HIN Fall 2015 by The Covington News

FALL 2015

What is a STRESS TEST? Better Communication EQUALS LESS STRESS

Managing Diabetes THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS!

“Take me to Atlanta”

Rockdale

Lifesaving Cardiac Care Now Available. When someone has heart attack symptoms, you know that every minute matters. A shorter drive for treatment can translate into better outcomes for the patient. Rockdale Medical Center now offers complete PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) procedures for patients with heart attack symptoms.

• Angioplasty & Stenting Procedures • Interventional Cardiologists from Piedmont Heart Institute • Accredited Chest Pain Center If you are experiencing chest pain or heart attack symptoms, Call 9-1-1 and, tell EMS to "Take me to Rockdale". To find a physician in your area, call 1-800-424-3627 (DOCS).

RockdaleMedicalCenter.org 2 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

The magazine that reflects the healthy lifestyles of the residents of the Newton County area and beyond.

VOLUME 2, NO. 7, FALL 2015

Editor: Michelle Kim Comptroller: Debbie Thompson Sales Director: Annette Godwin Graphics/Layout Design: Carol Massey Contributing Writers: Lee Udell; Muthu Kuttappan, MD; Anne Grant, MD; Don Cotton, LPC, CHT, CNLP

SUBMISSIONS Unsolicited queries and submissions of art and writing not accompained by a self-addressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Response time varies and Healthy in Newton cannot assume responsibility for unsolicited materials. To contact the editor by email, address correspondence to mkim@rockdalenews.com

ADVERTISING Information regarding advertising and rates are available by contacting Annette Godwin by phone 770.883.6698 or email agodwin@rockdalenews.com.

HEALTHY IN NEWTON c/o The Covington News 1166 Usher Street, Covington, Georgia 30014 Phone 770-787-6397 / Fax 770-787-6451 www.covnews.com

FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

e H E A LT H Y I N N E W T O N • FA L L 2 0 1 5 • V O L U M E 2 , N O . 7 f

CONTENTS

Features 8

SCHOOL & SPORTS PHYSICALS

4 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

COOLSCULPTING THE FAT FREEZER

WHAT COLOR IS YOUR FOOD

CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE

FALL 2015

What is a STRESS TEST? Managing Diabetes THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS!

Better Communication Equals LESS STRESS

ABOUT THE COVER It’s easy to get excited about all the seasonal, edible treats surrounding us in the next few months. But if you’re a diabetic, it is also easy to get discouraged. We have a few tips to help you enjoy your holidays.

WHAT IS CONCIERGE MEDICINE

HEARING EVALUATION

FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

k FALL FEATURE

We Need to Talk Better Communication Equals Lower Stress and Better Health

By Don Cotton, LPC, CHT, CNLP

ery few words produce more emotion than “We need to talk.” The question conjures almost every possible scenario. Your first thought may be “What have I done”? Or it could be, “Finally. Let’s get this settled.” The fact is, your reaction to the statement can be totally different, depending upon your gender, your age or your relationship with the one who wants to “talk.” Males may automatically assume the conversation won’t be very pleasant. After all, it may involve something emotional, a basic fear in the male gender. Females, on the other hand, may become inquisitive or even excited. Why? Because most females actually enjoy talking about their emotions. The geriatric set is quite diverse in their reaction. They could be happy just to have someone to talk to, or they could be indifferent, at a stage in life where they just don’t care. Children might feel the need to

6 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

run or go into that blank stare mode. Teenagers, well, who knows? Good communication with our loved ones, friends and associates is essential to reducing stress and anxiety, which in turn has a positive impact on many health outcomes. Comfort and Communication: Give yourself this test. Who do you most like being with, and who do you least like being with? Odds are your answers are based greatly on the history and comfort of your communication. Imagine this: your boss or significant other says you need to talk. Depending upon the health of that relationship, a number of thoughts may emerge. If you like your boss, the company is doing well, and your performance has been good, you can assume it’s simply a work-related matter. On the other hand, if you feel like your boss doesn’t like you much, the company is struggling, or you’ve already had a reprimand, you’ll probably assume the worst. Likewise, if your relationship with your significant other has been good and there have been

few disagreements, you may not be rattled. But, if the relationship has been less than satisfactory, your mind may fill with negative possibilities. More Than Words: It’s important to understand that communication is more than just words. Imagine this: you’re talking to someone, who turns his head and rolls his eyes. How do you interpret that? Most people would believe it means the other person has little or no respect for what’s being said. The eye-rolling will, in turn, provoke a reaction from you, and chances are this conversation will be less than productive. Experts speculate communication is somewhere between 60-90% nonverbal. It involves facial expressions, tone of voice, level of voice, and body language. Think about that. You’re probably saying more than you realize. Humans are born with the ability and necessity to read others and respond in a survival manner. Think of someone you feel very uneasy with, but just can’t explain why. That’s the survival skill you were born with. We’ve been reading people longer than we’ve been talking. Young children are heavily influenced by facial expressions, tone and level of voice, and body language. A loud, angry-sounding information positive talk voice may cause a child to shut down and actually not e ective positive discu ion positive hear what’s being said. Infants have no word skills, hear talk but can still communicate. If you make a happy face, hear chances are they will, too. They cry if they are talk listen uncomfortable, hungry or sleepy. And hear they have a really cool way of letting talk hear you know it’s diaper time. listen hear discu ion It Takes Two to Tango: positive barrier hear understand Dialogue is still possibly the talk hear highest and most beneficial positive e ective discu ion form of communication. a ention talk a ention barrier communication information Dialogue can involve two information listen or more people agreeing to work together in a barrier understand communication respectful manner to e ective understand listen understand a ention a ention negative resolve an issue. Dialogue positive talk positive allows for differences of negative opinion without attacking the other person for the difference. Dialogue can foster an exchange of ideas put forth in a rational manner, without allowing negative emotions to create an argument. It can create a safe environment for each one involved to fully express themselves without feeling the need to win. It’s not about winning, but about peaceful resolution. We have the ability to produce a happy, healthy environment or one that is full of chaos and anxiety. Our manner of communication can make all the difference. hear

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FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

written by Lee Udell eading back to school these days takes more than a new wardrobe and an apple for the teacher. Most likely, your child will need to pay a visit to the doctor, as well. Schools — including colleges — require a dizzying array of immunizations, and tests may be necessary to evaluate hearing and vision. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) web site explains childhood vaccinations, and your school district can tell you what vaccinations your child may need. And, of course, your physician will be able to not only give you information

about vaccinations, but can also provide all the immunizations you need. Even though schools sometimes provide vision and hearing screenings, physicians recommend you have this done by a doctor’s office. The reason is simple: Kids who can’t see or hear well can’t perform as well in school. And doctors agree that children often appear to have better vision or hearing on in-school testing, because the tests are much easier to “fake.” Another reason to visit the doctor is a sports physical, which may be required for fall sports, like cross country or football. Be sure to allow plenty of time to get this examination before the sports season begins, because follow-up evaluation or testing may be required after your initial doctor visit. Most physicians also recommend an annual physical for school-aged children, as well as adults — which includes college students. If your child is healthy, this may be the only visit he or she has with a doctor for the entire year. Dr. Anne Grant with Premier Internal Medicine in Covington offers a complete array of back-to-school services for all ages. To schedule an appointment today, call 770-787-5600.

PREMIER INTERNAL MEDICINE Welcomes New Patients in Our Social Circle office

Women’s Wellness • Acute Illness • Chronic Disease • Hypertension • Diabetes • Cholesterol • Thyroid • Physicals

Walk Ins Welcome Sports Physicals $20 (ages 10 and older)

Bernadette Alexis-Destin, FNP-BC

200 Brookstone Place, Suite B, Social Circle, GA 30025 • 770-464-2540 Hours Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Friday: 8:00 AM – Noon

Please call today to schedule your appointment

770-464-2540

Most major insurance plans accepted including Medicare and Medicaid.

8 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

Anne A nnee G Grant, rant, M MD D Internal Medicine ROCKDALE PHYSICIAN PRACTICES Remarkable People. Remarkable Medicine.

Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

Emergency Room OR Urgent Care? written by Lee Udell

t’s Friday evening, and your child has a sore throat and fever. You’re thinking strep throat, because another child at school has it. After all, strep throat is highly contagious among kids, because streptococcal bacteria spread through airborne droplets, as well as through shared food or drinks. Children can also pick up the bacteria from a doorknob, toy or other surface and transfer them to their nose, mouth or eyes. So, what now? Do you tough it out until the pediatrician’s office opens Monday morning? Or do you shell out big bucks for an ER co-pay and wait for hours, along with every other sick, contagious person

in town? Potential complications, like scarlet fever or even rheumatic fever, make it unwise to delay getting treatment for your child. And, at the very least, beginning treatment sooner, rather than later, will get your child feeling better and ready to head back to school by Monday. Thankfully, there’s an alternative to costly, stressful ER visits. Urgent Care facilities, which offer weekend and evening hours, provide quick access to care for urgent medical issues which aren’t life threatening, such as sore throats, earaches, acute illness, sprains, minor cuts, and more. Urgent Care facilities aren’t meant to replace your physician, but they can provide care when your doctor’s office is closed or you can’t get an appointment as soon as you’d like. If you or your child needs urgent care, help is as close as Georgia Primary and Urgent Care, Brown Bridge Road at Highway 212 in Covington. Call 678-625-4411 to learn more.

GEORGIA PRIMARY & URGENT CARE WE TREAT THESE CONDITIONS AND MORE:

• Minor injuries and burns • Urinary tract infections • Minor lacerations • Sore throats, ear aches • Skin rashes, infections • Diabetes • Women’s Health • Asthma • Sick children • Bronchitis • Sprains • Vomiting, diarrhea • Sutures/Suture removal • Animal and insect bites • High blood pressure • Allergies

SPORTS PHYSICALS $20.00

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK K NEW HOURS

Mon-Fri: Noon - 8:00 p.m. m. Sat: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sun: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY Most Insurance Accepted

Walk-ins Welcome! Lab and X-Ray On Site!

678-625-4441

7138 Highway 212 • Suite A, Covington, GA 30016

Veronica D’antignac, NP-C, Elizabeth McElmurry, PA, Melissa Fagan, NP-C

FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

TREAT TO TRANSFORMATION WITH COOLSCULPTING Clothes Fit Better, Feel Better, Look Better

Before

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DERMATOLOGICAL CARE FOR THE

ENTIRE FAMILY SERVICES:

General • Surgical • Cosmetic Dermatology Aesthetic & Laser Treatments • Botox® & Fillers Featuring CoolSculpting® to Reduce Fat

Fiona O. Zwald MD

Dione V. Marcus Michelle L. Juneau Charle’ L. Cameron MD

PA-C

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE Convenient Hours: 7:00am - 4:30pm • Monday - Friday Call us today to schedule your consultation

4151 Hospital Drive • Covington, GA 30014

770-784-0343

dermatologyconsultants.org 10 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

CoolSculpting…

THE FAT FREEZER written by Lee Udell

f you’re ready to say goodbye to muffin tops, love handles and saddlebags on the thighs, then say hello to CoolSculpting®. This innovative, non-invasive process can help you lose those annoying bumps and bulges of stubborn fat safely, in the comfort of your doctor’s office. Requiring less time and money than traditional invasive treatments, CoolSculpting is FDA approved and clinically proven to reshape your body, often in only a single treatment. And it’s equally effective for both men and women. The idea that cold can selectively affect fat led to the innovative cooling process developed by scientists at the Wellman Center for Photomedicine at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School. The CoolSculpting procedure uses a precisely controlled cooling method to gently and effectively target the fat cells underneath the skin, without damage to neighboring tissue. An applicator is applied, using a vacuum, and when the applicator is securely attached, the cooling begins. The treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen), then break down and die. After the procedure, your own body begins the process of naturally eliminating the dead cells. “Once they’re gone, they’re gone,” says Kim Bogash, CoolSculpting Team Leader for Dermatology Consultants. One session lasts about an hour, and Ms. Bogash says most patients experience only minor discomfort. “After the first 15 minutes, you really feel nothing,” she explains. “You can read, you can watch a movie, you can

listen to music.” The CoolSculpting fat freezing procedure is completely non-surgical, so you can typically return to normal activities immediately. Some patients experience redness, minor bruising, tingling, numbness or discomfort in the treated area, but this is temporary and will resolve completely. Often times, patients return to work after their CoolSculpting session is over. Over the next two to four months the crystallized fat cells break down and are naturally flushed from your body through your lymphatic system. The areas treated will naturally flatten out during this time. Each treatment should yield about 2025% in fat reduction. Typically, when both love handles and full abdomen are treated, you’ll see a one- to two-inch decrease in the waistline. After the initial treatment cycle is complete, you can attain further reductions with additional procedures. Many find one treatment fully addresses their goals. “Dermatology Consultants has performed over 3,700 treatments in five years,” Ms. Bogash says. “We’re a Certified CoolSculpting Practice with highly trained and knowledgeable staff in our Covington, Buckhead, and Marietta locations. Our technicians have attained advanced training from Cool University. “In fact, Dermatology Consultants is among the few centers in Georgia offering DualSculpting™ in our Buckhead, Marietta and Covington locations,” Ms. Bogash continues. “We can treat two areas at the same time, reducing overall treatment times.”

To learn more about CoolSculpting, call Dermatology Consultants at 770-784-0343 or visit their website at www.dermatologyconsultants.org. The skilled and helpful staff at Dermatology Consultants will be glad to discuss and design a plan that suits you best.

FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

WHAT COLOR is Your Food?

Purple and blue options are loaded with antioxidants and can improve memory, mineral absorption and urinary tract health, and may reduce cancer risks in the digestive tract. • Fruits: blackberries, blueberries, plums and raisins • Vegetables: eggplant, purple cabbage and purpleou can keep your family healthy by adding color and fleshed potato taste to every meal. Sometimes we tend to eat the same or similar things over and over again and slip into so- Red indicates produce that may help maintain a healthy called “food ruts.” One way to switch things up and encourage heart by lowering blood pressure and reducing LDL healthier food choices is by simply incorporating a variety of cholesterol levels, as well as improve vision and immunity. colors into your family’s meals. • Fruits: cherries, cranberries, pomegranate, red/pink Different colored fruits and vegetables provide distinct – grape fruit, red grapes, strawberries and watermelon and equally important – vitamins and minerals that kids need • Vegetables: beets, red onions, red peppers, red to grow and stay strong. The foods listed below are nutrition potatoes, rhubarb and tomatoes powerhouses that your family will love. White, tan and brown foods sometimes contain nutrients Green produce indicates antioxidant potential and may help that may promote heart health, reduce cancer risks, and promote healthy vision, lower blood pressure, regulate the stimulate a healthy GI tract. digestive tract, and boost immune system activity. • Fruits: banana, brown pear, dates and white peaches • Fruits: avocado, apples, grapes, pears, honeydew, kiwi and • Vegetables: cauliflower, mushrooms, onions, parsnips, lime turnips, white-fleshed potato and white corn • Vegetables: artichoke, asparagus, broccoli, green beans, • Probiotic: cultured buttermilk, kefir and yogurt green peppers and leafy greens such as spinach The physicians at Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates Orange and deep yellow fruits and vegetables contain see patients at more than 35 locations across metro nutrients that promote healthy vision and immunity, promote Atlanta, including an office in Conyers and Lithonia and collagen formation and healthy joints, work with calcium to an accredited endoscopy center in Lithonia. With three build healthy bones, and reduce the risk of some cancers. pediatric offices to serve infants, children, and teens – • Fruits: apricot, cantaloupe, grapefruit, mango, papaya, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs and a new location opening in peach, oranges and pineapple Duluth – getting the right kind of care for the whole family • Vegetables: carrots, yellow pepper, yellow corn and sweet is easy. To make an appointment, call 1.866.GO.TO.AGA potatoes [468.6242], or visit www.atlantagastro.com.

Specialists in the Detection and Treatment of Digestive Diseases, Hepatitis and Colon Cancer

Almost every adult will suffer from digestive issues during their lifetime. Whether it's a touch of indigestion or abdominal pain that won’t subside, you deserve the best possible care. The specialists at Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates are experts in colon cancer screenings and evaluating and treating every type of digestive disorder, including: • Crohn’s Disease | UC • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Acid Reflux | Ulcers

• Liver Disease • Hiatal Hernias • Diarrhea

• Hepatitis • Intestinal Polyps • Constipation

• Barrett’s Esophagus • Heartburn • Hemorrhoids

With our convenient location in Conyers, getting the care you need has never been easier. 1501 Milstead Road Suite 120 Conyers, Georgia 30012 Appointments Available Monday - Friday

678.745.3033 www.atlantagastro.com 1.866.GO.TO.AGA [468.6242] Barry Levitt, M.D.

Mahmoud B. Barrie, M.D.

12 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

David Rabin, M.D. AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

Paresh P. Kamat, M.D.

THE PERCENTAGE DAILY VALUE (% DV)

SERVING SIZE

All the nutrition information on a label is based on a precise quantity of food called the serving size. The serving size might be described in grams, ounces, cups, or pieces. Consumers must be careful when comparing the nutritional value of food products that are not calculated using the same type of measurement or quantity of food.

CHOLESTEROL

Cholesterol in food is a type of fat that comes from animal sources. Too much of it can cause heart disease and other health problems. Highcholesterol foods include beef, egg yolks, cheese, poultry, as well as certain junk foods and pastries. Look for food that has the lowest possible amount of cholesterol.

SODIUM

While your body actually needs some sodium to function properly (1500 mg per day for an adult), a diet too high in sodium can lead to health problems. For your sake, limit your daily intake.

PROTEIN

PHOTO: BANANASTOCK / COMSTOCK IMAGES / THINKSTOCK

Protein contains four calories per gram, just as carbohydrates do. Protein plays a big role in muscle, cell, organ, and gland functions, which makes it an important nutrient to look for on a food label. Don’t be afraid of high numbers here!

Producers and manufacturers also calculate the nutritional value of their packaged food as a percentage of average daily requirements. These percentages are based on a 2,000-calorie a day adult diet. As a rule of thumb for all nutrients, remember that 5 percent and less is a little, and 15 percent and more is a lot.

Nutrition Facts Per 1 slice (44 g) Amount

% Daily Value

Calories 120 Fat 3.5 g Saturated 3.0 g

5% 2%

CALORIES

The number listed here indicates the total calories found per serving. Calories in food come from carbohydrates, protein, and fat. If you eat two servings, remember that you then need to multiply the number of calories listed by two. People sometimes overlook this and think that the entire package contains the number of calories shown.

Trans 0.5 g Cholesterol 20 mg

FAT

Sodium 220 mg

Carbohydrate 20 g

Fibre 1 g

Sugars 2 g

The first number beside this heading indicates the total amount of fat in one serving. Listed below that amount are the descriptions and quantities of the specific types of fats contained within. Saturated fat and trans fats are unhealthy for your heart and should be limited. Polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats are the ones you want to see on your food labels. They are the “good guys” that can actually prevent health problems.

Protein 2 g Vitamin A

Vitamin C

Calcium

Iron

CARBOHYDRATES

Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy. This number tells you how many grams of carbohydrates are in one serving of food. The total is then broken down into grams of sugar and grams of dietary fibre. The best foods for health contain low sugar and high fibre. High carbohydrate values are found in foods composed of starches (pasta, rice, bread), sugars (honey, high-fructose corn syrup, candies), and fibre (vegetables and fruits).

How to decode nutrition information As you head to the grocery store to stock up on fresh and prepared foods, you may be thinking that you want to eat well but you don’t know what all that stuff means on the food labels. Pre-packaged foods are required to show information about what they contain so that consumers can make informed choices about what they eat. This mandatory food labelling must show a list of the product’s ingredients and a nutrition facts table. NUTRITION FACTS TABLE This tool has recently been added to packaging to inform consumers about the quantities of the basic nutrients present in the food as well as the amount of calories. Generally speaking, most people want to increase their intake of nutrients such as calcium, iron, fibre, vitamin A, and vitamin C, and reduce their intake of saturated and trans-fats as well as sodium. LIST OF INGREDIENTS This is a list of all the ingredients contained in a food product. The ingredients must be listed in order of weight, from most to least. That means that the food contains more of the ingredients at the beginning of the list and fewer of the ingredients at the end of the list. FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

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1292 1 12 292 W Wellbrook ellbrook Circle, Circle ircle, Suite Suite te A A,, C Conyers, onyers, G GA A3 30012 0012 12

DIAGNOSTIC DIAG GNOST IC C CARDIOLOGY A R D I O LO G Y • • • •

Homayoun S. Amin, Am MD, FACC

Rajasekhar Raja Ra jase sekh khar Red Reddy, eddy ed dy, dy MD, FACC

Gregoryy Pe Petr Petro, ro, MD, FACC C MD,

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VASCULAR V A S C U LA R S SERVICES ERV VICES

Camille N Nelson, elson, FACC MD, FA ACC

Pritam Pr rit itam am R R.. Po Polk Polkampally, lkam lk mpa palllly, FSCAI MD, FACC, FS SCAI AI

Conyers Location: Loocation:

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7770-692-4000 70-692-4000

11292 12 92 Wellbrook CCircle, iricle, Suite A Conyers, GGAA 30012 Co

350 Co Country ountryy Club Club Dri Drive, riive, Suite A Stockbridge, Stockb St kbbridg dge, e GAA 30281 30028 2 1

14 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

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Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

oronary artery disease is caused by plaque buildup in the wall of the arteries that supply blood to the heart (called coronary arteries). Plaque is made up of cholesterol deposits. Plaque buildup causes the inside of the arteries to narrow over time. This process is called atherosclerosis. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease in the United States. For some people, the first sign of CAD is a heart attack. You and your health care team may be able to help you reduce your risk for CAD. Causes of CAD CAD is caused by plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries that Blausen.com staff supply blood to the heart (called coronary arteries) and other parts of the body. Plaque is made up of deposits of cholesterol and other substances in the artery. Plaque buildup causes the inside of the arteries to narrow over time, which could partially or totally block the blood flow. This process is called atherosclerosis.

Too much plaque buildup and narrowed artery walls can make it harder for blood to flow through your body. When your heart muscle doesn’t get enough blood, you may have chest pain or discomfort, called angina. Angina is the most common symptom of CAD. Over time, CAD can weaken the heart muscle. This may lead to heart failure, a serious condition where the heart can’t pump blood the way that it should. An irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, also can develop. Diagnosing CAD To find out your risk for CAD, your health care team may measure your blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels. Being overweight, physical inactivity, unhealthy eating, and smoking tobacco are risk factors for CAD. A family history of heart disease also increases your risk for CAD. If you’re at high risk for heart disease or already have symptoms, your doctor can use several tests to diagnose CAD.

Test

What it Does

ECD or EKG (electrocardiogram)

Measures the electrical activity, rate, and regularity of your heartbeat.

Echocardiogram

Uses ultrasound (special sound wave) to create a picture of the heart.

Exercise stress test Measures your heart rate while you walk on a treadmill. This helps to determine how well your heart is working when it has to pump more blood. Chest X-ray Uses x-rays to create a picture of the heart, lungs, and other organs in the chest. Cardiac catheterization Checks the inside of your arteries for blockage by inserting a thin, flexible tube through an artery in the groin, arm, or neck to reach the heart. Health care professionals can measure blood pressure within the heart and the strength of blood flow through the heart’s chambers as well as collect blood samples from the heart or inject dye into the arteries of the heart (coronary arteries). Coronary angiogram Monitors blockage and flow of blood through the coronary arteries. Uses X-rays to detect dye injected via cardiac catheterization.

FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

Have a Healthy and Sweet Holiday Season

t’s easy to get excited about all the seasonal, edible treats surrounding us this time of year. But if you have diabetes, it is also easy to get discouraged about fitting all those high fat, high carbohydrate temptations into a diabetes friendly meal plan. Depriving yourself of special holiday foods, or feeling guilty about enjoying controlled portions of them, is not a healthy eating strategy. Nor will it keep you in the holiday spirit. Stay in control of your holiday eating by being prepared with the following tips: • Don’t show up to a party starving. It will just make it harder not to overeat. Minimize hunger by staying hydrated and eating a light snack about one hour before attending a gathering. • Offer to bring an appetizer – just don’t tell anyone it’s a healthy one! Boiled shrimp, lowerfat deviled eggs, a vegetable platter or fruit and cheese kabobs gives you low carbohydrate options to nibble.

• Be careful not to drink up extra calories and carbs. One cup of eggnog or punch will set you back about 30 grams of carbohydrates. Opt for water, un-sweet tea or a splash of juice mixed with seltzer water. This strategy lets you save those carbs for that special dessert you have been eyeing all night. So, sure, keep eating your veggies over the holiday. Just make sure they come from sources other than just zucchini bread, sweet potato pie and carrot cake! For more tips and guidance about holiday meal planning with diabetes, join us at the Newton Medical Center Diabetes Support Group for a free nutrition talk on November 2 at 11 am. Kenna Glick, MS, RDN, LD, CDE will be sharing her knowledge as a Registered Dietitian and a Certified Diabetes Educator to empower you to enjoy a healthy, holiday dining season. The meeting will be held in the Physicians’ Pavilion building to the right of the hospital. For more information about the free Diabetes Support Group, call 770-385-4394.

DIABETES EDUCATION SERVICES AT NEWTON MEDICAL CENTER DIABETES SELF-MANAGEMENT EDUCATION CLASSES • Comprehensive diabetes classes, including meal planning assistance and glucose monitoring techniques • Call 770-385-4185 for more information DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP • Free monthly support group meeting with guest speakers • Meets the first Monday of most months • Call 770-385-4394 for more information

MEET OUR REGISTERED DIETITIANS! Kenna Glick, MS, RDN, LD, CDE Kenna has been with Newton Medical Center for seven years where she oversees the dietary needs of inpatients, consults with outpatients and facilitates the Diabetes Self-Management Education Program. In 2014, Kenna achieved the Certified Diabetes Educator® status by successfully completing the Certification Examination for Diabetes Educators. Newton Medical Center is proud of Kenna’s accomplishment of earning her CDE status as it demonstrates a level of expertise and competency in the delivery of diabetes education. Whitney Lay, MS, RDN, LD Newton Medical Center is excited to announce that Whitney has joined our registered dietitian team. Whitney’s passion for wanting to help people eat healthy through proper nutrition education led her down the path to become a registered dietitian. Whitney attended Oregon State University where she completed the Accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics. She then earned a Master of Science in Nutrition from the University of Georgia.

16 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

Pecan Pie Bites

Crustless Pumpkin Pie

Ingredients ½ of an 8-ounce package reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchatel), softened ¼ cup 60% to 70% tub-style vegetable oil spread (any trans-free margarine should work) 1 cup all-purpose flour ½ cup refrigerated or frozen egg product, thawed, or 2 eggs, lightly beaten 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons sugar substitute blend (Splenda® Sugar Blend for Baking or Sun Crystals® baking blend) ¼ cup sugar-free maple syrup 1 tablespoon 60% to 70% tub-style vegetable oil spread, melted ½ teaspoon vanilla 2/3 cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted 12 pecan halves (optional)

Ingredients 1 15-ounce can pumpkin Sugar substitute* equivalent to 1/3 cup sugar 2 tablespoons honey 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice ½ cup refrigerated or frozen egg product, thawed, or 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla ¾ cup evaporated fat-free milk

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. For pastry, in a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and ¼ cup vegetable oil spread with an electric mixer on medium speed until combined. Stir in flour. Divide dough into 12 equal portions. Using 12 ungreased 2 1/2-inch muffin cups, press each portion evenly into the bottom and up the side of one of the cups (pastry will be thin). Bake for 15 minutes (pastry will shrink slightly as it bakes). 2. For pecan filling, in a medium bowl, whisk together egg, sugar, syrup, the 1 tablespoon melted vegetable oil spread and the vanilla until combined. Stir in the chopped pecans. Spoon mixture evenly into hot pastrylined muffin cups. If desired, top each cup with a pecan half. 3. Bake about 30 minutes more or until pastry is golden and filling is puffed. Cool slightly in muffin cups. Carefully remove pies from muffin cups and transfer to a wire rack. Cool about 20 minutes; serve warm. Mini pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let stand at room temperature for 1 hour before serving. Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Servings Per Recipe: 20 PER SERVING: 150 cal., 10 g total fat (3 g sat. fat), 7 mg chol., 89 mg sodium, 10 g carb., 1 g fiber, 3 g protein Diabetic Exchanges: 1 carb.

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8-inch springform pan. In a medium bowl, combine pumpkin, sugar substitute, honey and pie spice. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat lightly just until combined. Gradually stir in evaporated milk. Pour into prepared pan and place on a foil-lined baking sheet. 2. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until center appears set when gently shaken. Cool for 1 hour on a wire rack. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours before serving. 3. To serve, loosen pie from sides of pan by running a thin metal spatula around the edge. Remove sides of pan. Cut pie into wedges to serve. Makes 8 servings (1 slice each). *Sugar Substitutes: Suggested products are Splenda granular or Sweet’N Low bulk or packets. Follow package directions to use product amount equivalent to 1/3 cup sugar. Nutrition Facts Servings Per Recipe: 8 PER SERVING: 67 cal., 1 mg chol., 59 mg sodium, 13 g carb., 2 g fiber, 4 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 carb.

For more recipes like these, visit www.diabeticlivingonline.com

For more information about our diabetes classes and support group, call 770-385-4185. FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON 17

What is... Concierge Medicine?

DVIP (Value In Prevention) is considered “Concierge Medicine,” a term that seems to convey a highly expensive service, reserved for the elite and certainly cost-prohibitive to the average person. In actuality, the MDVIP program allows physicians to spend time getting to know their patients and treating them individually. Prevention is key, and preventive medicine can be looked at in a dual manner: keeping you healthy or managing a chronic ailment. Through the MDVIP program, keeping you on a healthy path is primary. Wellness evaluations, strategizing your unique health goals, and consultations help accomplish this goal. Screenings, specialized tests and the ability to use the latest technology help identify patients at risk for specific diseases. With MDVIP, the individual will be able to map out a strategic plan to continue to enjoy good health. Managing chronic ailments is another specialized area for the MDVIP physician. Chronic obstructive

18 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

pulmonary disease, or COPD, a serious lung disease, is an example of a chronic ailment. The ability to see a physician when problems first flare up might prevent a patient from ending up in the hospital. Diabetes is another example of the Value In Prevention with MDVIP. Mounting evidence shows that early, aggressive management of blood sugar, along with control of blood lipids (good and bad cholesterol) and blood pressure can make controlling type 2 diabetes easier down the road. The same is true for patients managing many other serious diseases. The sooner they can be treated by the doctor, the better the outcome. The literal definition of “concierge” is personal assistant, and that describes how Dr. Michael Manning operates, personally “assisting” you in maintaining your good health. Dr. Manning has an open invitation, free of charge, to anyone interested in learning about the MDVIP program. Please contact him directly at 678413-7979 to make an appointment. (NOTE: Most insurance accepted, including Medicare.)

Personalized health care to fit your needs!

Prevention Program Includes: • • • • •

Home Visits Extensive Physical Exams Speciﬁc Screenings and Tests Pre-health Risk Assessment Yearly Physicals

Most ted, p e c c a s e c n a Insur e edicar

including M

Call Today For An Appointment

678-413-7979

2215 Exchange Place SE Conyers, GA 30013

Dr. Michael Manning

Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION v written by Anne Grant, MD

exual dysfunction is a disturbance in sexual desire, arousal, orgasm or pain with intercourse that may result in personal distress. It is highly prevalent in women. Approximately 40% of women in the United States experience sexual dysfunction and 12% report distressing sexual problems. This disorder may be acquired after a period of normal sexual function or may be a result of lifelong problems. Sexual disorders may be a result of physiological or psychological problems. It may also be secondary to interpersonal relationships or sociocultural beliefs. A lack or low sexual desire is the most common complaint, however, the cause can also be multifactorial. Physiologic causes include endometriosis, atrophic vaginitis and pelvic floor hypo tonus which can result in painful intercourse.

Psychological causes include anxiety and depression, fatigue, stress, lack of privacy, history of sexual abuse or interpersonal relationship conflicts. Medication, both prescription and nonprescription, can alter sexual desire, arousal and orgasm. When women are in a healthy relationship with their partner and are physically and psychologically healthy, they are more likely to be satisfied with their sex life and less likely to experience sexual dysfunction. After careful evaluation of sexual, social and surgical history, evaluation of psychiatric status and medication use, a physical exam is then performed by a physician and only then can treatment options be discussed and initiated. Treatment often improves sexual function for many women.

PREMIER INTERNAL MEDICINE Most major insurance plans accepted including Medicare. Women’s Wellness • Physicals • Women’s Wellness • Acute Illness • Chronic Disease • Hypertension • Diabetes • Cholesterol • Thyroid

Covington Office: 5294 Adams Street, Covington, GA 30014 770-787-5600 Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Thursday: Noon – 7:00 PM

Sports Physicals $20

Please call today to schedule your appointment

770-787-5600

20 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

Anne Grant, MD Internal Medicine ROCKDALE PHYSICIAN PRACTICES Remarkable People. Remarkable Medicine.

Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

When do you need a

MAMMOGRAM?

n 2014, 59 women were diagnosed with breast cancer at the Women’s Diagnostic Center and at the time of this article, 45 women have already been diagnosed this year. These high numbers in our own community show why it is so important to create awareness of breast cancer and promote routine screenings. As a Certified Quality Breast Center, the Women’s Diagnostic Center has a team in place ready to support and assist women with their breast health. The team is comprised of physicians with excellent training and many years of experience who work hand in hand with the staff and Nurse Navigator Wendy Hankins, RN, CN-BN. Breast Cancer Screening Check List: o Have a yearly screening mammogram starting at age 40 and continue for as long as you are in good health o Have a clinical breast exam about every three years if you are in your 20s and 30s and every year if you are 40 and over o Know how your breasts normally look and feel and report any breast changes to your health care provider right away. Breast self-exam is an option starting in your 20s o Visit www.cancer.org and sign up for breast cancer screening reminders by email o Promote the importance of routine screenings to all the women in your life

The Women’s Diagnostic Center is located in the Physicians’ Pavilion at 4181 Hospital Drive, Suite 301 in Covington, Georgia. For more information or to schedule your annual mammogram, please call the Women’s Diagnostic Center at 770-385-7800.

Do you know that you can schedule a screening mammogram without a physician order? For more information or to schedule your annual mammogram call 770-385-7800 today. Saturday appointments are available from 8 am to noon.

Protect Your Life…Get a Mammogram

Meet the Team!

Steven Whitworth, MD; Gayla Dillard, MD; April Speed, MD; John Gargus, MD; Wendy Hankins, RN, CN-BN; Amanda Bauer, MD; Aileen O’Neill, MD

Breast Cancer Awareness Anchored in Hope is the theme for this year’s Hope events for breast cancer awareness sponsored by the Women’s Diagnostic Center. The events are hosted around the month of October, which is nationally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This year marks the 11th anniversary of the Hope festivities which all started with a luncheon and fashion show hosted by a group of Red Hatters. Join us in celebrating our survivors while creating awareness of breast cancer in our community by attending our Hope events: Sounds of Hope Concert Sunday, September 27 from 4 to 6 pm Bring your lawn chairs, picnics, family and friends, and come out to the Covington square for this free event. Help us honor our local survivors while we enjoy an evening of fun and music! Portraits of Hope Sunday, September 27-Saturday, October 31 Portraits of breast cancer survivors will be displayed in merchant windows around the square in beautiful historic Covington. Read the survivors’ personal stories as you shop and browse. Hope Luncheon and Fashion Show Friday, October 2 at 11:30 am The 11th Annual Hope Luncheon & Fashion Show will be held in the Church at Covington and will include lunch, a fashion show and musical entertainment. Tickets are $10 each and tables of six can be reserved for $60. Door prize tickets will be on sale at the door of the luncheon for $1 each. Event tickets are available at Newton Medical Center’s Women’s Diagnostic Center, Volunteer Services Office and the Gift Shop. Remember, early detection is the key to surviving breast cancer. If you have questions or are ready to schedule your screening mammogram, call 770-385-7800.

FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

22 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

What is

Actinic Keratosis? written by Lee Udell

kin cancer is the most prevalent of all types of cancer, and early detection is the surest way to a cure. Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans is diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime? A dermatology expert can diagnose precancerous skin conditions, such as actinic keratoses, which, if caught early, can be removed or treated to prevent them from becoming skin cancers. An actinic keratosis is a scaly or crusty growth that grows on the skin. It most often appears on the scalp, face, ears, lips, backs of the hands, forearms, shoulders, neck or any other areas of the body frequently exposed to the sun. You will often see the plural term, â&#x20AC;&#x153;keratosis,â&#x20AC;? because there is seldom just one. In the beginning, actinic keratosis are frequently so small that they are recognized by touch rather than sight. It feels as if you were running a finger over sandpaper. Patients may have many times more invisible lesions than those appearing on the surface. Most often, actinic keratosis develop slowly

and reach a size from an eighth to a quarter of an inch. Early on, they may disappear only to reappear later. Most become red, but some will be light or dark tan, pink, red, a combination of these, or the same color as your skin. Occasionally, they itch or produce a pricking or tender sensation. They can also become inflamed and surrounded by redness. In rare instances, actinic keratoses can even bleed. If you have actinic keratoses, it indicates that you have sustained sun damage that could develop into skin cancer. Our experienced dermatologists, Dr. John Fountain, Dr. Darryl Hodson & Dr. Allen Filstein, identify, diagnose, and treat all types of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinomas and malignant melanoma) on a daily basis. Georgia Dermatology is conveniently located behind Rockdale Hospital at 1349 Milstead Road or by phone at 770-785-7546. For more information, visit us at GaDerm.com. We look forward to being your dermatology provider.

FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

The Right Hospice Really Can

MAKE A DIFFERENCE written by Lee Udell

or the family of a loved one entering hospice, the whole idea can be scary and overwhelming.But, with the right hospice provider, the experience can bring a feeling of empowerment and a sense of peace. Hospice is intended to help patients maintain an alert, pain-free life, while managing other symptoms so their final days are spent with dignity and quality, surrounded by friends and family in familiar surroundings. Hospice providers can bring a high level of care to your loved one right in their own home, so they remain where they’re most comfortable and enjoy normal activities as long as possible. Hospice can integrate the physical, spiritual and emotional needs of not only patients but also families, so you gain control of your life again.Hospice providers work closely with you to tailor the care of your loved

one to meet special needs and requests that both you and your loved one may have. Longleaf Hospice, serving Newton, Rockdale and Walton counties, offers a multi-faceted, “circle of care” approach, surrounding patients and their families with support, care, and resources.This kind of compassionate care enables them to embrace the end of life with dignity, courage, and peace. Support from the care team at Longleaf Hospice extends beyond your family member or loved one’s death.Longleaf’s comprehensive bereavement program helps you as long as needed, providing ongoing contact and referring you to community support resources. To learn more about how Longleaf Hospice can provide support for you and your loved one, call 770-939-9179 today.

The Hospice You Choose Really Can Make A Difference. Our hospice experts have the character, skill and ability to deliver quality care to all our patients. We promise to help you live all of your days with dignity.

Committed to our local communities and now open in Covington Our mission is to surround patients and their families with

compassionate care

that enables them to embrace the end of life with

dignity, courage and peace.

24 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

2712 Lawrenceville Highway | Suite 200 Decatur, Georgia 30033 1132 Floyd Street | Covington, Georgia 30014 Phone: 770-939-9179 | Fax: 770-621-3083 www.LongleafHospice.com © Longleaf Hospice. 2014

hrough the creation of your memorial park, which is located on a three acre site at Black Shoals Lake in Rockdale County, we will foster a common understanding of the sacrifices and uncommon dedication of veterans and their families. The main pathway, called “Walk of Heroes”, will portray a sense of the total commitment given by these men and women during the twentieth century through war conflicts and peacetime endeavors. In a park setting, the memorial provides through a self-paced and self-guided tour, the opportunity for

the public to reflect on the rights and freedoms enjoyed by today’s citizens in the United States of America, which have been preserved by unselfish acts of all veterans. Placed Memorial Pavers The park will display a series of quotes, wall carvings, statues, and specific enclaves, dedicated to the five wars and other conflicts of the twentieth century. Also, there will be sculptures to further express the bravery of every veteran who offered his or her all to protect the rights of every citizen.

Greater love hath no one than to lay down one’s life for their friends. REMEMBER Conyers, Georgia

• Veterans have shaped our freedom during many wars around the globe from 1900 through today. • Great sacrifices were made by families at home and abroad. • Freedoms we enjoy today have been bought at a great price. • Preserving our freedom for all future generations relies on our ability to know and understand our history

REFLECT

REJOICE

• Foster an • Appreciate the understanding of freedoms and the sacrifices and rights enjoyed dedication of veterans by citizens of the United States and their families. that have been • Teach the children the preserved by price of war and the unselfish acts. cost of freedom. • Honor our veterans • Learn from lessons of and military and war. never forget their • Follow the footsteps commitment, of veterans featured in dedication, and the Walk of Heroes. sacrifice.

HELP BUILD THE DREAM

SCAN to watch our

Flythrough

videoon your smartphone

www.walkofheroes.org • 1-800-CONYERS FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON 25

11370 Wellbrook Circle Conyers, Georgia

770-922-5458 26 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

4181 Hospital Drive, NE, Suite 102 Covington, Georgia

770-385-0321

Hearing Evaluation When should I have a hearing test?

or most, hearing loss develops so gradually that it often goes unrecognized by the person involved. Recognizing and accepting hearing loss in yourself or someone you know is critical. Please take a moment to answer the following questions. Your responses will help determine the need for further hearing assistance. 1. Do you have trouble understanding conversation in noisy environments or in group settings? 2. Do you notice that you can “hear” but cannot always “understand” what others are saying? 3. Do your friends or family members complain that you turn the television volume up too loud? 4. Do you often have to ask others to repeat themselves? 5. Do you avoid social settings because you can’t hear well and fear that you’ll respond improperly? 6. Do you feel that you would hear better if others would just stop mumbling? 7. Do you notice more difficulty understanding women and children’s voices? 8. Do you have a problem hearing on the telephone? 9. Do you have trouble understanding church services? 10. Does your family express frustration about your hearing problem and ask you to seek help?

o Yes

o No

o Yes

o No

o Yes

o No

o Yes

o No

o Yes

o No

o Yes

o No

o Yes

o No

o Yes o Yes

o No o No

o Yes

o No

If you answered “YES” to any of the above questions, we recommend you contact one of our audiologists for a complete hearing evaluation.

@^ FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

WHAT IS

Stress Testing? S

• Abnormal changes in your heart’s rhythm or electrical activity During a stress test, if you can’t exercise for as long as what is considered normal for someone your age, it may be a sign that not enough blood is flowing to your heart. However, other factors besides CHD can prevent you from exercising long enough (for example, lung disease, anemia, or poor general fitness).

written by Muthu Kuttappan, MD

tress testing provides information about how your heart works during physical stress. Some heart problems are easier to diagnose when your heart is working hard and beating fast. During stress testing, you exercise (walk or run on a treadmill) to make your heart work hard and beat fast. Tests are done on your heart while you exercise. You may not have any signs or symptoms of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) when your heart is at rest. But when your heart has to work harder during exercise, it needs more blood and oxygen. Narrow arteries can’t supply enough blood for your heart to work well. As a result, signs and symptoms of CHD may occur only during exercise. A stress test can detect the following problems, which may suggest that your heart isn’t getting enough blood during exercise: • Abnormal changes in your heart rate or blood pressure • Symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, especially if they occur at low levels of exercise

Contact Dr Kuttappan’s office (770-788-7777) on Brown Bridge Road to set up an appointment for your stress test today.

Serving Rockdale & Newton for 20 years! • Geriatric Care • Diabetes • Asthma • Emphysema • Thyroid • Hypertension

• High Cholesterol • Physicals • Cardiac Stress-Test System • X-Ray on Site

Kuttappan Muthu MD 14779 Brown Bridge Road Covington, Ga 30016

770-788-7777

liate of Rockdale Medical Center

28 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

Stomach Pain? Digestive Problems? written by Lee Udell

f you’re having stomach pain or digestive problems, your first step may have been a colonoscopy or upper endoscopy, or perhaps something less invasive, like a CAT scan. Now your doctor has recommended something called endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). But what is EUS, and what happens during the procedure? EUS combines endoscopy and ultrasound to provide images and information about your digestive tract and the surrounding tissues and organs – even the lungs. A small ultrasound transducer is placed on the tip of an endoscope, a small, lighted, flexible tube with a camera attached. Images are more accurate and detailed than those obtained through colonoscopy or other imaging, because the ultrasound transducer is able to get a closer image than one obtained from the outside of the body with a traditional ultrasound. You’ll be sedated prior to the procedure, which can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, and you’ll go home the same day, after you’re awake. Your doctor will get detailed information about the layers of your intestinal wall, as well as adjacent areas of the GI tract, such as lymph nodes and blood vessels. Usually, your doctor can share this information with you the same day and let you know if tissue samples were sent out for evaluation.

If you’d like to learn more about EUS, contact the board-certified physicians at East Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates. You can schedule an appointment at their Conyers or Covington location today by calling 770-922-0505.

FRED A. LEVIN MD, FACP, FACG

KAREN L. WEISS-SCHORR MD

A. STEVEN MCINTOSH DAVID N. SOCOLOFF MD, FACG

RAZVI M. RAZACK

MD FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON DO

1380 Milstead Avenue NE, Suite E, Conyers, GA 30012

678-609-4913

DR. THOMAS L. LYONS PIONEER IN GYNECOLOGIC SURGERY

Providing care for problems including: • Endometriosis • MRKH (Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser) Syndrome • Ovarian cysts or masses • Urinary stress incontinence or loss of bladder control, in addition to other pelvic relaxation problems • Pelvic Inflammatory diseases (P.I.D.) • Uterine fibroids or benign fibroid tumors • Ovarian or uterine cancer • Infertility or reproductive disorders • Adhesive Diseases • Developed Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy

Globally renowned gynecologic surgeon, Thomas L. Lyons, MD, now with Advanced Gynecology Associates.

You may email Dr. Lyons directly at cwcrs@mindspring.com For Further information on Dr. Lyons, please visit his web-site, www.thomasllyons.com

ADVANCED GYNECOLOGY ASSOCIATES Erin Mayfield, DO Gynecology

5154 Cook Street Northeast, Covington

770-788-1778

30 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015

We seek to provide the highest level of patient care through our state-of-the-art technologies. www.advgynassoc.com

Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

Redefining

Hysterectomy F

written by Lee Udell

or several years, despite debilitating pain and heavy bleeding each month during her period, Cheryl Flieger* postponed a hysterectomy to treat her fibroids and endometriosis. “I envisioned being unable to carry on, with no one to help me, because my kids are grown and out of the house,” Cheryl said.“I dealt with the pain using occasional medication, heating pads and hot baths, because I just couldn’t bring myself to schedule this devastating operation.” Then, Dr. Thomas Lyons offered Cheryl an alternative: laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy. Just one week after surgery, Cheryl walked a mile. She was back at work two weeks to the day after the surgery was performed, and back at the athletic club doing Nautilus, Stairmaster and playing tennis within a month. “Less is more, when it comes to surgery,” said Dr. Lyons.“LSH leaves the cervix intact and is minimally invasive, and women experience significantly less discomfort and a quicker recover. Women can resume normal activity within two days and sexual intercourse within two weeks, compared to a six- to eight-week resumption with traditional abdominal hysterectomy.” Hysterectomy, surgical removal of the uterus, is one of the most common surgical procedures in the U.S. — some say too common. Each year, some 650,000 women nationwide undergo hysterectomy for abnormal uterine bleeding, fibroids (benign uterine tumors), chronic pelvic

inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and uterine or ovarian cancer. Abdominal hysterectomy typically requires four to six days in the hospital and four to six weeks recuperating at home. By contrast, LSH is performed as outpatient surgery, and most patients go home the same day. A trocar (narrow, tube-like instrument) is inserted in the patient’s navel, providing access to the abdomen. A laparoscope (tiny telescope) is connected to a camera and inserted through the trocar. A magnified image of the patient’s internal organs appears on a video monitor, allowing the surgeon to perform the hysterectomy, as well as to diagnose and treat related conditions.Two or three additional trocars are inserted to accommodate special instruments, including lasers used to detach the uterus. The laser cauterizes during the surgery, so blood loss is minimal, and the detached uterus is removed through the navel. “Laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy requires more skill than abdominal hysterectomy because you’re operating through a camera,” said Dr. Lyons. “You should choose a surgeon experienced in working with lasers and laparoscopy. Also, before you consider any surgery, your doctor should make you aware of all available medical options for relief of pain and bleeding, including non-surgical alternatives. Surgery should be performed only when absolutely necessary.” *name changed to protect privacy

If you’ve been postponing treatment for a painful gynecologic problem, schedule an appointment today with Dr. Lyons and find out if you’re a candidate for LSH. Call Advanced Gynecology Associates in Conyers at 678-609-4913.

FALL 2015 | HEALTHY IN NEWTON

Caring, Committing & Collaborating

“Postal Customer”

Schedule Your Mammogram

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 15 Monroe, GA ECRWSS

Remember, early detection is the key to surviving breast cancer. Before the holidays arrive, take the time to take care of yourself and encourage all the women in your life to do the same. The Women’s Diagnostic Center is a place made especially for women in a private and beautiful outpatient setting. Schedule your mammogram today and check one more thing off your list of things to do. Peace of mind is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and your family.

5126 Hospital Drive NE | Covington, GA 30014 | 770.786.7053 | www.newtonmedical.com

Tell your physician you want your breast health care at the Certified Quality Breast Center at Newton Medical Center!

To schedule your screening mammogram, call 770.385.7800 today 32 HEALTHY IN NEWTON | FALL 2015