February Peoria Healthy Cells 2011 by Healthy Cells Magazine

GREATER PEORIA

FEBRUARY 2011

FREE

HealthyCells

area

Promoting Healthier Living in Your Community

• Physical

M A G A Z I N E

www.healthycellsmagazine.com

• Emotional • Nutritional

Comfort of Home… and “Therapy, Too!”

Doubting your Diagnosis?

page 12

Headaches and Oral Facial Pain Revealed

Managing Parental Stress

Varicose and Spider Veins Misconceptions & Facts

page 22

page 26

page 33

letter from the owner

Happy Valentine’s Day! Ever since I can remember, chocolates and flowers seem to be the gift of choice when it comes to Valentine’s Day. Actually, both are lovely gifts, especially the chocolate if it is dark and already in a portion controlled box. In this month’s issue, the article “Wake Up Your Brain” challenges us to do things differently than we have done previously and encourages us to try new things to keep us stimulated. Here is an idea to “Wake Up Your Brain” this Valentine’s Day: Reach out to someone that you normally would not contact on Valentine’s Day – a lost friend, a shut in, an elderly relative or someone who has recently been divorced or has lost a loved one. This person would greatly appreciate some “sweet attention” on this special day. In fact, it may be the best Valentine’s Day gift you have ever given. Sincerely, Photo Courtesy of Photography by Jill

Kim Brooks-Miller, Owner, Healthy Cells Magazine, Greater Peoria Area Edition. Comments or questions call: 309-681-4418 or e-mail: peoria.healthycells@hotmail.com

Forty to Fifty Million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies. Anyone with allergies or asthma should be able to feel good, be active all day and sleep well at night. You don’t need to accept less. An Allergist can help you find relief so you can enjoy life. My staff and I are trained to work with you to determine what causes your problems and to develop a tailored plan that matches your lifestyle and provides the most effective treatment.

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February 2011 — Peoria — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 3

February 6

Physical: Understanding Low Back Pain

2011

This Month’s Cover Story:

Volume 13, Issue 2

Comfort of Home and “Therapy, Too!” page 12

Nutritional: Avocados…Friend or Foe?

Emotional: Advocating for Your Child’s Educational Needs

Fitness: Tips for Getting Active

Tobacco Quitline:

Headaches and Oral Facial Pain: Doubting Your Diagnosis?

Quit While You Can

Electromagnetic Radiation: Cell Phone Protection Plan for Your Body and Brain

Effective Parenting: Stress—A Necessary Part of Life

Exploring Aging: Fight the Flu with Facebook

Mental Exercise: Wake Up Your Brain

Community News: Central Illinois Heart 777 Cardiac Network

Vascular Defects: Varicose and Spider Veins Misconceptions and Facts

Heritage Manor-Chillicothe Healthy Cells Magazine is intended to heighten awareness of health and fitness information and does not suggest diagnosis or treatment. This information is not a substitute for medical attention. See your healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment. The opinions, statements, and claims expressed by the columnists, advertisers, and contributors to Healthy Cells Magazine are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher. Healthy Cells Magazine is available FREE at over 600 locations, including major grocery stores throughout central Illinois as well as hospitals, physicians’ offices, pharmacies, and health clubs. 12,000 copies are published monthly. Healthy Cells Magazine welcomes contributions pertaining to healthier living in central Illinois. Limelight Communications, Inc. assumes no responsibility for their publication or return. Solicitations for articles shall pertain to physical, emotional, and nutritional health only. Mission: The objective of Healthy Cells Magazine is to promote a stronger health-conscious community by means of offering education and support through the cooperative efforts among esteemed health and fitness professionals in central Illinois.

For advertising information, contact Kim Brooks-Miller 309-681-4418 email: peoria.healthycells@hotmail.com Healthy Cells Magazine is a division of:

1711 W. Detweiller Dr., Peoria, IL 61615 Ph: 309-681-4418 Fax: 309-691-2187 info@limelightlink.com

JUSTIN AHLMAN, M.D., MS. DABPM

February 2011 — Peoria — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 5

physical

Understanding Low Back Pain and the treatment options that are available By Robert L. McCary, Prairie Spine & Pain Institute

ccording to the 2007 American Pain Society’s clinical guidelines for the evaluation and management of low back pain, presenting to your physician’s office with the complaints of back pain is extremely common. Though estimates vary widely, studies in developed countries report point prevalences of 12% to 33%, one-year prevalences of 22% to 65%, and lifetime prevalences of 11% to 84%. In the U.S., nonspecific mechanical low back pain is the fifth most

common reason for all physician visits, and the second most common symptomatic reason, accounting for approximately 2.3% of all physician visits (Chou and Huffman, 2007 & Rundell, Davenport, & Wagner, 2009, p. 1-2). So how does your health care provider differentiate your pain from acute (sudden) versus chronic (long-term) pain and what does this Page 6 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

mean for you? Acute pain is defined as pain experienced for 12 weeks (3 months), while chronic pain is experienced for more than 12 weeks (Chou and Huffman, 2007). When you present to your health care provider differentiating the type of pain is very important along with information obtained during the interview process. Many experts suggest that the treatment of acute and chronic pain begins with identifying the source of the pain. This is the reason why providing accurate details of your back pain is extremely important and the acquisition of such information is essential in establishing an individualized treatment plan for you. Regardless of the type of pain, being in pain can be devastating to your way of life. It affects both your mood and emotional state, your physical activity levels, your sleep patterns, your activities of daily living (ADLs), and also your pain can have an impact on those around you. When presenting to your health care provider, these considerations are taken into account and measures are implemented to try and restore some equilibrium back into your life. At Prairie Pain & Spine Institute in Peoria, one of the most reliable and validated quality pain assessment tools that we use is the Owestry Disability Index (ODI). Dr. Richard A. Kube II, M.D., FACSS, the practice’s CEO and double board certified spine surgeon, chose this particular tool as a means for the patients to provide a pre and post objective measurement of your pain experience. The treatment plan for chronic and/or acute low back pain begins with the initial visit to your health care provider. At that time, the provider’s evaluation will involve obtaining a detailed history, performing a specific physical examination, and then establishing a treatment plan specifically tailored to your individual needs. The plan of care and interventions that are implemented to treat your pain are based upon several items such as: 1. evidenced-based standards of care; 2. current treatment guidelines; 3. your prior level of functioning; and 4. establishing realistic outcomes based upon your assessment findings. The treatment of pain is mostly a step-wise process that begins with the least invasive, cost effective, and the least debilitating of medications. Each intervention is reassessed for its effectiveness and then adjustments of the treatment plan are made based upon these new findings. For example, if the anti-inflammatory medications, rest,

heat/cold packs, and limited physical activity are ineffective in reducing your symptoms, the provider will, in a step-wise fashion, add additional treatment options. The course of treatements that your provider may choose to implemented can be either invasive, none-invasive, or both. Non-invasive interventions include, but are not limited to, rest, ice/heat, medications, and resuming physical activity as soon as possible. Medications that are typically prescribed in the treatment of low back pain are antiinflammatories, narcotics, or muscle relaxants. The use of anti-inflammatories are important because they serve two purposes- first they reduce inflammation and second, provide pain relief. Stronger pain medications, such as an opiod or non-opiod based narcotic, are utilized only when the pain is unrelieved by a prescribed anti-inflammatory medication or other over the counter pain medications such as Tylenol or Aleve. Adjunctive therapies that may have an added benefit to your treatment plan involve the use of anti-depressants, topical creams or gels, or anti-seizure medications. Also, the Agency for Healthcare Policy and Research guidelines have determined that a gradual return to normal activities is more effective than prolonged bed rest for treating acute low back problems. Prolonged bed rest for more than 4 days may lead to further debilitation. This is why physical therapy is important in the treatment regimen. One concern I hear most often is a patient’s concern for developing an addiction to a narcotic pain medication. While being treated by your provider, take your medications as prescibed and when you need it. This is the only way you can ever get better and effectively manage your pain while your body is healing. There is little to no risk for developing an addiction from your pain medications if you take them appropriately. Taking your pain medications to relieve you pain is very different than

taking them with the sole purpose of getting “high”. Your health care provided is also available to answer any of your questions or concerns about this at anytime. Invasive treatment options come into play depending upon each individual patient’s specific circumstances. For example, a patient with a severly unstable back fracture will require surgical intervention as the initial treatment plan, as opposed to, a step-wise approach for a patient with a herniated disc. Invasive treatment options can include spinal blocks or steriod injections to relieve the pain and inflammation. Also available are the use of devices such as a TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) device inserted by a pain specialist. Whatever treatment regimine you and your health care provider chooses, ensure that you are actively engaged in the plan of care by asking questions, adhering to the plan of care, and staying the course- despite any setbacks. The road to recovery is long and not always easy. Also keep in mind that there is no “one size fits all” treatment course for every patient. What worked for your friend, family member, or associate may not provide you with the same results. So, always follow the professional advice of your health care provider. For more information, please contact the Prairie Spine & Pain Institute at (309) 691-7774 or visit www.prairiespine.com. References Chou, R. & Huffman, L. H. (2007). Guidelines for the evaluation and management of low back pain: Evidence Review. Glenview, IL: American Pain Society. Rundell, S. D., Davenport, T. E., & Wagner, T. (2009, January). Physical Therapist Management of Acute and Chronic Low Back Pain Using the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Physical Therapy, 89(1), 82-90.

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nutritional

Avocados… Friend or Foe? Submitted by Marianne Miller, Club Fitness

n the past, avocados were a “fruit” (yes, they are actually a fruit, not a vegetable), not allowed on many weight loss programs, chiefly due to the fat content. However avocados contain a wealth of nutrients; including dietary fiber, vitamins C and K, copper, sodium, potassium and folate. The potassium in avocados regulates blood pressure and avocados are virtually the only fruit that contains monounsaturated fat, which is the essential fat that we get from olives, olive oil and flaxseeds. These fats are essential to for all of our systems to run at their best! The American Heart Association claims that these fats help reduce blood cholesterol levels and decrease the risk for heart disease. Also, avocados are rich in carotenoids, which act as antioxidants. These carotenoids have been linked to enhancing the immune system and protecting our system from free radicals. A toxin found in avocados has actually been shown to kill cancer cells. Nutrients in avocados have also proven very beneficial in improving conditions concerning skin disorders, sexual function, digestive and circulatory problems. There are several ways to utilize this nutritious fruit. Brazilians use it to make ice cream and in the Philippines, it’s used to make a creamy avocado shake. When purchasing avocados…if you are looking for ripe choices, they should yield to a gentle squeeze. If they are still very firm, simply put them in a brown paper bag with an apple on your kitchen countertop to ripen. Avocados can be mashed to make guacamole, or dice them over your soups or salads. I am including my favorite avocado recipe…ENJOY!!

Marianne’s Avocado Salad Combine the following in a medium sized bowl: 1 Medium avocado-cubed 1 Roma tomato-cubed Enough sweet onion to taste, chopped 1 handful of sprouts (I prefer mung bean sprouts, but alfalfa would be great as well!) ¼ cup tabouli or quinoa 1 (small) handful of raw sunflower seeds Simply combine all of the above in a bowl and enjoy! This can be one of your five “mini-meals” throughout your day…It contains a healthy dose of dietary fiber, Omega 3 fatty acids and bounds of enzymes, vitamins and minerals. Quinoa is a complete protein, so this is also a perfect protein/ carbohydrate balance. By eating more “whole” foods…in the form of fresh fruits and veggies…raw when possible, we are feeding our 7million cells the nutrients they need. By eating more whole foods, and avoiding processed (garbage!) foods, your body will be fed the nutrients it needs to have more energy and vitality…and achieve your ideal body weight as well. Good luck! For additional information, please contact Marianne Miller at Club Fitness: miller.marianne1@ comcast.net or call 309-689-1400. Page 8 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

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emotional

Advocating for Your Child’s

Educational Needs By Amanda Kopp, Ph.D.

ome this time of year both teachers and parents start to notice some of their children performing below their potential, whether related to academic, emotional or behavioral problems. Sometimes schools take the initiative to assess the child’s needs while other times the issues go ignored or postponed. Many parents find themselves lost in the dark when it comes to the educational system; they want to help their children get the services needed yet do not know where to go or what to do.

Words to know: Americans with Disabilities Act—No one with a disability can be excluded from participating in federally funded programs or activities, including elementary, secondary or postsecondary schooling. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) - Includes mandates for appropriate instruction, necessary adaptations, modifications of curriculum, and protections against expulsion. Page 10 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

Disability—When a child cannot perform in school due to a physical, learning, behavioral, or emotional problem. IEP—Individual Education Plan, under IDEA, is only given to students with specific classifications and is focused on meeting the educational needs of the student. 504 Plan—The 504th section of The Americans with Disabilities Act which provides accommodations to help all students to have an opportunity perform at the same level as their peers. OHI—Other Health Impairment, used to describes disabilities such as ADHD. Psychological testing— is not only a mental health assessment, but also includes intelligence testing, and developmental assessments. This type of testing allows the psychologist to look at the whole person and integrate all information into their report.

Common Myths: Parents and students don’t have rights if they are not protected under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA); however they are more protected if there is evidence of a disability. • Children cannot be assessed if they do not have an Individual Education Plan (IEP). • The needs of a child can only be met if a child has an IEP. • If the school will not test my child he or she cannot be tested. Now that you know, what can be done? Always keep a line of communication open with your child’s teacher, you can ask for services at anytime; However they may not be given without the proper documentation (IEP, 504-Plan) One you notice there is a problem, set up a meeting with your child’s teacher and ask the crucial questions: What does the teacher see at school, how is the problem affecting the child and is there are steps the school or family can take to help at this time If the teacher will not make changes or those changes were not successful, ask to speak with the school psychologist or counselor. This is the person who will provide the testing. More often than not you will have to request that several tests be done to investigate and diagnose the problem. The diagnosis is what helps your child get either a 504-plan or an IEP The school may deny the testing and if this occurs then it is best to find a psychologist who specializes in testing children and adolescents. This person will do an interview with you and your child, determine which tests need to be done and create a report of all the information which can be taken back to the school as evidence of need for services. Once you have the evidence, whether it came from the school or an independent psychologist, request to have a meeting for eligibility. Have the Psychologist, who did the testing attend this meeting to discuss the results of their testing and give their recommendations for services. Before the meeting is over make sure that you feel all the services given to your child are adequate. You may request future meetings at any time if you believe the plan needs to be modified. It is rare but if after all of these efforts the school will still not provide services, consult with a lawyer who specializes in education law.

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Dr. Kopp is an employee of Psychology Specialists, Ltd. She is completing her Post Doctoral Resident in Clinical Psychology. Dr. Kopp sees patients in Canton and Peoria by appointment. She welcomes the opportunity to work with you! Her professional interests are working with adults, children and families. She can be reached at 309.648-0782. February 2011 — Peoria — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 11

heritage manor-chillicothe

Comfort of Home… and “Therapy, Too!” Offering Quality Rehab-to-Home Services at an Affordable Price By Mary Hilbert

ince 1997 the skilled nursing staff of Heritage Manor in Chillicothe has served Central Illinois’ residents with the comfort and quality care they need to adjust to the aging process and rehabilitate following trauma or illness. The facility’s services include therapy, respite care, hospice care and skilled nursing at an affordable cost to residents and their families. Rehab-to-home or short-term rehab is one of the central goals of Heritage Manor in Chillicothe. In-house speech, physical, occupational therapy and rehabilitative services are available at all locations. The primary purpose of rehab-to-home care is to return residents who are able to undergo therapy home as soon as possible, according to Lori Newberry, the facility’s Director of Nursing.

Newest addition to therapy services at Heritage Manor-Chillicothe: Therapy, Too!

Lead Therapist, Brad Rummel, works one-on-one with a resident. Page 12 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

Heritage Manor-Chillicothe has a capacity of 110 residents and provides a pleasant environment designed to recreate the comforts of home. Regenerating a sense of independence for seniors who need therapy after an accident or surgery is important. For higherfunctioning residents there are rooms dedicated specifically for Medicare and short-term stay residents which are located near a dining room where meals are served restaurant-style. Although nursing homes are often negatively stereotyped as serving seniors “end of life”, this is simply not the case, according to Brad Rummel, OTR/L, the facility’s lead therapist. While many residents return home following rehabilitation services, others enjoy the familial atmosphere and sense of community with peers. “Some residents come back to see us. Some have chosen to come here even though they know they can still be out there,” Rummel said. Weekly entertainment, bingo games, pastoral and church services

Therapy, Too! training room affords rehab-to-home residents a place to safely practice various daily living tasks before returning home. are available onsite for both lower and higher functioning residents, and during the warmer months a garden area, including a gazebo with walkways, makes for a welcoming environment. Highly-trained licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) oversee the individualized care of both long- and short-term residents at Heritage Manor 24 hours a day. Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) also administer care to all residents in many areas, including dressing, eating and bathing. Rehabilitation Therapy Services In the case of rehab-to-home services, an individualized level of care is an extremely important part of the process as each senior has his or her own medical history, needs, and length of recovery. Rehabilitation therapy is offered in three major areas: physical, occupational and speech. Physical therapists at Heritage Manor assist residents in improving overall mobility, strength and endurance as well as in helping seniors to decrease their level of pain when accomplishing these tasks. Improving joint, muscle, bone and nerve function that has suffered due to injury, illness or aging is a key part of this process. Occupational therapy entails re-teaching seniors how to perform day-to-day activities such as dressing, bathing and answering the phone, all important functions for living independently. Teaching patients strategies on ways to conduct day-to-day activities helps to improve self-image and reduce the fear of isolation. Espousing in each rehabto-home resident a sense of independence and confidence needed to return to their home and family is a top priority for Heritage Manor’s caregivers. “The discharge plan begins the moment they walk in the door,” Newberry said. Finally, for many seniors, speech, language and swallowing disorders also take a stressful toll on the ability to communicate. Speech therapists at Heritage ManorChillicothe work to improve the verbal functioning and memory of residents through an assessment of disorders and therapy. “Therapy, Too!” The “Therapy, Too!” room is a special rehabilitation room that enables therapists and nurses to work directly with residents in what is essentially a replicate of the basic home environment. The room is complete with a refrigerator, stove, washer, dryer, bed and bathroom. Nurses

and therapists work with these features to ensure that seniors are able to perform necessary maneuvers in the home such as bending, standing, and using the stove. Accomplishing these tasks safely with walkers or other supportive devices as needed is especially important. Heritage Manor-Chillicothe is one of three Heritage Manor locations in the state that provides a “Therapy, Too!” room for residents. The two other locations include Heritage Manor-Bloomington and Heritage Manor-Gibson City. Betty Crose, a rehab-to-home resident, spent two-and-a-half months undergoing treatment with therapists at Heritage Manor-Chillicothe and is now looking forward to regaining her independence.“It is great therapy,” Crose said, “It really helped me a lot.” According to Crose, her experience

Physical therapy programs are customized to each resident’s individual needs. February 2011 — Peoria — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 13

feature story

continued

with “Therapy, Too!” included spending almost two hours each day practicing daily habits such as getting in and out of bed and putting clothes in and out of a dryer. These are all things that many people take for granted, but with the aging process or diminished physical ability require more attention and care. Medical conditions that may benefit from therapy Aside from the basic wear-and-tear process the aging body undergoes, there are a wide number of medical conditions that may benefit from various forms of rehabilitation therapy. For example, in the case of physical therapy, the National Institute of Health (NIH) identifies stroke as the number one cause of serious disability among seniors. By undergoing physical therapy, an individual who has suffered a stroke can relearn how to perform basic motor activities such as standing, sitting, walking, lying down and transitioning between various positions. Manipulation of the patient’s body alongside repeated exercises and training can bring back balance and coordination. Occupational therapy uses various exercises to assist the stroke victim in re-learning activities like dressing, bathing, eating and swallowing, reading and writing, while speech therapy helps with re-learning language and communication skills. Other conditions that benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy in seniors include neurological disorders, cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases as well as orthopedic problems. Hip and joint replacement, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease and osteoporosis are just a few examples of specific conditions that have a debilitating effect on the human body’s ability to function. Respite Care Another form of short-term care offered to seniors by Heritage ManorChillicothe is called respite care. For many primary caregivers, taking care

The caregivers develop close relationships with residents. of an aging loved one is a number one priority and one which requires a strong commitment. However, caretaking on a full-time basis for an extended period may take a financial, emotional and physical toll on some. There are an estimated 48.9 million adult caregivers in the United States today, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving. “It gives caregiving families a period of relief,” said Dave Harper, Care Plan Coordinator. While for some caregivers placing a family member in a nursing home is not an ideal option, a period of respite care can prove beneficial to both the caregiver and the aging loved one. A Commonwealth Fund study found that three-fifths of family caretakers between the ages of 19 and 64 reported fair- to- poor health and struggle with one or more chronic illnesses compared to only onethird of non-caregivers. Elderly spousal caretakers between the ages of 66 and 96 who underwent caregiving-related stress were found to have a 63 percent higher mortality rate than non-caregivers of the same age. Length of stay for respite care residents can range from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the needs of those involved. “It’s about what’s important to you, what’s going to matter,” Harper said. Daycare services of up to eight hours a day are also available for caretakers through the facility. Long-term and short-term care resident admission is available 24 hours daily and seven days a week at Heritage Manor-Chillicothe. Heritage ManorChillicothe is a member of the Illinois Health Care Association and a supporter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

For more information on Heritage Manor locations and services, visit www.heritageofcare.com/chillicothe or contact Heritage Manor-Chillicothe The therapy team at Heritage Manor-Chillicothe provides a comprehensive approach to therapy. Page 14 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

309-274-2194.

February 2011 — Peoria — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 15

fitness

Tips for Getting Active

mall steps that get your family to move more can help all of you maintain a healthy weight. Choose a different tip each week for you and your family to try. See if you or they can add to the list. Here are a few:

Walk Whenever Possible • Walk instead of drive, whenever you can • Walk your children to school • Take the stairs instead of the escalator or elevator • Take a family walk after dinner • Replace a Sunday drive with a Sunday walk • Go for a half-hour walk instead of watching TV • Get off the bus a stop early, and walk • Park farther from the store and walk • Make a Saturday morning walk a family habit • Walk briskly in the mall • Take the dog on longer walks • Go up hills instead of around them Move More in Your Home • Garden, or make home repairs • Do yard work. Get your children to help rake, weed, or plant • Work around the house. Ask your children to help with active chores • Wash the car by hand • Use a snow shovel instead of a snow blower

Live Actively • Join an exercise group, and enroll your children in community sports teams or lessons • Do sit-ups in front of the TV. Have a sit-up competition with your kids • Pace the sidelines at kids’ athletic games • Choose an activity that fits into your daily life/lives • Use an exercise video if the weather is bad • Avoid labor-saving devices, such as a remote control or electric mixers • Play with your kids at least 30 minutes a day • Dance to music… with your kids • Choose activities you enjoy. Ask children what activities they want to do • Explore new physical activities • Give yourself a gold star with non-food related rewards, such as a family day at the park, lake, or zoo • Swim with your kids • Buy a set of hand weights and play a round of Simon Says with your kids—you do it with the weight Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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tobacco quitline

Quit While You Can

It Just Might Save Your Life By Jennifer Lareau, B.S., Health Educator, Peoria City/County Health Department

ach year, many people in the United States and around the world die from smoking-related diseases. In fact, it is known that half of the people who smoke will die directly from this harmful addiction and many of these deaths will occur when people are middle-aged. Cigarettes and the chemicals included in tobacco and nicotine are known to be linked to various types of cancers. This is because carbon monoxide and nicotine work against your heart. It speeds up your heart rate as well as your blood pressure. Smoking can also increase your risk of having a stroke and amputation, which is due to decreased speed of your blood flow, which decreases the oxygen in your hands and feet. If this is not corrected, this could easily lead to amputation. Smoking increases the amount of tar in your lungs, which can lead to throat and lung cancer. Smoking also takes oxygen away from the tissues in your body, including your brain and your muscles, which makes everything in your body work much harder. After a while, if you continue to smoke, the airways decrease, and it is more difficult to get air in your lungs. Emphysema and bronchitis are also common diseases that effect individuals who smoke. There are many good reasons not to smoke. Smoking poses a great health risk to individuals who smoke and to those around you. Subsequently, it is very important that you take steps to quit and safeguard not only your own body and health, but also those around you. If someone decides to stop smoking cold turkey, the benefits of quitting begin within twenty minutes. Some of those benefits include:

• 20 minutes after quitting: your blood pressure and pulse rate return to normal • 12 hours after quitting: your blood oxygen level will increase to normal

Page 20 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

• 48 hours after quitting: your sense of smell and taste begin to become normal • 2 weeks to 3 month after quitting: your heart attack risk has started to drop • 5-15 years after quitting: your risk of stroke has declined to that of a non-smoker • 10 years after quitting: your risk of death from lung cancer has declined by almost half if you were an average smoker (one pack per day)

As a way to help those smokers cope with the thought of quitting, the Peoria City/County Health Department works in conjunction with the American Lung Association’s (ALA) Call Center (Illinois Tobacco Quitline) to provide telephone counseling services for residents of Peoria County. The ALA’s Call Center (Illinois Tobacco Quitline) will offer free telephone counseling as an addition to Peoria City/County Health Department’s tobacco cessation program. Peoria County residents can call the Illinois Tobacco Quitline at 1-866-QUIT-YES (1-866-7848937) 7am-9pm Monday through Friday or visit at www.quityes.org for information on counseling and immediate help in quitting. If the individual proceeds with phone counseling, they will be able to access six (6) weeks of free nicotine replacement patches (NRT’s) as provided by the Peoria City/County Health Department as long as funds are available from the Illinois Department of Public Health. For more information about the smoking cessation program, the Illinois Tobacco Quitline, or how to receive these services, please call the Peoria City/County Health Department at (309) 679-6131 or visit www.pcchd.org.

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February 2011 — Peoria — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 21

headaches & oral facial pain

Doubting Your Diagnosis? Submitted by Illinois Institute of Dental Sleep Medicine complaining of headaches, jaw and facial pain as well as pain in the ears, never realizing that their pain was caused by a misalignment in their jaw,” says Costaras. Some people, however, report no pain, but still have problems using their jaws. View the diagram for additional signs and symptoms of TMD.

f you’re experiencing frequent headaches, back and neck pain, dull aching facial pain, or popping in your jaw you are not alone. Dawn had suffered from constant headaches her whole life. “My headaches never seemed to go away and I had to take aspirin every day just to mask the pain,” says Dawn. Another patient, Debbie also suffered from debilitating migraines. Even when one headache subsided, another would come unexpectedly. It hit her like a ton of bricks and she would be forced to stop all her plans, and wait. She visited her primary care doctor. She visited her neurologist. She tried numerous headache medications. But nothing worked for her. Then one day, she was visiting her dentist, Dr. Bill Costaras, of the Illinois Institute of Dental Sleep Medicine. He could tell she wasn’t feeling well and asked her if she had a headache. “I was so tired of my head hurting I wanted to cry,” says Deb. After a screening for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) and Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB), Dr. Costaras and Dr. Rod Willey started Deb down a path of answers and yes, relief from her headaches. Approximately 35 million people in the United States suffer from TMJ problems. While both men and women experience TMJ disorders, the majority of those seeking treatment are women in their 20’s and 30’s. Many believe stress or a busy lifestyle is to blame but do not realize that these symptoms are often related to their jaw muscles and their jaw joint known as the temporomandibular joint or TMJ. Your bite can be a factor in many types of pain or functional problems because of the inter-relationship of the overall muscle and skeletal system. What is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder? TMD is a condition involving the temporomandibular joint, bone and cartiledge resembling a ball-and-socket that sits right above your ear canal on either side of your head. When the joint slips out of position, pain can result, and TMD is characterized by clicking or popping of the jaw when you open or close your mouth, persistent headaches, and sometimes chronic pain. “I have many patients who come to me Page 22 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

Causes of TMJ Disorder The cause of TMD is not clear, but dentists believe that symptoms arise from problems with the muscles of the jaw or with the parts of the joint itself. Macrotrauma to the jaw, temporomandibular joint, or muscles of the head and neck such as from a heavy blow or whiplash are common causes of TMD. Other possible microtraumas include: • Grinding or clenching the teeth, which puts a lot of pressure on the TMJ • Tooth loss, misalignment of teeth • Dislocation of the soft cushion or disc between the ball and socket • Presence of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the TMJ • Stress, which can cause a person to tighten facial and jaw muscles or clench the teeth • Chewing gum excessively or biting your nails can inflame your temporomandibular joint and may cause TMD. Dental Treatment for TMD Until recently, most dentistry was based on the assumption that wherever your bite was naturally was the correct position. However, the natural bite may not be comfortable or functional for the patient. In fact, malocclusion, or a ‘bad’ bite can be involved in pain and/or dysfunction of various areas of the body, which seem to have nothing to do with dentistry. Comprehensive Dentistry objectively evaluates the complex relationship between the teeth, nerves, muscles and jaw joints. Dentists who are trained to treat TMD are able to establish a harmonious relationship between these factors, resulting in a jaw position that achieves optimal occlusion and increased function and comfort for the patient. Diagnosis & Treatment “Because other conditions can cause similar symptoms including a toothache, sinus problems, arthritis, or gum disease we will conduct a careful patient history and clinical examination to determine the cause of the patient’s symptoms,” explains Costaras. “We then examine the temporomandibular joints for pain or tenderness, listen for clicking, popping or grating sounds during jaw movement, look for limited motion or locking of the jaw while opening or closing the mouth, and examine bite and facial muscle function,” he continues. Diagnosis and treatment for TMD, utilizes advanced technologies such as Cone Beam Volumetric Tomography (a 3D Cat Scan of the head and neck with only 10% the radiation of a normal CT). “After finding the optimum true rest position for the jaw a custom made appliance called an orthotic is created to promote healing and maintain the new, corrected bite position,” says Costaras. “While the orthotic will temporarily stabilize the jaw, permanent stabilization may be necessary,” Costaras continues. Options may include wearing a long-term orthotic, providing orthodontic treatment, placing crowns or veneers on the affected teeth, or creating a neuromuscular denture.

Tempormandibular joint disorder can cause a myriad of other physical problems. To provide optimal care for the patient the dentist may work with a variety of other specialists including: neurologists, rheumatologists, physical therapists, chiropractors, and others. Dr. Bill Costaras has teamed up with Dr. Rod Willey of the Illinois Institute of Dental Sleep Medicine to provide comprehensive treatment for patients with TMD. To contact the Illinois Institute of Dental Sleep Medicine call 309-243-8980 or email them at info@illinoissleepdoc.com. For more information contact Rod Willey, DDS, D’ACSDD (General Dentist) at the Illinois Institute of Dental Sleep Medicine at 309-2438980 email at info@IllinoisSleepDoc.com. Or visit their website at IllinoisSleepDoc.com Sources: Jennifer Krahe, TMJ.org, WebMD

Signs & Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

• Headaches • Jaw Joint Pain • Clenching or Grinding • Sensitive Teeth • Facial Pain • Jaw Clicking • Ear Congestion • Limited Mouth Opening • Dizziness

• Chewing Difficulties • Loose Teeth • Postural Problems • Neck Pain • Ringing in Ears • Difficulty Swallowing • Tingling in Fingertips • Excessive Snoring • Sleep Apnea

February 2011 — Peoria — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 23

electromagnetic radiation

Our Cell Phone Protection Plan for Your Body and Brain By Michael Roizenm, M.D., and Mehmet Oz, M.D.

hat’s tougher than deciphering your wireless bill? Getting a grip on the debate about cell phones and cancer risk, and deciding whether to gulp the next time you order take-out or ring Mom at the mall. The fuss is all about electromagnetic radiation, which every cell phone emits. How much you absorb depends mainly on how long and how often you gab, how close the phone is to your body and how strong the signal is. (Ironically, the farther you are from a base station, the stronger the signal, because your phone uses more power to maintain the connection.) The radiation from cell phones is too weak to unravel your DNA the way a massive dose of X-rays or exposure to nuclear waste could. But hold your phone to your ear for 800 minutes a month—as most Americans do—and the rays penetrate 2 inches or more into your skull, where they may heat up brain tissue. If you carry your phone on your belt, radiation may penetrate bone marrow cells in your hip -a place where stem cells are produced—and unleash cell-damaging free radicals or cause other trouble. Or not. Several large studies say cell phones don’t cause cancer, but the case isn’t clear. Many studies were too short to detect slowgrowing cancers, if they were there. Some longer research hints at a different story. Swedish researchers who reviewed 18 cell phone studies linked long-term use (10 years or more) to a doubled risk of certain tumors and neuromas, though the danger remains very small. Australian researchers also found increased risk. Docs will know a lot more in 20 to 30 years, when a major long-term European study called COSMOS concludes, but that’s little help now. Since both of us often live on our cell phones, what we’re about to say isn’t easy: Don’t keep your phone glued to your ear or hip. Or to your kids’/grandkids’ ears or hips. Cell phone radiation may penetrate as much as 4 inches into the brain of a growing child, yet no studies have evaluated their safety for teens, kids or babies, says epidemiologist Devra Lee Davis, Ph.D., MPH, author of “Disconnect: The Truth About Cell Phone Radiation, What the Industry Has Done to Hide It, and How to Protect Your Family.” She

Page 24 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

and many others worry about the soaring use of cell phones among teens and younger kids. Nobody knows what’s happening. That’s one reason we’re taking a bettersafe-than-uh-oh-sorry stance for now. Plenty of goofball gadgets—“protective” baseball caps, pricey necklaces, wearable “phone shields”—claim to protect against cell-phone radiation. Skip ‘em and give these commonsense strategies a try: TXT instead. Any time you can make your point with a text message instead of a call, do it. It keeps the phone away from your brain. Of course, never text while driving or doing anything that requires your total attention. You know, like surgery. Hook up with a headset. Hands-free units keep the phone at a safer distance. Wireless ear gizmos emit less radiation than cell phones. Headsets or ear buds that use oldfashioned wires keep exposure even lower. Lowest of all: “air tube” systems that transmit the sound from phone to ear via a hollow tube. Cut calls short. The longer you talk, the more radiation. Other simple tips: Limit phone use when the signal is weak. Use the speaker function—radiation exposure drops by 75 percent at 2 inches. Move away from your cell phone when you’re not using it. Take it out of your pocket or off your belt whenever you’ll be at your desk or in one room at home for a while. When you get into the car, take it off and turn it off. Curb the kids. Because texting is even more popular with tweens and teens than Justin Bieber, kids often make fewer calls than adults. Give headsets to those who do dial, explain why and create phone-free hours (at dinner, before bed). Allow younger kids cell phone use as a safety tool only and show ‘em how to use the speaker. As for phone apps aimed at infants and toddlers? Don’t even think about it. The YOU Docs, Mehmet Oz and Mike Roizen, are authors of “YOU: On a Diet.” Want more? See “The Dr. Oz Show” on TV (check local listings). To submit questions, go to www.RealAge.com. (c) 2010 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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February 2011 — Peoria — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 25

effective parenting

Stress A Necessary Part of Life By Wisnu Meier, NCC, LPC

eing a parent can be a wonderfully rewarding experience that deepens the meaning of life. But we all know that parenting can be a very stressful task, especially in today’s world where life moves at lighting speed through a sluggish economy. Each day we hurry to get to work, shuttle our kids to school, attend various meetings, and back to shuffling the kids from one activity to another. By the time we get home, we barely have energy to prepare dinner, clean up, and help the kids with homework. Before the light is out, we may have to deal with some meltdowns, sibling spats, bedtime refusal, and perhaps an earache or two. Forget about having quality time with our spouse, we’ll be lucky to get a full six-hour sleep at night. In the mean time, the bills keep coming, work-related deadlines are looming, and the household chores are mounting. Stress is a part of and is necessary for life. We need a certain amount of stress to perform well and survive. However, too much or unmanaged stress is harmful. Being a parent increases the level of stress in life, putting parents more at risk for having the negative effects of stress such as health, emotional, and relational problems. Many parents drop their children off to counseling, expecting the counselor to fix their behavior issues without them being involved in Page 26 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

the process. The truth is, parents can improve children’s behavior if they learn to manage their own emotion and behavior when under stress. Here’s the reason: stress can interfere with a parent’s ability to stay calm and think clearly in the face of conflicts or crises, communicate effectively, problem solve creatively, empathize, express love in a healthy manner, and attune to their own needs. Often, parental stress leads to a tense, hostile, and unhealthy relationship with children (less loving, impatient, inconsistent with discipline methods, less involved, etc.) Children may respond by misbehaving (e.g. talking back, refusing to do what is asked, arguing, yelling, ignoring). It becomes a vicious cycle: parental stress may lead to ineffective parenting style, which then cause children to misbehave even more, which in turn adds to parental stress. As much as we would like to, we cannot eliminate stress. So what can parents do? Learn to pinpoint the source of stress Take time to pay attention to what causes stress in your life. We cannot manage, brainstorm for solutions, and learn new coping skills if we don’t know what we are dealing with. Some common sources of

stress are: financial concerns, job security/satisfaction, divorce, death of spouse, volatile or strained relationships with others (spouse, exspouse, children, step children, family/relatives, friends/coworkers), lack of support, having family members with mental or physical health problems, and having negative thinking patterns. Learn new skills through workshops, counseling, and reading books Once you identify the source of your stress, take action. It’s not a sign of weakness to admit that we don’t know it all. In fact, it is a sign of courage. It shows that we won’t settle as mere victims—we are willing to do what is necessary to take charge of our lives. Attend workshops or read books to gain new perspective and learn new skills. In addition, a counselor/mental health professional can help determine the best course to reduce and manage stress and find new, more effective ways to parenting children with emotional/behavioral issues or special needs, communicating with difficult people, developing conflictresolution skills, changing our negative internal dialogues, or changing the way we look at people and events. Some counselors offer a coaching program in parenting that doesn’t cost too much or take a lot of your time, so it is a good investment. Learn stress reduction techniques There is an abundant of resources on this subject, pick the ones that work for you, and practice them a lot. A counselor can also teach you some techniques in their sessions that you can practice under his/ her guidance. Some common techniques are: deep breathing/belly breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, mini mental vacation, guided imagery, meditation, and yoga.

Reach out, find support, and learn from others Chances are you are not the only parent who is struggling with too many responsibilities, having problems with parenting, and feeling overwhelmed. Just because other people don’t talk about them, doesn’t mean they are not struggling. Be the first to reach out. Initiate a support group or form a support network of your own by asking people if they would be willing to be put on your “people to call” list and offer yourself to be on their list. Observe how others manage their stress or adopt their effective parenting method. The more ideas we gather, the more tools we have at our disposal when needed. Take care of yourself You are the most important person in your children’s lives. Maintain your well-being so you can be there for them for as long as possible. Learn to take care of yourself by eating healthy meals (learn how to prepare them or where to get them if necessary), exercise regularly (exercise videos can be cheaper alternatives to gym membership), get enough sleep, nurture friendships, nurture your spirituality, and each day, do something enjoyable (e.g. gardening, taking a walk, attending to your hobby, reading, listening to music, taking a relaxing bath, playing with your pet, etc.). Remember, to be an effective parent, we must first learn to manage our stress. Get professional help if necessary. It’s the most loving thing we can do for our children. If you would like to learn some practical and effective parenting techniques as well as ways to manage your stress, please contact Chapin & Russell Associates at (309) 681-5850 to schedule an appointment with Wisnu Meier, NCC, LPC.

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exploring aging

Fight the Flu with Facebook Submitted by Lutheran Hillside Village

inter is here, but soon it will be on its way out the door. It’s time to start thinking about stocking up for next year’s cold and flu season. Now, that’s not to say Wal-Mart’s going to experience a run on Sudafed and bulk Kleenex next winter. In fact, the kind of supplies to guard against illness are, indeed, easier to find in the summer months when people are out and about. For seniors, some of the best guards against flu bugs are relationships. In 2004, the American Medical Association published a University of Pittsburgh study conducted by a doctor named Sheldon Cohen. Page 28 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

Dr. Cohen infected 276 volunteers with the common cold, and then compared their reaction to that virus with the complexity of their social network. What he found was, the more types of relationships a person has, the more likely they are to fight off a cold. The magic number of relationship types seems to be six; people with six or more types of social connections begin to exhibit measurable resistance to disease as a result. So take a minute to count the kinds of people you associate with in a given week. Can you include your parents? Children? Siblings? Ex-

tended family? Coworkers? Friends? Fellow churchgoers? Online acquaintances? Classmates? When you think about it, how many kinds of people do you touch each week? Each day? Did you come up short of the magic number? If so, don’t worry! The sun is shining, and summertime in Central Illinois holds all kinds of chances to get out and meet new people. Volunteering Giving back to the community has a really great side effect: you meet all kinds of new people. Don’t know how to get started? Check online with Feeding America to find a food bank in your area. Visit your local chapter of the Salvation Army, the Alzheimer’s Association, or the American Cancer Society. And of course, churches, schools and nursing homes are always glad to have an extra pair of hands. A great resource for volunteers is the Peoria Journal Star. Every Monday, the paper publishes a list of openings at organizations – hospitals, religious institutions, health care associations — who need some extra assistance. A recent survey of the site (which can be found at www. pjstar.com/volunteer) revealed more than 50 groups seeking volunteers in the Peoria area. That’s a lot of chances to lend a helping hand! Education When did you make the greatest number of friends? In school, of course. And here’s a secret—it’s even more fun when no one’s making you go. For example, do you know OLLI? The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute is an educational program offered through Bradley University. According to OLLI’s website, its participants “share a common goal: to remain vital and active in their late career and post-career lives.”

The program’s roster of classes is impressive, covering a broad range of subjects from life sciences (“A Visit to the World of Insects”) to the arts (“William Shakespeare: The Man, Myth, and Theatre Artist”) to health and wellness (“An Intro to Body Mapping”) to personal finance (“Wealth Planning in Retirement.”) OLLI classes are specially tailored to older adults who want to indulge their natural curiosity. And for those students who want to share their own treasure trove of knowledge, OLLI also facilitates study groups, which are more discussion-based, welcoming peers who want to share their knowledge on any number of topics. To enroll for the new season, to find pricing, or to browse OLLI’s extensive catalog, visit www.bradley.edu/continue/olli. Online As you may have heard, the fastest growing segment of Facebook users is made up of people over 60. And for good reasons: it’s a great place to reconnect with friends from the past and meet a whole world of new people. Plus, it’s a terrific place to stay up-to-date with family members both near and far. Facebook offers a place to share photos and videos of the grandkids, play games with friends, plan events, and talk — privately or publically — with a wide variety of individuals. If you’re nervous about giving the site a test drive, PC World published a great article on protecting your online privacy recently. You can check it out at this website: http://tinyurl.com/yervofg. Looking for an easy way to meet new people? There’s a whole community of new friends waiting at Lutheran Hillside Village, a senior living community located in Peoria. To learn more, call Ellyn Book at 309.689.9605, or visit online at www.LutheranHillsideVillage.org.

February 2011 — Peoria — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 29

mental exercise

Wake Up Your Brain By Dan Miller, Author of “48 Days to the Work You Love”

his concept comes from a story I read in the classic little book I Dare You. A professor once hit upon a great discovery while buttoning up his vest. Or rather, he hit upon the discovery because his vest wouldn’t button up. His little daughter had sewn up some of the buttonholes by mistake. His fingers were going along as usual in their most intricate operations of buttoning a button, when something happened. A button wouldn’t button. His fingers fumbled helplessly for a moment, then sent out a call for help. His mind woke up. The eyes looked down... a new idea was born, or rather a new understanding of an old idea. What the professor had discovered was that fingers can remember. You know how automatic things can become, riding a bicycle, using a keyboard, or even driving home from the office.

Then the professor began playing pranks on his classes, and he found that the answer was always the same. As long as they could keep on doing the things they had always done, their minds wouldn’t work. It was only when he figuratively sewed up their buttonholes, stole their notebooks, locked the doors, upset their routine, that any thinking was done. So he came to the great, and now generally accepted, conclusion that the mind of man is “an emergency organ.” That it relegates everything possible to automatic functions as long as it is able, and that it is only when the old order of things won’t work any longer that it gets on the job and starts working. Keeping things the same may be keeping you stupid. • Maybe that job loss is an opportunity for your brain to wake up and discover meaningful work rather than just a paycheck. • Maybe having the bank refuse your loan application will prompt your brain to come up with a better solution. • Maybe that flat tire will trigger a great invention that will make you a millionaire. • Maybe the warning about high blood pressure will wake you up to better health and richer relationships. So my advice is this: Sew up some buttonholes in your life this week. Drive a different route home from work. Read a book you would not normally read. Write your name with the hand opposite your normal dominance to see how it wakes up your brain. Take time to stop to help a stranded motorist. Volunteer to help on a community project. And welcome the unexpected “closed buttonholes” this week. You may be surprised at having your brain turn on. Who knows what creative ideas or solutions you may discover. For more information about Dan Miller and his other books, visit http://www.48days.com.

Page 30 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

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community news

For Heart Attack Victim’s

‘Time is Tissue’

Central Illinois Heart 777 Cardiac Network Partnership races the clock By Mary Hilbert

he decision between dialing 9-1-1 and driving oneself to the hospital can mean the difference between life and death for an individual experiencing the onset of a severe heart attack. Timing combined with quality treatment is everything. For this reason, OSF Saint Francis Medical Center works with 13 hospitals across Central Illinois through its Heart 777 program to ensure that no second is wasted from the moment emergency service is requested to the moment the patient reaches the operating table. Recognized as being in the nation’s top 10 percent for response and treatment time, the Central Illinois cardiac network partnership boasts a median time of 102 minutes for patients, exceeding the national goal of 120 minutes. “It cuts down minutes, upon minutes, upon minutes,” Dr. George Hevesy, Medical Director of the OSF Saint Francis Medical Center Emergency Department said of the Central Illinois cardiac network’s effectiveness, “Ambulance personnel are educated and paramedics are taught how to do EKG’s.” Not to be confused with OSF Saint Francis Heart Hospital’s 777 program, a series of standard procedures designed to cut response time for heart attack victims who have already arrived at the hospital, Heart 777 extends the mission of cutting time to a cooperated effort among network hospitals. When a patient with one of the Heart 777 network hospitals is determined to be experiencing a severe heart attack, the physician dials OSF Saint Francis Heart Hospital at its Heart 777 code. While the member hospital begins treatment on the patient, a helicopter or ambulance is prepared to transport the patient to OSF Saint Francis Heart Hospital, where the cardiology team awaits the patient’s arrival. The objective of both programs is to reduce overall “door-to balloon” time and emergency response time for heart attack victims by calling a team of medical professionals at various locations to immediate action once a patient is determined to be suffering from a serious heart attack. “Door- to- balloon time” refers to the period of time that passes from the moment a patient arrives at the hospital to the moment in which the patients artery is opened through insertion and inflation of a balloon in the hospital’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among Americans according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), with an estimated 785,000 Americans experiencing a new coronary attack in 2009. However it is not the only known contributor to heart attacks. Smoking, genetic history, high LDL cholesterol and lack of exercise are also significant factors that may lead to heart trouble later in life. Page 32 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

Despite this, modern technology and increasing public awareness on the importance of maintaining heart health are both improving chances of survival and quality of life following medical treatment. Before the benefits of modern technology and programs such as Heart 777, which ensure a more rapid emergency response to heart attack victims, vital time for performing treatment was lost. With this time went heart muscle. “Time is tissue,” Hevesy said. Where many heart attack victims would have previously become “cardiac cripples,” many now have a greater chance of leading productive lives following surgery, the director said. Knowing early warning signs of a heart attack and when to contact emergency professionals can play a key role in determining a patient’s chances of recovery.“There is usually chest pain, discomfort or pressure. The victim doesn’t feel quite right and usually knows that something is wrong,” Dr. Marco Barzallo, Interventional Cardiologist with OSF Saint Francis Heart Hospital and HeartCare Midwest said. Aside from chest and upper- body pain, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting are a few symptoms the American Heart Association identifies as common indicators of a heart attack taking place. During a heart attack, heart muscles begin to die due to sudden blockage of a coronary artery by a blood clot. By depriving the heart muscle of blood and oxygen, the clot injures the muscle of the life-sustaining organ, causing chest pain and a feeling of pressure in the victim. If the flow of blood to the muscle is not restored within 20 to 40 minutes of blockage, death of the tissue will begin to occur. “Once the muscle is lost, it’s lost,” Dr. Barzallo said. Heart muscle continues to deteriorate for several hours before the heart attack is considered complete. “Every single study shows that the faster you act, the better the outcome and better results there are overall in cardiac function,” Dr. Barzallo said. While not all heart complications are preventable, leading a healthy lifestyle in both diet and exercise is beneficial in reducing a patient’s chances of suffering a heart attack. Practicing a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, actively working-out at a level that is safe for you, quitting habits like smoking and treating preexisting conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol and obesity are all positive steps toward preventing the onset of a heart attack. For more information on OSF Saint Francis Medical Center’s cardiovascular services and to learn more about the Heart 777 program, visit http://www.osfsaintfrancis.org/HeartHospital.

vascular defects

Varicose and Spider Veins

Misconceptions and Facts Submitted by Kathryn S. Bohn, MD, Illinois Vein Specialists

aricose and Spider Veins are conditions that affect millions of people. In the past there were two available treatments for veins. For varicose veins, a procedure called Ligation and Stripping involving multiple incisions and a long recovery time was used. For spider veins, injection with saline was used which was painful and caused significant complications of discoloration and ulceration. Over the last eight years, both of these treatments have been replaced by state of the art procedures resulting in excellent results with little or no downtime. Varicose veins are treated with a laser treatment called EVLA (endovenous laser ablation) which closes the incompetent veins. Varicose veins are caused by breakage of valves in the veins. This leads to blood pooling in the lower leg veins and ultimately forming varicose veins. Spider veins can be due to valvular insufficiency and can be treated with sclerosing solutions with minimal side effects. Despite the fact that the current treatment methods of Varicose and Spider Veins have been available for the last eight years, there are still misconceptions associated with Varicose and Spider Veins. Varicose Veins are a hereditary problem. This is not a Myth. This is True. The single most common cause of varicose veins is hereditary. Varicose veins do run in family lines and a grandmother, mother and daughter may all have varicose veins. Varicose Veins are due to pregnancies. This is not a Myth. This is True. Pregnancies do lead to varicose veins for the following reason during pregnancies the pressure of the baby on the pelvic veins causes dilation of the veins leading to stretching of the valves. The valves lose the ability to close properly and this results in varicose veins. The essential element in the cause of varicose veins is valvular insufficiency. Blood normally flows from the feet up the legs through a series of valves which open and close as the muscles contract. When these valves become weakened and over stretched, not all of the blood goes through them. This leads to the formation of varicosities and spider veins. Support Stockings will make Varicose Veins go away. This is not True. Support stockings will symptomatically help to compress varicose veins and spider veins and try to do the work of valves that have failed. Support stockings are only a temporary measure. If the underlying problem is valvular insufficiency, once the support stockings are removed, the primary cause of varicose veins continues. Surgery is necessary to treat Varicose Veins. This is definitely a Myth. Prior to 2002, surgery was the only treatment for Varicose Veins. Now, surgery has been replaced by EVLA (endovenous laser ablation). Treatment is performed in an outpatient setting in the doctor’s office and the patient can drive themselves home and return to normal activities the following day. Varicose Veins will always recur. This is not true. In general, if varicose veins recur usually it is due to new malfunctioning valves. More

spider veins can grow during the course of a patient’s lifetime and these can be treated with sclerotherapy. Insurance doesn’t cover vein treatment. This is a yes and no answer. If veins have broken valves leading to varicose veins and spider veins, treatment is usually covered by Insurance Companies. If the patient has pain and has failed a trial of support stockings, most insurance companies will cover the procedure. Spider vein treatment is considered cosmetic and not covered by many Insurance Companies. A few will allow spider vein treatment but the criteria is very strict. One should confer with their doctor when undergoing treatment of spider veins. Only Women have Varicose Veins. This is a fallacy. Although the majority of patients with vein issues are women, approximately 25% to 30% of our patients are men. Varicose and Spider Vein Treatment is Strictly Cosmetic. This is a fallacy. Varicose veins and many spider veins, are due to valvular insufficiency as demonstrated by ultrasound duplex scanning. Symptoms may consist of pain, swelling, aching, cramping, itching, burning, and restless legs. These symptoms are not cosmetic and are actually due to a valvular defect, covered by insurance. For additional information call the Illinois Vein Specialists at 309-862-4000 or 866-NEW-VEIN and visit us at www.IVSveins.com. February 2011 — Peoria — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 33

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Page 34 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Peoria — February 2011

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