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GOOD DENTAL CARE: IT’S ABOUT MORE THAN YOUR TEETH
CAN YOU REDUCE YOUR RISK OF GETTING A CATARACT?
WHY THOSE “COMFORT SHOES” AREN’T WORKING FOR YOU
MINI-STROKES INCREASE RISK OF PTSD
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“4Health” is an editorial-based medical magazine (the "Magazine") provided by Moo Publishing Corp. and by other sources. DISCLAIMER This Magazine is for consumer educational use only. Nothing contained in this Magazine is or should be considered, or used, as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The opinions in this Magazine are here to educate consumers on health care and medical issues that may affect consummers’ daily lives. This Magazine does not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing or other professional health care advice, diagnosis or treatment. The Magazine advises readers to always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions regarding personal health or medical conditions. Never disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read in this Magazine. If you have, or
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Good Dental Care: It’s About More Than Your Teeth Oral Care Critical to a Long and Enjoyable Life
11 10 If You’ve Had a Mini-Stroke, It May be Time to Talk to a Counselor
Study Shows Mini-Strokes Increase Risk of PTSD
12 Is Medical Marijuana a Miracle Cure for Severe Childhood Epilepsy?
Studies Show Promise, but FDA Advises Caution
16 Can You Reduce Your Risk of Getting a Cataract?
Tips to Keep Your Vision Clear
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LIPOSUCTION THE MOST POPULAR COSMETIC PROCEDURE: WHY?
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INTRODUCING MESODERM THERAPY FROM VK SKIN SPA
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DENTAL PROBLEMS COULD BE CAUSING YOUR HEADACHES
How You Could Improve Your Appearance
By Dr. Namik Yusufov, DDS, MDT
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STOMACHACHE? IT COULD BE COLITIS
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BACK OR NECK PAIN? HEAD TRAUMA?
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WHAT’S CAUSING YOUR BELLY FAT?
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By Dr. Sam Weissman
Dr. Sundaresan Offers Experienced Neurological Care
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DO YOUR HANDS MAKE YOU LOOK OLDER THAN YOU’D LIKE? Dr. Roman Rayham on a New Treatment that Takes Years Off the Appearance of Hands
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DOES EXPERIENCE MATTER WHEN IT COMES TO DOCTORS?
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FEEL BETTER TODAY WITH NEW, NON-INVASIVE DEPRESSION TREATMENT
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PAINFUL LEGS AFTER EXERCISE? IT COULD BE PAD
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LIPOSUCTION THE MOST POPULAR COSMETIC PROCEDURE: WHY? HOW YOU COULD IMPROVE YOUR APPEARANCE
■■■ Lynn Merrell Did you know that out of all the plastic procedures available, including breast augmentation, eyelid surgery, and tummy tucks, liposuction is the most popular? It’s true. According to a 2013 survey by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), there were 363,912 liposuction procedures completed in the U.S. that year — up 16.3 percent from the year before. Why is liposuction so popular? Could it be that you, too, could feel a lot better about your appearance if you tried it?
WHAT IS LIPOSUCTION? Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery that breaks up and “sucks out” fat deposits from various parts of the body. The surgeon uses a tool called a “cannula,” which is essentially a hollow tube that’s inserted underneath the skin (through a small cut). The cannula is attached to a vacuum-like suction device that pulls the fat out of the body. Sometimes surgeons may use other tools to help make the liposuction easier, such as an ultrasound, which can help liquefy the fat so it’s easier to remove. A laser may be used for
the same reason. For all procedures, surgeons use anesthetic to numb areas of the body where the procedure is performed.
WHAT CAN LIPOSUCTION DO? The procedure helps get rid of excess fat so you have a more contoured, smooth appearance. Common areas that are treated include: ■ Thighs ■ Hips and buttocks ■ Stomach and waist (“love handles”) ■ Upper arms ■ Back ■ Legs (inner knee, calves, ankles) ■ Chest ■ Cheeks, chin, and neck Liposuction is not made to help you lose weight. Rather, it’s a cosmetic procedure that helps reshape problem areas that are resistant to other fat-reduction activities, such as diet and exercise. It’s also used to help remove benign fatty tumors, and to treat gynecomastia (enlarged breasts in males).
HOW WELL DOES IT WORK? Liposuction is very effective at removing fat deposits in small areas. Results are usually visible immediately after surgery, with more
improvement over time. A 2015 study found that the procedure, particularly when used on the hips, flanks, and thighs, has a high rate of success, with minimal risks. As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks, such as bleeding, infections, blood clots, and reactions to the anesthesia. In some cases, the skin may also appear bumpy if the fat removal was uneven, or fluid may accumulate in the affected area, causing pockets that need to be drained. There is also a risk that the fat will come back — usually in a different place, such as the upper abdomen, or around the shoulders and arms. A 2012 study, though, found that as long as patients exercise regularly and avoid weight gain, they can avoid this side effect.
AREAS WHERE LIPOSUCTION CAN HELP In addition to those areas mentioned above, liposuction can also help you get rid of that double chin and slim the jawline, remove bulges that appear around bras and swimsuit tops, and smooth the appearance of swollenlooking ankles (though it’s not a solution for edema). Talk to your plastic surgeon about your options. You may find that liposuction is the treatment you were looking for. www.4health.net
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GOOD DENTAL CARE: IT’S ABOUT MORE THAN YOUR TEETH ORAL CARE CRITICAL TO A LONG AND ENJOYABLE LIFE
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Morgan Rice
When we move into our senior years, we tend to look back on our lives and reflect. What are we proud of? What moments do we remember? And yes, what do we regret? In a recent survey of those over the age of 65, you may be surprised to learn that two-thirds of the respondents regretted one thing — not looking after their teeth more carefully. Why would that be?
U. S. ADULTS SUFFERING TOO MANY CAVITIES The British Dental Health Foundation published the findings as part of their National Smile Month, noting that despite the increased awareness of the benefits of good oral health, many people still neglect their teeth. In addition to finding that seniors regretted not looking after their teeth earlier in life, the survey also showed that one in four people were visiting the dentist less frequently than they used to. If you think that we’re doing much better here in the U.S., think again. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), findings from a 2011–2012 survey showed that among adults aged 20–64, a total of 91 percent had cavities and 27 percent had untreated tooth decay. The National Institute
of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that 17.2 percent of seniors over the age of 65 have periodontal disease, and that for 10.58 percent, that disease is moderate or severe. Many of us are not seeing the dentist as often as we should, either. According to the American Dental Association, in 2014, about a fifth of those surveyed said they probably would not see the dentist over the next year. Yet according to a Delta Dental Oral Health and Well-Being survey, those who go to the dentist at least once a year reported feeling better about their lives, overall.
IT’S ABOUT MORE THAN YOUR TEETH Oral care is critical all of our lives, but becomes even more so as we age, since bacteria can easily enter the body through the mouth, teeth, and gums. Indeed, a number of studies have linked dental bacteria with bacteria in other areas of the body, and can contribute to worsening diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and dementia. Simple problems with the teeth can lead to difficult chewing, which can then affect nutrition. Losing the teeth and needing replacements can also be difficult, especially if dentures are ill fitting and lead to pain and discomfort. They can also make it difficult to chew and swallow, which can lead to the avoidance of social activities.
Though we all know we should take good care of our teeth, what we may forget is that the health of our mouths affects our health and well being overall. In a way, we’re not just caring for our teeth when we go to the dentist — we’re making sure that we can enjoy long, productive lives. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “The compartmentalization involved in viewing the mouth separately from the rest of the body must cease, because oral heath affects general health by causing considerable pain and suffering and by changing what people eat, their speech, and their quality of life and well-being. Oral health also has an effect on other chronic diseases.”
YOUR ORAL HEALTH MIRRORS YOUR OVERALL HEALTH In fact, according to recent research, the health of your mouth mirrors the health of your body as a whole. The Academy of General Dentistry reports that there’s a relationship between gum disease and stroke and heart disease. Women with gum disease have higher incidences of pre-term, low-birth-weight babies. So in addition to brushing and flossing every day, it’s best to see a dentist once a year to keep an eye out for any developments that may affect your health. Won’t you make an appointment today? www.4health.net
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IF YOU’VE HAD A MINI-STROKE, IT MAY BE TIME TO TALK TO A COUNSELOR STUDY SHOWS MINI-STROKES INCREASE RISK OF PTSD ■■■ Gordon Barclay If your doctor tells you that you had a “mini-stroke,” you may breathe a sigh of relief. After all, “mini” means small, which might lead to believe that you suffered something minor, and that you escaped the serious “major” stroke. It is true that mini strokes block blood flow for only a few minutes, whereas major strokes can block blood flow for much longer. But mini-strokes are still dangerous. They not only increase your risk of having a major stroke, they can also increase your risk of suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
from after a violent attack, or after going through a natural disaster. But PTSD can affect anyone who has been traumatized by an event, even a mini-stroke. In a recent study, researchers asked just over 100 patients who had suffered a mini-stroke (also called a transient ischemic attack, or TIA) to fill out a series of questionnaires. Their answers showed the following: ■ About 30 percent disclosed symptoms of PTSD. ■ About 14 percent showed significantly reduced mental quality of
life. ■ Those with PTSD showed higher signs of anxiety and depression,
WHAT IS PTSD? When you think of PTSD, you may think of what soldiers suffer from when they return from combat, or what someone may suffer
as well as reduced quality of life. Researchers concluded that experiencing a mini-stroke increases the risk for PTSD. They noted that those who overestimated their stroke www.4health.net
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what had happened. These are all behaviors that can increase risk of PTSD. Instead, it’s better to try the following steps:
FEAR OF HAVING A SECOND STROKE If you’ve been diagnosed with a mini-stroke or TIA, you know how it goes — the doctor warns you that you are at a higher risk of having a full-blown stroke than someone who hasn’t had a TIA. In fact, according to the National Stroke Association, 40 percent of people who have a TIA will have an actual stroke — and usually within a short period of time. Indeed, doctors see mini-strokes as warning signs. They reveal that something’s not quite right with that person’s circulation, and that medical attention is needed to keep a blood clot from happening again. In any type of stroke, a blood clot stops the blood flow to the brain, but in a mini-stroke, it usually doesn’t cause brain damage. A fullblown stroke, however, can cause long-term disability and brain damage, and even death. That knowledge is enough to make anyone a little anxious. In this study, researchers found that it was so frightening, one in three of the patients developed PTSD.
■ Get help: You’ve just experienced a traumatic event. It may help
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GOOD WAYS TO DEAL WITH A MINI-STROKE The researchers noted that one of the reasons some patients experienced PTSD was that they had poor coping skills. Anytime we’re faced with something frightening, we have to find a way to manage how we feel about it, so those feelings don’t end up paralyzing us. The study revealed that some of the patients were denying the problem, acting like it was no big deal, or they were blaming themselves for
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to talk to friends and family, but realize that they may not understand what you’re going through. Counseling or group therapy may be a better approach. Take control where you can: It helps to feel like you are in control of your health. You can choose to exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, and get a good night’s sleep every night. Focus on those things you can change to help yourself feel better. Find ways to deal with stress: You’re going to experience symptoms of stress, so it’s time to find ways to deal with them. In addition to exercise, meditation, yoga, art and music therapy, spending time with a pet, engaging in enjoyable hobbies, and more can all help you relax and cope with stressful feelings. Accept what happened to you: Realize that there are many others who have gone through what you’re going through, and accept your feelings. Don’t blame yourself or feel like you “should” feel differently. Simply deal with the feelings you have in a healthy way. Follow up with your doctor: Keep in touch with your doctor to make sure you’re monitoring your health. Make sure your medications are working as they should, and discuss any other concerns you may have. Most strokes occur within a few months of a mini-stroke, so be sure to monitor yourself carefully during this time, with your doctor’s help.
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Gastroenterology | 4HEALTH15
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STOMACHACHE? IT COULD BE COLITIS WHY YOU SHOULD SEE YOUR GASTROENTEROLOGIST TODAY Have you ever had a really bad stomachache, accompanied by diarrhea or other intestinal complaints? Most of us have at one time or another. Usually, it passes and we go on with our lives, but sometimes, it can signal something a little more serious. Colitis, which is the inflammation of the mucus membrane located in the large intestine, is one of the most common gastroenterological diseases. It may be only a temporary illness, related to an infection or medication, or it may be part of the spectrum of inflammatory bowel disease, which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Today, we will discuss with gastrointestinal specialist, Dr. Sam Weissman, how colitis can be dangerous, and why we shouldn’t ignore it.
WHY DO MOST PEOPLE WHO EXPERIENCE THE SYMPTOMS OF COLITIS FAIL TO CALL THEIR DOCTORS? There are many reasons. First, the symptoms — which include flatulence, rumbling in the abdomen, bloating, spastic pain and diarrhea — generally feel quite normal and harmless. One may think that he or she ate something that wasn’t fresh and after several days, everything will go back to normal. Second, over-the-counter drugs, available to anyone in the pharmacy, quickly eliminate the symptoms of colitis, which can make us think that it’s gone away. Third, many patients, especially women, simply feel shy and nervous about contacting their doctors about such a delicate, personal problem. Fourth, people don’t know that neglecting colitis over the long term can actually lead to very serious consequences for health.
WHEN WE FAIL TO TREAT COLITIS, WHAT SORT OF COMPLICATIONS CAN DEVELOP? Many. In serious cases, the inflammation can disrupt the function of the small intestine and colon, creating multiple digestive disorders that impair overall quality of life. Over time, for example, certain types of colitis can develop into ulcerations, such as inflammatory bowel disease or ischemic colitis, which may require long-term treatment. In addition, there is always the danger that colitis symptoms may be a sign of something more serious. Intestinal inflammation may signal Crohn’s disease, for example — a serious, potentially life-threatening disorder — or other complications like large internal bleeding, peritonitis, ileus, internal and external fistulas, strictures of the colon, and intestinal cancer. www.4health.net
WHEN SHOULD SOMEONE SEE A GASTROENTEROLOGIST? Only extremely alarming signals should make an individual literally run to his or her physician. These include the presence of mucus and/or blood in the stool, defecation more than 10 times a day for 2–3 days, severe weight loss, severe weakness, and fatigue.
WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE CAUSES OF THESE DANGEROUS SYMPTOMS? There are many causes. Only an experienced, qualified specialist can accurately determine them, and decide an optimal treatment that will quickly and effectively put the patient back on his or her feet. Colitis can be caused by various kinds of poisoning: food, radiation, toxic, and medication (most often a result of taking antibiotics and/or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen). There are two other common causes — infectious (viruses, pathogenic bacteria, fungi) and parasitic (worms,amoeba dysentery,Trichomonas) infections of the intestine. Also, colitis may occur because of a food or drug allergy, a fiber deficit in the diet, lesions of intestinal blood vessels, and tuberculosis, as well as chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system, kidney, liver, pancreas, stomach and intestines.
HOW IS YOUR OFFICE UNIQUE IN TREATING COLITIS? It depends on the type of colitis (infectious, ulcerative, parasitic, etc.), its severity, the phase of the disease, and the general state of the patient. In my office, treatment emphasizes a medical, holistic, and dietary approach. We recommend a bland diet consisting of smaller and more frequent steamed and blended foods (vegetables, meat, fish), as well as the exclusion of milk, beans, alcohol, spicy, smoked, and salted dishes. Depending on the type of colitis, treatment may include antiparasitic or antibacterial therapy. Additionally, as a rule, we may also prescribe vitamins, adsorption, enzyme preparations, noncarbonated mineral water, therapeutic enemas, and herbal teas and infusions of herbs (sage, blueberry, oak bark, etc.). In any case, it should be understood that only early diagnosis and comprehensive optimal therapy can help get rid of the unpleasant symptoms of colitis and reduce the risk of its recurrence, as well as serve as an effective prevention of more serious diseases of the digestive system. Thus one should not ignore colitis, but promptly refer to a gastroenterologist.
NAME:
SAM WEISSMAN, MD BOARD CERTIFICATIONS: American Board of Internal Medicine Gastroenterology (Internal Medicine)
SPECIALTY: gastroenterologist
HOSPITAL AFFILIATIONS: New York Methodist Hospital
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS American College of Physicians American Gastroenterological Association
AWARDS AND PUBLICATIONS Roth Scholarship for Biomedical Research
CONTACT: 202 Foster Ave, Suite C, Brooklyn, NY 11230
(888) 610-3893
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IS MEDICAL MARIJUANA A MIRACLE CURE FOR SEVERE CHILDHOOD EPILEPSY? STUDIES SHOW PROMISE, BUT FDA ADVISES CAUTION ■■■ Colleen M. Story Charlotte Figi was born a normal child, one of a set of twins born in 2004 to parents Matt and Paige. Three months later, she suffered a seizure that lasted 30 minutes. Her parents rushed her to the hospital, and started on a long journey that involved more tests, doctor visits, hospital stays, and a cocktail of medications. Doctors couldn’t figure out what was wrong, until over two years later, when a neurologist found that she had the SCN1A gene mutation — a common mutation in people with Dravet Syndrome, a rare severe form of epilepsy.
Standard epilepsy medications weren’t working, and Charlotte was experiencing developmental delays because of the side effects. Even with a special diet, the seizures returned, and Charlotte lost the ability to walk, talk, and eat. She was suffering 300 seizures a week, and her heart stopped numerous times. Her parents feared they would lose her any day. Paige grew desperate, and decided to try medical marijuana. It took her a long time to find the two doctors she needed to sign off on the treatment. The specialized extract saved Charlotte, and a year later, she was thriving. www.4health.net
4HEALTH Marijuana for children is a scary prospect for some, but recent studies show that for conditions unresponsive to other treatments, it may be a lifesaver.
RECENT STUDY SHOWS PROMISE FOR EPILEPSY TREATMENT In a 2015 study analysis, researchers looked at a series of clinical trials involving 213 children and young adults with severe epilepsy who were treated with an extract of cannabidiol (CBD), taken in liquid form once daily. This is not the same form of marijuana used to “get high.” In fact, the extract has no such action because it’s pharmaceutically produced to limit the amount of THC in the product — the compound responsible for marijuana’s euphoric action. The participants in these studies were similar to Charlotte — they had severe forms of the disease, including Dravet syndrome, that were not responding to other treatments. The results showed that participants taking the CBD cut their number of seizures by around half during the study period. “The results are of great interest,” said Dr. Orrin Devinsky of the New York University Langone Comprehensive Epilepsy Center,“especially for the children and their parents who have been searching for an answer for these debilitating seizures.”
SCIENCE STILL UNSURE ABOUT LONG-TERM EFFECTS Charlotte also took a type of marijuana extract low in THC and high in CBD, a strain of cannabis specially grown for medical treatments rather than for recreational purposes. Now used by over 40 other patients to ease symptoms of epilepsy and cancer, it’s been named after the little girl who benefitted so much from it, and is now called “Charlotte’s Web.” Other simi-
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lar strains have been used to help other children, with one called “Haleigh’s Hope.” There is a risk. There’s little data on the use of CBD in children, particularly long term, as for decades the drug was illegal, and it was difficult to study its potential health benefits. That’s changing now, but progress is slow. Even in the aforementioned 2015 study, some children got worse while taking the extract, and some withdrew because of adverse side effects. There are other issues as well, particularly the chemical make-up and processing of each extract. There can be differences in the various products, depending on where the plant was grown, how it was grown, its genetic makeup, and how the medication is processed. These things would need to be standardized to make any CBD treatment more readily acceptable and safe. Still, for those parents at their wits’ end watching their children suffer with no remaining treatment in sight, CBD can be a godsend. Since 2014, 17 states have legalized the use of CBD in children (Utah, Wyoming, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Kentucky, Virginia). Most of those laws are intended to treat severe epilepsy and some other conditions, like cancer. All placed limits on the level of THC allowed in the medication. The FDA advises caution. They warn on their website that the untested drugs can have “unpredictable and unintended consequences.” Current studies are underway on “Epidiolex,” however, a purified CBD created by GW Pharmaceuticals. Low in THC, the drug has been FDA-authorized to be used in clinical trials involving 450 children across the country. “When you are seeing your child dying,” says mom Nicole Hansen from Wisconsin, “and knowing that you could do something to help them, how can you not do something as a parent?”
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BACK OR NECK PAIN? HEAD TRAUMA? SOPHISTICATED TREATMENT AVAILABLE NEAR YOU! AWARD-WINNING DOCTOR SUNDARESAN OFFERS EXPERIENCED NEUROLOGICAL CARE Did you know that if you’re suffering from back pain, neck pain, head trauma, spinal problems, or other disorders related to the central nervous system, you can find some of the top doctors in the field right in your home town? We had a chance to speak with Dr. Narayan Sundaresan — one of the top neurosurgeons at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center for seven years — about his practice in the New York City area. Dr. Sundaresan has authored over 100 abstracts and peer-reviewed articles in the top oncology and spine journals, and currently works with a team of neurosurgical specialists at NY Neurosurgery PC and Generations Neurosurgery, PC.
WHAT DO NEUROSURGEONS TREAT? Neurosurgeons like Dr. Sundaresan specialize in disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system, including the following: ■ traumatic injuries to the brain, skull, spi-
nal cord, or nerves ■ tumors in the brain, spinal cord, nerves,
skull, or spine ■ back pain caused by pinched nerves, in-
fections, fractures, and ruptured or bulging disks ■ neurovascular disorders such as aneurysms, strokes, and brain hemorrhages ■ brain disorders like epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease ■ infections of the brain and/or spinal cord
DOCTOR SPECIALIZES IN TREATING BACK AND NECK PAIN Dr. Sundaresan has managed a level-one trauma center for 25 years, and says he still sees a substantial amount of neurosurgery done for head trauma and spinal trauma from motor vehicle accidents. He also treats a substantial number of gunshot wounds, but says that his actual specialty is in treating patients with degenerative conditions, like back and spine problems.
«I would venture to say that more than 25% of human beings have problems with this,» he says, «and that’s the group I’m focused on right now as they also require surgical treatment.» He notes that back problems often come from workrelated injuries, especially with patients who are in the construction business, or who have been in car accidents. «The majority of my patients come in because they have a herniated disc or ruptured disk in the neck or back and they’re in excruciating pain from pressure on the nerves. And it’s taking care of them that’s a big part of my practice.»
THE IMPORTANCE OF A GOOD DOCTORPATIENT RELATIONSHIP As one of the youngest neurosurgeons in the nation, Sundaresan was working in the field before technology became so critical in the care of the central nervous system. Prior to the heavy use of CAT scans and MRIs, for instance, it was important for a doctor to be able to make a diagnosis without a lot of special equipment. «In the early days there was a lot of good judgment involved,» he says. «Surgeons of my generation learned by talking to the patient, listening to their history, being personally involved. The clinical skills were very, very important. The way that we were taught was we had to assume personal responsibility not only in surgery, in their preoperative care, their postoperative care, and ongoing care, so there was a very complete relationship.» In the NY Neurosurgery PC, the doctors pride themselves on continuing the idea that complete care must involve a solid foundation of communication and trust between doctor and patient.
RUSSIAN-SPEAKING NEUROSURGEON JOINS NY NEUROSURGERY PC With years of experience treating people with all types of backgrounds, Dr. Sundaresan sees a large number of Russian-speaking patients,
particularly at his Coney Island location, where he works with Generations Neurosurgery, PC. «Coney Island is unique because it is the hospital for a very large group of Russians,» he says. Most of the physician’s assistants at Coney Island speak Russian, so patients are very comfortable there. «We have just hired for our group a Russianspeaking neurosurgeon,» he says, «who wants to settle in this community and build a practice and serve the Russian community. It’s very difficult for us to find someone with that background. But we have now gotten an extremely well trained person who wants to join us.» In fact, the doctor’s practice is well suited to take care of all types of neurosurgical issues in the local community, and encourages patients in the Brooklyn area to visit Coney Island. «I think for the outsider who looks at Coney Island or looks at another hospital you’re not aware as to how sophisticated the services are,» he says. «But this hospital does have a lot of advanced tech in neurosurgery, and we have a very, very experienced neurosurgical team taking care of this. Patients don’t have to go to Manhattan — they have it right here.»
CONTACT DR. SUNDARESAN TODAY In addition to treating back and neck pain along with other neurosurgical conditions, Dr. Sundaresan is often sought out by patients overseas because of his expertise in dealing with complex tumors. He and his team have offices in Manhattan, the Bronx, and Brooklyn. For more information, contact the clinic at 212–876–7575, or visit their website at www.nyneurosurgerypc.com.
Generations Neurosurgery, PC
(212) 876-7575 (844)-95-SPINE (77463) www.4health.net
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GENERATIONS
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Obesity Medicine | 4HEALTH21
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WHAT’S CAUSING YOUR BELLY FAT? YOU MAY HAVE INSULIN RESISTANCE!
During the past 20 years, there has been a dramatic increase in obesity in the United States. More than one-third of U.S. adults (35.7%) and approximately 17% (or 12.5 million) of children and adolescents aged 2–19 years are obese. Another 33% of all adults are in the overweight category. Though there are a lot of things that can cause weight gain, I find the following four factors often play a crucial role in expanding my patients’ waistlines.
THREE THINGS HAVE CHANGED ABOUT HOW WE EAT Hippocrates, father of medicine, is quoted as saying, “Let food be your medicine, medicine be your food.” Over the past several decades, however, we’ve moved away from this concept, and now see food merely as “calories in, calories out,” which has changed our relationship to what we eat. Three things happened to the modern diet that now contribute to the high levels of inflammation we currently see in the population at large, leading to increased health problems and disease. Understanding these three fundamental principles forms the foundation for a healthy and long life. Belly fat and insulin resistance: Insulin resistance, or metabolic syndrome, affects one in three Americans and leads to excess belly fat. Unlike the subcutaneous fat that is protective, studies have shown that belly fat produces cytokines and other inflammation-causing chemicals that lead to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other conditions. In fact, waist circumference of over 40 inches in men and 36 inches in women (lower in Asian Populations), is one of the five criteria for metabolic syndrome. This leads to belly fat which increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease and even cancer risk! Lack of antioxidants: Before the modern food processing era, our diet used to have more than 50 percent unprocessed and uncooked food items such as colored fruits, vegetables, and other natural ingredients that are high in antioxidants such as polyphenols. Studies have shown that lack of polyphenols leads to increased inflammation in the body. www.4health.net
Ratio of fats: The ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids used to be 1:1, but is now at 1:16, which also increases inflammation.
THE FOURTH FACTOR More recent research has revealed a fourth factor in this list—lack of quality sleep. According to the National Institutes of Health, 50 to 70 million Americans are affected by chronic sleep disorders and intermittent sleep problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) adds that sleep insufficiency is linked to motor vehicle crashes, industrial disasters, and occupational errors. Lack of proper duration and quality of sleep also contributes to insulin resistance, which in turn leads to weight gain. A 2012 study, for example, found that sleep deprivation impaired the ability of fat cells to respond to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Unfortunately, this can set in a vicious cycle where sleep problems lead to weight gain and weight gain in turn—particularly if it leads to sleep apnea—can make sleep problems worse!
PHYSICIAN ASSISTED WEIGHT LOSS CAN HELP Reversing the many factors leading to weight gain such as insulin resistance, sleep apnea, lack of proper sleep, stress, nutritional deficiencies, food sensitivities, eating disorders, hormonal imbalances etc., can be very difficult to do on your own. Diet fatigue, discouragement, and the constant ups and downs can deter even the most disciplined person from his or her goals. A physician familiar with weight loss, sleep disorders and wellness can be the helping hand you need to get back on track with your weight and your health. Realizing the bidirectional relationship between sleep disorders and weight gain, we are able to address these very inter-related fields together so you can lose weight, sleep better, and enjoy a healthier and perhaps even longer life. Our delicious and affordable W8MD weight loss meal replacement supplements start as low as $2.25 cents per meal replaced and can save up to 15% on grocery food cost. The biweekly program cost of $45.00 includes up to two appetite suppressant weight loss medications such as Phentermine, Topiramate etc. when appropriate.
NAME:
PRAB R. TUMPATI, MD CERTIFICATION: Board Certified in Internal Medicine & Sleep Medicine; Board Eligible in Obesity Medicine Member of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians
SPECIALTY: Internal Medicine, Sleep and Obesity Medicine
INSURANCE: Accept All Major Insurance Plans
CONTACT: 2003 Bath Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11214 1718, Welsh Rd, Philadelphia, PA, 19115 987 Old Eagle School Rd, Ste 712, Wayne, PA, 19087 543 45th St, Union City, NJ 07087
(888) 283-0399 www.w8md.com
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CAN YOU REDUCE YOUR RISK OF GETTING A CATARACT? TIPS TO KEEP YOUR VISION CLEAR ■■■ Gordon Barclay The National Institutes of Health states that the risk of getting a cataract increases with each decade of life starting around the age of 40. By the age of 75, half of white Americans have a cataract. By age 80, a total of 70 percent of white Americans are affected, compared to 53 percent of black Americans and 61 percent of Hispanic Americans.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that an estimated 20.5 million Americans 40 years and older have cataracts in both eyes. That number is expected to increase to 30.1 million by 2020. The good news is that cataracts are easily treated with a simple surgery that removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with a clear, artificial one. But of course, prevention is the best strategy. Is there a way to keep from getting a cataract in the first place?
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4HEALTH WHAT ARE CATARACTS? A cataract is a “clouding” of the lens of the eye, which helps focus light on the retina — the tissue at the back of the eye. As this lens clouds over, the person experiences blurred vision. Other symptoms include sensitivity to light and glare, difficulty with night vision, fading of color vision, double vision, and seeing “haloes” around lights. Genetics can increase risk of cataracts. In other words, if someone in your family has them, you have a higher risk of developing them yourself. Other medical conditions, as well, can increase your risk, like diabetes, or past eye surgery. Most cataracts, however, are simply the result of aging. The lens in the eye becomes less flexible over the years, and proteins within the lens can break down and clump together to eventually cause clouding. Treatment for cataracts is usually surgery, though your doctor will likely recommend that you wait until the cataract starts to significantly affect your vision before taking that step. In the early stages, cataracts may not cause major problems, and minor ones may be improved with prescription glasses.
5 WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF CATARACTS Sometimes, the odds are stacked against us. A 2015 study, for example, found that two genes were the primary suspects in the formation of cataracts. Researchers are working on ways to turn those genes “off,” which would prevent the cataracts from forming. Fortunately, there are things you can do that will lower your risk of getting cataracts, or at the very least, delay their onset. Consider the following:
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Don’t smoke, or try to quit. Smoking increases risk of cataracts, according to several studies. Wear sunglasses. UV rays are harmful to the lens of the eye, and over time, can cause damage that may increase risk of clouding.
Don’t drink too much. Excessive alcohol use may increase risk of cataracts. A 2010 study, for example, found that consuming more than 2 standard drinks a day was associated with a significantly increased likelihood of cataract surgery. Moderate consumption, however (1–2 drinks/day), was found to have a protective effect. A 2007 study also found that more than one drink a day was associated with a modest increased risk for cataracts. Maintain a healthy weight. Too many pounds can increase risk for several medical issues, and cataract may be one of them. According to a 2007 study, for example, obesity is related to cataracts, and also to glaucoma and age-related maculopathy. Eat more fruits and vegetables. These foods contain antioxidants, which can help protect the lens of the eye. According to the American Optometric Association, vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene have all shown a protective effect on the eyes. It’s best to get these from food, however, rather than from supplements, so choose more fruits and veggies. Good options include dark leafy greens, kiwi, broccoli, berries, citrus fruits, almonds, sunflower seeds, avocados, shrimp, sweet potatoes, carrots, cantaloupe, and squash.
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| Plastic Surgery
DO YOUR HANDS MAKE YOU LOOK OLDER THAN YOU’D LIKE? NEW TREATMENT TAKES YEARS OFF THE APPEARANCE OF HANDS
NAME:
Roman RAYHAM, MD SPECIALTY: Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
CERTIFICATION: Board-certified, American Board of Surgery and American Board of Plastic Surgery.
TRAINING & EDUCATION: SUNY Downstate College of Medicine, Staten Island University Hospital (Residency), Training at Mayo Clinic, Post-graduate fellowship at New York Eye and Ear Infirmary.
MEMBERSHIPS: American Medical Association, Medical Society of the State of NY, Medical Society of Kings County, Arnold Society, Priestley Society.
CONTACT: 1616B Voorhies Ave., Ste. B Brooklyn, NY 11235 161 Madison Ave. Ste. 11W New York, NY 10016
(877) 582-0400 www.NYPlasticSurgeryCenter.com
LANGUAGES: ENGLISH • RUSSIAN
It used to be that when we talked about antiaging, we focused mostly on the face. But all those years, we were missing a part of the body that according to studies, reveals our age faster and more accurately than anything else. Have you guessed? It’s all about the hands. According to a 2006 study, if you want to know a person’s real age, just look at their hands. In 2013, research revealed that women, in particular, worry about the state of their hands, afraid that they will betray their true age. Fortunately, Dr. Rayham of the RR Plastix/New York Plastic Surgery Center has a new solution. There’s a brand new way to improve skin texture and tone, boost volume, remove age spots, and reduce the signs of aging on the hands with minimal downtime. It’s a combination treatment that involves Radiesse, an FDA-approved dermal filler, and “Broadband Light (BBL)” photorejuvenation, and it offers new hope for aging hands. Forget the weeks of downtime. Now, you can come in Thursday, get your treatment, and go back to work the same day. What is Radiesse? Radiesse is a type of dermal filler and collagen stimulator that helps restore fullness to aging hands, creating a more youthful volume and smooth texture. Made up of calcium hydroxylapatite, which is a mineral-like compound found naturally in human bones, it not only helps enhance fullness, but stimulates production of new collagen, restoring skin elasticity and strength. Used as a facial filler for over a decade, it is the first and only FDA-approved product for treating volume loss in the hands. You know how aging hands can start to look bony and fragile? Your joints are more prominent, and your skin gets thin and crepey. Radiesse injections help re-plump and replenish, making joints and veins less visible. You’ll see instant results that will last one-to-two years. What is a Broadband Light Photorejuvenation? BBL is a laser-based cosmetic treatment that uses the heat and energy of light to target specific areas of the skin that need help. The specialized machine has unique filters that go after two main causes of aging in the hands: 1) sun damage, 2) loss of collagen and volume. BBL uses the power of pulsed light to target excess melanin on the hands, which is what is responsible for age spots and hyperpigmentation. The unwanted dark areas absorb the light energy, and over the
next few days, those pigmented areas will darken and fall away. The power of the BBL treatment stimulates collagen production at the same time, and while you’re recovering, the skin will regenerate itself at the deeper levels, producing firmer and younger-looking skin over a period of weeks. The increased collagen production will help smooth out hand wrinkles and soften texture. The photothermal energy can also help eliminate many of the fine vessels that can cause redness. Studies with BBL found that it not only created a more youthful appearance, it also helped rejuvenate skin at the molecular level, so that it behaved more like younger skin. What are the Results of Radiesse Combined with BBL? Radiesse creates instant volumizing effects. Within a few weeks, you’re also likely to notice the following results: ■ Reduced age spots and hyperpigmentation ■ More plump, younger-looking hands ■ Reduced redness ■ Tighter, firmer skin ■ A more even skin tone ■ Smoother skin ■ Healthier skin growth, for more younger-looking skin What Can I Expect from Treatment? This combined treatment is minimally invasive, gentle, and safe. Usually, topical anesthetic is not needed, but you can talk to your physician about sensitive areas. Treatments take only about a half hour, and require no downtime. Dr. Rayham says you can go back to your regular daily activities right away. For best results, patients may need more than one treatment. Appointments are customized to each person’s condition. You may experience some redness, bruising, or swelling afterwards, which usually resolves in a few hours. You may also notice some flaking a day or two later, as the skin sheds the older layers and produces new growth. It is important to avoid the sun as much as possible, and to protect your skin from any UV exposure until completely healed. Customized to You! Dr. Rayham invites readers to see what this new technology may be able to do for them. A personal consultation is the best way to see if Radiesse combined with BBL will work for you, and how many treatments you may need. www.4health.net
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WHY THOSE “COMFORT SHOES” AREN’T WORKING FOR YOU WHEN A CERTAIN BRAND DOESN’T DO WHAT YOU EXPECTED IT TO ■■■ Colleen M. Story Lily was proud of herself. She had just invested in a new pair of Birkenstocks — her first. Tired of killing her feet in high heels every day, she said “enough is enough,” ditched the designer pumps, and took herself downtown to find the perfect pair of kick around old sandals. After the first day of wearing them, though, her knees felt sore. Lily attributed it to all the walking she did. Her feet would need time to adjust, she was sure. But a week later, her knee pain was worse. She sat down and looked at her shoes, puzzled. They had the best reputation for being comfortable. Was there something wrong with her?
Turns out that so-called “comfort shoes” aren’t always perfectly comfortable for everyone. Here’s more — and why you may need to look for something else when it comes to standing on your feet every day.
HIGH HEELS ARE BAD — BUT WHAT’S BETTER? Well all know that high heels are bad for our feet and legs. According to the American Osteopathic Association, they are one of the biggest factors leading to foot problems in women, with up to a third suffering permanent problems because of them. They can lead to ingrown toenails, damage to leg tendons, nerve damage, bunions, osteoarthritis of the knee, plantar fasciitis, and low back pain.
4HEALTH Comfort shoes, on the other hand, are often recommended to people who are on their feet a lot. They are flatter, put less stress and strain on joints, and are supposed to have better support and cushioning to help reduce wear and tear on the feet and legs. The problem is that not every comfort shoe is right for every person.
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“Because the shoe is considered medical,” Bob Baravarian, M.D., told WebMD, “it gets overused by people who need more support than they can get from the shoe. It’s not as good as an orthotic or a medical type shoe.”
HOW TO FIND THE BEST SHOES FOR YOUR FEET COMFORT SHOES CAN STILL CAUSE PAIN AND INJURY According to a study in Arthritis Care and Research, clogs and stability shoes weren’t always what they were cracked up to be. Researchers used a number of tests to check on 10 men and 21 women with knee osteoarthritis (OA) when going barefoot, and when wearing four different shoe types: 1) clogs, 2) stability shoes, 3) flat walking shoes, and 4) flip-flops. Results showed that overall, the clogs and stability shoes resulted in more stress to the knees than flat walking shoes or flip-flops. “These data,” the researchers wrote “confirm that footwear may have significant effect on knee loads during walking in subjects with OA of the knee.” So-called “minimalist shoes” or “toe shoes” have also been linked to an increased risk of injuries, too. A 2014 study found that three months after switching from traditional running shoes to minimalist varieties, participants had two to three times as many injuries as those who stuck with regular running shoes. Typical injuries included calf muscle strains and Achilles tendonitis. “Crocs” have gained popularity because they’re light, comfortable, and provide some arch support. They’re more protective than sandals or flip-flops, but when worn continuously, can cause pain and injury because they don’t offer enough support for steady use.
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So if you can’t rely on shoes called “comfort shoes,” how do you find the right shoes for your feet? Your best bet is to visit with your podiatrist. He or she can examine the wear pattern on your shoes, observe your gait, examine your feet and legs, and help diagnose any problems you may have. Someone with flat feet, for example, may need different shoes than someone with a narrow heel, or someone with sore knees. Your doctor can help get you into the best orthotic and shoe for your particular situation. You are also your best advocate when it comes to shoe shopping. You know what makes your feet and legs feel good, and if you buy a pair of shoes and end up suffering, you shouldn’t be afraid to return them. Try them out indoors for several days to preserve the quality and increase your odds of getting your money back. Another option — wear different shoes throughout the day. High heels may be required for a special meeting, but when you’re finished, swap them out for something more comfortable. Use your tennis for your afternoon walk or workout, and then maybe switch to your crocs to go home when you’re done. If you’re traveling, choose a pair of supportive, comfortable shoes, perhaps with an orthotic to be sure you have the support you need.
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DOES EXPERIENCE MATTER WHEN IT COMES TO DOCTORS? WHAT THE STUDIES SHOW ABOUT EXPERIENCE AND PATIENT OUTCOMES ■■■ Gordon Barclay Experience matters in most professions. We look for experience when hiring employees or childcare givers, when seeking contractors to build new houses or mechanics to fix vehicles, and especially when looking for teachers, business partners, and in-home help. Sometimes we fail to look into experience when it comes to doctors, though, and that can be a mistake. When was the last time you asked your doctor how much experience he or she had, or looked up his or her credentials online? It may benefit you to do so, especially if you’re scheduled for surgery, according to recent studies.
STUDY SHOWS EXPERIENCED DOCTORS CREATE BETTER LONG-TERM OUTCOMES For the study, researchers looked at data from patients who were treated for a cerebral stroke, or stroke caused by a blood clot in the brain. Neurologists administered a treatment called “rt-PA” via I.V. for these patients after they entered the hospital. Some of the neurologists were very experienced in administering these treatments, and some didn’t have quite as much experience. Would that make any difference in how the patients recovered? To answer that question, researchers examined the patients three months later, looking
at their recovery in terms of how independent they were, and if they had any remaining handicaps from the stroke. The faster a treatment is administered in a stroke situation, the greater the possibility of a full recovery. Turns out that those patients who were treated by the more experienced neurologists (who had administered at least 35 previous treatments) were more likely to have achieved independence three months later, and had a lower risk of handicaps or dependency. Patients treated by less experienced doctors (who treated no more than 4 previous cases) still benefitted from the treatment, but had slightly reduced outcomes three months later. The researchers warned, however, that “if we have the choice, being treated by an experienced neurologist is better,” but that “being treated immediately by a less experienced neurologist is probably better than being treated one half-hour later by an experienced one.” In other words, when we’re talking about stroke, the earlier the treatment, the better.
OTHER STUDIES SHOW EXPERIENCED DOCTORS HAVE THE EDGE Other studies have suggested that more experienced physicians have patients with better long-term outcomes. In 2013, for example, researchers reported on a study of obstetricians and their patients. They looked at both vagi-
nal and cesarean births, and whether or not the mothers experienced any complications. Results showed that those obstetricians with more years of experience had fewer maternal complications. The improvement was steepest in the physician’s first decade of practice after completion of residency, but the physicians continued to get slightly better after that, through the second and third decades of practice. A 2012 study of spinal surgeries in so-called “teaching hospitals,” where new students begin to treat patients in July, also found that in-hospital mortality rates were significantly higher in July than they were in August or June, after new doctors had gained some experience. Patients admitted in July were also more likely to develop complications during spinal operations. Overall, experienced doctors are thought to be able to pick up on more subtle symptoms early in a disease process, or may be better at determining which treatment will help you the most. Particularly for the most complicated treatments and surgeries, experience counts, as there is a direct correlation between the doctor’s years of doing the treatment and the patient’s outcome. If you’re scheduled for a serious surgery or other type of treatment, do be sure to check on your physician’s experience, and seek out a second opinion when necessary. www.4health.net
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FEEL BETTER TODAY WITH NEW, NON-INVASIVE DEPRESSION TREATMENT TMS THERAPY SOLUTION REQUIRES NO DRUGS OR SURGERY Tri-State TMS is an outpatient psychiatric service providing psychopharmacology and individual psychotherapy treatment. We launched this new clinical service—known as TMS—in Brooklyn for patients with severe, refractory Major Depression Disorder. The Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) device was cleared by the FDA for treating adult patients with major depression who have failed to benefit from antidepressant medications.
WHAT IS TMS? TMS uses electromagnetic induction to induce weak electric currents using a rapidly changing magnetic field. It is treatment for patients who have not responded to conventional pharmacological and cognitive-behavior therapy: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, etc. TMS—repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)—has been tested as a treatment tool for various neurological and psychiatric disorders including migraine, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, tinnitus, bulimia nervosa (BN), fibromyalgia, pain, and many other symptoms. A non-invasive procedure, TMS is a treatment for depression that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. During the procedure, the patient reclines in a chair while the doctor places an electromagnetic coil around the scalp. Once it’s in place, the physician determines the settings that will create the best outcome for the patient. Then the magnet sends painless, low-dose pulses that activate areas of the brain that are typically less active in people with depression. Treatment usually lasts about 40 minutes, after which patients can go back to their normal www.4health.net
activities for the day. A series of treatments is recommended for optimal results, and usually consists of one treatment per day for five days a week over a period of about 4-6 weeks.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF TMS? There are advantages of TMS over other standard treatments for depression. The treatment is safe, requires no anesthesia or sedation, and creates none of the side effects typical to antidepressants. That means no sexual dysfunction, dry mouth, dizziness, insomnia, weight changes, or digestive problems. Generally, TMS appears to be free from harmful effects. Research using animals and human volunteers has shown none or little adverse effects on the body in general as a result of stimulation, and examination of brain tissue subjected to thousands of TMS pulses has shown no detectable structural changes.
These procedures have shown safety and efficiency in number of studies and are now typically covered by Medicare and some commercial insurance carriers. Tri-State TMS is excited to offer this drugfree outpatient procedure for the treatment of depression, and can help determine if this treatment may be a good option for you. Doctors Mark Gurtovy and Felix Dron both completed their training in Psychiatry at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, and they have over 30 years of successful medical experience. Patients in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut who have not had good luck with typical treatments for depression are urged to contact Tri-State TMS for more information. Call 718-232-1492, or see website at www.brooklyntms.com.
COULD TMS HELP YOU? How can you tell if you may be a candidate for TMS? Ask yourself these questions: ■ Have you been diagnosed with major de-
pressive disorder? ■ Have you had trouble finding relief with
antidepressant medications? ■ Have you suffered from depression for a
Felix Dron, MD Mark Gurtovy, MD
while with no real relief? If you answered “yes” to one or more of these questions, you may be a candidate for TMS. Our office provides treatment with FDA-approved systems such as Neurostar TMS and Brainsway Deep TMS. Our clinic is the medical organization in New York, where you will find both of these unique systems available.
7620 Bay Parkway, Suite 1B, Brooklyn, NY, 11214
Tel: 718–232–1492 Fax: 718–232–4505 www.BrooklynTMS.com www.TristateTMS.com
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PAINFUL LEGS AFTER EXERCISE? IT COULD BE PAD CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR TO AVOID SERIOUS COMPLICATIONS Barbara got home from her trip to the zoo with her two granddaughters and flopped down in the chair. Her husband asked if she was okay. “My legs hurt,” she said. “Again?” he asked. “Maybe you should check with the doctor.” Barbara assured him she would feel better after resting. Her husband remained concerned. A few weeks later, when Barbara complained of pain again, he insisted she make an appointment. It’s a good thing he did, as the doctor diagnosed Barbara with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)—a serious circulatory condition that if left untreated, could have led to increasing pain and even amputation. Fortunately, Barbara received the treatment she needed, now she’s feeling better and able to keep up with her granddaughters — most of the time!
PAD IS MORE COMMON THAN YOU THINK One in 20 Americans over the age of 50 has PAD, and is at risk for serious complications. Those who have diabetes are even more likely to be struck with the disease. You’ve probably heard about how plaque can build up in the arteries around the heart. This plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, and mineral deposits that gradually harden and collect over time, narrowing the openings within the arteries and potentially increasing the risk of high blood pressure, restricted blood flow, and blood clots. PAD is a similar condition, only we’re talking about the arteries in the outer areas or “periphery” of the body — that is, the limbs. These are the arteries that go to your legs, arms, head, kidneys, and stomach. The disease most commonly affects blood flow to the legs, however. Arteries are the blood vessels that take nutrient- and oxygen-rich blood from the heart out to the rest of the body. When one becomes narrowed and stiff because of PAD, it’s like an old garden hose clogged with dirt and debris. You can imagine how water through such a hose would be slow, perhaps only a trickle of what it was when the hose was new. Your arteries can be affected the same way by plaque buildup. Your legs, as a result, suffer because they aren’t getting the blood they need. www.4health.net
PAD CAN BE SNEAKY The most common symptom of PAD is pain in the legs, particularly when walking or after exercising. The pain often eases after you rest for a bit. Other symptoms may include painful cramps in the hip, thigh, or calf muscles after exercising, leg numbness or weakness, sores that won’t heal on your legs and feet, a cold feeling on the lower leg or foot, hair loss or slower nail growth on the feet and legs, and a change of color in the legs. If the disease progresses without treatment, symptoms may get worse. PAD can be sneaky. After all, who hasn’t felt like their legs were tired after a long walk? People need to be careful, though, because PAD can signal other circulatory problems.
UNTREATED PAD CAN LEAD TO AMPUTATION Another serious complication of untreated PAD is a critical infection in one of the legs. The lack of blood flow can create wounds that won’t heal. Over time, those wounds can spread throughout the leg, causing tissue death (gangrene), and sometimes, if treatments don’t work, doctors may have to amputate the affected limb. Patients don’t have to suffer these consequences. There are treatments for PAD, and the earlier you detect it, the better chance you have of keeping it from causing other serious health issues.
TREATMENT CAN HELP EASE PAIN If you are suffering from pain in your legs, wounds that won’t heal, or other potential symptoms of PAD, the doctors at USA Vascular Centers urge you to come in for an appointment. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a family history of PAD, you smoke, or if you are obese, you are even more at risk for the disease. USA Vascular Centers specialize in circulatory conditions like PAD, and through a simple physical exam, along with perhaps a blood test, ultrasound, or series of X-rays, they can tell you whether you may have the disease. Treatments may include lifestyle changes and medications that can help prevent blood clots and ease pain. USA Vascular Centers has offices all over the nation, including several in the New York area. Call today at (855) 328-5525 or go to www.USAVascularCenters.com to schedule a consultation.
YOU’RE IN TRUSTED HANDS
TM
www.USAVeinClinics.com
SPECIALTY: USA Vein Clinics has eight-of-the-art centers specializing in the treatment of venous disorders. Their expert cardiovascular physicians have cured over 10,000 patients nationwide.
INSURANCE: We accept Medicare and most insurance plans, like Health First, 1199, GHI, BCBS, United Healthcare, Aetna, and many others.
CONTACT:
(855) 328-5525 New York 2444 86th St, Ste A, Bensonhurst, NY 11214 260 W Sunrise Hwy, Suite 102, Valley Stream NY 11581
LANGUAGES: Armenian, Chinese, Farsi, Greek, Hebrew, Lithuanian, Korean, Polish, Russian, Spanish and Ukranian
CLASSIFIEDS To Place an AD in the Classifieds Section, Please Call (212) 738-9230
Medical Office is looking for a FT Front Desk Receptionist and a FT Medical Assistant (experience is a MUST). 718-854-5100
Newly open Medical Office is seeking PT doctors: internal medicine, allergist, pain management, orthopedist. 718-975-3369
Call us if you need Mobile Ultrasound Services: Echo, Vascular and General Ultrasound. (917) 750-2275
Call Dr. Joseph Juliano 973-752-9559
Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant (FT or PT) needed for Medical Office.
Telephone (917) 412-3797
Good reimbursement. 718-954-2202
Medical Office is looking for PA or NP for Internal Medicine Doctor. (347) 587-3777
For additional information please call Joe 917-208-4291
New multispecialty clinic looking for any specialty doctors. 347-453-0523
available for PT. Own Malpractice Ins.
Ultrasound technologist with five years of experience available for part time.
Medical offices for rent: 1500 sq ft, 2327 83rd St., Brooklyn, NY 1500 sq ft, 7819 18th Ave, Brooklyn, NY
Per Diem Covering CHIROPRACTIC PHYSICIAN (NY/NJ Lic.)
Medical office seeks a Russian-Speaking Registered Nurse Practitioner. Please submit your resume to medicaloffice41@gmail.com
Credit Card Processing Services: Free terminal with setup NURIT 2085. Low Rates — 1.67%. Free setup. Free plug-in to your software (billing). Free evaluation of your current statement . Free customer support 24/7. FREE online access. Call now (866) 573-0604 ext 706
Medical space for subleasing at 500 Brightwatercourt in Brooklyn (b/n Brighton 4th street and Brighton 5th Street) for any medical specialist (not for internal medicine doctor and podiatrist). The office is located in the building for senior citizens. There is a big potential for new patients referrals. For details call (646)251-6646.
Licensed Ultrasound Technologist (RDMS) is looking for part time or full time position. Resume available upon request. Tel. 718-608-7402; Email at violasvu@gmail.com.
MEDICAL OFFICE FOR RENT First Floor, 1,500 sq ft. located on New Dorp Ln, Staten Island NY 6 MONTHS FREE For additional information please call 212-945-8550
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MEDICAL OFFICE FOR RENT First Floor plus Legal Basement, total 3,000 sq ft., located on New Dorp Ln, Staten Island NY 6 MONTHS FREE For additional information please call 212-945-8550
MEDICAL OFFICE FOR RENT
First Floor, Second Floor plus Legal Basement, total 4,500 sq ft., located on New Dorp Ln, Staten Island NY 6 MONTHS FREE For additional information please call 212-945-8550 www.4health.net
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4HEALTH
DENTISTRY - GENERAL
Vladimir LEMPERT, DMD
3037 Ave U Brooklyn, NY 11229
(888) 607-9725
DENTISTRY - PEDIATRIC
Marina KREPKH, DDS
7708 4th Ave Brooklyn, NY 11209
(888) 502-6245
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Victoria ALEKSANDROVICH, MD
3080 W 1st St, Ste 102 Brooklyn, NY 11224
(718) 207-7071
OB/GYN - GENERAL
Sergey ZHIVOTENKO, MD
2797 Ocean Pkwy, Fl 2 Brooklyn, NY 11235 20-04 Seagirt Blvd Far Rockaway, NY 11691
(888) 757-3877
NEUROSURGERY
DERMATOLOGY
Hayama BRILL, MD
1725 E 12th St, Ste 301 Brooklyn, NY 11223
(718) 336-1909 629 Park Ave New York, NY 10065
Paul GLIEDMAN, MD
2101 Ave X Brooklyn, NY 11235
(718) 512-2160 OPTOMETRY
(212) 744-0392 OB/GYN - FERTILITY SPECIALIST
Yekaterina LEVIN, DDS
7000 Bay Pkwy, Ste C Brooklyn, NY 11204
(888) 838-6212
Alexander BEYLINSON, DO Leonard LEVITZ, MD
4434 Amboy Rd Staten Island, NY 10312
(718) 984-9658
Margarita BAUMAN, OD
Narayan SANDARESAN, MD
1749 E 16 St Brooklyn, NY 11229
5 E 84 St New York, NY 10028
321 Edison St Staten Island, NY 10306
2601 Ocean Pkwy, FL 7 Brooklyn, NY 11235 199 Mount Eden Pkwy, Fl 6 Bronx, NY 10457
1910 Ave U Brooklyn, NY 11229
(718) 759-6979
th
th
(212) 876-7575
(718) 375-4747
GASTROENTEROLOGY
(844) 957-7463
Hanna JESIONOWSKA, MD
159 E 74th St, Ste C New York, NY 10021
OB/GYN - UROGYNECOLOGY
Nataliya SAFONOVA, DDS
Lilia LEVITZ, MD
2211 Ocean Ave Brooklyn, NY 11229
Aleksandra ZLOTNIK, OD
1749 E 16th St Brooklyn, NY 11229
(718) 376-1090 (800) 801-0603
1910 Ave U Brooklyn, NY 11229
(718) 375-4747
(718) 759-6979
321 Edison St Staten Island, NY 10306
Irina BERLIN, MD
NEPHROLOGY
948 48 St, Fl 2 Brooklyn, NY 11219 th
40 West Brighton Ave, Ste 104 Brooklyn, NY 11224
(718) 283-7219
(718) 627-8300
PAIN MANAGEMENT
Amit SCHWARTZ, MD
OBESITY MEDICINE
Harout MARGOSSIAN , MD 7206 Narrows Ave Brooklyn, NY 11209
(888) 404-5046
1529 Richmond Rd Staten Island, NY 10304
(888) 538-2717
Stephanie YAMPOLSKY, DDS
ONCOLOGY
19 West 34th St, Ste 1201 New York, NY 10001
Mila MOGILEVSKY, DO
Yana SHTERN, MD
(877) 434-7889
Alexander BRODSKY, MD
8622 Bay Pkwy, Ste 1 Brooklyn, NY 11214
(718) 333-2121
1599 E 15th St, Fl 2 Brooklyn, NY 11230 369 Lexington Ave, STE 800 New York, NY 10017
1642 W 9th St Brooklyn, NY 11223
(718) 513-6060
321 Edison St Staten Island, NY 10306
(718) 980-2525 NEUROLOGY
2003 Bath Ave Brooklyn, NY 11214 543 45th St Union City, NJ 07087
(888) 283-0399
Namik YUSUFOV, DDS, MDT
(718) 512-2160
158-06 Northern Blvd Flushing, NY 11358
(212) 804-0500 (732) 728-7075
Anella BAYSHTOK, MD
2101 Ave X Brooklyn, NY 11235
305 W 28th St New York, NY 10001
170 Morris Ave, Ste A Long Branch, NJ 07740
(347) 252-6732
Prabhakara R. TUMPATI, MD
(718) 445-3700 www.brooklynroc.com
Sam WEISSMAN, MD
202 Foster Ave Brooklyn, NY 11230
(718) 854-5100
Michael RISKEVICH, MD
2736 Ocean Ave, Ste 1A Brooklyn, NY 11229
Dmitriy GRINSHPUN, MD
(718) 934-8484
174 Brighton 11th St, Fl 1 Brooklyn, NY 11235
(888) 747-8009
www.4health.net
4HEALTH ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE - GENERAL
PHYSICAL THERAPY
Vladislav RUDNER, PT
1901 82nd St Brooklyn, NY 11214
(718) 490-2416
Alina VASILYEVA, DPM
2116 Ave P Brooklyn, NY 11229 2646 E 14th St Brooklyn, NY 11235
(718) 646-0131
www.magichandspt.com
PLASTIC SURGERY
37
LSA RECOVERY
1300 Ave P Brooklyn, NY 11229
(888) 983-4055 RADIOLOGY
Ridwan SHABSIGH, MD
3121 Ocean Ave Brooklyn, NY 11235 944 Park Ave New York, NY 10028
(718) 283-7746
VK SKIN SPA
162 Brighton 11th St, Fl 2 Brooklyn, NY 11235
Ada KULAGINA, LAC
8635 21st Ave Brooklyn, NY 11214
(646) 200-5856
MEDICAL SUPPLY
(888) 410-3442
PSYCHOLOGY
NUTRITION AND DIETETICS
Anup R. GHEEWALA, MD
2583 Ocean Ave, Ste 1R Brooklyn, NY 11229
Chloe CARMICHAEL
230 Park Ave, Fl 10 New York, NY 10196
(212) 729-3922
Sinai DIAGNOSTICS
2560 Ocean Ave Brooklyn, NY 11229 2071 Clove Rd Staten Island, NY 10304
(888) 496-2688
(718) 616-2330
PSYCHIATRY
David SHUSTERMAN, MD
Globe SURGICAL SUPPLY
800 2nd Ave, Fl 9 New York, NY 10017
2029 Bath Ave Brooklyn, NY 11214
(212) 931-8533
69-15 Yellowstone Blvd Forest Hills, NY 11375
(718) 360-9550 nyurology.com
Albert GROSS, CNS, NYS, CDN
(888) 418-0442
1942 E 8 St Brooklyn, NY 11223 th
(718) 376-8317
UROLOGY
www.nylifex.com
MULTI SPECIALTY
USA VASCULAR CENTERS
Roman RAYHAM, MD, BOARD CERTIFIED IN PLASTIC SURGERY
1616B Voorhies Ave Brooklyn, NY 11235 161 Madison Ave, Ste 11W New York, NY 10016
Felix DRON, MD
7620 Bay Pkwy, Ste 1B Brooklyn, NY 11214
(718) 232-1492
Yuly CHALIK, MD
2632 E 14th St Brooklyn, NY 11235 107-15 Jamaica Ave Queens, NY 11418
VASCULAR SURGERY
Multi SPECIALTY CLINIC 3023-3027 Ave V Brooklyn, NY 11229
(877) 807-0989
PODIATRY
AESTHETIC CENTERS
Alexander KARASIK, ESQ
Mark GURTOVY, MD
7620 Bay Pkwy, Ste 1B Brooklyn, NY 11214
(718) 232-1492
Svetlana LUVISH, DPM
520 Neptune Ave Brooklyn, NY 11224
Vitaly RAYKHMAN, MD
2632 E 14th St Brooklyn, NY 11235 107-15 Jamaica Ave Queens, NY 11418 www.nyui.org
1153 First Ave New York, NY 10065
2511 Ocean Ave, Ste 102 Brooklyn, NY 11229 2444 86Th St, Ste A Brooklyn, NY 11214 116-02 Queens Blvd Forest Hills, NY 11375 1975 Hylan Blvd Staten Island, NY 10306
Interborough DEVELOPMENTAL & CONSULTATION CENTER 1623 Kings Hwy, Fl 4 Brooklyn, NY 11229
(888) 987-5751
1810 Voorhies Ave Brooklyn, NY 11235
USA VEIN CLINICS
(347) 508-3991
(718) 946-8586
260 W Sunrise Hwy, Ste 102 Valley Stream, NY 11581 4159 Broadway Washington Heights, NY 10033 59-20 Myrtle Ave Queens, NY 11385 30-33 Steinway St Astoria, NY 11103
(718) 509-0906 www.usaveinclinics.com
www.4health.net
LAW
(718) 227-5505
www.nyui.org
www.nyplasticsurgerycenter.com
(855) 328-5525
2493 Richmond Rd, Ste 2 Staten Island, NY 10306
(347) 508-3991
(877) 582-0400
2444 86th St, Ste A Brooklyn, NY 11214
Alexander SOKOL, MD
(718) 502-9112
Michael PATIN, MD
6417 Bay Pkwy Brooklyn, NY 11204
(718) 234-6767
102-51 Queens Blvd Forest Hills, NY 11375
(718) 896-2333
4HEALTH Magazine™ gathers data from a variety of different sources, public and private. While we strive to provide the most accurate, up-to-date information possible, we can't guarantee that our listings are completely free of errors. If you feel some data is missing or inaccurate, please feel free to contact us at any time. Thank you for your support!
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Do your feet hurt? 40
4HEALTH
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF FOOT PROBLEMS IN ADULTS AND CHILDREN:
Bunion
Nail Fungus
Warts
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4159 Broadway, Washington Heights, NY 10033
59-20 Myrtle Ave, Queens, NY 11385
2444 86th St, Ste A, Bensonhurst, NY 11214 www.4health.net