Health & Wellness, April 2014 by Appen Media Group

Appen Media Group

Health Wellness

March Special Section

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Health Wellness Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS

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April 2014

SPONSORED SECTION

THE SEASON FOR SNEEZIN’ »

Allergy answers from Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth Nothing is quite as delightful this time of year as a field of wildflowers in bloom unless of course you have allergies. If that’s the case, you’re probably one of the 36 million Americans who wake up each spring morning with a runny nose, itchy eyes and a scratchy throat, all symptoms of seasonal allergies. But, Michael Pickford, MD, otolaryngologist with Gwinnett ENT says there is relief. “For 99 percent of patients with allergies, it is not a lifeand-death situation, but rather a quality-of-life issue,” he says. “Don’t waste your life suffering needlessly. You don’t have to put up with it.” Here, we help you understand your pesky seasonal allergies. How do you know if your

symptoms can be attributed to allergies? It can be challenging to differentiate between colds and allergies, but there are distinguishing signs. Allergy symptoms usually begin immediately after exposure to the allergen and last as long as you are exposed to it. You will probably experience itchy and watery eyes, a runny nose and sneezing, according to the Dr. Pickford. Cold symptoms typically take a few days to develop and subside within several days to a week. Symptoms of a cold usually include fever, aches and pains, and a runny nose or sneezing. “Many of the symptoms of colds and allergies are similar, and sometimes the only way to sort out the cause is to visit a

physician,” Dr. Pickford says. What can be done to prevent allergy symptoms? You don’t have to live in a bubble to avoid seasonal allergy attacks. There are steps you can take to avoid symptoms. Dr. Pickford recommends that allergy sufferers begin the spring season with a thorough household cleaning, because mold, dust and other allergens tend to collect during the winter. Pay attention to the pollen and mold counts, and avoid outdoor activities until 10 a.m., because pollen counts are highest in the morning. Allergens also are more widespread in hot, dry and windy conditions. When should you see a doctor about allergies? See a doctor if allergy symptoms become unmanage-

able or resistant to current methods of treatment. “A physician can help you find medications and dosages that will work best for you,” says Dr. Pickford. He also recommends speaking to your physician about allergy immunotherapy, also called allergy shots. “Certain allergic reactions require immediate medical attention, though,” he adds. “Talk to your doctor about your risk and to establish a plan of action in the event a serious reaction should occur.” Can surgery help allergies? Surgery can’t make the allergies go away, but surgery is sometimes an option to help your sinuses function better, according to Dr. Pickford. “Through minimally invasive sinus surgery techniques,

such as Balloon Sinuplasty™ and image-guided endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), the sinus passages can be enlarged and clogged sinuses drained.” Learn More Gwinnett Medical CenterDuluth is committed to improving the quality of life and outcomes for those who suffer with seasonal allergies. Learn more about sinus conditions and treatments at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/sinus or find a physician at 678-3125000.

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.

April 2014

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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,

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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 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

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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 people can get back to work the next day. Only your gynecologist can evaluate your particular problem and determine the best treatment for you. Be sure not to ignore your symptom of heavy menstrual flow or assume that it is a normal condition. With so many easy and effective options for treatment there is no reason not to get back to wearing white again while you are on your menses.

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Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS

April 2014

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What was that? By DR. DEBORAH WOODWARD How many mailers are in your box each day for hearing devices? If you think hearing devices are being marketed more and more these days you are correct. But with “hearing stores” popping up in every other strip mall, the warehouse clubs, magazine ads, and the internet, the confusion for those in need of assistance is increasing at the same rate. Facts, Myths, and Where do I start? Fact: Over 36 million Americans – more than 1 in every 10 - have some level of reduction in hearing sensitivity AND most people are amazed when they learn that 65% of these are BELOW retirement age! Myth: “If I had a real problem my family doctor would have told me.” Fact: Family physicians rarely incorporate hearing screenings as part of your annual physical (especially if you are under age 55). With limited training in the areas of hearing loss and assistive devices, contacting a Doctor of Audiology should be your first step if a problem is suspected. Myth: “I hear what I need to hear and get along fine.” Fact: You only hear what your hearing capacity PERMITS. Reality, for you, is now altered. ‘If you can’t hear it - how do you know you missed it?’ “Only my spouse complains.” “I ignore it. It doesn’t bother me.” “I just ask people not to mumble and speak up.” “No one I know likes their hearings aids.” “After I fix my teeth.” IT IS TIME TO BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF. People with untreated hearing loss experience a decreased quality of life. It has been proven to cause varied levels of sadness, depression, anxiety, paranoia, and poor social relationships. They also have more difficulty in their careers and often earn thousands of dollars less than their ‘hearing’ peers. HELP IS AVAILABLE and an achievable solution is not as challenging as you may think. Myth: “My insurance doesn’t cover hearing care.” Fact: Go to a credentialed Doctor of Audiology. They are able to contract with the major insurance companies. Complete diagnostic hear-

ing testing is typically covered once a year and more plans are now including hearing aid benefits of some type. In comparison, most other location types cannot access or file for your insurance benefits. Myth: I will save money if I buy on-line or at my warehouse club. I can buy them at low cost, stick them in, and “Shazaam- I can hear!” Do not be fooled by thinking you can pay one low price up front for your device(s) and you are good for years to come. The reality is that it takes the proper consultation, fitting, programming, and as needed FOLLOW-UP to become a happy and successful long term hearing instrument wearer. Fact: Like Dad used to say, you do get what you pay for. But better hearing can be achieved at even entrylevel price points from today’s plethora of high quality solutions. Those making the decision for the first time to better their quality of life are, in most cases, unaware of what the commitment entails or what questions to ask. Each person is unique and there is no “one solution fits all”, however, EVERY person will need some level of continued service and expert consultation. Warehouse clubs, and internet sites typically run on the business model of the seemingly attractive low upfront pricing with short warranty periods and, either zero, or very limited follow up services included. The right medical provider will offer you the CHOICE between a competitive yet still more inclusive ‘pay-asyou-go’ plan, or the more accepted plan that includes unlimited service and office visits plus longer warranties to ensure and continually enhance user satisfaction. Where do I begin? Consult with a Doctor of Audiology or a licensed Audiologist to properly determine the unique course of direction for YOUR individual success. These providers are medically trained and continually certified as hearing technology and options evolve. The knowledge and patience of your service provider to fit you with the very best option that meets your hearing needs AND budget will ensure that you can truly transform your quality of life. Dr. Deborah Woodward at the Johns Creek Audiology & Hearing Center has helped, and continues to direct, thousands of people in their individual journeys to hear more of what they did not even know they were missing.

April 2014

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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Surgeons on the cutting edge of technology once again The surgeons at Milan Eye Center have taken another step towards the modernization of cataract surgery. Milan Eye Center is very excited to announce the launch of our new App - ‘Easy Drops’ for our patients. ‘Easy Drops’aims to simplify eye drop regimens, educate the patient and promote better outcomes through better compliance. The App is free and available for iPhones and iPads. Support for Android devices will be upcoming. After having performed thousands of cataract surgery, we have come to learn from our patients that the most difficult part of having cataract, pterygium, or glaucoma surgery is the eye drop regimen that follows. When both eyes are operated upon – which is common with cataract surgery – keeping up with three to four different eye drops to be taken at different times of the day in two different eyes can get quite confusing, even for the most organized. Paper charts designed to help the patient keep track of their eye drops can get lost, aren’t convenient to carry

Create a sleep sanctuary to optimize slumber Optimal sleep is essential for good health. Cell regeneration, detoxification, release of growth hormone and muscle repair, all occur during sleep. Make the most of your sleep time by creating a sanctuary to ease your body into slumber mode: Room should be completely dark. Light disrupts the pineal gland, which produces melatonin, the hormone that regulates the sleep cycle and influences release of reproductive hormones. Unplug all electrical devices within three feet of bed. They produce EMFs, which disrupt the production of melatonin and the neurotransmitter serotonin. Some experts even recommend cutting the circuit breaker at night to completely reduce EMFs. Do not sleep with cell phone near you. Cell phones interfere with the length and quality of sleep. Put in another room to recharge overnight. Discontinue tv and computer use an hour before bedtime. Finish eating two hours before bedtime. Incorporate lavender essential oil into your bedtime routine. Add a few drops to warm bath water or sprinkle a

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few drops on your pillow case to relax. Follow these steps to ensure you have the restorative sleep your body needs. The use of OTC sleep aids is shown to significantly increase death risk and cancer risk. For sleep aid alternatives, visit www.AbundantLifeWellnessGA.com, 770.663.7898.

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everywhere and are, otherwise, an inefficient mechanism. The ‘Easy Drops’ App automates your eye drop regimen once your surgical dates are inputted. The App also allows patients to get driving directions to the surgery center or clinic, have one touch access to emailing the practice as well as educational videos for perusal. You can even read about your surgeon, learn about new surgical procedures like ‘Bladeless cataract surgery’ and easily share the App with friends and family who may be involved in helping the patient with eye drops after surgery. The interface has been designed with our patients in mind and is intuitive, easy and straightforward. This App has been made available by Dr. Patel and Dr. Desai exclusively to the patients of Milan Eye Center.

678-894-7926

www.JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Dr. Ushma Patel, D.M.D 6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500 • Suwanee, GA

6300 Hospital Parkway, Suite 100 Johns Creek, GA 30097 770.771.6591 www.johnscreekdermatology.com

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