Maria Parham Healthbeat
A publication of Maria Parham Medical Center and The Daily Dispatch
Primary care physicians: Your partner in health and wellness
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ith all of the different medical specialties out there, there is one “specialist” that may be the key to a person’s overall good health – the primary care physician. Conventional thinking would say that a primary care physician is anything but a specialist, but not if you consider the specialty to be you. Every person needs to establish a relationship with a primary care physician and it is best to do it first when you are not sick; perhaps during an annual physical or wellness visit. A primary care physician (PCP) provides a “medical home” for the patient. A PCP looks at the entire person, not only the current medical need. By understanding the person’s medical history, current lifestyle, job and family dynamics, the PCP can work with the patient to develop a comprehensive and individualized healthcare plan. Because a primary care physician gets a chance to see a person over a period of time, he or she also gets to know what type of person you are, what your SEE HEALTH/PAGE 3
July 17, 2013
Hospital’s dialysis partner, DaVita, earns a first in quality Maria Parham Medical Center has a pledge it offers to its patients — Quality, Expertise and Commitment. With recognitions like being named the “5th Ranked North Carolina Hospital for Safety” by Consumer Reports (April, 2013), Maria Parham Medical Center (MPMC) has proven that it can meet and exceed its promise. This commitment to quality gets even stronger when one of MPMC’s healthcare partners Tariq Abo-Kamil become the very first to reach a quality goal — DaVita is the first and only Joint Commission-accredited provider of inpatient kidney care and apheresis therapies. This selective accreditation recognizes that MPMC’s kidney patients will receive superior quality care. Maria Parham’s Acute Care Dialysis Unit is staffed by two dialysis registered nurses from DaVita. The and is under the medical super vision of Tariq Abo-Kamil, M.D. Dr. Abo-Kamil is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and specializes in diseases of the kidneys as well as hypertension. Maria Parham Medical Center’s Inpatient Dialysis Unit allows patients in our region to stay closer to home when they need admission to a hospital for care. Previously, dialysis inpatients had to be transferred to hospitals, typically to Durham or Wake County. Maria Parham’s Acute Care Dialysis Unit has the capability of going to patients in their room if they are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or the Progressive Care Unit (PCU). Patients on the other nursing units will typically be dialyzed in the Dialysis Unit located on the third floor. SEE DAVITA/PAGE 2
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DAVITA FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Any patient requiring inpatient dialysis will be refer red to Dr. Abo-Kamil and he will consult with the patient’s admitting physician to create a plan of care. Dr. Abo-Kamil is also available for follow-up with the patient as needed after the patient leaves the hospital and he can see new patients in his office in the J.W. Jenkins Building. Cindy Faulkner, Chief Nursing Officer at Maria Parham states, “Maria Parham is ver y pleased to of fer inpatient dialysis for the patients of our community. Thanks to an arrangement with DaVita, our local outpatient dialysis provider, we have two highly qualified Registered Nurses who provided the highest quality care to our patients needing inpatient dialysis treatment.” The Acute Care Dialysis Unit
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
can provide dialysis care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The unit currently provides hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. In hemodialysis, the patient’s blood is filtered and the cleansed blood is then returned via the circuit back to the body. In peritoneal dialysis, a sterile solution containing glucose is pumped into the abdominal body where it is left there for a period of time to absorb waste products, and then it is drained out through the tube and discarded. The team also provides other ser vices for dialysis patients such as catheter access and they will see patients in the Emergency Department as needed. Bob Singletar y, CEO adds, “An impor tant par t of our mission in delivering the highest quality healthcare is to constantly assess what ser vices are needed in our community. We feel that the addition of inpatient dialysis addresses a growing need for our region.”
Dr. AboKamil (left) is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and specializes in diseases of the kidneys as well as hypertension. Maria Parham Medical Center’s Inpatient Dialysis Unit allows patients in our region to stay closer to home when they need admission to a hospital for care.
Beckford Medical Centers J.E. Kenny, MD F.C. Aniekwensi, MD S.E. Reed, PA-C W.M. Davis, PA-C L.A. Tharrington, MSN, ANP-C Elsa Bagnulo, NP
Henderson, NC 27536 Phone: 252-492-2161 Warrenton, NC 27589 Phone: 252-257-6213 Louisburg, NC 27549 Phone: 919-340-0283
Family Healthcare that works with you.
Maria Parham Primary Care is pleased to be the new physician practice of Dr. Kirit Trivedi, a family physician who has spent many years offering excellent primary care to the people of this community. Dr. Trivedi continues to offer comprehensive healthcare to people of all ages and genders. New pateints are welcome. 'U 7ULYHGL¶V RI¿ FH +RXUV DUH 7XHVGD\ WKURXJK Thursday from 8:00am to 5:00pm. The practice is closed for lunch from 12:30pm until 1:30pm.
J.W. Jenkins Bulidng
(252) 438-7102
Kirit Trivedi, MD
568 Ruin Creek Rd Suite 003 Henderson, NC
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HEALTH
PCP is generally less expensive than going to an emergency room or even an urgent care. FROM THE FRONT PAGE If insured, a person beliefs are when it comes typically only has to pay a co-pay to see their to taking medicine PCP. And if uninsured, and even what type of many PCP’s offer a support structure that reduced fee for those you have surrounding who choose to pay for you on a daily basis. For example, you may a their visit upfront (be sure to check with your person who has a hard PCP’s office staff first). time remembering to Another way your PCP take your medications. So your PCP may be able can save you money to prescribe a drug that is working with you can be taken once daily to find less expensive as opposed to four times options for things like a day. Or your PCP may prescriptions or therapy ask an elderly person’s visits. family member to stop “Wellness� is a term by to make sure that that you may hear your they have taken their PCP use more and more medication. in today’s healthcare Of course, the most environment. Common common reason a sense tells most of us person goes to see their that eating healthy, doctor is because they exercising and taking are sick or injured. A advantage of preventive PCP is trained to treat a wellness visits keep us wide array of illnesses healthier; but for some and injuries and if your reason our population condition requires continues to gain the skills of a medical weight, eat poorly and specialist, your PCP ignore opportunities for can refer you to the preventive care. Health appropriate doctor. If insurance companies are referred, your PCP will now highly encouraging communicate with the their customers to adopt specialist before and a healthier lifestyle, often after your visit(s) and providing discounts will keep any needed on monthly premiums health information in and agreeing to pay for your chart for future additional wellness visits. reference. Remember, primary Another important care providers specialize benefit to using a PCP in a healthier you. is cost. Going to see a
For Callll For 943 West Andrews Ave. Ca let letee mp mp Co Co 252-438-2573 le dule hedu Sc Sche Mon. - Sat. 7:00am -7:45pm
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Dealing with allergies to cats and dogs
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ets are great. allergens, but the They are good allergic proteins are companions, they also found in the hair, help you relax and they saliva and even the even help lower your urine. A ver y allergic blood pressure. But person may get hives some people when a cat or are allergic dog licks or Cats cause to their pets. his much worse scratches Cats and dogs skin. allergies than can cause Cats cause dogs. A sneezing, much worse water y person with a allergies than eyes and A person cat allergy is dogs. occasionally with a cat apt to break allergy is apt asthma. out with These to break out symptoms can symptoms with symptoms be stopped by immediately immediately removing the when a cat when a cat pet from the enters the household, but enters the room. Asthma it is so hard to room. is brought on part with the so easily in adorable little family sensitized people that member. it has been called “cat It is mainly the asthma.� dander, or skin cells, Dogs are much less that contain the likely to cause serious
problems, but they do cause mild symptoms in many people. Many people think that getting a dog that does not shed or has short hair will not cause allergies. These dogs are less likely to cause troublesome allergies, but they still cause some — skin cells are constantly lost whether or not the dog sheds hair. Since dog allergies are a much smaller problem, when a person appears to have allergies to a dog, complete testing is worthwhile to look for other causes, such as
house dust or molds, which may actually be easier to treat than getting rid of the pet. When a person has a sensitivity to dogs or cats, one should keep the pets outdoors or at least limit the amount of time the animals spend in the house. It is also helpful to give the pet a bath once a week. Talk to your child’s physician about any concerns about you may have about their health. For a listing of physicians in the area, go to the Maria Parham Medical Center website at mariaparham.com.
HENDERSON FAMILY DENTISTRY
Comprehensive Dentistry for the Whole Family
S-T-R-E-T-C-H
Hushang Ghodrat, DDS • Chris Claypoole, DDS
your Retirement Dollars!
Latest in Dental Diagnostic Technology Digital X-Rays • Intraoral Camera Laser Cavity Detection
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• Preventative & Restorative Care • Root Canals & Extractions • Gum Disease Therapy • Crowns & Bridges
• Partials & Dentures
• Tooth-Colored Fillings • Teeth Whitening • Implants
We Accept Most Insurance NC Health Choice • Medicaid Insurance Filed
New Patients and Emergencies are Welcome.
Call 252-430-1267!
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Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm Some Saturdays 560 Dabney Drive, Suite C • Henderson, NC 27536
Phone: 252-492-6004 • Fax: 252-492-9517
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Taking care of diabetic feet
ew things are more important in diabetes than taking care of the feet. The feet are a source of complications and infections, sometimes lifethreatening ones. Diabetes causes problems for the feet in two ways. The circulation is impaired and the sensation to the feet can be decreased or lost. An ulcer, blister, or burn can occur without causing pain, and by the time the infection is discovered, it can be very serious. To prevent problems, a person should wash his or her feet daily and inspect
them for blisters, sores, or other problems. The skin should be dried carefully and the toenails cut straight across. If corns or calluses need to be trimmed, it is best to have it done by a doctor, podiatrist, or nurse. One should wear comfortable stockings and properly fitting shoes. Each day, check the shoes for any pebbles, protruding nails, or other intrusions which may cause pressure on the foot. If the feet feel cold, it is best to wear more stockings and clothes rather than try to warm them by a heater or in hot water. Burns can occur
without causing pain and will take weeks to heal. A person must avoid harmful practices, such as smoking, which will further damage the circulation and delay healing. Do not wear constricting or seamed stockings, or footwear which may cause excessive rubbing or pressure, such as sandals or high-heeled shoes. Walking barefoot may be even worse. Stepping on slivers or other sharp objects is sure to cause an infection. Do not even walk barefoot inside the house — carpets hide many hazards.
To prevent problems, a person suffering diabetes should wash his or her feet daily and inspect them for blisters, sores or other problems.
A NEW NAME WITH THE SAME GREAT SERVICE AND LOCATION!
New Patients Welcome. Call for Appointment Formerly Range of Motion
Josep V. Feliú, CP, CPed
Offering local, individualized Prosthetic & Pedorthic Care
Ph 252.430.8778 • Fax 252.430.8770 1302 Dabney Dr., Henderson, NC 27536 josep@ncppo.net Accepting most insurances Prosthetic home visits available No charge for an office visit
Providing: • Custom Upper And Lower Limb Prosthetic Devices • Replacement Prosthetic Components • Custom Foot Orthotics • Diabetic Shoes • Follow-up Visits • Ottobock C-Leg and Harmony system certified
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Poison Ivy — The outdoorsman’s menace
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ith summer picnicking, fishing and other outdoor activities, there is a good chance of coming in contact with poison ivy. Everyone knows it has three leaves, but few people can readily identify the plant. In fact, most people who get the rash had not seen the plant. Yet with only a few exceptions, a person must come in contact with the plant to develop the rash. The rash, consisting of blisters and red, itchy skin, often occurs in streaks because of grazing against the plant. The damage is caused by a resin in the plant’s sap which binds with the skin and causes an allergic reaction. It only takes a couple minutes for the binding to occur. After that it does not spread. The rash shows up about two days later and may last for 1-3 weeks. The fluid in the blisters does not cause the rash to spread. The rash may appear to be spreading because it will
break out later on thicker skin or on areas that got a lighter dose of the resin. Sometimes, there is a second exposure that makes it appear to be spreading. Also, recurrent exposures can come from tools or clothes that have been contaminated with the resin or from the fur of pets. If you know you have come in contact with the plant, it may help to wash with soap immediately, but once the rash appears, all you can do is treat the symptoms. Potent steroid creams can decrease the redness and discomfort and help resolve the eruption more quickly. It is also helpful to use calamine lotion with menthol and phenol, antihistamines for itching, and soaking in water or Burow’s solution to soothe the skin. In more severe cases, cortisones can be taken by mouth or by shots to decrease the allergic reaction to the poison ivy.
Lending you a helping hand throughout life’s journey.
Committed to Your Orthopaedic Needs
Comprehensive Orthopaedic Care
John J. Faulkner, MD
Gary A. Smith, MD
Patricia A. Smith, MD
Four County Primary Care is committed to providing high quality, compassionate, comprehensive and cost-effective health care to all members of your family, from newborn to seniors. The FCPC team recognizes the importance of open communication, trust and respect between our patients and their physician, and encourage the development of a relationship that promotes your active participation in your health care decisions. 0HGLFDO 2I¿ FH 3OD]D
(252) 436-0440
Sports Medicine Arthroscopic Surgery Orthopaedic Surgery +LSV .QHHV Shoulder Injuries Neck & Lower Back +DQG :ULVW ,QMXULHV X-Ray & Rehab Facilities on Site Work Injuries We Treat People of All Ages Fractures, Sprains & Strains
Rafael Negron, MD, FAAOS %RDUG &HUWL¿ HG 2UWKRSDHGLF 6XUJHRQ
Steven Neunkirchner, OPA-C
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120 Charles Rollins Rd Suite 102 Henderson, NC
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Mon-Thurs: 7:30am - 7:00pm, Friday: 8:30am-5:00pm
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(252) 436-1314
120 Charles Rollins Rd Suite 205 Henderson, NC
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Tallying the benefits of breastfeeding W
omen are learning of many benefits of breast feeding, not only for their baby, but also the psychological and emotional benefits to themselves. The bonding between a mother and her baby is enhanced by the frequent interaction of breast feeding. Breast milk is the natural food for infants. Babies receive the required nutrients in appropriate concentrations as well as antibodies from the mother which help prevent infections. Breast fed infants tend to have less colic and less gas, and they may swallow less air. Because the infant is not exposed to the allergenic proteins of new foods at a time when he is most susceptible to them, fewer food allergies may develop. Breast fed babies have been found Most women develop an improved sense of well-being and self-worth from breast feeding. to have fewer ear infections than
bottle-fed babies. Many women breast feed until about 4-6 months when infants often start solid foods. By then the baby may also be getting teeth. There are few obstacles to breast feeding that can not easily be overcome. A woman may worry that she will not have enough milk for her baby, but the amount of milk will increase along with the demand. If problems do develop, it is easy to get helpful information from your doctor or obstetrical nurses at your hospital. Most women develop an improved sense of well-being and self-worth from breast feeding. Many women also find it easier to return to their normal weight after the delivery if they breast feed. This alone can be a tremendous psychological boost for a woman. Maria Parham Medical Center
Tariq Abo-Kamil, MD
practice that provides consultative and operative services in the areas of General, Advanced Laparoscopic, Breast and OncologyUHODWHG 6XUJHU\ (DFK RI WKH VXUJHRQV LV %RDUG &HUWLÂż HG ZLWK advanced training in various specialty areas. Each doctor is dedicated to providing you the very highest level of quality healthcare.
Internal Medicine
Lucy Wessinger, NP
This Practice is a Department of Maria Parham Medical Center.
The medical center’s next Childbirth Class is Saturday, July 27, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. This is the Weekend Intensive Class. The cost of the class is $50. This class is for mothers close to or in their 3rd trimester. The next Lamaze Series will be offered starting on Monday, August 5. These classes consist of a series of five classes, one being breastfeeding class, every Monday night from 6:30-9 p.m. The next Breastfeeding Class is Monday, July 29. This class is free for any mother and/or support persons. Class size is limited, so sign up today! Call (252) 436-1881 to register or (252) 436-1414 for more info.
Northern Carolina Surgical Associates is a general surgical
Maria Parham Nephrology & Hypertension offers specialized care for outpatients and inpatients who have renal disease and/or hypertension. Offering diagnosis & treatment For those suffering from: &KURQLF .LGQH\ 'LVHDVH Anemia Metabolic Bone Disease &RQJHQLWDO .LGQH\ 'LVHDVH Generalized Edema 5HVLVWDQW +\SHUWHQVLRQ Consultation for Inpatient Dialysis
BREASTFEEDING AND CHILDBIRTH CLASSES OFFEREDÂ
General & Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery
Specializing in Diseases of the Kidney & Hypertension
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offers breastfeeding support. Call (252) 436-1414 for more information. Â
J. W. Jenkins Building 568 Ruin Creek Road Suite 006 Henderson, NC
(252) 436-1080
Robert F. Noel, Jr., MD
Cynthia Robinson, MD
Northern Carolina
This Practice is a Department of Maria Parham Medical Center.
Surgical Associates
Lakshmi Kanth, MD
0HGLFDO 2IÂż FH 3OD]D 120 Charles Rollins Rd Suite 206 Henderson, NC
(252) 433-0430
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
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Combating heart disease
ow do you fight against the risk Exercise lowers the blood pressure, of having a heart attack? There makes the heart more efficient, is a tremendous amount you can lowers the cholesterol and helps you do to decrease your risk of the most lose weight. common cause of death, and you can Finally, recognizing a heart start at any age. attack early is of major importance. You can fight all three of the major Medicines can dissolve the clot that risk factors for heart attacks. You can is obstructing circulation to the treat hypertension, you heart muscle, but only can stop smoking, and you For more if they are given within can lower your cholesterol information on 5-6 hours of the onset of with diet, exercise and combating heart symptoms. This means that medicines. you must be aware of the Also, taking one aspirin disease, visit the signs and symptoms of a a day makes the blood less American Heart heart attack: chest pain, likely to clot and close off shortness of breath, nausea Associations the arteries that feed the and a sweaty feeling. Even website — heart. By using aspirin to an increase or change in heart.org or ask angina that has been stable prevent these small clots, your family nearly half of all heart can indicate the early attacks can be prevented. development of a clot. See physician for If you have your doctor promptly if help. hypertension, beta these symptoms occur. blockers may be a good For more information choice of medicine. They decrease on combating heart disease, visit the the chance of having a first heart American Heart Associations website attack as well as subsequent heart — heart.org or ask your family attacks. physician for help. For a listing of the Diabetes is a significant factor in primar y care physicians in the area, heart disease. Diagnosing it early and please visit mariaparham.com or call controlling the blood sugar carefully (252) 438-MPMC to find a physicians is ver y important. in the area who utilize Maria Parham Exercise is ver y important. Medical Center.
Be aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack: chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea and a sweaty feeling. See your doctor promptly if these symptoms occur.
Located (Near movie theatre) 895 South Beckford Drive, Henerson, NC Is now accepting new patients call for an appointment
252-492-8080 Dr. Foulkes and Dr. Mohamed
Monday & Thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
ADULTS & CHILDREN ARE WELCOMED
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
(Adult and Children Medicaid Accepted)
Providing Services To Our Communities For Over 39 Years
125 Charles Rollins Rd. • Henderson, NC 27536 Telephone: (252) 492-5831 Fax: (252) 492-3613 www.gvdhd.org
OFFICE HOURS
General Dentistry, D.D.S. Graduates of UNC Chapel Hill
Tuesday 9:00 AM- 8:00 PM Friday & Saturday 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Services: Root canal (adults and kids), Extraction (adults and kids), Bridges, Dentures, Cleanings (adults and kids), Partials, Fillings (adults and kids), Stainless steel crowns for kids.
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
The summer heat can be deadly
BY MATTHEW BITNER, M.D. MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY SERVICES MARIA PARHAM MEDICAL CENTER
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id you know that extreme heat is responsible for more deaths during a typical year than are hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods and earthquakes combined? The summer season’s warm sunshine can boost your spirits and even soothe your aching body, but be careful — too much summer heat can be dangerous. As the temperature soars, you need to practice hydration and moderation. The summer heat is especially dangerous to older adults who are at a greater risk for suffering from dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
As you age, your body weight is made up of less fluid, which makes you more susceptible to dehydration or other heat-related conditions. Certain medications, excess weight and chronic illnesses like heart disease and high blood pressure make you vulnerable to the heat, too, as can alcohol consumption. Dr. Matt Bitner, Medical Director at Maria Parham’s Emergency Department comments, “Extreme heat can be very dangerous to your health. Most cases of heat stroke and severe dehydration that end up in the emergency department could have been prevented.” He adds, “If you must work in the extreme heat, be sure to stay hydrated,
drinking plenty of water both prior to being in the sun, as well as while you work. Additionally, make sure that you take frequent breaks and rest away from the direct sunlight throughout the day.” Dehydration occurs when your body loses more water than you consume. As you lose water through perspiration, you also lose salt and minerals. This depletion leads to dizziness, fatigue and painful muscle cramps. Since you may also have a dulled sense of thirst, you may not instinctively reach for a water bottle as often as you should to keep cool and hydrated. Heat-related illness can become serious if it is not recognized and treated early.
Heat exhaustion feels like a summertime flu, marked by clammy skin, nausea, headache, dizziness, weakness and pale skin. Untreated, heat exhaustion can quickly escalate to heat stroke, a lifethreatening condition. The body’s heat-regulating system becomes overwhelmed by excessive heat, resulting in changes in alertness; a rapid, weak pulse; rapid, shallow breathing; and hot, dry skin. Dr. Bitner stresses, “If you or someone you know are experiencing any of these serious heat-related symptoms, seek help immediately. Many people try to hydrate and cool down the victim themselves even after serious heat-illness has set in, when in fact they
should seek, proper medical attention.” To prevent heat-related illness, follow these tips to stay cool in hot weather: • Drink two to four 8-ounce glasses of cool, non-caffeinated, nonalcoholic beverages every hour. • Avoid the heat — stay inside an air-conditioned area. • Keep window shades down to block direct sunlight. • Take a cool shower or bath. • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. • Decrease your activity level — avoid vigorous exercise. • As you enjoy the summer season, please remember — hydration and moderation.
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New Patients Welcome / Call for an Appointment - Most Major Insurance Plans Accepted
252-492-8576 • www.pwhpobgyn.com
Vance Medical Arts, 511 Ruin Creek Road, Suite 101 Henderson, NC 27536
252-492-8576
Granville Medical Complex, 1018 College Street Oxford, NC 27565
919-693-9998
Louisburg Medical Arts, 1501 N Bickett Boulevard, Suite D Louisburg, NC 27549
252-492-8576
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
9
Call today and schedule an appointment!
Parents, Don't Wait Too Late!
451 Ruin Creek Rd., Suite #205 Henderson, NC 27536 www.hendersonpedo.com Tel: 252-492-KIDS (5437) Fax: 252-492-5440 Rhonda L. Kearney, DDS, MS, PLLC Pediatric Dentist
Kerr Lake Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Now, a person can get sunscreens which protect against a greater portion of the ultraviolet light -- both UV-A and UV-B. You should be sure to use a sunscreen that protects against both.
Do not underestimate the risks of sunburns
S
unburns are not just a nuisance of summer or rites of a fishing trip. They are ver y harmful to the skin and can lead to skin cancers and other skin damage. Sunburns are directly linked to melanomas, the most serious form of skin cancer. While most skin cancers are relatively benign and do not spread, melanomas are much more like cancers of other areas: they spread easily, they are ver y difficult to cure, and they kill people. The incidence of melanomas is increasing rapidly — 4 percent per year — and they are occurring at younger ages each decade. It is not uncommon to see these serious skin cancers in
30-year-olds, and they are being seen in people in their 20s and even teens. It is not known exactly how sunburns predispose to melanomas, but it is clearly best to avoid sunburns. Each time you burn, it adds to the risk. Sunburns and skin cancers are primarily caused by the lower portion of the UV band, called UV-B. The damage to collagen and elastic fibers in the skin is primarily caused by the higher portion of the UV band called UV-A. The first sunscreens that were sold only protected against UV-B and allowed the aging changes from UV-A to continue unabated. Now, a person can get
sunscreens which protect against a greater portion of the ultraviolet light — both UV-A and UV-B. You should be sure to use a sunscreen that protects against both. Look for avobenzone in the ingredients or ask your pharmacist for assistance in choosing from the many products available. Use sun screens, tan slowly, and avoid sunburns and you can greatly decrease your risk of the different forms of skin cancer, as well as sagging, wrinkling, and aging of the skin. For the latest information about sunburns and proper sun screen protection, you can visit the American Cancer website at cancer.org.
•24 hour Professional Nursing Services include Post Operative Care, Restorative Nursing Care, Cardiac Rehabilitation, Diabetic Management, Stroke Care, Pain Management, Wound Care and Acute Care Services •Physical, Speech and Occupational Therapy •Registered Dietician Services •Social Services •Activities •Individualized Plans of Care
“We Are Neighbors Taking Care of Neighbors”
252-492-7021
1245 Park Avenue, Henderson, NC
Silver Quality Award We are one of two in the entire State & one of 59 in the Nation Awarded in 2013
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Give medicines time to work
I
n today’s life-style of expecting instant results and immediate gratification, we all have to take a step back and realize that our bodies are not computers and they do not respond at internet speed. Human genetics and physiology just do not change that fast. We need to keep this in mind when taking certain medicines. We should expect prompt responses when taking medicines for pain, but when it comes to depression, for example, we must have realistic expectations. Depression is a typical illness that takes time to respond to medicines. There are several reasons for this. One is that it takes time for a
steady level of the medicine to develop. Longer-acting medicines may take a week or more to get to a steady level. And since it is wise to start low and gradually build up, each time you increase your dose it takes a week to get to the new steady level. In addition to that, it can take weeks for the changes to occur in the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters are the chemicals that make the brain run. A deficiency or an imbalance can take time to return to normal. In some illnesses, the body needs time to “reset the thermostat.” A common standard for these medicines is to be at a therapeutic level for 4-6
weeks before deciding they are effective or not. Making frequent changes and dabbling with all the different antidepressants available is doomed to failure, and failure makes the depression seem even more hopeless. Give your medicines time to work, whether they are for depression, high blood pressure, or some other illness. If you have any questions about your medication, talk to your pharmacist or your physician. For a listing of physicians in the area, go to the Maria Parham Medical Center website at mariaparham.com or call the hospital’s Physician referral Line at (252) 438-MPMC.
Specializing in the Treatment of Diabetes, Thyroid Disease and Other Related Issues.
Offering Outpatient & Inpatient Care for the Following:
Diabetes Thyroid Disease Metabolic Disorders :RPHQ¶V +HDOWK
Menopause Osteoporosis Infertility Cholesterol Issues
Growth Disorders
Welcome to Maria Parham Endocrinology, the only full-time endocrinology specialty practice in the region. Diana E. Desai, MD is an endocrinologist, a physician who specializes in the treatment diseases of the endocrine system, such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism and other related issues. She has a special interest in women’s health issues and diseases of the thyroid.
This Practice is a Department of Maria Parham Medical Center.
We should expect prompt responses when taking medicines for pain, but when it comes to depression, for example, we must have realistic expectations.
Caring for Your Heart, Caring for You.
Offering Diagnosis & Treatment of Heart Related Illnesses Northern Carolina Cardiology is Maria Parham Medical Center’s newest physician practice, joining a growing list of outstanding hospital-owned practices. Northern Carolina Cardiology offers non-invasive heart care through the talents RI D WHDP RI %RDUG &HUWL¿ HG SK\VLFLDQV ZKR DUH DOVR RQ WKH medical staff at Duke University Medical Center. The physicians at Northern Carolina Cardiology are accepting new patients and accept referrals from your family physician.
Diana E. Desai, MD Endocrinologist
0HGLFDO 2I¿ FH 3OD]D 120 Charles Rollins Rd. Suite 206 Henderson, NC
(252) 436-6240
J. W. Jenkins Building
(252) 436-1085
568 Ruin Creek Road Suite 102 Henderson, NC
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Treat your blood pressure right
H
ow good your blood pressure is has a lot to do with how you live your life. Genetics play a big role too, of course, but your life style often plays a greater role and it is also something you can change. Much of it has to do with what you eat. Many people respond adversely to salt — too much salt in the diet raises the blood pressure. A low potassium, common in American diets, may also contribute to hypertension. It is not only the salt in the diet; it is the calories too, and the fats do not help either. Being overweight is one of the biggest factors for hypertension. Losing weight to within 15
percent of your ideal weight is very helpful in controlling blood pressure. This alone will keep many people from needing medicines. Losing weight also helps in many other illnesses, such as diabetes and arthritis. Tobacco use is another big cause, whether it is smoking or chewing tobacco. A high level of nicotine is absorbed which raises the blood pressure, as well as having many other ill effects. Alcohol will raise the blood pressure, especially if a person consumes more than two ounces per day. Many people get too little exercise. Regular exercise helps improve
the efficiency of the heart and circulation. It also helps in losing weight and controlling stresses. Stresses are always hard to control, but whenever possible, it is a good idea to reduce stresses in one’s life. If these life style measures do not keep your blood pressure normal, there are many very effective medicines your doctor can prescribe. What can you do today? Get your blood pressure checked. If it is higher than 120/80, consult your physician immediately. For a listing of physicians who utilize Maria Parham Medical Center, go to mariaparham.com on the web.
Four County Eye Associates DANIEL BERNSTEIN, M.D.
CYNTHIA A. HAMPTON, M.D.
Comprehensive Ophthalmology Routine Adult and Pediatric Exams/Glasses and Contact Lenses
Office Hours By Appointment
(252) 492-8021 800-331-6744
No Stitch Cataract Surgery: Laser Surgery: Medical and Surgical Treatment of Glaucoma and Diabetic Eye Diseases: Muscle and Eyelid Surgery.
Henderson Professional Plaza 451 Ruin Creek Road, Suite 204 Henderson, NC 27536 www.fourcountyeyeassociates.medem.com
Where the Patient Comes First.
Considering exercising? Let’s take a walk
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xercise does help. In a decades-long study of Harvard graduates, it has been shown that people who exercise regularly have less obesity, osteoporosis, hypertension and a longer life expectancy. It does not necessarily help to become obsessed with a certain activity, such as running, for a few months or years and then quit, or go skiing a couple times each winter. To be most useful, exercise does not have to be extremely vigorous, but it must be done on a regular basis. Walking is one of the best exercises for this. Walking has many advantages. It does not require any special equipment other than good shoes, and it does not require any special buildings or fields. It can be done anywhere and can be incorporated into a person’s daily activities of getting the mail or going to work. Virtually anyone can do it. Even in the winter it can be a good
exercise. When it is too cold or icy outside, a person can walk in shopping malls, up and down stairways or do volunteer work in hospitals, nursing homes, or in community projects. Walking can also be a good starter program for more vigorous sports such as running, swimming, or tennis. Injuries are uncommon with walking and the exercise keeps the bones strong by helping prevent the loss of calcium associated with aging. Walking does not burn quite as many calories per mile as running, but it is still an excellent way to help reduce your weight. The weight loss and cardiac benefits can be further increased by vigorous arm-swinging or carrying small hand weights. As with any activity, consult with your doctor if you have any health related concerns before beginning. If you do not have a doctor and are looking for one who is accepting new patients, call the Physician Referral Line at (252) 438-MPMC.
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
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What is Physical & Rehabilatative Medicine? Physiatrists, or Rehabilitation Physicians, are specialists who treat injuries or illnesses of the nerves, muscles and bones. Physiatrists take into account the body as a whole and develop care plans that enhance movement and overall quality of life, often without surgery. These treatment plans can include specialized exercise regiments and pain control with an emphasis on
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assessmenets, personalized healthcare news, wellness LQIRUPDWLRQ DQG HYHQ D PHGLFDO OLEUDU\ 7R VLJQ XS JR WR
www.mariaparham.com/ehealth 566 Ruin Creek Road Henderson, NC (252) 438-4143 www.mariaparham.com