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contents June 2018 Production Media Digital Source Chief Executive Officer Eliot Garza Co-Publisher Jessie Moore Project Manager Alejandra Bermea Account Executives Rebekah Washington Patrick Guerra Digital Marketing Coordinator Jaime Gage Creative Services Designers Aurora Balderas Vanessa Bolanos Editor Jody Marmel Writers Kiko Martinez Rudy Arispe
Cover Feature
Surani Sisters All In The Family Cover Feature
Dr. Aftab Mahmood
Gives His Patients a Fighting Chance
Contributors Dr. Tom Balshi Robert S. Hoffman Dr. Melissa Macias Dr. Jorge E. Mendizabal Albert Lopez Bettina Piotrowski Harry Southworth Roger Wilsond Photographers Jessie Moore Russel Williams 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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10 | Cosmetic
contents
How Venus Legacy™ Restores Youthfulness To The Skin by Dr. Jennifer Walden
12 | Informed Patient
Dealing With Herniated Disc Pain by Dr. Melissa Macias
14 | Business
Doctors In A Patient’s Divorce Case: What To Do? by Robert S. Hoffman
18 | Childrens Health
New Mom’s Guide to First-Year Oral Care by Kennedy Dental Care
20 | Health & Wealthness
What to Eat Before and After a Workout? by Jack
Gender Puts Women More at Risk for Stroke Provided by CCRH
40 | Senior Health
Natural Ways to Maintain Health and Fitness at 40 By Roger Wilson MD Monthly
Do You Recognize These Early Warning Signs of Hearing Loss? Provided by ENT
44 | Health & Wellness
Nine Psychological Tricks for Weight Loss by Albert Lopez
48 | Informed Patient
Advances in The Treatment of Migraines by Jorge E. Mendizabal, MD
50 | Men's Health
Prostate Cancer Treatments: What Options Do You Have? by Harry Southworth
52 | Health & Wellness
The Top Ten Best Foods for Glowing Skin by Dr. Tom Balshi
38 | Women’s Health
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42 | Informed Patient
56 | Health & Wellness IV Therapy: Safe and Effective
by Cryo Body Perfections
54 | News
GARS Test Identifies Predisposed Addictions Provided by Geneus
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COSMETIC | AUSTIN
How Venus Legacy Restores Youthfulness To The Skin ™
Provided by Dr. Jennifer Walden
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any of the concerns for which men and women seek treatment have to do with the natural decline of collagen and elastin that occurs with age. Healthy lifestyle habits are believed to support collagen production throughout life. But with so many other factors in play such as UV exposure and genetics, there comes the point at which the skin is going to lose its resiliency and firmness. As a result, we see lines and wrinkles and an overall “fall” of facial tissue. There are a few ways that facial aging can be treated. Here, we want to discuss how Venus Legacy™ works. In recent years, several radiofrequency devices have been developed and widely used in the clinical setting. In our Austin office alone, we meet patients’ needs through the use of a few different platforms designed for skin tightening and rejuvenation. The Venus Legacy platform, formally Venus Freeze,
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differs from other devices in that it incorporates electromagnetic pulse therapy with radiofrequency to maximize the effect on aging dermal tissue. In the context of Venus Legacy, magnetic pulse therapy is referred to as MP2. Radiofrequency and electromagnetic pulse energy work in two different ways, which creates a sort of synergy beneath the skin. Where radiofrequency is a common technology used to induce an influx of new collagen into the uppermost dermal tissues, electromagnetic pulses excite dermal fibroblasts to reproduce. As a result of impactful magnetic pulses, these cells release growth factors that synthesize with collagen to repair and regenerate the skin. Together, these two technologies trigger a strong selfrepair mechanism that ultimately results in smoother, tighter skin. In addition to a powerful
combination of energy, the Venus Legacy platform also features automatic cooling for a comfortable experience and VariPulse™ technology that facilitates the absorption of thermal energy into deeper tissues. Venus Legacy is an excellent solution for men and women who want to restore suppleness and firmness to the skin on their face, neck, and body. In addition to skin-tightening and wrinkle-reduction, this platform also has settings that target fat and cellulite. Don’t guess about how to regain the youthful appearance you enjoyed ten years ago.
Consult with a professional. Call 512-328-4100 to schedule a visit to our Austin cosmetic surgery center.
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INFORMED PATIENT | CORPUS CHRISTI
Dealing With Herniated Disc Pain by Dr. Melissa Macias
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n our youth, most of us remain blissfully ignorant of serious back pain. Our relationship with our spine is largely unconscious. We expect our back to perform its functional duties, so that we can enjoy pain-free mobility. As middle age approaches, the risk of disc injury escalates to a peak between the ages of 30-50. Pain from a herniated disc can be a frightening experience. Being forearmed with knowledge and coping strategies can greatly offset the fear and instability of this difficult period.
be of immediate relief. A welcoming sleep will probably follow. The acute phase is unlikely to last more than a few days, and medication can usually control the worst of the pain. Also, the pain severity does not necessarily correlate with the length of the recovery period. For example, the debilitating pain of a suddenly herniated disc may only last a couple of weeks. However, the steadily increasing pain of disc-related sciatica can take several months before it begins to subside.
their friends, relatives and colleagues are keen to offer advice. Suggested remedies can vary greatly; ice, heat, yoga, Pilates, traction, physiotherapy, total bed rest, zero bed rest, cortisone injections, hanging upside down and visualization techniques are common recommendations. In fact, many sufferers learn that a conservative approach works best. Following the acute pain stage, a period of bed rest, minimal medication and general relaxation might be the ideal path to healing.
If a disc ruptures suddenly, the pain can be excruciating, feeling as if a surge of electricity is flooding into the spine. The victim has little choice but to remain supine and immobile. Any trunk movement can result in a fresh bolt of searing agony. The sufferer should try not to panic. Assuming this is indeed a herniated disc, it is unlikely to be a medical emergency. In this situation, the priorities are remaining calm, lying still and getting prescribed medication.
Faced with daily pain, desperate sufferers often begin to search the internet and other sources for relief and recovery advice. A wide range of potential recovery methods is available. The number of possible cures is a clear indication that a definitive panacea is not available. The biomechanics of the spine are complex, so promises may be empty. Pain makes people vulnerable, placing them in a medical niche market where sufferers can be desperate to find relief regardless of costs.
In recent times, patience has lost some of its virtuous status. Many people expect quick fixes, especially if they pay for them. The reality of back pain due to disc herniation may not be so accommodating. Discs receive no direct blood supply, so the healing process can be slow. For sciatica sufferers, it can be weeks before any signs of improvement are evident. Once recovery does begin, it is helpful to measure progress on a weekto-week basis rather than hoping to wake up free from pain the following day.
The usual prescribed medication of strong painkillers and muscle relaxants will
As well as commercial promises, back pain victims may discover that many of
During a bout of prolonged disc-related pain, most sufferers will consider the
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surgical options. Large-scale research indicates that two years after either surgical or non-surgical treatment, the rates of patient relief are very similar. Herniated discs rarely require emergency surgery. Similarly, delaying surgery as a wait-and-see approach is very unlikely to cause further damage. Of course, for some people, putting off surgery might not seem practical. Surgery carries its own risks, and a good surgeon will outline both the short-term and long-term risks of the surgical route. Many surgeons will also emphasize that most people will recover in time without surgery. Sufferers should ideally seek out a range of professional opinions before making a decision on surgery. In the acute stage, exercise will be far from the patient’s mind. Then, as the worst pain subsides, it is tempting to take up such activities as yoga, Pilates or core strengthening routines. Prolonged bed rest can be detrimental to healing,
healing process can be frustrating. Temporary caregivers should be aware of improvements in pain and mobility. It also helps if caregivers know about medical options, and believe that the patient is making informed decisions based on sound medical knowledge from professionals.
but so can unfamiliar exercise sessions. In the early recovery stages, very basic back exercises can offer some benefits. More strenuous or untested routines may be better as later preventative strategies rather than early remedial approaches. The support of family and friends is essential during bouts of incapacity due to back pain. The support role may be taxing, and the slow pace of the patient’s
The majority of people with back pain from a herniated disc will achieve a satisfactory recovery. A herniated disc does not mean a bad back for life. Sufferers can usually return to their favorite sports and leisure activities. A sedentary lifestyle places more strain on discs, and can be far more damaging than many sports. Athletes at all levels with a history of disc-related pain are often careful to include a back strengthening program in their exercise routines. Simple daily back exercises are an excellent means of spinal injury prevention for everyone.
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BUSINESS | HOUSTON
DOCTORS MAY HAVE TO SUPPLY RECORDS OR EVEN TESTIFY IN A PATIENT’S DIVORCE CASE:
What To Do? This article was prepared by Robert S. Hoffman, board-certified family law attorney, who has been practicing for 31 years in Houston, and Jennie R. Smith, an attorney in the Law Office of Robert S. Hoffman, PLLC.
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ost physicians would assume that the patient/physician relationship is protected by law and may not be breached, even during a high-conflict divorce involving a patient. And aren’t patient records protected by HIPAA privacy regulations anyway? Despite these legal protections, under certain circumstances, a doctor may be required to provide medical records or to testify in a divorce case and/or child custody battle, and there may not be any way to avoid this unpleasant task. In Texas, exceptions
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to evidentiary rules may waive privilege in child custody litigation and in divorces where physical or mental health is at issue. The doctor may be ordered to submit medical records and possibly testify during the trial of a case. How might this happen? Let’s suppose that a child who is the longtime patient of a particular pediatrician is caught in the middle of a high-conflict divorce and custody battle. Medical issues that can become part of a divorce case may range from something as apparently simple as bedwetting to very serious medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, diabetes or sickle-cell anemia. Perhaps the parents disagree as to whether and when the child should receive routine vaccinations. Perhaps the child has allergies and one parent
is skeptical of “allergies” and therefore less careful than the other in making sure that the child does not consume food that might cause an adverse reaction. The list of possible issues that can become bones of contention in a divorce is endless, depending on the medical circumstances of the child. If the parents cannot agree on how to make medical decisions involving the child, the judge will issue an order determining which parent has the primary right to make invasive medical decisions for the child. In some cases, the doctor may even be appointed the “tiebreaker” between the parents in making important medical decisions without the doctor having been previously apprised or consulted regarding serving in this capacity. Talk therapy records may also be subpoenaed, and psychologists or counselors may also be required to
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testify at a deposition and/or in court as to the mental condition of a child or an adult in a case.
the doctor perhaps seek an order of protection from the court? A lawyer can also advise the doctor as to how to obtain appropriate signed waivers before turning over private medical records to anyone. And no doctor should ever give a deposition without his or her lawyer present.
It is also possible that, entirely apart from medical records, a doctor may be asked to testify about factors which impact a child’s best interest such as which parent most often brought the child or children to medical appointments and/or complied with medical directives. When a doctor’s medical records are subpoenaed as part of a divorce case and he or she is requested or subpoenaed to testify, the first thing he should do is consult an attorney to determine how best to meet these demands. There could even be potential liability for the doctor if he or she allows a parent to make medical decisions who has not been assigned that responsibility by the court or if the doctor takes some action that could
Bottom line: doctors face a number of potential land mines when treating a child of divorce or a party to a divorce or custody case. Just as preventive care is a first line of defense in health care, being informed and proactive is a physician’s best defense when facing a legal matter. be considered a violation of a parent’s rights in the matter. To begin with, the doctor should ask a lawyer to determine whether a request for documents is overly broad. Must he or she comply? With which parts of the request? Or should
This article offers general legal information not pertaining to specific, individual circumstances. No attorney-client relationship is formed with readers.
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CHILDRENS HEALTH | CORPUS CHRISTI
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CHILDRENS HEALTH | CORPUS CHRISTI
NEW MOM’S GUIDE TO
FIRST-YEAR ORAL CARE Provided by Kennedy Dental Care
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here’s a lot of new information that moms have to learn during their child’s first year. Today, we’re going to help new parents everywhere by giving them a guide to first-year oral care. Clean Their Mouths The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that parents begin cleaning their baby’s mouth from day one. New moms can use an infant toothbrush or a soft cloth soaked in cool, clean water to clean their baby’s gums after nursing. Parents should clean their infant’s gums daily, and after each meal they have. Avoid Baby Bottle Tooth Decay Baby bottle tooth decay is one of the most common ailments that young children encounter. It usually occurs when infants drink milk or other sugary beverages in their bottle without cleaning their mouths afterwards. You can avoid baby bottle tooth decay by
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giving your child water after they’ve had milk, and by limiting or eliminating sugary beverages in their bottles. Use the Right Kind of Bedtime Bottle If your child requires a bedtime bottle, then make sure that it is filled with only water so that you’re not exposing their teeth to sugar for long periods. By sending your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, you expose their mouths to high amounts of sugar for an extended period of time. Care for Tooth Number One Usually, your child’s first tooth will emerge around the four to six month mark. From day one, it’s important that you keep your child’s first tooth clean! You can do this by using an infant toothbrush. When shopping for a toothbrush, look for one that has rounded bristles and a small head that can easily fit into their mouth. Find a toothbrush that
has very soft bristles, without the hard rubber liners on the outside of the head (called burs). You can begin flossing their teeth once they have two teeth touching. Use flat, wide floss and apply very gentle pressure to clean all sides of the tooth. Find a Pediatric Dental Home by Age One The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that parents take their infants to the pediatric dentist as soon as their first tooth emerges – which is around the four to six month mark.
We love serving families, and helping guide them to oral health success and we’d be happy to see you! Call our office to schedule a stress-free first visit, and give your child a leg-up on their oral health today. To learn more visit online www.paulkennedydds.com
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HEALTH & WELLNESS | REGIONAL
WHAT TO EAT
Before and After A WORKOUT? By Jack
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ating the right food before and after exercise, gives you the energy you need throughout the day. When you are done, refuelling with a mixture of protein and carbs can help you rebuild muscle. Boss Peptides are also playing an essential role in increasing natural building strength and endurance by producing some great natural muscle building products. What to Eat Before a Good Workout The very best pre-workout mouthful contains some form of complicated carbohydrate along with proteins. Here are several of the favorite meals and snack foods to keep up energy during as well as after a workout. • Whole Grain Toast with Cut Jokester and Cinnamon: These are extraordinary assets of complex starches that should be expended around 2-3 hours pre-exercise. • Greek Yogurt and Trail Blend: Greek Yogurt comprises twofold the protein
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as typical without fat yogurt, yet around 50 % as much crude sugar as normal yogurt. You can test Greek Yogurt with Trail Blend since it offers fulfilment to hunger and usable vitality for your body. An equivalent high-protein dairy choice is New Cheddar: New Cheddar gives fantastic proteins, calcium and vitamin B-12, and you may expend it all alone or in various formulas. • Smoothies: Smoothies are a great pre-exercise nibble since they have top quality protein, can be immediately processed, and have the key combo of straightforward and complex carbs. • Oats with Unwinding Natural Product: Oats are the exercise mate you need to work out. It sticks together with all of you through your activity by consistently discharging glucose into the circulatory system. • Apple Organization Wedges with
Almond Spread: When it comes down to selecting the sweet dish for some pre-exercise glucose, go for the apple organization. You’ll maintain a strategic distance from glucose while stocking up on vitamins, minerals and cancer prevention agents. • Espresso: Caffeine has been shown to enable standard consumers to appreciate an exercise more by giving you vitality, and to help moderate weariness and improve the rate of fatconsumption. What to Eat After an Exercise Recorded underneath is the nourishment you can gobble after exercise periods to accelerate recuperation. • Grilled Chicken and Blended Veggies: Barbecued poultry and vegetables are the perfect recovery nourishment after a strenuous exercise session when the body is depleted of
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vitality and liquids. It is a dish loaded with healthy supplements that bring back protein and sugars in the body without influencing you to feel enlarged and full.
restorative burrito by including grains, for example, darker grain, kidney beans or quinoa. • Chocolate Drain: Step away from the specific game and vitality refreshments and get some shamefully sound dim chocolate drain post exercise. Flow investigate has shown that chocolate drain is a standout amongst the best post-practice recuperation drinks. This has twofold the number of sugars and proteins contrasted with any games exercise.
• Veggie Omelet with Avocado: These choices help in muscle development and are a decent wellspring of protein. The vegetable filled omelet can be viewed as an ideal blend of taste and nourishment after an exercise. Avocado gives you Vitamin B, which helps in processing all sound carbs and proteins. • Salmon with Sweet Spud: Fish is an entire nourishment that encourages your body to boost the colossal things about a decent exercise. Sweet potatoes are a decent wellspring of starches and cancer prevention agent supplements like beta-carotene. • Hummus: Hummus contains two proteins and sugars. It is additionally
brimming with vitamin D and iron. It offers extensive measures of vitamin B-6 and folate. You can eat it with wheat grains pita chips to keep up your vitality step even after a concentrated exercise. • Spinach Supper: Pick wholegrain wraps since they are stacked with sugars. You can choose a chicken or turkey to wrap alongside your selected vegetables. You may likewise make a
So, here we explained some dishes you may choose as per your eating preferences. We hope you fill up with energy during and after the workout when you make the right food choices. This can make the difference and help you achieve the results and goals you set for yourself throughout your exercise regime and improve your overall health for a lifetime.
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Sister Act: Project iConquer
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HELPS COASTAL BEND SCHOOL CHILDREN CONQUER CHILDHOOD OBESITY AND DIABETES
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Rudy Arispe
Sisters Sara, Saherish and Zoya Surani have an important message that they want to share with 3 to 7-year-olds in the Coastal Bend and that is to “chews” wisely, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, to conquer obesity and diabetes. In 2013, the Surani sisters created Project iConquer, a diabetes awareness program which specifically targets young children. To date, the program has reached more than 20,000 students in 35 area schools and has raised more than $180,000 in local, state and federal grants. “We started iConquer when Corpus Christi was ranked number 1 in the ‘Fattest Cities of America’ list in Men’s Health magazine in 2010,” said Saherish, 19, a freshman at Tufts University who is studying political science and cognitive brain sciences. iConquer educates 3 to 7-year-olds through a series of animated films, puppet shows and fun activities, such as Zumba dances and more. “We focus on 3 to 7-year-olds because children usually develop their habits by age 7,” said Sara, 22, a recent graduate of Harvard University with a degree in global health and health policy. “So we want to create new habits, not change habits.”
Already, Sara will be putting her degree to good use. As a Fulbright scholar, she will work in Nicaragua this summer, researching mental health in a region of ongoing conflict. Because the Surani sisters want to make sure the diabetes and childhood obesity prevention messages are reaching people considered highrisk, they have made changes to the curriculum so that it is accessible to as many people as possible throughout Nueces County.
“We started iConquer when Corpus Christi was ranked number 1 in the ‘Fattest Cities of America’ list in Men’s Health magazine in 2010.” Saherish Surani 2018 - JUNE
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“For example, we translated all of our curriculum into Spanish to address this demographic,” said Zoya, 17, who just graduated from Corpus Christi’s Veterans Memorial High School and will attend Harvard University this fall to study mathematics on a pre-med track. “Also, we’re in the process of converting our curriculum into Braille and American Sign Language.” In fact, parents can download health related books and videos for free at www.iconquer.us. “We want to make sure our materials have the biggest impact possible,” Zoya said. Marsha Hutchens, counselor at Veterans Memorial, has known all
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three sisters since they attended the high school. She has seen the impact that iConquer has n elementary students in the Corpus Christi Independent School District. “What I really like about the program is that they actually introduce healthy foods to students at the schools,” Hutchens said. “Also, many students had never even seen certain fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, until (the Surani sisters) brought tomatoes to the presentations. Now, students will go home and tell their parents that they had celery with peanut butter for the first time. I’m also impressed with how much they have expanded the program and continue to think of creative
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“We focus on 3 to 7-year-olds because children usually develop their habits by age 7,so we want to create new habits, not change habits.� Sara Surani
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ways to encourage kids to eat and be healthy.” The sisters’ ages, Zoya added, as well as that of the middle and high school volunteers who assist with the program has worked in their favor in delivering their message to school children.
“Having the program in which youth teaches youth, students are more likely to listen to us and really absorb the information about healthy habits and the dangers of obesity and diabetes and how to prevent them.” Zoya Surani Saherish recalled that both she and Sara were in middle school when they first started planning to launch Project iConquer and found it all to be quite daunting. However, the sisters credit their father, Dr. Salim Surani, Medical Director of the Intensivist Program at Christus Spohn Hospital
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Memorial, and mom, Zehra, who is working on her Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, for guidance and assistance. “Our parents helped us immensely,” Saherish said. “They helped us with how to apply for grants, writing grants and to effectively deliver presentations.” Incidentally, Dr. Surani is also the Board President of iConquer. For the Surani sisters, iConquer has given back to them immeasurably, just as they have provided an infinite impact to the Coastal Bend community. “We gained skills in learning to become better communicators because we had to present our ideas in front of organizations to receive funding, as
well as to the students,” Saherish said. “We’ve also learned about working with others and making sure our ideas were represented, as well as educating and being patient with students at such a young age.” Conflict resolution, technological skills, scheduling and logistics are among the other skills the trio has acquired.
iConquer is a program under the It’s Your Life Foundation, a nonprofit committed to creating a healthier community by educating and encouraging everyone through creative projects. The foundation is funded locally through partnerships and physicians. For more information, visit www.itsyourlifefoundation.org.
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By Kiko Martinez
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or Dr. Aftab Mahmood, becoming a physician was always in the realm of possibilities.
Growing up in Pakistan during his formative years, Mahmood, who is now an oncologist/hematologist practicing in Corpus Christi, Texas, remembers his late father, Zahoor Ahmed, instilling a strong work ethic in him when he was a young man. His father, who worked as a pharmacist and owned his own pharmacy, would take him on weekly trips to visit with doctors where he would discuss the best and most affordable medication options for their patients. “He wanted me to go to see if I would develop an interest in medicine,” Mahmood said. “He had this goal in mind that he wanted all his kids to be physicians.” Becoming a physician was something Ahmed always wanted to do, but never got the opportunity to pursue his dream. Instead, Mahmood would be the one to pick up where his father left off. He decided to follow in his father’s footsteps in the medical field and train to be a doctor. Oncology and hematology became his calling.
“It was my passion to go into a field of medicine where I could alleviate the suffering of cancer patients and improve their quality of life.”
“It was my passion to go into a field of medicine where I could alleviate the suffering of cancer patients and improve their quality of life,” Mahmood said. “It is important to me to make a difference in their lives and give them a realistic fighting chance.” Mahmood started at Baqai Medical University in Karachi, Pakistan, where he earned his medical degree in 1996. After medical school, Mahmood did his
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internal medicine residency and served For the last 13 years, Mahmood, as a junior faculty member at who is board certified in Michigan State University medical oncology and until 2002. Mahmood trained in hematology “The best then packed his and an adjunct clinical part of my job is bags and traveled assistant professor seeing the optimism 700 miles east to of medicine at the Boston to do his University of North and hope in the eyes fellowship training Texas Health of cancer patients after in oncology and Science Center they have completed their hematology at in Fort Worth, cancer treatment and St. Elizabeth’s has been treating they are able to get Medical Center adult patients with back to their normal with Tufts University cancer, leukemia life.” School of Medicine. and blood and immune He was there until 2005, system disorders. He when he moved to Corpus said he strives to provide Christi to start his practice. his patients with innovative chemotherapy, immunotherapy,
targeted treatments and opportunities to be part of clinical trials to improve their outcome. Mahmood works closely with MD Anderson Cancer Center and other university hospitals to refer patients for rare cancers that require a more specialized care not available locally. “The best part of my job is seeing the optimism and hope in the eyes of cancer patients after they have completed their cancer treatment and they are able to get back to their normal life,” Mahmood said. While he has seen many happy endings in his practice, Mahmood would be the first to admit that his
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specific medical field is a very emotional one. For every case of treatable cancer he sees in a patient, there is one that is not. No matter what the prognosis, Mahmood feels it is his responsibility as a physician to provide an emotional support system for the patient, so they will know he is there for them and will fight hard every step of the way. He picked up these principles from his father; he remembers his father would give away medicine to patients in Pakistan who couldn’t afford it. That compassion, he said, is part of who he is as a doctor and as a Muslim. “This is how we were raised,” Mahmood said. “As a Muslim, you want to help humanity in any way you can and provide the care and support to the extent that you can. The Muslim religion expects us to go above and beyond and that’s what I always try to do.” When he first moved to Corpus Christi, Mahmood, who is also certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Palliative Care Medicine, remembers a patient who came to him with Stage 4 lung cancer. Mahmood remembers him because even though his particular type of cancer was “As a Muslim, you incurable, he want to help humanity always had an in any way you can and upbeat attitude. provide the care and support In these cases, to the extent that you can. The Mahmood knows Muslim religion expects us to it’s his job to go above and beyond and provide the best quality-of-life care that’s what I always try to he can for as long do.” as he can. He adds, however, that it’s tough not to become attached to patients like this. “Even if we only see them for a year or two, it feels like we’ve known them for a lot longer,” he said. “Oncology
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can be very depressing when you have thanked him for everything he did for to break bad news and tell someone her father during the last months of his there is nothing you can do to life. make their life longer. For that particular patient, “Those are the he was surrounded by highlights of this job,” “Oncology can his family and fought he said. “That’s what be very depressing hard. When it came keeps me going. You when you have to closer to the end can always make a break bad news and of his life, he was good living on that tell someone there is the one that was feeling.” nothing you can do carrying his family.” to make their life In 2015, Mahmood said he Mahmood left his solo longer...” randomly ran into the practice and joined the daughter of that patient Thomas Spann Clinic to many years after her father become part of a multispecialty passed. She approached him and group. As part of the practice, he is able
to take advantage of bigger laboratories and radiology facilities where he can order x-rays and ultrasounds in house. He advises other medical students interested in oncology and hematology to follow their hearts. The practice is a demanding one, but it is also very fulfilling. “Medical oncology is a rewarding but a difficult specialty of medicine,” Mahmood said. “However, this is a great time to be an oncologist with newer treatments getting approved by the FDA. This specialty is demanding and requires great responsibility, but every one of my patients are worth it.”
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WOMEN’S HEALTH | CORPUS CHRISTI
GENDER PUTS WOMEN MORE AT RISK FOR
STROKE Provided by Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital
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t was more than six years ago when Laura Trammell took the day off from work in the Human
Resources Department at Corpus Christi City Hall for her son’s birthday. It was a day that changed her life. After returning home from delivering cupcakes to her son’s school, she had an event that left her unable to speak or walk. Trammell suffered a brain aneurysm and a stroke. In the battle of the sexes, here’s one that women – often unknowingly – take the lead. About 55,000 more women than men have strokes every year. Strokes kill more women than men annually, making it the third leading cause of death in women. “To say I was surprised about having a stroke is an understatement,” Trammell says. “I always thought a man
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would be more likely to have stroke than me. I found out the hard way that it’s not true.” This gender misconception about strokes is common, according to Dr. Michael Fuentes, Medical Director of Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital. “Most people don’t realize that women suffer strokes more frequently than men,” he says. “If you’re a woman, you share a lot of the same risk factors for strokes as a man, but a woman’s risk is also influenced by hormones, reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth and other gender-related factors.” For example, birth control pills may double the risk of stroke, especially in women with high blood pressure or those that smoke. And, according to the American Heart Association, hormone replacement therapy – once thought to reduce stroke risk – in fact, actually increases it.
A recent study shared through the National Stroke Association listed these factors that have been found to increase stroke risk in women: • Menstruation before the age of 10 • Menopause before age 45 • Low levels of the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS) • Taking oral estrogen or combined oral contraceptives The study also showed a history of pregnancy complications can also indicate higher stroke risk.
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These problems include gestational diabetes and high blood pressure during or immediately after pregnancy.
is power.’ And in this case, the more knowledgeable a woman is about her stroke risk factors, the more she’ll be able to understand how she can be affected and work with her physician or healthcare provider as appropriate to reduce them.”
“Add this to other general risk factors for stroke like family history, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, lack of exercise, and being overweight and it becomes clearer as to why women can be more at risk for stroke than men,” Fuentes says. Trammell was treated at a local hospital for initial care before being transferred to Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital. She spent more than two months receiving rehabilitation to help her recover, which included daily physical, occupational, and speech therapy. “Everyone there was just so wonderful,” she says. “I went into the rehabilitation hospital not able to talk or walk, and I’m able to do those things
Laura Trammell now. My words are hard to come by, but I can speak clearly. My hand and foot on the right side of my body don’t work well, but my arms and legs move. I’m so grateful that I’ve recovered this far.” “Whatever stage of life a woman is in, it’s important that she be aware of all the risk factors of stroke,” Fuentes says. “As it’s often said, ‘knowledge
Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital provides specialized physical rehabilitation services to patients recovering from or living with disabilities caused by injuries, illnesses, or chronic medical conditions. The hospital is ranked among the Top 10% in the nation, and its Stroke Rehabilitation program has been certified by The Joint Commission. For more information, visit CCRH.ernesthealth.com. 5726 Esplanade Dr • Corpus Christi, Texas 78414 • (P) 361.906.3700 • (F) 361.906.3797
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Natural Ways TO MAINTAIN HEALTH AND FITNESS AT 40 By Roger Wilson
A
s humans, the way we look and feel about ourselves holds significant importance in our lives. Everybody wants to look attractive, fit, and smart. Nobody wants to look old or jaded. The truth is that regardless of age, we all can have good posture and a healthy lifestyle if we work towards it. There is this misconception that you must lose all or part of your fitness and beauty as you grow older. This is not true because it boils down to how well we can look after ourselves. In other words, we have a responsibility to look after our body. It is very possible to maintain youthfulness and look bright and sharp even at the age of 40. All of these are possible even without taking antiaging pills. PhentermineClinics.net is an online clinic where people are taught how to remain fit even beyond the age of 40.
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1 Make Your Diet More Heart
Are there things that can be done to remain fit and attractive at age 40? The answer is yes. There are many natural ways in which we can look after ourselves and protect our looks, and some of them will be discussed here. However, these actions require a bit of dedication and discipline. Otherwise, the desired results can not be achieved.
Healthy As human beings, the older we get, the more susceptible we are to cardiovascular diseases or heart infections. Therefore, as you grow older, your diet must change to meet the demands of your age. Try as hard as you can to reduce cholesterol intake or oily food. It exposes your heart to possible danger. As you grow older or edge closer to 40, do not eat foods that will endanger your heart or put it at risk.
2 Give Yourself a Break
There is a strong correlation between stress and aging. Stress causes the adrenaline hormones in the body to surge higher and increases the risk of high blood pressure and aging. To avoid this risk, you must give yourself ample time to relax and reduce your
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stress. The truth is, there will always be pressure (from work and family), and it is up to you to live healthy and relax your muscles.
bed. Don’t get too busy that you forget to eat. It is the chemical energy derived from the food you eat that is converted to mechanical energy used to work and carry out tasks throughout the day.
3 Drink Red Wine
6 Do Regular Exercises
Red wine contains resveratrol (a substance found in grapes that tends to reduce risks of diabetes and liver infections). Red wine can also reduce the risk of brain damage and arterial clogging.
4 Be Aware of Hormonal Factors
This is very important. As you grow older, you have to take into account that the production of some hormones will reduce or stop. Hormonal factors play a large role in anti-aging. Hence, you have to cover for the decline in hormone production by supplementing with pills and good food.
5 Eat Breakfast Within One Hour of
Rising In other words, do not negotiate or joke with your meals. Try as hard as you can to eat one hour after getting up from
Regular exercise is good for your overall health. Muscles are built, and fat is burned when you workout frequently. Also, your bones become stronger, and it helps to preserve your youthfulness and young looks. Avoid sitting for long hours. Even if your job doesn’t permit you to visit the gym, studies have shown that walking for about 10 minutes every day can be helpful. In the office, try to move around from time to time and avoid staying glued to your seat. Your back needs it, and it helps your productivity too. If you can afford it, you can employ a fitness trainer to guide you through your workout routine.
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INFORMED PATIENT | SAN ANTONIO
DO YOU RECOGNIZE ANY OF THESE
EARLY WARNING SIGNS OF HEARING LOSS? Provided by ENT
O
ne of the worst things about hearing loss is that it happens so gradually. While some people experience a sudden decrease in hearing, in most cases the hearing loss is more subtle. The gradual nature of hearing loss means that many people experience a marked decrease in their hearing before they notice the problem. By that time the hearing loss can be quite profound, and that can make the condition harder to treat. As with any medical problem, the sooner you get help with your hearing loss, the more options you will have to treat it. Staying alert and watching for the early warning signs of hearing loss is important. If you notice any of these signs, you should make an appointment with your doctor. • Asking people around you to speak up or talk more clearly • Being unable to keep up with conversations, especially in public settings or noisy surroundings
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• Watching people’s faces and watching for visual cues instead of relying on speech alone • Struggling or straining to hear the people around you
• Accusing those around you of mumbling or speaking too softly • Having visitors complain that your stereo or television is too loud • Not answering questions or having people repeat their inquiries to get your attention • Hearing ringing in your ears
Avoiding social situations because you are worried you will not be able to keep up with the conversation You should also schedule a hearing examination if you have a family history of hearing loss or if you are taking medications that have been known to impact hearing. These medications are known as ototoxic drugs, and you should ask your medical provider if any of your drugs fall into that category. You are also at a higher risk of hearing loss if you are diabetic, have a circulation problem, heart disease or suffer from thyroid problems. Being exposed to loud noises, either now or in the past, could also put you at risk of hearing loss.
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Psychological Tricks for Weight Loss by Albert Lopez
W
eight loss has become a very important topic. Over the years, people have been ill and unhealthy because of excess body weight. There is a long list of sicknesses and diseases associated with having too much fat in the body. In fact, there is a popular belief that fat people are lazy. Whether this is true or false is another debate entirely. What we however know is that excess weight reduces the activeness of a person. In lieu of this, different people are taking active steps in burning fat, shedding weight and staying healthy. While we already know of some physical and mental ways of getting rid of excess weight, it could still come as a surprise to a few people that there are psychological tactics employed to achieve this same result. Nine Psychological Tricks for Weight Loss Psychology is simply the study of human and animal behavior. Weight loss has a psychological angle to it.
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Weight loss doctors in the US have confirmed that the tricks listed below can help achieve meaningful weight loss result.
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Think of exercise as a fun activity We already know what role physical exercise plays in weight loss. Physical exercise helps to build muscle pressure and reduce fat. While some people view physical exercise as a tough practice, psychology says it must be seen as a fun activity or a type of relaxation before any result can be achieved. Therefore, to burn fat and shed weight, do not see physical exercise as stress. Rather, see it as an opportunity to have some fun.
2
Pay attention to what you are eating This is very crucial. Don’t just eat everything that comes your way. You must take time to scrutinize every meal before it gets to your mouth. In fact, it is better and safer to have a nutritionist who will guide you and advise you accordingly.
3
Psych yourself up for eating less This is equally important. If you naturally have a large appetite, you must try to make conscious efforts to eat less if you are really serious about losing weight. This decision must come from deep down in your heart and you have to convince yourself about reducing your food intake.
4
Use a smaller plate This could be a bit funny, but it is somehow correct. Many people believe there is a connection between the size of the plate and how much food one eats. The smaller the plate, the less food you are likely to eat. This guides and helps you reach your weight loss target. With a bigger plate, one could be tempted to fill it up, leading to more food consumption.
5
Understand what causes obesity On your own part, you may have to do a little research on why people get excessively fat. This will help guide you to avoid the same mistakes they made.
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For the record, obesity sets in when the BMI exceeds 30. Usually, obesity increases the risk of health problems and it is caused by consuming too much fat and sugar without burning them through physical activity or exercise.
6
Be kind to yourself This involves knowing your limits and not doing things that will endanger your life or put your health at risk. Be kind to yourself and know what to do and what not to do, things to drink and what not to drink, and things that you should avoid eating.
7
Revisit what you know about weight loss This involves consciously reminding yourself about the inherent dangers of excessive weight. You need to constantly remind yourself about victims of obesity and how they found themselves in their present situation.
8
Ditch dieting This means that you should ignore following a diet. Psychologically, if you eat what you feel like eating and not necessarily what you are compelled to eat, you do not accumulate too many fats. However, when you follow a strict diet plan, you may likely have excess weight issues.
9
Steer clear of opaque food containers
This means that you should not eat any food enclosed in a container that you cannot see through. If you must eat sealed or enclosed food, the container should be transparent.
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INFORMED PATIENT | REGIONAL
ADVANCES IN THE TREATMENT OF MIGRAINES by Jorge E. Mendizabal, MD
T
he severe throbbing head pain combined with the debilitating nausea and extreme sensitivity to light and sound are a few of the symptoms of a migraine headache. There is a sense of hopelessness in the face of a draining , yet silent illness. Today, 38 million Americans are affected by migraine headaches. Migraines remain the most common neurological disorder in the general population. In a Neurology Practice, migraines are more common than all cases of multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s combined!
of the biology of this illness led to the development of triptans in the late 1980s and early 1990s. These group of drugs were fine tuned in the lab for the relief of acute migraines. Nearly 30 years later, triptans remain the most important advance in the field of migraine therapeutics at the turn of the century. Besides medication, avoidance of common triggers (certain foods, drinks, caffeine, sleep pattern disruption, stress, barometric pressure changes) and regular exercise remain just as important in reducing the burden of migraines.
Although not considered a deadly disease, migraines remain the third leading cause of transient disability in adults younger than 50. Migraines attack individuals in the prime of their lives and it is a common cause of lost productivity. It is not just loss of productivity at work; migraineurs miss out on life as well.
Most individuals suffering from migraines experience episodic headache attacks. In a smaller proportion of patients, nevertheless, migraines can occur more frequently. Approximately 3.2 million Americans suffer from chronic migraines. This is defined as migraine attacks that occur more than fifteen days per month for a minimum of three consecutive months.
Despite these statistics, for many years, migraines remained relegated from the advances of modern medicine. New developments in the understanding
Chronic migraines can be even more devastating. It is extremely debilitating and it impacts the ability of an individual to live a regular life.
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Preventative or prophylactic medications are used to reduce the number of headache days and its severity. When properly used, prophylactic drugs can restore the quality of life in individuals affected by chronic migraines. Until recently, physicians prescribing drugs for migraine prevention had to rely on agents which were originally designed with other indications in mind (anti-hypertensive medications, anticonvulsants, anti-depressants, etc.). Several of these agents were thoroughly studied in control trials and they are indeed effective in reducing the burden of chronic migraines. Based on this, medications like propranolol (Inderal ®), divalproex (Depakote®) or topiramate (Topamax®) received endorsement by the FDA for the prophylaxis of migraines. Despite their effectiveness, some of these drugs can prove difficult to use and the physician must be aware of their potential side effects before prescribing them. The first decade of this century saw the development of a powerful agent for the prevention of migraine:
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Onabotulinum toxin (Botox®). A fortuitous observation of a clear reduction of migraine attacks in patients receiving this medication for cosmetic purposes led to the clinical trials eventually resulting in an FDA indication of Botox® for the management of chronic migraines in October of 2010. We now have a better understanding of the complex chemical cascade resulting in a migraine attack. A series of biochemical events results in the establishment of sterile inflammation of the blood vessels surrounding the brain. This inflammation results in the activation of nerve terminals surrounding these blood vessels which in turn transmit this information to the sensory cortex. The result is a full-blown migraine attack with all of its associated symptoms. Attempts to modulate these pain signals before they reach the sensory cortex have led to the concept known as
“neuromodulation”. External electronic devices are now available to abort a migraine attack and to reduce its frequency. They include transcutaneous electrical stimulators, transcranial magnetic stimulators and external vagus nerve stimulators. Although effective, these devices have experienced limited clinical utilization and are still considered experimental by most insurance carriers. A chemical known as calcitonin-gene related peptide (CGRP) is an important mediator in the complex series of events leading to a migraine attack. Initial attempts to design drugs that block CGRP were not successful and these agents proved to exhibit liver toxicity in humans. In the early 2000s, the development of monoclonal antibodies (MAB) revolutionized the treatment of certain autoimmune illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. For the first time, scientists had the
ability to design specific antibodies targeting key steps in the development of diseases. Following this model, a group of MABs were designed to target CGRP or its receptor in the nerve terminals of the migraine brain. This is the first time a drug has been specifically tailored to prevent migraines. The results of the clinical trials have unequivocally demonstrated these agents are effective in the prevention of migraines and reduced its burden. With the FDA approval of erenumab in May of 2018 and the upcoming release of fremanezumab and galcanezumab , a new era begins in the management of migraine headaches. In 2018, migraines should no longer be considered “just another headache”. Science has given us the tools to bring relief to the person affected by this debilitating illness and to restore their function as a productive member of society.
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PROSTATE CANCER TREATMENTS:
What Options Do You Have? by Harry Southworth
T
he word ‘cancer’ does not bring a smile to anyone’s face. Rather, most people view it as an immediate death sentence, the gravest of prognoses. The good news is that every day, mankind is getting closer to more effective treatment options, which brings us closer to permanent cures for different types of tumors. Prostate malignancy affects one in every seven men, and the rates are said to be headed for a rise. With the proper diagnostic knowledge, men can get diagnosed earlier, in order to improve their quality of life. Real-Life Case Mr. Shupert, 64, was a retired school teacher who was working as an essay writer at olatcc.com. br among his peers. He went to the doctor because of his sudden loss of appetite. His physical exam revealed nothing, although Mr. Shupert told the doctor that he sometimes felt a sharp, throbbing pain when urinating. His family history was clear
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of any neoplastic diseases, and his laboratory results showed no signs of inflammation. His red blood cells were a little below normal, but the patient said it was likely due to stress. He had worked the weekend before building a hen house for his wife’s poultry. Taking into account his descent (he is African-American) and pain complaint, the doctor did a biopsy of his prostate. Results revealed an in situ adenocarcinoma, a glandular tumor. An operation was carried out to remove the gland, followed by a round of chemotherapy to kill off any metastasized cells. The patient was discharged in a healthy condition. Medical check-ups twice a year reveal absence of any abnormal cells. Overview Prostate cancer is a disease characterized by abnormal growth of cells in the prostate gland. The prostate gland is responsible for secreting essential parts of seminal fluid. It is a two-lobed organ located on either side
of the urethra. Abnormal cells grow and outnumber normal cells, causing cell death and reduced functionality. They may even spread to nearby organs. This is why any changes in the prostate directly affect passage of urine in males and possibly sexual function. All men are advised to see their local physicians in the event of noticing any symptom that can be a cancer sign. The general prostate cancer symptoms aren’t very different from other cancer symptoms: • Fatigue • Loss of appetite • Loss of weight • There are some “relatively” specific prostate malignancy symptoms. They are considered relatively specific because they can lead to differential diagnoses for other organ abnormalities. These include: • Painful urination/ejaculation. • Decreased sexual performance • Blood in urine • Difficulty in passing urine
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Treatment Options After a biopsy result has confirmed the presence of abnormal cells, it is of utmost importance to immediately consider treatment options. The choice of treatment largely depends on the stage of progression of the cancer. Other factors that need to be considered include:
or all parts of the prostate gland. It is an excellent choice for in situ cancers, i.e. neoplastic cells that haven’t spread to any other organ. Low-risk prostate tumors can be treated by removing part of the organ (subtotal prostatectomy) while for high-risk malignancies, the total removal of the gland is mostly advised.
The age of the patient Presence of underlying conditions that may pose as contraindications to certain treatment options
Internal Radiation Therapy Also known as brachytherapy, it involves placing a sealed radioactive material close to or inside the area of the body that needs treatment. It is one of the more effective treatment options for prostate malignant tumors. There are two forms of IRT, short-term and long-term. In short-term IRT, the radioactive material is administered via a central line for a period of time, then withdrawn. For long-term IRT, however, radioactive seeds are implanted in the patient close to
Genetic factor Presence of other risk factors that might affect treatment (lifestyle, diet) The following options, including others, are available for prostate cancer treatment: Prostatectomy This deals with the removal of some
the tumor site and left there for life. Radioactivity of the seeds diminishes to nothing overtime. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy involves the use of a combination of highly specific drugs to combat the neoplastic disease. Drugs are administered in accordance with certain regimens and can be used for curative purposes (in nonaggressive prostate cancer) or reduction of symptoms (in aggressive or metastasized cancer), also called palliative method. There are a lot of other options for male patients, but thanks to the constant cancer research, new methods to detect cancer earlier are being developed every day. This should be viewed as a big step towards the improvement of the quality of life for the patients.
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The Top
10 Best Foods for Glowing Skin by Dr. Tom Balshi
A
s human beings, the texture and quality of our skin are emblematic of our overall quality of life. In fact, people can tell the quality of food you eat by merely looking at your skin. To maintain good skin, a great deal of deliberate and conscious efforts are required. A combination of nutrient-rich food and decent body cream will go a long way in turning your dream of having glowing skin into a reality. Some people spend a fortune just to ensure their skin is properly cared for. Although body cream and cosmetics are highly important in maintaining good skin, nothing compares to eating clean and eating right. With the right combination of appropriate nutrients, your skin will look untarnished and unblemished. Our focus in this text is to analyze the nutritional value, constitute, and overall property of certain food items that have been proven to be of great benefit to the human skin. Ten Superfoods for Your Skin Here is a list of the top ten food
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items for glowing skin. Delray Beach dermatologist, a renowned skin doctor and physician has endorsed these food items and approved their consumption for healthy and unblemished skin.
1
Avocado Avocado is also called an alligator pear. This self-pollinating fruit is predominantly produced in Mexico albeit it grows in many other tropical areas. It is a great provider of energy and avocado oil is also used in the production of body creams as well as other cosmetic products. It is also rich in fat, carbohydrate, and protein.
2
Dark Chocolate The major dichotomy between black chocolates and milk chocolates is that it contains little or no dairy product. However, the composition of cocoa solids in this form of chocolate is high. Also, the sugar content in this type of chocolate is relatively lower than in other types of chocolate. Dark chocolate also has anti-oxidizing properties which makes it suitable for tackling diabetes. It also works wonders on the human skin and reduces the risks of high blood pressure.
3
Tomatoes This is a very popular vegetable consumed by nearly all nations of the world. There are different ways of eating tomatoes. While some people like to eat it raw, others use it as an ingredient in sauces, fried eggs, and salads. All in all, tomatoes help the body in many ways.
4
Oranges This is one of the most popular fruits in the world. The health benefits of the citrus fruit are numerous. Oranges are a very good source of vitamin C which is one of the needed nutrients for glowing skin. Oranges are also beneficial to pregnant women as well as boosting the quality of sperm in the masculine gender. Antiaging properties, collagen formation, immunity, and prevention of diabetes are some of the other benefits of consuming oranges.
5
Carrots Carrots are a root vegetable that promote the health of the skin. Consuming a lot of carrots helps to repair skin tissue as it contains carotene which is an antioxidant that protects the
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skin from the dangers of the sun and repairs damaged skin tissue. Carrots are sweet and easy to eat. It is an important ingredient in many food and salads. Carrots also help the body fight against cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
Papaya This is one nutrient-packed fruit. If you care about your hair and skin, papaya is one fruit you should eat regularly. It contains papain which is an enzyme that helps to get rid of dead skin cells and keep the skin moist.
6
Beetroot Beetroot helps to improve the human hair and skin. It works by helping to eliminate pores and dark facial spots. Beetroot juice also helps the body eliminate toxic substances; drinking a glass of beetroot juice regularly is highly encouraged.
food substances that work wonders on the human skin.
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Sweet Potatoes Vitamin C is needed for healthy, glowing skin and sweet potatoes are one very easy way to get enough of this nutrient. Sweet potatoes are also very rich in magnesium, zinc, and potassium. Just like carrots, sweet potatoes are one of the beta-carotene
10
Salmon Having dry skin is a problem. At every point in time, the human skin must contain a certain degree of moisture. Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acid which the skin needs to stay moist and hydrated. Salmon also helps lower inflammation.
Blueberries It is rich in vitamins A, C, and E. Blueberries help to brighten up the skin, and are a very useful antioxidant. This fruit has anti-aging properties, and it is also good for the heart.
Tom Balshi is a Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery expert. His goal is to provide patients with a fabulous health care experience. He treats every patient the way he would want to be treated, with courtesy, kindness and respect. e is known as one of the best delray beach dermatologist.
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NEWS
GARS
TM
(GENETIC ADDICTION RISK SCORE)
TEST
SAN ANTONIO – It’s here- a genetic test – known as the Genetic Addiction Risk Score (GARSTM) –to identify an individual’s predisposition to addictive, compulsive and impulsive behaviors. “GARSTM has been 40 years in the making,” said Justin Jones, CEO of San Antonio-based Geneus Health. “It was developed by Dr. Kenneth Blum, who is widely recognized as one of the co-founders of the gene linked to alcoholism in 1990. We have finally gotten to a point where technology and reduced cost caught up to the research and science to bring this test to consumers.”
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IDENTIFIES PREDISPOSED ADDICTIONS TO SUBSTANCE AND NON-SUBSTANCE CRAVINGS TO HELP INDIVIDUALS MANAGE RISKS TEST WAS DEVELOPED BY DR. KENNETH BLUM, NOTED FOR HIS STUDIES IN THE GENETICS OF ALCOHOLISM
When asked about what GARSTM covers, Jones added “it looks at a person’s addictive predisposition to alcohol, opioids, sex, gambling, online gaming, and much more. Genetics only make up 50 percent of the equation. Your environment makes up the other half,” Jones said. “What is great about this test is that it alerts you to hazards and risks so you can avoid falling prey to the behavior. You can change and alter your lifestyle based on the outcomes of this test. You will now have an indication of what to stay away from to live a healthier life.” Take children for example, “when kids sit and game for hours at a time,
dopamine is constantly released,” he said. “Then they get irritated and upset when their parents tell them to get off their devices because they’re not getting the dopamine.” The online gaming addiction has shown to be as troublesome as a heroin addiction. If parents know if their child is predisposed to gaming addiction, they can manage their child’s playing time so the addiction does not consume the child. A testing kit can be ordered from www.geneushealth.com, and from the comfort of home, a simple cheek swab sample is taken and sent back to Geneus Health Genetic Center where
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it is tested and analyzed for specific gene variations associated with these harmful behaviors. Results are ready within seven to ten days, and a genetic consultant contacts the individual to discuss the findings of the GARS™ report.
For more information about the GARS ™ Test, visit www.GeneusHealth.com or call (844) 800-2334.
About Dr. Kenneth Blum, Chief Scientific Officer and Chairman Dr. Kenneth Blum received his PhD in Neuropharmacology from New York Medical College and is a graduate from Columbia University and New Jersey College of Medicine. He trained at
the Institute of Behavioral Genetics, Colorado University at Boulder, Colorado. He also received a doctor of humane letters from St Martins University. He has published over 550 abstracts, peer– reviewed articles and books (17). He has been the recipient of many
grants and awards including a Life-Time Achievement in Addiction Medicine (Holistic Institute on Addiction Studies); Marquis Who Who’s Life –Time Achievement Award, and Presidential Award for Scientific Excellence (National Council of Alcohol & Drug Abuse Councilors), Scientific Achievement Award (City of Life Miami) and Best Abstract (2012) Award ASRA (Pain); Path Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award (2014) and Honorary Full Professor (Eötvös Loránd University, Institute of Psychology, Budapest, Hungary) and American Society of Addiction Medicine Millennium Laboratory Award among many others. Dr. Blum coined the term “Reward Deficiency Syndrome“ in 1995 and it is now in Microsoft Dictionary, Gates Scientific dictionary and featured in the SAGE Encyclopedia of Abnormal Psychology (2017).
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HEALTH & WELLNESS | MCALLEN
- IV THERAPY -
SAFE AND
EFFECTIVE Provided by Cryo Body Perfections
I
ntravenous nutrient therapy (IV therapy) helps to reduce the symptoms of numerous health conditions, boosts energy and immunity, and fights the effects of aging naturally. Despite its proven track record, people who have not received vitamins intravenously before may have concerns about the safety of this procedure. Prospective patients may also not understand how the process of IV therapy works or the conditions it treats. When a person comes in for an IV therapy session, a healthcare professional trained in its administration, inserts a small needle into a vein in the arm. He or she then removes the needle and replaces it with IV tubing connected to a bag containing the liquid nutrients. It may take anywhere from 90 minutes to four hours for the bag to empty. Most people schedule weekly sessions for several months to receive the maximum benefit from IV therapy. The procedure is particularly helpful
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for people with vitamin deficiencies and those who have faulty digestive systems that can't process food, medication, and vitamins normally. During each IV therapy session, patients receive a combination of vitamins and minerals that go directly into their bloodstream. This method allows for complete absorption, which in turn helps bring about faster symptom relief and an overall feeling of increased well-being. Most often, naturopaths and other types of holistic healthcare professionals perform IV therapy. In addition to improving the health of people with serious issues like cancer and heart disease, those with the following conditions typically show significant improvement after undergoing IV therapy: ·• Asthma ·• Chronic fatigue and adrenal fatigue ·• Depression and anxiety ·• Fibromyalgia
·• ·• ·• ·• • ·•
Hormone imbalance Migraine headaches Muscle spasms Seasonal allergies Sinus problems Upper respiratory infections
Can Anyone Benefit From IV Therapy? IV therapy is beneficial for most people, regardless of whether they are chronically ill or generally healthy. However, a small percentage of the population has a G6PD deficiency, a condition that makes them ineligible to receive vitamin C intravenously. Healthcare providers who offer IV therapy routinely screen for this disorder, although it is quite rare, to ensure that people whose bodies can't tolerate high doses of vitamin C don't receive it. If medical testing shows an allergy to a particular nutrient, the provider excludes it from IV therapy. People who know that they have specific
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allergies must disclose this before starting treatment to prevent an adverse reaction. Additionally, the provider may need to withhold some nutrients from people with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or cardiovascular concerns.
Fast Benefits and Minimal Side Effects One reason treatment with IV therapy and the Myers cocktail is so promising is that there are few side effects associated with it. When asked about complications, people who have completed treatment most often state that they occasionally felt sore at the site of the injection. Doctors monitor patients before, during, and after the procedure to make sure they are tolerating it well. If any complications do arise, the doctor will stop administration of the IV until he or she is certain the
patient is feeling well. Should problems persist, the IV therapy specialist will adjust the mixture of nutrients the patient receives. Since all patients receive close monitoring during IV therapy, the problem is easy to correct.
Many people report feeling a surge of energy immediately after completing a session of IV therapy, while others say they feel significantly better in a matter of weeks. For the majority of people, IV therapy is a win-win situation.
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EVENTS | CORPUS CHRISTI
7TH ANNUAL GULF COAST MULTIDISCIPLINARY PHARMACOTHERAPY CONFERENCE
Thanks to all who attended!
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LOSE WEIGHT, NOT HOPE.
Nilesh A. Patel, MD, FACS
Subhash Reddy, MD
Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery •
WLS may improve obesity related health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and obstructive sleep apnea, among others.
• Diabetes cured in 80% of patients and resolved or improved in 90% of patients. •
Hypertension is cured in 62% of patients and resolved or improved in 78.5%
• Obstructive sleep apnea is cured in 86% of patients • Risk of death is decreased by 89% • Weight Loss Surgery (WLS) can enhance fertility and lead to successful full term pregnancies. • Average weight loss is 50-70% of excess body weight • Improvement in arthritis with reduction in pain and increased mobility. • WLS is covered by 80% of insurances •
Texas Bariatric Specialists accepts most major insurances including Medicare.
BypassDoc.com | 877.459.7065
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San Antonio | Austin | Corpus Christi | San Angelo Kileen | New Braunfels | Del Rio | Laredo
GOOD-BYE DIABETES GOOD-BYE SLEEP APNEA HELLO WEIGHT LOSS MDMONTHLY.COM
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