May Metro East Healthy Cells 2012

METRO EAST area Promoting Healthier Living in Your Community • Physical • Emotional

MAY 2012

FREE

HealthyCells www.healthycellsmagazine.com

TM

m a g a z i n e

• Nutritional

MED+PLUS One Stop For Pain Relief and Health & Wellness page 12

Alzheimer’s Diagnosis page 6

Stroke Awareness page 10 Soft Drinks and Their Effects on Your Healthy Smile page 19

Maryville Women’s Center • Routine & High Risk Obstetrics • Infertility • Female & Laser Surgery • Menopause • Urine Loss Treatment • In Office Tubal Ligation • In Office Uterine Ablation for Abnormal Bleeding

Accepting New Patients Call today to schedule an appointment

(618)288-2970 2016 Vadalabene Drive • Maryville, IL Please visit us at mymwc.org

Front Row: Tina Gingrich, MD, Kimberly Sanford, MD Back Row: Tammy Young, CNM, Diana Herrick, CNM, Lynn Billhartz, PA

YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR A CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY

High Blood Pressure?

About 76 million Americans struggle with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. It may be difficult to control, but without adequate treatment high blood pressure can cause health complications. Physicians in our area are conducting a clinical research study to evaluatean investigational combination of FDA-approved oral medicines intended to treat hypertension.

You may qualify if:

To see if you qualify, contact:

• you have been diagnosed with hypertension

Southern Illinois Clinical Research Centre

• can attend up to 15 visits over 16 weeks Qualified participants will receive at no cost: • all study-related medical evaluations, including an evaluation by a physician • all study-related exams, monitoring and medicine You may be compensated for your time and travel.

Health insurance is not necessary.

102 Springfield Court, OFallon, IL 62269 Email: sicrctr@sbcglobal.net

618-632-3006 or 618-632-3009

Space is limited!

NAC-MD-01 Version January 2012

letter from the owner

M

ay is the month we celebrate women in various ways. Women’s Health Week is May 13-19th. Mother’s Day falls at the start of this week. Spending time with our mothers is always special. This year, why not make it even more special by spending time doing something together and helping the community at the same time? One way you can do this is by volunteering your time at the Girls on the Run Annual 5K Race on May 12th. The event takes place near Soldier’s Memorial in downtown St. Louis. There will be many mother-daughter teams running in the race and they are looking for volunteers to help in many ways. It is a very positive program that is inspiring hundreds of young girls in our area all year long. Take a look at the article about Girls on the Run in this issue to learn more.

Another way to help the community while doing something for your health is to participate in The Karen Keller Golf Classic to benefit The American Diabetes Association on May 14 at Sunset Hills Country Club in Edwardsville. Read the heartwarming story about the woman who has been hosting this event for the last 17 years.

National High Blood Pressure Education Month is also in May. If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you may qualify for a research study at no cost to you. Medications, exams, and compensation for time and travel are included. For more information, see the ad from Southern Illinois Clinical Research Centre.

Lastly, May is National Stroke Awareness Month. Protect yourself and your family by knowing the warning signs of a stroke. Also, know what steps to take if you suspect you or a loved one may be having a stroke. The Rehabilitation Center at Anderson Hospital has a monthly Stroke Survivor Support Group. You can find information on this and so much more in this issue of Healthy Cells Magazine.

Here’s to Health and Happiness!

Christine Tyre, Owner Healthy Cells Magazine, Metro East

“Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to live a healthier life.”

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May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 3

MAY ISSUE

2012 Volume 1, Issue 4

5

Local Support: American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Troy

This Month’s Cover Story:

6

Emotional: Alzheimer’s Diagnosis Poses Challenges But May Reduce Overall Stress

One Stop For Pain Relief and Health & Wellness

8

Med+Plus

page 12

Nutritional: Maintain Healthy Vision

10

Physical: Stroke Awareness

15

Changing Lives: Karen Keller Brings Hope for Diabetics

16

Girls On The Run: Preparing Young Girls for a Lifetime of Self-Respect and Healthy Living

18

Back in Motion: Getting Hurt—When You Need More Than a Kiss From Mom

19

Dental Health: Soft Drinks and Their Effects On Your Healthy Smile

20

Home Health Care: Reducing the Risk of Re-Hospitalizations

21

Replacement Therapy: Are Your Hormones Driving You Crazy?

22

Body Contouring: Say Goodbye to Stubborn Fat!

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

23

May Is Women’s Health Month: Celebrate Mom’s Health This Mother’s Day!

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 the Metro East area.

24 26

Healthy Babies: Alcohol in Pregnancy—What Is the Big Deal?

Community News: Memorial Hospital Names Chief Operating Officer

Cover and cover story photos, courtesy of Roger Smith Portrait Gallery.

For advertising information, contact Christine Tyre, owner.

Cell: 618-741-7196 • Fax: 309-691-2187 chris@healthycellsmagazine.com Healthy Cells Magazine is a division of:

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 in high traffic locations throughout the Metro East area, including medical facilities and other waiting rooms. Healthy Cells Magazine welcomes contributions pertaining to healthier living in the Metro East area. Limelight Communications, Inc. assumes no responsibility for their publication or return. Solicitations for articles shall pertain to physical, emotional, and nutritional health only.

local support

American Cancer Society

Relay For Life of Troy Focuses on Birthdays and Saving Lives Faster Submitted by The American Cancer Society

F

or area residents battling cancer, “Happy Birthday” takes on a whole new meaning. Local volunteers will devote their time, talents and energy over the next several months to saving lives faster and creating a world with more birthdays as they prepare for this year’s American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Troy to be held on Friday, June 1st at Tri-Township Park.

Relay For Life is an overnight event that brings the community together in the fight against cancer to celebrate the lives of those who have cancer, remember those lost to the disease, and fight back against a disease that takes too much. Teams of local businesses, schools, churches, community groups and families raise funds – prior to and at the event – to support cancer research to help find cures and to provide local programs aimed at helping people stay well, get well and fight back.

Relay For Life of Troy starts with local cancer survivors uniting to walk the first lap of the event. They are then joined by family, friends and co-workers; the caregivers who helped them through their battle with cancer.

The Luminaria Ceremony will be held just after dark, to honor and remember loved ones. Honorees include survivors, caregivers and those who have lost their battle against the disease. Hundreds of luminaria will line the track and continue to burn throughout the night to remind participants of the incredible importance of their loves ones’ contributions. Luminarias are available by calling your local ACS office at 618-288-2320 or they can be purchased at the event.

American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Troy organizers hope to raise $100,000 at this year’s event.

On average, 183 Illinoisans are diagnosed with cancer every day. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related death in Illinois, followed by colorectal cancer.

Relay For Life helps fund the American Cancer Society’s efforts to advance cancer prevention, treatment, patient services and cures. This includes the Society’s Patient Navigation Services program, designed to fill a critical void in health care and social services by acting as a full-service navigator to anyone touched by cancer. The services provided by the American Cancer Society include: transportation assistance to treatments, discounted lodging at hotels for patients who need to travel to receive care, insurance coverage assistance, resource matching and referrals, and cosmetic help such as free wigs or headwear for patients who have lost their hair due to chemotherapy. The Society also

offers cancer information and access to support groups via its call center, accessible anytime at 800-227-2345, and at its website, www.IllinoisCancerHelp.org.

For more information on how to get involved in Relay For Life of Troy, contact the American Cancer Society at 618-288-2320 or visit www.relayforlife.org/troyil.

t EASE a d in M r u P ut Yo Provision Living, a senior independent, assisted living and memory care community, emphasizes warm, caring people and new friends in a radiant environment. Both of you will sleep better at night knowing you’ve made the right choice.

Call today to schedule a tour and experience the radiance!

Provision Living at Godfrey 1373 D’Adrian Professional Park Godfrey, IL 62035

618-468-8010

www.provisionliving.com May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 5

emotional

Alzheimer’s Diagnosis Poses Challenges But May Reduce Overall Stress Submitted by Provision Living

F

orgetfulness is something we learn to live with as a simple annoyance of everyday life. But in one’s 60’s and 70’s, the prominence of regular memory loss becomes an important signal for the potential onset of memory impairment, dementia, or Alzheimer’s.

A person suffering from dementia may not be able to properly rationalize the differences between events in their surroundings.

Mike Lalo, the Executive Director at Provision Living in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, notes that something as simple as a resident perceiving that a missing object was only missing once another person left the room can lead to an overwhelming sense that the object must have been taken by that person.

The magnification of such rationalizations mark the symptoms of dementia, and serve as a warning sign that a resident may be Page 6 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

in need of more focused care, according to Lalo, whose team attends to various early stages of memory impairment, and considers the process of recognizing the hints of a need for more care as vital to the overall role of providing optimal care for community residents.

News of an update to guidelines for diagnosing Alzheimer’s versus Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) provoked responses in the memory care community highlighting the potential for confusion in the diagnostic process. But some practitioners downplayed the risk for such confusion.

In order to assess the impact of a move toward revising the guidelines (developed by the National Institute on Aging and Alzheimer’s Association), we connected with Lori McKinnon, who supervises our memory care facility at Provision Living in Godfrey,

Ilinois. While McKinnon acknowledged the recommended updates to the guidelines require further investigation, she pointed out the positive impact that diagnostic procedures have in enabling earlier detection of memory impairment.

There are three primary considerations to keep in mind when handling the early stages of diagnosis, and the earlier the process can focus on these considerations, the better, according to McKinnon.

•M edication to treat memory impairment symptoms • B uilding routines that help day to day life • R educing stress by focusing on treatment as early as possible “Transitioning residents from an assisted living environment to a memory care facility helps reduce stress right away, which is important for the overall health of not just the resident, but family members and caregivers who might be trying to deal with the situation, but lack the tools and resources to do so,” explained McKinnon.

The day to day reality of living with the stress of memory impairment, be it Alzheimer’s, MCI, or dementia, may include constant worrying and confusion, ringing of hands, missing meals, and other issues that, taken as a whole, create a troubling situation, which seems to worsen with each day.

Early diagnosis, regardless of the category of memory impairment it falls in, serves as a starting point in departing from trying to make life work like normal and to entering a life of appropriate care. As soon as this process begins, stress starts to decrease.

“Within a couple of days of moving into a memory care facility, anxiety begins to lessen as professionals trained to support resi-

dents with memory impairment begin providing what is needed in terms of helping avoid confusion and build appropriate routines, and while the move can be troubling for family who feel some guilt and worry with making this decision for their loved one, those feelings tend to change quickly as they see the positive effects on their family member,” said McKinnon.

For more information, please contact Provision Living at 618-468-8010.

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Kristen M. Jacobs, MD SkinCare Specialist

2102 Vadalabene Dr. | Maryville, IL 62062 | 618-288-9117 | OohLaLaWellness.com May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 7

nutritional

Maintain Healthy Vision Submitted by Illinois Eye Surgeons

V

ision and eye health, as with all aspects of health, can be impacted by lifestyle. Healthy lifestyle principles, like eating right, limiting environmental toxins, and exercising, are important for eye health and play a role in how well or poorly your eyes age. For instance, obesity and diabetes are at epidemic proportions right now, and both can impact your eyesight. Similarly, if you smoke or spend a lot of time in front of the computer, this too can take a toll on your vision health.

Beyond basic lifestyle principles, there are some specific strategies to maintain healthy vision. One strategy is including certain nutrients in your diet. Certain ones stand out above the rest. I’ll discuss three of these that have been shown to be of particular benefit to your eyes.

Vitamin D: It’s becoming common knowledge that vitamin D is important for far more than bone health. In the last several years, a large amount of research has shown that higher levels of vitamin D are necessary to provide protection from serious chronic diseases such as

cancer, cardiovascular disease, infections, and multiple sclerosis. Low blood levels are even associated with increased mortality. Recently, researchers have revealed an important role of vitamin D in the aging of the eye.

A recent issue of the Archives of Ophthalmology (Apr 2011, vol. 129, no. 4) detailed new research done by the Institute of Ophthalmology at University College London. Their research revealed striking eye benefits from vitamin D3 supplementation in older mice.

The findings suggest vitamin D3 may very well help prevent agerelated macular degeneration (AMD), which is the most common cause of blindness in the elderly. AMD is associated with both amyloid beta accumulation and inflammation, and vitamin D3 supplementation appears to benefit both of these conditions.

This same article also showed separate research implicating vitamin D deficiency in the development of macular degeneration, with those whose vitamin D intake was among the top one-fifth of participants having a 59 percent lower risk of developing AMD compared to women whose intake was among the lowest fifth.

When supplementing with vitamin D, it is important to use vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and not the D2 form. Blood levels of vitamin D can be monitored by your physician.

Carotenoids: Mom was right…again! We’re all told, “Eat your carrots, they’re good for your eyes!” There is some truth to that because carrots contain carotenoids. Carotenoids are naturally occurring pigments, many of which are important for the eyes. Vitamin A, for example, is vital to your retina. Without it, you would simply go blind. Fortunately, vitamin A is readily available from your diet and is in high concentrations in … carrots! Carotenoids act as free radical scavengers and prevent oxidative damage. Of all the carotenoids (over 600 known to date), there are two in the body that are found only in retinal tissue. These are zeaxanthin and lutein. The retina has the highest concentrations of carotenoids compared to any tissue in your body. This is because your retina is in a light and oxygen rich environment. Many things oxidize in light and oxygen. Think about what happens to paint or metal (rust). The retina needs an effective arsenal of free radical scavengers to prevent oxidative damage. Your body concentrates zeaxanthin and lutein in your retina to perform this duty. The concentration of these two pigments in the macula of your retina is what gives it its characteristic darker color compared to the rest of the retina. The word macula literally means “spot.”

Zeaxanthin is the more effective oxygen scavenger of the two. Your eye preferentially concentrates zeaxanthin in the central macular retinal area (called the fovea), where the greatest amount of light is focused.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale, and also in egg yolks. It can also be found as an over-thecounter supplement.

Omega-3 Fatty acids: Several studies suggest omega-3 fatty acids may help protect eyes from dry eye syndrome and macular degeneration.

In a study of more than 32,000 women between the ages of 45 and 84, those with the highest ratio of (potentially harmful) omega-6 fatty acids to beneficial omega-3 fatty acids in their diet (15-to-1) had a significantly greater risk of dry eye syndrome, compared with the women with

Page 8 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

the lowest ratio (less than 4-to-1). The study also found that the women who ate at least two servings of tuna per week had significantly less risk of dry eye than women who ate one or fewer servings per week.

In a large European study published in 2008, participants who ate oily fish (an excellent source of DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids) at least once per week had half the risk of developing neovascular (“wet”) macular degeneration, compared with those who ate fish less than once per week.

In addition, a 2009 National Eye Institute (NEI) study that used data obtained from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) found participants who reported the highest level of omega-3 fatty acids in their diet were 30 percent less likely than their peers to develop macular degeneration during a 12-year period.

One of the best steps you can take to improve your diet is to eat more foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fewer foods that are high in omega-6 fatty acids.

The best food sources of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids are coldwater fish, which are high in both DHA and EPA. Examples include sardines, herring, salmon and tuna. Wild-caught varieties usually are better than “farmed” fish, which typically are subject to higher levels of pollutants and chemicals. If you aren’t a fish lover, another way to make sure your diet contains enough omega-3s it to take fish oil supplements. These are available in capsule and liquid form, and many varieties feature a “non-fishy” taste.

Being intentional about a healthy lifestyle and dietary choices can go a long way in protecting and preserving the precious gift of sight. Call 1-855-260-EYES or visit our website at www.illinoiseye.com for more information.

Dr. W. Eric Jones is a graduate of the University of MissouriSt. Louis, School of Optometry.

He also has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Illinois College where he graduated Magna Cum Laude.

He is currently involved in multiple FDA Phase III Clinical Trials that include both surgical and pharmaceutical research.

Dr. Jones serves in the Biomedical Service Corps of the United States Air Force Reserve as Chief of the Optometry section for the 932d Aerospace Medicine Squadron at Scott Air Force Base.

He is certified in Illinois and Missouri in the use of both diagnostic and therapeutic drugs for the diagnosis and treatment of medical eye conditions. Dr. Jones believes that prevention is the best way to maintain and observe excellent vision. He has dedicated his career to educating his patients on the best ways to prevent eye and vision conditions before they become problems.

Dr. Jones is an active member of the American Optometric Association (AOA), the Cornea and Contact Lens Section of the AOA, the Illinois Optometric Association (IOA), and the Southwestern Illinois Optometric Society (SWIOS).

Not feeling like yourself?

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May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 9

physical

Stroke Awareness Kathy Stephens, PT, Director, The Rehabilitation Center Anderson Hospital

M

ay is National Stroke Awareness Month. The National Stroke Association has published the following Stroke Facts: • Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the Unites States, killing 133,000 people.

• 795,000 people in the United States suffer a stroke each year.

• There are an estimated 7,000,000 stroke survivors in the United States over the age of 20.

• From 1998 to 2008, the death rate resulting from stroke fell approximately 35% and the number of deaths fell by 19%.

What is a Stroke?

A stroke is an accident to the brain that occurs when blood flow to the brain is cut off. Blood flow carries oxygen and nutrients to the Page 10 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

brain which keep the brain healthy and working well. When blood flow is absent, some of the brain tissue dies, resulting in loss of function. The longer the blood flow is cut off, the more damage to the brain will occur.

Types of Stroke An Ischemic Stroke is caused by clots that block arteries leading to or within the brain. The majority of all strokes are ischemic.

A Hemorrhagic Stroke is caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain. This type of stroke is less common, yet is responsible for more than 30% of stroke deaths.

Signs of a stroke may include • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.

• Sudden confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding • Sudden onset of visual disturbances in one or both eyes • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance and coordination • Sudden onset of a headache of unknown cause.

Stroke is an Emergency. The FAST Test can help you remember the warning signs of Stroke: F=Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

A=Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S=Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Does the speech sound slurred?

T=Time: If you observe any of the signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Stroke Prevention Some risk factors, such as increased age and family history of a stroke cannot be changed. Therefore, it is critical for everyone to do what they can to reduce their risk of having a stroke.

• Manage your Blood Pressure. High blood pressure is a major stroke risk factor if left untreated.

• Manage Diabetes. Take your medicine and make the lifestyle changes necessary to keep your blood sugars controlled.

• Identify Atrial Fibrillation. A-Fib is an abnormal heart beat that greatly increases the risk of a stroke. A doctor can diagnose and treat this condition.

•S top Smoking. Smoking doubles the risk of stroke.

• Manage your Cholesterol. High cholesterol can clog arteries and cause a stroke.

• Control Obesity. Manage diet and exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

Stroke Rehabilitation Rehabilitation settings include an in-patient rehabilitation facility, home bound therapy, home with out-patient therapy, therapy in a long term care facility or other community based programs.

Types of rehabilitation include: Physical Therapy to work on walking, balance, safety and endurance; Occupational Therapy to work on self care skills and other activities of daily living such as food preparation and housekeeping skills; and Speech Therapy to work on communication skills, cognition and swallowing.

There are millions of stroke survivors and caregivers who have had similar experiences in dealing with a stroke and the lifestyle and emotional changes associated with it. Support groups for the survivor and caregiver offer a chance to share stories, share feelings and feel connected to other people who have gone through similar events.

The Rehabilitation Center at Anderson Hospital hosts a monthly Stroke Survivor Support Group. For more information on the support group or inpatient rehabilitation, please call Kathy Stephens at 618-391-5230.

Your Passage to

Comfort

&C

are

www.passageshospice.com Toll-free (888) 741-8985 info@passageshospice.com May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 11

feature story

Med+Plus

One Stop For Pain Relief and Health & Wellness

By Christine Tyre

Dr. Walsh instructing a patient on DRS traction table, which is a machine developed by a neurosurgeon for various disc problems.

W

hen pain is present everyday, it can really impact one’s life. It affects physical activities, personal relationships, and the workplace. Pain can be all consuming completely taking over all thought processes. Residents of the Metro East area can turn to MED+PLUS to get relief from many types of pain and help improve all aspects of daily living. MED+PLUS is a multicare practice that includes physicians, physician assistants, chiropractors, physical therapists, and physical therapist assistants all under one roof for the convenience of their patients. Patients can receive medical evaluations and individualized treatments from a team of professionals that work together in one location.

Matthew Bretz, DC, is the owner of MED+PLUS and brings over 28 years of experience to the business. Brian Walsh, Jeff Schatz, and Jana Wuebbels are the other chiropractors in the practice.

Gregory Collins, MD; Matt Germann, PA; and Rhonda Pulver, PA, Page 12 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

are the medical providers. Stacy Mueller, PT; Jenni Kleeman, PTA; and Heather Woltering, PTA, round out the therapy side of the office. These professionals all work together to get their patients back to full functioning so that they can lead fulfilling, productive lives.

The primary focus of MED+PLUS’s practice is management of joint and muscle pain. Their practice is not traditional, as they use various methods to decrease and eliminate pain. The professionals there like to start conservatively so that they know what is working and what’s not. However, the treatment plans are very comprehensive involving many different methods tailored to each patient.

The focus is not to just mask pain with medications, but to help the body to reduce or eliminate pain with natural injections, fluid replacement, chiropractic care, and physical therapy treatments.

When a patient comes in to MED+PLUS, after being greeted by the friendly, upbeat staff, the next step will be to talk to one of

the medical professionals. A thorough evaluation will be performed including x-rays and an MRI if needed. X-rays can be done on the spot and can usually be read right away. This is a huge advantage for patients since they don’t need to go to another facility for x-rays and then wait for them to be read and sent back to their medical professionals.

A large part of MED+PLUS’s practice is treating osteoarthritic pain. The medical professionals receive referrals from orthopedic groups out of the St. Louis area with the goal being to prevent or prolong surgery. They have helped patients suffering from shoulder, back, knee and various other types of pain. Treatments are customized and unique for each individual patient.

What sets MED+PLUS apart from other offices is the individualized treatment plans. The staff meets twice a day to discuss each patient and decide the best way to treat each one. At these meetings, there may be a physician or physician assistant, a chiropractor, and a physical therapist collaborating for each patient’s best interest.

Knee Pain MED+PLUS takes pride in their treatment of knee pain. After the evaluation and x-rays, the staff gets to work on reducing the pain as quickly as possible. One of the treatments is Sarapin, a plant based homeopathic injection for the knee. Sarapin is an antiinflammatory medication which will start working to reduce pain and swelling around the knee. A second knee injection containing hyaluronic acid is then given which helps maintain the soft tissues of the knee. Hyaluronic acid is naturally found inside the knee joints, but the fluid decreases with the normal aging process.

MED+PLUS also offers two Medicare approved knee braces.

The first brace makes walking less painful by relieving pressure from the narrowed joint space. This is an unloader brace that helps stabilize the knee joint. The other brace is the BioniCare and this one helps to reproduce a normal and healthy knee joint. BioniCare is the only FDA approved device that is capable of rebuilding knee cartilage. Patients will also be able to avoid dependency on pain medication. Patients wear this brace during the day or at night when they are not active. In fact, Bionicare pads can be worn at bedtime so that the knee is repairing itself while the patient sleeps.

Best of all, the greatest benefit of the brace is that total knee replacement may be delayed for up to four years. Both of these braces are Medicare approved.

More Than Just Knee Pain Shoulder, SI joint, neck and back pain can also be relieved at the clinic. The staff will also try to find out the cause of pain by performing x-rays which can be done right in MED+PLUS’s office.

An MRI can be ordered if needed. The treatments may include injections of Sarapin and hyaluronic acid if needed. For back pain, spinal decompression can be performed. MED+PLUS also has a traction table that performs different actions for specific disc problems. This is a DRS machine which was developed by a neurosurgeon to prevent spinal surgery. Other conditions that can be treated are:

• • • • • • • • •

Ankle and foot pain Arthritis Whiplash Carpal tunnel syndrome Bone spurs Disc disorders Elbow pain Subluxation Fibromyalgia

• • • • • • • • •

Hamstring muscle injuries Jaw pain Hip pain Leg pain Pinched nerves Neuropathic pain Osteoporosis Pregnancy pain Scoliosis

Dr. Wuebbels performing a chiropractic adjustment on a child.

Physical Therapy MED+PLUS has a very experienced and professionally trained group of Physical Therapists and Physical Therapy Assistants to complement all treatments. The plans include stretching and various exercises to strengthen the joints and muscles affected. The therapists make the treatments fun and make sure patients understand how to perform all the exercises so that they can be done at home as well.

Headaches For patients suffering from headaches, an exam, x-rays, and possibly an MRI and or ultrasound will be performed. The staff will review the results and determine if a chiropractic adjustment is needed. Electric stimulation can also be used to help relieve headaches. The physical therapists have exercises that stretch three specific muscles in the neck to help with the pain. Dr. Walsh personally has suffered from headaches his entire life, so he understands how they can really adversely affect everyday activities such as work and personal life.

May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 13

feature story

continued dancing that could barely walk when they first come to see us, that’s what keeps me going. It’s so rewarding to see them give up their cane or walker, be active, AND be able to have fun again by doing what they love to do.”

Weight Loss/Nutrition Patients who want to eat healthier and make better food choices should see Dr. Wuebbels to get on the right track. She has a Nutritional/Weight Loss System that helps patients make positive lifestyle changes without being on a “traditional diet.” The program consists of a prescription appetite suppressant that is monitored by the medical providers at the office. Current research has shown the appetite suppressant to be non-addictive. There is also a vitamin injection available that contains numerous vitamins and antioxidants to help boost overall energy and burn body fat.

People who are dieting need support and Dr. Wuebbels offers this through weekly counseling. This includes nutritional advice, help with keeping a food diary, and the vitamin injections. Various programs are set up to fit individual patient goals depending on how much weight a patient needs to lose. For example, there are 6, 10, and 14 week programs available. There is even a program available for patients who need to lose 60 pounds or more that includes a product to jumpstart metabolism. Whether patients need to lose 10 pounds or 60 or more, there is a program to fit all needs.

A key goal of MED+PLUS is to return patients back to their normal everyday activities pain free. However, this is only one segment of the treatment plan. Regaining strength, endurance, and flexibility are also part of the plan. The entire professional staff travels across the United States monthly to some of the best continuing educational and informational seminars offered. MED+PLUS is available to bring top-notch quality pain relief and healthcare to the residents of the Metro East.

Whether your pain is due to an injury, arthritis, or overuse, MED+PLUS is your complete care facility. They are located in Maryville and can be reached at 618-288-5044 or in the Carlyle office at 618-594-3671. You can also visit their website at www.medplusplus.com.

Matt Germann, PA, administering a knee injection while Jenni Kleemann, PTA, performs a diagnostic ultrasound to visualize where the knee injection medication is going.

Dr. Bretz, the owner, has been partnering with medical providers since 1998. Traditional medicine and chiropractor care complement each other very well and greatly benefit the patients. One of the medical providers currently working with Dr. Bretz, Matt Germann, Physician Assistant, expressed how he helps patients live healthier lives and live with less pain or even pain free. Matt talked of several patients who come in using canes or walkers that have had to give up many of their daily physical activities. After a thorough evaluation, customized injections, chiropractic treatment, and physical therapy, patients can lead the life they want to live.

He explained that many patients in the Carlyle area love to go out dancing on the weekends. “When I see one of my patients out Page 14 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

Becky, patient advocate, is the friendly face who will greet you at MED+PLUS.

changing lives

Karen Keller Brings Hope for Diabetics Submitted by the American Diabetes Association

T

he Karen Keller Golf Classic is not just about golf; it is about changing the lives of those affected by diabetes.

Karen Keller is not sure if there will be a cure for the disease in her lifetime, but she is optimistic that there may be one someday, and that is what keeps her motivated.

“Obviously, it means a lot to me to find a cure,” said Keller, a Glen Carbon resident. “I have a personal interest.” Kellar has been diabetic for 45 years, having being diagnosed at the age of 15 with Type 1 diabetes.

But she says, this is not just about her; this is about all those who are living with diabetes and all those who will be diagnosed. “I think about my grandchildren,” she said.

For 17 years now, with the help of her friends and family, Keller has been hosting the golf event to raise money for the American Diabetes Association, a non-profit organization committed to finding a cure.

This year the tournament will be on Monday, May 14, at Sunset Hills Country Club in Edwardsville.

Keller said that players, dinner guests, sponsors, cash and auction donations and volunteers are always needed and welcome.

Keller, who is originally from Edwardsville and now lives in Glen Carbon, started hosting the event to raise money for the ADA. She was involved in the Madison County chapter’s fundraising committee and put in charge of hosting a golf tournament.

Keller admits she isn’t much of a golfer, but when she told her husband Dale, owner of Keller Construction, Inc. about it, he immediately started helping her.

He mailed letters to all his clients and friends informing them about the tournament and sharing her story.

“His suppliers, builders and even his competitors responded,” she said. “It was amazing.”

Keller said the tournament has now become a tradition. “It is a fun event, and the community has been supportive,” she said. “We have gotten a lot of fun things for the auction this year.”

Keller said she is thankful to all who have supported her over the years, especially her son, Adam. He was born six weeks premature because of her diabetes and has been by her side ever since.

“I am very lucky to have Adam,” she said. “He grew up taking care of me.” At the age of 3, he started helping her with her four insulin shots every day; shots that she took until she was 40, when she got on an insulin pump. “I hate needles,” she said. “He got used to doing it.”

Keller said in those days, blood sugar tests were not handy like today’s tests. Her friends and family would also have to deal with the complications of her having too much insulin or not enough, such as driving her to the hospital when needed.

Despite it all, Keller is hopeful for what the future will bring. “You have got to be positive because that is what keeps you going,” she said.

The American Diabetes Association describes diabetes as a serious disease with potentially life threatening complications such as kidney failure, blindness, stroke, heart disease and amputation.

Diabetes comes in different forms: • Type 1 - Formerly known as juvenile, usually diagnosed in children and young adults when their bodies does not produce insulin

Karen Keller with her grandchildren: (L-R) Kipton, 2; Carson, 12; and Addison, 5-1/2 •T ype 2 - Most common form of diabetes, occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or its cells ignore the insulin •G estational – Occurs when pregnant women, who have never had diabetes before, have high blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

The disease affects 25.6 million children and adults in the United States and 57 million more in the nation have the potential to develop Type 2 diabetes.

To learn more about the ADA, go to www.diabetes.org. For more information about the golf tournament or to register, call Rawnie Berry at the Gateway Area ADA office at 888-342-2383 ext. 6829 or e-mail her at rberry@diabetes.org.

Tournament Schedule 10:30 a.m. registration, check-in, driving range and practice greens 11 a.m. lunch 12:30 p.m. four-person scramble 5:30 p.m. cocktails, an auction, awards and dinner Fees $175 for an individual player or $700 for a foursome (Both include lunch and dinner) $40 dinner only A variety of sponsorship levels are available from $175 to $7,500.

May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 15

girls on the run

Preparing Young Girls for a Lifetime of

Self-Respect and Healthy Living

By Amy Sheridan, Program and Development Coordinator

E

very weekday afternoon for the past 10 weeks, there has been a buzz in the air from many area school playgrounds. The energy is coming from 2,600 young girls who are all part of a non-profit organization called Girls on the Run. Girls on the Run is an after-school program designed for girls in third through eighth grades, with a mission to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running and training for a 5k event. Our goal is to prepare young girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living during their critical years of development, ages 8-14. We offer two programs: Girls on the Run is for third to fifth grade girls and Girls on Track is for sixth to eighth grade girls.

Girls on the Run St. Louis is the third largest council in the United States and serves approximately 5,000 girls per year throughout the St. Louis Metro area, including nine counties in Illinois. What began in 2002 on a park bench with 20 girls has grown by leaps and bounds every season. Today, Girls on the Run St. Louis can

boast that it has served more than 10,000 girls in the past 10 years.

The program began expanding to reach girls in Metro East Illinois during the spring of 2008 and the growth has been amazing! We currently serve girls in most local communities including Belleville, Bethalto, Cahokia, Caseyville, Centralia, Collinsville, Dupo, East Alton, Edwardsville, Fairview Heights, Freeburg, Granite City, Highland, Marine, Maryville, Millstadt, O’Fallon, Shiloh, St. Jacob, Swansea, Trenton, Troy and Waterloo.

The curriculum is divided into three parts: Weeks 1-3 – All About Me – Getting to Know Who I am and What I Stand For; Weeks 4-7 – Building My Team – Understanding the Importance of Cooperation; Weeks 8-10 – Community Begins With Me – Learning About Community and Designing Our Own Community Service Project. The girls discuss such topics as standing up to peer pressure, the importance of a healthy body image, standing up for myself, celebrating gratitude, values, managing gossiping and bullying, and planning and executing a community service project….just to name a few!

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Page 16 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

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Girls On the Run 5K May 12th, Saturday, Downtown St. Louis near Soldiers Memorial.

Volunteers Needed!

Girls on the Run lessons are based on activities that function specifically to enhance the learning process. Each practice lasts for about 90 minutes and are led by volunteer coaches who have attended the Girls on the Run training program, have become CPR certified, and have been background checked. We currently have more than 850 volunteers who help to facilitate our program. We couldn’t “run” without them!

Each season culminates in a 5k race where every girl in the program from across the St. Louis region comes together to celebrate fitness, self-esteem and the rewards of their hard work. We want the girls to finish the race with the feeling that if they can run a 5k, they

can do anything! This season our 5k race has moved to downtown St. Louis for the first time. Mark your calendar and plan to join us on Saturday, May 12 near Soldier’s Memorial. The theme of our race this season is “Be Your Own Superhero” and the Honorary Race cochairs will be St. Louis Mayor, Francis Slay, and Jill Indovino, the founding director of Girls on the Run St. Louis.

Girls on the Run is developing the female leaders of tomorrow by empowering young girls today and teaching them to be the “boss of their own brains.” The girls complete the program with a stronger sense of identity, a greater acceptance of themselves, a healthier body image and an understanding of what it means to be part of a team.

For more information about our program, registering for the 5k race, or volunteer opportunities, visit www.girlsontherunstlouis.org or call 314-862-6266.

May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 17

back in motion

Getting Hurt When You Need More Than a Kiss From Mom Submitted by PRORehab, P.C.

I

njuries are very disruptive to our lives. They can limit our mobility and, subsequently, limit our ability to do the things that we like to do (exercise, recreational activities, sports) or have to do (work, make a living).

The Physical and Occupational therapists at PRORehab, P.C. understand how being injured can affect our well being, our quality of life and our ability to do the things we love to do. Therefore, they put their skills to the test each time a patient calls to schedule.

“Patients come prepared and they want answers. Economic demands dictate that patients get better faster,” states Mandy Carter, PT in Fairview Heights. “That’s why we approach our patients differently, from scheduling to actual treatments.”

“Take a patient with low back pain for example,” states Carter. “Years ago and even now, therapy treatments for this injury included rest, restricted activities, and modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, etc.”

The research and outcomes support otherwise however. “The research is fairly clear that passive treatments play only a small role in recovery for neck and back pain.” Carter goes on to state that evidence is supporting that manual treatments – mobilization and manipulation – combined with exercise and advice are effective treatments at low cost for patients and payers.

Not only does hands-on therapy benefit patients “physically” but mentally and emotionally as well. “This is why we succeed as an organization,” states Nate Wilson, PT in Alton. “A treatment plan provided by the same therapist at each visit does wonders for the patient. Not only can the therapist better assess the patient’s progress, they can push the patient harder and advance them more rapidly.” Wilson states he is a big advocate for hands-on treatment (manual therapy, ASTYM) followed up with a comprehensive exercise program. “It’s about empowering the patient. We treat the joint restriction, the soft tissue restriction, or whatever is contributing to the problem, then educate and teach patients how to move and how to exercise properly to address these underlying factors.” Wilson states that with reduced pain through hands-on manual treatments, patients are able to exercise sooner regaining flexibility and strength. “Research proves again and again that manual treatment in conjunction with exercise is the most effective treatment.”

Page 18 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

So where does that lead us? Chris Amick, PT and clinic director in Edwardsville, says it best: “Patients deserve the most advanced, the most up-to-date and the most evidence-based treatment by their medical providers. Competition is fierce and consumers are becoming, must become, more aware of their options.” His philosophy aligns directly with that of PRORehab, P.C. “We are here to get people back to life. It’s my job to make sure that the patient comes first.”

Physical therapists are the experts in the evaluation of movement and movement dysfunction. Visit www.prorehabpc.com to learn more on why an injury or surgery doesn’t mean that you can’t be ALWAYS IN MOTION. PRORehab, P.C. has three Illinois Clinics to serve you: Alton 618-208-3310, Edwardsville 618-307-3434, Fairview Heights 618-624-9300. We are also conveniently located in Downtown St. Louis as well.

dental health

Soft Drinks and Their Effects on Your Healthy Smile

By Ty Parker D.M.D., P.C.

E

ven though most people know that sodas are not only bad for our bodies, but also for our teeth, soft drinks remain one of the most popular beverages. Every year the United States consume over 9.27 billion cases of soda. This number doesn’t include energy drinks that are also very popular and extremely bad for you teeth as well.

The main reason that soda is so bad for your teeth and smile is that soda contains the two ingredients that are the main cause of every type of dental cavity, acid and sugar. Bacteria that live in everyone’s mouth cause cavities. Cavities, or tooth decay, are breaks in the hard tooth structure that weaken the tooth and lead to dental infections if not treated. In order for the bacteria to create a cavity, they need two things. The first is sugar from food. The second is acid to break down the enamel, the hard outer covering of the teeth. Soda provides these two components in high amounts. Every soda that you drink contains 5-6 teaspoons of sugar and is extremely acidic.

Soda’s Effects Over Time One of the main reasons that soda is so detrimental to teeth is the way that we drink it. If someone had to drink soda, the ideal way would be to drink it in one sitting and then drink water immediately after. When soda is drank in this way, your mouth’s acidity rises for a brief amount of time and then goes back to normal. This way the bacteria are only helped in producing cavities for 20-30 minutes. However, most people drink soda throughout the day in many short intervals over a long time.

When soda is drunk this way, your mouths acidity never get a chance to reach normal levels. When your mouth’s acidity is high all day, the bacteria get help from not only the high acid levels, but also the large amounts of sugar. When the oral bacteria are fed extra sugar in an acidic state, they are able to produce more acid themselves and create an environment that is very dangerous for your tooth structure.

Diet Soda and Juice Many people drink diet sodas in an attempt to avoid the calories that come from the high levels of sugar in regular sodas. Even though you’re not feeding your oral bacteria when you drink diet sodas, you are still contributing to the high acid levels that the bacteria thrive on.

Diet sodas contain just as much acid as their sugary counterparts.

Juices are much healthier to drink than sodas because they contain vitamins and minerals that your body needs. However, it is important to remember that many juices contain natural acids and sugars that are bad for your teeth. The good news is that many people drink juices in one sitting and then typically drink something else, like water. In situations like this, juice drinking is less harmful to your teeth. That being said, please be careful with small children using bottles or sippy cups.

They should not be allowed to have only juices during the day and definitely not be put to bed with juice. This can lead to baby bottle rot, where the child’s teeth get rotted from juices and are not savable in some instances. Water is best for children before sleep.

Energy drinks are just as bad for your teeth as soda because they contain just as much, if not more, sugar than sodas in most cases.

Because sodas and sugary beverages cause cavities, it is important for dental professionals to perform regular exams on their patients.

Most cavities form in between teeth in areas that cannot be seen with the naked eye. That is why dentists use various instruments and take cavity detecting x-rays on their patients’ teeth. These tools help dentists find and prevent cavities, keeping your smile healthy.

If it’s been a while since you’ve seen a dentist or you’re looking for a new dental provider, contact Dr. Parker and his team at Fountains Family Dentistry, 618-622-1800 or FountainsFamilyDentistry.com

Please call for your complimentary evaluation 7 Bronze Point South, Suite A Belleville, IL 62226 618-222-7032

2118 Vadalbene Drive Maryville, IL 62062 618-288-8920

May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 19

home health care

Reducing the Risk of Re-Hospitalizations Submitted by VNA-TIP HealthCare

H

ome health care is a wide set of health and social services provided in a patient’s home by licensed medical professionals and overseen by a physician. Home health care makes it possible for patients to remain at home rather than use residential, long-term, or institutional-based nursing facilities. Home health care aids people who are chronically ill, recovering from surgery or illness or disabled by providing medical, nursing, therapeutic and social treatment wherever they call home.

Home health care consists of intermittent visits to a patient’s home with the purpose of restoring and maintaining the patient’s level of function, health and independence. Home health care programs are designed to maximize recovery, allowing patients to achieve their highest level of functioning in their own home. Through comprehensive and individualized services, home health care providers work to improve the quality of their client’s lives everyday.

When seeking a home health care provider, look for a team of expert staff utilizing a plan of care tailored to the individual’s specific needs through a combination of services, including: skilled nursing, rehabilitation therapies, home infusion, speech therapies, pain management, medical social services and home health aid and other services.

In addition to general medical and social services, leading home health care providers use high-tech specialty services designed to work in coordination with the total care of the multi-disciplinary team, such as: • I nfusion Therapies – IV antibiotics and pain management medications, diuretic therapy, TPN, chemotherapy and hydration therapy are each available in the comfort of the patient’s home.

• Telehealth Monitoring – An in-home, wireless device that measures vital signs that allows your healthcare team to monitor your health on a daily basis, contributing significantly to a healthy lifestyle while assisting the patient with improved self care.

Page 20 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

• ZOE® Fluid Status Monitor - A non-invasive, FDA approved medical monitor designed to assist patients with fluid management needs. Research shows that ZOE® can detect fluid changes as early as 2 weeks prior to weight changes and/or other symptoms, allowing patients with diagnosis such as heart failure or hypertension to optimize medical and self care while improving function.

ZOE® can be used in conjunction with the teleheath device mentioned above.

•V italStim® Therapy System - An FDA approved, safe and effective treatment for patients suffering with difficulty swallowing. Patients can have a range in severity from mild difficulty to the complete inability to eat or drink anything by mouth. Combining VitalStim® with the traditional treatments allows clinicians to accelerate strengthening and help the brain remap the swallow function. Research has demonstrated that combining these therapies significantly enhances rehabilitation outcomes rather than using either one alone.

Reputable home health agencies should value patient independence and quality of life as top priorities. VNA-TIP HealthCare strives to provide excellent health care to patients and their families as the leading premier and complete one-stop patient care provider of in-home health services including: home care, hospice and private duty. With over 25 local and community-based branches located throughout Illinois and Missouri, VNA-TIP ranks as the bi-state’s largest, independent in-home health services provider. For more information about VNA-TIP HealthCare, visit vnatip.com or call 1-800-642-6099. Available 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days A Week.

replacement therapy

Are Your Hormones Driving You Crazy?

Submitted by GlenEd HealthMart Pharmacy & Maryville HealthMart Pharmacy

A

re hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, or mood swings keeping you from feeling like yourself? It could be hormonal imbalance.

When hormones are not balanced, it can affect the mind, body, and quality of life prompting many uncomfortable health issues.

Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, or BHRT, is a unique treatment for addressing hormonal imbalance. There are five hormones that are usually tested for BHRT needs. These hormone levels should be evaluated for deficiencies to determine which hormones should be replaced. One way to do this is through saliva testing. This is very simple to administer, is non-invasive, and is very effective in determining hormone levels in both women and men.

Typically, saliva testing looks at the following hormone levels: •E strogens – Estrogen hormones which include estrone, estradiol, and estriol all have over 400 functions in the body. Breast and endometrial tissue are stimulated in women while prostate tissue is stimulated for men. Estrogens also can have a protective effect on the heart, skin, thyroid, digestive system, and bone health.

•P rogesterone – This is frequently called the “feel good hormone.”

It helps balance out estrogen levels. Progesterone improves PMS symptoms such as mood swings, fatigue, and irritability.

•T estosterone – The hormone that is thought to increase sexual desire, improve muscle tone and strength, enhance skin health, energy, and mental health.

•D ehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) – DHEA improves immune system function and helps to decrease the incidence of many diseases associated with the aging process. It can also increase muscle strength and help with the quality of sleep.

• Cortisol – Known to be the energy hormone, cortisol helps with immune function and sugar metabolism.

After the results of the saliva testing, a consultation with a healthcare provider should be made. A qualified compounding pharmacist and MD, PA, or NP can create an individualized plan that can be designed to carefully balance the hormone levels. Each person has different levels and symptoms, so each treatment is customized. Topical creams, vaginal, sublingual, and oral are some of the dosage forms available.

When it comes to hormones, there is no “one size fits all.”

Don’t suffer from hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, or insomnia. For men, weight gain, fatigue, and low sex drive doesn’t have to be tolerated. Balancing hormones may just be the answer to feeling like yourself again!

To learn more about hormonal imbalance and bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, contact Glen-Ed HealthMart Pharmacy in Glen Carbon at 618-655-9898 or Maryville HealthMart Pharmacy in Maryville at 618-288-7474. You may also visit their websites at www.glenedrx.com or www.maryvillepharmacy.com.

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May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 21

body contouring

Say Goodbye to Stubborn Fat! Submitted by Ooh La La Spa, Anti-Aging and Wellness Center

I

t’s called stubborn fat for a reason. No matter how much you eat healthy and exercise, it’s virtually impossible to lose those annoying muffin tops and/or love handles as you get older.

In the past, you were left with two options: live with it or have surgery. However, now there is a cosmetic body contouring procedure called CoolSculpting that targets fat cells alone, eliminating them in an easy, non-intrusive fashion that exercise and diet can’t achieve as quickly or as effectively. What makes this body shaping method remarkable is how non-invasive it is compared to other cosmetic fat reduction procedures, such as liposuction.

There are no injections and there is minimal recovery time.

How It works: CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared, patented procedure that uses a targeted cooling process that kills the fat cells underneath the skin, literally freezing them to the point of elimination. Only fat cells are frozen. Your healthy skin cells remain, well, healthy. No knives. No suction hoses. No needles. No scars.

Once the fat cells are crystalized, they die and are naturally eliminated from your body through the liver. In a few months, say hello to a new you!

What to expect: Coolsculpting is administered in a medical office setting wherein the target area is marked and covered with a protective gel pad. Then, using a vacuum, the area is pressed between two cooling panels. There is some mild discomfort and often an immediate sensation of coldness, which goes away after ten minutes or so. For some patients, mild bruising or lingering redness might occur in the area that is isolated by the vacuums.

Page 22 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

Unlike a lot of other procedures, this takes very little time and is pretty simple to fit into your daily life. After your treatment you can typically get right back to your busy day. Each treatment lasts one hour, the same time you might spend at the gym, so you can easily fit your appointment into a lunch break.

Minimal Downtime and Lasting Results: After one visit, you’ll typically see a noticeable reduction of fat. It takes a few months to fully realize the effects, mainly because it takes that long for your body to naturally dispose of the fat cells. And yes, you can lose even more with additional appointments, if necessary. So after a few months, your clothes will fit better and you will look better. What’s more, there are no pills or supplements. And as long as you maintain your normal diet and exercise, your longterm results should remain stable.

It is important to note that this procedure is intended for cosmetic use, and is not covered by health insurance. Like other cosmetic procedures, it should never be a substitution for a healthy diet and exercise. Coolsculpting is an effective body contouring option and is a fantastic alternative to more invasive procedures, but it is certainly not for everybody.

To learn more about CoolSculpting or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact Ooh La La Spa, Anti-Aging and Wellness Center. Call 618-288-9117 today, visit us at 2102 Vadalabene Drive in Maryville, online at www.OohLaLaWellness.com, Facebook: facebook.com/OohLaLaCenter or Twitter: @OohLaLa_Spa.

may is women’s health month

Celebrate Mom’s Health This Mother’s Day! Submitted by Passage Hospice

W

hile you’re celebrating your mom this Mother’s Day, toast to her health! Flowers and candy might be more traditional gifts, but the gift of health is one your whole family can share.

May is Women’s Health Month, and the perfect time to make sure Mom’s running smoothly. In addition to regular checkups, women receiving Medicare can take advantage of preventative services like screening mammograms, bone mass measurements, pap tests and pelvic exams. These tests are covered by Medicare according to a benefit schedule.

For women over 65, some other tests are also recommended.

Screenings for diabetes, colorectal cancer and cholesterol can help catch problems in their early stages. These tests aren’t covered by Medicare, but may be covered by private insurance.

It’s especially important for Mom to take care of her heart. Heart disease is the number one cause of death among women over 55. If she has other risk factors like high blood pressure or cholesterol or a family history of heart disease, see a doctor regularly to monitor these conditions.

It’s possible to stay healthy as we age! The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has a few recommendations: • Take all your prescribed medicines and ask your doctor if a daily aspirin could help •G et a flu shot every year, and if you’re over 65, get a pneumonia shot • Get to a healthy weight and stay there by eating well and exercising regularly Even though our bodies are changing, we can still maintain healthy habits. Staying in touch with your doctor is a great place to start. Learn about all the benefits from your Medicare enrollment at www.medicare.gov.

For more information about staying healthy as you age, visit www.womenshealth.gov. Hospice care is also a Medicare benefit. For more information, please visit us online at www.passageshospice.com.

May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 23

healthy babies

Alcohol in

Pregnancy What is the Big Deal?

Submitted by Maryville Women’s Center

O

ver the last 40 years, we have changed our thoughts about alcohol consumption during pregnancy. In many cultures around the world, consuming the occasional glass of wine during pregnancy is still accepted. Studies in recent years have moved the medical community in the United States to recommend absolutely no alcohol during pregnancy, but why?

Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, birth defects, and is a leading cause of mental retardation. When mom drinks during pregnancy, the amount of alcohol in her blood reaches the fetus, as well. The fetal liver is not able to process alcohol like the adult liver.

The reality of alcohol consumption during pregnancy is that there is no exact volume known that can lead to birth defects.

Infants exposed to alcohol in the prenatal period can display what is known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). This term is used to describe the broad range of adverse effects of alcohol exposed infants. The fetus can manifest an array of birth defects that have been called fetal alcohol effects (FAE), alcohol-related birth defects (ARBD), fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), or they can be completely normal. The most common display of birth defects seen in this disorder are facial, mental and behavioral defects, and as previously mentioned, mental retardation in varying severity.

Pregnant women are typically highly motivated to modify their behavior to help their unborn child. In one national survey from the United States, the mean rate of pregnancy-related abstinence among users of alcohol was 74 percent.

The Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) reported that 12.2 percent of pregnant women used alcohol and 1.9 percent admitted to binge drinking during the month prior to being interviewed in 2005. By comparison, 54 percent of non-pregnant women of childbearing age (18 to 44 years of age) reported alcohol use, and 12 percent reported binge drinking. During 2001-2005, the following characteristics were associated with high rates of prenatal alcohol use: age between 35 and 44 years (17.7 percent), college graduate (14.4 percent), employed (13.7 percent) and unmarried (13.4 percent).

The Surgeon General of the United States and the Secretary of Health and Human Services recommend abstinence from alcohol for women planning pregnancy, at conception, and during pregnancy because a safe level of prenatal alcohol consumption has not been determined. Also in recent years, the national guidelines in several other countries including, but not limited to, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, and the United Kingdom, now recommend complete abstinence.

Page 24 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

Alcohol appears to have negative effects throughout pregnancy.

These effects include impaired growth problems, facial structural defects, and central nervous system abnormalities, neurological problems, and below normal cognitive performance.

Identification and counseling of women who use alcohol can decrease intake during pregnancy. Given that alcohol is known to cause serious birth defects and a safe level of intake during pregnancy has not been established, routine screening of all pregnant women is recommended to uncover any use of alcohol.

For pregnant women who consume alcohol but are not heavy drinkers, we recommend a brief intervention (e.g., educational session(s), motivational counseling) rather than no intervention or more extensive alcohol cessation programs. Women with heavy drinking patterns who are unlikely to reduce their consumption should be referred to professional alcohol treatment.

For more information, please contact Maryville Women’s Center at 618-288-2920.

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Benefit Amount This is the maximum amount of expenses

coverage will pay benefits for covered expenses.

Total Benefit Amount The total benefit amount is determined by multiplying the monthly benefit amount by the benefit period.

These are the funds that are available for covered care. For example, to determine a monthly benefit amount of $5,000 with a four-year benefit period, multiply $5,000 (benefit amount) x 48 months (the benefit period 4 x 12 months). The total amount of benefit dollars available is $240,000.

Inflation Protection This is an optional feature available on some plans. Generally it increases the monthly maximum to help ensure the policy keeps pace with the increasing costs of care.

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Knowing what the benefits of long-term care insurance might be, can help you determine whether it’s right for you and your family.

These benefits include: Giving you the flexibility to participate in deciding where

to get care and who provides it Helping protect your retirement savings by letting you use them

for what it was originally intended — enjoying retirement Helping protect the family from providing all the care

Talk with a financial advisor to evaluate appropriate strategies for yourself and your loved ones.

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May 2012 — Metro East Area — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 25

community news

Memorial Hospital Names Chief Operating Officer

F

ollowing a nationwide search, Mike McManus has been named chief operating officer (COO) for Memorial Hospital effective May 21. Prior to joining Memorial, McManus served as COO for Touchette Regional Hospital.

“We are very pleased to have Mike join our leadership team,” said Mark J. Turner, Memorial’s president and CEO. “He brings a great deal of healthcare experience to the table.”

The COO position at Memorial has been vacant since 2006 when Turner was named as Memorial’s president and chief executive office.

With the continued growth in Memorial’s patient volume, services and facilities, Memorial Hospital’s Board of Directors ap-

proved filling the COO position to assist Memorial in meeting its mission of providing exceptional healthcare and compassionate service.

“I am excited about the opportunities at Memorial and look forward to being a part of their commitment to the healthcare of the community,” McManus said.

A graduate of University of Missouri – Columbia, McManus is a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives and a member of the Illinois Hospital Association Board of Trustees.

For more information, contact Anne Thomure, Director Hospital and Community Relations at 618-257-5649 or athomure@memhosp.com.

Since 1917, VNA-TIP HealthCare has remained dedicated to total patient satisfaction as the leading local and complete one-stop provider of in-home health services including; HomeCare, Hospice and Private Duty.

Comprehensive Range of Services Include: Skilled Nursing Physical & Occupational Therapies Home Infusion Speech Therapy Medical Social Services Home Health Aid Spiritual & Bereavement Support Education & Community Support

Clinical Expertise in Assessment, Evaluation and Treatment Local and Specially Trained Nurses, Therapists, Social Workers and Chaplains Staff Availability- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Coordinated Care Tailored To the Individual Needs & Wishes of Each Patient Quality Services Designed To Maintain Patient Independence In Their Home

You have a choice in your home healthcare provider. To learn more about VNA-TIP, please call 800.642.6099 or visit vnatip.com

Page 26 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Metro East Area ­— May 2012

Here’s what happened...

My story may help you.

“I knew something wasn’t right. I had a little bloating and some lower back pain. But what really worried me was the bleeding between periods. It wasn’t normal for me.

It turned out I had ovarian and uterine cancers. Getting diagnosed and treated wasn’t easy. But now my doctor and I are optimistic about my future.

Please listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel normal for two weeks or longer, see your doctor.”

– Jennie M., Washington, D.C.

Gynecologic cancer includes cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. Signs and symptoms are not the same for everybody…so get the facts.

Get the Inside Knowledge. Get the facts about gynecologic cancer.

Get the Facts About Gynecologic Cancer

www.cdc.gov/cancer/knowledge 1-800-CDC-INFO

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