FLIP THIS ISSUE!
Bayou
Catholic
Ba ou
wellness HOUMA, LA ~ APRIL 2015 ~ COMPLIMENTARY
Contents
On Our Cover
Very Rev. Jay L. Baker, V.G., is running incline sprints on a treadmill as part of his exercise routine. In his guest column, “Temples of the Holy Spirit,” Father Baker says “as the church has grown in her understanding of herself, a healthier more holistic approach has prevailed. It’s nothing new really. St. Paul taught the early Christians in Corinth that ‘the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.’” Cover photo by Lawrence Chatagnier
The impact of social media on students today
Behavior issues concerning children
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5 16
A healthy engagement
Who needs ear tubes?
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2
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Being proactive
Index to Advertisers 6th Annual Haiti Mission Golf Tournament ............................... 31 Advanced Eye Institute ........................... 9 Cardinal Place ....................................... 21 Cardiovascular Institute of the South ... 27 Coventry ................................................ 11 Daigle Himel Daigle .............................. 29 Family Doctor Clinic .............................. 21 Family Vision Clinic ............................... 25 Flynn Clinic of Chiropractic ..................... 9 Hagen Beyer Simon .............................. 33 Haydel Family Practice ......................... 17 Haydel Memorial Hospice .................... 15 Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness ............... 7 Headache & Pain Center ...................... 23 Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
Houma Digestive Health Specialists ..... 33 Houma Orthopedic Clinic ..................... 24 Houma Physical Therapy ...................... 27 Jones Insurance .................................... 19 LA Terre Physical Therapy, Inc. ............. 20 Office of Family Ministries ..................... 22 Oral Facial Surgery Center ................... 35 St. Joseph Manor .................................. 17 Sterling Wellness Solutions .................. 25 Terrebonne General Medical CenterHealthy Lifestyles Center .................... 3 Terrebonne Physical Therapy Clinic ..... 31 The Dermatology Clinic ........................ 32 Thibodaux Physical Therapy ................ 13
Getting the most out of sleep
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Our wellness center, TGMC Healthy Lifestyles Center is open and ready to handle all of your health and wellness needs. With workplace wellness, the latest fitness equipment and classes, health and sports performance, certified athletic trainers at our local schools, weight and diabetes management, and rehabilitation, TGMC is equipped and ready. Designated as a Level One WellSpot Louisiana facility by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, TGMC’s Healthy Lifestyles Center is up and running with complete services and staff ready to meet your every lifestyle need. For more information, contact us at (985) 873 - 4616
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Bayou Wellness
Guest Columnist
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Very Rev. Jay L. Baker, V.G.
It was a busy Monday morning, the First Week of Lent. The phone rang on my desk. I glanced up from the business at hand and saw the caller ID: it let me know that the call originated somewhere from deep within the heart of the diocesan Pastoral Center. Thinking that it must have been the bishop tending to some mission of mercy, seeking to comfort (his) people in an overlooked office, I answered. It was the Bayou Catholic seeking an article on wellness. Dagnabit, I should have let the call roll over to voicemail! I did mention that it was Lent, right? Before me stretch 40 days filled with hundreds of school children waiting in line to go to confession, 55 Masses to celebrate, six weeks of Gumbos to feed the poor by funding the Food Bank, 12 boxes of peanut butter Do-Si-Dos in limbo – not to mention the preparations for Holy Week and Easter. I thought: “Seriously?” My plate is already full. Resisting the knee-jerk reaction to say “No,” I simply offered: “Let me think about it.” Wellness, really? I’m certainly no expert … just a die-hard practitioner at best. Besides, it IS Lent: I could write it as a penance and fast from some of my precious free time! Then the more I thought about it, the more I came to realize that I should do or needed to do this article. God has a funny way with things, Job would say. Genesis 1:31 proclaims that after six days: “God looked at everything he had made, and found it very good.” That’s right: Everything! At the very dawn of Creation, God declared it “very good.” But in the fullness of time – when God sent Jesus into the
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
Temples of the Holy Spirit world – illness, disease and all manner of physical disability were considered to be punishments from God for sinning. Jesus railed against this way of thinking. In fact, through his miracles and healings he affirmed the goodness of the created world, the wholesomeness
LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC
of the human body. Jesus reinforced what Genesis proclaimed. But there came a time in the church when folks forgot all of that and opted instead for a dualism which, as an over simplification, would claim that the body is bad and only the spirit is good. It was usually expressed as “All visible reality is corrupted by sin. The world around us (including [the] human body and its desires) is distorted, insufficient, and evil.”
But … “an alternate good reality includes everything that is unseen (God, heaven, the human spirit). The goal within this dualistic view of reality is to escape the corrupted physical world and enter the perfect spiritual world.” (See more at: http://provoketive. com/2012/08/22/the-dangers-ofdualistic-christianity/#sthash. cuZU0q5Z.dpuf ). Not only was this a form of escapism, but it led to extreme mortifications of the flesh such as flagellation or even mutilation. As the church has grown in her understanding of herself, a healthier more holistic (read “holy”) approach has prevailed. It’s nothing new really. St. Paul taught the early Christians in Corinth that “the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 6:19). Truly, we human beings are called to strive for body/soul unity. Even as I write this, it occurs to me: “What might I say to a person who is sick or who labors under a chronic illness or who is differently-abled?” From my own personal experience, I would express the very same truth. About 18 months ago, I developed plantar fasciitis. While it has challenged my duration and distance, I still “run the race” by jogging most days of the week and/or running incline sprints on a treadmill. Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with partial A.I.N. paralysis in my dominant hand. Even though my handwriting has gotten shakier and I still fumble when picking up hosts, I still “fight the fight.” Heck, I have had two titanium screws in my knee for almost 40 years! All creation, including the human body: God declared it “very good.” Jesus repeated it. The Sprit invites us to enflesh it each day of our lives.
Impact of social media on students today
Guest Columnist
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Kayla Vicknair, LPC
Social media is a big part of our life today, in good and bad ways, especially for our students. For the majority of students today, social media is part of their daily routine. A large part of this generation’s social and emotional development is happening through the Internet and cell phones. There are many benefits, as well as harm, when it comes to technology use of our youth. Social media can be an important tool for our students as it gives them recognition, relationships, resources and referrals. They may use social media sites to create, collaborate and converse using the technology because it is easy and fun for them while providing opportunities to take part in activities that may not otherwise be possible. Social media allows
people to stay in touch with friends and family. Students are able to get to know other students at their school through social media and stay connected with people that share common interests. It has also become a way for the youth to present their talents to the rest of the world. Whether they are a musician, a painter, a writer, or a photographer, they are able to impress thousands of people by just uploading a photo of their work or by sharing links through social media sites. Most people these days, especially our youth, prefer to virtually connect with someone, rather than make an effort to go outside and meet new people. Someone who is really shy may be confident on the Internet. People find it easier to express themselves virtually than in reality. There are several reasons for this. One that comes to mind is that if somebody does not agree with your opinion virtually, you can simply block that person and never face him or her again. However, in reality, it doesn’t work this way. Normally, when someone intimidates you or you have a conflict with someone, you may have to confront them face to face. Most people like to avoid these situations as much as possible.
The biggest disadvantage of social media is online harassment and cyberbullying to embarrass or harm any person or community. In addition to physical and verbal bullying that may take place at school, cyberbullying in the form of harassing text messages or insulting posts on a student’s Facebook or Twitter accounts is now commonplace. Cyberbullying has the same effects on children even though it doesn’t take place in person. The emotional and psychological effects of cyberbullying are just as destructive. Kids that are bullied are likely to experience anxiety, depression and loneliness. It is important for parents to be aware of the kinds of risks that technology presents for children. Parents should discuss all the issues with their children openly and explain the correct use of technology so that they can see the positive results of socializing and prevent themselves from the possibility of getting harmed. The use of social media by our youth needs to be monitored and guided by the adults they look up to. (Kayla Vicknair, LPC, is a sophomore/junior counselor at Vandebilt Catholic High School in Houma.) www.bayoucatholic.com
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Bayou Wellness
Guest Columnist
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Deacon Lloyd Duplantis
In the early 1500s, Father Bernardino de Sahagun, a Spanish missionary and Aztec archeologist in the Yucatan, compiled some of the first records regarding the beneficial effects of cocoa from informants on chocolate during his missionary work among the Aztecs. One of his comments was that when cacao is taken as a beverage “it gladdens and refreshes the individual.” Potions that contained cacao (or cocoa which is the term used to refer to the heated or processed form of cacao that we buy in the stores and for all intent and purposes are the same) were widely used to treat a variety of diseases. Development of cocoa down to today 1577 – Francisco Hernandez, a naturalist and court physician to the King of Spain mentioned numerous nutritional and medical uses of chocolate as a beverage and noted, “A dose of cacao is useful for problems of the liver.” 1662 – Henry Stubbe, an English explorer, created his own recipe that consisted of cacao, anise seeds, nutmeg and cornmeal. He also noted that adding vanilla strengthens the heart. He recommended that people drink at least two cups a day. Chocolate was described as a nourishing and speedy refreshment while travelling or after hard work and exercise. It was soon after this period that American cookbooks began to promote chocolate as a nutritious breakfast food which has lasted to the current century. 1719 – D. de Quelus, a French scientist who wrote The Natural History of Chocolate, recommended drinking chocolate
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
Chocolate The wonderful superfood
for “exhausted spirits” and noted that one ounce of chocolate contains as much nutrition as a pound of beef. He began to create his own recipes, adding spices such as cinnamon. 1727 – Sir Hans Sloan, the physician for Queen Anne and King George II, would combine chocolate with milk to increase digestibility. This recipe was considered a health food, was noted to be “light on the
stomach” and was the beginning of hot chocolate as we have come to know it today. 1806 – On the Lewis and Clark expedition, Clark noted on Sept. 13th, “I felt very ill today. I drank a little chocolate which Mr. McClellen gave me and found great relief.” 1870 – Florence Nightingale took chocolate regularly and considered it a basic staple to treat the
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sick. She mentioned in her notes, “… soup, wine and chocolate could certainly save many lives.” 1895 to 1930s – Pharmaceutical companies began producing chocolate covered pills to disguise the bad taste of medicine. You may remember ‘Ex-Lax’ that was very popular for some time. 1983 – Dr. Andrew Weil concluded that chocolate was a drug. He was the director of Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona and has written many books on natural medicine and healing. He is noted as saying, “Chocolate has very little caffeine but it has lots of immune building properties.” He also comments that chocolate is a “mood-altering substance that can have strong effects on body and mind.” World renowned raw food specialist David Wolfe, in his book Naked Chocolate, discusses raw unprocessed chocolate and the extreme nutritional benefits of what he regards as the highest super food given to us on our planet. Chocolate is a universal word he says. Everyone knows
about chocolate. But there are two types of “chocolate”: 1) candy with chocolate in it that can have negative health consequences because of the fillers and sugar that are added. 2) natural dark chocolate that has health benefits for you.
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Let cocoa gladden and refresh your spirit
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Mention chocolate to anyone that does not know or understand the power of pure, natural cocoa and most likely they will comment about how much they love chocolate but that it makes them fat or that it is not good for them. People are
searching for healthy alternatives to satisfy their sweet tooth and at the same time not add unhealthy calories, pounds and guilt! Many are finding that dark chocolate can be an enjoyable solution to that dilemma. Of special note, almost every box of pure cocoa on the market has an enjoyable and healthy recipe for making a great cup of wholesome hot chocolate that you can adapt to your personal taste and preferences – so why settle for the instant kind? Follow Father Bernardino’s advice and let natural cocoa “gladden and refresh your spirit.” Thanks be to God that once again we find a dedicated missionary of the Catholic Church who in a quiet and unassuming way recorded for all times some simple health information that future generations would be able to use to make life healthier and more enjoyable for all! (Deacon Lloyd Duplantis is a retired pharmacist, speaker and author focusing on physical and spiritual health and wellness.)
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Bayou Wellness
Guest Columnist
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Dr. Kenneth Cruse
While many families believe that most of a physician’s time is spent with life threatening events, actually a great portion of my professional time involves counseling parents and families on behavior issues concerning children. Many times it is a simple question of how to appropriately parent children through their behaviors when they are disruptive. Other times it is a more serious behavior issue at school or home. Other times it is families concerned that their children need medication. These issues must first be approached psychosocially through discussion and counseling prior to considering pharmacological or medical treatment. There is no other time in the human life span that there is such rapid physical, emotional and cognitive growth than in childhood. Therefore, what might work at age three will have little use at ages eight or 15. In dealing with the behavior of children, it is important to look at the question in the milieu of the child’s age. This serves as a starting point. Complaint: “He is acting like a two year old!!” How old is he? If he is between the ages of 18 months and four years, then this behavior may be appropriate. Then it is the challenge to the parent to guide the child through his or her behavior. This is the time to teach consequences and the meaning of the word “no.” I advise parents that it might take repeating the lesson many times before it is learned. If the child is three or above then it might be considered abnormal and need further evaluation. Complaint: “He is terrorizing our home and school with aggressive behavior.” How old is he? If
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
r o i v a h Be issues concerning children
he is older than four, then there may be a problem causing the behavior. Some of these behaviors are caused by medical reasons such as sleep apnea or asthma. An example is a child who was presented to me with his mother over poor attention at school. Upon examination, he was noted to have very large tonsils and was experiencing sleep apnea. His tonsils were removed and he was able to function appropriately. Other disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Bipolar may also appear at this age. If suspected, proper diagnosis of these disorders requires
evaluation by a mental health professional who will work with a physician to determine treatment. Complaint: “She is acting out inappropriately with boys older than her.” How old is she? If she is a teenager, then she may need counseling on the risks of her behavior and the need to protect herself. This is where spiritual counseling can be useful to help instill meaning in a teen’s actions rather than mere physical satisfaction. If she is only five, then there is concern for some history of abuse or inappropriate behaviors and an aggressive evaluation will need to be
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initiated. The vignettes above illustrate the need to assess behavioral problems within the context of the age of the child. The solution to these problems begins with the parents. Parents are the first line of education for their children and can affect change for them. Health professionals can help empower parents to help their children to solve problems in an effective way. This may involve counseling if children have “tuned out” their parents. Finally, when all psychosocial issues have been addressed, then it is appropriate to consider medication. There are many medical issues that can affect behavior in children. It is important for the family and their physician to work together to determine when medication is necessary. Medicine cannot be used as a substitute for parenting or counseling. The lessons learned from these modalities will last much longer than the effects of the medicines. In summary, there are plenty of psychiatric diagnoses that present themselves in childhood and require medication, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disease, and Mood Disorders. However, there are also other disorders such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder that can only be treated by counseling and therapy. It is important for the family to work with their health care provider to determine the appropriate therapy when considering these diagnoses. (Dr. Kenneth Cruse has a private practice with offices in Houma and Thibodaux. He attended Loyola University in New Orleans, St. Louis University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO, and did his pediatric residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX.)
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Bayou Wellness
Diabetes: Know your ABCs
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Guest Columnist
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Mae Hitt, RN, CDE
“A” is for awareness and activity – Know the signs and symptoms of diabetes and know if there is a history of diabetes in your family. Feeling tired, going to the bathroom more often to urinate, thirsty all the time, or blurry vision? These are possible signs and symptoms of diabetes. If you answered yes to any of these, you will want to follow up with your doctor. Although these
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
symptoms could be caused by many different illnesses, you may want to be screened for diabetes. Staying active will serve two purposes: Being physically active everyday can help you manage your blood sugars. That’s because being active can improve your body’s ability to use insulin and helps you to maintain a healthy weight. Physical activity will help reduce two of the diabetes risk factors – being overweight and a sedentary lifestyle. Thirty minutes a day of physical activity is the recommendation, but if daily activity is new to you, begin with 15 minutes a day and gradually increase to thirty minutes. “B” is for blood sugar (glucose) checks – Initial blood sugar screening is recommended starting at age 45: if your results are normal, then you will want to get rechecked every three years. If you
have already been diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to monitor your blood sugars at home and record the results. These results should be brought with you to your doctor visits, so he can determine if your current treatment plan is working. “C” is for watching your carbohydrate intake – Normally, during digestion, the body changes carbohydrates (sugar and other starchy foods) and other foods into a form of sugar called glucose. Then, the blood carries the glucose to cells throughout the body. There, with the help of insulin (a hormone made by the pancreas), glucose is changed into quick energy for the cells to use or store for future needs. This process of turning food into energy is crucial, because the body depends on food for its every action. If a person has diabetes, something has gone wrong with
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the normal process of turning food into energy. It’s about eating healthy and portion control. Your doctor can refer you to a dietician and nutritionist, to work with you to teach you how to read food labels, count carbohydrates, and use the food exchange list. You don’t have to give up your favorite foods. It’s all about portion control and adding more vegetables to your meals. The second set of “ABC’s that you want to be aware of, if you have been diagnosed with diabetes, help to reduce your risk of developing long term complications from uncontrolled diabetes: “A” is for knowing your A1C results: The A1C blood test shows you what your blood sugar has been over the last three months. The A1C goal, set by the American Diabetes Association, is seven percent. The higher you are above seven percent, the greater your risk of causing harm to your heart, blood vessels, kidneys, eyes and feet. “B” is for keeping your blood pressure under control: The
blood pressure goal for most people is below 140/90. Your doctor may require you to maintain a lower pressure. Ask what is expected of you. High blood pressure makes your heart work too hard. It can cause heart attacks, strokes and
The process of turning food into energy is crucial kidney disease. If your doctor has prescribed medication to control your pressure, do not discontinue these medications without checking with your doctor. “C” is for keeping your
cholesterol numbers under control: LDL or “bad” cholesterol can build up and clog your blood vessels. It can cause a heart attack or a stroke. If your blood sugars are out of control, along with blood pressure readings that are high, and your cholesterol levels are high, you are at extreme risk of developing long term complications of diabetes. It is important that you keep your scheduled doctor appointments and follow his treatment plan, to help reduce the chances of you developing complications. Practicing the “ABCs” you learned in kindergarten, can play a role in your daily life today by serving as a reminder of what you can do to help prevent or prolong the start of diabetes or the possible long term effects of diabetes. For more information on diabetes contact the American Diabetes Association at 1(800) DIABETES (342-2383). (Mae Hitt, RN, CDE, is the community outreach director for Ochsner St. Anne Hospital in Raceland.)
www.bayoucatholic.com
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Bayou Wellness
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A healthy engagement Guest Columnist
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Melissa Robertson, PHR
According to legend, an engaged janitorial employee at NASA, when asked what he was doing, is said to have replied, “I’m helping put a man on the moon.” An engaged employee is one who is fully absorbed by and enthusiastic about their work and
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
so takes positive action to further the organization’s reputation and interests. In the most recent Gallop study, 32.9 percent of U.S. workers are considered to be engaged in the workplace. Alarmingly, this number is the highest seen in over three years and the majority of U.S. workers are not engaged. Research indicates a clear link between employee engagement and wellbeing with managers and company leaders serving as a connection between the two. Managers, supervisors and team leaders should know and understand their employees. Each and every interaction has the potential to influence his or her engagement level. An organization’s
leaders can substantially affect the employee’s engagement levels in the workplace. Here are a few strategies organizations can use to help transform employees into engaged employees. One strategy is using an employee engagement survey to ask the employees for their opinions. When doing so, it is important to remember that employees expect action to follow. These surveys should be specific, relevant and actionable for all employees at all levels of the organization. Organizations should focus on engagement at the local and organizational level. Change takes place at a local level, but only when the organization’s leaders set the tone from the top. To
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make a difference in their environment, managers and employees must feel empowered. Leadership should work with employees to identify barriers to engagement and opportunities to effect positive change. Selecting the right manager is also key to improving employee engagement. The best managers care about their staff’s success. Great managers empower their employees, recognize and value their contributions, and actively seek their ideas and opinions. These leaders seek to understand each person’s strengths and provide employees the opportunity to utilize their strengths. Companies should coach their managers and hold them accountable for their employee’s engagement level. These managers should lead by example. Managers, themselves, should be actively engaged in the company. Engagement goals should be set by management making sure these goals are realistic and meaningful using the employee’s day-to-day experiences. Employee engagement
should continue to be discussed on a regular basis. The best companies use every opportunity and communication channel to reinforce and recognize the organization’s commitment to employee engagement. If employees
Ask employees for their opinions truly are a company’s best asset, then leaders and managers should make caring for them a priority. By actively working to transform employees’ work experiences, employees will bring their best to work each day. In Gallup’s research, engaged
employees are less likely to be obese and to have chronic diseases. This finding is consistent across all factors, including age, BMI, and among people with or without chronic illnesses. Gallup’s research found engaged employees were 21 percent more likely to be involved in company based wellness programs. It is unclear which way the relationship between engagement in the workplace and healthy behavior goes. However, it is possible that workers without healthy lifestyles are more prone to illness, which then reduces their chance for being engaged at work or that those who are disengaged are less likely take part in health behaviors. Regardless, workplaces that actively seek to improve employee engagement may end up seeing an added benefit of better employee health, potentially reducing health care costs while increasing employee productivity. (Melissa Robertson, PHR, is the diocesan director of the Office of Human Resources and Employee Benefits.)
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Bayou Wellness
Guest Columnist
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Kim R. Thompson, LMSW, LCSW
Most of us are comfortable having open dialogue about our physical ailments and readily seek treatment for aches and pains; however, many people live in silence with mental and emotional pain. Ironically, mental and physical health are inextricably linked. One does not exist in a vacuum without the other. In fact, people with an anxiety disorder are three to five times more likely to go to the doctor and six times more likely to be hospitalized for psychiatric disorders than those without anxiety disorders. Similarly, psychosomatic (or medically unexplainable) concerns, like persistent gastrointestinal upset or headaches, are often the physical manifestations of mental stress and anxiety. Anxiety and mood disorders represent some of the most common and pestilent health concerns in our complex modern society. What were once considered ordinary human emotions, like nervousness and worry or melancholy and sadness, now seem to be more intense, more frequent, and more negatively impactful on our daily functioning. While depression and anxiety can feel quite different, many times they co-occur. Both disorders may develop from a complex set of risk factors, including genetics, environment, personality, and life events. The hopeful news is that once identified, there are some highly effective techniques that can help heal those who envision their lives happier and less worried. Facts about depression Depression affects approximately 14.8 million American adults and is the leading cause of disability for
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
Don’t be silent about
depression and anxiety
people aged 15 to 44.3. While depression can appear at any age, the median age at onset is age 32.5, and it affects women more than men. Signs of Depression Signs of depression often exist under the radar, and they can be confused with other disorders. The more obvious signs can include: n Difficulty focusing n Excess or insufficient sleep n Low energy, fatigue n Uncontrollable eating or disinterest in food n Non-typical irritability and aggression
n Isolation n Suicidal or homicidal thoughts n Reckless behavior and poor decision making n Increased alcohol or drug use n Unexplained aches and pains Other, more covert signs that may be more difficult to recognize as symptoms of depression: n Hopelessness and helplessness: feeling like it’ll never get better n Feeling worthless n Thinking distortions, such as polarized thinking. No one loves me. I screw up everything. n Disinterest in typical activities like church or social events
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In addition to the above symptoms, teenagers often show the following: n Cutting or other self-injurious behaviors n Grades dropping n Limiting or changing friendships n Quitting extracurricular activities n Staying in room; not engaging with family n Skipping school Facts about Anxiety Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million U.S. adults (18 percent of U.S. population). Subcategories of anxiety include social anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. They account for $42 billion yearly, or one-third the U.S.’s total mental health bill. More than $22.84 billion of those costs are associated with the repeated use of health care services, such as seeking relief for symptoms that mimic physical illnesses. Symptoms of Anxiety n Excessive nervousness and
worry n Sense of impending danger, panic or doom n Physical symptoms like increased heart rate and blood pressure, shaking, rapid breath, sweating, weakness, nausea n Negative, fear-based overthinking, rumination Treatments, Including the Healing Power of Spirituality Traditionally, health care has strived to diagnose and cure pain and illness – a “part” centered perspective. Today, truly informed care may emphasize the healing of the whole person – mind and body – not just the diseased part. Integrative treatment for anxiety and depression may include therapy, medication, and complementary techniques such as relaxation and spirituality. At first glance, spirituality and science may not seem to have much in common. But evidence-based research shows that spirituality can greatly impact one’s mental and physical well-being, including reduced risk, intensity, and duration of depressive episodes. One
particularly efficacious meditative practice called mindfulness has been scientifically proven via brain scans to restructure neuropathways to reduce stress responses, which can ultimately reduce negatively charged emotions. These types of interventions can also impact the intensity and perception of many physiological complaints, as well. Statistical information is excerpted from the Anxiety and Depression Association or America website at http://www.adaa.org/ about-adaa/press-room/factsstatistics. (Kim Richard Thompson is a licensed clinical social worker serving the Bayou Region. She has a background in non-profit management and program development through her directorship at Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center. Currently, she operates a private counseling business, as well as teaches at Nicholls State University in the department of Psychology.)
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Bayou Wellness
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The key to women’s health, wellness is
Being proactive Guest Columnist
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Rhona Alfred
The key to living a comfortable, healthy life is taking a proactive approach and staying on top of necessary healthcare visits. When it comes to women’s health, there is a host of screenings and check-ups for all stages of life. The time is now to take control of your health at any age. Although gynecological visits can be intimidating, regular
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
visits are imperative. Annual visits or wellness visits with an OB/ GYN help in promoting prevention practices, recognizing risk factors for disease, identifying existing medical problems, and establishing a clinician-patient relationship. “These visits are paramount for women maintaining a clean bill of health,” said Kerrie Redmond, director at Terrebonne General Medical Center’s Women’s Health Center. “Women at every stage of life need unique, tailor-made healthcare available to them, something we strive for at the Women’s Health Center.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends the first wellness visit for women should happen between the ages of 13 and 15 and should be maintained through life.
During a physical exam, a nurse will take height and weight measurements as well as check blood pressure and body temperature. With a nurse present, the gynecologist will perform a breast examination, feeling for signs of any lumps or abnormal changes. Then, the doctor will do a routine pap test, which screens for cervical cancer and a pelvic exam to make sure reproductive organs are normal. Without these tests, signs of medical issues and diseases go unnoticed. Getting a pap test is the best step to prevent cervical cancer. A doctor may recommend other screenings following your checkup, based on your overall health. These might include a pressure screening for heart disease, a diabetes screening,
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cholesterol check or mammogram. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. The key to survival is early detection. Yearly mammograms are recommended starting at the age of 40. However, breast cancer can affect women of all ages. Women should conduct regular self-breast examinations and report any breast change promptly to their doctor. Some women should be screened with MRI in addition to mammograms, because of their family history or other factors. Colonoscopies are recommended to start at age 50. Colonoscopy is used to look at the lining of your colon, which is useful in detecting colon cancer, polyps, inflammation and other problems of the gastrointestinal tract. To screen for colon cancer, colonoscopies are recommended every 7 to 10 years or more frequently, varying case by case. Osteoporosis, a bone disorder that thins bones, increasing likelihood for a break, also requires regular screenings. Due to hormonal changes that occur during menopause, women are more susceptible. Women lose bone mass faster in the years immediately after menopause than they do at any other time in their lives. Although there are no symptoms, a bone density test can confirm a diagnosis. Living in the south means a lot of time is spent outdoors, increasing risk of skin cancer. Women are
Regular ‘well women checkups’ and screenings are vital especially encouraged to get regular skin cancer screenings. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, has increased eightfold among women ages 18 to 39 since 1970. Good skincare should be part of a daily habit, meaning avoid direct sunlight, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen daily. If a freckle or a mole changes, a physician should be consulted immediately. In addition to screenings and regular checkups, women can maintain their health in many ways. Avoidance of cigarettes and smoke, daily exercise for least 30 minutes, maintaining a healthy weight, moderate alcohol intake, and a diet consisting of many fruits and vegetables can all lead to healthier lives for women. In our local community, women have access to worldclass physicians, specialists and the most advanced technology for women’s health conditions close to home. The Women’s Health Center at TGMC is a fully comprehensive and innovative medical service provider with women at the focus. Throughout the year, the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at TGMC offers free breast cancer screenings to uninsured women through their Early Bird mobile medical clinic. There are plenty of resources at the TGMC Healthy Lifestyles Center to improve health and vitality. Most importantly, women should feel empowered to take control of their health and wellness. (Rhonda Alfred is the director of marketing / marketing and planning at Terrebonne General Medical Center.)
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Bayou Wellness
Diocesan health screenings As part of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux’s wellness initiative, the Office of Human Resources sponsors an annual on-site wellness program for diocesan employees and their spouses/ dependents. Each participant receives a comprehensive blood panel, blood pressure checks, physical fitness tests, and one-on-one consultations to review results with a registered nurse and/or registered dietitian. This is the diocese’s12th year working with Sterling Wellness on this initiative.
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Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
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Bayou Wellness
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When to worry about a mole? Guest Columnist
I
Dr. P. Mark Neal
In the United States, one person dies from malignant melanoma every hour. When it is detected early and excised from the skin before it has spread anywhere else, there is an extremely high cure rate. Therefore, early detection of a changing or atypical new mole is extremely important. Melanocytes are the cells in your skin that make pigment, and melanoma is the result of these cells becoming cancerous. Sun damage increases the risk of these cells turning into cancer. Other risk factors for developing melanoma include: a fair complexion, greater than fifty moles, a personal or family history
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
of melanoma, or a personal history of atypical moles. About 50 percent of melanomas occur in preexisting moles, and the rest start as new growths. Learning the “ABCDEs of melanoma” will help you identify moles that are concerning for cancer. While these criteria are not perfect, they are very good at identifying atypical moles. A – Asymmetry: Normal moles look the same on both sides. If one side is different than the other, it
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LA Terre Physical Therapy, Inc. 116 Twin Oaks Dr. • Raceland, LA 70394
Phone: (985) 537-7012 • Fax: (985) 537-4145
Luke T. Kinnard, P.T. • Donald P. Kinnard, P.T. Marci D. Ellender, P.T. • Mark J. Kinnard, P.T. Annette Rodrigue, P.T.A.
may be concerning for an atypical mole. B – Border: A crisp, smooth border is usually present on normal moles. Atypical moles may have poorly defined or jagged borders. C – Color: Normal moles have a uniform pink or brown color. If moles have black, red, white, or multiple colors throughout, it may be concerning for melanoma. D – Diameter: Melanomas are usually larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed but they can be smaller. E – Evolving: If a mole is changing in size, shape or color, it could be an atypical mole. When you check your moles, look over your entire body in a mirror. Don’t forget to look in those hard to see places like your back, scalp, feet, etc. You can get a friend or relative to help! If you have any moles that you are worried about, see a board certified dermatolo-
Avoid tanning beds and always use sun protection gist to be evaluated. If your dermatologist is concerned about your mole, a simple in-office biopsy may be done to evaluate the mole under a microscope. The easiest way to treat a melanoma is to never get one. Avoid tanning beds and always use sun protection. Apply sunscreen every two hours when out in the sun and wear hats and long sleeves if possible. If a melanoma is caught before spreading elsewhere in the body from the skin, it can usually be cut out with an excellent chance of cure. If melanoma may have spread, the patient’s lymph nodes can be sampled to determine if it may have spread from the skin. If it has spread, there are multiple new chemotherapy medicines available to treat melanoma. (Dr. P. Mark Neal is a board certified dermatologist that practices in Houma, Morgan City and Galliano. He was raised in Thibodaux and went to college and medical school at LSU. He completed his dermatology residency training at Tulane where he served as chief resident.)
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FAMILY DOCTOR CLINIC Bruce E. Guidry, M.D. Brian J. Matherne, M.D. Nicole W. McKee, M.D. Andre F. Guidry, M.D. 291 Liberty Street • Houma, Louisiana Phone: (985) 868-7882 • Fax (985) 876-1700 Drug Screening Lab: M-F 8am-1pm, 2pm-4:30pm www.bayoucatholic.com
Bayou Wellness
Guest Columnist
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Quentin D. Falgoust, MD
Cataract surgery falls into two categories. For some, it’s a medical procedure in which the cloudy natural lens of the eye is removed and an intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted, followed by basic refractive care, which means glasses. For others - patients who want to function without glasses, or with less dependence on them (whether at distance or near) - it becomes refractive cataract surgery. Patients who want refractive cataract surgery usually, but not always, choose a premium IOL. Refractive laserassisted cataract surgery done in conjunction with a premium IOL gives the most
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Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
What is it? Refractive laser-assisted cataract surgery
effective visual outcome due to its surgical precision. How Does It Work? Refractive laser-assisted cataract surgery uses a femtosecond laser to perform surgical steps that were previously done manually. Compared to the manual technique, laserassisted surgery is the model of predictability and precision. At Advanced Eye Institute, we are proud to offer access to this quality level of care for our cataract patients. While manual cataract surgery is the most routinely performed surgery today, and generally has a safe and effective outcome when performed by a skilled surgeon, it still requires the use of hand-held instruments. Your surgeon must first make a two-step self-sealing incision through the cornea to gain access to the cataract. The surgeon’s goal is to make these incisions precise, but he must use a hand-held blade to create them. He must also use a hand-held instrument to create a circular opening through which to access the cataract in the lens capsule, which wraps the natural lens of the eye. This opening is called a capsulotomy. In most cataract surgeries, the IOL is then placed inside this “capsular bag,” and it is important to place the capsulotomy in an exact location, as well as maintain the integrity of this bag so that the IOL can be positioned correctly within it. During refractive laserassisted cataract surgery, your surgeon will use the laser to create both the two-step incisions and the capsulotomy. Clinical studies have shown that this opening is approximately 10 times more accurate when performed with the laser than by hand. The laser is able to perform the most challenging steps of a manual cataract surgery. Your surgeon can also use the laser for fragmentation of the cataract, enabling it to be removed more gently and with significantly less ultrasound energy. Using less ultrasound energy will allow quicker visual recovery, cause less ocular swelling or inflammation, and less incision disruption. Depending on your vision before
surgery, and your desired visual result after surgery, your doctor may recommend a treatment plan that could include creating ultraprecise incisions in the cornea to reduce corneal astigmatism. Corneal astigmatism is when the cornea is shaped more like a football than a basketball, and placing these astigmatism correcting incisions allows the steep part of the cornea to ‘relax’ and become more spherical in shape. This is important especially when placing a multifocal premium IOL, but can be equally important even with a monofocal (single-focus) IOL. Am I a candidate for the laser? If you are a cataract patient, you are a candidate for refractive laser-assisted cataract surgery, unless there are pre-existing ocular conditions that will affect your procedure. You must be able to lie flat on your back and motionless during the procedure. You must be able to tolerate local or topical anesthesia. Your doctor will discuss your candidacy in more detail during your cataract evaluation exam. There are also out-of-pocket expenses associated with use of the laser, as health insurance only covers the basic costs associated with traditional cataract surgery. Those who do not wish to invest out-of-pocket money in refractive laser-assisted cataract surgery can still feel confident about the manual procedure when performed by our skilled and experienced surgeons at Advanced Eye Institute. Both Dr. Quentin Falgoust and Dr. Richard Arceneaux perform refractive laser-assisted cataract surgery, as well as traditional cataract surgery and LASIK. To find out if you are a candidate, contact one of our offices to schedule an evaluation – (985) 446-0506 or (985) 879-2393, or visit us on the web at www. friendlyeyecare.com. (Quentin D. Falgoust, MD, is a LASIK and cataract specialist with over 30 years of experience in south Louisiana. He was the first LASIK surgeon in the Houma-Thibodaux area and has performed over 35,000 surgical procedures.)
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Mimi Wilson, OT, PA-C Jimmy N. Ponder, Jr., MD Adolfo Cuadra, MD
Your Spine & Pain Relief Specialists
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Bayou Wellness
Who needs ear tubes
?
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HOUMA
Orthopedic Dr. Christopher E. Cenac, Jr. • Dr. H. Lawrence Haydel, II Dr. Brett E. Casey • Dr. William Kinnard • Dr. Michael LaSalle
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www.hocla.com Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
Your Experienced Eye Care Professional
Guest Columnist
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Dr. Matt Beyer
What are ear tubes? Ear tubes, commonly called PE (pressure equalizing) tubes, are very small tubes placed in the eardrum in order to reduce ear infections and eliminate fluid from the middle ear. The middle ear is the space behind the eardrum where ear infections often occur. Patients with tubes generally do not feel the tube while it is in place. The tubes typically fall out of the eardrum after about one year and work their way out of the ear canal along with some ear wax. Who needs ear tubes? Ear tubes are most frequently placed in children with recurrent middle ear infections (otitis media) and hearing loss due to persistent fluid behind the eardrum. Middle ear infections are a frequent occurrence in young children and can become resistant to antibiotic treatment. If untreated, chronic ear infections can lead to permanent hearing problems and holes, cysts or scarring of the eardrum that can require extensive treatment or surgery. Ear tubes are very effective at reducing ear infections and eliminating fluid. Ear tube placement is the most common surgical procedure in children although tubes can be placed in anyone’s ear, regardless of age. Additionally, ear tubes can help speech and balance problems and also reportedly improve behavior and sleep problems associated with persistent ear infections. How are they placed? In children, tubes are usually placed during an outpatient procedure. Working through the ear canal under an operating microscope, a small incision is placed in the eardrum and fluid is suctioned from the space behind the eardrum. The tube is then placed in the incision and antibiotic drops are placed in the ear canal. The tube allows fluid to drain from the middle ear and air to enter the space essentially ‘drying up’ the infection or fluid. Describing this to patients and parents, I use the analogy of pulling the drain plug on a stagnant, green swimming pool. By getting rid of the water or fluid, there won’t be any infection. The procedure takes about five minutes and patients are discharged home within one to two hours. The procedure is extremely safe and there are relatively few complications. Some drainage may be seen from the ear after the procedure. Some physicians recommend keeping the ears dry while the tubes are in place. Older children or adults can undergo the procedure in the office using a local anesthetic. (Dr. Matt Beyer is a board certified otolaryngologisthead and neck surgeon – ear, nose and throat physician - with offices in Houma and Thibodaux. For appointments call 985-872-0423.)
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Healthy Employees. Healthy Bottom Line.
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Impacting Health & Wellness for the Employees of the Diocese of Houma‐Thibodaux Since 2003. www.bayoucatholic.com
Bayou Wellness
Guest Columnist
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J. Michael Flynn, DC
Do you accept the task to build a better you? It is a choice you get to make and it should not be a tough decision or one you choose to avoid. I was fortunate to hear the author Denis Waitley say, “There are two primary choices in life: to accept conditions as they exist, or accept the responsibility to change them. Keep those thoughts in mind as you get in a condition to build a better you. A couple of years ago two mothers in North Carolina decided not to accept conditions as they exist and took on the responsibility to change them. They discovered that their children, and other children, were eating a popular food that contained toxins. Kraft Macaroni and Cheese was first sold in 1937. The food contained the artificial food dyes Yellow 5 and 6 which are linked to being harmful to health. In other countries, food companies selling products that contain these two dyes must carry a warning that says, “May have adverse effect on activity and attention in children.” The two mothers gathered over 340,000 signatures on a petition asking Kraft to remove the two dyes from their macaroni and cheese – which they did. Recently, a 15 year old girl in Mississippi decided not to accept conditions as they exist in the two popular drinks she chose to quench her thirst – Gatorade and Powerade. She researched the ingredients and found that one of the chemicals in both drinks was brominated vegetable oil (BVO). She found out that BVO contained bromine which is also used as a flame retardant and could be harmful to health. BVO is banned throughout Europe and Japan and is found in 10 percent
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
Your task:
Build a better you of sodas in the U.S. Thanks to her efforts in getting over 200,000 signatures on a petition, PepsiCo and Coca-Cola changed their sports drink formulas, removing bromine. It takes courage to speak out and accept the responsibility to change things. Courage is thought of as the first and most important of the human virtues – because it is the virtue that guarantees all others.” The artist Mary Anne Radmacher said this, “Courage doesn’t always
roar. Sometimes courage is that quiet voice at the end of the day saying – I will try again tomorrow.” Finding the courage to build a better you is important. Just several months ago there were headlines in the paper “Fast food wants to change its image.” The article went on to say how McDonald’s and Taco Bell, as well as other fast food chains, want to shed their reputation for serving reheated meals that are loaded with chemicals. They were
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going to “rethink” their use of artificial preservatives and dyes to make their meal healthier. It is good news that food companies are reducing sugar, salt and artificial chemicals with the growing recognition of the harmful effect on health for obvious conditions like obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia and liver disease. There are chemicals, preservatives and other ingredients that should never be a part of our diets. Accepting the responsibility to build a better you includes breaking bad habits. Have the courage to read labels and know what you are eating. The more unprocessed your food is, the better. Fruits and vegetables are the foundation of nutrition to fuel our body. Plant foods are recognized as whole foods, loaded with antioxidants, fiber, minerals and vitamins. These foods are necessary for the full expression of life and health. The amount of water in the human body ranges from 50-75 percent. Water is two parts hydrogen and one part oxygen – it is vital for life. Yet, today experts are saying that as many as two-thirds of Americans are chronically dehydrated. The symptoms of chronic dehydration are lack of energy, joint pain and stomach disorders. Studies have shown that mental performance and physical coordination start to become impaired typically around one percent dehydration. Drink more water. Build a better you with exercise – get moving and do it regularly. Be proud to be known as an optimist
and live with faith, hope, in love and with joy. Think with an “I can” attitude. Researchers are proving the association between having a positive outlook on life and physical health – the link between optimism and well-being. Your task is to build a better world, God said. I answered, How? This world is such a large, vast place, so complicated and there’s nothing I can do. But God, in all his wisdom replied, “just build a better you” (Author Unknown). (Dr. Michael Flynn provides chiropractic health care for patients of all ages at the Flynn Clinic of Chiropractic, 567 Corporate Drive, Houma – (985) 2233811 – www.drmikeflynn.com.)
Houma Physical Therapy Southern Orthopedic & Sports Therapy Inc.
Mark J. Kinnard, P.T. • Donald P. Kinnard, P.T. Luke T. Kinnard, P.T. 901 Verret St., Ste. B • Houma, Louisiana 70360 Phone: (985) 879-4388 • Fax: (985) 868-3805
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Bayou Wellness
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Getting the most out of Guest Columnist
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Claire Kelbaugh
The Center for Disease Control has identified insufficient sleep as a public health epidemic. Over 60 percent of Americans suffer from poor sleep. While there is no magic number for the right amount of sleep, adults should aim for seven-eight hours of uninterrupted sleep nightly. Sleep needs vary by age, but also by each individual’s basal sleep
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
Sleep need. Basal sleep is the amount of sleep your body needs on a regular basis to function optimally. Skimping minutes off your nightly sleep can lead to sleep debt. This deficit has a cumulative efwfect on mental and physical fatigue. Research suggests accumulated sleep debt can be worked down, or “paid off” by adding an extra hour or two onto your nightly slumber. When sleep debt is not quickly repaid, sleep deprivation can lead to serious health issues. Physically, sleep deprivation can cause memory lapses, impaired immune system, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Safety can be compromised from impaired judgment, slower reaction time, decreased hand-eye coordination and alertness. How to Get More Sleep To get the most from your shut-
eye, keep your bedroom cool, around 65°. Your bedroom should also be free from any noise and light. Consider using blackout curtains, eye shades, ear plugs, noise machines, humidifiers or fans. Investing in a quality mattress, pillows, and sheets can be worthwhile. Additionally: n Limit caffeine and nicotine in the afternoon and evening hours. n Avoid large meals and spicy food before bedtime. n Exercise consistently, but not within two hours of going to sleep. n Spend time outside daily to produce melatonin and naturally regulate your sleep-wake cycle. n Avoid backlit screens from TVs, computers or cell phones close to bedtime. Wind down with a relaxing evening routine like a warm
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bath, reading a book, light stretching or drinking herbal tea. Techniques to Fall Back Asleep Few things are more frustrating that lying in bed wide awake at 2 a.m., knowing the challenges of the day ahead. Let your focus be more about relaxing rather than sleeping. Continue to cue your body to sleep by focusing on the feelings and sensations in your body. Remain in bed in a relaxed position. If you haven’t fallen back asleep within 15 minutes, get up and do a non-stimulating activity like read a book or sip herbal tea. Additionally: n Keep a notepad by your bed to jot down lingering thoughts and tasks so you don’t lay awake dwelling on them. n Manage irrational thoughts of worry and fear. n Visualize a peaceful setting such as a beach or mountain-scape. n Try progressive muscle relaxation exercises releasing tension from the tips of your toes to the top of your head.
The Sleep and Obesity Connection Sleep deprivation can affect hunger and satiety hormones, altering cravings, eating habits and make controlling portions difficult. Sleeping less could also trigger the body to store more fat, ultimately leading to weight gain. According
Sleep is a necessity, not a luxury to the National Sleep Foundation, those who sleep four or less hours a night are 67 percent more likely to become obese and those who sleep six or less hours a night are 27 percent more likely to become obese. Most patients with sleep apnea have a large neck circumference or are obese. Sleep apnea is a condition
characterized by the absence of breath for 10-20 seconds that can occur multiple times a night. One of the most impactful ways to deal with sleep apnea is to lose excess weight and exercise at a moderateintensity for 30 minutes most days of the week. In many cases, sleep apnea can be cured by returning to a healthy weight. Sleep is a Necessity, Not a Luxury If you’ve tried to change your routines, habits and sleep hygiene without success, it may be time to seek professional help. There are over 80 types of sleep disorders, and many people have more than one sleep problem. We owe it to ourselves to nurture our bodies with rest. Help shift the stigma that eight hours of sleep is a luxury afforded by few and where people pride themselves with getting by on little sleep. Instead, regard sleep as a necessity that is equally as important to a healthy life as nutrition and exercise. (Claire Kelbaugh is president of Sterling Wellness Solutions.)
Leslie Daigle, PT • Eddie Himel, PT, DSc., OCS, Cert. MDT John Daigle, PT, OCS, COMT • Tracy Peltier, PT, CMT Steven Landry, OT, CHT • Sawyer Triche, PT, DPT • Frannie B. Allen, PT, DPT
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Bayou Wellness
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Taking advantage of employer-sponsored retirement plans
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Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)’s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you’re not participating in it, you should be. Once you’re participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it.
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
Understand your employersponsored plan Before you can take advantage of your employer’s plan, you need to understand how these plans work. Read everything you can about the plan and talk to your employer’s benefits officer. You can also talk to a financial planner, a tax advisor, and other professionals. Recognize the key features that many employer-sponsored plans share:
n Your employer automatically deducts your contributions from your paycheck. You may never even miss the money—out of sight, out of mind. n You decide what portion of your salary to contribute, up to the legal limit. And you can usually change your contribution amount on certain dates during the year. n With 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), SARSEPs, and SIMPLE
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plans, you contribute to the plan on a pretax basis. Your contributions come off the top of your salary before your employer withholds income taxes. n Your 401(k), 403(b), or 457(b) plan may let you make after-tax Roth contributions—there’s no up-front tax benefit but qualified distributions are entirely tax free. n Your employer may match all or part of your contribution up to a certain level. You typically become vested in these employer dollars through years of service with the company. n Your funds grow tax deferred in the plan. You don’t pay taxes on investment earnings until you withdraw your money from the plan. n You’ll pay income taxes and possibly an early withdrawal penalty if you withdraw your money from the plan. n You may be able to borrow a portion of your vested balance (up to $50,000) at a reasonable interest rate. n Your creditors cannot reach your plan funds to satisfy your debts. Contribute as much as possible The more you can save for retirement, the better your chances of retiring comfortably. If you can, max out your contribution up to the legal limit. If you need to free up money to do that, try to cut certain expenses. Why put your retirement dollars in your employer’s plan instead of somewhere else? One reason is that your pretax contributions to your employer’s plan lower your taxable income for the year. This means you save money in taxes when you contribute to the plan—a big advantage if you’re in a high
Terrebonne Physical Therapy Clinic LA Terre Physical Therapy, Inc.
Donald P. Kinnard, P.T. Mark J. Kinnard, P.T. Luke T. Kinnard, P.T. Marci D. Ellender, P.T. 901 Verret Street Houma, LA 70360-4637 Phone: (985) 868-3806 Fax: (985) 868-3805
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www.bayoucatholic.com
Bayou Wellness
Retirement tax bracket. For example, if you earn $100,000 a year and contribute $10,000 to a 401(k) plan, you’ll pay income taxes on $90,000 instead of $100,000. (Roth contributions don’t lower your current taxable income but qualified distributions of your contributions and earnings—that is, distributions made after you satisfy a five-year holding period and reach age 59-1/2, become disabled, or die—are tax free.) Another reason is the power of taxdeferred growth. Your investment earnings compound year after year and aren’t taxable as long as they remain in the plan. Over the long term, this gives you the opportunity to build an impressive sum in your employer’s plan. You should end up with a much larger balance than somebody who invests the same amount in taxable investments at the same rate of return. For example, you participate in 32 your employer’s tax-deferred plan (Account A). You also have a taxable investment account (Account B). Each account earns eight percent per year. You’re in the 28 percent tax bracket and contribute $10,000 to each account at the end of every year. You pay the yearly income taxes on Account B’s earnings using funds from that same account. At the end of 30 years, Account A is worth $1,132,832, while Account B is worth only $757,970. That’s a difference of over $370,000. (Note: This example is for illustrative purposes only and does not
represent a specific investment.) Capture the full employer match If you can’t max out your 401(k) or other plan, you should at least try to contribute up to the limit your employer will match. Employer contributions are basically free money once you’re vested in them (check with your employer to find out when vesting happens). By capturing the full benefit of your employer’s match, you’ll be surprised how much faster your balance grows. If you don’t take advantage of your employer’s generosity, you could be passing up a significant return on your money. For example, you earn $30,000 a year and work for an employer that has a matching 401(k) plan. The match is 50 cents on the dollar up to 6 percent of your salary. Each year, you contribute 6 percent of your salary ($1,800) to the plan and receive a matching contribution of $900 from your employer. Evaluate your investment choices carefully Most employer-sponsored plans give you a selection of mutual funds or other investments to choose from. Make your choices carefully. The right investment mix for your employer’s plan could be one of your keys to a comfortable retirement. That’s because over the long term, varying rates of return can make a big difference in the size of your balance. Note: Before investing in a
mutual fund, carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the fund. This information can be found in the prospectus, which can be obtained from the fund. Read it carefully before investing. Research the investments available to you. How have they performed over the long term? Have they held their own during down markets? How much risk will they expose you to? Which ones are best suited for long-term goals like retirement? You may also want to get advice from a financial professional (either your own, or one provided through your plan). He or she can help you pick the right investments based on your personal goals, your attitude toward risk, how long you have until retirement, and other factors. Your financial professional can also help you coordinate your plan investments with your overall investment portfolio. Finally, you may be able to change your investment allocations or move money between the plan’s investments on specific dates during the year (e.g., at the start of every month or every quarter). Know your options when you leave your employer When you leave your job, your vested balance in your former employer’s retirement plan is yours to keep. You have several options at that point, including: n Taking a lump-sum distribution. This is often a bad idea, because you’ll pay income taxes and possibly a penalty on the amount you withdraw. Plus, you’re giving up continued tax-deferred growth.
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For All Your MEDICAL & COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY Dr. Mark Neal ~ Dr. William Wilder HOUMA 12 Professional Dr. Houma, LA 70360 Mon.-Fr. 9-12 & 1-5 985.868.1810
HOUMADERMCLINIC.COM Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
MORGAN CITY CUT OFF/GALLIANO 1713 Sixth St. 195 W. 134th St. Morgan City, LA 70380 Cut Off, LA 70345 Tues. 10-12 & 1:30-5 Wed. 1-5 Thurs. 9-12 & 1-5 985.632.8880 985.385.5077
n Leaving your funds in the old plan, growing tax deferred (your old plan may not permit this if your balance is less than $5,000, or if you’ve reached the plan’s normal retirement age—typically age 65). This may be a good idea if you’re happy with the plan’s investments or you need time to decide what to do with your money. n Rolling your funds over to an IRA or a new employer’s plan if the plan accepts rollovers. This is often a smart move because there will be no income taxes or penalties if you do the rollover properly (your old plan will withhold 20 percent for income taxes if you receive the funds before rolling them over). Plus, your funds will keep growing tax deferred in the IRA or new plan. (This information was prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. and has been made available for Voya Financial Advisors’ representatives for distribution to the public for educational information only. Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. is not affiliated with nor controlled by Voya Financial Advisors. The opinions/views expressed within are that of Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. and do not necessarily reflect those of Voya Financial Advisors or its representatives. In addition, they are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Neither Voya Financial Advisors nor its representatives provide tax or legal advice. You should consult with your financial professional, attorney, accountant or tax advisor regarding your individual situation prior to making any investment decisions.)
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Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Specialists
DAVID L. HAGEN, M.D. ~ MATTHEW G. BEYER, M.D. ~ CHAD M. SIMON, M.D. Ear • Nose • Throat & Sinus Surgery Endoscopic & Balloon Sinus Surgery • Sleep Apnea/Snoring Hearing & Balance Disorders • Hearing Aids • Thyroid Surgery
Adult and Pediatric 505 Dunn Street • Houma, LA 70360
(985) 872-0423
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(985) 448-1030
www.bayoucatholic.com
Bayou Wellness
Leg ulcers and veins
A vascular problem Guest Columnist
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Bevi Olivier
Connie Townsend, 67, suffered from a painful, large ulcer on her left leg for more than a decade. She kept her leg wrapped constantly due to her ulcer leaking, and she had it re-bandaged every week. As the owner of Sportsman’s Paradise Restaurant and Hotel in Chauvin, she spends most of her workday on her feet. “Being on my feet all day caused a lot of pressure, and the bandage was hot and aggravating,” she said. “The ulcer still leaked and the bandage would always be wet.” Townsend’s ulcer would not close up, even after three surgeries and wound care treatment for 15 years. “Imagine—you can’t wear heals or closed toe shoes because of the bandages,” she said. “I had lost hope that it would ever heal.” Following a referral, Townsend visited Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS), desperate for help to improve her quality of life. Dr. Anil Chagarlamudi, cardiologist at CIS Houma, reviewed the condition of Townsend’s leg. “Dr. Anil said he could help me. I never thought I would have hope again,” she said. In addition to her ulcer, Townsend’s leg was swollen and it felt heavy. She was suffering from a condition called venous reflux disease. Like Townsend, about 15 percent of people in America have venous reflux disease, which is
Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2015
caused by diseased or abnormal veins. When veins become damaged or weak, blood flows backward causing the veins to stretch, swell and twist. Unfortunately, only three percent of those with venous disease have sought or received treatment that could greatly improve their lifestyle.
Dr. Anil Chagarlamudi
Townsend received one radiofrequency/laser venous ablation treatment on her left leg at the CIS Houma clinic. This non-surgical, minimally-invasive procedure is performed in the clinic and uses radiofrequency or laser energy to apply heat to the vein through a thin catheter. It essentially “welds”
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the vein closed and prevents reflux. “It was less than an hour for one treatment,” she said. “I was awake the whole time, and they asked me how I was doing and feeling during it.” Since having the treatment, Townsend has seen a significant improvement in her leg. “I was so excited after the first week,” she said. “In just seven days, my sore had gone down to the size of the head of a pencil. I couldn’t believe it!” She is very grateful to both Dr. Chagarlamudi and the staff at CIS. “The staff is amazing,” she said. “They explain everything, and they are so nurturing, calming and professional.” Dr. Chagarlamudi said that the treatment has greatly improved Townsend’s quality of life, especially her ability to stand for longer periods of time. Many people do not realize that ulcers are a symptom of a serious vascular problem that may just begin with the appearance of unsightly veins. “Diseased veins need to be treated for more than just cosmetic reasons,” he explained. “Venous disease can be a serious condition that requires treatment before it worsens, leading to ulcers or severe impairment of daily activities.” One of the most common and visible signs of venous disease is spider veins, which appear as small, purplish or blue clusters of veins on the leg. Varicose veins are larger, bluish veins which may look enlarged. Venous disease may not present itself until leg pain or skin problems emerge. Symptoms may include the following:
n Visible varicose or spider veins n Swelling or heaviness in legs n Leg pain or cramping n Discoloration of skin n Dry or weeping eczema n Leg ulcers The disease can progressively get worse over time due to the pressure created by the backflow of blood in the legs. This may lead to additional spider and varicose veins, and in some cases can lead to swelling and venous ulcers and wounds. If left untreated, venous disease can markedly affect quality of life by
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There is hope for many people because of this procedure. Now I can wear any shoes I want to wear, and that is a miracle in itself!
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reducing a patient’s ability to sleep, walk or sit/stand for long periods of time due to severe symptoms of the legs. Even if only spider veins are present, it is important to consult a vein specialist to determine the problem so that it can be treated. Based on her experience, Townsend encourages others with ulcers to see a cardiovascular vein specialist. “Ulcers and sores are very painful, and I wasn’t sure who could help me. Now I know I just needed to call CIS for an appointment to see a cardiologist.” “This has been a miracle,” she
added. “There is hope for many people because of this procedure. Now I can wear any shoes I want to wear, and that is a miracle in itself!” If you think you may have venous disease, or if you would like to learn more about the vein treatments provided by CIS, please call 1 (800) 445-9676 or visit www.cardio.com/vein. (Bevi Olivier is the public relations and events coordinator for the Cardiovascular Institute of the South.)
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1608 Polk Street • Houma, LA 70360-6011 Houma 985.879.1972 Thibodaux 985.447.2671 Toll Free 800.993.5566 Morgan City 985.702.1225
Christopher J. Saal, D.D.S., M.D. Diplomate American Board of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery
David G. Baughman, D.D.S., M.D. Diplomate American Board of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery
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