Healthy in Rockdale Spring 2015 by The Covington News

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

Genetically Modified Food: Harmful or Helpful? Morning Workout What is HRT?

SPRING 2015

Serving Rockdale & Newton Area Over 16 Years!

EASTSIDE INTERNAL MEDICINE, LLC BOARD CERTIFIED, AMERICAN BOARD OF INTERNAL MEDICINE

SYED WASIM MD, MPH

FARHANA QUASEM MD

Most Insurance Accepted! Walk-Ins Welcome! On-Site Lab & X-Ray! Doctor on Call 24/7!

MASOOD SIDDIQUEE MD, MRCP (U.K.)

• Hypertension/Diabetes/High Cholesterol • Women’s Wellness • Pap Smear • Drug Screens • Physicals & Sports Physicals • Worker’s Comp. Injuries • Asthma/Emphysema • Thyroid • Depression • Men’s Health • Erectile Dysfunction • STD Treatment • Minor Surgery • Heart Failure

2080 Eastside Drive, Conyers, Georgia • 678-625-7800 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm • Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 noon

MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED 2 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

FEATURES IN FOCUS SPRING 2015

Spring Genetically Modified Foods

PAGE 6

is in the air

What is Endometriosis? PAGE 31

Get to Know the Root of Tinnitus PAGE 39

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

ISSUE GUIDE

WOMEN’S HEALTH

GENERAL HEALTH

10. Toxic Shock Syndrome

6. Genetically Modified Foods

16. What is Urogynecologic Surgery

9. Diabetes Prevention

31. What is Endometriosis?

13. 5 Rules to Reduce Colorectal Cancers

36. Gestational Diabetes

15. Emergency Room OR Urgent Care 18. About Seasonal Allergies 21. What is Mohs Micrographic Surgery 22. Colon Cancer Screening 23. Sleep Apnea 24. Making Morning Workouts Work for You 26. Develop a Taste for Healthy Eating 27. Heart Care Close to Home 29. Organized Sports Should Be Fun 32. Getting Your Mental Health Back in Shape 33. What is IBS? 35. Sun Safety 36. Gestational Diabetes 37. HRT…Not Just for Women 39. Get to the Root of Tinnitus

4 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

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

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2, SPRING 2015

T. PAT CAVANAUGH Publisher ANNETTE GODWIN Sales Director CAROL MASSEY Graphics/Layout Design

MICHELLE KIM Editor AMANDA ELLINGTON Circulation Supervisor DEBBIE THOMPSON Comptroller LEE UDELL; STEPHANIE GORDON,MD; THOMAS LYONS, MD; CHERYL KIMBALL Writers

Healthy in Rockdale Magazine is published by The News of Rockdale. No portion of this issue including publisher designed advertisements may be copied, scanned or reproduced in any manner without prior written consent from the publisher. Healthy in Rockdale accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or photographs. These will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. Healthy in Rockdale Magazine is available free to subscribers of The News. To subscribe to The News or The Covington News, please call 770-787-6397.To advertise in Healthy in Rockdale, please call 770-728-1436.

18 SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

general health

FEATURE

Genetically Modified Foods:

Harmful or Helpful? written by Lee Udell

You may not even realize it, but genetically modified foods are most likely already part of your every day diet. In fact, it’s estimated that 70% of processed foods contain some genetically modified (GM) products. That syrup you had on your pancakes this morning? Made from GM corn. And that sweetener you added to your iced tea at lunch? Sugar from GM sugar beets.

enetically modified foods have been in the news lately, with environmental groups and public interest organizations speaking out against their use. However, supporters tout the reduced costs and increased yields these genetically engineered crops produce. So, what exactly are genetically modified foods, and why have they become the new battleground in food? These new crops are most often called genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and they’re the result of genetic engineering — molecular biology techniques — that have created corn, soybeans, cotton and other crops with specific genes that help them resist pests and disease. In some cases, GMOs have enhanced nutritional content, like rice

6 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

with additional vitamins and nutrients, or potatoes engineered to reduce the amounts of potentially harmful ingredients when fried. But all this development comes as some consumers are questioning the safety of GMOs and demanding that foods made from them be labeled. Recently, two states — Oregon and Colorado — had initiatives on their ballots calling for labeling, though the measures failed in both states. According to the FDA and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), more than 40 plant varieties have completed all of the federal requirements for commercialization. Not all these products are available in supermarkets yet, but there are probably more genetically modified foods in your grocery store than you thought. While there are very, very few geneticallymodified whole fruits and vegetables available on produce stands, highly processed foods, like vegetable oils or breakfast cereals, most likely contain some tiny percentage of geneticallymodified ingredients because the raw ingredients have been pooled into one processing stream from many different sources. Also, the fact that soybean derivatives are widely used as food additives in the modern American diet virtually ensures that you’ve been exposed to GM food products.

Advantages of GMOs With the world population topping 7 billion — and expected to double in the next 50 years — ensuring adequate food supplies is sure to become an even bigger challenge. Supporters say GMOs can help meet this emerging need in a number of ways: k Herbicide tolerance: saves money and time by allowing growers to reduce the amount and frequency of herbicide application, while also limiting environmental damage k Disease resistance: resists many viruses, fungi and bacteria which cause plant disease and can devastate crops k Cold and drought tolerance: reduces the impact of unpredictable environmental conditions and allows growers to use more arid land, as other land is used to house growing populations k Nutrition: squeezes more nutritional value into commonly consumed foods, like rice, to reduce malnutrition in third-world countries k Pharmaceuticals: puts “edible” vaccines into produce, like potatoes, that is easier to ship, store and deliver than traditional injectible vaccines in third-world countries k Phytoremediation: creates plants that help clean up soil and groundwater pollution Criticisms of GMOs k Human health risks: With many children already allergic to peanuts or other foods, introducing a gene into a plant could create a new allergen. There may also be unknown effects on human health, though no research to this point has shown any such risk. k Unintended harm to other organisms: BT, a pesticide incorporated into some corn genes, has proven toxic to non-target insects in some studies, though the USDA and EPA have said these studies may be flawed. However, this does suggest the potential risk of harm to non-target organisms. k Reduced effectiveness of pesticides: It’s possible insects may become resistant to GMOs, just as they have to other types of pesticides. k Gene transfer to non-target species: Crops engineered for herbicide tolerance and weeds could cross-breed, resulting in the transfer of the herbicide resistance genes from the crops into the weeds — creating “super weeds” unaffected by herbicides.

No matter what side you take on the issue of GMOs, one of the best ways to eat healthy is still as close as your own garden — or, failing that, your neighborhood farmers’ market. In Rockdale County, Conyers Locally Grown offers a unique approach to bringing fresh fruits and vegetables to your table. When you sign up on their website, they’ll send you a list of produce — even herbs, eggs or flowers — available from their growers each week. You choose what you want, place your order, and pick up your produce at a central location in just a couple of days. Visit their website at http://conyers.locallygrown.net/ for more information. However, if you want your produce now, you can visit more traditional locations, like the Rockdale County Farmers Market, open Saturdays, June through October. For more information about the market, sponsored by the Georgia Farm Bureau and the Rockdale Extension Service, call the Extension Office at 770-278-7373.

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

8 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

Diabetes Prevention

general health FEATURE

When it comes to type 2 diabetes — the most common type of diabetes — prevention is a big deal. It’s especially important to make diabetes prevention a priority if you’re at increased risk of diabetes; for example, if you’re overweight or have a family history of the disease.

iabetes prevention is as basic as eating more healthfully, becoming more physically active and losing a few extra pounds — and it’s never too late to start. Making a few simple changes in your lifestyle now may help you avoid the serious health complications of diabetes down the road, such as nerve, kidney and heart damage. Consider the latest diabetes prevention tips from the American Diabetes Association. Tip 1: Get more physical activity There are many benefits to regular physical activity. Exercise can help you: n Lose weight n Lower your blood sugar n Boost your sensitivity to insulin — which helps keep your blood sugar within a normal range Tip 2: Get plenty of fiber It’s rough, it’s tough — and it may help you.

Tip 5: Skip fad diets and just make healthier choices Low-carb diets, the glycemic index diet or other fad diets may help you lose weight at first, but their effectiveness at preventing diabetes isn’t known nor are their long-term effects. And by excluding or strictly limiting a particular food group, you may be giving up essential nutrients. Instead, think variety and portion control as part of an overall healthy-eating plan.

Tip 3: Go for whole grains Although it’s not clear why, whole grains may reduce your risk of diabetes and help maintain blood sugar levels. Try to make at least half your grains whole grains. Many foods made from whole grains come ready to eat, including various breads, pasta products and many cereals. Look for the word “whole” on the package and among the first few items in the ingredient list.

When to see your doctor If you’re older than age 45 and your weight is normal, ask your doctor if diabetes testing is appropriate for you. The American Diabetes Association recommends blood glucose screening if: n You’re age 45 or older and overweight n You’re younger than age 45 and overweight with one or more additional risk factors for type 2 diabetes — such as a sedentary lifestyle or a family history of diabetes

Tip 4: Lose extra weight If you’re overweight, diabetes prevention may hinge on weight loss. Every pound you lose can improve your health, and you may be surprised by how much. Participants in one large study who lost a modest amount of weight — around 7 percent of initial body weight — and exercised regularly reduced the risk of developing diabetes by almost 60 percent.

Share your concerns about diabetes prevention with your doctor. He or she will applaud your efforts to keep diabetes at bay, and perhaps offer additional suggestions based on your medical history. If you have any questions the physicians at Eagles Landing Family Practice will help you answer them. The Conyers office is located in the Honey Creek area. For an appointment call today at 678-374-7514.

n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

women’s health FEATURE

What Is

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?

oxic shock syndrome, also known as TSS, is a serious condition which mainly affects menstruating women using tampons. The patient develops a high fever, diarrhea, vomiting and muscle ache. This is followed by hypotension (low blood pressure), which may eventually lead to shock and death. In some cases there may be a sunburn-like rash with skin peeling. Toxic shock syndrome may occur as a result of an injury, burn or as a complication of localized infections, such as a boil, as well as with the use of

contraceptive sponges. In a large majority of cases toxic shock syndrome occurs as a result of toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria. It may also result from toxins produced by group A Streptococcus (strep) bacteria. Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome is sometimes referred to as toxic shock-like syndrome (TSLS) or Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), toxic shock syndrome affects approximately 1 to 2 in every 100,000 women aged 15-44 every year.

Shiraz Kassam, M.D.

FRCSC, FACOG Serving Rockdale and Newton Counties FOR 34 YEARS IN THE PRACTICE OF OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

4D Ultrasounds

Special Care for Women OBSTETRICAL • Family planning and preconception counseling • Routine obstetrical management • High risk pregnancy management • In office Ultrasound and laboratory services

GYNECOLOGICAL • Well woman/routine annual prevention care Treatment of: • STDs • Pelvic Pain • Endometriosis • Infertility • Fibroids • Menopause

WE WELCOME OUR OLD PATIENTS AND ACCEPT NEW PATIENTS

• Abnormal Bleeding • Laparoscopic surgery for pain, infertility, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and sterilization • Myomectomy for fibroids • Hysterectomy for benign and malignant conditions

770-922-2424

We accept all insurance plans as well as Medicaid and Medicare We provide total obstetrical and gynecological care. (si habla español Bien benido) Office Hours : Monday - Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm • Friday : 9:00am - 1:00pm

10 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

1380 Milstead Road Suite B - Conyers, GA 30012

women’s health FEATURE

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME? • Sudden high fever (first symptom) • Vomiting • Diarrhea • Sunburn-like skin rash, particularly in the palms and soles • Redness of eyes, mouth and throat • Fainting or feeling faint • Muscle aches • Dizziness • Confusion • Hypotension (low blood pressure) • Seizures • Headaches WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR If you experience the signs and symptoms described above, especially if you are menstruating or have just finished menstruating and have been using tampons, especially super absorbent tampons, or if you have a skin or wound infection, call your doctor immediately. Explain to your doctor what your symptoms are and how long you have had them. If you do not have a physician call for an appointment with Dr Kassam. You can set up an appointment by calling his office at 770-922-2424.

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

ANSWERS

change life-limiting to life-affirming. Key Facts about Colorectal Cancer - Colorectal Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. - Early detection is key; when caught in the beginning stages, colorectal cancer is highly treatable. - Beginning at age 50, colorectal cancer screening is recommended. - People with a family history should begin screening even earlier, as recommended by their doctor. - A diet rich in vegetables, legumes and whole grains and limited in processed and red meat has been correlated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer.

DIRECT ACCESS TO SPECIALISTS

ADVANCED RESEARCH

THE LATEST TREATMENTS

Be Proactive GCS is The Cancer Answer速 and provides patient-focused care anchored by prevention, early detection, advanced treatment, clinical research and compassionate caregivers.

ROCKDALE OFFICE 1501 Milstead Road, Suite 110, Conyers, GA 30012 (770) 760-9949

GACancer.com 46 PHYSICIANS | 500 SUPPORT STAFF | 27 OFFICES STRONG

12 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

KATHLEEN LAMBERT, MD

SHERINE THOMAS, MD

general health

FEATURE

5 Simple Rules to Reduce Your Risk for

Colorectal Cancer

olorectal cancer, or cancer of the large intestine, is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. However, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also one of the most detectable cancers and it responds well to early treatment. Your risk of developing colorectal cancer is a combination of controllable and uncontrollable factors. People older than 50 and those who have a family history of colorectal, ovarian or breast cancer have a higher risk of developing the disease than others. Luckily, there are many things you can do

to reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, regular screenings and some lifestyle changes can help prevent colorectal cancer. Modern technology makes screening for the disease much easier (and less uncomfortable), but there are many other things you can do on your own to reduce your risk of developing the disease. In fact, researchers believe that eating a nutritious diet, exercising and controlling body fat could prevent nearly 45 percent of colorectal cancer cases.

Dramatically reduce your risk of getting colorectal cancer by following these five simple rules: 1. Get moving. Physical activity is a powerful weapon against colorectal cancer. In a recent study, exercise was linked to a 24-percent-decreased risk of developing the disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity, five days a week. 2. Eat healthy. Adhering to a healthy, low-fat diet with plenty of fiber and at least five servings of fruits and veggies each day can dramatically reduce your risk of developing cancer. Also, limit red and processed meats â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they are linked to an increased cancer risk. 3. Get screened. Your recovery largely depends on the stage of your cancer, which is why early detection is so important. Stage I colorectal cancer has a five-year survival rate of 74 percent. Whereas, there is only a 6 percent survival rate after five years for a Stage IV diagnosis. Beginning at age 50, schedule routine colonoscopies at least every 10 years. 4. Manage your vices. Smoking and drinking radically contribute to your risk of developing colorectal cancer. People who consume more than seven alcoholic beverages a week have a 72-percentincreased risk, whereas long-term smokers have up to a 164-percent-increased risk. 5. Keep your weight in check. Obese people (those with a BMI over 29) have a 20-percentincreased risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those of normal weight. For more information, visit northside.com. Courtesy of Northside Hospital Cancer Institute n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

Meet the Newest Members of Our

MEDICAL COMMUNITY

Thomas Lyons

Jessie Bender

Jan Soon-Yuen Tan

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Thomas Lyons to the Rockdale Medical Center family. Dr. Lyons joined Advanced Gynecology Associates in February 2015. Dr. Lyons is a 1977 graduate of the University of Colorado and completed his internship/ residency at University of Colorado. Dr. Lyons is considered a surgical pioneer and has received numerous awards for his breakthroughs in gynecologic surgery since 1980; he authored the LSH procedure, or Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy. He also developed the Laparoscopic Burch procedure for stress urinary incontinence.

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Jessie Bender to the Rockdale Medical Center family. Dr. Bender joined Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC in 2014. Dr. Bender is also certified in Da Vinci Robotic Surgery. She is a 2009 graduate of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency at The Reading Hospital and Medical Center, Reading PA.

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Jane Soon-Yuen Tan to the Rockdale Medical Center family. Dr. Tan joined Resurgens Orthopaedics in January 2015. Dr. Tan is a 2001 graduate of the University of Illinois – College of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Michigan Health Systems, Ann Arbor, MI and fellowship at the University of Utah Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT.

M.D., M.S., FACOG., Gynecology

Residency and Training University of Colorado, Denver, CO

Professional Memberships

• • •

The Reading Hospital and Medical Center Reading, PA

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine Erie, PA

University of Colorado, Denver,CO

• • • • • • •

Residency

Medical Degree

Medical Degree • • • •

D.O., OB/GYN

Southeastern Obstetrics & Gynecology Society Medical Association of Georgia American Society for Reproductive Medicine American Association of GYN LaparoscopistsAdvisory Board Gynecologic Laser and Advanced Technology Society Editorial board-Gynecologic Endoscopy Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons Gynecologic Study Group European Society for Gynaecologic Endoscopy International Society of Gynecologic Endoscopy Editorial Board-Journal American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists Australian/New Zealand Society of Gynecological Endoscopy Italian Society of Gynecologic Endoscopic Surgery Editorial Reviewer-Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation

Professional Memberships • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists-Junior Fellow • American Osteopathic Association • Sigma Sigma Phi-Honorary Osteopathic Service Fraternity

Practice Information

Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC 4181 Hospital Drive, Suite 104 & 100 Covington, GA 30014

Phone: 770-385-8954 www.cwhs-larrimore.com

MD, MS, Orthopedics

Residency and Fellowship University of Michigan Health Systems, Ann Arbor, MI University of Utah Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT (Hand Surgery Fellowship)

Medical Degree University of Illinois at Chicago – College of Medicine Rockford, IL

Professional Memberships • American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Diplomat • American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Active Fellow • American Society for Surgery of the Hand • American association for Hand Surgery • Ruth Jackson Orthopaedic Society • Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society • Michigan State Medical Society

Practice Information

Advanced Gynecology Associates

Resurgens Orthopaedics

1380 Milstead Avenue, N.E., Suite E Conyers, GA 30012

3211 Iris Drive • Covington, GA 30016

Phone: 770-787-4042

Phone: 678-609-4913

www.resurgens.com

www.thomasllyons.com

1-800-424-DOCS (3627) The Right Care. Right Here.

14 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

Emergency Room OR Urgent Care? written by Lee Udell

hen sudden illness or injury strikes, it can be frightening — especially if your regular doctor isn’t available or can’t see you on short notice. In the midst of your panic, you have to decide where to go for the medical attention you or your loved one need. At your local emergency room, you can count on long wait times and higher costs. But the good news is that there’s somewhere else you can turn, as long as your illness or injury is not life-threatening. Urgent care centers offer walk-in medical treatment for injuries or illnesses requiring immediate care, but not serious enough to require an ER visit. Additionally, most urgent care facilities offer extended hours, compared to regular doctor’s offices, so you can visit during early morning, late evening or on the weekend. WHEN TO CHOOSE URGENT CARE Urgent care centers do not treat major medical traumas or conditions, but they can provide treatment for most health issues when your primary care doctor is not available or cannot see you on short notice. Often, the wait time to be seen at an urgent care center is less than 30 minutes, compared with the possibility of waiting for hours at a hospital emergency room to be seen for illnesses or injuries that are not life-threatening. Keep in mind that many health care plans may not pay for a visit to the ER for what they consider to be “non-emergency” care. For these reasons, it can be more efficient to use urgent care services than an emergency room in terms of both money and time.

General guidelines for choosing Urgent Care or Emergency Room: • Urgent care centers can treat minor illness such as coughs, body aches, earache, sore throat, allergic reactions, urinary tract infection, lacerations, sprains, minor cuts, sutures, and suture removal. Some can also handle sports physicals and DOT physicals and Worker’s Comp visits. • A good urgent care clinic will have relationships with specialists in the community as well as hospitals, as a safety net for patients, so they can refer you if additional care is needed. • If you’re having serious symptoms and you think you need hospitalization or surgery, go to the emergency room; for example, an intense pain, which could indicate appendicitis or a kidney stone. • Always in the case of crushing chest pain, severe bleeding, trouble breathing, or signs of stroke call 9-1-1 immediately.

If you need immediate, non-emergency care, and live in Rockdale, Newton or surrounding areas, Georgia Primary & Urgent Care now has two locations: 1301 Sigman Road NE, Conyers, GA 678-609-4912 Monday–Friday 8am–7pm and Saturday 8am–Noon AND 7138 Hwy 212, Suite A, Covington, GA 678-625-4441 Monday–Friday Noon–8pm

Georgia Primary & Urgent Care

Now n e p O

Brown Bridge Medical Plaza 7138 Highway 212, Suite A Covington, GA 30016 678-625-4441 office 770-787-9521 fax Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

No Appointment Necessary Office hours: Monday – Friday: 12 Noon – 8:00PM

Our practitioners can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for the following healthcare problems and much more: Colds

Skin Rashes/Infections

Sutures

Diabetes

Sore Throats

Suture Removal

Ear Infections

Sports Physicals

Urinary Tract Infections

Hypertension

Sprains

Yeast Infections

Sinus Congestion

Strep Throat

Most Insurance Accepted No Insurance, No Problem, Self-Pay Pricing

Our Other Location 1301 Sigman Road NE, Suite 230, Conyers • 678-609-4912

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

Specializing in Gynecology & Urogynecology Surgery

Dr. Stephanie Gordon

Dr. Trent Rice

Marcia Harmon, CNM

Maria Epling, CNP

Lanie Vu, NP

Board Certified in Urogynecology-Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery Care We Provide:

Procedures We Provide:

• Well Women Health Care and Comprehensive Annual Exams • Pap Smears, Breast Exams, and In-Office Ultrasounds • Full range of Contraception Options • Menopausal Management - Traditional and Alternative • Adolescent and Pediatric Gynecology • Infertility Workups • Hormone Replacement Therapy (including pellets, injections and compounding cream) • Bladder Problems and Incontinence • Accidental Bowel Leakage or Chronic Constipation Management • Pelvic Relaxation or Prolapse Management • Treatment for Fibroids, Endometriosis, Abnormal Bleeding, and Ovarian Cyst • Osteoporosis Screening and Treatment • Screening for Sexually Transmitted Diseases

• Davinci Robotics Gynecological Surgery • Traditional Abdominal Hysterectomy, Vaginal Hysterectomy, and Laparoscopic Assisted Hysterectomy • Myomectomy for Fibroid Tumors • In-office ESSURE Tubal Ligation • Laparoscopic Surgery for Ovarian Problems, Endometriosis, Tubal and Adhesive Diseases • Hysteroscopic Surgery • Colposcopies for Abnormal Pap Smears and LEEP Procedures • Repair of Pelvic Prolaspe, Relaxation and Surgery for Bladder Leakage • In-Office Endometrial Ablation for Excessive Menstrual Bleeding • Procedures for Accidental Bowel Leakage including Interstim and Solesta Injections • In office Anesthesia provided by Board Certified Anesthesiologist

Most MAjoR MedicAl insuRAnce And MedicARe AccePted 140 Eagles Spring Court, Suite B 2750 Owens Drive, Suite A Stockbridge, GA 30281 Conyers, GA 30094

678.413.4644

770.302.0878

www.womenscenterga.com Privileges At Rockdale & Piedmont Henry Hospitals

16 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

What is a Urogynecologist? By: Stephanie Gordon, MD A urogynecologist is a surgeon who has specialized in the care of women with pelvic floor disorders. The pelvic floor is a set of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues in the lower part of the pelvis that provides support for a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internal organs, including the bowel, bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum. Pelvic floor disorders can occur when women have weakened pelvic muscles or tears in the connective tissue due to excessive strain on the pelvis due to childbirth, repeated strenuous activity, menopause, chronic disease, or pelvic surgery. Other factors that can weaken the pelvic floor include repetitive heavy lifting, tobacco use, and genetics. Dr. Stephanie Gordon is one of only 10 Board Certified Urogynecologist in the State of Georgia. She is double Board Certified in the subspecialty of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery as well as General Gynecology. With this background, she is able to take care of the Well Woman as well as to give cutting edge medicine to the patient with complicated gynecology issues. What type of problems can Dr. Gordon manage and treat? Incontinence: loss of bladder or bowel control, leaking or urine or feces. Prolapse: descent of the pelvic organs, a bulge and /or pressure; dropped uterus, bladder, vagina or rectum. Pain: discomfort to the lower back, pelvic, bladder, or urethra- including Interstitial Cystitis (IC) or painful bladder syndrome, pain with sex. Overactive Bladder: frequent need to void, bladder pressure, urgency, leaking of urine on the way to the bathroom. How can Dr. Gordon treat these problems? With conservative (non-surgical) or surgical therapy depending on your wishes, the severity of your condition, or your general health. Conservative options include medications, pelvic exercises, behavioral and diet modifications, vaginal devices (pessaries), Pelvic Floor Therapy (including InTone), and Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation. Safe and effective surgical procedures are also utilized to treat incontinence and prolapse. Dr. Gordon also provides advance gynecology care including: Well Woman Annual Exams, Contraception including hormonal and non-hormonal therapies, ESSURE tubal lig tion in office, Nexplanon, Mirena and Paraguard IUDs, traditional tubal ligation. Treatment for heavy menstrual cycles-including endometrial ablation in office (Novasure, Thermachoice, and HTA. Myomectomy (fibroid removal) and Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) â&#x20AC;&#x201C;over 95% of these can be performed vaginally or thru a laparoscope (tiny incisions on abdomen)-can be performed with the Da Vinci Robotic system with only an outpatient admission to the hospital. Menopausal Management -including natural therapy, bio-identical hormones, compounded creams, injections, pellets, and traditional hormone replacement. Pediatric and adolescent gynecology-HPV vaccines, acne, heavy/painful cycles, endometriosis, STD testing, and chronic infections. Infertility work ups and therapies. For your convenience-In office Ultrasound, Bladder testing, surgical procedures with IV anesthesia available with anesthesiologist.

For more information, visit our website at www.womenscenterga.com SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

general health

FEATURE

About Seasonal Allergies

‘‘A

h-choo!” It’s your son’s third sneezing fit of the morning, and as you hand him another tissue you wonder if these cold-like symptoms — the sneezing, congestion, and runny nose — have something to do with the recent weather change. If he gets similar symptoms at the same time every

18 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

year, you’re likely right: seasonal allergies are at work. Seasonal allergies, sometimes called “hay fever” or seasonal allergic rhinitis, are allergy symptoms that occur during certain times of the year, usually when outdoor molds release their spores, and trees, grasses, and weeds release tiny pollen particles into the air to fertilize other plants. The immune systems of people who are allergic to mold spores or pollen treat these particles (called allergens) as invaders and release chemicals, including histamine, into the bloodstream to defend against them. It’s the release of these chemicals that causes allergy symptoms. People can be allergic to one or more types of pollen or mold. The type someone is allergic to determines when symptoms occur. For example, in the mid-Atlantic states, tree pollination is February through May, grass pollen runs from May through June, and weed pollen is from August through October — so kids with these allergies are likely to have increased symptoms at those times. Mold spores tend to peak midsummer through the fall, depending on location. Even kids who have never had seasonal allergies in years past can develop them. Seasonal allergies can start at almost any time, though they usually develop by 10 years of age and reach their peak in the early twenties, with symptoms often disappearing later in adulthood.

general health

FEATURE

Signs and Symptoms If your child develops a “cold” at the same time every year, seasonal allergies might be to blame. Allergy symptoms, which usually come on suddenly and last as long as a person is exposed to a particular allergen, can include: F sneezing F itchy nose and/or throat F nasal congestion F clear, runny nose F coughing These symptoms often come with itchy, watery, and/or red eyes, which is called allergic conjunctivitis. If your child has wheezing and shortness of breath in addition to these symptoms, the allergy may have progressed into asthma. Dr. Pleasant at Pleasant Peds Care of Conyers will be happy to help you with the correct diagnosis and give you piece of mind for your children. You can reach her friendly staff today to set up an appointment at 770-648-6620.

Pleasant Peds Care of Conyers Dr. Shyronda Pleasant FAAP

“When you walk across the threshold of Pleasant Peds Care of Conyers, you will immediately know that you have found a knowledgeable, caring medical professional who listens and treats the whole child with a gentle touch.”

1415 Milstead Road, Suite C - Conyers, GA 30012

770-648-6620 www.pleasantpedscare.com

We listen and treat the whole child with knowledge and a gentle touch. SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE 19

Welcome

FIONA O. ZWALD, MD

Dermatology Consultants is pleased to announce the addition of Fiona Zwald, M.D. to our Covington team of Experts. Dr. Zwald is now performing Mohs Micrographic Surgery and seeing patients at our Covington location. Dr. Zwald is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon who previously served as full-time Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Mohs micrographic surgery at Emory University Hospital. She developed a particular interest in dermatologic conditions associated with solid organ and bone marrow transplant recipients and established a multi-disciplinary dermatology clinic onsite at the Emory Hospital Transplant Clinic, where she managed patients who had received solid organ transplants. The focus of her practice is screening and management of patients who have, or who are at risk for skin cancer. She specializes in Mohs surgery as well as advanced reconstructive techniques, melanoma excision, and routine skin surgery. Dr. Zwald is a fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery and serves on the Board of Directors. She is President of the International Transplant Skin Cancer Collaborative. With over 24 year’s experience, Dermatology Consultants is privileged to have Fiona Zwald, M.D. join our team.

DERMATOLOGICAL CARE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY Services: General • Surgical • Cosmetic Dermatology Aesthetic & Laser Treatments • Botox® & Fillers Featuring CoolSculpting® to Reduce Fat

DIONE V. MARCUS MD

Gift Cards Available Convenient Hours 7:00am -4:30pm Monday - Friday

20 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

MICHELLE L. JUNEAU MD

CHARLE’ L. CAMERON PA-C

JILL MURPHY Aesthetician

4151 Hospital Drive Covington, GA 30014 770-784-0343 dermatologyconsultants.org

WHAT IS

general health FEATURE

Mohs Micrographic Surgery? written by Lee Udell

ou’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, and your dermatologist is recommending Mohs surgery. It’s only natural to have questions, and to be nervous about any kind of surgery. But the more you know about Mohs surgery, the more you’ll appreciate this highly effective, yet minimally invasive technique that offers a 98% or better cure rate. Developed by Dr. Frederick Mohs in the 1930s, Mohs micrographic surgery has, with a few refinements, come to be embraced over the past decade by an increasing number of surgeons for an ever-widening variety of skin cancers. Today, it’s accepted as the single most effective technique for removing basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the two most common skin cancers.

WHAT IS MOHS? The procedure entails removing one thin layer of tissue at a time; as each layer is removed, its margins are studied under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells. If the margins are cancer-free, the surgery is ended. If not, another layer of tissue is removed from the margin where the cancer cells were found, and the procedure is repeated until all the margins of the final tissue sample examined are clear of cancer. The result? Mohs surgery eliminates the guesswork in skin cancer removal, allowing your Mohs surgeon to remove all of the cancer cells while sparing as much normal tissue as possible. This means you get not only the best therapeutic results, but also the best cosmetic results, as well.

WHY MOHS? If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, you’re not alone. It’s expected that more than two million Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year — and about one in five people will develop a skin cancer in their lifetimes. Each year, the number of cases is increasing, at near epidemic rates. The other bad news is that most skin cancers occur on the face, and removal can be disfiguring.

Since its development, Mohs has been refined to use specialized tissue stains, advanced microscopy, and enhanced repair techniques. Newer versions of the surgery allow use in a greater range of body sites — not just faces. The result is a very rapid increase of its use for all sorts of skin cancers — including melanomas, for which Mohs was rarely chosen in the past.

WHAT TO EXPECT Mohs surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis using a local anesthetic and typically takes no more than four hours. You’ll spend a lot of this time waiting, as the surgeon microscopically examines each layer of tissue removed. A book can help you pass the time, and you’ll be allowed to use the restroom or even grab a snack, if you want. The process of removing and examining tissue continues until the last tissue sample removed is cancer free. After the procedure, you and your surgeon will decide whether to let the wound heal on its own, use stitches to close it, use a skin flap from an adjacent area to cover the wound, or apply a skin graft. At your follow-up appointment, your doctor will make sure your wound is healing correctly, and then probably recommend that you have regular exams once or twice a year — or more often for aggressive cancers.

If you suspect skin cancer, or if you have skin damage from the sun, schedule an appointment to see a dermatologist who can evaluate any suspicious moles and perform Mohs surgery, if needed. The physicians at Dermatology Consultants in Covington are skilled in treating a wide spectrum of skin conditions, from acne, rosacea and vitiligo to life-threatening melanoma and other cancers. Call 770-784-0343 today to schedule your appointment.

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

general health

FEATURE

Colon Cancer Screening SAVES LIVES!

nyone can get colorectal cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States when men and women are considered separately, and the second leading cause when both sexes are combined. Here’s the good news: colon cancer is one of the most highly treatable and preventable cancers. When detected in its early stages, colon cancer is 90% curable. A colonoscopy is considered the single best method for detecting colon cancer in its early stages. Screening colonoscopies are recommended for every adult beginning at age 50, and for African Americans, at age 45. For those with a family history of colon cancer, or other risk factors, screening could start at a younger age. For example, if one of your parents was diagnosed

with the disease at 55, then you should get screened at 45 — 10 years before the age of their diagnosis. During the procedure, a trained gastroenterologist will check for any signs of cancer and remove existing polyps that may turn into cancer over time. Since a colonoscopy is performed under light sedation, most patients have little if any discomfort, and the procedure itself usually takes less than 30 minutes. While there is evidence that more people are getting screened than in previous years, only about half of those ages 50 or older are getting this life-saving test. What are you waiting for? Take charge of your health. Talk to your physician about scheduling a screening colonoscopy.

The physicians at Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates see patients at 34 locations across metro Atlanta, including an office in Conyers and Lithonia and an accredited endoscopy center in Lithonia. To make an appointment, call 1.866.GO.TO.AGA [468.6242], or visit www.atlantagastro.com.

If you’re 50 or older or have a family history of colon cancer, a preventive screening is just what the doctor ordered. In fact, when detected in its early stages, colon cancer is one of the most highly treatable and preventable cancers. Drinking the colon prep isn’t as bad as you’ve heard, and the procedure itself can take less than 30 minutes.

Raise a glass to screening! It could save your life. Let our experienced physicians help you stay healthy.

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month. Conyers 1501 Milstead Road Suite 160 678.745.3033

Lithonia 5403 Hillandale Park Court Suite B 770.817.0224

www.atlantagastro.com • 1.866.GO.TO.AGA AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

22 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

Sleep APNEA

general health

FEATURE

written by Lee Udell noring may seem comical, but anyone who’s suffered The result? Both snorer and partner rise each morning — knowingly or unknowingly — from obstructive feeling unrefreshed. And it doesn’t take long for both sleep apnea can tell you it’s no joke. Sleep apnea is partners to report excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty a dangerous sleep-robbing and life-threatening condition concentrating, and even personality changes. common to men and women in their 40s and 50s that’s now But don’t lose hope of getting a good night’s sleep for linked to close to 38,000 cardiovascular deaths a year. the rest of your married life. Treatment for obstructive sleep Sleep apnea can increase your risk of high blood pressure apnea may include: and diabetes — and even make you more dangerous on • Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight. the road. And just ask any spouse of a sleep apnea sufferer, • Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or a similar and you’ll learn that the condition can have far-reaching machine to help you breathe. implications for a marriage. • Oral breathing devices or other devices (such as nasal “Spouses will spend more time in bed together than dilators) that you wear at night. anywhere else during their marriage, but when sleep • Medicine to help you stay awake during the day. problems develop, a good night’s sleep is often hard to • Surgery, but this is a last resort after lifestyle changes come by for both bed partners,” says Steven Lamm, M.D., and CPAP. a Manhattan internist and medical correspondent for ABC’s The View. Heavy snoring can signal other health problems, but If you suspect you’re losing sleep each night from apnea often the most likely culprit is sleep apnea. Partners will — or if your spouse complains about your snoring — see also notice a regular pattern of pauses in snoring, usually a doctor who specializes in sleep medicine. Learn more followed by a snort or gasp, and then resumed breathing. about sleep medicine and take the sleep apnea test at www.waltonpulmonary.com/sleep_medicine.html. After that, the snoring begins again, and the cycle repeats Or call Walton Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine at — sometimes as often as 50 times each hour, depending on severity of the condition. 678-928-9700 today for an appointment.

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Dr. Michel Jeannot is Board Certified in Sleep Medicine and Pulmonary Disease.

Services:

+ Pulmonary (Lung) Consultation + Sleep Disorder Evaluation with Sleep Center + Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program + Allergy Test (Skin Test) + Sleep Apnea Maintenance (CPAP set-up) + Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea + Trilogy Ventilation We provide everything you need for all your respiratory concerns

2390 Wall Street, Conyers Open Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

678-928-9700 or 866-562-1866

Call Us to Set Up an Appointment • www.waltonpulmonary.com

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

Make Morning Workouts Work For You!

general health

FEATURE

Many men and women struggle to find time to exercise. If hectic schedules dominated by professional and personal commitments have made it difficult to make exercise part of your daily routine, you might want to consider skipping the snooze button so you can work out in the early morning hours.

24 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

arly morning workouts have their ups and downs. Glucose levels in the body tend to be low in the morning, when many people wake up with a relatively empty stomach. Low blood glucose levels can cause feelings of nausea and weakness and possibly make you feel faint. In addition, since you likely aren’t moving much while you’re asleep, your joints and muscles are likely less mobile early in the morning than they are in the evening, which can make morning workouts difficult and, if you don’t allow yourself more time to warm up, put your body at greater risk of injury. But morning workouts also can energize you throughout the day, and many people find it easier to consistently exercise in the early mornings than at night, when distractions or long days at the office can affect your motivation to workout. Early morning exercise routines can be difficult to adjust to, but there are some ways to make the adjustment to such regimens go more smoothly.

F Make sleep a priority. Prioritizing sleep makes it easier to get out of bed in the morning, when you will face the daily temptation to hit the snooze button and roll over. But if you aren’t sleep deprived, you will find it easier to skip the snooze phase of your morning routine and get right out of bed. Skip the late night talk shows and call it a night earlier, making sure you get between seven and eight hours of sleep each night. Once you establish a new sleep schedule, you will find it easier and easier to get up and hit the gym in the morning. F Designate more time to warm up. Early morning workout routines require athletes to warm up more than they would when exercising at other times of the day. As previously noted, your body is perhaps at its least mobile right when you get out of bed, so set aside more time to warm up when you workout in the mornings. Five to 10 minutes of light cardiovascular exercise before you begin your workout can be enough to increase your body temperature and loosen your body up so it’s ready for exercise. F Don’t go it alone. The buddy system is effective for many people regardless of when they exercise, but it can be especially beneficial for men and women who want to start working out in the

morning. If someone is waiting for you at the gym or if your significant other is up and ready to go, you’re far less likely to skip a morning workout than you would be if you are going it alone. F Eat at your own discretion. Some people simply cannot eat before a workout, while others find working out on an empty stomach makes them faint and weak. The problem many people who work out in the early morning encounter with regard to eating before their workouts is they simply don’t have the time to eat and afford their body enough time to turn that meal or snack into fuel that will benefit their workout. A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that eating a meal 45 minutes before a moderate-intensity workout enhances exercise capability. But morning exercise enthusiasts typically find they do not have that spare 45 minutes to wait around while their bodies absorb a meal. Eating healthy before exercise, and giving your body adequate time to absorb that meal, can definitely fuel your workout. But if that 45 minutes ultimately compromises your ability to workout, you may want to have a glass of orange juice or a drink that contains carbohydrates so your body has some fuel as you exercise.

Many adults find that mornings are the only times they can consistently exercise. Adjusting to such a routine can be difficult, but there are some ways to make that adjustment easier.

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

Not a week goes by without someone extolling the virtues of Mediterranean cuisine and its central ingredient, olive oil. But considering that there are approximately 2,000 varieties on the market, making a choice among the rows of bottles on grocery store shelves can be daunting. Here are a few pointers about olive oil so you can get the best value for price. First of all, a little lesson: the olive is a fruit, of which there are more than 500 varieties around the world. Almost all the olives we eat and use are produced by six countries in the Mediterranean basin.

You can give the nod to red wine and dark chocolate

Let’s start with the positive effects of red wine in preventing heart disease. Resveratrol is the ingredient in red wine we should all be thankful for. This is one of the most powerful antioxidants around, as it reduces the amount of saturated fat in the arteries. This same antioxidant is also a powerful cancer-fighting agent. Red wine has other advantages as well: it’s good for slowing down the skin’s aging process and preventing acne. Moderate consumption of this delicious nectar is also good for bone health. It helps us live longer, while protecting us against dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

are antioxidants that are also present in red wine. Dark chocolate containing at least 70 per cent cacao also improves blood circulation. So, next time you’re drinking a glass of red wine, be sure to drink a toast to the scientific studies that have turned our guilty pleasures into healthy habits. Cheers!

WHAT WILL IT BE USED FOR? All olive oils can be used cold, while only some are suitable for cooking. As olive oil loses its flavour when it reaches temperatures of over 70°C, you’re better off keeping your best, most expensive olive oil for your salad dressings or to dribble over your favourite recipes when serving them. Lastly, olive oil keeps for about 18 months to two years, so you should look for a bottle that has an expiry date printed on the label. Store your extra virgin olive oil at room temperature in an opaque bottle, away from the light.

If consumed in moderation, red wine and dark chocolate can improve heart health. PHOTO: THOMAS NORTHCUT / THINKSTOCK

Foodies love giving in to the temptations of fine red wine and the best dark chocolate. And more and more studies are giving them a good reason to do so, particularly because of their health benefits for the heart. Of course, the key word here is moderation, meaning a glass of red wine and just a few pieces of dark chocolate per day.

VIRGIN OR EXTRA VIRGIN? Extra virgin olive oil is a premium oil with a flawless taste. Its acidity has to be less than 0.80 per cent, and its refined taste and fruity ar oma distinguish it from other olive oils. Virgin olive oil is a lower-quality product. The term “light” refers to the taste of the oil rather than its fat content, as all olive oils are 100-per cent fat.

As for dark chocolate, our stomach bacteria turn it into compounds that reduce inflammation in cardiovascular tissue and reduce the risk of stroke. Furthermore, it’s a great source of flavonoids, which

PHOTO: MARTIN POOLE / THINKSTOCK

PHOTOS: STOCKBYTE / JUPITERIMAGES / EISING / MEDIOIMAGES / PHOTODISC / THINKSTOCK

Living food is healthy food Living food, or raw food, is a popular topic of conversation these days. In fact, you might call it a nutrition movement. Do you like the idea of only eating living foods?

26 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

For many people, eating living foods is more than just a diet; it’s a lifestyle. Its proponents only eat raw, unprocessed foods that may be germinated or fermented. It is usually a vegan diet, which means that it doesn’t include any animal products. Raw or dried fruits, sprout juices, seaweed, raw or sprouted nuts and seeds, sprouted bread and sprouted pulses are all part of the daily diet of living food fans. Advantages. You never feel hungry with this diet, as it is rich in dietary fibre and plant proteins Including living foods in your daily diet is a good idea.

and low in fat. In addition, people who choose to eat only living foods usually lose weight. Disadvantages. Eating only living foods can become monotonous. This type of diet also limits choices in restaurants or when travelling; living food fans often end up taking their own food along with them. A living food diet can also cause certain nutritional deficiencies. THE RIGHT BALANCE? Including living foods in your daily diet is always a good idea, as cooking destroys some of the vitamins and minerals in many foods and reduces their anti-carcinogenic potential. However, you should also consider eating cooked foods, which add variety to your diet while meeting all your nutritional needs. All in all, eating a little of everything, in moderation, is definitely the best way to go.

PHOTO: STOCKBYTE / THINKSTOCK

Which olive oil is the right one for you?

Comprehensive Care,

general health

FEATURE

Close to Home

iedmont Physicians are conveniently located P throughout Henry County to serve the community. Our primary care physicians are dedicated to delivering

the highest quality healthcare that’s also convenient for you with same day appointments available. We specialize in: • Well Visits • Annual Exams • Sick Visits • Sports Physicals • Vaccinations and Immunizations • Kids, Teens and Adults welcome McDonough — Jim W. Latimer, M.D. earned his medical degree from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville and completed his family practice residency training at the McLennan County Medical Education and Research Foundation in Texas. He takes great pleasure in building a rapport with patients, and believes that healing is facilitated by showing genuine interest and compassion to his patients. Locust Grove — Dr. Charmille Hare received her undergraduate degree from Morris Brown College in Atlanta and then went on to graduate from the

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. As a family physician, she enjoys caring for patients of all ages and believes in collaborating with the patient to help them reach their best health and to prevent disease. Stockbridge — Omotayo Akinmade, M.D. received his medical degree from the University of Lagos, Nigeria and completed his post graduate training and residency at the State University of New York Health Science Center, Department of Family Medicine. His focus includes preventive medicine and the treatment of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Dr Akinmade believes that his patients are vital parts of the healthcare team and emphasizes the patient-centered model in which the patient-provider relationship is critical for success.

When it comes to enhancing your overall health, getting better starts here. EXPERT HEART CARE. SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS. At Piedmont Heart of Rockdale we’re pleased to offer same day appointments. You can see a Piedmont Heart physician when it fits your schedule. It’s the expert cardiac care and answers you need – so you can get on the road to feeling better.

To schedule an appointment, call 770.483.9330

Piedmont Heart at Rockdale 1301 Sigman Road, NE • Suite 200 Conyers, Georgia 30012

John Hennecken, M.D. Cardiology

Atul Trivedi, M.D. Interventional Cardiology

Syed Shirazi, M.D. Cardiology

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

770.788.6534 • www.Georgia-Ortho.com 28 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

general health

FEATURE

Organized Sports Should Be Fun, Not High Stress

s spring days grow warmer and longer, outdoor activity increases for our children. This usually means it’s also time for more organized sports programs. Baseball, softball, soccer, track, rugby, lacrosse, or swim team are but some of the opportunities for kids to be active and have a good time. One unfortunate side effect is that organized athletic activities can sometimes lose their focus on teaching children a sport and letting them enjoy the experience. Instead, kids can find themselves facing pressure and more stress as winning becomes over-emphasized. Professional sports clearly have an excessive emphasis on winning. This isn’t surprising considering the million dollar salaries in many sports and the need to deliver a winning team to paying fans. The problem arises when that same emphasis is passed on to kids who really should be out developing or honing their skills and having lots of fun. Parents, often without realizing it, can also add pressure on their child to perform well and to be a “winner.” It’s not only out of control parents fighting or abusing coaches and officials. Some parents, with the best of intentions, may be placing such a high value on athletic achievement that their child may feel like a failure unless he or she is winning and making Mom and Dad proud.

If you find that your family’s life revolves around your children’s sports activities, and that winning or losing plays a major role in how you react to your child, you may be contributing to your child’s stress. When you’re getting upset or angry because your child’s team loses, or tease your child for not winning, or find yourself pushing your child to train harder and not be “lazy,” you may very well be causing problems without even realizing it. We all want our children to do well but that doesn’t mean, especially in terms of sports, that they have to win all the time. When you communicate that to your children, even subtly or unintentionally, you’re putting them under pressure that no young person needs. If you suspect that an over-emphasis on sports, or on winning, might be affecting your family, talk to your school counselor or an outside professional counselor who can offer suggestions for getting sports into their proper perspective.

Athletics should be a positive, enjoyable activity for our children, not a situation where stress is a constant and winning is everything. www.counseling.org

from the American Counseling Association

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

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

678-609-4913 An Affiltate of Rockdale Medical Center

WELCOME!

DR. THOMAS L. LYONS PIONEER IN GYNECOLOGIC SURGERY

Providing care for problems including: • Endometriosis • 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. Lynos directly at cwcrs@mindspring.com For Further information on Dr. Lyons, please visit his web-site, www.thomasllyons.com

At ADVANCED GYNECOLOGY ASSOCIATES Holly Imlach, MD Gynecology & Gynecologic Surgery

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

678-609-4913

30 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

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

Erin Mayfield, DO Gynecology

5154 Cook Street Northeast, Covington

770-788-1778

women’s health FEATURE

What is Endometriosis? Thomas Lyons, MD and Cheryl Kimball

What Causes It and What Does It Do to My Body?

or women with endometriosis, the answer to “what is it?” is simple: Endometriosis is what’s keeping you from living your life to the fullest. Because endometriosis causes pain, as well as other symptoms, this problem keeps some women in bed for several days each month. Other women have chronic low-level pain that just hangs on day after day with little relief. And some have menstrual flow so heavy that they can’t stray too far from a bathroom and a supply of feminine products. You can’t plan a weekend away because you just don’t know if you will be up for the trip. Since your teenage years, you were the family “sick kid.” No reunion, family picnic, or holiday gathering went by without you either feeling too ill to attend or ending up curled up in your aunt’s bedroom unable to participate

in the fun. Endometriosis impacts a woman’s ability to develop a relationship or to maintain an intimate relationship. Sex is often painful. And to top it off, endometriosis often compromises fertility, making it difficult to conceive. Does this sound familiar? Despite the fact that endometriosis affects approximately six million women in the United States alone, very few people understand the disease or how much it can change a woman’s life. Other people can’t see anything wrong with you, which makes it hard for them to figure out why you miss work unexpectedly several days a month. Or why you simply don’t feel like going to the mall or the movies. Not everyone can understand that just chatting over a cup of coffee seems like too much to deal with for someone in pain. e

If these problems sound like yours, this book will show you how to seize the day and develop a whole new attitude. After years of practice and helping women with endometriosis, I know that you and your doctors can turn the tide, so that endometriosis does not control you, you control it.

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

general health

FEATURE

Getting Your Mental Health Back In Shape

oday, most of us are more aware of our physical health than ever before. We exercise more, pay attention to our diets and get needed health checks in order to catch problems early. But, most of us don’t think about our mental health very much unless we happen to be facing a serious problem. In truth, however, just as it’s possible to improve our physical health, there are also ways to get our feelings and attitudes into better shape. And in today’s complicated and often stressful world, that’s a very good thing. So, where to begin? How about your daily schedule? Most of us tend to fill our days with work, family and social obligations, leaving little or no time for ourselves. A fix for that is to include “you” in your daily calendar. Create a real schedule that includes time each day for at least one thing you find relaxing or enjoyable. Maybe it’s reading a book, working at a hobby, or just taking a quiet walk. Whatever it is, just plan it and make sure it happens. Another way to reduce stress and feel better about yourself is to get involved with others. Wherever you live, you’ll find community, civic and religious organizations searching for volunteers to help carry out their work. Giving something back to the community offers a sense of fulfillment and self-worth essential for good mental health. It can also offer a meaningful escape from your own problems and may help put such problems in a better perspective. And yes, exercise and staying physically fit is another means to improving mental health. Studies find regular exercise is a great way to fight depression, for example. Plus, as we get ourselves into better shape, we usually start to feel more confident about ourselves - everything from how we look to what we can do. And that’s good mental health. No, you can’t make stress and problems just disappear, but building a little relaxation into your life, helping those in need and staying physically active can all improve mental health and make it easier to cope with any problems that arise. Don’t accept that you have to feel unhappy or depressed. If your own actions don’t have you feeling better, check out the help that a professional counselor can offer. However you go about it, good mental health is a goal worth achieving. www.counseling.org 32 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

IBS

{Irritable Bowel Syndrome} written by Lee Udell

s many as 1 in 5 American adults has signs and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but fewer than 1 in 5 seek medical help. The symptoms can vary widely from person to person, and sometimes they can be somewhat vague. So it’s easy to ignore the symptoms for a while and assume you may just have “a touch of something” that will go away in time. IBS is a common disorder that affects the large intestine (colon) and symptoms can include: D Abdominal pain or cramping D A bloated feeling D Gas D Diarrhea or constipation — sometimes alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea D Mucus in the stool For most people IBS is a chronic condition, though there may be times when symptoms are worse or when they improve or even disappear completely. So, it’s easy to see why you might dismiss your symptoms. The good news is that IBS doesn’t cause changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of colorectal cancer.

general health

FEATURE

However, it’s important to see your doctor if you have a persistent change in bowel habits or if you have any other signs or symptoms of IBS, because these could also indicate a more serious condition, such as colon cancer. And the sooner you visit your doctor, the sooner you can rule out other colon conditions and begin to find ways to relieve your IBS symptoms. If you’re diagnosed with IBS learn all you can about the condition, so you and your doctor can work together to find out what may be triggering your symptoms. Your doctor can help you make diet and lifestyle changes that will help you deal with your symptoms, while still carrying on with your normal daily activities. It’s important to work closely with your doctor and keep a record of your diet and activities so you and your doctor can see patterns of symptoms. Also try to get enough exercise, drink plenty of fluids and get enough sleep — and if you smoke, quit. If you think stress triggers your symptoms, talk with your doctor about ways you can reduce stress and its effects on your IBS. The physicians at East Atlanta Gastroenterology have been advancing digestive health since 1981 and have over 70 years of combined experience in digestive diseases. If you’re experiencing symptoms of IBS, call 770-922-0505 today to schedule an appointment at either their Conyers or Covington office.

SPECIALIZING IN DIGESTIVE DISEASES & NUTRITION

BOARD CERTIFIED PHYSICIANS

NOW OFFERING Monitored Anesthesia Care for Your Endoscopy

Fred A. Levin

MD, FACP, FACG

Karen L. Weiss-Schorr MD

• Colorectal Cancer Screening and Prevention • Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) • Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders • Non-Invasive Hemorrhoid Therapy • Pancreatic and Billiary Disorders • Inflammatory Bowel Disease • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Video Capsule Endoscopy • IV Infusion Therapy • Chronic Constipation • Liver Disease

1269 Wellbrook Circle Conyers, GA

7229 Wheat Street Covington, GA

1000 Cowles Clinic Way Cypress Building, Suite C-300 Greensboro, GA

A. Steven McIntosh David N. Socoloff MD, FACG

Razvi Razack MD

770-922-0505

EASTATLANTAGASTRO.COM

SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

34 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

Sun Safety: Save Your Skin written by Lee Udell

aking great care of patients is what the Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center staff, led by Dr. John Fountain, Dr. Darryl Hodson, Dr. Allen Filstein, and Caroline Wells, PA-C most love to do. Georgia Dermatology’s providers and staff are very experienced and handle each patient’s condition with skill and professionalism. Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of skin disorders including: skin cancer diagnosis, skin cancer removal, Mohs skin cancer surgery, skin exams, mole removal and treatment of psoriasis, eczema, acne, rashes, warts and other skin irritations. With summer time quickly approaching, most people like to be outdoors. The benefits come with a dangerous tradeoff. Each year more than 3.5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the US. Whenever you’re outdoors, be smart about it. EVERYDAY STEPS TO SUN SAFETY: Seek the shade, especially between 10am and 4pm, when the sun’s rays are usually strongest. Do not burn. It only takes one sunburn to increase your risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer; suffering five or more sunburns doubles your lifetime risk. Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths. A tan is never safe, whether you acquire it on the beach or in a salon. New sunlamps used in tanning salons emit UVR doses as much as 12 times that of the sun. Occasional indoor tanning bed use almost triples your chances of developing melanoma. In general, it is far safer to obtain vitamin D through D-rich foods and/or dietary supplements. Cover up with clothing, broad-brimmed hat & UV blocking sunglasses. Clothing can be your most effective form of sun protection, particularly bright or dark colored fabrics. Hats with a brim of 3” or greater offer significant protection from the sun for the face. Sunglasses block 99-100% of the sun’s UV rays shielding your eyes and the surrounding skin from skin cancer. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, daily. If used correctly, SPF 15 sunscreen would prevent sunburn 15

general health

FEATURE

times longer than if the product weren’t used. However, a high SPF alone is not enough. SPF measures protection against UVB, but not against the sun’s deeply penetrating UVA rays, causing as much or even more damage. Always use SPF products with “broad spectrum” protection. Use sunscreen every day, yearround, in every kind of weather. g Sunlight reflects off snow, ice, sand and water, intensifying UVR effects by up to 80%. g Overcast days; 70-80% of UVR travel through clouds. g At high altitudes (mountains), the thinner atmosphere filters out less UVR. EXAMINE YOUR SKIN HEAD-TO-TOE ONCE EVERY MONTH: g Start with your head and face. g Check hands (including nails), elbows, arms, underarms, torso and trunk. g Use a hand mirror and a full sized mirror to check your back, the back of your neck, and other hard-to-see places. g Check legs and feet, including soles, heels, toes, and nails. Look for skin changes of any kind. A spot or sore that continues to itch, hurt, crust, scab, erode or bleed or a sore that does not heal within two weeks could be signs of melanoma. How to check: g Asymmetry g Border is irregular g Color changes or appears pearly, translucent, tan, brown, black or multicolored g Diameter is bigger than 6mm (size of a pencil eraser) g Evolves or changes in any way (change in texture, size, or thickness; appears after age 21)

See your dermatologist once a year for a professional skin exam. Regular total-body checkups are the best way to make sure your skin is healthy and stays that way. Call us today at (770) 785-SKIN (7546) visit us online at GaDerm.com for your annual skin exam. SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

women’s health FEATURE

Gestational Diabetes

written by Lee Udell

f you’re expecting, this condition can create complications and make delivering a healthy baby more difficult. But, even if you’ve had gestational diabetes in an earlier pregnancy, you don’t have to resign yourself to wrestling with this diagnosis throughout another pregnancy. You may be able to lower your chance of getting gestational diabetes by starting at a healthy weight and not exceeding your doctor’s recommended weight gain during pregnancy. Regular exercise also works like insulin to help keep your blood sugar level within a target range. Gestational diabetes, characterized by high blood sugar (glucose) levels, occurs in about 4% of all pregnancies. It’s usually diagnosed with a simple oral glucose tolerance test, between the 24th and 28th weeks. If you’re at increased risk, you may be tested before your 13th week. You may be at greater risk of developing gestational diabetes if you’ve had it previously, if you’re overweight, if you’re from a high-risk ethnic group, if you have a family history of diabetes, or if you already have impaired glucose tolerance. If you’re at risk, it may be impossible to avoid the diagnosis during pregnancy, but anyone can take steps to try to avoid gestational diabetes or to minimize the impact. The more healthy habits you can

adopt before your pregnancy, the better. F EAT HEALTHY FOODS. Choose foods high in fiber and low in fat and calories. Focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Strive for variety to help you achieve your goals without compromising taste or nutrition. Watch portion sizes. Focus on permanent changes to your eating habits. F KEEP ACTIVE. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. Take a brisk walk. Ride your bike. Swim laps. If you can’t squeeze in a single 30-minute workout, try several shorter sessions. Park in the distant lot when you run errands. Get off the bus one stop before your destination. Every step you take increases your chances of staying healthy. F LOSE EXCESS POUNDS BEFORE PREGNANCY. Doctors don’t recommend weight loss during pregnancy. But if you’re planning to get pregnant, losing extra weight beforehand may help you have a healthier pregnancy. Plus you’ll enjoy the long-term benefits of shedding excess pounds. F AVOID CERTAIN MEDICATIONS. If you’ve had gestational diabetes, avoid medicines that increase insulin resistance, such as nicotinic acid and glucocorticoid medicines (for example, prednisone and dexamethasone). If you’re expecting, or if you’re planning a pregnancy, work with your doctor to set goals for a healthy pregnancy. The physicians at New Beginnings Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare in Conyers provide a supportive, nurturing and welcoming environment, while promoting health awareness and education. For an appointment, call 678-413-0858.

New VisioNs...New HorizoNs...

• Adult & Adolescent Gynecology • Normal & High Risk Obsterical Care • Contraceptive Management

New Beginnings For all your women’s healthcare needs!

• Management of Fibroids • Robotic Laparoscopic Surgery • Gynecological Surgery • Disorders of the Cervix • Family Planning • Ultrasound • In-Office Essure Tubal Ligation and Endometrial Ablation • Infertility • Menopause Management • Hysterosonogram

day Call Us To le To Schedu ! Your V isit

Veronica Garrett M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

1415 Milstead Road, Suite A • Conyers, GA 30012

678-413-0858 ~ Se habla espanol

naomi Harris M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

sHannon mayfield

Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare at It’s Best!

we accept most major health plans ~ call today for an appointment! 36 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

C.N.M.

general health

FEATURE

HRT...Not Just For Women written by Lee Udell

If you thought hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was for women only, you need to think again. Research has shown that men, also, can benefit from HRT as they age.

ow levels of testosterone have been associated with metabolic syndrome — a cluster of factors such as abnormal cholesterol and high blood pressure that boost risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. What’s more, many men experience fatigue, foggy thinking, depression, decreased libido, and an inability to gain muscle mass or lose weight. Men typically begin a gradual drop in hormone production around age 30 and lose approximately one to two percent a year until sometime between 40 and 55 years of age. At this point, testosterone levels fall sharply and signify the beginning of andropause, the male version of menopause. It’s estimated that 1 in 4 men past the age of 30 has low testosterone levels, making this one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in men. One of the most successful treatments for low T is called SottoPelle® Therapy. This pellet therapy incorporates many features that other HRT methods lack — even other pellet therapies. Precision pellet insertion, accurate pellet dosing, and meticulous hormone compounding ensure reliable, consistent and safe dosage of testosterone. The physician places low-dose pellet implants, about the size of a

Tic Tac®, under the skin in the hip area. Blood flow over the pellets begins to release just the right amount testosterone into the blood stream. This allows the pellets to easily maintain consistent blood levels. Unlike other hormone replacement methods, release of more testosterone into the blood stream takes place whenever needed. This happens, for instance, during exercise or periods of stress. The ability to accurately dose and achieve and maintain proper blood levels is what sets SottoPelle apart from other types of HRT. It’s also the reason this unique HRT works so well for so many men. Other advantages of SottoPelle Therapy include: 1) Appropriate testing and proper analysis 2) The use of high-quality bio-identical pellets 3) Employing a web-based application for consistently accurate dosing 4) Following a specialized pellet insertion procedure Thanks to SottoPelle Therapy, men no longer need to accept the symptoms of andropause as a “part of aging” that can negatively impact your health, your ability to perform at work, your relationships with friends and family, and — most importantly — how you enjoy your life. HRT can help you get your hormones — and your whole life — back in balance. Want more information about SottoPelle? Dr. Veronica Garrett in Conyers is specially trained to administer SollePelle Therapy and can be reached at 678-413-0858.

Exclusively being provided by Veronica Garrett M.D. 1415 Milstead Road N.E., Suite B Conyers, GA 30012 Call Today (770) 918-1619 SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

Tinnitus v Anxiety v Stress v Insomnia v Lowered Immune System v Health Problems v Tinnitus Dr. Donald Cote Dr. Arthur Torsiglieri Dr. Adam French Donna McGough, F-AAA Kristyn Meade, F-AAA Susann Shriver, CCC-A 11370 Wellbrook Circle, Conyers, Georgia, 770-922-5458

4181 Hospital Drive, NE, Suite 102, Covington, Georgia, 770-385-0321

Call today for an appointment!

WWW.ENTSPECIALISTS.NET

38 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

Get to the Root of Tinnitus k

general health

FEATURE

written by Lee Udell

It’s the unwanted companion that goes everywhere you go. While you’re eating breakfast, walking, driving, typing, sitting in that meeting. Ringing, high-pitched noises and other ambient sounds that seem to be emanating from deep within the ear are often signs of tinnitus, which is generally a symptom of some other medical condition.

ne in five people are affected by tinnitus, according to the Mayo Clinic. It may result from age-generated hearing loss, an ear injury, exposure to loud noises, or even a circulatory system disorder. Though not life threatening, tinnitus can severely affect the quality of life for the person experiencing it. Understanding what causes tinnitus and the ways to cope with it can provide some measure of relief. CAUSES OF TINNITUS There are several different factors that can contribute to the onset of tinnitus, though in some cases the actual cause is never identified. S Earwax blockage: Earwax is a natural defense against dirt and bacteria. It is formed to trap these particles and naturally eject them from the ear. Over time an abundance of earwax may form and accumulate, making it hard for it to go away naturally. This may cause pain, hearing loss and irritation of the eardrum. Any one of these factors also may lead to tinnitus. S Hearing loss: As people age, some measure of hearing loss may take place. Age-related hearing loss, called presbycusis, also may cause tinnitus. S Ear bone changes: All bones in the body are subject to stiffening or arthritic-like conditions, including inner ear bones. Stiffening of middle ear bones may affect hearing and cause tinnitus. This is a condition that usually runs in families. S Unprotected exposure to loud noises: Those who have attended a concert or a fireworks display may have walked away afterward with a temporary ringing in the ears. Frequent exposure to loud noises without the use of earplugs or special noise-blocking headsets may cause permanent damage. Even listening to portable music devices may cause tinnitus if played loudly for extended periods of time. S Other causes: Everything from head and neck

injuries, depression, stress, Meniere’s disease, and benign tumors forming in the cranial nerve or elsewhere may lead to tinnitus. SYMPTOMS Many people think tinnitus only constitutes a highpitched ringing in the ears. Actually, tinnitus can take the form of ringing, pulsing, a heartbeat sound, buzzing, hissing, roaring, or even clicking. Any noise in the ear(s) constitutes tinnitus. In many cases tinnitus is something only the person suffering can hear, called subjective tinnitus. In some cases a doctor performing an examination may be able to hear the tinnitus also, called objective tinnitus. This is rare and generally the result of blood vessel problems or an inner ear bone condition. TREATMENT OPTIONS Tinnitus is often more of a nuisance than a serious health condition. However, prolonged ringing or noise in the ear may affect concentration and sleeping patterns, which can lead to other health problems. Doctors may be able to diagnose the source of the tinnitus and treat the underlying condition, such as earwax removal, thus reducing the tinnitus. When a source cannot be found, a doctor may recommend a noise suppression device. These white noise generators can distract from the internal noise in the ear. Changes in medication or use of certain antidepressants or anxiety medications may also reduce the severity of symptoms. However, these may be accompanied by additional side effects. If tinnitus is overly bothersome or is accompanied by dizziness or pain, consult a doctor’s office, such as Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists at 770-385-0321 for an appointment today. They can help you get to the bottom of your tinnitus and find away to regain your quality of life.

If tinnitus is overly bothersome or is accompanied by dizziness or pain, consult a doctor’s office, such as Ear Nose and Throat Specialists at 770-385-0321. They can help you get to the bottom of your tinnitus and find away to regain your quality of life. SPRING 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

“Postal Customer”

Our ER is an accredited Chest Pain Center Providing a higher level of expertise for treating heart attack symptoms.

40 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SPRING 2015

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