can make their smile healthy and it is my goal to teach all my patients on a 1 on 1 platform what we can do to help them achieve that perfect smile.” – Dr. Soulimiotis
9925 Haynes Bridge Road | Suite 700 | Johns Creek, GA 30022 (located in the Haynes Bridge Publix Shopping Center)
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HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
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Haynes Bridge Dental Care introduces dental concierge membership Every month there are new scientific studies released that link Oral Health (and more specifically Periodontitis) to other more serious health risks, including heart disease, stroke and respiratory disease. Yet many individuals forgo regular dental care for themselves and for their children because they do not have dental insurance. Take a look at some of these figures: • In 2008, 4.6 million children went without needed dental care because their families lacked the financial means to pay for it. • When people don’t visit the dentist regularly, they end up in the emergency room. 60,000 ER visits for nontraumatic dental problems or other oral health issues cost Georgia taxpayers more than $23 million according to recent
Pew report. • The Surgeon General reports that more than 64 million work hours are lost each year because of untreated dental problems. Treatment of dental issues can help reduce the risk of more severe, and costly, medical conditions. Routine dental visits are the key to prevention. But even more troubling is the fact that families who have dental insurance still end up having to pay large amounts out-of-pocket, because their annual coverage comes with a maximum benefit. For example, if you total your car, your insurance coverage will likely provide you with a new one. Dental insurance? You’ll pay 50% for three new tires and then the annual maximum runs out. You will still need to pay 100% out-of-pocket for
the steering wheel, engine, and paint (that’s cosmetic!). Access to affordable, personalized and comprehensive dental care is important. Haynes Bridge Dental Care located in Johns Creek - has created an exclusive Dental Concierge Membership program for the Johns Creek Community that is straightforward and open to anyone. No Deductibles. No Claims Process. No Maximum Annual Benefit! This program is available for employers and individuals. It allows members to pay a monthly fee and gain access to heavily discounted dental services (discounted at an average of 55%!).More importantly, Haynes Bridge Dental Care is not a big corporate dental practice that will force you to see a different doctor each time you visit. Their
So big deal, a little inflammation By LESLIE GASKILL, M.D. Exactly,….. BIG DEAL! Inflammation is not something to take lightly. Let’s put it this way, if you came across a smoldering fire in your house, you wouldn’t just walk away...would you? I suspect that you would consider this an important matter to tend to, because you know that even a small smoldering fire could quickly become a big rip roaring fire that could burn your house down. Your thought process might be something like, “don’t panic, just put the fire out; and put the fire out fast.!” You might even say “Whew, I am glad I caught that fire while it was small, and thank God that I just happened to walk in here and see this.” Yeh, it would be an emotional and financial disaster to lose your home. So what if we were talking about your life? All it takes is ONE fire to cause an event i.e heart attack and stroke. There are many causes of inflammation that can ultimately cause your arteries to be fragile. The arteries can suddenly rupture as plaque pushes through the wall like a volcano. A clot is formed, blocking the flow and BOOM. You have a heart attack or stroke. What causes inflammation? Great question. Stress, bad diet, migraines, autoimmune diseases( like lupus and psoriasis), smoking, cholesterol, insulin resistance, prediabetes, diabetes, PCOS, liver disease, sleep disorders, and, periodontal disease to just name a few. Don’t get a false sense of security if you are a marathon runner, passed your stress test, calcium score, and even have a phenomenal cholesterol profile. Stay tuned to hear more from us and Plaque Busters in the national arena. If you are serious about your life, and your life is a priority, we can
dental practice is family-owned and offers a comprehensive set of dental services, including Preventative, high-end Cosmetic and Restorative, including special services for Seniors.Call
Haynes Bridge Dental Care today at 470.297.6700 or visit them online at www.HaynesBridgeDentalCare.com for more information on this program.
LESLIE S. GASKILL, M.D. For All Your Primary Care and Family Medicine Needs • Family Medicine • Internal Medicine • Gynecological Care • Integrative Medicine
• Laser Acupuncture • Cutting Edge Prevention of Heart Attacks, Strokes and Diabetes
See article at www.drlesliegaskill.com on “In the News” tab.
help you before it is too late. We are very experienced in a prevention strategy that works! It is tailored to YOU, your body and your genetics! Right now as spring approaches, most of you are wanting to “get the weight off”. We are excited about our new weight loss program and we will personally coach you. If you want to find out your genetic dietary pattern needs (we are all one of six patterns), we can help you learn how to eat for minimizing your risk of developing plaque and to help you lose weight most effectively for a lifetime. Yes, it’s true: we are not all genetically programmed to eat the same way! www.drlesliegaskill.com and www.plaquebusters.net Leslie S. Gaskill, M.D., LLC 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Ste 201 Johns Creek, Georgia 30097 770-495-9995
Leslie S. Gaskill, M.D., L.L.C. 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd. Bldg. 200, Suite 201 Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-495-9995 Drlesliegaskill.com Plaquebusters.net
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12 northfulton.com
Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
June 2014