LEADING MEDICINE W INT ER 2022
Forget Fad Diets: Lose Weight Sensibly
Team Up With Your Doctor FOR BETTER HEALTH How to Manage Your Hip Pain Visit houstonmethodist.org/lmn/winter-2022 to read more online.
YOUR LINK TO HEALTH INNOVATIONS, NEWS AND TIPS IN WEST HOUSTON/KATY
LUNG CANCER SCREENINGS CAN SAVE LIVES
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hile survival rates for other cancers have improved over the years, lung cancer statistics have lagged dramatically behind. The overall five-year survival rate for lung cancer is 18.6%, compared to 64.5% for colorectal cancer, 89.6% for breast cancer, and 98.2% for prostate cancer, according to the American Dr. Chinemerem Lung Association. Abanonu Lung cancer — the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. — is often not found until the cancer is at an advanced stage. “One of the biggest hurdles in reducing lungcancer deaths has been finding an effective screening method to catch the disease earlier, when it’s more treatable,” said Dr. Chinemerem Abanonu, a board-certified hematologistoncologist with the Houston Methodist Cancer Center at West Hospital. Screening for lung cancer makes it possible to identify nonsmall cell lung cancer at an early stage when it’s more treatable. “Research has shown low-dose spiral computed tomography (CT) scans to be effective in detecting cancer and reducing deaths among older, heavy smokers,” Abanonu added.
LUNG CANCER DETECTION WITH ION State-of-the-art technology makes it possible to detect lung cancer with an innovative lung biopsy method for patients who have had an abnormal chest imaging report. Houston Methodist Cancer Center at West now offers an innovative lung biopsy method for patients who have had an abnormal chest imaging report. The ION platform performs lung biopsies on nodules that are difficult to reach with standard biopsy. With ION, a physician uses a robotic-assisted bronchoscopy with an ultra-thin catheter than can twist and turn through hard-to-see areas of the lungs. This technology helps detect lung cancer more quickly in complex cases, which leads to faster diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer.
DO YOU NEED A SCREENING?
Not everyone is a candidate for a lung cancer screening. CT scans do carry the risk of radiation exposure as well as finding growths that turn out not to be cancer — also called “false positives” — which can lead to unnecessary biopsies and undue worry for patients. In addition, not all health insurance plans cover the cost of this screening. CT scans carry a risk of low-dose radiation exposure, but your doctor may recommend a low-dose CT scan for lung cancer screening if you’re age 55 to 77 and have a history of heavy smoking. This includes current and former smokers who have a history of smoking at least two packs a day for 15 years. “If you’re a current or former smoker, have a discussion with your doctor about your individual lung cancer risk factors and whether you’d benefit from a lung cancer screening,” Abanonu said.
Connect with Your Doctor
If you have concerns about your risk for lung cancer, talk to your doctor. To learn more about lung cancer screening at Houston Methodist, visit houstonmethodist.org/lung-screening today.
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GET HELP TO QUIT Stopping use of tobacco products can make a significant difference in lowering your risk for lung cancer and other cancers. Here are some tips to help improve your chance of success: G et help with the mental part of addiction. This may include support groups and telephone counseling as well as the support of loved ones. T ackle the physical aspects of quitting. This often involves use of nicotine replacement therapy (gum, lozenges, patches, inhalers, nasal sprays, etc.). Find a method that works with your lifestyle or smoking patterns. Talk with your health care provider about prescription medication, if necessary. The antidepressant bupropion can help relieve withdrawal symptoms, while varenicline works by interfering with nicotine receptors in the brain.
FORGET FAD DIETS Lose Weight Sensibly
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f you’re feeling frustrated by weight loss setbacks, the promise of a quick fix may sound like a dream come true. Fad diets often create a lot of hype with celebrities Dr. Garth Davis promoting products and dieters boasting how many pounds or inches they lost on a diet or program. But how do you know whether the claims about a diet are real or bogus? “Unfortunately, many of these fad diets are unhealthy, and some can even do more harm than good,” said Dr. Garth Davis, bariatric surgeon with Houston Methodist Center for Weight Loss & Bariatric Surgery at West Hospital. Let’s debunk some popular types of fad diets: Diet pills. Over-the-counter weight loss pills promise to block carbs or fat, suppress your appetite, or miraculously burn fat while you sleep, but these claims can be misleading. “Diet pills may cause harmful side effects and should not be taken without consulting with a doctor,” Davis said. Herbal weight loss products. Don’t assume herbal products are safe because they’re “natural.” Many herbal products are designed to increase urination or bowel movements and stimulate the central nervous system. “The ingredients are powerful and may lead to serious side effects or interactions with other medications you’re taking,” Davis added. Rapid weight loss programs. Some diets set unrealistic limits on the number of calories allowed per day or restrict the number of bites of food you can take
at a meal. “This approach can backfire because it can cause fatigue and nutrient deficiencies, and may actually cause your metabolism to slow down,” Davis said. Mono diets. With a mono diet, you’re allowed to eat unlimited quantities of one type of food — cabbage soup, grapefruit, bananas, etc. The idea is that you’ll consume less when you’re restricted to one type of food. “However, leaving out certain food groups can lead to constipation, nutrient deficiencies, and changes in cholesterol levels,” Davis explained. “Mono diets are dangerously restrictive and only set you up for food cravings and binge eating.”
GETTING REAL ABOUT WEIGHT LOSS
If you’re trying to lose weight, the best chance for long-term success is to be sensible and develop a lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and daily physical activity. “A safe weight loss program should be focused on a balanced, nutritious diet with a variety of low-fat and high-fiber foods, such as fruits and vegetables, legumes, and whole grains,” Davis said. “Remember that losing weight isn’t just about your diet. You need to take care of other aspects of your health for lasting results. This means getting eight hours of sleep, drinking plenty of water, managing stress, and moving more throughout the day,” Davis added. Check out weight loss apps for counting calories, recording physical activity, and tracking your progress toward your goals. Talk with your doctor for help getting started with a plan for safely losing weight.
FAD DIET RED FLAGS How can you tell which diet plans are trustworthy? A good rule of thumb is that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid the following: Products that promise rapid weight loss Diets that restrict you to eating one type of food Plans that require you to buy expensive prepackaged meals, juices or pills Programs that promise losing weight without exercise
A Program with Proven Results
Skip the fad diets and try a program designed for long-term weight loss. Visit houstonmethodist.org/weight-management or call 832.667.LOSE (5673) to learn more about your weight loss options at Houston Methodist.
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Team Up With Your Doctor for Better Health W hen it comes to your health, your primary care provider is your quarterback. They have a big-picture view and understanding of Dr. James your overall health, and Scott Pearce they can help you make the right moves to stay healthy. A good relationship with your primary care provider is essential for your health. “Having a primary care provider who knows you and is familiar with your health history can help you tackle problems and stay healthy throughout your life,” said Dr. James Scott Pearce, a family medicine physician with Houston Methodist Primary Care Group in West Houston.
IT’S A TEAM EFFORT
Here are some ways to make the most of your health visits and build a winning relationship with your provider. Find a primary care provider. Look for a doctor who is board-certified, speaks your preferred language,
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and offers convenient appointments in a location near you. Above all, you should choose a doctor you trust who listens and makes you feel comfortable. Schedule an annual exam. It’s important to schedule an annual checkup even when you feel fine health-wise. Annual checkups help you stay on top of your health, making it possible to prevent and detect problems early. “An annual exam is a good time to discuss preventive health screenings and follow up on chronic disease management,” Pearce said. Identify communication barriers. Resources are available if you or a loved one struggles with hearing, understanding or remembering what is said in your health visits. Bringing a loved one along to your appointment may help you better understand the information shared by your doctor while providing emotional support, if needed. Contact the doctor’s office to let them know if you need help with communication or would like to have a family member or friend join you for your appointment.
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Put Your Health First
Prioritize your health by making an appointment with a primary care provider. Convenient appointments are available at a location near you. Schedule an appointment with a doctor at Houston Methodist Primary Care Group by visiting houstonmethodist.org/pcg/west or calling 832.522.8444.
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A CHECKLIST FOR YOUR NEXT CHECKUP
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Share your health history. Managing your health is easier when you build a relationship with a primary care provider who knows you and your health history. Your doctor may recommend health screening tests based on your age, personal or family health history, and other factors. For example, if you have a family history of heart disease, stroke, diabetes or cancer, your doctor may emphasize ways to prevent disease and recommend screening tests to help detect disease early. Be open and honest. There’s no reason to hold back information because you’re worried or embarrassed. Your primary care provider is there to support you in improving your health, not to pass judgment on your decisions. The doctor-patient relationship is ironclad in its confidentiality, with many ethical, professional and legal standards that protect it. Having open and honest conversations about your health helps doctor better serve your health care needs.
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Talk about mental health. Your primary care doctor can help with mental health concerns, including screening and treatment for depression and anxiety. Your doctor can also connect you with referrals to therapy, counseling or specialized care. Ask about vaccines. Your primary doctor can be a great resource to help you understand which vaccines are recommended for you and when to get them. “It’s important to have these conversations with your doctor so you can make informed decisions based on the latest medical guidance,” Pearce said. Set goals for your health. If you want to lose weight, quit smoking or make other healthy changes, your doctor can help you get started. Your chances of success improve when you have medical support for making big changes to your health.
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Going to the doctor for a yearly checkup is an important part of your health routine. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare for your next visit: Ask about screenings or vaccinations. When scheduling your appointment, find out whether you’re due for any shots or tests. Knowing in advance helps so that you’re mentally and physically prepared — especially if there are any special instructions to follow, such as fasting before a cholesterol test. Review your family medical history. Your doctor may ask about any new diseases or conditions that have occurred in your close relatives since your last visit. If needed, write down notes about your family health history to share with your doctor. Write down a list of questions. When you’re in the doctor’s office, it can be hard to remember everything. Having a list of questions prepared ahead of time can help you make sure you get answers to all your questions. Bring a list of medications. Your doctor’s office will ask about the current medications you’re taking, including all prescription and over-thecounter medications as well as herbs, vitamins and other dietary supplements.
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HOW TO MANAGE
YOUR HIP PAIN
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ealing with orthopedic and sports injuries often comes with the territory for football players, marathon runners, gymnasts and other Dr. Zachary competitive athletes. Shirley But you don’t have to be on the field or court to end up with a painful joint injury. Everyday types of joint injuries — from carrying a heavy load of groceries or taking a jog in your neighborhood — happen all the time. And they, too, can also lead to long-term problems if not treated properly. “Chronic hip pain can be caused by an injury, wear and tear, arthritis, or other problems,” said Dr. Zachary Shirley, an orthopedic surgeon with Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at West Hospital. “Unfortunately, the body’s ability to heal decreases with age, and these issues can compound over time, making it harder to recover from an injury.”
LISTEN TO YOUR BODY
Shirley says it’s important to listen to your body when it tells you to slow down. “People often want to push through the pain or mask it with anti-inflammatory drugs. However, ignoring chronic hip pain can lead to joint damage and more complicated treatment and recovery later,” Shirley explained. Joint disorders — especially hip disorders that can cause chronic hip pain — are among the top reasons for seeing a doctor.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
Joint injuries are bound to happen, whether you’re competing in sports or just
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taking a walk around the block. Minor hip joint injuries often can be treated at home with rest, ice, compression and elevation. But there are times when it’s important to see a doctor so you can avoid further damage to your hip and ensure you can heal properly. It’s smart to get medical help if you experience the following symptoms after injuring your hip: Instability or buckling of the hip Inability to bear weight on your hip Limited range of motion Numbness or tingling Persistent hip pain Significant swelling or tenderness Weakness or lack of strength while moving your hips and legs
CONSIDER HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
Hip arthritis is one of the most common causes of debilitating hip pain. If your doctor diagnoses you with severe hip arthritis, hip replacement surgery may bring relief and improve your quality of life. Advances in technology have made this procedure very common, and the recovery time has been reduced as well. Artificial joint durability — joints made of plastic, metal and/or ceramic — is also vastly improved, so most patients who receive a hip replacement will never need another one. “After recovering from hip replacement surgery, patients can get back to the activities they were missing in life with less pain and better function. Some of the happiest patients we see in the clinic are those who have had a hip replacement — and many of them wish they had made the decision to have surgery sooner,” Shirley added.
10 SIGNS IT MIGHT BE TIME TO CONSIDER HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY If you’re experiencing one or more of these signs, it might be time to talk with a specialist about hip replacement surgery: Sign 1: You have frequent or intense joint pain with activity. Sign 2: You have difficulty walking, sitting down or standing up. Sign 3: You suffer pain while at rest (day or night), or you experience pain that interferes with sleep. Sign 4: You have stiffness and swelling in the joint. Sign 5: Your symptoms have been long-lasting or progressively getting worse. Sign 6: You’ve tried rest and medications, but they haven’t worked. Sign 7: Tests show that osteoarthritis is causing wearand-tear damage to your joints. Sign 8: Steroid injections and medications no longer provide adequate pain relief. Sign 9: You’re suffering side effects from pain medications and/or are developing a tolerance to them. Sign 10: Hip pain is taking a toll on you physically and mentally.
Visit houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics-west or call 832.522.8280 to schedule an appointment with a specialist.
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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 Dr. Itai Ronen 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. Let’s explore some of the reasons why women 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. Itai Ronen, an obstetrician-gynecologist with the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at West Hospital. 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 high-risk category,” Ronen 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. “You will be monitored with imaging and other tests. A fetal ultrasound can find problems with baby’s developing brain, heart or other organs,” Ronen 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. Care at our level III neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is available for babies of all gestational ages should it be needed.
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: Vaginal bleeding or fluid discharge Sudden, severe headaches Cramping or pains in the lower belly Blurred vision or feeling dizzy Burning or pain when you urinate Sudden swelling of the face, hands and feet Fever or chills Feeling sad or like life isn’t worth living
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 West Hospital are available by visiting houstonmethodist.org/childbirth-west or calling 832.522.4200 for more information.
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Feeling sick?
GET CARE NOW
Houston Methodist offers safe, quick access to high-quality care — so you can feel better now. Sniffles got you down? Whether you’re suffering from the flu, a cold, a skin rash or even pink eye, we are here for you with a variety of ways to get care quickly, including:
VIRTUAL URGENT CARE 24/7 on-demand video visits through the MyMethodist app
SAME DAY CLINICS Same-day sick visits for many common health conditions
PRIMARY CARE GROUP Quick access to primary care doctors for existing patients
And, with enhanced safety measures in place at all our locations, you can rest assured your safety is our priority. houstonmethodist.org/care-options
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