Corpus Christi Heart Ball- MD Monthly

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Corpus Christi

CORPUS CHRISTI

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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Eliot Garza PUBLISHER Jessie Moore PROJECT MANAGERS Antoinette Lutz Miranda Paredes DIGITAL AD MANAGERS Dejanira Lamkin Heather Riley Jacqueline Suttin GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Aurora Balderas Vanessa Bolanos John Vigil ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Chris Lutz ZZ Mylar PHOTOGRAPHERS Carlos Tamez-Mendez Saulo Rodriguez

COVER ARTICLE

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WHAT CAUSES CAVITIES 6

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EDITOR Jody Marmel WRITERS Rudy Arispe Kiko Martinez CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Wendy Askew Dr. Melanie Carreon Dr. Michael Fuentes Dr. Maria Palafox Dr. Jennifer Walden Kennedy Dental Care Victor De La Garza - Avid Wealth Partners Rachel Eddins Reena B. Patel CREATIVE AGENCY The Design House

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For advertising information, please call 210.373.2599 or email hello@mdmonthly.com for editorial comments and suggestions, email editor@mdmonthly.com

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contents

CORPUS CHRISTI HEART BALL Have a Ball While Helping Raise Funds for the Corpus Christi Heart Ball on February 16

36 SPECIAL FEATURE

CHILDREN’S HEALTH 11 Positive Parenting Tips Every Parent Should Know

By Reena B. Patel

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MD NEWS WORKS

Life is short! Let’s document the good times!

High School Students Are Changing Lives Through “WALK AGAIN” Fundraising Projects

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Provided by Avid Wealth Partners

Love is in the Air at Veda Med Spa

INFORMED PATIENT

Heads Up on Preventing Brain Injuries

By Dr. Michael Fuentes

Investing in Down Markets

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Helping Women Look Their Best

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HOLISTIC HEALTH

CBD and Anxiety: How Can It Help Provided by Dr. Wendy Askew

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WOMEN’S HEALTH

10 Things Every Woman Should Know About Breast Cancer

By Dr. Maria Palafox Overview of Laser Hair Removal Provided by Dr. Melanie Carreon Sexual Wellness Supports Good Health Provided by Dr. Jennifer Walden

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ST R RT OK IFI E E

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Heads Up on Preventing Brain Injuries While many of us enjoy watching the Winter Olympics, a downside of this popular event includes head injuries that can occur with the athletes.

But not only dare-devil athletes are at risk for head injuries. They can occur anytime, anywhere, with anyone. They can be prevented, however, without epic – or Olympian – effort: • Wear your seatbelt.

• Buckle your child in the appropriate safety seat, booster, or seatbelt.

• Never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Shut your cell phone off while in the car. Don’t talk or text.

• Wear a helmet with appropriate activities.

• For older adults, remove tripping hazards like throw rugs or clutter in the home.

Install handrails on stairs. Improve lighting in the house.

• For smaller children, use window guards and safety gates around stairs.

Keep stairway doors closed and locked.

Learn more about Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital’s brain injury rehabilitation program at 361-906-3700.

CCRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM

Follow Us

5726 Esplanade Drive • Corpus Christi, TX 78414 • ph: 361.906.3700 February Corpus Christi3.indd 11

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CBD AND ANXIETY: HOW CAN IT HELP Provided by Dr. Wendy Askew

HOLISTIC HEALTH

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magine, you’re sitting in your bedroom, calmly watching television and feeling fine. Then, all of a sudden it starts; you feel your heart rate speed up, your breathing gets faster and shallow, pressure develops in your chest, you feel lightheaded, and a sensation of impending doom overcomes you. The anxiety attack could last for a few minutes, or for much longer.

Imagine that this happens daily, or even multiple times a day. Imagine not being able to predict these events, and trying to live your life ever fearful of when they will occur. Those of us who don’t suffer from anxiety disorders can’t fully understand what they are like. All of us have experienced the sensation of anxiety; perhaps before a public speaking appearance, or at the thought of doing some unpleasant task, like ending a relationship or even just riding a rollercoaster, but it’s very different from living with an anxiety disorder.

There are many different types of anxiety disorders, and they are common. Over 42 million adults in the United States are affected by them. They can vary in severity, frequency, and intensity. Anxiety itself is a normal experience; it is sporadic and serves a purpose. It is unpleasant, but under normal circumstances, it doesn’t occur frequently and typically happens in response to some stressful situation. People who suffer from AD’s can experience these symptoms without warning or triggers and can be incapacitated by them. Patients with anxiety disorders are at an increased risk for a relationship breakdown, unemployment, and for suicide.

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There are many pharmacologic treatments for these conditions, including typical antidepressants, benzodiazepines, older antidepressants, even antipsychotic medications and seizure medications. These medications go by names such as Paxil, Luvox, Lexapro, Zoloft, Effexor, Cymbalta, Xanax, amongst others. Most of us are familiar with these medications. By their own manufacturers research and clinical research, they provide for most patients ‘limited response rates’ and often residual symptoms and side effects are common. Side effects caused by these medications include (but are not limited to) dry mouth, jitteriness, vivid dreams, intestinal upset, weight gain, loss of sexual desire, inability to have orgasms, insomnia, visual changes, even worsening of anxiety symptoms and increased risks of suicide.

Studies on the effectiveness of antidepressants show varying rates of improvement. While the research shows a wide range of ‘effectiveness’ of antidepressant medications, many studies show that for patients suffering from depression (which is, I understand, different from anxiety) that these drugs often showed barely more than a 50% improvement in symptoms for patients. Fifty percent is a coin toss. There are also studies showing that the published literature included studies that were carefully selected (chosen) to show inflated rates of response to the medications. I find this information alarming. In fairness, many studies show response rates in the 60% range, but that is still a little better than a coin toss.

Lifestyle modifications like exercise, meditation and

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dietary modifications can provide significant relief, but these options aren’t always embraced by patients. It leaves clinicians like myself wondering what we can offer to these patients. Perhaps something more holistic?

The scientific research on the effects of cannabidiol on anxiety are very encouraging. The benefits can be significant, and side effects are minimal, (if any are experienced). And the science regarding how the cannabinoids work is fascinating. CBD interacts with several receptors in our brains that are known to regulate fear and anxiety-related behaviors. Do you think it’s interesting that some of these receptors are the very same ones that many pharmacological drugs work upon as well? I do. And yet, CBD acts upon these receptors with better results and efficacy than many pharmaceutical agents do, and often without the adverse side effects. One of these receptor-targets of CBD is called the CB1 receptor, and CBD can have effects upon these sites in our brains, with studies showing that anxiety responses are diminished with administration of cannabidiol. 5-HT1a receptors, also known as serotonin receptors, are also sites of CBD interaction and activity. Most of us recognize serotonin as an important neurotransmitter in mood regulation.

The review studies looking at the effects of CBD on anxiety show that it potently reduces experimentally induced anxiety and fear. Neuroimaging studies show the areas of the brain where CBD has activity, and sheds light on its suspected mechanism of action. The imaging studies show reduced activation of the amygdala (the fight-or-flight center of the brain), and changes in other areas of the brain associated with anxiety responses.

Cannabidiol may offer an excellent option for treating patients suffering from anxiety disorders. The research supports its’ effectiveness and lack of significant side effects. As with any therapy, it may not work for all patients, but it is safe, has a very high chance of improving symptoms and has minimal side effects. In a world where pharmaceutical companies and patients alike are always searching for something newer and better, it’s time for us to open our minds to the possibility that a plant may hold an answer.

It’s time for us to get the word out about cannabis medicine to patients suffering from anxiety. It’s time for us to tear down the stigma associated with the plant, do more research and provide better choices for patients.

For more information on Dr. Wendy Askew and her services please call (210) 625-5849.

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San Antonio Location

210.255.1400

4823 Fredericksburg Rd San Antonio, TX 78229 New Braunfels Location

830.312.4466

1433 Hanz Dr #105, New Braunfels, TX 78130 www.gruenehousemedspa.com EQ gruenehousemedspa

ANTI-AGING CENTER: FACIALS,BOTOX, LIP ENHANCEMENTS AND MORE

SERVICES WE OFFER

Hormone Management

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Dr. Z. Shah, MD, Medical Director

♦ Concierge Medicine ♦ Hormone Management ♦ Weight Loss Programs ♦ Injectables ♦ Kybella ♦ Non-Surgical Penile Enhancement ♦ O-Shot & P-Shot ♦ Eurothread

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Life is Short!

MD NEWS WORKS

Thank you to everyone that attended our San Antonio mixer! With your support we were to raise over $500 for 300 Seconds nonprofit to help impact the community. We recognized two amazing doctors including Dr. Jay Hoelscher and Dr. Z Shah.

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Let’s Document the Good Times!

In partnership with The Ellie Report we also recognized Grant Lopez, Chairman of SABOR, and First American Title. For information on our upcoming events and mixers, please follow us online.

Special thank you to Bar 301 for hosting our event and Wally Robles for providing entertainment.

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HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ARE CHANGING LIVES THROUGH

Walk Again

MD NEWS WORKS

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FUNDRAISING PROJECTS

pproximately 1 in 200 Americans have suffered from amputation, and 1.7 of them have received prosthetics, and the number is currently increasing.

This challenge is considerably worse globally, where access to healthcare is challenging. Imagine a world of isolation; imagine a world of exclusion from activities due to a lack of mobility. Consider what an important component freedom is to our mobility. We are motivated by the inspiring stories of those individuals who rise above the challenges presented by a lack of mobility. Advances in medicine, technology, and the

availability of the necessary resources have made it possible for many people with mobility challenges to live full and rewarding lives.

Now, picture what your life would be like if you suffered from a condition affecting your mobility and you had no access to doctors or medical equipment. That is the grim outlook faced by thousands of amputees in less-developed areas all over the world. Giving these amputees hope for a brighter future by providing prosthetic limbs and the necessary access to physicians and healthcare is the mission of Walk Again, a fund-raising organization created by three high school students.

Walk Again was founded in 2017 by Sneha Reddy, a high school junior at Incarnate Word

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Academy in Corpus Christi, Texas; Nischal Chennuru, a high school sophomore from Columbus Academy in Columbus, Ohio; and Pranai Reddy, also a high school sophomore from Incarnate Word Academy in Corpus Christi, Texas.

While spending time visiting family in India, these students had seen many children and adults with missing limbs in the rural areas of Nellore District in Andhra Pradesh.

They observed that these individuals were suffering from more than just a lack of mobility; they observed that these amputees do not have a livelihood. Being without a limb affects all aspects of their lives. Adult amputees are unable to work and their ability to interact socially is severely compromised. Child amputees are unable to play with other children and their families struggle to provide for their special needs.

of Freedom Trust, Sneha, Nischal and Pranai founded Walk Again with the goal of raising a modest amount of money and contributing those funds to the Freedom Trust.

Their fundraising efforts began on a small scale with sewing and selling handmade tablecloths and donating the proceeds to Walk Again. The original goal was to change just a few lives for the better by supplying prosthetic limbs to amputees who would not otherwise have access to these much-needed devices and the associated medical care. Sneha contacted Dr. Sunder for collaboration, and he began providing motivation and guidance for the Walk Again team. As the students learned more about the magnitude of the problem and all of the hard work that is required to help these amputees, their enthusiasm for raising money for this cause continued to grow.

Empathetic to their plight, Sneha, Nischal and Pranai began to explore how they might be able to help these amputees. Speaking with their family led the students to research the limited availability and expense of prosthetic limbs. They learned that roughly 7 out of every 1,000 people living in India are amputees. Each year, roughly 25,000 people in India lose a limb due to diabetes, accidents or other hazards. Especially in rural areas, a significant number of amputees, both children and adults, do not have the means to travel to cities where qualified rehabilitation teams are located. Sadly, they neglect their handicap and often develop deformities as a result of that neglect, which are difficult to correct without surgery. Sneha, Nischal and Pranai realized that, if they could create hope of access to a prosthetic limb and the necessary attention from a physician through charitable intervention, they could change lives. These students resolved that they would find some way to help.

Sneha, Nischal and Pranai organized a charity golf tournament and devoted many hours to writing letters, raising awareness within their communities and requesting donations to Walk Again. Those fundraising efforts were so successful that helping a large number of amputees became a reality.

Their passion for helping

Further research revealed a charitable organization that was devoting time and money to addressing this issue, Freedom Trust. Dr. Sunder, a rehabilitation professional with a distinguished career of humanitarian achievements in the field of medicine, founded Freedom Trust in 1997 to cater to the needs of the physically challenged in terms of their mobility and livelihood. For over 20 years, Freedom Trust has been relentlessly working for the cause of such physically challenged persons living in rural areas and has helped them with mobility aids. Inspired by the activities

Funds raised by Walk Again and contributed to Freedom Trust were used in several different ways to benefit these amputees. First, Freedom Trust representatives traveled to the rural areas around Nellore and worked with local agencies and organizations that assist the disabled to gather information on amputees who are in need of help.

Next, a camp was organized in an optimal central location within these rural areas so that prosthetic engineers and a coordinator / social worker could meet these amputees in need of assistance and select the best candidates for

others soon became contagious. Together, these three students mobilized others in their schools, and the fundraising momentum climbed to the next level. Through the joint efforts of Walk Again and Freedom Trust, a screening process began to identify 100 amputees in the rural areas of Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh, India who would be suitable candidates for a prosthetic limb.

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a prosthetic limb. Once an amputee was selected for participation in the program, the engineers worked with the amputees to obtain a detailed set of measurements to use in manufacturing, fitting, and adjusting the prosthetic limbs.

The measurements were then used to purchase the materials to build and specially design prosthetic limbs.

Prosthetic technicians utilize a combination of high density polyethylene, vulcanized rubber, and wood to create a prosthesis that is both lightweight and durable and is suitable for barefoot walking in the uneven terrain of these rural areas. Once this process was complete, a second camp was organized in the same central rural location to meet with the amputees and complete a trial fitting of the prosthetic limbs. Each prosthesis is customized for its recipient, and a perfect fit is crucial to the comfort and efficiency of the artificial limb. Funds are also allocated for the cost of training the amputees to use their new prosthetic limbs.

Sneha, Nischal and Pranai traveled almost 10,000 miles to participate in the realization of their goal for Walk Again. After several weeks of work to make arrangements for the event, on December 27, 2018, a welcome banquet and distribution ceremony was held in Anil Gardens in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India, in which 100 prosthetic limbs were delivered to amputees living in rural areas of Nellore District. A crowd of roughly 1,200 people enjoyed

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a day of good food and fellowship. The gathering included not only the amputees and their families, but also a Rural Agricultural minister and other community leaders, Dr. Sunder and other representatives of Freedom Trust, and many others who helped make the event possible. The event was a tremendous success and the culmination of many months of collaborative efforts by Walk Again and Freedom Trust.

The students were able to personally hand the prosthetic limbs to their recipients at the ceremony. “It was a surreal experience with no comparison,” said Sneha Reddy. “The expressions of joy and gratitude on the amputees’ faces left a permanent happiness in my heart and filled me with inspiration for future projects.” A larger scope of charitable efforts is on the horizon for Walk Again. “We plan to expand to help amputees all over India and other countries as well, if possible.”

It is truly amazing to witness the impact that a prosthetic limb can have on the life of its recipient. It is so encouraging to see the young generation taking challenges head-on to deliver the hope and motivating others to do the same.

It also challenges organizations and businesses towards their social responsibility. These children give all of us the hope that our future is in good hands by spreading their message on a global platform.

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WOMEN’S HEALTH

Things Every Woman Should Know About Breast Cancer Dr. Maria Palafox and her health care team at South Texas Breast Surgery share 10 important facts about this disease.

1. Breast cancer is quite common After skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting American women.

On average, the risk of a woman in the United States developing breast cancer at some point in her life is approximately 12%. Your risk of breast cancer doubles if your sister, mother, or daughter had breast cancer.

2. Death rates from breast cancer are falling

Although breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women (after lung cancer), death rates from female breast cancer decreased about 39% between 1989 and 2015.

Although breast cancer death rates have held steady in women under age 50 over the past decade or so, they have fallen in older women.

Decreases in cancer deaths are believed to be the result of improved screening, increased awareness, and better treatments.

3. If you have survived breast cancer, you have lots of company

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Today there are more than 3.1 million breast cancer survivors living in the United States. The chance of dying from breast cancer is only about 2.6%.

4. Alcohol appears to raise breast cancer risk.

Studies show links between alcohol and breast cancer. The more you drink, the higher your risk. For example, compared with teetotalers, women who have two or three drinks per day have about a 20% higher risk of breast cancer.

The American Cancer Society recommends that if you drink, limit yourself to no more than one drink per day.

5. Exercise may protect you from breast cancer

A growing body of research shows a link between regular physical activity and a lower risk of breast cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes a day of moderate-intensity activity most days of the week. Maintaining a healthy weight also seems to have a positive impact on breast cancer risk.

6. Early detection saves lives

The earlier breast cancer is caught, the more treatable and survivable it is. For example, very early breast cancer (stage 0 and stage I) has a five-year relative survival rate of nearly 100%.

7. Men get breast cancer, too

It’s rare, but it happens. Up to 1% of breast cancers occur in men, particularly men between the ages of 60 and 70.

8. Every woman should know the warning signs of breast cancer

By knowing the warning signs of breast cancer, you could save your life. Call for an appointment if you notice any of the following:

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HOSPICE INDICATORS: TARGETING HEART FAILURE Frequent dry, hacking cough

Shortness of breath at rest

Increased discomfort and swelling in the lower body

A breast lump Unusual swelling in your breast Irritation or dimpling of the skin on your breasts that looks almost like an orange peel Thickening, redness, or scaliness on your nipple or the skin of your breast Unusual pain in your breast or nipple Inward turning of your nipple (a condition known as retraction) Discharge from your nipple when you are not breastfeeding Swelling of the lymph nodes under your arm or around your collarbone Knowing these signs doesn’t take the place of screening tests like mammograms or regular checkups.

9. Researchers are making progress against breast cancer Scientists around the world are hard at work finding better ways to prevent, detect, and treat breast cancer. New lab and imaging tests make it possible to detect cancer earlier, when the rate of survival is higher.

10. You are not alone

There are numerous support groups for women fighting breast cancer. By participating in such groups, you can relieve your anxiety and stress — and be better able to face your diagnosis and treatment — thereby increasing your chances of survival.

If you are concerned about your risk of breast cancer or if you notice a suspicious sign or symptom, call Dr. Palafox for an appointment. She and her warm, compassionate, experienced team of women’s health experts are here for you.

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Sudden weight gain of more than 2-3 lbs in a 24 hour period (or 5 lbs in a week) New or worsening dizziness, confusion, sadness or depression Loss of appetite

Increased trouble sleeping; cannot lie flat

MAY BE HOSPICE APPROPRIATE for more information call us!

Source: American Heart Association, Inc.

Call us today

888.873.1822

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WHAT CAUSES CAVITIES

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Provided by Kennedy Dental Care

CHILDREN’S HEALTH

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ooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood disease—5 times more common than asthma, 4 times more common than childhood obesity, and 20 times more common than diabetes. But, cavities are nearly entirely preventable and treatable. Here’s some common causes for cavities, and how to defeat cavities.

POOR DIETARY CHOICES

One of the primary ways parents can help prevent cavities in their children’s mouth is by providing them with a healthy diet. Many parents understand the overall importance of a healthy diet, but are unaware of some dietary habits that could also increase their child’s cavity risk.

When preparing your child’s diet, try to incorporate as many nutrient-rich foods as possible. Focus on adding whole grains, healthy proteins like beans and nuts, and fibrous vegetables like carrots and celery – which clean teeth as they’re consumed. Also, substitute the majority of their drinks with water, which naturally cleans teeth by stimulating saliva production. Allowing children to sip on sugary beverages over long periods of time increases their exposure to sugar, and acid attacks that can erode their enamel.

INADEQUATE ORAL HYGIENE

It seems like a no-brainer, but you can help your child avoid cavities by simply following a proper oral healthcare routine. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists says

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that children should brush for two minutes at a time, twice per day, and floss once per day. When flossing, make sure that your child flosses both sides of their teeth and below the gum line. If they have difficulty flossing, then you can help them by getting them floss picks, or dental tape – which is wider and easier for children to use. You can help your child establish a routine by brushing with them, or finding some fun oral health videos online that makes brushing fun.

KNOWLEDGE GAPS

When it comes to healthcare, there are many knowledge gaps for parents on a variety of subjects – and that includes pediatric dentistry. The best place for parents to find reliable oral healthcare information is at their pediatric dentist’s office. Pediatric dentists have been specifically trained to care for children’s teeth, and understand the unique needs of a developing mouth.

CAVITIES ARE ALMOST COMPLETELY PREVENTABLE

Cavities do not directly cause other disease, but they do leave you more susceptible to other illnesses and infections.

Despite the prevalence of cavities, there’s good news: cavities are nearly 100% preventable. You can prevent cavities by brushing twice per day for 2 minutes at a time, and flossing once per day. Additionally, you can take dietary actions to help prevent cavities.

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CLASSES OF HEART FAILURE UNDERSTAND HF CLASS I-IV How severe are the patient’s symptoms?

No chest pain or palpitation?

Fatigued or okay with activity?

Comfortable at rest?

Unusual shortness of breath?

CLASS A-D What level of problems does the healthcare provider see?

Doctors usually classify patients heart failure according to the severity of the symptoms. The table below describes the most commonly used classification system, the New York Heart Association (NYHA) Functional Classification.

It places patients in one of four categories based on how much they are limited during physical activity.

CLASS PATIENT SYMPTOMS I No limitation of physical activity. Ordinary physical activity does not cause undue fatigue, palpitation, dyspnea (shortness of breath).

II Slight limitation of physical activity. Comfortable at rest. Ordinary physical activity results in fatigue, palpitation, dyspnea (shortness of breath).

III Market limitation of physical activity. Comfortable at rest. Less than ordinary activity causes fatigue, palpitations or dyspnea.

HOSPICE APPROPRIATE IV Unable to carry on any physical activity without discomfort. Symptoms of heart failure at rest. If any physical activity is undertaken, discomfort increases.

Source: American Heart Association, Inc.

Call us today

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888.873.1822

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SPECIAL FEATURE

By Rudy Arispe

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CORPUS CHRISTI

HEART BALL

Have a Ball While Helping Raise Funds for the Corpus Christi Heart Ball on February 16 American Heart Association to recognize Dr. James Michael Neff and Karen Neff and John and Diane LaRue

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The American Heart Association will honor Dr. James Michael Neff and his wife, Karen, as well as John and Diane LaRue during the Corpus Christi Heart Ball from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, February 16 at the Solomon P. Ortiz Center, 402 Harbor Drive.

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ponsored by Christus Spohn Health System, the blacktie optional gala includes a cocktail reception, dinner, entertainment, and a live auction. Tickets are $500 per person. To purchase tickets or for table sponsorship information, call (361) 445-3191 or visit https://bit. ly/2MHhOOo MD Monthly asked this year’s honorees to share their thoughts about this special occasion of being recognized for their work with the American Heart Association, why they volunteer and what makes the Heart Ball such a fun event.

JOHN AND DIANE LARUE

What does it mean to you to be honored at the American Heart Association’s Corpus Christi Heart Ball?

It is a great honor to be able to help this organization in their mission to educate and work to eradicate heart disease. To even be considered and to follow in the footsteps of many previous fabulous honorees and know we are helping in the AHA’s mission is fantastic.

How did you become involved with the American Heart Association?

We were both asked to become board members many years ago, and we both served in that capacity at different times. Diane has helped on several occasions with the Heart Walk, Go Red and Jump Rope for Heart, and we both helped cochair the Heart Ball a few years ago. We are both acutely aware of heart disease in our country as the number one killer. Specifically, for Diane, her maternal grandfather died of a heart attack before she was born, and her maternal grandmother had a heart attack before she turned 30. While most people only have one heart attack, the fatal one, her grandmother was able to take medicines her entire life to prolong the years they shared. In 2011, Diane’s mom underwent open heart surgery. Through the efforts of the Heart Association’s research and the skill of her doctors, we are getting ready to celebrate her 95th birthday in March.

Why is the work of the American Heart Association so important?

To have a national organization with a strong presence is important to our community. We value the efforts of their great local staff who work to educate the Coastal Bend on how to combat heart disease.

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What are you looking forward to about this event?

We are hoping this event will raise a lot of money to further fund the Heart Association’s education and research efforts, and we know this will be a fun event.

It can be fun to get dressed up, spend time with good friends who also support our community, and dance the night away.

What makes this event stand out from others?

Because of our involvement on the Board, we know that almost all of the money raised will go back into education and research. Very few events can boast a dedication to keeping administrative costs to a minimum and making productive use of the money raised.

DR. JAMES MICHAEL AND KAREN NEFF

What does it mean to you to be honored at the American Heart Association’s Corpus Christi Heart Ball?

I feel blessed that AHA has recognized me for their annual Corpus Christi Heart Ball. I am not one to stand on my past. But, to be honored by the community is something I will remember and cherish.

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How did you become involved with the American Heart Association?

I was active in AHA since the early 1980s. Initially, I taught and organized many ACLS (advanced cardiovascular life support) courses knowing that the more people who knew basic CPR and ACLS, the better chance one would survive a cardiac event. Once I moved back to my home city of Corpus, I was a board member and two-time president of AHA of Corpus Christi. I was on the board for several years.

Why is the work of the American Heart Association so important?

Mainly education and letting the population know the statistics of heart disease and what each person can do to cover their own risk. By getting information out, people are living longer and hopefully better.

What are you looking forward to about this event?

Raising large amounts of money to continue the mission of AHA. I also am social and enjoy the camaraderie. It is very uplifting to see the support of our community working together for such an important cause.

What makes this event stand out from others?

Most of the funds go directly to supporting services of AHA. It is also fun to occasionally dress up and let loose.

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ABOUT THE HONOREES Dr. Neff is a born Texan and has lived in Corpus Christi since he was 10. He graduated salutatorian from Southwestern Medical School in 1979. After an internal medicine residency at Washington State University in St. Louis, he served as an internist in the United States Air Force until 1986, when he moved back to Corpus Christi to begin his private internal medicine practice at Thomas-Spann Clinic.

He is board certified in internal medicine, critical care medicine and geriatric medicine. Dr. Neff has served as president of the American Heart Association, president of the Corpus Christi Blood Bank, chief of staff of Corpus Christi Medical Center and currently team physician of the Corpus Christi Hooks.

Karen Neff

Karen has been with him before medical school. She has worked with the American Heart Association, Creative Arts Center, Art Museum, at their children’s schools, and the Nueces County Medical Society.

They have three wonderful children, one grandson, and a great daughter-in-law. The couple has been married for 43 years.

Diane and John LaRue were born and raised in Pennsylvania. John received his BS and MA from Villanova University prior to taking a job with the City of Philadelphia. Diane received her degree cum laude from Peirce College before taking a job working for the city. Their paths collided in 1980 while John was assistant commerce director and Diane was a financial tech for the Managing Director’s Office.

John became the president of the Philadelphia Port Corporation and then the first executive director of the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority.

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In 1994, the Port of Corpus Christi unanimously chose John to be the executive director. His dedication to public service and his knowledge of the port are only outweighed by the admiration he receives from everyone with whom he meets.

Diane has given her time to many causes during their 24 years in South Texas including the United Chamber of Commerce, the American Heart Association, the Blessed Sacrament Auxiliary, Mission 911, the Port Aransas Garden Club, the New Neighbors League, the PanAmerican Round Table, Executive Women Intl., the South Texas Botanical Gardens, Leadership Corpus Christi and the Beach Management Advisory Committee. John and Diane have been married for 35 years. Two of their sons and four grandchildren live in Pennsylvania. Their sons, John and Mark, are residents of Corpus Christi.

Diane LaRue

IT IS A GREAT HONOR TO BE ABLE TO HELP THIS ORGANIZATION IN THEIR MISSION John LaRue February Corpus Christi3.indd 43

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OVERVIEW FOR

LA SER REMOVAL Provided by Dr. Melanie Carreon, Laser Cosmetic Solutions

WOMEN’S HEALTH

L

aser hair removal is a relatively new means that some people say as comfortable or pain free hair removal. It is not for everyone and certainly should be performed by a trained technician, having said that, it is becoming increasingly popular.

Consumers who are contemplating laser hair removal need to research, if, and where to have laser hair removal performed. The existing technology are constantly being outmoded, and some are more suitable procedures for individuals than others. So, lets explore some of the FAQ’s on laser hair removal.

As a guide to who is suitable for this procedure, one of the main determining factors is coloring. The hair must always be darker than the person’s skin color surrounding the area to be treated. Skin with darker pigmentation can absorb too much of the laser energy and so are not ideal candidates for most laser hair removal. If your hairs are light and the surrounding skin is tanned you will not be a candidate for normal sessions either. There are specialty lasers for this type of skin coloring, so check your provider for availability. If your skin is tanned and you have dark hairs, you may well have to wait until the tan fades before

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you could proceed. Light skin makes the hair easier to remove, requires fewer treatments and faster results are required. Laser hair removal can be performed on darker skin but requires more sessions, greater expertise and has slower results. Dark, course hair responds best to the procedure as the hair absorbs more energy. Laser hair removal must be individually tailored to each patient.

Of course, for most of us, the greatest determining factor is going to be cost. Laser hair removal would not be considered cheap for the average wage maker. However, if you work in an industry where you need a lot of personal grooming the cost may well be worth the time saving benefits from laser hair removal. Needless to say, if you have trouble with unwanted or abnormal hair growth eg beard growth on women, laser hair removal is a life changing experience. Also, you are paying for work from a highly trained technician, so you would expect the price to reflect that. In general the cost per session for laser hair removal is in the region of $59-$500 per session, most people would need 4 treatment sessions. One laser session can produce long term removal, however, the hairs need to be caught in a particular phase, to ensure permanent

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from the most experienced laser hair removal clinics.

Pigmentary color changes may occur, either lighter or darker skin in treated area, this change may persist for months but is always temporary. This is very rare with fair skin and some blistering or burns may occur, in darker skin, on rare occasions.

There are specialized clinics available for African/American patients. Generally speaking, people with fair or red hair or heavily tanned people would not be suitable for laser hair removal. Of course, anyone who could not afford more than one session aren’t either, as one session of laser hair removal is never adequate for permanent hair reduction.

Generally, a yearly follow up session would be required.

There have been many testimonials citing laser hair removal as the best thing they have done. These laser hair removal testimonials are from patients of the Institute of Laser Medicine, in Los Angeles.

LYNNE, AGE 43, REGISTERED NURSE/ NURSE EDUCATOR:

“This treatment has been life changing for me. After three treatments and one follow-up after one year, my lifelong facial hair problem is GONE! The virtually painless treatment and excellent staff have truly changed my life.

Thank you!”

SILVIA, AGE 43, GENERAL MANAGER,

“The laser treatments have given me the freedom to not have to worry about constantly having to shave my legs.

The best part is not dealing with rashes and irritations and ingrown hairs., My skin feels smooth and clean. The bikini line is also much improved since there is no irritation from shaving.”

K.B., SELF-EMPLOYED: removal, additional treatments are needed to catch all hairs going through that phase. Larger area’s eg. full legs or back would be more expensive and smaller areas eg. upper lip may be lower. Any area can be treated with the exception of the eye area. Each laser hair removal center will have differing prices so it will pay to contact a few and compare price and service.

The most commonly requested area’s for laser removal are upper lip, face, chest, neck, underarms, back, abdomen, bikini line, legs and periareolar. Shaving, waxing, plucking and depilatory creams all provide temporary removal of hairs whereas laser hair removal gives permanent hair reduction. Just how effective this is depends again on the individual, the amount of treatment and the equipment used. It is impossible to predict exact results for an individual. Consumers are encouraged to choose their laser hair removal clinic by the highest quality service rather than lowest cost. Requirements of qualifications do vary in each state. In California, laser hair removal can only be performed by a Doctor, a Registered Nurse or Nurse Practitioner. Experience is crucial in evaluation of the individual candidate and the best results are found

“This procedure is wonderful. I love it. It has changed my whole confidence and when I wear a bathing suit. Now more ingrown hairs and scarring! So much better than waxing.”

KIMBERLY, AGE 27, MEDICAL STUDENT:

“I have tried plucking, shaving, and electrolysis; they were completely unsatisfactory. This is the only thing that has permanently removed the hair on my face and chest.” dated January 31, 2001

KIM, TEACHER:

“I feel much more confident in my appearance. I can wear my hair in any style because I’m not trying to hide my face.

I don’t worry if someone touches my face. Overall my self esteem is much higher.”

As the procedure is gentle there is no medical reason for not being treated. Patients with dark skin may find laser hair removal a little more uncomfortable. No medication is required before or after treatments. With the advent of new machines almost anyone can be treated. People with allergies to light cannot but these cases are extremely rare.

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HEALTH WOMEN’S HEALTH

D

uring early adulthood, it may feel as though there is no such thing as too much sex. Over time, as we settle into a relationship, a career, and family life, sex can be the first thing to go onto the backburner. Combine lifestyle changes with the effects of aging and we might reach a point where we find more reasons why we’re not having sex than why we should.

SEX SUPPORTS GOOD HEALTH BY:

1

Raising oxytocin levels. Oxytocin is involved in our feelings of happiness, and production gets a boost from sex, self-pleasure, and even from cuddling.

2

Making you more productive and engaged at work. Could sex improve your professional life? According to a study published in the Journal of Management, it just might. On daily questionnaires, employers who

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reported having sex in between work shifts were observed to report feeling more engaged and happy at work than those who did not have sex.

3

Warding off erectile dysfunction. In a five-year Finnish study, researchers found that men in the 55 to 75 year old age category were half as likely to develop ED when they had sex once a week or more.

4

Boosting immunity. Studies suggest that men and women who have sex regularly also have higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A (IgA). This antibody is critical to disease prevention.

5

Lowering stress. The release of oxytocin and endorphins doesn’t just make us feel happier; they also make us feel relaxed, which is precisely what we need to combat the hustle and bustle of daily living.

HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR SEX LIFE Ok, so you understand that sex is integral to your relationship and your overall sense of well-being. What do you do when you or your partner (or both of you) have lost your Mojo? Sometimes, lifestyle strategies like planning a playful date or engaging in a hobby together can work some magic.

However, many of the people we meet need more help between the sheets.

Hormonal issues and aging can have a remarkable effect on sexual wellness. In our Austin practice, we provide several treatments to address issues such as erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, and overall lack of drive. These range from the O-Shot and P-Shot to vaginal rejuvenation and bioidentical hormone therapy.

To explore how an experienced medical team can help you foster sexual wellness, contact us at 512-328-4100.

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INVE$TING IN DOWN MARKETS

BUSINESS

AVID WEALTH PARTNERS

By Victor de la Garza - Associate Portfolio Advisor AVID Wealth Partners

D

own markets have been the headlines for nearly every news channel in America and abroad. This is sure to have raised some concern for investors, much like yourself. While times like these might prompt you to run to your advisor or cash out until further notice, it is essential to remind yourself that you’re investing for the long run. In down markets, there are a few strategies that could help you take advantage of losses and buy while securities are cheap!

BUYING THE DIP

Buying the dips occurs after a security or stock index has fallen sharply in value. Investors will purchase these newly lower-priced stocks to capitalize on what they hope will be a rebound in prices. However, like all trading strategies, buying the dip does not guarantee a profit. Investments can drop for many reasons, including changes to the underlying value of the financial instrument. Therefore, a far more long-term solution to this is Dollar Cost Averaging.

DOLLAR COST AVERAGING

If you have a plan in place and are investing a set amount of money every month, chances are you are already doing this. Dollar cost averaging is buying a fixed dollar amount of an investment on a regular schedule, regardless of the price. Because of the approach, the investor ends up purchasing more shares when prices are low and fewer shares when prices are high.

As you can see in the following table, using a dollar cost averaging strategy, the investor would have purchased 200.14 shares for $4,000. Their average price per share for this period would have been just $19.99. With the stock ending at $23 at the end of this period, the investor’s total position would now be worth $4,603.33. As a result, the investor would show a profit of $603.33 on his/her overall position even though the stock declined in value over the full four-month period.

TAX LOSS HARVESTING

If you have investments outside of your Retirement Plans (i.e., Roth IRA’s, IRA’s, 401k’s) in taxable accounts, you may be familiar with the tax you have to pay when

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$1,000

$1,000

$1,000

$1,000

66.67

50 43.48

40 $25

$20

$23 $15

January 1st February 1st

March 1st

April 1st

selling investments that have appreciated. If you sell an investment at a loss, you could counter any gains you may have realized and offset some of your taxes! There’s a fundamental rule called the Wash-Sale Rule that you must adhere to though: You could not have purchased the security, or a substantially identical one, in the last 30 days and/or cannot repurchase in the next 30 days.

This rule applies to all accounts you own, including those of your spouse.

CONSULT WITH A PROFESSIONAL

While many of these strategies seem very simple and easy to execute at first, they can prove to be complicated and very technical. It is always smart to consult a professional that can help you plan and invest for the long term. At AVID Wealth Partners we pride ourselves in the work we do for time-challenged professionals and aim to pursue the future you want avidly.

Eric Ilmari Kala uses Avid Wealth Partners as a marketing name for doing business as representatives of Northwestern Mutual. Avid Wealth Partners is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency or federal savings bank. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual

Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Eric Ilmari Kala is a Representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC), Milwaukee, WI (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services), a subsidiary of NM and federal savings bank. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed Representatives who operate from agency offices of NMWMC. Representative is an Insurance Agent of NM and Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI, (long-term care insurance) a subsidiary of NM, and a Registered Representative of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), a subsidiary of NM, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser and member FINRA and SIPC. This publication is not intended as legal or tax advice.

Financial Representatives do not give legal or tax advice.

Taxpayers should seek advice based on their particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor.

No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss.

Eric Ilmari Kala uses Avid Wealth Partners as a marketing name for doing business as representatives of Northwestern Mutual. Avid Wealth Partners is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency or federal savings bank. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Eric Ilmari Kala is a Representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC), Milwaukee, WI (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services), a subsidiary of NM and federal savings bank. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed Representatives who operate from agency offices of NMWMC. Representative is an Insurance Agent of NM and Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI, (long-term care insurance) a subsidiary of NM, and a Registered Representative of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), a subsidiary of NM, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser and member FINRA and SIPC. This publication is not intended as legal or tax advice. Financial Representatives do not give legal or tax advice. Taxpayers should seek advice based on their particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor.

No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss.

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HELPING WOMEN THEIR BEST

By Kiko Martinez

SPECIAL FEATURE

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Sumedha Mohan, CEO of Veda MedSpa, Encourages Women of a Certain Age to Match Their Look to How They Feel

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hen it comes to “aging gracefully,” Wendy Whelan, former principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, may have said it best; “Aging gracefully means being flexible, being open, allowing change, enjoying change and loving yourself.”

It’s an idea Sumedha Mohan, CEO of Veda Medspa, is happy to support. Over the years, the definition of “aging gracefully,” she said, has evolved.

“Times have changed,” Mohan said. “Aging gracefully doesn’t mean that you should let yourself go and accept all the wrinkles. People are living well into their eighties. Most people feel younger than they look.

At Veda MedSpa, we try to match the physical being to the mental being.”

Veda MedSpa is a medical facility in Live Oak that offers a number of reconstructive, non-surgical and cosmetic treatments. Mohan’s husband, Dr. Pradeep S. Mohan, is Veda MedSpa’s board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the field. The MedSpa celebrated its first anniversary this past December.

Over the last year, Veda MedSpa has seen hundreds of patients walk through its door in search of treatments that could help them age gracefully. This includes many minimally-invasive procedures such as botox injections, chemical peels, laser hair removal and skin resurfacing.

Veda MedSpa treats both men and women at their facility, but CEO Mohan recognizes that it’s their female clientele who are more inclined to seek out treatment, especially once they have reached a certain age.

sometimes think, ‘This is it. I can let my body go. This is how I look now,’” Mohan said.

“They learn to accept their physical being.

But, I don’t think they have to live with the turbulence of age. Rather than giving up and thinking, ‘Oh, well, this is it,’ women should start believing that they are in the prime of their lives and can look better.”

REDISCOVERING THEMSELVES According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, women between the ages of 4054 had more than 7.1 million non-invasive procedures and over 560,000 cosmetic procedures completed in the U.S. in 2017.

That same year, more than 3.7 million noninvasive procedures and over 380,000 cosmetic procedures were performed on women 55 years and older.

“Women who already have kids and have been married for a while

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“Women want to rediscover themselves,” Mohan said.

“When they’re at a certain age, they’re at a point where they can take care of themselves. Having kids takes a toll on your body.

Women sacrifice a lot, so now it’s time for them to focus on feeling better about how they look.”

Veda MedSpa offers plenty of options to help women reach their goals. Along with the aforementioned minimally-invasive treatments, other cosmetic procedures include facelifts, neck lifts, eyelid surgery, tummy tucks, Brazilian butt lifts, body contouring, vaginal rejuvenation and more.

No matter which procedure a woman might be interested in, Mohan promises that patients are treated like more than just a number. Mohan wants potential patients to know that Veda MedSpa wants each of them to consider her and her husband as their friends. They start the friendship, Mohan said, by listening to each of them, getting to the root of their concerns, and learning about who they are as people.

“We take the time to learn about them and learn what really bothers them,” Mohan said. “A lot of times, there is a little more to them than what you see on the surface.”

Mohan said at Veda MedSpa, her husband likes to take baby steps with his patients when it comes to surgery. If a woman comes in wanting a full facelift,

the first thing he will do is explore whether a lessinvasive procedure would give the patient the results she is looking for.

“We talk about holistic approaches to everything,” Mohan said. “We like to start slow. We let patients know that there are ways we can achieve certain results without simply putting you under the knife.”

with respect and concern,” O’Kelley said. “I didn’t know who to turn to when my condition arose. Dr. Mohan has a goal to educate. I am grateful for the work that they do and for literally saving my life.”

Although it wasn’t a life-saving procedure, patient Maggie Titterington was impressed with the way her facial and microdermabrasion appointment turned out. She said the Veda MedSpa staff took their time to explain the process before it started.

“The staff was simply awesome,” Titterington said. “I was so relaxed. When I left, my face felt fresh, dewy and revived. I will definitely be back.”

FINDING A CARING DOCTOR There was no other option for patient Teresa O’Kelley other than to have surgery when she found out she had a rare disorder called gigantomastia.

After getting a double mastectomy from a general surgeon, she returned to Mohan to get breast reconstruction.

“Dr. Mohan and his staff have guided me through every step of the resolution and continue to treat me

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Patient Sonja Koening was losing hope that a doctor could help her. After having spinal surgery, the wound on her back was not healing. She was in incredible pain and the incision became infected. “I was mad at my situation,” Koening said. “I felt helpless and wanted to throw in the towel.”

Then, Koening walked into Veda MedSpa and everything changed for the better. Dr. Mohan was able to close her wound and she started healing correctly. “Every surgery and journey with Veda MedSpa has been so uplifting,” Koening said. “There were days that I felt my wound would never close and my pain would never go away. God always sends me the right people that I need in my life.”

Dr. Mohan states, “Right now, there is excellent technology that is out there, so we really don’t have to be invasive on the number of treatments. The ability for us to build a practice more so on patient satisfaction and patients being pleased with their outcome is what we are all about.”

HEART FACTS & FIGURES FACT:

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the U.S. Every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease.

FACTOID:

When surveyed, patients and their caregivers said that not knowing what to expect, inability to relieve symptoms and lack of communication with their nurses and doctors is distressing and contributes to anxiety resulting in caregiver burnout. Caregiver burnout threatens the health of both the caregiver and the patient.

FIGURE:

MORE THAN

FINDING CONFIDENCE The Mohans have four children who range in age from 8-19. Two of their children are girls, so they know firsthand how much social media and advertisements that focus on female beauty can sometimes go overboard.

“We live in a world that is too commercialized,” Mohan said. “There is a certain image of beauty that has been set for years. It says women should look a particular way.

As a mother, I try to raise my daughters as confident, young women. We try to teach them that as long as they’re healthy, then that’s beautiful. A confident young lady is beautiful.”

Dr. Mohan believes his wife plays a pivotal role in the establishment of the practice, “My wife really helps personify what we are trying to achieve; we are here for our patients to educate them, and give them the knowledge they need to do better.”

Mohan said that is exactly what Veda MedSpa is striving for. They want women to feel confident in their own bodies. That, of course, does not mean they have to conform to society’s description of beauty. As plastic surgery becomes more common, women of all types will have the opportunity to add their own definition to the mix.

“Plastic surgery is not just for the rich,” Mohan said. “It’s a lot more affordable. If we can help women look the way they want and help give them that confidence, then I think we’re successful and have done our job.”

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1,100,000...

From 1996 to 2006, the annual number of hospitalizations for HF increased from 877,000 to more than 1,100,000.

FIGURE:

In 2009, an estimated $37,200,000,000 was spent on Heart Failure care in the U.S. More Medicare dollars are spent on HF than on any other diagnosis.

37

BILLION

FIGURE:

Heart Failure is the primary reason for between 12,000,000 and 15,000,000 office visits and 6,500,000 hospital days each year.

12, 6,5

, ,

FIGURE:

OFFICE VISITS HOSPITAL DAYS

Close to 25% of Medicare patients hospitalized for HF are back in the hospital within 30 days.

Between 2004 and 2006, those readmissions totaled 500,000.

25%

Source: American Heart Association, Inc.

Call us today

888.873.1822

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Positive Parenting Tips Every Parent Should Know

Reena B. Patel, a licensed educational psychologist and author, offers 11 simple positive parenting tips that help increase positive behavior

A

ccording to the American Academy of Pediatrics, by the time children have reached the fifth grade, around 80 percent of them have been physically punished. They also report that physical punishment, which includes spanking and hitting, has been shown to be ineffective and lead to more aggressive behavior. They recommend that parents use more effective parenting practices, which is something that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) refers to as positive parenting.

“Positive parenting focuses on teaching children what type of behavior is acceptable through means that are more effective and positive,” explains Reena B. Patel, a parenting expert, licensed educational psychologist, and author. “When we focus on positive parenting techniques, we get the desired behavior we want and we help to create children who are mentally healthier and better adjusted.”

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Parenting styles, including whether or not parents take a positive or punitive approach to discipline, can have an impact on the child’s development. According to recent research published in the journal International Quarterly of Community Health Education, parenting styles influence whether or not adolescents have poor self-esteem, and those who do have poor self-esteem are prone to experiencing many challenges. Their study, which included over 500 pupils, concluded that there is a significant association between parenting styles and an adolescents’ self-esteem.

Positive parenting helps to create children who have a healthy self-esteem, are less aggressive, and who tend to have better family bonds. Yet many parents are not sure where to start when it comes to carrying out positive parenting practices. Patel has spent over 20 years working with families to help them adopt supportive and effective

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positive parenting practices.

Here are 11 positive parenting practices that Patel recommends families adopt:

1

Give your child lots of nurturing physical attention – children like hugs, cuddles and holding hands.

2

Children are more likely to misbehave when they are bored, so provide lots of engaging indoor and outdoor activities for your child such as play dough, coloring, cardboard boxes, dress ups, blanket tents, etc.

3

4 5 6 7 8

Set clear limits on your child’s behavior. Sit down and have a family discussion on the family rules in your home. Let your child know what the consequences will be if they break the rules. Rules should be few, fair, easy to follow, enforceable, and positively stated (ex: Stay close to dad in the store; Use a pleasant voice; Wash your hands before meals.)

If your child misbehaves, stay calm and give them clear instruction to stop misbehaving and tell them what you would like them to do instead. (ex: “Stop throwing. Play with the truck on the ground.”) Use specific praise with your child if they stop (ex: “Thank you for playing with the truck on the ground.”)

Have realistic expectations. All children misbehave at times, and it is inevitable that you will have some discipline challenges. Trying to be the perfect parent can set you up for frustration and disappointment.

Look after yourself. It is difficult to be a calm, relaxed parent if you are stressed, feeling anxious or down. Try to find time every week to let yourself unwind or do something that you enjoy. I know as parents it is difficult to do, but give yourself permission to take time for yourself.

Children need positive attention. If they do not receive positive attention from family, they may choose to seek out negative attention. This is because negative attention is still attention, and any attention is better than being ignored.

Remember to communicate with your child. Love and care are the greatest healers.

Punishing a child is not as effective as using praise and rewards. Rather than focusing on weaknesses, find ways to assist your child in developing to his or her full potential. When encouraged, children will acquire talents to compensate for any deficiencies.

9 10 11

Avoid negative emotional reactions, such as anger, sarcasm, and ridicule. If your child has problems with control, negativity will only make him or her feel worse. Use short and mild verbal phrases/ acronyms to remind your child to focus, like “L P.A.,” for “let’s pay attention.”

Parent by example. (Model what you expect) Think of your kids like copy machine who will mimic everything you do. If you make poor choices in behavior, you are giving them permission to act in the same ways. Check in with yourself, and don’t lose it in front of the children.

Don’t give up on your child, ever! All of your child’s problems can be worked through with humor, goodwill, and perseverance. With proper parental support, even the most troublesome teens can become amazing people.

“When we take compassion and kindness into parenting practices, we are going to have much better outcomes and the whole family is going to be happier and healthier,” added Patel. “If you are not used to using positive parenting practices, it may take a little adjusting, but stick with it, and you will see and love the results.”

Patel is the founder of AutiZm & More, and as a licensed educational psychologist and guidance counselor, she helps children and their families with the use of positive behavior support strategies across home, school, and in community settings. She does workshops around California, where she provides this information to health professionals, families, and educators. She is also the author of two children’s books that teach compassion and kindness, called “My Friend Max: A Story About a Friend with Autism,” and “Winnie & Her Worries,” both available on Amazon. To learn more, visit the website at www. reenabpatel.com.

ABOUT REENA B. PATEL

Based in the San Diego area, Reena B. Patel (LEP, BCBA) is a renowned parenting expert, guidance counselor, licensed educational psychologist, and board certified behavior analyst. For more than 20 years, Patel has had the privilege of working with families and children supporting all aspects of education and positive wellness. She works extensively with developing children as well as children with exceptional needs, supporting their academic, behavioral and social development. She was recently nominated for San Diego Magazine’s “Woman of the Year.” To learn more about her books and services, visit the website at www.reenabpatel. com and to get more parenting tips follow her on Instagram @reenabpatel.

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HEADS UP ON PREVENTING

INFORMED PATIENT

INJURIES

By Dr. Michael Fuentes

W

ith the Winter Olympics on the horizon, many of us will be watching and celebrating these snowy, athletic feats worldwide. But, a downside of this popular event includes the head injuries that have been known to come with it.

In the past, American Jackie Hernandez slid unconscious against the snow after hitting her head during a snowboard cross event. British halfpipe skier Rowan Cheshire suffered a concussion during a training session -- the first of three head injuries she received in the next 18 months. Czech snowboarder Sarka Pancochova cracked her helmet during a fall during the slopestyle final. And, snowboarder Trevor Jacob suffered 25 concussions by the time he was only 20 years old.

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While the majority of us don’t live the dare-devil lifestyles of many of these athletes, we’re all at risk for head injuries.

Brain injuries don’t discriminate and can occur anytime, anywhere…with anyone.

Brain injuries result from bumps, blows or jolts to the head. The symptoms of brain injuries can range from a brief change in mental state to an extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia.

Regardless of the severity of the injury, all brain injuries are serious. Your brain is the consistency of gelatin. It’s cushioned by fluid inside your skull. When you suffer a blow or jolt to the head, it can forcibly slide your brain back and forth, which can stretch and damage the brain cells and

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create chemical changes. It also can lead to bleeding in or around the brain, which can cause symptoms such as drowsiness, confusion, blurry vision, headaches, nausea, dizziness, or difficulty in concentrating and remembering things.

Brain injuries can affect individuals not only physically, but emotionally and behaviorally as well. In the United States, more than 5 million people live with disabilities caused by brain injuries.

The most common cause of brain injuries is caused by falls, which tend to happen more with children under the age of 14 or with adults older than 65 years of age. Following falls, motor vehicle wrecks are the second-leading cause of brain injuries.

We’re all at risk for brain injuries, but with a little planning they can be prevented without epic – or Olympian – effort.

Consider these precautions: Always buckle up in a car – wear your seatbelt. Every time.

Make sure you buckle your child properly in a car. Use the right child safety seat, booster or seat belt based upon your child’s age and weight.

Never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Shut your cell phone off while in the car. Don’t talk. Don’t text. Distracted driving causes wrecks.

Wear a helmet. And, make sure your children wear helmets with appropriate activities. This could include various sports like bike riding, skateboarding, skating, horseback riding, skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or any other activity where a head injury is more likely to occur.

Help make living areas safer for older adults. Remove tripping hazards like throw rugs or clutter in hallways.

Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and grab bars near the shower or toilet. Install handrails on all stairs. Improve lighting throughout the home.

Help make living areas safer for smaller children by using window guards and installing safety gates around stairways. Keep doors closed and locked that lead to stairs.

Set up outside play areas on shock-absorbing material like sand or mulch.

Board-certified in physical medicine & rehabilitation, Dr. Michael Fuentes is the Medical Director of Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital. The hospital provides specialized rehabilitative care to patients recovering from disabilities caused by injuries, illnesses, or chronic medical conditions. For more information, visit CCRH. ernesthealth.com, call 361-906-3700 or visit the hospital at 5726 Esplanade Drive, Corpus Christi, Texas.

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