Leading Medicine Fall 2021, Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital edition

LEADING MEDICINE FA LL 2021

Ways to Keep Your Lungs Healthy

Women's Health: What You Should Know

MAMMOGRAM FAQs

Your Breast Cancer Screening Questions Answered Visit houstonmethodist.org/lmn/fall-2021 to read more online.

YOUR LINK TO HEALTH INNOVATIONS, NEWS AND TIPS IN EAST HOUSTON/BAYTOWN

IN THIS ISSUE - FALL 2021

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Say No to Hernia Pain Hernias are a common condition, causing pain that can make life miserable. But you don’t have to suffer from hernia pain, thanks to advances in minimally invasive hernia repair techniques.

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Women’s Health: What You Should Know With so much misinformation about women’s health, it may be confusing to know what you should do to take care of yourself. Our physician answers some common health questions women have about heart disease, breast cancer and thinning bones.

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Your Breast Cancer Screening Questions Answered Let’s face it — life can get hectic. But it’s important to make time for a screening mammogram. Having an annual mammogram is an effective way to protect your health.

Learn how to prepare for your mammogram and get tips on understanding your breast imaging options and results.

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High-Risk Pregnancy: We’re Here to Support You Finding out that you may be at a high risk for complications during pregnancy can be a cause for concern. But understanding your condition and getting prenatal care from a team of experts can help you feel confident about having a healthy delivery.

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The ABCs of Hepatitis Could your fatigue, fever and muscle aches be caused by the flu or is it something else — like hepatitis — an inflammation of the liver? Safeguard your health by learning about hepatitis and knowing what symptoms to watch for.

Stay in the Race: Avoid Injury From Walking and Running Running and walking are great ways to exercise. However, these activities can lead to injuries of the ankles, knees and shins. Find out what can cause these common injuries and get tips on how to prevent them.

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Ways to Keep Your Lungs Healthy Our lungs are vital to our health. That’s why taking certain precautions and making healthy lifestyle choices are key to protecting the lungs. Learn what steps you can take to reduce your risk of respiratory illness.

NEWS & EVENTS

COMPREHENSIVE BACK AND NECK PAIN TREATMENT IN BAYTOWN

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aytown area residents suffering from neck and back pain now have advanced, evidence-based options when it comes to treatment at Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital’s Spine Program.

The experienced team is here to guide you to finding relief from back and neck pain, whether it is everyday discomfort or severe pain from a complex condition or injury.

Dr. Comron Under the direction of Dr. Comron Saifi, chief of Saifi orthopedic surgery at Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital, the spine program offers: A multidisciplinary team of board-certified doctors and specialists Personalized treatment plans ranging from nonsurgical options to minimally invasive surgery Comprehensive care close to home In addition to surgical options, the spine program offers a full range of treatments, including nonsurgical options like physical therapy, pain management, massage therapy and acupuncture. The staff includes spine care-specific nurse navigators to assist you in your journey to finding relief from back and neck pain.

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Learn More For information, visit houstonmethodist.org/baytown or call 281.427.7400.

SAY NO TO HERNIA PAIN Advanced Surgical Techniques Offer Relief

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ernias can cause debilitating pain, if left untreated.

But you don’t have to suffer from pain, thanks to advances in hernia repair techniques.

Hernias occur when Dr. Robert tissue pushes through an Ochoa opening in the abdomen or groin area. Two of the most common types of hernia are: A bdominal hernia: When tissue or intestine pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall.

I nguinal hernia: When a part of the intestine bulges through the muscle in the groin.

Hernias are a common condition.

They can affect men, women and children.

“Hernias may be caused by many factors, including age, a birth defect, chronic coughing, an injury or surgery, or from lifting heavy objects,” said Dr. Robert Ochoa, a surgical critical care specialist and general surgeon with Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital.

WATCH FOR SYMPTOMS

It’s important to see your doctor if you have any of the following hernia signs and symptoms: Pain in the abdomen when coughing, bending, twisting or lifting A bulge or lump in the abdomen or groin Heaviness, weakness or dull pain in the groin or abdomen Nausea, vomiting or both An inability to move your bowels or pass gas If you need hernia-repair surgery, your surgeon may recommend roboticassisted surgery.

A MINIMALLY INVASIVE TECHNIQUE

During the procedure, the surgeon operates a computer console with tiny surgical tools attached to the robotic arms.

Get Back on Track

Don’t let hernia pain keep you from enjoying an active life. Visit houstonmethodist.org/baytown or call 832.556.6046 to schedule an appointment with a Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital surgical specialist.

After making several small incisions, the surgeon inserts a thin lighted tube with a camera attached and tiny instruments into your body. “The camera provides a magnified, 3D view of the area. It allows us see things we normally wouldn’t be able to see,” Ochoa explained.

The robotic arms precisely translate the surgeon’s hand, wrist and finger movements, providing pinpoint accuracy to repair the hernia.

BENEFITS OF ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY Compared to open surgery, patients who have robotic-assisted surgery experience: A faster recovery Less pain and bleeding A lower risk of infection A shorter hospital stay

CHECK OUT OUR DIGITAL MAGAZINE AT HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/NEWSROOM/NEWSLETTERS HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/BAYTOWN 3

WOMEN’S HEALTH: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

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here’s a lot of misinformation about women’s health out there, making it difficult to know what’s true.

Dr. Pooja Kulkarni, a board-certified family Dr. Pooja medicine specialist with Kulkarni the Houston Methodist Primary Care Group in Baytown, gets the conversation started by answering three common questions women ask about their health.

SHOULD WOMEN BE CONCERNED ABOUT HEART DISEASE?

“Absolutely. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women,” Kulkarni said.

“It is especially important for women to understand the signs of a heart attack because they are more likely to have subtle symptoms.” Watch for: Jaw pain Shortness of breath Nausea or vomiting Fatigue “Women need to know if they’re at risk for heart disease. Schedule regular visits with a primary care doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels,” Kulkarni said. Other ways you can reduce your risk include: Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and limiting sodium, added sugars and saturated fats.

Being active for at least 30 minutes every day. Short on time? Break up your activity into three 10-minute bursts.

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IS MOST BREAST CANCER HEREDITARY?

“No. Only about 5% to 10% of breast cancers are hereditary. However, if breast cancer runs in your family, your risk increases. Inheriting the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene from a parent is the most common cause of hereditary breast cancer,” Kulkarni explained.

The biggest risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman and getting older. So, be sure to talk to your doctor about your personal health situation and when to begin screening mammograms.

“Practice healthy habits to help lower your breast cancer risk,” Kulkarni said.

Focus on: Limiting your intake of alcoholic beverages to one drink a day. That’s equal to 12 ounces of regular beer, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor.

Maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight, if needed.

Thinking carefully about starting hormone replacement therapy.

IS TAKING CALCIUM THE ONLY WAY TO KEEP BONES STRONG?

“Taking calcium is important, but adding vitamin D and making lifestyle choices are also essential,” Kulkarni said.

Women reach their peak bone mass in their 30s. “Your bone mass drops significantly in the year leading up to menopause. So, it’s vital to not wait until after menopause to start thinking about your bone health,” Kulkarni explained.

Maintain strong bones by: Doing weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, hiking and strength training with weights or resistance bands.

Enjoying calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, seafood and sardines, leafy greens, tofu and foods that are fortified with calcium.

Avoiding or quitting smoking.

“Talk to your doctor to make sure you’re getting enough calcium and vitamin D. And if you smoke, ask for help to quit,” Kulkarni said.

Make Time for Your Health

To schedule an in-person or virtual appointment with a primary care doctor at Houston Methodist Primary Care Group in Baytown, visit houstonmethodist.org/baytown-pcp or give us a call at 832.556.6670.

COMPREHENSIVE WOMEN’S HEALTH SERVICES At Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital, we care for women at every stage of life.

Our team approach to care means you can count on receiving personalized health care, coordinated treatment and the support you need.

You’ll benefit from our numerous services, such as: C ardiology, including heart disease prevention D ermatology, including early detection of melanoma and other skin cancers E ndocrinology and thyroid problems, including managing diabetes G ynecologic oncology, including minimally invasive procedures M ammograms and breast care

M edical and surgical gynecologic care O rthopedics, including joint replacement surgery O steoporosis care, using the newest technology to measure bone health and strength N eurology and stroke prevention, including migraines and aneurysms P elvic health and urogynecology to treat urinary and fecal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse P regnancy, labor and delivery, and newborn care R heumatology and autoimmune diseases, such as lupus S leep disorders, including sleep apnea and insomnia Taking care of your health is priority No. 1.

To make an appointment with a specialist, visit houstonmethodist.org/find-a-doctor or call 281.428.2273.

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MAMMOGRAM FAQs

YOUR BREAST CANCER SCREENING QUESTIONS ANSWERED

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hen life is busy, it’s easy to put everyone else’s needs before your own. But it’s important to make time for yourself — and your annual screening mammogram. If you’re not sure when to start getting mammograms or what to expect, we’re here to help.

Dr. Ana Benveniste, a breast radiologist Dr. Ana with Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Benveniste Baytown, answered some common questions women have about getting mammograms.

PREPARING FOR YOUR MAMMOGRAM When should I start getting screening mammograms and how often?

Your doctor may recommend annual mammograms starting at age 40 if you have an average risk for breast cancer. Ask your doctor about your risk for breast cancer and the screening schedule that’s right for you.

Why should I get an annual mammogram?

Getting regular mammograms makes it possible to detect breast cancers when they are small and easier to treat. It’s also helpful to be able to review your mammogram history and track any changes in the breasts over time.

What do I need to know about scheduling my mammogram?

It may be helpful to avoid scheduling a mammogram immediately prior to or during your menstrual cycle, when breasts may be more tender. However, it’s important to get in for a mammogram whenever it is convenient with your schedule.

What should I wear for my exam?

Life is busy and it’s OK if you show up as you are for your mammogram. Wearing a two-piece outfit makes it easier to remove your top for your mammogram and it’s best to avoid wearing deodorant, powders or lotions. You’ll be offered wipes to remove deodorant, if needed.

Learn More Online Visit us online at houstonmethodist.org/lmn/fall-2021 to read more about breast health, screening options and the early detection of breast cancer.

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TYPES OF MAMMOGRAPHY AND BREAST IMAGING Whether you need a screening mammogram or other breast imaging test, we have the technology and expertise to guide you through the next steps.

3D mammogram is a highly efficient and accurate digital technology used to identify smaller tumors sooner for earlier breast cancer detection.

Breast ultrasound is an imaging test that can determine if a lump or mass is filled with fluid.

B reast MRI is an extremely sensitive test to look for breast cancer and may also be used for breast cancer treatment planning.

Does my insurance cover a mammogram?

Most major insurance plans cover an annual screening mammogram, but it’s important to call and verify your coverage.

further testing. A diagnostic mammogram may be ordered after a screening mammogram shows a questionable area, if you feel a lump in your breast or have other symptoms.

CREATING A COMFORTABLE EXPERIENCE

GETTING YOUR RESULTS

What should I expect during my visit?

Who will review my images?

You can get a mammogram done quickly. Prior to your appointment, you’ll be asked to complete your registration through the patient portal MyChart. After checking in, you’ll be escorted to a private room to change into a robe before meeting with the mammography technologist.

What happens during a screening mammogram?

The technologist will ask you some questions related to your health, including family history of breast cancer and any symptoms you may be experiencing. These questions are important to help make sure we’re doing the right type of mammogram. Next, you’ll be asked to stand in front of a 3D mammography machine and the technologist will take X-rays of two different views of each breast.

Are mammograms painful?

Some women may find the breast compression to be uncomfortable or painful, but most women tolerate the exam quite well. The compression takes about 10 seconds for each image, and our technologists are trained to listen to you and make the experience as comfortable as possible.

UNDERSTANDING MAMMOGRAM TECHNOLOGY

Board-certified breast radiologists are specially trained to interpret breast mammogram results.

How will I get my results?

Once reviewed by a doctor, you can view your results in the patient portal. If further testing is needed, a staff member will contact you to share findings and schedule additional imaging.

What does it mean to have dense breast tissue on a mammogram?

Density refers to how much fibrous tissue is in the breast. Having high density on a mammogram or an MRI makes it more difficult to see a mass. In some cases, we may order further testing in addition to a mammogram for women with high breast density.

What if I get called back for a second mammogram?

Getting called for a second mammogram doesn’t mean you have cancer. It means we need more information to see what’s going on. When you come in for a diagnostic mammogram, a breast radiologist will meet with you to share the results and answer your questions.

What is a 3D mammogram?

A 3D mammogram is the latest, most advanced technology to detect breast cancer with the greatest accuracy. 3D technology uses a low dose of radiation, yet allows for more targeted views that help find small cancers.

What is the purpose of a screening mammogram vs. diagnostic mammogram?

A screening mammogram is done when you have no symptoms of breast cancer. The purpose is to find possible cancer at an early stage even before you can feel a lump. If we find an irregularity on a screening mammogram, you may be asked to come back for

Scheduling Your Mammogram To schedule your mammogram at Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Baytown, visit houstonmethodist.org/breast-care or call 346.292.5481.

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THE ABCs OF HEPATITIS

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ould your flulike symptoms be more than a run-of-the-mill virus? Vague complaints of fatigue, fever, muscle aches and loss of appetite can signal hepatitis, an Dr. Rashid inflammation of the liver.

Khan Some types of hepatitis can become chronic and cause extensive liver damage, cirrhosis (potentially fatal scarring), liver cancer and liver failure.

In the U.S., three strains of viral hepatitis, A, B and C, typically lead to infection. The hepatitis D and E viruses are far less common. Common hepatitis symptoms include: Fatigue Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes Loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting “Not everyone with hepatitis has symptoms. Millions of people become infected, suffer liver damage and transmit the viruses to others unknowingly,” said Dr. Rashid Khan, gastroenterologisthepatologist with Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital.

HEPATITIS A (HAV)

HAV illness is usually mild, especially in children. The virus is found in the stool.

It’s transmitted when an infected person doesn’t wash their hands after using the toilet and then handles the food you eat.

You may also contract HAV through direct contact with an infected person or by eating raw shellfish from sewagepolluted waters.

Symptoms can appear within five to 15 days after exposure. Children often don't have symptoms other than tiring easily.

Treatment involves resting, eating more protein and drinking plenty of fluids.

Typically, the liver heals within one to two months.

“The HAV vaccine is advised for all children, people with liver disease, day care workers, household members

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of infected people, travelers to areas with poor sanitation and residents of states with a high rate of hepatitis like Texas,” Khan said.

HEPATITIS B (HBV)

HBV is spread by coming in contact with infected blood, saliva, semen or vaginal secretions. Health care workers may be at risk because of accidental needle sticks.

Pregnant women should be tested for HBV because their babies can become infected during childbirth. If you test positive for HBV during pregnancy, your newborn will be treated to prevent infection.

HBV symptoms appear between 45 days and 160 days after exposure. The infection resolves within six months, and patients develop immunity.

“While not a cure, treatment for chronic HBV infection may include medications, such as Tenofovir or entecavir. We check patients regularly to watch for severe organ damage. In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary,” Khan explained.

People with chronic HBV infection can infect others. But because most people don’t have symptoms, infection can go undetected. The HBV vaccine is advised for: Infants and children International travelers Hemodialysis patients People with liver disease Health care, emergency or prison workers

HEPATITIS C (HCV)

HCV can cause acute or chronic infection of the liver. You may learn that you have HCV after a routine blood test shows elevated liver enzymes, or you get a positive test before donating blood.

The virus spreads through direct exposure to infected blood. Health care and emergency workers are most at risk, as are those who share needles. Your doctor should recommend getting tested for HCV according to CDC guidelines, which advise once-in-a-lifetime testing for all adults.

STOP HEPATITIS

Take these steps to protect yourself and your family against hepatitis: If you might have been exposed, see your doctor. Getting immediate treatment may prevent infection.

Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. Wash your hands after using the bathroom and changing diapers, and before preparing and eating food.

Don’t eat raw shellfish.

Avoid sharing toothbrushes and razors.

Don’t share or reuse hypodermic needles.

If you’re pregnant, get tested for hepatitis viruses.

Reconsider a tattoo or body piercing.

Avoid unprotected sex with an infected partner.

Safeguard Your Health To schedule an appointment with a gastroenterology-hepatology specialist with Houston Methodist Gastroenterology Associates, visit houstonmethodist.org/baytown or call 281.422.7970.

HIGH-RISK PREGNANCY: We’re Here to Support You

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etting the news that you’re pregnant can start your thoughts swirling. There’s so much to know and plan for over the next few months. If you’ve learned that you have a high-risk pregnancy, it means your doctor has identified a situation that puts you, your baby — or both of you — at a higher risk for complications during pregnancy or delivery.

Dr. Faith Let’s explore some of the reasons why women Ighoyivwi may have a high-risk pregnancy.

Maternal age. Pregnant women ages 35 and older are at greater risk for problems during pregnancy.

Preexisting health conditions. “Conditions that can result in a high-risk pregnancy include diabetes, epilepsy, heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, sexually transmitted infections or tuberculosis,” said Dr. Faith Ighoyivwi, an obstetriciangynecologist with the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Baytown.

Carrying twins or multiples. Risks increase for women who are pregnant with twins or multiples.

Lifestyle-related risks. Women who smoke cigarettes or misuse drugs or alcohol are at greater risk for pregnancy complications.

Pregnancy-related health issues. “Gestational diabetes, high blood pressure or a history of miscarriage put you in the highrisk category,” Ighoyivwi explained. Hyperemesis gravidarum, or extreme nausea and vomiting that continues beyond the first trimester is another pregnancy-related condition. It can lead to dehydration and weight loss.

PRENATAL CARE BASICS

Having a healthy pregnancy is a team effort with your health care providers. And you and your baby are the VIPs of the team. Here are ways to help improve your chances of having a healthy pregnancy: G o to regularly scheduled prenatal care visits. This helps your doctor watch for any problems that could affect you or your baby. If you have trouble going in for frequent visits, ask your doctor about virtual prenatal visits.

M ake healthy choices to keep you and your baby safe.

Get help to quit smoking or misusing alcohol or drugs.

S ee a maternal-fetal specialist. Your doctor may refer you to a maternal-fetal specialist. They are trained to care for women with high-risk pregnancies. They work with your doctors to provide the best possible outcomes for you and your unborn baby.

WATCH FOR THESE WARNING SIGNS Contact your health care provider right away if you experience any unusual signs or symptoms during your pregnancy, such as: V aginal bleeding or fluid discharge S udden, severe headaches C ramping or pains in the lower belly B lurred vision or feeling dizzy B urning or pain when you urinate S udden swelling of the face, hands and feet F ever or chills F eeling sad or like life isn’t worth living

“You will be monitored with imaging and other tests. A fetal ultrasound can find problems with baby’s developing brain, heart or other organs,” Ighoyivwi explained.

Routine urine tests watch for high levels of protein, which can indicate preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a condition that causes high blood pressure during pregnancy. Blood tests can alert providers about gestational diabetes.

Having a high-risk pregnancy can be a challenge, but your health care team is here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Get Peace of Mind Our experienced staff, state-of-the-art birthing suites and monitoring technology help ensure you and your baby receive the best care possible during pregnancy, labor and delivery. Virtual tours of the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Baytown are available by visiting houstonmethodist.org/baytown or calling 281.420.8626 for more information.

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STAY IN THE RACE Avoid Injury From Walking and Running

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unning and walking not only can make you feel good, but are also good for you. Starting with even 10 minutes a day may reduce your risk of Dr. Andrew J. cardiovascular disease.

Friedmann Injuries, however, are common. Many factors can contribute to chronic (overuse) and acute (sprains, strains) injuries, including shoe condition and overtraining. Here are some common injuries and ways to prevent them.

ACHILLES TENDINITIS

What it may feel like The Achilles tendon connects your heel bone to your calf muscle. It helps you walk, run and jump. Achilles tendinitis can cause pain above the heel in the lower leg after activity. It may feel worse in the morning.

How to prevent it “Stretching is essential before working out especially when it comes to the Achilles tendon, switch up your exercises, increase the length and intensity of your workouts slowly and rest when you have symptoms,” said Dr. Andrew J. Friedmann, an orthopedic surgeon at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Baytown.

RUNNER’S KNEE

Runner’s knee, or patellofemoral pain syndrome, may occur when your kneecap is out of alignment, or due to overuse or injury.

What it may feel like Pain typically builds gradually beneath or around the kneecap. Squatting or using stairs can make it feel worse. Your knee may also feel stiff after sitting for long periods of time.

How to prevent it “The best way to prevent runner’s knee is to do strengthening exercises for your hip abductors, hip extensors and quadriceps,” said Friedmann.

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SHIN SPLINTS

Shin splints are common in new runners and walkers and also in those returning to activity after extended time off.

What it may feel like Shin splints can feel like sharp, dull or throbbing pain in the shin while running or walking.

How to prevent it Wear appropriate shoes for your foot type and training intensity.

Replace your shoes every 400 to 600 miles.

Increase your mileage gradually.

Stretch your calf muscles.

Strengthen your hip abductors and extensors.

Modify your training schedule and avoid hills.

SPRAINS AND STRAINS

“A sprain is a stretch or tear in a ligament, the band of connective tissue that joins bones. A strain is a twist, pull or tear of a muscle or tendon, the cord of tissue connecting muscle to bone,” Friedmann explained.

What it may feel like Signs of a sprain include tenderness and pain, bruising, swelling and muscle tightness. Symptoms of a strain include pain, muscle spasm and loss of strength.

How to prevent it Take time to warm up and cool down and strengthen the muscles around ankles and knees with balance exercises.

7 BEGINNER TIPS TO GET YOU RACE READY Signing up for a 5K race is great way to stay motivated and have fun when starting a new walking or running regimen. If you can run for 30 to 40 minutes, you can complete a 5K. Here are tips to help you get race ready and avoid injury.

1. Stay hydrated.

2. Wear comfortable, supportive footwear.

3. Always warm up and cool down.

4. Stretch before and after every run.

5. Make sure you can walk for 30 minutes at a time before trying to run. Then run slowly at first.

6. Make a schedule for yourself and stick to it.

7. Know your limits — progress at your own pace.

Drop In for Orthopedic Care When you need care for a running or walking injury, come in for a same-day evaluation and treatment at Houston Methodist Orthopedic Injury Clinic in Baytown located near you. Major insurance plans are accepted.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/osm-injury-baytown or call 281.427.7400.

Chronic conditions, spine injuries, motor vehicle accidents and workers’ compensation injuries are not treated at the injury clinic. Please call 281.428.2273 to schedule an appointment with the appropriate physician for those conditions.

WAYS TO KEEP YOUR

LUNGS HEALTHY

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hile we can’t completely limit our exposure to illnesses that affect the lungs — like COVID-19, flu and pneumonia — we can safeguard the health Dr. Houssam of our lungs by taking Oueini certain precautions and making healthy lifestyle choices.

Use the following tips to help keep your lungs healthy and reduce the risk of lasting damage if you do come down with a respiratory illness.

Quit smoking and vaping.

Harmful chemicals in tobacco and vaping liquids cause inflammation and damage to the lungs. Smoking also increases your risk for lung cancer. And while scientists are still studying the health effects of using e-cigarettes, the aerosol can contain cancer-causing substances.

Ask your doctor for help to stop smoking or vaping.

Manage chronic health conditions. Follow your health care provider’s instructions to control diabetes and respiratory illnesses, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). “These conditions put you at greater risk for developing severe illness from COVID-19 as well as flu-related complications, such as bronchitis or pneumonia,” said Dr. Houssam Oueini, a board-certified pulmonologist with Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital.

Reduce exposure to allergens.

This is important if you have allergies and asthma. Dust mites,

mold and mildew, pet dander, and tree and grass pollen are common culprits. Wash bedding in hot water, dust at least once a week and wear a filtering mask when you work in the garden or mow the lawn.

Avoid outdoor and indoor air pollution. Stay inside on days when air pollution levels are high.

Have your home tested for radon, an odorless gas that causes lung cancer.

Some cleaning products can also affect your breathing, so use them carefully and with proper ventilation.

Get regular exercise. “Aerobic and muscle-building exercises can benefit your lungs in two ways: They increase lung capacity, or the amount of air your lungs can hold, and they may improve your lung function,” Oueini said.

TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH

Taking care of your overall health is also good for your lungs — it helps boost your immune system so you can fight off illness and heal faster if you become sick or injured.

Eat a nutritious diet. Plan your meals and snacks around lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. They help maintain a healthy weight, prevent certain types of cancer and keep blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check.

Schedule checkups. “Seeing your doctor regularly helps your doctor monitor your health and find any problems early when they are most treatable. Getting recommended health screenings, a yearly flu shot and other vaccinations are vital to good health,” Oueini explained.

LUNG CANCER SCREENINGS Lung cancer often goes undetected until it spreads. That’s why it’s important to stay on track with lung cancer screenings. If you’re a current or former smoker, ask your doctor about getting screened.

SHOULD I GET TESTED? Your doctor may recommend testing if you meet the following criteria established by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force: A ge 50-80 years N o current signs or symptoms of lung cancer T obacco smoking history of at least 20 pack years (Multiply the number of packs smoked per day by the number of years smoked.

For example, 2 packs a day x 10 years = 20 pack years.

C urrent smoker or former smoker, who has quit within the last 15 years H ave not had a chest CT scan in the last year.

LUNG CANCER SCREENING SERVICES A nnual low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans H ealth care consultations P rogram to help smokers quit R eferrals to Houston Methodist specialists Lung screening LDCT scan results can range from showing no disease to being suspicious for cancer.

However, most suspicious nodules turn out not to be cancer.

A positive screening LDCT may require additional testing to determine whether the suspicious finding is a cancer, which often is confirmed by a biopsy.

Learn More To find out if you’re a candidate for the Lung Cancer Screening Program at Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital, visit houstonmethodist.org/lung-screening or call 346.816.4498.

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Early Detection Starts With Your

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At Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Baytown, our specialists review your mammogram history and track results over time — detecting changes earlier.

That’s why getting your mammogram starting at age 40 — or earlier, if you have a family history — is so important.

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Advanced Breast Screenings Close to Home

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Our Breast Care Center offers:

• The latest 3D mammogram technology • Board-certified breast imaging radiologists

• Acceptance of most major insurance plans

Your health is our priority. To better protect you, we took it one step further by requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for all of our physicians, staff and employees.

Scan the QR code, visit houstonmethodist.org/breast-care or call 346.292.PINK (7465) to schedule your mammogram today.

We do not require a doctor’s order for your annual screening mammogram.

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