2016
regional medical directory
a regional listing of Physicians & Medical Services
The 2016 Regional Medical Directory is a special advertising section of The Billings Gazette.
Index Physicians, Surgeons, Specialists & other Professional Practices Ear, Nose & Throat Ear, Nose & Throat Associates ....................................3
Clinics, Hospitals & Rehabilitation Facilities
Retirement & Assisted Living Assisted Living Autumn Springs Assisted Living .............................11 Senior Living Westpark Village Retirement ................................... 12
Support Services Clinic Fuller Family Medicine ..................................................5 Education RiverStone Health ...........................................................6 American Heart Association .................................... 13 Hospital Financial Billings Clinic ....................................................................8 First Interstate Bank .................................................... 14 St. Vincent Healthcare ................................................ 10
Articles
Health Plans New West Health Plan ................................................ 15
Retail Sales Manager Shelli Scott Director of Major Accounts, Classified and Digital Sales Ryan Brosseau Special Sections Coordinator Linsay Duty Section Designer Kara Peterson
EBMS .................................................................................... 16
Five health screenings women shouldn’t miss ....................................................................................................................................... 3 Avoid contraction of foodborne illnesses................................................................................................................................................. 4 Cancer screenings men should consider .................................................................................................................................................. 5 Oral health impacts overall health .............................................................................................................................................................. 6 Healthy ways to handle stress ....................................................................................................................................................................... 7 How to build and maintain strong bones ................................................................................................................................................. 8 How exercise can help prevent disease .................................................................................................................................................... 9 Earbud safety ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 How to sleep better at night........................................................................................................................................................................ 10 Maintain a safe and healthy pregnancy .................................................................................................................................................. 11 Medication safety tips for children and adults .................................................................................................................................... 12 Treat skin with care .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Recommended immunizations for those age 50+.............................................................................................................................. 14 Seasonal allergy triggers ............................................................................................................................................................................... 15
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General Manager Dave Worstell
2016 Regional Medical Directory
Access the 2016 Regional Medical Directory at www.billingsgazette.com/ specialsections
Five health screenings women shouldn’t miss Metro Services A nutritious diet and daily exercise can promote long-term health, but preventative care also plays a key role in keeping adults healthy as they age. Routine health screenings can head off potential problems, preventing illnesses and possibly limiting the duration of sickness. Women may have longer life expectancies than their male counterparts, but that does not mean they can afford to overlook preventative care. The following are five health screenings women should include as part of their healthy routines. 1. Pap tests and pelvic exams: Beginning at age 21 (or earlier if they are sexually active), every woman should get regular Pap smears and pelvic exams to test for any abnormalities in their reproductive systems. Pap smears may be suggested every two to three years depending on a woman’s age. A routine visit with a gynecologist is recommended annually to discuss any changes or worrisome symptoms. 2. Mammograms and breast exams: In addition to conducting self-examinations, women should get clinical manual breast exams. Women age 40 and older should get a manual breast exam each year and an annual or bi-annual mammogram. 3. Cholesterol checks: The ideal level of total cholesterol is below 200 mg/DL. Individuals with a higher level of cholesterol may be at a greater risk for heart disease. Cholesterol
screenings can alert doctors to potential trouble and help them develop plans for their patients to lower cholesterol levels. Doctors may suggest dietary changes and advise women to adopt more active lifestyles. Some doctors may even prescribe medication if cholesterol levels are especially high. 4. Skin examination and cancer screening: Women should examine their skin every month for new moles or changes in existing spots or moles to detect early signs of skin cancer. Be sure to check all areas of the body, as skin cancer can appear just about everywhere. Some doctors perform skin cancer screenings as part of routine physical exams, or women can visit a dermatologist. 5. Bone density screening: Those with a risk for osteoporosis, such as women with fractured bones or slender frames, should be screened earlier and more regularly than women without such histories or body types. Doctors generally recommend that women receive annual bone density screenings beginning at age 65. Healthy bones will show a T-score, or the measurement to determine bone density, of -1 or higher. These suggested screenings and tests are based on general medical guidance. Women should work with their doctors to develop wellness schedules that promote their long-term health.
Ear, Nose & Throat EAR, NOSE & THROAT ASSOCIATES
~~Adults, Children & Infants~~
Steven A. Butler, M.D. Brian T. Pelczar, M.D. Cynthia A. Kennedy, M.D.
Sean Demars, M.D.
Cassidy Brophy, APRN-FNP
Yellowstone Medical Center
Metro Services Certain health screenings are recommended for women at various stages in life.
Call Day or Night 2900 12th Ave. N., Billings 238-6161 • 1-800-648-6274 Suite 330W www.entabillings.com
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Avoid contraction of foodborne illnesses Metro Services Stomach bugs are rarely pleasant. Such bugs can last several days and result in missed school or work and even turn into something more serious, like dehydration. Many stomach bugs, whether they are the result of a virus or germs brought home from school, may be the result of poorly handled food. Foodborne illnesses cause about 325,000 hospitalizations and 5,200 deaths nationwide each year, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Under the right conditions, various bacteria can proliferate in food and result in bugs characterized by bouts of nausea or vomiting. While many food-related ailments are innocuous, one never knows when something ominous could be lurking in the foods one has eaten. In many cases, preventing food-related illness needs to begin even before food is brought into the home. At the store Shop at stores that take proper food handling seriously. Look for clean stores that properly refrigerate foods.
Metro Services
A food thermometer helps accurately gauge food doneness to prevent illness from undercooking. Inspect frozen or refrigerated foods to make sure nothing appears open or tampered with. If food is packed in clear wrapping, check to see that the food does not have a lot of ice crystals, which may mean it thawed out and then was refrozen. Select canned foods that are in packages without dents or bulges. Dents may compromise the can’s seam and let in contaminants, while bulges may indicate improper sealing or processing, contaminating the food inside the can. Shop for perishable foods last so you minimize the amount of time they are without refrigeration. If you expect that it will take you longer than an hour to get home, consider transporting foods in insulated bags or a cooler to preserve their freshness. At home Do not leave foods that need to be chilled sitting out for long periods of time. Refrigerate and freeze foods promptly after unpacking them from the store or after a meal is over. When defrosting foods, do not do so on the kitchen counter. Instead, use the refrigerator or run frozen packages under water. All fresh produce should be rinsed thoroughly before use, even if stores say the foods have already been washed. Produce can retain bacteria from the fields where it was grown. Also wash the skins or rinds of foods before peeling or slicing, or you may transfer bacteria to the flesh of the food. Wash and disinfect hands, utensils, cutting boards, and any other surfaces after handling raw meats and poultry. Try to contain juices from meats so they do not get all over countertops. Always use separate utensils for preparing uncooked meats and produce. Cook foods to the recommended temperature and check with a food thermometer. Keep in mind that some foods may cook unevenly, especially in microwaves. Stir and keep cooking to ensure even heat distribution. Do not overload the refrigerator and freezer; otherwise they may not chill foods sufficiently. Check that the appliance is working properly.
Jupiterimages Wash and disinfect hands, utensils, cutting boards, and any other surfaces after handling raw meats and poultry.
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Avoiding foodborne illnesses requires diligence at the store and at home. With care, members of the household can remain healthy.
2016 Regional Medical Directory
Cancer screenings men should consider Metro Services
Cancer screenings play an important role in cancer prevention. Screenings may not prevent people from getting cancer, but they can detect the presence of cancer before a person begins to experience any signs or symptoms. Screenings also can help doctors catch cancer before it metastasizes, or spreads, to areas of the body outside the area where it originated. Many women get routine mammograms to detect for breast cancer, but women are not the only ones who should include cancer screenings in their health care routines. Men also can benefit from screenings, discussing the pros and cons of each with their physicians during routine health examinations. Colon cancer Men should begin getting screened for colon cancer at age 50, though
those with family histories of colon cancer or other colon issues should begin even earlier, as family history increases a man’s risk of developing colon cancer. Colon cancer screenings may discover a type of growth known as a polyp, which is typically benign and can be removed before it develops into cancer. The American Cancer Society notes that men have various options to choose from with regard to screening for colon cancer. Such options include a colonoscopy, a stool DNA test and a camera pill. Speak to your physician about these options and discuss your family history, which will influence how frequently you need to be screened for colon cancer. Lung cancer Screening for lung cancer is most important for men who currently or recently smoked. The United States
Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual screening for lung cancer with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for men between the ages of 55 and 80 who have a 30 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. Screening should be discontinued once a man has not smoked for 15 years or has developed a health problem that substantially limits a man’s life expectancy or his ability or willingness to undergo curative lung surgery. (Note: Pack-year history is calculated by multiplying the number of packs of cigarettes smoked per day by the number of years the person has smoked.) The ACS notes that the risks associated with lung cancer screenings typically outweigh the benefits for men who have never smoked or quit long ago.
Prostate cancer The National Cancer Institute notes that prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer among men in the United States. Being 50 years of age, black and/or having a brother, son or father who had prostate cancer increases a man’s risk of developing the disease. The NCI notes that screening tests for prostate cancer, which include a digital rectal exam and a prostatespecific antigen test, come with risks, and men should discuss these risks and the potential benefits of prostate cancer screenings before deciding to be screened. Cancer screenings can detect cancer in its earliest stages, and as men get older, they should discuss their screening options with their physicians.
Clinic • Well Woman Exams, Birth Control • IUD Insertions/removal • Well Child Exams, Immunizations • Annual Exams • DOT/CDL Exams • School/Sports Physicals • Pre-op Evaluations • Coumadin Clinic • Laboratory Services • Diabetes Care
Same Day appointments
Now a preferred provider for the City of pr Billings Employees.
4045 avenue B • Billings, mT
LocaTed BeHind Wendy’s on sHiLoH and grand
Hours: 7am-5pm mon.-THurs.•7am-12pm Fri.
www.fullerfamilymedicine.com 2016 Regional Medical Directory
Call for appointment
651-9355 5
Oral health impacts overall health Metro Services A healthy mouth is good for more than just a pretty smile. Oral health can affect the entire body, making dental care more than just a cosmetic concern. Many people know that poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and even lost teeth. But are you aware that failing to brush or visit the dentist regularly also can lead to more serious health issues? According to Colgate, recent research suggests that there may be an association between oral infections, particularly gum disease, and cardiovascular disease and preterm birth. Gum disease also may make diabetes more difficult to control, since infections may cause insulin resistance and disrupt blood sugar. Your mouth also can serve as an infection source elsewhere in the body. Bacteria from your mouth can enter the bloodstream through infection sites in the gums. If your immune system is
healthy, there should not be any adverse effects. However, if your immune system is compromised, these bacteria can flow to other areas of the body where they can cause infection. An example of this is oral bacteria sticking to the lining of diseased heart valves. Other links have been found between oral health and overall health. In 2010, researchers from New York University who reviewed 20 years of data on the association concluded that there is a link between gum inflammation and Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers in the UK also found a correlation. Analysis showed that a bacterium called “Porphyromonas gingivalis” was present in brains of those with Alzheimer’s disease but not in the samples from the brains of people who did not have Alzheimer’s. The P. gingivalis bacterium is usually associated with chronic gum disease and not dementia.
Researchers also have found a possible link between gum disease and pancreatic cancer. Harvard researchers found that men with a history of gum disease had a 64 percent increased risk of pancreatic cancer compared with men who had never had gum disease, based on studies of men from 1986 through 2007. While oral health issues may lead to other conditions over time, symptoms also may be indicative of underlying conditions of which a person is unaware. Inflammation of gum tissue may be a warning sign of diabetes. Oral problems, such as lesions in the mouth, may indicate the presence of HIV/AIDS. Dentists may be the first people to diagnose illnesses patients don’t even know they have. An important step in maintaining good overall health is to include dental care in your list of preventative
measures. Visit the dentist for biannual cleanings or as determined by the doctor. Do not ignore any abnormalities in the mouth. Maintain good oral hygiene at home by brushing twice a day and flossing at least once per day. Mouthwashes and rinses also may help keep teeth and gums healthy. Oral health and other systems of the body seem to be linked. Taking care of your teeth promotes overall health.
Metro Services Oral health can affect the entire body, making dental care more than just a cosmetic concern.
Clinic At RiverStone Health Clinic, comprehensive primary care comes from building a partnership with you and your family. With same day appointments and convenient hours, we make healthcare simple for you. We also accept most insurance plans and, if needed, offer financial assistance. Call today for your appointment.
Providing healthcare for you and your family every step of the way. 6
2016 Regional Medical Directory
123 South 27th Street • Billings, MT 59101 406.247.3350 • www.riverstonehealth.org
Healthy ways to handle stress Metro Services Stress affects people of all ages. The symptoms of stress can be extremely unpleasant, as participants in a study released earlier this year by the Statistic Brain Research Institute and the American Institute of Stress who reported experiencing physical symptoms of stress admitted to feeling fatigue, headache, upset stomach, and muscle tension, among other things. Among those who reported feeling physical symptoms of stress, 77 percent admitted to feeling those symptoms regularly, citing job pressure and money as the primary causes of their stress. How
men and women handle stress can impact both their immediate and long-term health, as stress has been linked to a host of problems and ailments, including sleep dysfunction and heart disease. Many people cope with stress in unhealthy ways, which may only exacerbate the effects of stress on the body. Certain methods of handling stress may work for some people but not others, but the following are a few healthy ways to combat stress. Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption Many adults turn to alcohol at the end of a stressful day, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that relying on alcohol to cope with stress may only create more problems down the road, and those problems will only increase your stress levels. In addition, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America notes that alcohol and caffeine can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks. Rely on a support network Coworkers, family and friends have stressful days, too, and such confidantes can help you handle stress in healthy ways. The ADAA recommends men and women dealing with stress let their support circle know how they can help relieve stress. Many people simply need to talk to someone after a stressful day, which can feel like a weight has been lifted off their shoulders. Let your support network know you’re there for them when they experience stress as well. Get daily exercise Exercise pays a host of dividends, not the least of which is relieving stress. At the end of a stressful day, get some exercise instead of pouring yourself a drink or indulging in an unhealthy meal. When the body is physically active, the brain secretes endorphins, which are neurotransmitters that make you feel good. Regular exercise also helps you get a fuller, deeper sleep, which can be disrupted by stress. Eat a healthy diet Diet also can affect how your body handles stress. Certain foods can tame stress. For example, oatmeal can boost levels of a calming chemical known as serotonin in your brain. That calming effect can make it easier to cope with stress. Other foods may help strengthen the immune system. Vitamin C, for instance, may help curb levels of stress hormones such as cortisol while simultaneously strengthening the immune system. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish such as salmon and tuna, may help prevent surges in stress hormones while also protecting against heart disease and depression, two serious conditions that studies have linked to elevated stress levels.
Metro Services Daily exercise is a healthy and eective way to cope with stress.
Healthy ways to handle stress can help men and women who are stressed out ensure that stress is not compromising both their immediate and long-term health.
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Hospital
ExpressCare: Offers quick access in convenient locations to primary care for minor medical issues at a nominal fee (ages 2-74). Located inside select Albertsons. • Allergies • Athletes foot/ringworm • Bladder infections • Bug bites • Cold sores • Colds/respiratory illness • Ear infection/pain • Minor burns • Pink eye • Rashes • Sinus infection/ sinus pain • Skin abrasions • Sore throat • Sports physicals • Styes • Ear lavage • Wart removal • Limited testing/ screening and vaccinations For more information, visit billingsclinic.com/ expresscare
Need Care How to build and Today? maintain strong bones
SameDay Care:
Designed to complement the care you receive from your family doctor. Located at Billings Clinic Downtown, West and Heights. • Medical treatment for minor illness and injury • Sprains and minor fractures • Sore throats and colds • Muscle aches and pains • Cuts, scrapes and minor wounds • Coughs • Difficult or painful urination • Earaches • Minor burns and sunburns • Insect and tick bites • Back strain • Sinus congestion For more information, visit billingsclinic.com/ samedaycare
Health questions? Need a physician? Call Billings Clinic HealthLine 24 Hours, 7 Days a Week 255-8400 or 1-800-252-1246 billingsclinic.com
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Emergency & Trauma Center:
Call 9-1-1 and go to the Emergency & Trauma Center if you are experiencing any of these conditions: • Chest pain • Trouble breathing • Stroke symptoms • Severe abdominal pain • Excessive bleeding • Severe pain for any reason • Any other potentially life-threatening condition Always open. Always ready. 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
For directions and maps to any Billings Clinic department, location or service, use our wayfinding tool: billingsclinic.com/maps
Metro Services Osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to become weakened and brittle over time, affects millions of people across the globe. The International Osteoporosis Foundation says an osteoporosis-related fracture occurs roughly once every 3 seconds, accounting for more than 8.9 million fractures a year. Younger individuals typically heal from fractures more quickly than older adults, who often discover that fractures greatly impede their mobility and quality of life. Bone health is important at any age, but it is particularly crucial as a person gets older. Without a strong framework of bones, the body collapses on itself and rates of fracture increase. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep and maintain strong bones. Bones are largely made up of a protein called collagen, which is bound together by calcium and other trace minerals. Vitamin D and calcium work in concert, with vitamin D helping the body to absorb calcium so it can find its way into bones. Experts advise getting the right ratio of calcium, protein and vitamin D to safeguard against osteoporosis. The Institute of Medicine suggests that adults get between 600 and 800 international units (IUs) of vitamin D every day, and between
1,000 and 1,300 milligrams of calcium daily. Dairy products, such as low- and nonfat milk, yogurt and cheese, are high in calcium. Dark green vegetables and almonds contain calcium in smaller amounts. Obtaining calcium and vitamin D through natural sources is always preferable, but doctors may suggest supplementation if foods are not providing what a person needs to meet the minimum recommended levels. Exercise is another important component of building strong bones. The National Osteoporosis Foundation says 30 minutes of exercise each day can help. Higher-intensity exercises should be mixed with lower-intensity workouts for the best results. Weight-bearing exercises, such as hiking, dancing and stair-climbing, can build between 1 and 3 percent of bone. An exercise regimen also should include lifting weights or using resistance bands. Activities that promote good posture and flexibility can help improve balance and alignment of the body. Perform stretches smoothly and slowly after exercising to maintain your range of motion. Quitting smoking also can promote strong bones. Smoking has been linked to poor skeletal health in both men and women, and the longer one smokes, the greater one’s risk for fracture.
Metro Services Exercise is one important component of building strong bones. Experts say 30 minutes of exercise each day can help.
2016 Regional Medical Directory
How exercise can help prevent disease Metro Services The benefits of routine exercise are plenty. Daily exercise can improve mood, help reduce stress and make it easier for men and women to maintain healthy weights. Regular exercise also can help men and women combat or reduce their risk for various ailments, including some potentially deadly diseases. Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become brittle and fragile from loss of tissue. Though post-menopausal women are most susceptible to osteoporosis, anyone can get the condition, which can lead to fractures and other bodily injuries. But routine weight-bearing exercises, including strength training, walking and jogging, can strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis and bone loss. A Nurses’ Health Study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association found that women who walked for four or more hours per week had 41 percent fewer hip fractures than women who walked less than one hour per week.
Back pain People experiencing back pain may feel that inactivity is the best approach to overcoming it. But prolonged inactivity may only exacerbate back pain. Men and women dealing with back pain should always consult a physician for the best approach to alleviating their pain. Don’t be surprised if, during such consultations, your physician prescribes certain back exercises. According to www.spine-health.com, a web-based resource for back and neck pain sufferers developed by a multi-specialty group of medical professionals, certain back exercises can distribute nutrients into the disc space and soft tissues in the back to keep the discs, muscles, ligaments, and joints healthy. Heart disease According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death in United States, while Statistics Canada notes it is the second-leading cause of death among Canadians. Regular exercise can greatly reduce a person’s risk of developing heart disease by strengthening the heart, lowering blood pressure and helping the heart function more efficiently. Even moderate physical activity can have a profound impact on heart health.
Did you
KNOW? Metro Services
Earbuds enable music lovers to enjoy their favorite tunes uninterrupted and without distracting others around them. People often use earbuds while commuting to work, at the gym and even at home. But according to hearing aid manufacturer Belltone, noise-induced hearing loss can occur by using earbuds at a high volume for extended periods of time. Earbuds can put audio signals close to the inner ear, which is the equivalent of boosting it by nine decibels. Even moderately high volume can cause hearing loss. It’s important to keep the volume low and to take frequent breaks when using earbuds. Keep earbud volume below 60 percent and wear them for no more than 60 minutes per day.
Type 2 diabetes A joint study from the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Diabetes Association found that participation in regular physical activity can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes, a potentially deadly condition, the prevalence of which has increased considerably over the last several decades. The American Diabetes Association recommends that people who already have type 2 diabetes check their blood glucose levels before and after exercise to see how their bodies react to different activities. Understanding such reactions can help people with type 2 diabetes prevent their blood glucose levels from getting too high or too low. Exercise is essential to a healthy lifestyle. But while regular exercise can instantly imMetro Services prove your quality of life, it also can reduce your risk for a host of potentially deadly Regular exercise can help combat or reduce the risk ailments. of various ailments, including some potentially deadly diseases.
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No matter where you are, we have a clinic nearby.
Hospital
How to sleep better at night Metro Services
2 Wicks Ln
BILLINGS, MT Airport Rd
1
Rimrock Rd Poly Dr
5
Grand Ave
6 15th St W
24th St W
32nd St W
Shiloh Rd
Central Ave
34
Grand Ave
King Ave E
King Ave W
Gabel Rd
LAUREL, MT 7
7 8
LAUREL
BILLINGS
9
HARDIN
ABSAROKEE
10 RED LODGE
11 CODY, WYOMING
Heights
West End
(2) Heights Family Medicine 32 Wicks Lane P-406-237-8300
(1) North Shiloh Family Medicine 2223 Mission Way P-406-237-8989
Downtown
(5) West Grand Family Medicine 2750 Grand Avenue P-406-237-4040
(9) Hardin Family Medicine 16 North Miles Ave, Hardin, MT 59034 P-406-665-2205
(6) Broadwater Family Medicine/Broadwater Walk-In Clinic 2019 Broadwater Ave P-406-237-5200
(10) Mountain View Clinic 10 Robinson Lane, Red Lodge, MT 59068 P-406-446-3800
(3) Internal Medicine and Diabetes 2900 12th Ave N, Ste. 160 W P-406-237-8500 (4) Internal Medicine 2900 12th Ave N, Ste. 310 W P-406-238-6900
Outside Billings (7) Laurel Family Medicine 1035 1st Ave, Laurel MT 59044 P-406-628-6311
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(8) Absarokee Family Medicine 55 N Montana, Absarokee, MT 59011 P-406-328-4497
(11) Cody Family Medicine 720 Lindsay Lane, Ste. A, Cody, WY 82414 P-307-578-1800
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) notes that adults between the ages of 26 and 64 need an average of seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Such a sleep schedule may be ideal, but many adults juggling work and family find it difficult to get seven hours of sleep per night, much less eight or nine. While there may not be any way for adults to get more sack time at night, there are ways for men and women to get a better night’s rest so they can approach each day with as much energy as possible.
Adopt a nighttime ritual
Stick to a schedule
Studies have shown that men and women who exercise regularly benefit from more restful nights’ sleep. Finding the right time to exercise is essential, as many people find that exercising right before bed elevates their heart and stimulates their body in ways that make it difficult to fall asleep. Exercising in the early morning can provide more energy throughout the day, and come bedtime your body might be more ready to fall asleep. However, if you find yourself exercising at the expense of your sleep, try to find another time to get your workout in.
Keeping a sporadic sleeping schedule can make it difficult to get the kind of restorative sleep that can help you maintain adequate energy levels throughout the day. To ensure you get a better night’s sleep, go to sleep at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each day. Try to stay true to your sleep schedule on weekends, resisting the temptation to sleep in later or stay up late on Friday and Saturday nights. Nap effectively Men and women who have the time to sneak in a nap may find that napping is a more effective way to make up for inadequate sleep than sleeping in late in the morning. Effective napping allows men and women to recharge without affecting their ability to fall asleep at night. Napping in the early afternoon and keeping nap time to between 20 and 30 minutes can provide the energy boost you need and help you make it through the after-dinner hours without feeling drowsy. Such drowsiness can lead to post-dinner periods of dozing that can make it difficult to fall asleep come bedtime.
2016 Regional Medical Directory
The NSF notes that a relaxing nighttime ritual that is noticeably different from the hustle and bustle of the rest of your day can help your body adjust for sleep, increasing the chance that you will get a more restful night’s sleep. Relaxing ways to unwind before climbing into to bed to fall asleep include reading a book, listening to calming music or taking a warm bath. Once you find something that works, stick with it. Find time to exercise
Ensure your bedroom is sleep-friendly The NSF recommends maintaining a relatively cool temperature between 60 and 67 F in your bedroom for sleeping. In addition, eliminate any potential distractions, such as light and noise, that can negatively affect your ability to fall asleep. Humidifiers, eye shades or even machines that generate white noise can effectively counter any distractions that you cannot get rid of on your own.
Maintain a safe and healthy pregnancy Metro Services Thousands of women will become pregnant this year for the first time. Pregnancy can trigger thoughts of the future and making plans for when the baby arrives. It also can be a time to take inventory of personal health to make changes that will benefit expecting mothers and the children growing within them. Prioritizing overall health is a great way to increase your chances of a safe and healthy pregnancy. Visit an obstetrician or midwife as soon as possible Once the pregnancy test comes out positive, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss the course of the pregnancy and what can be done from the start. Doctors may schedule blood screenings and estimate due dates. They also will go over nutrition and care guidelines, which will usually include a regimen of prenatal vitamins. Discuss age and risk factors with the doctor The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention point out that there has been a societal shift in the age at which most women become pregnant, with many waiting until later in life to start their families. Whereas ages 20-24 used to be the peak time for pregnancy, many women in North America now become pregnant for the first time between the ages 25 and 29, while many more wait until their 30s. Waiting longer to become pregnant for the first time may increase a woman’s risk for certain conditions during pregnancy. Your doctor can answer any questions you may have and let you know about additional testing that may be necessary. Don’t overeat Eating right is one of the best things you can do for yourself and the baby. Anything you put in your body can affect the baby, so prioritize a healthy diet. Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to eat for two. During the first few months, you may not have much of an appetite. The fetus does not require many additional nutrients until the end of the pregnancy. Only then will an
Metro Services You’ve received the good news, now it is time to take care of your body and the new life growing inside of it. increase of 200 calories or so be adequate. Speak with your physician about what constitutes healthy and unhealthy weight gain during pregnancy. Choose healthy foods Avoid undercooked foods and soft cheeses that may harbor bacteria. Some seafood, such as tuna or shark, may contain high levels of mercury. Lean meats, fruits, vegetables, fiber, and dairy products can fuel your body and keep the baby growing.
serious health problems for the baby. Miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and SIDS are just a few of the potential side effects of drinking alcohol, smoking tobacco or taking drugs while pregnant, advises Baby Center. Avoid these behaviors and always check with a doctor before taking any over-the-counter or herbal remedies.
Continue to exercise Unless there are complications during your pregnancy, you likely can continue to exercise. However, don’t overdo it with exercise, and call your doctor if you experience any adverse side effects during or after exercise sessions.
Get educated Pick up a book from a reputable doctor or author so that you can better understand your pregnancy. It can save you stressful moments and keep your pregnancy on a healthy track.
Assisted Living
A little Help… A Lot of Independence! • A Perfect Place for Seniors • Locally Owned & Community Driven • Call for a tour!
Avoid drugs, tobacco and alcohol Smoking, taking drugs or drinking during pregnancy can cause
2016 Regional Medical Directory
3758 Avenue B • 406-656-0422 www.autumnspringsassistedliving.com
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Medication safety tips for children and adults Metro Services Prescription and over-the-counter medications can save lives and help people of all ages manage certain conditions. When used correctly and under the guidance of a physician, medications are largely safe. It’s when medicines are used off-label, shared or taken in error that reactions and injury can occur. The American Academy of Pediatrics and their Healthy Children Organization warns that more than 7,000 children visit hospital emergency rooms every year for problems related to medication errors. Children are not the only ones in danger. Adults can make mistakes with their medications as well. For example, seniors who may be managing several different types of medications can inadvertently cause dangerous drug interactions by mixing the wrong pills. Pharmacists work diligently to help prevent medication errors. However,
the general public can also do their part. The American Society of HealthSystem Pharmacists and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy offer these medication safety tips. • When a new medication is prescribed, ask the doctor to explain more about it, including its intended purpose and any common side effects to be expected. • Make sure your doctor knows about all the medications you are taking, including non-prescription products, herbal remedies, dietary supplements, and vitamins. Some medications do not mix with seemingly innocent ingredients. Keep a running list of any medicines you take so you can easily and accurately share this information with your physician. • Question anything that you do not understand. Check the prescription
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Senior Living
“Having friends to play cards with keeps my mind active and alert”
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for dosing information. For refills, make sure the refill information conforms to the original prescription strength. Fill all prescriptions at the same pharmacy and develop a rapport with the pharmacist so that potential drug interactions will be flagged. Pharmacists are well versed in medications and may be able to inform you as to the safety or risk involved in taking an overthe-counter product at the same time that you are on a prescription. Many pills look the same. If you are confused and taking multiple medications, keep medications in the original packaging and doublecheck the labels before taking any medications. Use the right dosing tools. A spoon from the kitchen is not accurate for measuring out a teaspoon of medication. If you take multiple medications, use a pillbox to keep pills organized. The box makes it easier to manage medications and serves as
a reminder if you have or have not taken a medication on a given day. • Store medications as instructed on the label. The bathroom medicine cabinet may not be an ideal place to store medications, as bathrooms get damp, and that can compromise the integrity of the pills. Also, bathroom cabinets are readily accessible by all, including kids. It’s better to store drugs out of sight and reach of children. Keep dangerous medications locked away. • Routinely discard expired or unneeded medications. Medicine take-back programs for disposal are a good way to remove medicines from the home and reduce the chance that others may accidentally take the medicine. • Consult with a doctor before beginning or ending medication. Medicines play important roles in personal health. When used correctly, medications are assets, but caution should always be taken to ensure safe usage and storage of any medications.
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Metro Services Keep medications in the original packaging and double-check the labels before taking any medications.
2016 Regional Medical Directory
Treat skin with care Metro Services According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer accounts for the largest number of cancer diagnoses in the United States. Each year, nearly five million Americans are treated for skin cancer, with most cases being non-melanoma skin cancer, typically diagnosed as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. But skin cancer is not the only condition that can affect the skin. From rosacea to eczema to acne to psoriasis, the skin can be affected by numerous conditions, many of which can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing. Keeping skin healthy requires effort, and there are many things men and women can do to protect their skin and reduce their risk for various conditions.
two hours or more often. Make sunscreen a part of your daily regimen, applying it as you would moisturizer or antiperspirant. Quit the habit The Mayo Clinic says smoking narrows tiny blood vessels in the outermost layers of skin, which decreases blood flow. This robs the skin of oxygen and nutrients it needs to stay healthy. Smoking also can damage the collagen and elastin in the skin, which promotes elasticity. Be gentle to the skin
Schedule routine visits to a dermatologist Dermatologists can treat and help prevent disorders of the skin, and men and women should make annual visits to their dermatologist to ensure their skin is healthy. Dermatologists can diagnose if a mark or a blemish is something benign or serious and provide information on various courses of treatment. As with any specialist, dermatologists may be well versed on new and innovative care. If anything on your skin seems suspect, visit a dermatologist right away. Protect yourself from the sun The single best thing you can do for your skin is to protect it from the sun. Not only can a lifetime of sun exposure cause wrinkles and age spots, it can lead to cancer. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Apply it every
Use mild cleansers and limit showers and baths to warm water. Moisturize dry skin if it is problematic. Pat skin dry after washing and do not tug or rub skin excessively. Inspect skin regularly Routinely check your skin for any changes and share any concerns with your doctor. Schedule annual skin checks as part of yearly physical examinations. Taking these steps can help you maintain healthy skin and prevent ailments in the years to come.
Education
HEART ATTACK?
Call 9-1-1 Don’t waste time when your life is on the line.
Many Montanans die or are disabled from a heart attack because they do not get treatment in time. By calling 9-1-1, you receive timely treatment that can mean the difference between life and death. Know these heart attack symptoms and take action, even if experiencing just one: Chest pain or discomfort Upper body pain or discomfort Shortness of breath
Cold sweat Jaw pain Nausea or Lightheadedness
Metro Services Men and women should make annual visits to their dermatologist to ensure their skin is healthy.
heart.org/montanalives
2016 Regional Medical Directory
Montana
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Recommended immunizations for those age 50+ Metro Services
Metro Services Adults should keep tabs on their immunization histories to ensure they’re up-to-date with vaccinations.
Financial
Routine immunizations can keep people safe and healthy. Certain vaccinations can prevent diseases from producing symptoms, while others can lessen the duration of an illness or make conditions less severe. Vaccination schedules become a way of life for parents to young children. But vaccinations aren’t just for kids, and adults should keep tabs on their immunization histories to ensure they’re up-to-date with vaccinations for their particular age group and lifestyle. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that the elderly are more likely to die of a vaccine-preventable disease than other age groups. The immune system begins to decline as we age, so the body can benefit from the disease-fighting boost provided by vaccinations. Individuals at any age should discuss immunizations with their doctors, but it’s a particularly important conversation for those age 50 and older. Vaccine schedules and recommendations may vary depending on where a person lives, but the following immunization recommendations are offered courtesy of the CDC. Influenza An annual flu shot can help prevent the nearly 36,000 deaths that occur due to flu each year in the United States. The flu vaccine is designed to combat the current strain of flu, so it is recommended anytime between September and March, which is the prime flu season. People age 50 and older should opt for the injection rather than the nasal form of the vaccine. Tdap This vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis and is especially necessary for people who have close contact with young infants. Pertussis, or whooping cough, can be passed on to youngsters and make them very ill. If you’ve never received a Tdap vaccine, the CDC suggests getting it at least once. Individual tetanus boosters should be received every 10 years. Pneumococcal
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Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by the pneumococcus bacteria. It can cause pneumonia, blood infection, ear infections, and even bacterial meningitis. This vaccine is given to adults age 65 and older or to younger adults at their physicians’ discretion. Hepatitis A Individuals with medical, occupational or lifestyle conditions, such as health care workers or people with chronic liver disease, may need a two-dose series of the hepatitis A vaccine. Adults who are avid travelers to various parts of the world that may bring them in contact with animals or people who do not receive the same course of immunizations may need additional vaccines. Speak with a doctor about which immunizations are recommended before travel.
2016 Regional Medical Directory
Seasonal allergy triggers Metro Services Allergic reactions occur when the body’s immune system attacks an often harmless substance like animal dander, food or pollen. Medication can help reduce the severity of such reactions, but some allergy sufferers find allergic reactions inconvenient nuisances even with medication. Understanding what triggers allergic reactions may help some people avoid them or make them easier to handle. The following are some of the more common allergy triggers and how men and women suffering from allergies can avoid them. Pollen Pollen is perhaps the best-known allergy trigger. A fine, often yellow substance that’s essential to the fertilization of flowers, pollen can be spread by wind, insects or other animals. Hay fever sufferers may sneeze or experi-
and mattress covers. Removing materials that collect dust, such as carpet, Mold is a furry growth of minute funalso can reduce the number of gal hyphae that is often found in damp dust mites. parts of a home, such as basements Seasonal allergies and bathrooms. Mold also can be found affect millions of in grass and mulch, triggering allergic people. But such reactions when men and women spend sufferers can comtime in their yards. To avoid an allergic bat their seasonal reaction triggered by mold, make sure allergies by taking moist areas of your home get fresh air Pet dander several proactive regularly and routinely clean ceilings or approaches to Dander are flakes of skin in an other areas where mold may grow. eliminate alanimal’s fur or hair. Because of their lergens before microscopic size, these flakes of skin Dust mites reactions can easily attach and remain attached Tiny bugs that live in bedding, occur. to bedding, fabrics and furniture. Many carpets, curtains, upholstery, and people keep their pets even if they demattresses, dust mites feed on dead velop allergies to dander. Should such skin cells from people and pets. Dust a situation arise, do not allow your pet mites also may feed on bacteria, fungi into your bedroom, bathe the animal and pollen. Dust mites thrive in humid regularly and remove carpeting in favor conditions, but these pests can be of bare floors or washable rugs. combatted with hypoallergenic pillows BananaStock ence a runny nose and itchy eyes when pollen spreads. Over-the-counter medications, such as Claritin®, can be especially effective at relieving symptoms of seasonal allergies. But allergy sufferers also can combat high pollen counts by staying indoors on windy days and closing their windows and running their air conditioners.
Mold
Health Plans
Choice Matters. New West Medicare offers plans that keep Montanans in mind.
AT NEW WEST MEDICARE, WE ARE MONTANANS, JUST LIKE YOU. And we know you value the freedom of choice. So when it is time to start looking at Medicare coverage, remember, you have the right to choose a company and a Medicare Advantage plan that is right for YOU! We offer low monthly premiums and an exercise and healthy aging program in every plan. And, as a Montana company, you can be assured we are looking out for your best interests. Let us make Medicare simple for you. NewWestHealthServicesisaPPOPlanwithaMedicareContract.EnrollmentinNewWestMedicaredependson contractrenewal.YoumustcontinuetopayyourMedicarePartBpremium.Limitations,co-paymentsandrestrictions mayapply.Theformulary,pharmacynetworkand/orprovidernetworkmaychangeatanytime.Youwillreceive 888.873.8044 · TTY 711 notificationwhennecessary.Thebenefitinformationprovidedisabriefsummary,notacompletedescriptionof newwestmedicare.com benefits.FormoreinformationcontactNewWestMedicare.Foraccommodationsofpersonswithspecialneedsata salesmeetingcall1-888-873-8044,TTY711. 8a.m. to8p.m.daily.BenefitsmaychangeonJanuary1ofeachyear. Find us on H2701_NW#2016_630_9-2015Accepted 2016 Regional Medical Directory
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Metro Services
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2016 Regional Medical Directory