A person with seasonal allergies is sensitive to allergens that are only around at certain times of the year. Plant pollens from blooming trees and grasses are the classic examples. Dr. Daniel Strigenz, an otolaryngologist (ENT) at Houston Methodist ENT Specialists at The Woodlands, has five tips to help you prepare for seasonal allergies.
1. KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO PREPARE
There are three different allergy seasons: spring, summer and fall. Each of these seasons is marked by a different type of plant pollen being released. “Depending on which type of pollen you’re sensitive to, you may experience allergies during one, two or even all three of these seasons,” noted Strigenz. “Know your history of when your symptoms traditionally act up the most.”
2. TAKE STEPS TO REDUCE YOUR POLLEN EXPOSURE
“Staying indoors is the best way to avoid seasonal allergy symptoms,” said Strigenz. “It is difficult, but at least take steps to limit your exposure.”
Tips to limit pollen exposure:
■ Check the pollen count using your weather app and plan your day accordingly.
■ Avoid driving with your windows rolled down, especially in the mornings.
■ Wear a mask if you need to be outdoors.
■ Set your car’s AC to recirculate the air, rather than drawing it from the outside.
■ Consider changing clothes and showering when you arrive home after being outdoors.
3. PRETREAT SYMPTOMS IF YOU’RE A REGULAR SUFFERER
Start with an over-the-counter nasal steroid spray regimen or take a daily nondrowsy antihistamine when you know your allergy season is approaching.
“If you prefer a natural remedy for allergies, try frequent saline rinses,” offered Strigenz. “Flushing your nose with a saline wash can help remove some of the pollen that gets deposited in the nasal cavity, decreasing the possibility of your allergies being triggered.”
4. KNOW THE ALLERGY SYMPTOMS
As soon as you notice these symptoms, it’s time to start treating them:
■ Runny nose
■ Nasal congestion
■ Itchy eyes
■ Sneezing
■ Scratchy throat
■ General fatigue
■ Headaches
5. TAKE AN ANTIHISTAMINE
Allergies can hit even if you’re doing everything right. Nondrowsy oral antihistamines are a preferred method of treatment. “These medications start
to act within a few hours and target the histamine response itself,” explained Strigenz. “They are an excellent initial option for treatment of allergy symptoms.”
While nasal steroid sprays are also good options for treatment, he cautioned against using nasal decongestant sprays, as you can become dependent, and they can cause rebound congestion. “Your congestion actually gets worse as your system becomes reliant on the spray,” noted Strigenz.
If your seasonal allergy symptoms interfere with your quality of life and persist despite over-the-counter medications, more effective prescription nasal sprays are available. Allergies can also mimic other health issues.
“ The symptoms of congestion, drainage and facial pressure can be a bad bout of allergies or a sinus infection. If you’re not getting better in 7 to 10 days, it’s time to see a doctor,” Strigenz added. “ There are new in-offic procedural treatments that may help with allergy symptoms. For instance, we can try to calm down overactive nerves in the nose that stimulate mucous production and shrink congestion.” •
Your Houston Methodist primary care provider (PCP) is a great starting point for your seasonal allergy questions. Your PCP may refer you for chronic issues to one of our board-certified ENT specialists. To learn more, visit houstonmethodist.org/spg/ent/the-woodlands or call 936.270.4010 .
A gynecologist is an important partner in every woman’s health — whether a young adult, postmenopause or anywhere in between. Still, you may wonder which symptoms and issues warrant seeing one.
Dr. Terri Scott, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Houston Methodist Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates at The Woodlands, recommends scheduling an appointment with a gynecologist if you experience any of the following signs.
1. HEAVY OR PAINFUL PERIODS
“If you have heavy bleeding or severe cramping, it would be wise to seek medical care as there are many treatment options for patients,” Scott noted.
Two of the most common causes of heavy and painful periods are uterine fibroids and endometriosis. Fibroids are benign tumors that grow within the uterus and endometriosis is a condition where uterine tissue is implanted outside the uterus in the pelvis.
2. IRREGULAR VAGINAL BLEEDING
Though not always cause for alarm, you should evaluate the following bleeding patterns:
■ Unexplained bleeding between periods
■ Bleeding while pregnant
■ Bleeding after menopause
3. PELVIC PAIN
Scott emphasizes that it’s time to see your gynecologist if you’re experiencing pelvic pain over several days or pain with intercourse.
Pelvic pain with nausea, vomiting and fever can be signs of an infection or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID develops in the uterus and fallopian tubes. To help preserve fertility, the infection must be treated immediately with an IV or oral antibiotics.
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can cause severe pelvic pain, but can easily be diagnosed with the use of pelvic ultrasound. “Don’t wait until the pain is unbearable,” Scott added.
4. MENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of menopause can develop when women enter their 40s. Sometimes hot flashes and night sweats are unbearable. Scott recommends scheduling a gynecology appointment to discuss options for minimizing menopause symptoms.
If you detect a lump during a self-breast exam or experience breast pain, Scott recommends seeing a gynecologist to help coordinate an exam with breast imaging, such as a mammogram or ultrasound.
There are many options available for women to help prevent pregnancy. A gynecologist is a great resource for reversible, longacting contraception, oral contraceptives and permanent options.
A well woman exam is an annual check-up with your gynecologist and includes a breast exam, pelvic exam and Pap test. Depending on your age, this exam could include recommended screening guidelines and risk for gynecologic issues.
Ths is also a good time to talk to your doctor about any other concerns you are experiencing, such as painful intercourse, vaginal dryness or bladder issues.
“Your well woman exam is a great way to be proactive and stay on top of your health,” Scott said. •
At The Woodlands, new moms and moms-to-be can fi nd support to help prepare for labor, delivery, and beyond. The Childbirth Center offers breastfeeding classes before delivery, a full range of lactation services, basic and advanced newborn care, and complete newborn health screenings.
“Breastfeeding is a special occurrence between mother and baby. And it is a bond that can take time to establish,” said Dr. Marianne Peck, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital.
Visit Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at The Woodlands at houstonmethodist.org/childbirththewoodlands or call 713.790.3333 to learn more.
To schedule an appointment with Houston Methodist Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates near you, visit houstonmethodist.org/spg/womens-services or call 936.270.4749 for Conroe or 936.270.3662 for The Woodlands.
Severe joint pain can keep you from enjoying life to the fullest. But thanks to advances in less invasive replacement surgery, you can get back to an active lifestyle with less downtime than you might think.
“Incisions have gotten smaller; and approaches are different,” explained Dr. John Fackler, an orthopedic surgeon at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at The Woodlands. “We have better techniques to protect the healthy soft issue around the joint.”
Joints are the parts of the body where two bones meet, enabling movement and stability. If a joint is damaged, it can cause signifiant pain and limited mobility that can negatively impact the quality of life. Hip and knee replacements are the most commonly performed joint replacements, but replacement surgery can be performed on other joints, as well, such as the ankle, wrist, shoulder and elbow.
Common reasons why joint pain develops include:
1. Arthritis
2. Overweight or obesity
3. Past injury
Without treatment, joint pain gets worse over time. Having surgery can seem daunting, but the results can be life-changing. Advancements in technology and techniques have made joint replacement procedures much safer and more effective, with quicker recovery times.
“Knee replacement surgery has sort of a stigma that it’s too painful and hard to go through,” Fackler said. “I tell patients it’s more like knee resurfacing than replacement.”
Essentially, joint replacement is more like joint resurfacing. When a joint becomes worn out, the nerve endings in the bones become exposed, causing pain. The surgeon places a new surface on the end of the bones, like a cap that is designed to cover up and protect the nerve endings.
“We don’t remove your joint or remove a huge section of it,” said Fackler. “We remove a few millimeters from each side and then cover it with a cap to reduce pain.”
However, it is important to have realistic expectations about living with the updated joint. Fackler explained, “Your knee won’t be what it was when you were 30. But if you are looking for a functional knee with less pain, you’re going to be happy with the results.”
There are several reasons to consider joint replacement surgery, including:
1. Joint replacements are long-lasting. In many cases, people can enjoy improved joint function and relief for upwards of 20 years. “Over 80% of patients who have undergone surgery are very happy with their knee replacement and would do it again,” Fackler expressed.
2. Minimal recovery time. Advances in surgical techniques have led to the development of less invasive joint surgery options that offer quicker recovery times and reduced risk of complications compared to traditional surgery.
3. Increase your activity. New technology and approaches make joint replacement outcomes feel more natural. Most patients who have joint replacement surgery can get back to low-impact activities, such as swimming or walking within four to six weeks.
Houston Methodist developed a Rapid Recovery Program to streamline healing after joint replacement surgery. Patients who are relatively healthy and have good family support are eligible to go home on the same day as the surgery. With telemedicine connectivity, patients can attend follow-up visits with their care team from the comfort of home.
For inpatient procedures, many patients are up and walking within hours after surgery. Whether you recover in the hospital or at home, your care team is dedicated to your success.
“ The key to success is getting into physical therapy right away,” Fackler said. “Patients who are motivated to do well and get back to an active lifestyle will do so quickly. Our team — including surgeons, therapists and nurses — support people and encourage them along the way to get back to where they want to be.”
The s ooner you talk to an orthopedic specialist about your persistent joint pain, the quicker you’ll be back to enjoying life to the fullest. •
Word games and puzzles aren’t just a source of entertainment. They also bring a sense of accomplishment if you complete a challenging one. Some may argue that no board game collection is complete without Scrabble, and newspapers have included crossword puzzles for decades.
But could word games be a form of exercise for your brain, helping it stay healthy and young by regularly challenging it?
“ There is no clear evidence that proves word games have any substantial impact on preventing memory loss or dementia, but I definitely recommend word games, puzzles or other thoughtprovoking activities over watching TV,” said Dr. Yuvraj Heir, a neurologist at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital. “Anything that challenges your mind or memory is healthy.”
While exercising your mind may not have known benefits to your brain health, Heir added that there are steps you can take between games to help keep your brain young as you age.
“Studies consistently show that physical activity is incredibly benefical for the brain,” Heir noted. “It can improve cognition, memory or sleep as well as reduce anxiety and depression — all things that promote brain health.”
People who make exercise a habit also have a reduced risk of dementia. In fact, one study found that people who are inactive are almost twice as likely to experience subjective cognitive decline — worsening or more frequent confusion or memory loss — as those who exercise regularly.
Habitual exercise also reduces a person’s risk of stroke — when blood flw to the brain is blocked. Stroke can cause brain damage in just minutes and is one of the leading causes of death in the U.S.
“Your heart supplies your brain with blood, so keeping your brain young also means keeping your heart and blood vessels healthy,” Heir added.
If your goal is to take steps to benefit your brain health, Heir has some specific avice:
1. Make exercise a habit. Aim to get about 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week but know that even just getting 10 or more minutes makes a difference.
2. Eat healthy. Minimize processed foods, added sugars and unhealthy fats. Prioritize eating healthy portions of whole foods (vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and healthy fats).
3. Focus on mental health. Strive to keep a positive, optimistic outlook, take steps to reduce unnecessary stress, and don’t ignore the signs of anxiety or depression. •
If you or a loved one has unexplained symptoms that could be related to the brain or nervous system, your doctor may recommend a neurological exam with a specialist. Here are a few signs that it’s time to see a neurologist:
■ Chronic or severe headache
■ Chronic pain
■ Dizziness
■ Numbness or tingling
■ Movement problems
■ Memory problems or confusion
A neurologist can help identify the cause of the symptoms and create a treatment plan for both common and complex neurological conditions. Some neurological conditions include epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s disease.
Our team at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital consists of neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, neuro-ophthalmologists and other specialists who work collaboratively to provide you with exceptional care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit houstonmethodist.org/ woodlands-neuro or call 936.270.3900
Colorectal cancer is a disease that affects the large intestine (colon) and the rectum. Despite being one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide, many people are still unaware of the importance of early detection and treatment.
If detected early, colorectal cancer has a high survival rate. However, if it is not detected until it has progressed, the chances of survival decrease signifiantly. Ths is why early detection is key.
Colorectal cancer attacks the large intestine — the long digestive organ that removes solid waste from the body. The majority of colorectal cancers start as polyps.
If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away.
■ Abdominal pain, bloating or cramps
■ Bright red or black stool
■ Changes in bowel habits, such as new constipation or diarrhea
■ Exhaustion
■ Unexplained weight loss
“Oftentimes people dismiss the symptoms of colorectal cancer until it’s too late,” said Dr. Jean Knapps, colorectal surgeon at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital. “They attribute blood loss to a hemorrhoid or something they ate. But when symptoms become more chronic, you need to get checked out by your doctor.”
Screening methods, such as colonoscopies, can detect cancer in its early stages and increase the chances of successful treatment. The American Cancer Society recommends that most individuals begin screening around age 45. However, if you are at higher risk or have a family history of colorectal cancer, you should start earlier.
There are several types of screening tests available. Talk to your doctor about the best option for you and your screening schedule. Screening options include:
■ Colonoscopy, this is the most common test. While under sedation, a small camera is used to examine the inside of your colon and look for polyps or any other abnormalities.
“Colonoscopies also serve as a preventative measure,” Knapps explained. “If we fid something like a polyp, we can remove it immediately.” It is a fairly simple procedure that takes under 30 minutes to complete. “The worst part of the procedure is the preparation,” Knapps said. “You go home the same day and can resume your normal diet and activities right away.”
■ Stool DNA test, a sample of your stool will be examined for genetic mutations and blood products in the stool.
■ CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy), X-rays and a CT scan are used to make pictures of the inside of the colon and rectum.
■ Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT), a sample of your stool will be examined for hidden blood.
■ Flexible sigmoidoscopy, much like a colonoscopy, doctors use a device to examine inside the rectum and lower colon.
“A 20-minute procedure can prevent a lot of grief down the road,” Knapps emphasized. •
Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital currently holds a coveted accreditation from the Commission on Cancer (CoC). Accreditation by the CoC provides a seal of approval that a program is providing highquality, comprehensive cancer care and is committed to improving the lives of those affected by cancer.
Houston Methodist The Woodlands is dedicated to improving its quality of patient care through various cancer-related programs, including prevention, early diagnosis, cancer staging, optimal treatment, rehabilitation, life-long follow-up for recurrent disease and end-of-life care.
