Health Journal Spring 2011 by Journal Inc

HealthJournal NORTH MISSISSIPPI

SPRING 2011

A healthy and happy pregnancy

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The North Mississippi Health Journal is a publication of the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal.

SPRING 2011 Editor Leslie Criss

Photography C. Todd Sherman Thomas Wells

Healthy families - 4 Healthy babies - 10

Advertising Director Richard Crenshaw

Lasik surgery - 14

Special Section Advertising Project Leader

Kids & glasses - 16

Amy Speck

Layout Design

Eyes & aging - 17

Daily Journal staff

Macular degeneration - 18 Dealing with dizziness - 20 To subscribe to receive the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, call (662) 678-1617. To advertise in this or other supplements of the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, call Amy Speck at (662) 678-1611.

COVER PHOTO BY THOMAS WELLS: Anna “Buddy” Holland of Tupelo was expecting her second child.

Colonoscopies - 22 Hold the salt - 24 Aging & the blues - 26 Support groups - 28

NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL | 3

BUILDING

Straightforward guidelines help deliver a healthy pregnancy

By Michaela Gibson Morris Daily Journal

omen have been giving birth for thousands of years. But a healthy pregnancy doesn’t happen automatically. “Most pregnancies are straightforward and uncomplicated, but for some there will be problems

Good prenatal care and family support are critical for a healthy pregnancy. Anna “Buddy” Holland, husband JR and son Spencer, 3, welcomed Laney Kathryn into the world two weeks after this photo was taken. that need to be addressed,” said New Albany obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Eric Frohn. “Routine prenatal care will help to keep these

DAILY JOURNAL PHOTO BY C. TODD SHERMAN

HEALTHY FAMILIES

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problems to a minimum.” Good prenatal care and education can help parentsto-be navigate pregnancy and birth with more confidence and smoother transitions to their lives as moms and dads. There’s no such thing as a perfect pregnancy, because life happens. “The more options you have, the better you are able to handle what comes,” said Kathy Shoalmire, childbirth educator and lactation consultant at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi. The foundation for a good pregnancy begins before conception. “It really does make a difference if you start out healthy,” said Tupelo obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Brandy Patterson. Women need to get their own health care in order so they can be healthy moms. Obstetricians encourage women considering pregnancy to start an over-thecounter prenatal vitamin and extra folic acid, so they have plenty of crucial nutrients during early pregnancy. It’s important to make sure immunizations are up to date. Rubella and chickenpox can be devastating to babies in the womb, and whooping cough can threaten the lives of newborns. With the exception of a flu shot, you can’t catch up on vaccines during pregnancy. While it isn’t necessary to be at an ideal body weight to carry a pregnancy, it’s much easier on the body to start pregnancy at a healthy weight, Patterson said. Obstetricians encourage preconception visits, especially for women who haven’t already establish a patientdoctor relationship, Patterson said. The doctor can gather an in-depth, personal medical history on the mom-tobe and delve into family histories of any birth defects that might be relevant. Much of the crucial development for a baby takes place during the first six to eight weeks. The first symptoms of pregnancy – missed period, morning sickness –

HELPFUL HINTS ➤ Make a list of questions between visits so you don’t forget anything. ➤ Get Dad-to-be involved. Bring him to visits, especially the first meeting with the doctor and when ultrasounds are scheduled. ➤ Consider pregnancy advice from other people or from the Web critically. Especially with online sources, look for information that’s been reviewed by physicians or comes from well-respected sources like the March of Dimes. • www.webmd.com • www.marchofdimes.com • www.cdc.gov BE SAFE ➤ Beyond avoiding alcohol, tobacco and other harmful substances, moms-to-be need to steer clear of everyday foods that could potentially hurt the baby. ➤ Unpasturized milk products – that includes feta cheese and raw milk. ➤ Uncooked meat. No raw sushi, oysters or rare steaks. ➤ Heat it up to kill bacteria. Deli meat that’s been open for more than 72 hours should be heated to steaming before it’s eaten. ➤ Say no to swordfish, tilefish, shark and king mackerel that are likely to have mercury exposure. Limit other fish to no more than 12 ounces a week. Don’t eat more than 6 ounces of white tuna a week. CAT DUTY ➤ You don’t have to kick your cats out of the house. However, someone else does need to take over the chore of cleaning out the litter box to avoid exposure to toxoplasmosis (We know that breaks your heart.) Wash your hands after petting the cats.

NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL | 5

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Ideally we need to see you after you’ve had that first positive pregnancy test, so we can address all the issues.” don’t emerge until four to six weeks, Patterson said. That means women who are trying to get pregnant should consider what substances are going into their bodies. For women who are being treated for health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, anxiety and depression, it’s critically important to have a preconception visit. Many of the medications commonly used for those conditions can have negative effects on a developing baby. “You want to get on something safe, so the baby is never exposed,” Patterson said. Likewise, this is the time to

– Tupelo obstetrician-gynecologist Brandy Patterson

get help with addictions to tobacco or other substances. The medications that increase the chance of success in quitting cigarettes can’t be used during pregnancy. Because of the risk of fetal alcohol syndrome, women should stop consuming alcohol while they are trying to conceive as well. Not every pregnancy is planned, but every mom-tobe should access early prenatal care. “Ideally we need to see you after you’ve had that first positive pregnancy test, so we can address all the issues,” Patterson said.

“An early ultrasound is the best at accurately dating the pregnancy,” Frohn said. Those early visits establish important baselines on weight, blood pressure and lab tests that are crucial to monitoring the health of mom and baby. Subsequent prenatal visits are also very important, Frohn said. In addition to blood pressure screenings, taking weight and measurements, the doctor will verify the baby’s heartbeat. Later on, there will be a screening test for gestational diabetes. It’s important for women to take good care of themselves through their pregnancy. The

body is doing tremendous work as it builds a new life and requires more rest and the best possible fuel. Weight gain in pregnancy should follow the Goldilocks rule – not too much, not too little, just right. “The amount she gains depends on how much she weighs at the beginning of pregnancy, and she should review this with a physician,” Frohn said. Moms-to-be should add some extra healthy foods to their diet. It’s not eating for two adults; it’s eating for an adult and a very tiny baby – about 300 extra calories a day. Lean proteins, extra cal-

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those muscles and delivers a calming effect, for new moms who may be stressed out, Shoalmire said. The baby is going to come whether mom and dad are ready or not. Childbirth classes are highly recommended for first-time parents. “It helps take the anxiety piece away; they know what to expect,” Patterson said. Most labor and delivery classes focus on delivering information to couples about labor, comfort measures and some newborn care. “When you’re in labor, so many things are going on, so many changes in the body, it’s too much information,” said Tommie Pinkins, a Lamaze certified educator at North Mississippi Medical Center Women’s Hospital. “Couples do better when they get the information before the baby is born.” But the benefits go beyond knowing what stage of labor follows the next. “Many times they develop camaraderie with other expectant moms,” Pinkins

said. Hospitals with labor and delivery services typically provide a series of childbirth classes. Both Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi in Oxford and North Mississippi Medical Center Women’s Hospital in Tupelo offer childbirth classes as a multi-week evening class series and weekend classes, where the material is covered in one or two longer sessions. The multi-week series gives new parents more time to absorb the information. The weekend sessions are a good fit for those who live too far from the hospital to come in the evenings or who have work schedule conflicts. There are also community resources, like the Northeast Mississippi Birthing Project, part of a national coalition, that offers pregnancy, parenting and life skills education, and The Parents as Teachers program offered through the Lee County Family Resource Center. In addition to childbirth classes, breastfeeding class-

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cium, whole grains and lots of fruits and vegetables should be the mainstays of a pregnant woman’s diet. “You need to eat healthier and smarter,” Patterson said. Shoalmire suggests that all expecting moms follow a low-salt diet. “Nearly everyone has some swelling by the end,” she said. Women who have been exercising before pregnancy can generally continue those activities with a few modifications to decrease the risk of falls and overheating. For most women, their bodies will tell them when they need to ease up on any bouncing. “If it pulls too much, hurts, don’t do it,” Patterson said. For women who haven’t been active, gentle lowimpact exercise like walking, water aerobics and swimming are great choices. “It really does strengthen the pelvic floor,” critical for delivering the baby, Patterson said. Prenatal yoga strengthens

Preterm labor Preterm labor can occur between 20 and 37 weeks of gestation. Symptoms can include: ➤ Contractions – your abdomen tightens – every 10 minutes or more ➤ Change in vaginal discharge – fluid or bleeding from your vagina ➤ Pelvic pressure – the feeling that your baby is pushing down ➤ Low, dull backache ➤ Cramps that feel like your period ➤ Abdominal cramps with or without diarrhea Call your doctor or go to the hospital if you think you are having preterm labor. Your provider may tell you to: ➤ Come to the office or go to the hospital for evaluation. ➤ Drink 2-3 glasses of water or juice (not coffee or soda). If the symptoms get worse, or don’t go away after one hour, call your health care provider again or go to the hospital. If the symptoms go away, take it easy for the rest of the day. If the symptoms stop but come back, call your health care provider again or go to the hospital. SOURCE: MARCH OF DIMES

NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL | 7

Ultrasounds are routinely conducted early in pregnancy to date the pregnancy and later in pregnancy to check the well-being of the baby and spot defects. Through all the education and planning, it’s important to remember that babies – in the womb or out – don’t always follow the road map we set for them. Flexibility can be key. “Nature doesn’t always cooperate,” Patterson said. “The most important thing is the

Resources for parents-to-be Hospitals with maternity services offer a number of classes about pregnancy, newborn care, breastfeeding and preparing siblings and grandparents. ➤ Baptist Memorial-North Mississippi, Oxford – (662) 513-1602 ➤ Baptist Memorial-Union County New Albany – (662) 538-2397 ➤ NMMC Women’s Hospital Tupelo – (662) 377-4956

➤ Oktibbeha County Hospital Starkville – (662) 615-3364 ➤ Family Resource Center of Northeast Mississippi offers parenting classes, marriage education, parenting during divorce and Parents as Teachers programs. (662) 844-0013. ➤ Health Help for Kids offers free assistance for parents with Medicaid and CHIPS. Trained counselors at Mississippi Health Advocacy

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Partnership offer help and guidance in determining eligibility and other issues. (877) 314-3843. ➤The Birthing Project connects trained volunteer Sister Friends with pregnant women who are at risk. The goal of the national program is to keep more babies alive by providing direction, emotional support and education to mothers during pregnancy and the first year of their child’s life. Call Toni Hill at (662) 255-8283 or tonihill@birthingprojectusa.org.

➤ Free weekly parenting, and fatherhood and GED classes for ages 16 to 21 at Families First Building behind the Mantachie Clinic. (662) 282-4661. ➤ Immunization Clinic provides free childhood immunizations from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Good Samaritan Free Clinic in Tupelo. Families whose insurance does not cover immunizations are eligible. Limited number can be seen. (662) 844-3733.

COURTESY PHOTO BY MICHAELA MORRIS

es are particularly helpful. Classes also help moms-tobe make connection with lactation consultants. They are offered through hospitals, WIC programs and other groups. “It’s hard to get started,” Patterson said. “It really helps to prepare.” Pinkins suggests women invest time to learn about pregnancy and delivery, and then start reading up on newborn and baby care with the same vigor. Her students often tell her they appreciate the information on newborn care the most.

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Raising happy, healthy babies A quick guide to the first year By Michaela Gibson Morris

Delivering a healthy baby is just the beginning of the journey. Babies like 6-month-old Landon Brock, the son of Alicia Brock of Booneville, need a safe, stimulating, loving environment to grow to their potential. 10 | NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL

DAILY JOURNAL PHOTO BY THOMAS WELLS

Daily Journal

Babies don’t come with instruction manuals ... ■ The Daily Journal enlisted the help of Tupelo pediatrician Dr. Eric Street to compile a cheat sheet for new parents.

ALL YEAR LONG SAFETY ■ Keep baby in a rear-facing car seat until they pass their first birthday and reach 20 pounds. It’s much safer, especially for infants who don’t have good head control. ■ Immunizations: It is vitally important for infants to receive the recommended immunizations against many childhood diseases. Discuss any concerns with your pediatrician. ■ Parents and caregivers need shots, too: • Pertussis, aka whooping cough, usually causes mild illness in older children and adults, but can be deadly in infants. Because babies cannot be immunized against the disease until 2 months when they receive the first dose of the DTaP, it is vitally important the adults and children around them be vaccinated. • Influenza: Babies can’t get flu shots until they are 6 months old. Parents, caregivers and older children should be immunized in the fall or early winter to protect themselves and baby for whom the flu can be a serious illness.

SICK BABY CARE ■ For newborns, any fever over 100.4 should be addressed immediately. Call health care provider or go to clinic or emergency department. “It could be a sign of something more serious,” Street said. ■ For older babies, seek medical care if a fever is persistent and doesn’t break with use of fever reducers. ■ Do not give aspirin to babies or children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome. ■ Do not give babies adult stomach remedies like pink bismuth or Imodium. ■ Do not give over-the-counter cough and cold remedies unless directed. ■ Watch for dehydration with diarrhea by watching wet diapers.

NEWBORN – 3 MONTHS SAFETY ■ SIDS prevention. No one knows what causes Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, but certain measures seem to have drastically reduced the incidence. All babies should be put down on their backs in their own bed for sleep – “That’s one of the big things we tell all new parents,” Street said. ■ Other SIDS prevention: • Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke. • Make sure mattress is firm and keep blankets, pillows and stuffed animals out of the crib. • Don’t over dress baby. ■ Send in registration cards for cribs, car seats and other baby gear so manufacturers can send recall notifications. Check consumer protection for recalls on any secondhand baby gear. ■ Watch out for falls. Don’t put baby down on couches or chairs. Also, avoid setting baby in the carrier on tables and counters. They can kick and squirm enough to cause a fall. They are safer to be on the floor or in their crib. ■ Watch siblings closely. They shouldn’t hold or give the baby anything without parent supervision. Especially toddlers and preschoolers may want to share inappropriate things like small toys with baby. Pets also should be closely supervised around baby. ■ Never shake a baby. If a baby is inconsolable and parents feel they are losing their cool, put the baby in a safe place like a crib and give yourself a minute. Call for back-up from friends and family, if possible.

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FEEDING ■ Breastmilk is the perfect food for babies with all of the nutrition and immune-system boosting antibodies they need. Once established, it’s easier and less expensive than formula.

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■ Give nothing besides breastmilk or infant formula unless directed by your physician. They do not need water or juice during the first three months. “Straight water can lower sodium levels and cause seizures,” Street said.

DIAPER FOOD

■ Keep an eye on what shows up in the diaper. Too little or too much can indicate problems.

■ Consider avoiding peanut butter, nuts, strawberries until after second birthday, especially if there’s a history of food allergies in the family.

■ Newborns should have soft, loose stools. A series of very watery stools or a hard, formed stool should be reported to your health care provider.

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■ No cow’s milk or eggs before first birthday.

NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL | 11

DEVELOPMENT

■ Avoid overstimulation; dim lights and keep house as quiet as possible.

■ Start reading to baby. ■ When babies develop a rash, soft wash clothes and water may be less irritating than wipes. ■ Rashes should get better in three to four days with the use of over-thecounter barrier creams. If it doesn’t improve, report it to your health care provider.

■ Give them lots to look at. Babies like high contrast objects and their brains are wired to look at faces. ■ Between 1 and 2 months, start offering tummy time when they are awake and aware. Parents should closely supervise. ■ Babies love to listen to voices. They naturally hear higher-pitch voices better at first.

BATH ■ Don’t immerse newborns in water until the cord has fallen off. Use sponge or washcloth to wipe baby down. ■ Avoid chilling baby. Bathe one part of body at a time, covering the rest of the body with a towel. ■ Babies don’t need baths as often as we think. Three times a week is plenty during the first year. More frequently can dry out their skin. ■ Use mild, fragrance free, hypoallergenic baby washes. ■ Set water heater no higher than 120 degrees to prevent scalding. ■ Check water temperature before baby gets in.

■ Provide lots of time for bonding with adults and other kids. Babies learn from other people.

COLIC ■ Colic usually occurs between a few weeks after birth and 3 months. Babies can have hours of fussiness and crying for no apparent reason. ■ It usually occurs in the evenings or at night. ■ Make sure baby has a clean diaper, and full tummy; work with your health care provider to rule out problems with breastmilk, formula, acid reflux or constipation. ■ Some babies find comfort in swaddling, rocking, sitting in a bouncy seat or taking a ride in the car.

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■ Do not shake baby. Put baby in safe place and take a break. “Better to let them cry it out for 10 or 15 minutes and you keep your sanity,” Street said.

3-6 MONTHS

DIAPERS ■ With solid food, poop starts to get more solid, but shouldn’t be solidly formed poop until after their first birthday. ■ Diaper rash may increase with changes in their digestive system. Important to change frequently.

SAFETY

■ Treat diaper rash with over-thecounter diaper cream.

■ Watch for roll overs. Be sure to watch them closer. It increases the risk for falls.

BATHING

■ Babies start exploring things with hands and mouth. They’ll pull anything they can get a hold of into their mouths. ■ Continue to put down baby to sleep on their back. If they reposition themselves to side that’s fine.

FEEDING ■ Absolutely no solids before 4 months unless otherwise directed. American Association of Pediatrics recommends no solids before 6 months, ideally.

■ Continue using a baby bath or sink. – Be sure to keep a hand on baby at all times because they can’t sit up well at this age. – Check water temperature before putting baby in.

DEVELOPMENT ■ Increase tummy time for play. Parents should still supervise. ■ Babies are usually very happy and playful at this age. This is a very good time for bonding.

■ Don’t introduce juice or water before 4 months. After that, limit the amounts to six ounces. Juice should be diluted with water.

■ Look for simple, age-appropriate toys that let baby explore cause and effect. Rattles, playmats and teething rings are favorites at this age.

■ Any solids should be paste-like. Babies cannot chew at this age, even if they have teeth.

■ Try not to “containerize” baby too much. Give them time outside car seat and exercisers.

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■ Diapers should be checked frequently to prevent skin problems.

6-9 MONTHS

FEEDING

9-12 MONTHS

SAFETY

■ Continue to advance diet, starting with cereal.

SAFETY

■ Remove bumper pads, if they were used at all, so baby can’t use them to climb out of crib and fall.

■ Introduce one new food at a time to track possible allergic reactions.

■ Parents should get down on their hands and knees to find potential risks for baby. Look for choking and falling hazards.

■ Expose baby to a wide range of fruits and vegetables. There’s no evidence that suggests a certain vegetable or fruit should be started first.

■ Secure chemicals and cleaning products by locking cabinets or relocating them out of reach.

■ Closer to nine months, try to move baby toward three bigger feedings or bottles and three servings of baby food, getting them closer to three meals a day with small snacks.

■ Cover pointed edges on hearths, coffee tables, etc.

■ When starting with table food, make sure everything is very well mashed/chopped at this stage. Early teeth don’t help with chewing.

because they dissolve easily. Cheerios also won’t completely block airway if they go down the wrong way.

■ Avoid temptation to turn them front facing in the car seat. ■ Baby-proof for pulling up and early attempts at walking. ■ Make sure dressers, end tables, TVs and book shelves are stabilized/anchored to the wall. “That big flat-screen TV can flop over a lot easier than the older ones,” Street said. ■ Look closely at plants, chemicals, small items babies may try to put in their mouths. ■ If they haven’t been already, stairs and steps should be blocked off.

BATH ■ Cover electrical outlets and cords.

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■ If there are older children, make sure small toys like Legos and Barbie accessories stay away from baby. ■ Stairs and steps need to be blocked off from baby.

■ Continue close supervision for entire bath time. Do not leave alone, even for a second. ■ Use least amount of water possible. ■ Check water temperature before putting baby in the bath.

■ The danger of SIDS is diminished, but babies should still be placed on their backs in their own beds.

DEVELOPMENT

■ Walkers should not be used where baby can reach steps or stairs.

■ Baby needs lots of talking and interaction with adults.

■ Give baby opportunities to explore and move around under supervision.

■ Be especially careful with hot dogs and grapes. These foods with high choking hazard should be cut up in very small pieces.

BATH ■ Baby is sitting by self, but still needs close supervision. Parents should stay with baby in the bath at all times.

DEVELOPMENTAL ■ Babies continue to need lots of communication and reading time with adults. ■ Create safe places babies can explore independently while parents keep a close eye on them.

FEEDING ■ Do not sneak cow’s milk earlier than the first birthday. It can cause an allergic reaction. Breast milk and formula have more iron, vitamins and minerals. Giving cow’s milk too early can cause anemia. ■ All foods should be chopped finely. Soft, chunky, finger foods are ideal for babies learning to feed themselves. Just make sure pieces are small enough so they don’t have to chew it up. Puffs and Cheerios are great

■ Look for developmentally appropriate toys, with different things to explore. ■ Babies do not need any TV time. The AAPrecommends no screen time for children under 2.

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Lenses get zapped

Corneal specialists traditionally have used a tiny blade called a microkeratome inside the instrument shown above, to cut a flap in the cornea. Then a laser is used to reshape the lens to correct vision. The newest procedures use a laser to cut the flap.

Evolving Lasik surgery gives people options for ditching glasses and contacts

Daily Journal

echnology keeps pushing the frontier of Lasik eye surgery forward. That means better outcomes for folks who are looking to ditch glasses and contacts. “Lasik is not right for everybody,” said Tupelo optometrist Dax Eckard, who is a part of the Wesson-Mothershed Eye Clinic. “But we’re seeing very happy patients ... most are 20/20 and almost everybody gets better than 20/40.” One thing hasn’t changed. It is critically important to have an experienced corneal specialist at the helm of the procedure. In Northeast Mississippi, eye specialists offer patients assistance with evaluation for the procedure and followup care, but refer patients to centers of excellence in Memphis and Atlanta for

the actual procedure. “The bottom line is you want a welltrained, experienced surgeon,” said Tupelo ophthalmologist Dr. Matt Wesson. Lasik, a technique that has evolved over the past two and a half decades, is typically used to correct nearsightedness, but it can also be used for astigmatisms and low degrees of farsightedness. For many patients who seek Lasik surgery, glasses and contacts have not been a good fit, said Tupelo ophthalmologist Dr. William Brawner. “One patient told me ‘I want to go to the beach and not worry about losing my children,’ ” because she can’t see without glasses or contacts, Brawner said. Not everyone is a good candidate for Lasik. There’s more room for Lasik to adjust nearsightedness than farsightedness, but there are limits for both. Folks who have a high amount of astigmatism or previous corneal disease also are out-

14 | NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL

side the bounds of the procedure. “There’s only so much corneal they can cut,” Wesson said. People who suffer from severe dry eye and active collagen vascular disease, like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis shouldn’t have the Lasik procedure, Brawner said. Additionally, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should delay the procedure.

The procedure In the procedure, the surgeon cuts a flap in the cornea, pulls it back and a laser is used to flatten the bed of the cornea. The goal is to change the shape of the cornea so that light focuses differently and images appear without blurriness. Because of the mechanics of the cornea, stitches aren’t needed. The flap is held in place by a vacuum created by the eye and will eventually heal. A few years ago, WAVFront technolo-

DAILY JOURNAL PHOTOS BY C. TODD SHERMAN

By Michaela Gibson Morris

Specialized teams of technicians working with corneal specialists map the eye’s topography using WAVFront technology before Lasik surgery. The scan is incorporated into the laser treatment using pre-treatment adjustments by the surgeon. gy made a big changes in Lasik surgery, allowing the surgeon to get a detailed scan of the eye. The surgeon is able to integrate that scan and pretreatment adjustments into the operation of the laser that reshapes the cornea. “I’ve sure seen a lot fewer lens problms with vision distortion with the WAVFront,” said Tupelo optometrist Dr. Fred Mothershed. The newest technology – Intralase – uses a laser instead of a scapel to make the inital incision during the procedure to reshape the eye and improve vision. “It cuts a perfect flap in the

eye,” Wesson said. Patients with anatomically small eyes or deep-set orbits are good candidates for Intraslase since the microkeratome – the very tiny blade traditionally used – requires more space to position, Brawner said. “Older patients with arteriosclerosis also benefit from the Intralase method which uses lower pressure to achieve the firm suction necessary to stabilize the eye during laser treatment,” Brawner said. More blood should theoretically be able to travel through the narrowed blood vessels during the flap formation phase.

After the Lasik surgery, most people see a difference immediately. Some say it’s like looking through wet goggles; it usually takes overnight to clear completely. Patients wear actual goggles to protect their eyes from particles and accidental rubbing. The most common side effects are dryness, which is addressed by using artificial tears, and glare that occurs when the pupil dilates beyond the flap cut in the cornea. Other refractive surgeries like CK are used to correct farsightedness. In CK, a probe is used to recontour the eye around the edges of

the cornea, making it steeper. Unlike Lasik, there are no cuts in the cornea. Local eye specialists say to expect to pay roughly $1,900 to $2,400 per eye for Lasik. A procedure using the Intralase would be on the high end of the scale. They counsel patients to be extremely wary of bargains in laser eye surgery. It’s important to look at the fine print on the heavily discounted specials – they usually include a lot of restrictions and don’t include enhancements or office visits.

Contact Michaela Morris at (662) 6781599 or michaela.morris@journalinc.com.

NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL | 15

DO MY KIDS NEED GLASSES? Daily Journal

ust like the abilities to walk and talk, sight has to be acquired by babies. “We are not born with the connections in our brain that let us see clearly,” said pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Natalie Kerr, who serves as the director of the ophthalmology residency program of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis and sees patients in Tupelo once a month. That’s why small children with vision problems can’t just wait until they are older for glasses or corrective therapy. Without clear images coming into the optical nerve, the brain won’t develop the necessary wiring. “Later on, they won’t be able to see clearly even with glasses,” Kerr said. A family history of crossed eyes or poor vision or being born significantly premature – before 32 weeks gestation – can increase the chance a small child has a vision issue. “Coordination of the eyes tends to be an inherited genetic predisposition,” Kerr said. Before six months old, it’s not uncommon for a babies eyes to cross. After six

months, parents should watch for signs that the eyes aren’t working together. With nystagumus, sometimes called dancing eyes, the eyes don’t line up. Strabismus, where the eyes are misaligned, can be a separate issue from amblyopia, which is bad vision. “One can lead to the other,” Kerr said. If a child is significantly farsighted, one eye may turn in as they struggle to see close up. If a child is significantly nearsighted, an eye may turn out. If the eye crossing starts between 18 months and three years, typically glasses or patching are used to correct the vision. Getting a toddler to wear glasses may seem like an impossible task, but with some steady reinforcement from parents, most adapt well. “Most kids do better than their parents expect,” Kerr said. If eye crossing is detected when a child is less than a year old, eye surgery is usually the most common therapy to address the inability of the brain to coordinate the eyes. “We change the position of the eye muscles to get them to work correctly, since we can’t rewire the brain,” Kerr said. When only one eye is affected, the vision problem will sometimes fly under the

16 | NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL

radar. The other eye does the heavy lifting, but depth vision doesn’t develop properly. “They need to have their vision screened, where one eye is covered and then the other,” Kerr said. In most cases, this screening is conducted during the 4-year-old check-up. However, the pediatrician may refer the child to an eye specialist for further evaluation.

Growth spurt Older children, whose vision has previously been good, can develop nearsightedness during a preadolescent growth spurt, usually between the ages of 8 and 10. “The child can grow so fast their eyes can elongate,” Kerr said. Usually the kids notice something is wrong themselves, when they figure out their classmates can see the board clearly, but they can’t. Glasses usually do the trick. Vision problems are rarely a cause of difficulties with learning to read or other learning difficulties. “It’s a common misperception,” Kerr said, because vision screening is a standard part of the evaluation process for learning disabilities. “They do need to rule it out.”

Contact Michaela Morris at (662) 678-1599 or michaela.morris@journalinc.com.

DAILY JOURNAL PHOTO BY C. TODD SHERMAN

By Michaela Gibson Morris

TIME STANDS STILL FOR DR. FRED MOTHERSHED

NO ONE’S EYES

By Michaela Gibson Morris Daily Journal

SCREENING GUIDELINES

ooner or later, age is going to catch up with your eyes. “If someone doesn’t wear glasses for distance, sometime in their early 40s, they’re going to need glasses for reading,” said Tupelo optometrist Dr. Fred Mothershed. It usually happens between 40 and 44, in women a little earlier than men. “The muscles don’t work as well,” Mothershed said. “The lens becomes less flexible as well.” If you’ve found yourself saying: “I’ve got to have a lot of light to read,” it’s probably time to see an eye doctor. As with gray hair, many people try to fight any sign they are aging and explain away the need for reading glasses. “There’s nothing wrong with my eyes, doc,” Tupelo ophthalmologist Dr. Matt Wesson had one of his patients tell him. “My arms are too short.” People who are nearsighted notice presbyopia in a different way. “They can actually take

All adults should have their eyes checked on a regular basis. This screening can provide early detection for a number of eye conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration, but it also helps watch for age-related changes in vision. ■ Under 40: At least every two years ■ After 40: Every year

their glasses off to read,” Mothershed said. “After 40, sometimes it’s nice to be nearsighted.” The condition typically stabilizes in the mid-50s.

The clear truth Using glasses properly won’t make eyes weaker. “All glasses do is help you see, just like shoes help us walk,” Wesson said. However, folks who wear glasses for reading should take them off when they are walking around or using distance vision. People who have not previously needed glasses or contacts to see can start off with reading glasses, Wesson said. Those who previously needed glasses or contacts will have to jump straight into either bifocals or progressive lenses.

Bifocal lenses are split to allow for distance vision at the top and close vision on the bottom, Wesson said. The lines on modern bifocals typically are now barely visible. Progressive lenses are tapered to allow different ranges of vision in the same

DR. MATT WESSON

lens, Wesson said. Many people prefer progressive lenses for appearance reasons, because they don’t have a visible line, Wesson said. It’s possible to limp along with drug store reading glasses that provide a standard magnification. However, folks tend to be happier with something that’s fine-tuned to their eyes. “Custom glasses are going to help you read better,” Mothershed said. One eye can be different from the other. The custom optics are tuned exactly to your needs.

Contact Michaela Morris at (662) 6781599 or michaela.morris@journalinc.com.

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NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL | 17

Risk factors

• Age • Smoking • Family history • Lifetime exposure to strong light

Tests to detect changes in central vision are a routine part of eye exams. Changes in central vision can indicate macular degeneration. The disease comes in two distinct forms, wet and dry, but early detection is critical to having the best possible outcome in both.

Macular degeneration hits central vision By Michaela Gibson Morris Daily Journal

acular degeneration is a sneaky thief, stealing away a person’s fine central vision. However, even at its worst, age-related macular degeneration doesn’t leave people completely blind. Peripheral vision remains. “Side vision is pretty good for getting around,” said Tupelo ophthalmologist Dr. Matt Wesson said. “It’s not so good for fine vision.” Trouble reading in one or both eyes should send you to

your eye doctor, said Tupelo ophthalmologist Dr. William Brawner. Visual distortion, where straight lines appear crooked, also should raise a red flag. “One patient I saw in the past described the change as telephone poles appearing bent (like) an upside down ‘L,’” Brawner said.

Mechanics The macula, located in the center of the retina, is responsible for fine central vision. It’s tiny and extremely delicate with the texture of the wet tissue. Age-related macular

18 | NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL

degeneration comes in two distinct forms, wet, which affects about 10 percent of the people with the condition – and dry. “Studies suggest oxidative stress from environmental factors like smoking and sunlight exposure, as well as low dietary intake of antioxidants, to be major contributing factors in the development,” Brawner said. “Genetic factors also play a role with increased risk if there is a positive family history of the disease.” Wet macular degeneration is a faster moving and often more destructive form. Tiny

blood vessels in the macula grow out of control and leak, blocking the vision. It’s essential to not delay treatment for wet macular degeneration. “Once blood vessels start leaking, scar tissue can form,” Wesson said. Two new drugs Avastin and Lucentis, which are both delivered by injections are changing the way wet macular degeneration is treated. “For 30 years, we’ve tried to find drugs to dry up new blood vessels,” Wesson said. “These do it.” With the new treatments,

DAILY JOURNAL PHOTO BY THOMAS WELLS

New treatments show promise, especially for wet form of condition

most patients are stabilized on the new regimen, but not all have gains. Brawner has several who have seen their vision improve by several lines, which was not the case with previous treatments. “One of my patients had to undergo injection treatment with Avastin,” Brawner said. “She was ecstatic when her vision improved from 20/200 to the 20/40 level.” Many patients require multiple injections, and some have the injections on an ongoing basis indefinitely, with injections every month or two, Brawner said. Dry macular degeneration typically moves very slowly. People often don’t realize they are losing vision. The macula just starts breaking down. It’s especially important to detect dry macular degeneration early because the progression can be slowed dramatically, but at this point, it can’t be reversed. “I’ve had patients who were diagnosed 30 years ago

with mild dry macular degeneration and they still have mild dry macular degeneration,” Wesson said. Daily vitamin therapy is typically prescribed using the combination of vitamins and nutrients from the

“

about 25 percent,” Brawner said, noting people at low risk didn’t see big changes in the study. “The nutrients are not a cure for AMD, nor will they restore vision already lost from the disease. Patient who are smok-

triglyceride form of fish oil. “It’s a good idea for anyone as long as they’re not taking blood thinners,” said Tupelo optometrist Dr. Fred Mothershed, because of the heart health benefits. A second ARED study is

One person I saw in the past described the change as telephone poles appearing bent (like) an upside down ‘L’ ” – Tupelo opthalmologist Dr. William Brawner

ARED study, which includes high-dose combinations of vitamins C and E, betacarotene and zinc. “Scientists found that people at high risk of developing advanced stages of AMD, lowered their risk by

ers should not take betacarotene due to a statistical increase risk for lung cancer.” Many ophthalmologists are also recommending dry macular degeneration patients also take lutein and the

looking at lutein, Zeaxanthin and Omega-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids DHA and EPA, Brawner said.

Contact Michaela Morris at (662) 6781599 or michaela.morris@journalinc.com.

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NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL | 19

VERTIGO

Vestibular disorders are more than just dizziness By Michaela Gibson Morris Daily Journal

our ears do more than hear. The inner ear is a key part of a complex system that keeps you right side up. When the vestibular system – the inner ear’s balance function – doesn’t work, it can leave you feeling like you are navigating the world through a pair of binoculars. According to the Vestibular Disorder Association, vertigo or dizziness is one of the top 25 reasons people go to the doctor. Many of those cases involve an inner ear disorder. “It’s a very common problem,” said Dr. Jim McAuley, a Tupelo ear, nose and throat specialist who completed a fellowship focusing on the treatment of ear disorders. The vestibular system is one of three the body uses to gauge position. “We don’t understand it all,” McAuley said. “But we know that the inner ear coordinates eye movements and that fluid in the semicircular canals tells the brain what position your head is in.” Vision plays a key role as well as the somato-sensory

In positional vertigo, tiny crystals interfere with the ability of the inner ear to tell the brain whether or not your head is right side up, which can cause vertigo. Hal Rieves of the Wren community allows a physical therapist to hold his head in four different positions, using gravity to move the crystals back to their proper position.

system, which incorporates the sense of touch in the feet to be able to tell the difference between walking on the sand, gravel or grass. Normally when one system isn’t working well, the other systems pick up the slack. But if two systems are disrupted, it can be very difficult, and all three systems decline as we age, said Allison Farley, a physical therapist with North Mississippi Medical Center Outpatient Rehabilitation Center in Tupelo. Vertigo is one symptom of a vestibular disorder, but it can also be a symptom of other problems like diabetes and uncontrolled high blood pressure. It should be evaluated by a physician to track the root cause. With inner ear disorders, something usually disrupts the inner fluid or the balance nerve itself. Frequent falls, especially if the person is walking on uneven terrain in the dark, and veering to one side are common signs of a vestibular disorder, said Lee Ann Holt, a physical therapist at NMMC Outpatient Rehab. The most common vestibular disorders are positional vertigo and

Meniere’s disease. With positional vertigo, tiny bits of crystallized debris collect in the ear canals disrupting the fluid. The vertigo with positional vertigo is usually trigged by a change in head position, McAuley said. Each episode usually lasts only a short duration. For most, it responds well and quickly to treatment. Therapists use a series of head movements to reposition the debris as well as exercises to reacclimate the inner ear to normal movement. “We hold the head in four different positions for five minutes each,” Holt said. “That allows gravity to get those crystals back where they are supposed to be.” Usually patients are directed to sleep in a recliner the first night after treatment and not to lie on the affected side for a couple of nights after that. Many people see their positional vertigo resolved in one or two treatments. Some do take longer. “It’s better to treat before it’s too far gone,” Farley said. Meniere’s Disease is extremely variable, McAuley said. It occurs

because inner ear fluid stops draining properly and tends to be episodic. “It sometimes can last for hours,” McAuley said. It can be treated with medication or surgery to remove fluid, McAuley said. The vertigo usually burns out over time as the inner ear weakens, but it can affect hearing in that ear. Physical therapy for Meniere’s disease typically focuses on improving the balance system to allow people to better work around the condition. Vestibular neuritis, which is triggered by a virus, is characterized by near constant vertigo, McAuley said. It is usually most acute in the first week with frequent nausea and vomiting. The condition usually lasts four to six weeks as the body fights off the virus, McAuley said. “Most young people can compensate on their own,” McAuley said. Older people sometimes need rehab to retrain their inner ears following the virus.

Contact Michaela Morris at (662) 678-1599 or michaela.morris@journalinc.com.

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Colonoscopy examines the entire length of the colon and is considered the gold standard for colon cancer screening.

Colonoscopies vital in catching pre-cancerous polyps in colon By Michaela Gibson Morris Daily Journal

colonoscopy isn’t as much fun as a Hawaiian vacation. But it may help ensure you’re around to enjoy one. “If you think about what you’re gaining,” said Tupelo gastroenterologist Allen Justice, “in going through something uncomfortable, you’re (potentially) preventing cancer. It has far more benefits.” Colon cancer is one of the rare cancers that gives doctors something to look at before it becomes malignant. “The focus has moved from tests that detect vs. tests to prevent,” Justice said. That focus has had a big impact on the rates of colon cancer, which is among the most common in the nation. According to the American Cancer Society, more than a million people in the United States can count themselves as survivors of colon cancer because of improvements in prevention, early detection and treatment.

Polyps Little wart-like polyps grow out of the wall of the colon. Some polyps remain benign, but others start down the path to cancer. Unchecked, the cancer inside those polyps will grow into the colon wall. “It’s hard to know which will grow into cancer,” just by looking at them with the scope, Justice said. “That’s why we generally take them all out.” Polyps are typically removed during the

Colon cancer symptoms ■ Rectal bleeding - the most common sign ■ Constipation ■ Abdominal pain ■ Weakness ■ Unexplained weight loss ■ There may be no symptoms These symptoms can be associated with a number of gastrointestinal conditions, but you should promptly see your doctor to have them evaluated. colonoscopy for testing and prevention. No further surgery is required unless colon cancer has grown into the wall of the colon. The current guidelines generally recommend a colonoscopy starting at age 50. For people with elevated risk – such as a family history of colon cancer – guidelines suggest starting earlier. Some groups recommend AfricanAmericans start screening at age 45 because they have an increased risk of colon cancer. People with a clear colonoscopy and no extra risk factors, typically can wait a decade between tests. For folks at higher risk or whose colonoscopy finds polyps, the doctors typically recommend they repeat the tests more frequently. How frequently depends on the pathology results for the polyps. For most people the preparation, which cleans out the colon so doctors can get a clear look, is not particularly pleasant. Usually the afternoon before a colonoscopy, people stop eating solid food and drink a preparation mixed with soda.

22 | NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL

Colon cancer is the rare type of cancer that gives physicians something they can detect – polyps – before the cancer actually forms. Colonoscopy allows gastroenterologists to remove polyps for analysis during the screening procedure.

Then they spend a lot of quality time in the bathroom. “The procedure itself is the easiest part of the whole process because of the sedation,” Justice said. Newer techniques and narrow band imaging are giving gastroenterologists more weapons in detecting hardto-spot varieties of polyps.

Other options There are other colon cancer screening options. The fecal occult blood test looks for microscopic blood in the stool – an early warning sign of colon cancer. It may be recommended once a year. Flexible sigmoidoscopy and double contrast barium enemas are other options, but do not give a full, effective view of the entire colon. If they are used, it’s recommended they be repeated every five years. Virtual colonoscopies using imaging technology outside the body instead of a scope

inside the body is another option for examining the entire colon. Both of the screening tests require the prep. The virtual colonoscopy does not require sedation and is usually less expensive; however, it is currently not covered by Medicare and some other insurance carriers. The American College of Radiology has pushed for legislation to create Medicare coverage for the procedure. The American College of Gastroenterology considers the CT and MRI colon imaging tests to still be in development and does not endorse them for colon cancer screening. The colonoscopy remains the gold standard. “It’s best to have a full exam of the entire colon with the ability to remove potentially cancerous polyps at the same time,” Justice said.

Contact Michaela Morris at (662) 6781599 or michaela.morris@journalinc.com.

TCHS now provides life-saving screenings Special to the Journal

ver the past 18 months, Tippah County Health Services has identified a number of services needed to provide a high level of care for the residents of Tippah County and surrounding counties. Now, a number of specialists are seeing patients at the hospital facilities. These include gastroenterology, internal medicine, orthopedics, neurology and ophthalmology. The best health care is often dependent on preventative medicine. One such measure that has received national attention is the preventative screening colonoscopy. A simple and virtually painless procedure can prevent colon cancer – one of the top killers of Americans. Dr. Christopher Miller, a

physician for Memphis Gastroenterology Group, now comes to TCHS to see gastroenterology patients and will also be performing screening colonoscopies as well as other diagnostic and preventative procedures. Even though the facts about colon cancer should be enough to convince people of the necessity of a colonoscopy, even the facts can’t erase some misconceptions about this life-saving procedure. Colon cancer now leads as the second cause of cancerrelated deaths in the United States. An estimated 150,000 Americans will develop this largely preventable disease this year and over 53,000 will die. Ironically, up to 90 percent of all colon cancer could be prevented simply by following the current screening guidelines, including getting

a colonoscopy beginning at age 50 and every 10 years after. Why, then, doesn’t everybody get colon cancer screening? To begin with, patients need education about the potential life-saving benefits of colonoscopy, including the unraveling of many false conceptions that surround the procedure. Here are some facts about colonoscopy. With the current instrumentation and anesthesia, colonoscopy is virtually safe and painless. A colonoscopy is much more cost-effective when compared to other less thorough tests. Most insurance plans cover the costs of the procedure. Finally, there

is no doubt that a colonoscopy can save a life. We can battle colon cancer on several fronts. Primary care physicians should actively encourage patients over 50 to have this important test. We can all become more aware of the warning signs for colon cancer, and more importantly, undergo screening tests before any symptoms develop. Healthcare professionals can help guide patients through screenings to ease fears. Beyond all else, patients need to take control and responsibility for their own personal healthcare by asking questions and following through on recommendations. And in this case, scheduling that colonoscopy when it’s time. ■

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New USDA regulations curb the amount of sodium recommended in a healthy diet. By Ginna Parsons Daily Journal

24 | NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL

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ake a walk down the spice aisle at any grocery store and you’ll see a hundred or more different offerings. But which one are we most likely to pick up? Salt. Those days may soon be over. In January, the U.S. Department of Agriculture released its new Dietary Guidelines for Americans, and the recommendation for who should lower their sodium was a wake-up call: anyone older than 51, an African-American of any age, and those who have kidney disease, diabetes or high blood pressure. Those in the at-risk category are encouraged to limit sodium to 2,300 milligrams a day – the amount of salt in about 1 teaspoon. Those in the high-risk category should consume only 1,500 milligrams. That’s a tall order, considering that research shows the average American eats 3,000 to 4,000 milligrams a day, said Nancy Anderson, a registered dietitian for the North Mississippi Medical Center. “And I think that’s probably low,” she said. “That’s just an average. Most people are probably much higher than that.”

So how do we go about lowering our daily salt intake? “The first step is to look at labels,” Anderson said. “Look at those labels and write down everything you eat for a couple of days to see how much you’re consuming.” Many processed foods are notorious for having a high-sodium content. “Anything we buy in a box or a can or a package is going to have salt in it already,” she said. “People think they’re doing good. They don’t use salt out of a shaker, but they eat a bologna sandwich, chicken noodle soup, pretzels. They’re getting a tremendous amount of sodium, even though they haven’t added a grain of salt to their food.” Fast-food is another culprit. “One Quarter Pounder with Cheese has 1,190 milligrams of sodium,” she said. “For the at-risk group, that’s almost your daily allowance in one sandwich. And that doesn’t count the french fries. Most restaurants now provide nutritional information. Pay attention to it.”

DAILY JOURNAL PHOTO BY GINNA PARSONS

Homemade can help Another way we can lower our sodium intake is to cook at home more. “The more homemade things you prepare, the less salt there will be because you have more control over it,” she said. Using fresh or dried herbs instead of salt is one way to perk up food flavors. “We tend to just use salt and pepper,” she said. “Try paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder and salt-free seasonings like Mrs. Dash. There are also different kinds of vinegars out there that you might like – balsamic, red wine and apple cider.” Just cutting back on salt while cooking also works, she said. The next time you’re preparing dried beans or a pot of greens, try using half the amount of salt you usually use and see how things taste, Anderson said. “Gradually decrease the amount of salt,” she said. “This is a lifetime thing. You’re probably going to be happier with small changes.” And the next time you’re making a casserole, try omitting the salt in the recipe. There’s probably enough in other ingredients, like cream soups and cheese. If you do want to cook with the highsodium canned beans and vegetables, there’s still a way to use them. “Rinse them really well and drain them,” Anderson said. “I’ve read that that can get rid of as much as 40 percent of the sodium.” And finally, take that salt shaker off the table. “A lot of times, we reach for it out of habit,” she said. “Taste your food before you salt it. It may taste OK to you without added salt. You might be surprised.”

Contact Ginna Parsons at (662) 678-1581 or ginna.parsons@journalinc.com

Crispy Potato Skins 2 medium russet potatoes Butter-flavored cooking spray Tablespoon minced rosemary 1⁄8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Wash the potatoes and pierce with a fork. Place in the oven and bake until the skins are crisp, about 1 hour. Carefully cut the potatoes in half and scoop out the pulp, leaving about 1⁄8 inch of the potato flesh attached to the skin. Save the pulp for another use. Spray the inside of each potato skin with butter-flavored cooking spray. Press in the rosemary and pepper. Return the skins to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes. Serve immediately.

Baked Macaroni 1⁄2 lb. extra-lean ground beef 1 small onion, diced 1 (7-ounce) box whole-wheat elbow macaroni 1 (15-ounce) jar reducedsodium spaghetti sauce 6 tablespoons Parmesan cheese Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray. In a nonstick frying pan, cook ground beef and onion until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain well. Cook pasta according to the package directions. Drain thoroughly. Add the cooked pasta and spaghetti sauce to the meat and onions. Stir to mix evenly.

1⁄4 teaspoon ground cumin 1⁄8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 pound pork tenderloin, sliced into 4 (4-ounce) portions Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray. In a heavy frying pan, add the sesame seeds in a single layer. Over low heat, cook the seeds stirring constantly until they look golden and give off a noticeably toasty aroma, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove the seeds from the pan to cool. In a bowl, add the coriander, cayenne pepper, celery seed, minced onion, cumin, cinnamon, sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds. Stir to

SERVES 2 PER SERVING: 114 CALORIES, 2G PROTEIN, 12MG SODIUM, 27G CARBS, 4G FIBER, 0G FAT

Peach Crumble 8 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted and sliced Juice of 1 lemon 1⁄3 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1⁄2 cup whole-wheat flour 1⁄4 cup packed dark brown sugar 2 tablespoons trans-fat-free margarine, cut into thin slices 1⁄4 cup quick cooking oats Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Lightly coat a 9-inch pie pan with cooking spray. Arrange peach slices in the prepared pie plate. Sprinkle with lemon juice, cinnamon and nutmeg. In a small bowl, whisk together flour and brown sugar. With your fingers, crumble the margarine into the flour-sugar mixture. Add the oats and stir to mix evenly. Sprinkle the flour mixture on top of the peaches. Bake until peaches are soft and the topping is browned, about 30 minutes. Cut into 8 even slices and serve warm. SERVES 8 PER SERVING: 140 CALORIES, 2G PROTEIN, 40MG SODIUM, 26G CARBS, 3G FIBER, 3G FAT

Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake until bubbly, about 25 to 35 minutes. Divide the spaghetti among individual plates. Sprinkle each with 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese. SERVES 6 PER SERVING: 290 CALORIES, 15G PROTEIN, 94MG SODIUM, 33G CARBS, 5G FIBER, 11G FAT

Asian Pork Tenderloin 2 tablespoons sesame seeds 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1⁄8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1⁄8 teaspoon celery seed 1⁄2 teaspoon minced onion

mix evenly. Place the pork tenderloin in the prepared baking dish. Rub the spices on both sides of the pork pieces. Bake until no longer pink, about 15 minutes, or bake until a meat thermometer reaches 160 degrees (medium) or 170 degrees (well-done). Good served with a side of steamed pea pods tossed with sliced water chestnuts, cooked brown rice mixed with dried apricots, and fresh mango and papaya slices. SERVES 4 PER SERVING: 196 CALORIES, 25G PROTEIN, 57MG SODIUM, 10G FAT

SOURCE: THE MAYO CLINIC

NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL | 25

Elderly at greater risk for depression

veryone has down days and upsetting experiences in life, but depression is an ongoing feeling that lasts for weeks or months. The elderly are at great risk because of medical and neurological disease, and medications that cause depression symptoms. The elderly are more prone to isolation, loss of work and financial status, declining function and loss of important relationships with spouse, friends and children. Talk to the senior – ask about feelings, attitudes and outlook. Common signs and symptoms of depression in the elderly are sadness; irritability; changes in sleep, weight and appetite; lack of interest in pleasurable activities; lack of motivation; fatigue; low energy; poor focus; hopelessness; guilt;

feeling like a burden on family; and thinking of death or suicide. Some seniors use suicide to end their suffering. Death begins to be seen as a logical idea and seems like a good solution for themselves and the family. Suicide risks rise with advancing age and is now 16/100,000 people per year, with a total of 5,500 in America per year. Characteristics of seniors with the highest risks are: white male, widowed or divorced, medical illnesses, access to guns, alcohol use, loss of independence and social isolation. Treatment of depression in the elderly consists of medications, therapy and social programs to improve mood and function. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety and sleep medications are commonly given in cor-

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rect dosages and duration. Psychotherapies such as supportive, educational and cognitive/behavioral are commonly used and highly effective. Social programs offered through community and churches are important connections for the patient. Seniors face many barriers to mental health treatment. Fear of stigma and negative cultural ideas about psychiatric treatment and medications prevent seniors and families from getting help. Also, many communities have a shortage of psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Any friend or family member can use simple techniques when talking to seniors about mental health issues. Listen to them as they share feelings and share your concern for their well-being. Ask about suici-

dal thoughts and plans. If the senior is dangerous to himself take these steps: ■ Be calm. ■ Limit access to firearms and pills. ■ Don’t leave him alone. ■ Don’t try to keep it a secret. ■ Don’t try to counsel him yourself. ■ Sometimes it is appropriate to call 911 for emergency situations. Professional help is always available. Your primary care doctor can initiate appropriate treatment and help guide the senior. Assessments are available through the North Mississippi Medical Center Behavioral Health Center. For more information, call (662) 377-3161.

Dr. Paul Hill is a psychiatrist specializing in care for the elderly at the NMMC Behavioral Health Center in Tupelo.

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SUPPORT GROUPS ACTS – Alcohol Chemical Treatment Series – is a self-help, recovery program. It meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays at Cedar Grove United Pentecostal Church in Tupelo. Free. Call (662) 844-9637. Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women working to solve their common problem of alcoholism. There are no dues or fees. • Tupelo: 31 meetings are offered. Call (662) 844-0374 or visit www.aamississippi.org for listings. • There are also meetings in Aberdeen, Ackerman, Amory, Belmont, Booneville, Bruce, Calhoun City, Corinth, Fulton, Holly Springs, Houlka, Houston, New Albany, Oxford, Pontotoc, Starkville and West Point. Call (800) 344-2666. • For a listing of addiction support groups around Northeast Mississippi, call the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependency at (662) 8410403 or check www.msncadd.net. Al-Anon is a fellowship of friends and relatives of alcoholics. The group has meetings at several locations throughout Tupelo: • Tupelo Serenity Group, 8 p.m. Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays at 613 Pegram Drive. Call (662) 6105950 • First Presbyterian Church, 8 p.m. Tuesday. Call (662) 844-0374 or (800) 344-2666. • Peace Seekers Al-Anon Family Group meets at noon Wednesday and Friday at Calvary Baptist Church. Call (662) 401-8094 or (800) 344-2666. • Solution Seekers Adult Children of Alcoholics meets at noon Mondays at Calvary Baptist Church fellowship hall. Call Nancy P. at (847) 9026267. Alzheimer’s support groups for family members and friends of those with the disease meet in: • West Point: meets quarterly at NMMC-West Point. Call Brenda Johnson at (662) 495-2339 or (800) 843-3375. • Tupelo: 6 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at the Cedars Health Center Activity Room. Call Terri at (662) 844-1441. An Amputee Support Group meets at noon the first Thursday of each month at Longtown Medical Park, Tupelo. Call (662) 377-7225 or (800) 843-3375. Arthritis Support Group meets at 9:15 a.m. the second Monday of the month at Oktibbeha County Hospital Wellness Connection in Starkville. Call (662) 323-9355.

The Autism Support Group meets 6:308:30 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at All Saints Episcopal Church in Tupelo. Childcare provided. Call Melissa Caldwell at (662) 832-2039 or Cheryl Bailey at (662) 315-3388. AWAKE, a support group for people with sleep apnea and their families, meets quarterly at NMMC. Call (800) 843-3375. Bariatric Support Group meets at 6 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month in the Magnolia Auditorium at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi, Oxford. Call Becky Wilson at (662) 513-9671. Bereavement Support Group meets each month at Darlington Oaks on Skeet Drive in Verona. Call Community Hospice at (662) 566-4011. Better Breathers, a support group for those living with chronic lung disease, meets at 1 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at the Magnolia Regional Medical Center Harper Road Complex in Corinth. Call Candice Whitaker at (662) 279-0801. Cancer Outreach of North Mississippi meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at CREATE in Tupelo. Assisted by the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Call Patsy Gregory at (662) 401-0715. Cancer Survivor 101 support group for newly diagnosed patients actively undergoing treatment meets at 2 p.m. the second Thursday of the month. Call Cindy Edwards at (662) 3774049 or (800) 843-3375. Celebrate Recovery is a Bible-based group open to those struggling with addiction, anger issues, grief, guilt, shame, financial loss, abuse, eating disorders or compulsive behaviors. • West Jackson Street Baptist Church, Tupelo, meets at 7 p.m. Fridays in Building B. Contact Neil Naron at (662) 891-1773 or Susan Naron at (662) 871-3872. • Lee Acres Church of Christ on Lawndale Drive, Tupelo, meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays. Childcare available. Call the church at (662) 844-3111 or Joey Grist at (662) 321-0059. The Compassionate Friends, a support group for families who have suffered the death of a child of any age. Parents, step-parents, grandparents and siblings are invited to attend the meetings in: • Booneville: 6 p.m. the second Thursday of each month at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Booneville. Call Joe Young at (662) 538-2422.

28 | NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL

• Tupelo: 6 p.m. the fourth Thursday of the month at NMMC Wellness Center. Call Dave Jensen at (662) 842-1327 or (662) 231-1305 or Jamie Seale at 213-2776 or (662) 842-3174. • West Point: 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at NMMC-West Point. Call Michele Rowe at (662) 495-2337. Diabetes support groups meet in: • Booneville: 6 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at the George E. Allen Library. Call Kitti Parman at (662) 377-2500 or (800) 843-3375. • New Albany: meets quarterly. 2011 meetings will be at 6 p.m. April 18, July 18 and Oct. 17 in education building at Baptist Memorial HospitalUnion County in New Albany. Contact Tina Snyder at (662) 538-2297 and Mary Foley at (662) 538-2199. • Oxford: Noon the second Thursday of the month in the Magnolia Auditorium at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi. Lunch available for $3. Call (662) 232-8113. • Starkville: 5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Oktibbeha County Hospital educational facility. Call Nicky Yeatman at (662) 615-2668. • Tupelo: 11 a.m. the second Thursday of the month at the NMMC Wellness Center in Tupelo. Sponsored by the NMMC Diabetes Treatment Center. Call 377-2500 or (800) 843-3375. The Disability Support Group meets at 6 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at LIFE office, Cliff Gookin Boulevard, Tupelo. People with all kinds of physical and mental disabilities are welcome. Call Michael Sullivan at (662) 844-6633. Divorce Support Group meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month for people working to heal after divorce, separation or broken engagement at the St. James Catholic Life Center in Tupelo. A support group for teen children of divorce – 13 and up – meets at the same time. Call Lynn Weeks at (662) 842-3437. Domestic Violence support groups meet in Tupelo: • 6 p.m. every Thursday. Child care is provided. Call (800) 527-7233 for location. • 3:30 p.m. the fourth Thursday of the month at the Lee County Family Resource Center. Child care available. Call (662) 844-0013. Fibromyalgia Support Group meets at 6 p.m. on the fourth Monday of the month at the Women First Resource Center. Call (662) 842-5725.

Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step recovery support group for people with a gambling problem, meets at 6 p.m. every Monday at Lee Acres Church of Christ on Lawndale Drive in Tupelo. Call (662) 316-2219. Gray Matters Support Group for anyone diagnosed with a brain tumor and their caregivers meets at 6 p.m. the last Tuesday of the month at the NMMC Cancer Center in Tupelo. Call Cindy Edwards at (662) 377-4049 or (800) 843-3375. Grief support groups meet in: • Booneville: 10 a.m. the third Tuesday of the month at George E. Allen Library in Booneville. Call Danny Rushing or Amanda Tennison at Amedisys Hospice at (662) 620-1050. • New Albany: 1 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month at New Albany First United Methodist Church. Call Danny Rushing or Amanda Tennison at Amedisys Hospice at (662) 620-1050. • Oxford: 6 p.m. the second Tuesday and at noon the fourth Wednesday of the month at Azalea Gardens in Oxford. Sponsored by North Mississippi Hospice of Oxford. Call Tracy Morgan at (662) 234-0140. I Can Cope Cancer Support Group meets at noon the second Friday of the month at Bridgepoint on South Gloster Street. Guest speakers. Lunch provided for cancer survivors and caregivers. Sponsored by the American Cancer Society. Call coordinator Donna Kingsley at (662) 213-8478. La Leche League of Lee County offers breastfeeding support to moms. The group meets at 11 a.m. the first Monday of the month at All Saints Episcopal Church. All pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are invited to attend. Call Toni Hill at 255-8283 or e-mail leecounty lalecheleague@yahoo.com. Lupus Support Group meets at 6 p.m. the third Thursday of the month at the Link Centre, conference room A, suite 112. Sponsored by the Lupus Foundation of America. Call Michelle Harris at (662) 640-2407 or (662) 256-2604. Man-to-Man, a prostate cancer support group, meets at 6 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month in the NMMC East Tower education center, Room 21, Tupelo. Call (662) 377-3985 or (800) 843-3375. Mended Hearts, a support group for people who have had heart-bypass surgery, heart disease or other physi-

SUPPORT GROUPS/RESOURCES cal ailments of the heart, meet in: • Corinth: 6 p.m. the second Monday of the month in the basement conference center at Magnolia Regional Health Center in Corinth. Call Barbara Williams at (662) 293-1086. • Oxford: Noon the the second Wednesday of the month at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi in Oxford. Call Riley McMinn at (662) 513-1466. • Tupelo: 6 p.m. the last Thursday of each month at Room 21 of the NMMC East Tower Education Center. Dinner available for $11; RSVP required for dinner. Call Ken Krason at (662) 8446731 or Joan Smith at (662) 8422110 to register. Mental Health Family support group will meet at 10 a.m. the second and fourth Saturday of the month at North Mississippi RC on Highway 7 in Oxford. The group is designed for family members of people with serious mental illness. Call (800) 357-0388 or visit www.nami.org. Mississippi Chapter of Parents of Blind Children will meet at 2 p.m. the last Saturday of the month at the Harden House office on North Gloster Street in Tupelo. Call Pat Sartain at (662) 871-8262. Mississippi Council of the Blind of North Mississippi meets at 10 a.m. the first Saturday of the month at the REACH Center for the Blind on Pegram Boulevard, Tupelo. The organization is open to the blind or visually impaired, and sighted people. Call Tammy Cantrell at (662) 620-7677. Multiple Sclerosis support meets in: • Corinth: 11:30 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at the MSU Extension Office behind Crossroads Arena. Contact Joy Forsyth (662) 4627325 or joycforsyth@frontiernet.net. • Oxford: 6:30 p.m. the fourth Thursday of the month in the Magnolia room at Baptist Memorial HospitalNorth Mississippi in Oxford. Call Robert Allen at (662) 234-3515. • Tupelo: 6:30 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at the NMMC Wellness Center in Tupelo. Call Allison Holloway at (662) 231-5829, Karan Woods at (662) 231-9160 or (800) 843-3375. NAMI Connection, a weekly recovery group for people living with mental illness, meets in: • Corinth: 1 p.m. Thursdays at The Resource Center. • Oxford: meets at 3:30 p.m. Sundays at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North

Mississippi. • Call (601) 899-9058, (800) 3570388 or visit www.nami.org. Narcotics Anonymous, a communitybased association of recovering drug addicts, meets in Amory, Booneville, Corinth, Ecru, Oxford, Ripley, Tupelo, West Point and Starkville. Call (662) 841-9998 or toll-free (866) 841-9998 for more information. New Moms Support Group meets at 10:30 a.m. Fridays at the Breast Feeding Resource Center at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi. Open to all new moms. Call (662) 513-1602. The North MS Pediatric Cancer Support Group (PECANS) meets at 6 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Call Teresa Farris at (662) 791-1228 for meeting location. Northeast Mississippi Down Syndrome Society offers support and information for families of children with Down Syndrome. Meets quarterly. Call (662) 871-2387 or (662) 869-3211, e-mail nemdss@ bellsouth.net or visit www.nemdss.org. Parkinson’s Disease support groups meet in: • Oxford: 6:30 p.m. the third Thursday of the month at Magnolia Auditorium at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi. For more information, call Harry Sneed at (662) 234-3232. • Tupelo: 3 p.m. the first Sunday of the month at NMMC Wellness Center. Open to people with Parkinson’s and their families. Call Ginger Gore or Amanda Allen at (662) 377-3729 or (800) 843-3375. Rachel’s Vineyard Ministries offers support for those healing after abortion. For info, please visit www.rachels vineyard.org or contact Barb Baumann at (662) 231-1983, barblyn28@ gmail.com or (877) 467-3463. Second Chance Transplant Awareness Group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month, except for June, at McAlister’s Deli, Tupelo. Call Mississippi Organ Recovery Agency, Tupelo office at (662) 841-1960. A Sexual Addiction Support Group meets in Tupelo. Call (662) 841-0403. A Sexual Assault Support Group meets at 11 a.m. every Wednesday. Call (800) 527-7233 for location. Sisters Network, Tupelo chapter of the African-American breast cancer survivor’s support group, meets at 5:30 p.m. the first Monday of the month at the Link Centre in Tupelo. Call Norma Derring at 842-3440.

Stroke support groups meet in: • Tupelo: 5 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month in NMMC East Tower Room 21. Call Stacy Scruggs at (662) 377-4058. • Starkville: 10 a.m. to noon every other month in the OCH Regional education room. Next meetings are March 23, May 25, July 20 and Sept. 28. Light lunch provided. Call the speech language pathology department at (662) 6153020. 10 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month in the OCH Healthplex multipurpose room. Call Andrea Carlisle at (662) 615-3020. T.A.A.P. (Teen Addiction Awareness Program) is a free 10-week program offered by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence building, 200 N. Spring St., Tupelo. Call NCADD at (662) 841-0403 or www.ncadd.net. TOPS, a weight loss support group, has three chapters meeting in Northeast Mississippi. Fees are $24 for annual membership; $12 for spouses and teens. Call (800) 9328677 or www.tops.org. Meetings in: • Tupelo: 5:30 p.m. Thursdays at Salvation Army Building at 527 Carnation St. Call Nita at 891-8651. • Aberdeen: 5 p.m. Tuesdays at Southside Baptist Church on Meridian Street. Call Janet Luker at (662) 369-6836 or (662) 369-1878, Grace Guin at (662) 369-4431 or Pat Harris at (662) 327-7152. Tupelo Lost Chords Club meets at noon the fourth Thursday of the month at the Longtown Medical Park conference room, Tupelo. Open to all laryngectomees, spouses of laryngectomees and interested professionals. Call Lisa Renfroe at (662) 377-3248. Weight Loss Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at NMMC Wellness Center in Tupelo. The group provides education and emotional support for those considering or have gone through bariatric surgery. Call registered nurse Cherri Cox at 377-7546 or (866) 908-9465. Women with Cancer Support Groups are sponsored by Women First Resource Center. Groups meet in: • Amory: Noon the second Tuesday of the month. Call (662) 325-0721. • Tupelo: 6 p.m. the third Monday of each month at Women First Resource Center. Call 842-5725.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS American Red Cross offers CPR/AED/First Aid classes at its Westside Drive office in Tupelo. Call (662) 842-6101.

Mental health assessments by a licensed counselor are offered through North Mississippi Medical Center Behavioral Health Center at the Eason Boulevard center from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and through the NMMC emergency department after hours.Assessments are free of charge.Appointments available, but walk-ins accepted. Call (662) 377-3161 (800) 843-3375. National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency provides free confidential information, assessments and treatment referrals for people with addiction. Maintains list of area support group meetings. Call (662) 841-0403. Nurse Link, a free information service provided by NMMC, connects callers with a registered nurse from 4 p.m. to midnight Monday-Friday and 8 a.m. to midnight weekends and holidays. Call (800) 882-6274. Women First Resource Center, 215 N. Gloster, Suite D, Tupelo, hosts groups and offers assistance for women on a range of issues. Call (662) 842-5725.

FITNESS Ongoing Adult swimming lessons for ages 13 and up are available at the NMMC Wellness Center in Tupelo. Private and semi-private lessons available. Instructor Barb Baumann is a master swimmer and American Red Cross water safety instructor. Starting at $15 per lesson. Call (662) 231-1983. Arthritis Foundation YMCA Aquatic Program is offered at 10:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays at the NMMC Wellness Center. Cost is $99. Call (662) 690-6220. Beginner Yoga is offered at 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Yoga Center in Tupelo. Cost is $65. Call (662) 690-6220. Hoop-elo, a hooping class, meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays at Fairpark in downtown Tupelo or at the Link Centre in case of rain. Open to all ages and abilities. Class meets outdoors in good weather. Call Derek at (662) 690-4011 for more information. Jazzercise is offered at 9 a.m. MondayFriday, at 5:45 p.m.Tuesday and Thursday, and 3 p.m. Sundays twice a month at the Tupelo Furniture Market Mississippi Building on Coley Road. Cost is $32 a month. Call Sherry Reppert at (662) 205-4585 or (662) 255-2696. Swimming and water activities are available at the Rob Leake City Pool. For more information, call (662) 841-6440.

NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL | 29

RESOURCES

• Low-impact water aerobics at 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Cost is $10 a month. • Senior aquatics at 10:30 a.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Cost is $10 a month. Call (662) 841-6440. • Lap Swim Training at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Cost is $35 a month. • Shockwave Aquatic Team meets Monday through Friday. Call (662) 841-6440. • U.S. Masters Swimming meets 5 to 6:15 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. National organization provides structured workouts with a coach offering training, stroke and technical assistance. Programs open to all adult swimmers. Contact Barbara Aguirre at (662) 842-2358. Silver Sneakers, a low impact class that uses chairs, balls, weights and exercise bands, meets at 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the NMMC Wellness Center in Tupelo. Ideal for people with exercise limitations. Cost is $99. Call (662) 690-6220. Swimming lessons are available from Elite Physical Therapy & Aquatic Center in Saltillo. Private and semi-private lessons for ages 4 through adult. Classes given in an indoor, heated

pool. Starting at $15 per lesson. Call (662) 869-9980. T’ai Chi Chih is offered at 10:15 a.m. Mondays at the NMMC Wellness Center. Described as a moving meditation, the series of 19 movements improve balance, physical fitness, flexibility and stamina. Cost is $99. Call (662) 690-6220. Water POWER, a water fitness class for obese individuals, is offered at North Mississippi Medical Center Wellness Center in Tupelo at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 11:30 a.m. Fridays. The class is geared to people who are at least 100 pounds overweight with a body mass index of 40 or greater. Free to Wellness Center members; $100 a quarter for others. Free trial class. Call (800) 843-3375. Zumba fitness classes are offered at two locations open to the public in Tupelo: • 5 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays and 6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Dance Studio on Spring Street in Tupelo. All classes $5. Call Liz Martin at (662) 542-9900. • 5 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays and 6 p.m. Tuesdays at the Link Centre in Tupelo. Cost is $25 a month. Call Rebecca at (662) 690-4011.

FREE CLINICS Antone Tannehill Good Samaritan Free Clinic provides health care to working or temporarily unemployed Lee County residents who cannot afford insurance but are not eligible for government programs. Call (662) 844-3733. CATCH Kids offers school-based and community clinics where children 18 and under can be seen free of charge in Lee, Chickasaw and Pontotoc counties. Medications are provided without cost to patients through arrangements with local pharmacies. Call (662) 3772194. Community clinics are: • 5 to 7 p.m. Mondays at 1616 N. Green St., Tupelo and GW Gilliam Building in Pontotoc. • 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Morning Star Baptist Church in Tupelo. • 5 to 7 p.m. Thursdays at 1616 N. Green St., Tupelo and 203 Main St., Okolona. Immunization Clinic provides free childhood immunizations at 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Good Samaritan Free Clinic in Tupelo. Families whose insurance does not cover immunizations are eligible; they do not have to meet other clinic eligibility requirements. Limited number of chil-

dren can be seen. Call (662) 844-3733. Oxford Medical Ministries provides free health care to workers living in Lafayette and Yalobusha counties who can’t afford or don’t have access to health insurance, but make too much for public assistance. Call (662) 234-1374. Regional Rehabilitation Center provides free physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech language therapy and audiology services to children and adults. Tree of Life/Arbol de la Vida Free Clinic holds a free clinics at 5 p.m. the first Wednesday and 9 a.m. the third Saturday of the month at 541 W. Main St. building in Tupelo. Open to anyone without Medicaid, Medicare or private health insurance. Call (662) 841-8777.

HEALTHY EDUCATION Baptist Memorial Hospital-Union County diabetes self-management classes are offered each month in New Albany. Call Tina Snyder (662) 538-2297 or Mary Foley at (662) 538-2199. HeartSaver CPR/AED classes will be offered free at 11 a.m. at the Link Centre in Tupelo on April 6, April 27

Gregg A. Willis, M.D. Malinda Ingram, C.N.P. Elesha Tidwell, C.N.P All Providers Board Certified

Office Hours by Appointment Call (662) 840-4010 to Schedule Your Appointment

30 | NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH JOURNAL

and May 11. The free classes are sponsored by the Weston Reed Foundation. Call (662) 690-4011. NMMC Diabetes Treatment Center offers diabetes self-management program twice a month at NMMC-Tupelo and NMMC-West Point. Call (662) 377-2500. Tobacco Cessation Classes are available free through area hospitals • Baptist Memorial Hospital Oxford – (662) 513-1506 • NMMC Tupelo – (800) 843-3375 HealthWorks! Children Health Education Center is open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. The center is located at the corner of Robert E. Lee Drive and Industrial Road in Tupelo. Regular programs include HipHoppers for preschoolers and their grown ups, school vacation camps. General admission is $5. Call (662) 377-5437 or visit www.healthworkskids.org.

PREGNANCY/PARENTING Hospitals with maternity services offer a number of classes about pregnancy, newborn care, breastfeeding and preparing siblings and grandparents.

• Baptist Memorial-North Mississippi, Oxford – (662) 513-1602 • Baptist Memorial-Union County, New Albany – (662) 538-2397 • NMMC Women’s Hospital, Tupelo – (662) 377-4956 • Oktibbeha County Hospital, Starkville – Call (662) 615-3364 Family Resource Center of Northeast Mississippi offers parenting classes, marriage education, parenting during divorce and Parents as Teachers programs. Call (662) 844-0013. Health Help for Kids offers free assistance for parents with Medicaid and CHIPS. Trained counselors at Mississippi Health Advocacy Partnership offer help and guidance in determining eligibility and other issues. Call (877) 314-3843. The Birthing Project connects trained volunteer Sister Friends with pregnant women who are at risk. The goal of the national program is to keep more babies alive by providing direction, emotional support and education to mothers during their pregnancy and the first year of their child’s life. Call Toni Hill at (662) 255-8283 or tonihill@birthingprojectusa.org. Free Weekly Parenting, fatherhood and

RESOURCES/CALENDAR GED classes for ages 16 to 21 at Families First Building behind the Mantachie Clinic. Call (662) 282-4661.

UPCOMING EVENTS Relay for Life, a team-based fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, will be held in communities across Northeast Mississippi over the next few months. Events begin at 6 p.m. For more information, call (662) 8448544. • April 1: Mississippi State University • April 8: Calhoun County • April 29: Itawamba County, ICC football stadium, Fulton • May 6: Prentiss County, Northeast Community College football stadium, Booneville; Oktibbeha County; Lafayette County • May 13: Lee County, The Mall at Barnes Crossing, Tupelo; Clay County; Chickasaw County, Joe Brigance Park, Houston; • May 20: Tishomingo County, Mineral Springs Park, Iuka • June 3: Pontotoc County; Union County, New Albany SportsPlex; Baldwyn, Lattimer Park, Baldwyn • June 10: Monroe County, Frisco Park, Amory; Alcorn County, Crossroads Regional Park, Corinth; Marshall County,

Sam Coopwood Park, Holly Springs • June 17: Tippah County, Ripley Downtown Square April 10 and 30 March for Babies will be April 10 at The Grove at the University of Mississippi and April 30 at Veteran’s Park in Tupelo. For more information on forming a team, call community director JonJohn Suggs at (662) 210-1001. May 30-June 2 Camp Breathe EZZZZE for children 6-12 with asthma will be held May 30 to June 2 at Tishomingo State Park. The medically-supervised camp includes traditional camp activities and asthma management education. Cost is $100; scholarships available. Call (662) 3774706 or (800) 843-3375 or visit www.nmhs.net/camp_breathe_ezzzze. php. Registration is due by April 15. Aug. 13 Weston Reed Cardiovascular Conference will be 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 13. Free CPR/AED training. Free athlete screenings including an EKG. Call 372-2208 to register or register online at westonreedcc.org.

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