2017 Medical Directory

2017

regional medical directory

a regional listing of Physicians & Medical Services

The 2017 Regional Medical Directory is a special advertising section of The Billings Gazette.

General Manager Dave Worstell

Index

Retirement & Assisted Living

Clinics, Hospitals & Rehabilitation Facilities

 Autumn Springs Assisted Living .................................9

Clinic

Support Services

 Fuller Family Medicine ................................................. 5

Health Plans

Hospital

 EBMS ............................................................................16

 St. Vincent Healthcare ................................................ 11

 USHEALTH Advisors ..................................................... 7

Assisted/Senior Living Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau Special Sections Coordinator Spencyr Knatterud

Access the 2017 Regional

Articles Why dental hygiene is essential for overall health ..............................................................................................................3 Diabetic vision changes......................................................................................................................................................... 4 How to shorten the duration of a cold..................................................................................................................................5 Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease .........................................................................................................................6 Simple ways to maintain your mental acuity.......................................................................................................................7 6 myths associated with menopause ...................................................................................................................................8 Managing the costs of assisted living ..................................................................................................................................9 What exactly is cancer? ........................................................................................................................................................10 Choosing an oncologist .........................................................................................................................................................11 Robotic surgery can be advantageous ............................................................................................................................... 12 The best (and worst foods) for heart health ...................................................................................................................... 13 Exercise and arthritis ...........................................................................................................................................................14 Simple ways to stay fit all year round................................................................................................................................. 15 2

Advertising Manager Shelli Scott

2017 Regional Medical Directory

Medical Directory at www.billingsgazette.com/ specialsections

Content courtesy of Metro Services

Why dental hygiene is essential for overall health The importance of maintaining clean teeth and healthy gums goes beyond having fresh breath and a white smile. Many people are surprised to discover that oral hygiene plays an integral role in overall health.

Research indicates that oral health mirrors the condition of the body as a whole.

Also, regular dental visits can alert dentists about overall health and pinpoint if a person is at a risk for chronic disease. An oral health check-up also may be the first indication of a potential health issue not yet evident to a general medical doctor.

Heart disease According to the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a distinct relationship between periodontal disease and conditions such as heart disease and stroke.

Joint teams at the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom and the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, Ireland, found that people with bleeding gums from poor dental hygiene could have an increased risk of heart disease. Bacteria from the mouth is able to enter the bloodstream when bleeding gums are present. That bacteria can stick to platelets and subsequently form blood clots. This interrupts the flow of blood to the heart and may trigger a heart attack. Brushing and flossing twice daily and rinsing with mouthwash can remove bacteria and keep gums healthy.

Facial pain

The health of teeth and gums can impact other parts of the body.

Pancreatic cancer In 2007, the Harvard School of Public Health reported a link between gum disease and pancreatic cancer. In the ongoing study, 51,000 men were followed and data was collected beginning in 1986. The 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. The greatest risk for pancreatic cancer among this group was in men with recent tooth loss. However, the study was unable to find links between other types of oral health problems, such as tooth decay, and pancreatic cancer.

The Office of the Surgeon General says infections of the gums that support the teeth can lead to facial and oral pain.

Gingivitis, which is an early stage of gum disease, as well as advanced gum disease, affects more than 75 percent of the Ameri- Alzheimer’s disease can population.

Dental decay can lead to its own share Various health ailments, including of pain. Maintaining a healthy mouth can poor oral health, have been linked to a fend off decay and infections, thereby pre- greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. In 2010, after reviewing 20 years’ venting pain.

worth of data, researchers from New York University concluded that there is a link between gum inflammation and Alzheimer’s disease. Follow-up studies from researchers at the University of Central Lancashire in the United Kingdom compared brain samples from 10 living patients with Alzheimer’s to samples from 10 people who did not have the disease. Data indicated that a bacterium - Porphyromonas gingivalis - was present in the Alzheimer’s brain samples but not in the samples from the brains of people who did not have Alzheimer’s. P. gingivalis is usually associated with chronic gum disease. As a result of the study, experts think that the bacteria can move via nerves in the roots of teeth that connect directly with the brain or through bleeding gums.

These health conditions are just a sampling of the relationship between oral health and overall health. Additional connections also have been made and continue to be studied.

2017 Regional Medical Directory

Did you know?

Research indicates that people who laugh a lot are much healthier and may live longer than those who don’t find time to chuckle. A good, deep belly laugh can provide your body and mind with a great workout. Dr. Lee Berk at the Loma Linda School of Public Health in California found that laughing lowers levels of stress hormones and strengthens the immune system.

The organization Laughter Works, which teaches people how and why to laugh, says laughter can cause blood pressure to drop, blood to become oxygenated and endorphins to kick in, which can improve mood.

And that’s just the beginning.

Laughing can help reduce stress and promote stronger relationships between people who laugh together. Data indicates children around the age of six laugh the most, laughing roughly 300 times per day, while adults average only 15 to 100 laughs per day.

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Diabetic vision changes Routine eye examinations can help doctors diagnose diabetes early. Such examinations also are important in the management of the disease and the prevention of vision loss.

Diabetes affects 23.6 million people in the United States and close to three million people in Canada.

While diabetes can be accompanied by many different symptoms, some people are surprised to learn that diabetes can affect the eyes and vision.

Changes in vision are sometimes the earliest warning signs of the presence of diabetes or prediabetes. Diabetic eye disease is its own stand-alone condition, and the National Eye Institute points out that diabetic eye disease comprises a group of eye conditions that affect people with diabetes. These may include retinopathy, macular edema, cataracts and glaucoma. All forms

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of eye disease can potentially cause severe vision loss or blindness.

Those with diabetes also can experience xanthelasma, or yellowish collections of cholesterol around the eye area. What’s more, diabetes can put individuals at risk of developing conjunctival bacterial infections (pink eye), as well as corneal erosions, corneal defects and subsequent dry eyes.

According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes are at a 40 percent greater risk of suffering from glaucoma than people without diabetes. The longer someone has had diabetes, the more common glaucoma is.

Diabetics also are 60 percent more likely to develop cataracts. Vision checkups and care are an important part of living with diabetes.

Routine eye examinations can head off potential vision problems and have been known to alert

doctors to the presence of diabetes before patients know they have it.

During a comprehensive dilated eye exam, eye doctors will examine all areas of the eye to check for illness.

Pressure on the eye will be tested, as glaucoma can cause elevated pressure. The doctor also will check for any clouding of the eye lens.

When an eye is dilated, doctors can examine the retina at the rear of the eye. Points that will be checked include:  changes to blood vessels, including any leaking blood vessels or fatty deposits  swelling of the macula  damage to nerve tissue  health of the retina, and whether there are any tears or detachments While many of the vision loss problems associated with diabetes are irreversible, early detection and treatment can reduce the risk

2017 Regional Medical Directory

Routine eye examinations can help doctors diagnose diabetes early. Such examinations also are important in the management of the disease and the prevention of vision loss.

of blindness by 95 percent, advises the NEI. Controlling diabetes slows the onset and worsening of visual symptoms. People with diabetes may need to see their eye doctors more frequently and have a greater number of dilated exams to ensure eyes are still in good health.

To keep diabetes in check, follow a doctor-recommended diet, monitor your blood-sugar levels and get plenty of exercise. Eye doctors and primary care providers can work together to ensure that all symptoms of diabetes - whether visual or otherwise - are treated effectively.

How to shorten the duration of a cold Few things can be as uncomfortable as the common cold. In their book “Common Cold,” authors Olaf Weber and Ronald Eccles say the common cold has been around since the ancient times.

More than 200 virus strains can contribute to colds, but the rhinovirus is the most common. Colds produce a bevy of symptoms, including runny nose, congestion and sore throat, so it should come as no surprise that sufferers want to find relief fast.

Colds typically last for a week or more. While there’s no cure for the common cold, according to The Mayo Clinic, there are some remedies that can help cold sufferers feel better more quickly.

Rest: One of the best things to do when you have a cold is to get adequate rest. Your body’s

immune system is working overtime to combat the cold virus, and restricting activity can help it direct efforts where they’re needed most. Keep away from strenuous activities, and spend more time relaxing or sleeping to let your body do its job.

Hydration: Consuming plenty of clear fluids can reduce congestion and ensure that you do not get dehydrated. Plus, warm beverages can be soothing to an irritated throat. Avoid coffee, caffeinated sodas and alcohol, which can exacerbate dehydration.

Saline rinses: Intra-nasal saline sprays, neti pots and similar products can help loosen mucus that is clogging the nose and sinus cavities, allowing it to flow out. This makes blowing your nose more effective and may help

prevent post-nasal drip. Avoid prolonged use of medicated decongestant sprays. They may work well, but they can cause rebound congestion that’s worse than the original stuffiness.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C will not prevent colds, but it could help in other ways. Taking vitamin C before the onset of cold symptoms may shorten the duration of symptoms. Vitamin C also may provide benefits for people at high risk of colds due to frequent exposure, offers The Mayo Clinic.

Soup and tea: Soup is an easy-to-digest meal that provides many of the necessary remedies for a cold, including warm broth to hydrate and soothe, antioxidant-rich vegetables and protein to help fuel the body’s recovery process. In 2000, Dr. Stephen

Rennard of the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha actually tested if chicken soup clinically makes people with colds feel better. He found that chicken soup inhibited neutrophils, immune cells that cause congestion. Decaffeinated tea also may help you stay hydrated and relieve many cold symptoms.

Reinfection: Use cleaning products that are effective at killing viruses around the house to prevent reinfection and cold relapses. Also, avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth between hand-washings to keep germs at bay.

Colds can be a nuisance. Most medicines will help relieve symptoms but cannot make colds go away faster. Natural remedies can help the body’s immune system work at its best and lessen the severity of a cold.

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2017 Regional Medical Directory

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Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It is a progressive, degenerative disorder that attacks neurons and essentially robs people of their memory and language skills. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are therapies that can slow its neurological impact.

Recognizing the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s can encourage people to begin treatments that can stave off some of the more debilitating symptoms of this disease.

Though it’s most common among the elderly, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. The Mayo Clinic says that the reasons behind the inception and progression of Alzheimer’s disease are largely unknown.

It is believed damage starts a decade or more before problems become evident. Abnormal deposits of proteins begin to form the amyloid plaques and tau tangles throughout the brain, and these formations are the hallmarks of the disease. Once-healthy neurons gradually begin to lose their efficiency and ability to function and communicate with one another. As more neurons die, entire areas of the brain shrink. The hippocampus, which is the area of the brain essential in forming memories, may soon become compromised.

Millions of people in North Ameri- visual and spatial issues also may be ca are estimated to have Alzheimer’s early indicators of Alzheimer’s. disease and many others will be diagnosed. The following are the most Difficulty completing common early signs and symptoms of familiar tasks the disease.

Those with Alzheimer’s sometimes have trouble driving to a familiar loMemory loss cation or remembering the rules to a favorite game. People who were once According to the Alzheimer’s good with numbers may now have Organization, early memory loss can include forgetting important dates or difficulty balancing their checkbooks, repeatedly asking for the same infor- while those who love to cook may have trouble following recipes. mation. Forgetting recently learned information and having to rely increasingly on memory aids is another Time confusion potential indicator of Alzheimer’s.

Another indicator of Alzheimer’s disease is losing track of time. One Declining cognition may have trouble understanding something that isn’t happening in the Impaired reasoning or judgment, present. Alzheimer’s sufferers often trouble finding the right words and

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forget where they are and how they got there.

Misplacing items Everyone loses something at a point in time, but those with Alzheimer’s may put items in unusual places. They may sometimes accuse others of stealing when they cannot retrace their steps and find items.

Decreased judgment Decision-making abilities may be compromised. A person with Alzheimer’s may take unnecessary risks or give away sums of money.

Mood changes People with Alzheimer’s may

2017 Regional Medical Directory

suffer from confusion, suspicious feelings, depression and anxiety. A person may upset easily or become anxious outside of his or her comfort zones.

Age and family history of Alzheimer’s disease are the biggest risk factors. The likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s doubles about every five years after age 65, says the Alzheimer’s Organization. In addition, those with a parent, child or sibling who have developed Alzheimer’s are more likely to develop the disease than people with no such family history.

A physical and neurological exam, which may include blood tests and brain imaging, will be used to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals can learn more by making appointments with their doctors.

Simple ways to maintain your mental acuity Many people know that a combination of a healthy diet and routine exercise is the best way to maintain their physical health.

But what about mental well-being?

Memory lapses are often assumed to be an accepted side effect of aging, but such an assumption is incorrect, as there are many steps men and women can take to maintain their mental acuity well into their golden years.

Find time for cardiovascular exercise. Cardiovascular exercise can help men and women maintain healthy weights and reduce their risk for potentially deadly ailments like diabetes and heart disease. But cardiovascular exercise also can boost brain power. Cardiovascular exercise pumps oxygen-rich blood to the brain, and that blood contains glucose that can fuel brain cells. Cardiovascular exercise also strengthens blood vessels, which can help prevent potentially devastating diseases, such as stroke, that can have a lasting and negative impact on cognitive function.

Find time for friends and family. Many people need no reason to socialize, but those that do can now cite boosting brain function as a great reason to get together with family and friends. Routine socialization can keep a brain sharp by reducing its levels of cortisol, a potentially destructive hormone brought on by stress. Researchers also believe that routine interac-

tion with other people stimulates structures in the brain’s frontal lobe that are likely responsible for planning, decision making and response control.

Squeeze in a nap every so often. Naps can have a reenergizing effect on men and women, but a study from German researchers also found that naps also can improve memory. In the study, researchers divided participants into three groups: people who would stay awake for 60 minutes; people who would sleep for six minutes; and people who would sleep for 30 to 45 minutes. After the hour was up, participants were given a word recall test, and those who slept performed better on the test than those who hadn’t. But the development that was perhaps most interesting was that those who slept for just six minutes performed just as well Prioritizing a good night’s sleep is one way to improve memory. on the test as those who slept for HEALTH PLANS far longer, leading researchers to suggest that men and women need not take long naps to improve their memories.

Include fish in your diet. A study from researchers at Chicago’s Rush University Medical Center found that people who eat fish once per week have a 60 percent lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than those who do not include fish in their weekly diets. ResearchInsurance Underwritten By: ers credit this lower risk to DHA, an Freedom Life Insurance Company of America omega-3 fatty acid that is found in both the brain and in fish such as Not all products available in all states. Exclusions & limitations apply. See Licensed Agent for details.

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6 myths associated with menopause At some point in a woman’s life she will enter into a period called menopause. Unlike what the name might suggest, menstruation does not “pause” upon entering menopause.

Rather, it ceases to occur from this point on, ending the fertile, reproductive time for females.

The North American Menopause Society says menopause typically begins around age 51. It also may be induced through medical intervention at an earlier age.

Women are encouraged to discuss menopause with their healthcare providers so they can better understand their bodies. That’s especially important since certain myths about menopause still prevail.

Myth #1: Menopause is a disease.

Menopause is an inevitable part of aging and a process that occurs naturally and spontaneously. Menopause affects each woman differently. While some women struggle with any number of symptoms, others may feel as if their lives have not changed much at all since entering menopause.

Myth #2: Menopause happens suddenly. Women do not wake up one day and discover they have entered menopause. Doctors at the Menopause Center at Texas Children’s Hospital’s Pavilion for Women say that menopause is characterized by a subtle fluctuation of hormones that will gradually lead to menopause. Unless menopause results from a hysterectomy procedure or another medical intervention, it should happen slowly over the course of a few years. The period leading up to a last menstrual period is called perimenopause.

Myth #3: Perimenopause eliminates pregnancy risk. A woman is not totally protected from an unplanned pregnancy until a year has passed since her most recent menstrual cycle. Even if periods are infrequent or unreliable, the NAMS advises that women choose another effective method of birth control if they do not want another pregnancy.

Myth #4: Menopause means gaining weight. Many women gain

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weight after menopause, and hormonal changes can affect the body’s metabolism. However, weight gain can be controlled. A 2003 study from researchers at the Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh studied 535 premenopausal women who were followed throughout menopause. The study discovered that, after five years, women were able to remain at or below their baseline weight by following a strict diet and exercising regularly. Women generally need cut their calorie intake by 200 calories after reaching menopause to

keep weight down.

Myth #5: All hormone replacement therapies are the same. NAMS says it is now believed that women who have had a hysterectomy can take estrogen alone, but those who still have a uterus need progestogen added to protect against endometrial cancer. Doctors can work with women to customize hormone replacement therapies to reduce risks.

Myth #6: Hot flashes are unavoidable. Hormonal shifts trigger hot flashes in many menopausal women.

However, hot flashes may vary in frequency and intensity depending on

2017 Regional Medical Directory

the individual. In addition, Dr. Sheryl Ross, OB/GYN at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, says the first two or three years of menopause tend to be the worst for hot flashes. After those initial two or three years, hot flashes may lessen in intensity or become less frequent.

Menopause can be a confusing time for women, as it involves changes to the body women have not yet experienced. Women can combat that confusion by discussing their symptoms or concerns with their physicians.

Managing the costs of assisted living As individuals age, various circumstances have to be reassessed.

A current living situation may not be meeting the needs of a senior who may be having difficulty caring properly for himself or herself. Families often consider senior residences to provide welcoming and safe environments for their loved ones during the golden years of their lives. These facilities may range from independent living homes with minimal care offered to nursing homes that provide more intensive care when needed. Somewhere in the middle lies assisted living homes, which blend the independence of personal residences with other amenities, such as the housekeeping, medication reminders or meal services.

Assisted living can be a viable option when a person can no longer live alone, but such facilities come with a price.

According to a Market Survey of LongTerm Care Costs conducted by MetLife, the national average for assisted living base rates was $3,550 per month in 2012. In the 2015 Cost of Care Survey conducted by Genworth Financial, the assisted living, national-median monthly rate was now $3,600 - and it’s only expected to grow. Affording these homes and apartments can be challenging for those with fixed incomes, but there are some strategies that can help.

The payment method that serves you best will depend on your unique circumstances, but there are options available.

to pay for assisted living with their own savings and retirement nest eggs. However, it’s easy for savings to become depleted when facing a $40,000+ per year bill.

Life insurance

A financial advisor may advocate to pay for assisted living with a life insurance policy. Some companies enable you to cash out for “accelerated” or “living” benefits, which usually is a buy-back of the policy for 50 to 75 percent of the Long-term care face value. Other third parties may insurance purchase the policy for a settlement Long-term care insurance is special- of a lump sum, again roughly 50 to ized insurance that is paid into and may 75 percent of the policy’s face value, cover the cost of assisted living facilities according to Caring.com, an online source for support and information and other medical care, depending on the policy. The American Association for about the needs of aging people.

Long-Term Care Insurance says that only roughly 3 percent of Americans have Location this type of insurance, but it is someCosts of assisted living facilities thing to consider during working years. vary depending on location. It’s possible to get a lower monthly rate simply Personal savings by choosing a facility in a different state.

Some people have the means

Negotiation

Veteran’s benefits

Not all prices are set in stone.

Speak with a manager at the facility and see if there is any price flexibility or move-in incentives.

You also may be able to get a lower rate by negotiating certain a-la-carte costs against all-inclusive pricing. Perhaps you do not need laundry or shopping services, and family members can fill in the gaps, reducing your bill.

2017 Regional Medical Directory

Many veterans are eligible for care benefits that can offset the cost of assisted living care.

Rooms Opting for a smaller room or sharing a space can keep costs down as well.

See if shared rooms are a possibility.

Assisted living is a necessity for thousands of people. Explore the ways to finance this purchase.

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What exactly is cancer?

Cancer can affect anyone. Sometimes it strikes with no warning, while other times people may have a genetic predisposition. Various medical organizations say there are between 100 and 200 different types of cancer. Everyone has heard of cancer, but some are still unsure of what cancer is.

Defining cancer The organization Cancer Research UK defines cancer as abnormal cell growth. Cancer cells are cells that divide in an uncontrolled way. New human cells normally grow and divide to form new cells as the body requires them. As healthy cells grow old or become damaged, they die off and new cells take their place. However, when cancer develops, this process goes haywire. Damaged cells become even more abnormal and can survive when they would normally die. These cells keep multiplying and eventually can form lumps or masses of tissue called tumors. This is the case in most cancers, with the exception of leukemia, wherein cancer prohibits normal blood function due to abnormal cell division in the bloodstream.

Not all lumps in the body are tumors. Lumps that remain in place and do not spread to other areas of the body can be harmless or benign. According to the American Cancer Society, cancerous tumors are malignant, which means they can spread into, or invade, nearby tissues. Cancer stages actually are determined based by how far cancerous cells have spread beyond their point of origin.

Cancer stages Cancer is staged according to particular criteria based on each individual type of cancer. Generally

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speaking, lower stages of cancer, such as stage 1 or 2, refer to cancers that have not spread very far. Higher stages of cancer, such as 3, mean cancer has branched out more.

Stage 4 refers to cancer that has spread considerably.

or other connective tissues.

Leukemia begins in the blood and bone marrow.

Lymphomas start in the immune system.

Central nervous system cancers develop in the brain and spinal cord.

Cancer is treated in various Common forms of ways and depends on the cancer’s cancer stage, type and effects on the body. A person’s age as well as Cancer can occur just about anyhis or her current health status where in the body. Cancers of the also may play a role in treatment breast, lung, colon, and prostate decisions made by both the patient cancers affect males and females and his or her medical team. Surin high numbers.

Classifying cancer involves gery may be conducted to remove understanding where the cancer a tumor, while chemotherapy originated. Cancer Treatment employs chemicals to kill cancerCenters of America offers these ous cells. Radiation therapy, which classifications: uses X-rays to direct radiation Carcinomas begin in the skin toward cancerous cells, is another potential cancer treatment. The or tissues that line the side effects of each treatment internal organs. vary, and there are ways to miti Sarcomas develop in the bone, cartilage, fat, muscle gate these effects.

2017 Regional Medical Directory

Why does cancer occur?

Cancer develops for various reasons - some of which may not be fully understood. The National Cancer Institute states genetic changes that cause cancer can be inherited from a person’s parents. Cancers can also arise during a person’s lifetime as a result of errors that occur as cells divide or because of damage to DNA that results from certain environmental exposures. Cancer-causing substances include the chemicals in tobacco smoke. Ultraviolet rays from the sun also have been linked to cancer.

Learning more about cancer can help people reduce their risk for developing this potentially deadly disease. Individuals should always speak with their physicians if they have specific questions about cancer.

Choosing an oncologist Cancer continues to affect people from all walks of life. The National Cancer Institute says approximately 39.6 percent of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetimes. However, the good news is that many people with cancer are seeing their diseases go into remission as survival rates continue to improve. This is thanks to many factors, including advancements in cancer treatments and therapies and the growing number of oncologists who specialize in targeted treatments.

Oncologists are specialists who treat cancer, specifically with regard to managing a person’s care and treatment after he or she has been diagnosed. The field of oncology has three major areas, says The Journal of Clinical Oncology. These include medical, surgical and radiation. A medical oncologist treats cancer using chemotherapy or other targeted medications. A surgical oncologist specializes in tumor removal and will typically perform biopsies and other surgical procedures as they pertain to cancer treatment. A radiation oncologist works with radiation therapy to treat cancer.

In addition to specializing in one field of oncology, oncologists also may have specific skills as they pertain to one type of cancer. For example, a gynecologic oncologist will be knowledgeable in gynecologic cancers, such as cancers of the uterus and cervix.

Upon receiving a cancer diagnosis, patients are typically treated by a team of oncologists. That’s because cancer treatment is diverse and will often require a combination of therapeutic efforts. Patients can have a say in which oncologists they use and are advised to seek out different opinions to find treatment plans they are comfortable with.

The following is some advice on how to guide those research efforts.

Seek a recommendation from your general practitioner.

The doctor who diagnosed the can-

cer will likely be able to refer you to an oncologist. He or she may know which oncologists have a particularly good track record and can guide you in a certain direction.

Use searchable databases.

Various cancer organizations have searchable databases through which you can learn about the various affiliated oncologists.

Consult with your insurance company. Cancer treatments can be expensive, and treatments may span several months and entail various therapies. Doctors and treatment centers that participate in your health insurance plan will be considerably less expensive than those operating outside of your coverage.

Look for a doctor who specializes in your type of cancer.

Working with a doctor who specializes in your cancer may provide you with the peace of mind needed to fight the disease, and someone with a track record of fighting your particular disease may be more skilled at treating the cancer than someone whose experience lies elsewhere.

Look into oncologists who work at teaching hospitals.

Oncologists working at teaching hospitals may have access to clinical trials or be required to continually update their credentials. Oncologists who also teach may be current on the latest therapies and be more capable of explaining your disease and treatment than doctors who do not teach.

Look for a convenient treatment location. Finding an oncologist who practices at a facility close to home can be an added bonus and one that shaves some of the stress off of the impending treatment.

Short trips to and from treatment may help you maintain your energy levels.

Cancer patients who find a capable oncologist they are comfortable with may find it easier to beat their disease and clear the hurdles they encounter during treatment.

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Robotic surgery can be advantageous Certain illnesses or injuries require surgery to correct the problem or prevent further damage.

Surgery is not something many people would volunteer for, but it can be a necessity in certain instances.

Patients may have many questions when they learn that surgery is on the horizon. Robotic surgery in particular may raise patients’ eyebrows.

Robotic surgery is a relatively recent development. According to UC Health and Mount Carmel Medical Center, robotic surgery is an advanced form of minimally invasive or laparoscopic (small incision) surgery. Compared to open surgeries, robotic surgery offers many benefits to patients, some of which include: minimal scarring reduced blood loss faster recovery time reduced risk of infection reduced pain and discomfort possibly shorter hospitalization faster recovery time Robotic surgery works similarly to traditional surgery, but instead of the surgeon working manually, robotic arms take over. During robotic surgery, typically three robotic arms are inserted into the patient through small incisions. One arm is a camera and the other two serve as the surgeon’s “hands.” In some instances, a fourth arm is used to clear away any obstructions. Surgeons will perform the procedure using a computer-controlled console.

Robotic surgery does not mean that a robot is taking the place of a surgeon. Rather, robotic surgery combines the skills and knowledge of surgeons with advancements in technology in an effort to improve surgical procedures. Many surgeons prefer robotic surgery because of its precision and the superior visualization of the surgical field that the procedure provides. It’s also easier to account for tremors in the hands, and the machinery enables greater maneuverability.

UC Health explains how robotic surgery works The surgeon will work from a computer console in the operating room, controlling the miniaturized instruments mounted on the robotic arms. He or she looks through a 3-D camera attached to another robotic arm, which magnifies the surgical site. The surgeon’s hand, wrist and finger movements will be transmitted through the computer console

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to the instruments attached to the robot’s arms. The mimicked movements have the same range of motion as the surgeon, allowing for maximum control. While the surgeon is working, the surgical team will supervise the robot at the patient’s bedside.

Men, women and children can benefit from robotic surgery, which has become especially helpful for gynecologic conditions. Robotic surgery has been used in the treatment of cancers of

2017 Regional Medical Directory

the abdomen, as well as pelvic masses, fibroids, tumors, and tubal ligations. Robotic surgery also can be used for pelvic reconstruction surgeries and to treat incontinence and organ prolapse.

Although the success rates of traditional surgery versus robotic surgery have been relatively similar, many people are now leaning toward robotic surgery because of its advantages - and seeking doctors and hospitals trained in robotic surgery.

The best (and worst) foods for heart health No one wants to hear from their doctors that they have joined the millions of people across the globe to be diagnosed with heart disease. The Heart Foundation reports that heart disease, which includes diseases of the heart and cardiovascular system and stroke, is the No. 1 cause of death in the United States, affecting both men and women and most racial/ ethnic groups. Heart disease also is one of the leading causes of death in Canada, claiming more than 33,000 lives per year.

Many factors contribute to the development of heart disease, including smoking, lack of exercise and stress.

Diet and whether a person is overweight or obese also can have a direct link to heart health. Diet, particularly for those with diabetes and poorly controlled blood sugar levels, is a major concern.

A variety of foods are considered helpful for maintaining a strong and healthy heart and cardiovascular system, while others can contribute to conditions that may eventually lead to cardiovascular disease or cardiac arrest. Moderation enables a person

to sample a little of everything, but not to make any one food a habit. The following are some foods to promote heart health and some foods you might want to avoid.

Good Tree nuts: Tree nuts contain unsaturated fats that can help lower LDL cholesterol (the bad stuff) and improve HDL (the good stuff). Nuts also are a filling source of protein and other healthy nutrients.

Whole grains: Whole grains contain complex carbohydrates for energy, as well as protein and fiber.

Fiber can help scrub cholesterol from the blood, lowering bad cholesterol levels.

Fatty fish: Many cold-water, fatty fish, such as halibut, herring and salmon, contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are heart-healthy. Omega-3s also can be found in walnuts, flaxseed and some soy products.

Beans: Beans and other legumes are an excellent source of protein and can be a stand-in for meats that are high in saturated fat. Beans also con-

tain cholesterol-lowering soluble fiber and folate, which can reduce blood homocystein levels. The Bean Institute reports that consuming beans may reduce cholesterol levels by roughly six to 10 percent.

Yogurt: Researchers in Japan found yogurt may protect against gum disease. Left untreated, gum disease may elevate a person’s risk for heart disease. Yogurt contains good bacteria that can counteract bad bacteria and boost immunity.

Raisins: Raisins contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation. Inflammation is often linked to heart disease and other debilitating conditions. Fresh produce also is a good source of antioxidants.

Poor Fried foods: Many fried foods have little nutritional value, as they tend to be high in saturated and trans fats. French fries are particularly bad because they are carbohydrates fried and then doused in salt.

Sausage: Processed meats have frequently earned a bad reputation

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among cardiologists, but sausage can be a big offender, due in large part to its high saturated fat content.

Red meats: Enjoying a steak is probably not as bad as eating a deepfried brownie, but it’s best to limit red meat consumption to about 10 percent or less of your diet. Red meats can have a considerable amount of cholesterol, saturated fat and calories.

Added sugars: Sugar can increase blood pressure and triglyceride levels.

Sugar often hides out in foods that you would not associate with the sweetener. Plus, many people unwittingly consume too much sugar simply through sugar-sweetened beverages and ready-to-eat cereals.

Salty foods: Leave the salt shaker in the spice cabinet and opt for herbs for flavoring, advises the American Heart Association. High-sodium diets often are to blame for hypertension, a major risk factor for heart disease.

Dairy: Artery-clogging saturated fat also can be found in dairy products, particularly the full-fat versions.

Butter, sour cream and milk can be problematic when people overindulge.

Opt for low-fat dairy when possible.

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Exercise and arthritis

Aerobic exercise, including walking, can help alleviate the pain associated with arthritis.

Across the country, more than 50 million people are living with doctor-diagnosed arthritis. So says the Arthritis Foundation, which projects that figure will rise to 67 million by the year 2030.

Simply put, arthritis is a significant problem, one that can not only affect a person’s quality of life, but also his or her pocketbook, as the Arthritis Foundation notes that working-age men and women (those between the ages of 18 and 64) who contend with arthritis are less likely to be employed than people of the same age who do not have arthritis. Arthritis is not only bad for employees, but also for employers, as it accounts for $156 billion annually in lost wages and medical expenses.

Exercise may be the last thing on many arthritis sufferers’ minds, but exercise can play a vital role in reducing the often painful symptoms associated with arthritis. Among its other benefits, exercise can strengthen the muscles around arthritic joints and help men and women maintain bone strength. In addition, the Mayo Clinic notes that lack of exercise can make joints feel more painful and stiff, as a sedentary lifestyle will ultimately contribute to putting more stress on joints.

Upon being diagnosed with arthritis, patients should speak with their physicians about the best way to use exercise to combat and relieve their symptoms.

Some patients may require physical therapy, while extra pounds. Losing excess weight is a great way others might be able to work with their physicians to make physical activity less taxing on your joints to develop an exercise regimen that can help reduce as well. the severity of their symptoms and any pain that accompanies those symptoms. The following are some Range-of-motion types of exercises that figure to play a strong role in managing arthritis and improving quality of life.

Range-of-motion exercises are typically simple and don’t take much time, but when done correctly, such exercises can be very effective at relieving the Aerobic exercises stiffness associated with arthritis. A physician or physical therapist might advise you to do range-ofLow-impact aerobic exercises, such as walking and swimming, can help arthritis sufferers alleviate motion exercises each day, and you may even need to do them a few times each day. Adhere to this their symptoms and improve their overall health.

Arthritis sufferers who have not exercised in awhile advice, continuing to perform the exercises as long as your doctor or physical therapists deems them because of their pain may have gained weight as a necessary. result, and aerobic exercise is a great way to shed

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Strength training As previously noted, arthritis sufferers may feel as though lifting weights will only exacerbate their existing symptoms. But strength training will strengthen the muscles around the joints, providing more support for those joints and ultimately reducing symptoms of pain. Speak with your physician or physical therapist about appropriate strength-training activities and the importance of rest. If you experience any pain during strength-training sessions, stop immediately and report the pain to your physician.

More information about managing arthritis can be found at www.arthritis.org.

Simple ways to stay fit all year long Many people find it easier to maintain their beach bodies during summer than they do throughout the rest of the year. Summer weather encourages people to get off the couch and enjoy the great outdoors, and many people prefer to eat lighter meals during the summer to combat the heat and humidity.

But once the dog days of summer give way to autumn, the motivation to stay in beach shape tends to wane. Couple that dwindling motivation with the tendency to eat larger, heartier meals as the weather gets colder, and it’s easy to see why so many people gain weight over the last several months of the year and into the new year. But maintaining a healthy weight year-round promotes long-term health and reduces a person’s risk for various ailments and diseases, including heart disease and diabetes. The following are a handful of strategies men and women can employ as they try to turn their beach bodies into the bodies they see in Joining an exercise group is one way men and women can stay motivated and maintain healthy weights year-round. the mirror all year long.

Keep setting goals As winter heads toward spring, many people set short-term goals to motivate them to get back into beach shape. That’s a highly effective strategy that need not be exclusive to late winter. Setting short-term fitness and dietary goals throughout the year can keep you from falling back into bad habits. Tie your goals into the season to increase your chances for success. For example, resolve to run outdoors or cycle a certain number of miles each week in autumn, when the weather is still conducive to physical activity and the scenery is idyllic. When winter arrives and exercising outdoors is no longer viable, commit to attending a few fitness classes per week at your gym.

Switch up your workout routine every few weeks

locally sourced and/or in-season foods, recognizing the positive impact that such dietary habits can have on the environment. That Boredom also can affect people’s commitment to buying healthy, ability to maintain healthy weights locally grown foods can be tested year-round. Adhering to the same ex- as the seasons change and the ercise routine for months on end can offerings at your local market grow tedious. The body can even grow change along with them. Educate accustomed to the same workout yourself about which foods are routine, meaning you won’t be getting in-season in your area throughout as much out of your exercise sessions the year, opting for the most nuas you might if you switch things up. tritious foods you can find. Buying If you find your daily workouts taking in-season foods saves you money, a turn toward the mundane, switch and you will also feel good about up your routine by changing exercises staying on a nutritious, eco-friendor signing up for classes that interest ly track. you.

Find healthy seasonal foods Many people prefer to buy

Join an exercise group or sports league

The buddy system is an effective way to stay committed to a

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fitness regimen, but if you cannot find a friend or family member to brave cold winter treks to the gym with you, then consider joining an exercise group or competitive sports league. As summer turns to autumn, join a road runner’s club to motivate you to run. When harsh weather makes running outdoors too difficult, sign up for a winter sports league. Such groups or leagues get you off the couch and provide great opportunities to meet like-minded men and women who have made their own commitments to staying fit.

Staying fit all year long is a challenge for many people. But maintaining that beach body even after summer has come and gone need not be so difficult.

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