Healthy in Rockdale Summer 2014

Back to School

IMMUNIZATIONS Coping with COPD Urogynecologic Surgery

Benefits of

Regular Checkups

SUMMER 2014

eastside internal medicine, llc Board certified, american Board of internal medicine • Hypertension/Diabetes/High Cholesterol • Women’s Wellness

Most su In rance Accepted!

Walk-Ins Welcome!

• Pap Smear • Drug Screens • Physicals, Sports & DOT Physicals • Worker’s Comp Injuries • Asthma/Emphysema • Thyroid • Depression • Men’s Health • Erectile Dysfunction • STD Treatment • Minor Surgery • Heart Failure

On-Site Lab & X-Ray! Doctor on Call 24/7!

Serving Rockdale & Newton Area Over 16 Years!

WALK-INS WELCOME • 678-625-7800

Features in Focus SUMMER 2014

Summer Is among us Syed Wasim MD, MPH

Farhana Quasem MD

Masood Siddiquee MD, MRCP (U.K.)

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm • Saturday 8:00am - 12:00 noon most insUrance accePted

2080 Eastside Drive • Conyers, Georgia

Importance of Brain Super Foods

Page 6

Benefits of Regular Checkups

Page 9

Urogynecologic Surgery

Page 16

eastside internal medicine, llc Board certified, american Board of internal medicine • Hypertension/Diabetes/High Cholesterol • Women’s Wellness

Most su In rance Accepted!

Walk-Ins Welcome!

• Pap Smear • Drug Screens • Physicals, Sports & DOT Physicals • Worker’s Comp Injuries • Asthma/Emphysema • Thyroid • Depression • Men’s Health • Erectile Dysfunction • STD Treatment • Minor Surgery • Heart Failure

On-Site Lab & X-Ray! Doctor on Call 24/7!

Serving Rockdale & Newton Area Over 16 Years!

WALK-INS WELCOME • 678-625-7800

Features in Focus SUMMER 2014

Summer Is among us Syed Wasim MD, MPH

Farhana Quasem MD

Masood Siddiquee MD, MRCP (U.K.)

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm • Saturday 8:00am - 12:00 noon most insUrance accePted

2080 Eastside Drive • Conyers, Georgia

Importance of Brain Super Foods

Page 6

Benefits of Regular Checkups

Page 9

Urogynecologic Surgery

Page 16

ISSUE GUIDE SUMMER 2014 T. Pat Cavanaugh Publisher Michelle Kim Editor Debbie Thompson Comptroller Annette Godwin Sales Director carin Deboer Graphics Manager/Layout Design

General Health

women’s Health 11

High-risk prenatal care

16 Urogynecologic surgery 27 What every woman should know

about GYN cancer

Amanda Ellington Circulation Supervisor

6 Importance of brain super foods 9 Regular health checkups 10 What is COPD? 12 How to take care of your child's skin this summer 15 Medical conditions that affect your hearing health 18 Back to school immunizations 22 Encourage handwashing 23 Ways to manage stress 28 Hair removal 30 Rockdale Medical Center awarded laboratory accreditation

from The Joint Commission

32 Mercy Heart Clinic 33 Is the day gone already?

34 Bowel movements are more than just the waste product of digestion

37 Rockdale Medical Center is well equipped 38 Types of, diagnosis & treatments of foot pain

LEE UDELL Reporter

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 selfaddressed 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.

the News Serving Rockdale County and Conyers

ISSUE GUIDE SUMMER 2014 T. Pat Cavanaugh Publisher Michelle Kim Editor Debbie Thompson Comptroller Annette Godwin Sales Director carin Deboer Graphics Manager/Layout Design

General Health

women’s Health 11

High-risk prenatal care

16 Urogynecologic surgery 27 What every woman should know

about GYN cancer

Amanda Ellington Circulation Supervisor

6 Importance of brain super foods 9 Regular health checkups 10 What is COPD? 12 How to take care of your child's skin this summer 15 Medical conditions that affect your hearing health 18 Back to school immunizations 22 Encourage handwashing 23 Ways to manage stress 28 Hair removal 30 Rockdale Medical Center awarded laboratory accreditation

from The Joint Commission

32 Mercy Heart Clinic 33 Is the day gone already?

34 Bowel movements are more than just the waste product of digestion

37 Rockdale Medical Center is well equipped 38 Types of, diagnosis & treatments of foot pain

LEE UDELL Reporter

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 selfaddressed 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.

the News Serving Rockdale County and Conyers

•general health FEATURE

importance of

BRAIN Super

By Lee Udell, Reporter

Foods

I

n a fast-paced world, mental sharpness and focus are key. Unfortunately, the average American diet falls short when it comes to supporting good brain health.

You may be getting all the calories but few of the nutrients your brain is craving.

Generally, experts look for four characteristics in foods that promote brain health: • Omega-3s • Antioxidants • Anti-inflammation • Blood circulation Fortunately, it’s fairly simple to get all the nutrient-rich foods you need to keep your synapses firing on all cylinders – and many of them can be part of your home garden. Growing your own not only yields a ready, delicious supply of these important foods, but also gives you the opportunity to incorporate more healthful, natural practices that increase nutritional values, while reducing your intake of harmful chemicals.

If you’re interested in boosting your mental acuity, these “Top 10 Super Brain Foods” are what you should be growing in your garden or putting in your grocery cart:

1. Blueberries. Steven Pratt, M.D., author of Rx: Fourteen Foods Proven to Change Your Life, calls them “brainberries,” because these tasty fruits are loaded with antioxidants. Add at least 1 cup of blueberries a day to your diet in any form – fresh, frozen or freezedried. Other berries, including strawberries and cranberries, also contain antioxidants to help reduce inflammation in brain cells, fighting the effects of age-related dementia and Alzheimer’s, while also improving learning capacity and motor skills.

2. Oily fish, such as salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel. These contain high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, which play an important role in strengthening brain function and memory. Oily fish contains the most effective of these – EPA and DHA – in a ready-made form that’s easy for the body to use. They’re good for not just brain health, but also for the heart, joints and general well-being, because they possess anti-inflammatory properties, as well.

3. Nuts and seeds. Nuts have been linked to a decreased risk of many diseases, and there’s evidence they also improve cognition. Both nuts and seeds contain high levels of vitamin E, which research shows prevents cognitive decline, especially in the elderly. Any kind will do – hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, peanuts, almonds, flax seed, sesame seeds – even unhydrogenated nut butters such as peanut or almond butter. Some nuts, like walnuts, even possess other benefits, such as improving mood and reducing insomnia.

4. Beans. One of the most under-appreciated brain foods, beans, provide a stable source of glucose, which the brain depends on for fuel. Any beans will do, including lentils, black beans, pintos, kidney beans, black-eyed peas and garbanzo, to name a few. It’s easy to fit

at least half a cup of beans into your diet daily, because they’re cheap, convenient and versatile – and just about everybody likes some kind of beans.

5. Freshly brewed tea. Green tea contains the antioxidant EGCG, known to boost the production of neural progenitor cells, which can adapt into various types of cells just like stem cells. In studies, EGCG has been shown to enhance learning and memory. What’s more, 2-3 cups per day of any kind of freshly brewed tea can boost brain power by enhancing memory, focus and mood, thanks to the effects of caffeine. Tea also has potent antioxidants, especially the class known as catechines, which promote healthy blood flow.

6. Leafy greens, cruciferous and other vegetables. Research has shown that vegetables, especially leafy green ones, have protective effects on the brain. Cruciferous vegetables, most notably broccoli, are a great source of vitamin K and choline, which prevent arterial calcification in the brain and aid in retrieving stored memories. Tomatoes contain lycopene, which helps protect against the kind of free radical damage to cells that occurs in the development of dementia. And sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants.

7. Healthy oils like extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil. The Mediterranean’s secret to longevity, virgin olive oil is packed with polyphenols, which protect the heart and blood vessels from inflammation and may also possess unique neuroprotective properties. Coconut oil has even been investigated as a replacement for caprylidene, a medication used to treat Alzheimer’s.

8. Whole grains. These are another excellent source of glucose for brain fuel. Your ability to concentrate and focus depends on an adequate, steady supply of energy to the brain, and whole grains provide this. They release glucose slowly into the bloodstream throughout the day, so you stay mentally alert. In addition to whole-grain breads, you can choose brown cereals, oatmeal, whole-grain pastas and wheat germ.

9. Spices. A whole array of spices, like cinnamon, nutmeg, rosemary, sage, ginger and turmeric, are rich in their own unique compounds that may have multiple cognitive benefits.

In studies, spices have been shown to contain so many different compounds that they have many possible beneficial modes of action, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive and gluco-regulatory.

10. Dark chocolate and coffee. We saved the best for last. Coffee and chocolate contain caffeine, which studies have shown may improve memory and brain function. In addition, dark chocolate contains potent antioxidants called flavanols, which protect brain cells and improve brain metabolism and blood flow. Dark chocolate is best is moderation, however, so half to 1 ounce a day should do the trick. 

Top 10 Super Foods MILK – Milk is rich in vitamin B6, vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium and potassium – all of which are necessary for improving memory and cognitive functions.

SPINACH – Spinach is also very high in magnesium (39.1% DV) and potassium (24% DV) content which maintains the electrical conductivity of brain that affects the higher brain function like memory and learning.

ACORN SQUASH – Acorn squash reportedly helps prevent spikes in blood sugar and even cancer.

POTATO – Potato is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium and manganese – all of which are beneficial to brain health.

BROCCOLI – Broccoli has been found to protect the brain following injury.

WHEAT GERM – Wheat germ and most whole grains are rich in B-complex vitamins that promote brain health by protecting nerve tissue against oxidation.

MANGO – Mango is rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6 and vitamins K, A and E. Fruits like mangoes and banana are high in vitamin B6 content and are therefore good for brain health.

HONEY – Honey is made up of equal parts of glucose and fructose and it contains a variety of B-vitamins, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and anti-oxidants – all of which are good for brain health.

SALMON – Pink salmon is a fatty fish high in omega-3 fatty acids or more specifically high in DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) content. – all of which are good for the heart.

6

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

7

•general health FEATURE

importance of

BRAIN Super

By Lee Udell, Reporter

Foods

I

n a fast-paced world, mental sharpness and focus are key. Unfortunately, the average American diet falls short when it comes to supporting good brain health.

You may be getting all the calories but few of the nutrients your brain is craving.

Generally, experts look for four characteristics in foods that promote brain health: • Omega-3s • Antioxidants • Anti-inflammation • Blood circulation Fortunately, it’s fairly simple to get all the nutrient-rich foods you need to keep your synapses firing on all cylinders – and many of them can be part of your home garden. Growing your own not only yields a ready, delicious supply of these important foods, but also gives you the opportunity to incorporate more healthful, natural practices that increase nutritional values, while reducing your intake of harmful chemicals.

If you’re interested in boosting your mental acuity, these “Top 10 Super Brain Foods” are what you should be growing in your garden or putting in your grocery cart:

1. Blueberries. Steven Pratt, M.D., author of Rx: Fourteen Foods Proven to Change Your Life, calls them “brainberries,” because these tasty fruits are loaded with antioxidants. Add at least 1 cup of blueberries a day to your diet in any form – fresh, frozen or freezedried. Other berries, including strawberries and cranberries, also contain antioxidants to help reduce inflammation in brain cells, fighting the effects of age-related dementia and Alzheimer’s, while also improving learning capacity and motor skills.

2. Oily fish, such as salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel. These contain high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, which play an important role in strengthening brain function and memory. Oily fish contains the most effective of these – EPA and DHA – in a ready-made form that’s easy for the body to use. They’re good for not just brain health, but also for the heart, joints and general well-being, because they possess anti-inflammatory properties, as well.

3. Nuts and seeds. Nuts have been linked to a decreased risk of many diseases, and there’s evidence they also improve cognition. Both nuts and seeds contain high levels of vitamin E, which research shows prevents cognitive decline, especially in the elderly. Any kind will do – hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, peanuts, almonds, flax seed, sesame seeds – even unhydrogenated nut butters such as peanut or almond butter. Some nuts, like walnuts, even possess other benefits, such as improving mood and reducing insomnia.

4. Beans. One of the most under-appreciated brain foods, beans, provide a stable source of glucose, which the brain depends on for fuel. Any beans will do, including lentils, black beans, pintos, kidney beans, black-eyed peas and garbanzo, to name a few. It’s easy to fit

at least half a cup of beans into your diet daily, because they’re cheap, convenient and versatile – and just about everybody likes some kind of beans.

5. Freshly brewed tea. Green tea contains the antioxidant EGCG, known to boost the production of neural progenitor cells, which can adapt into various types of cells just like stem cells. In studies, EGCG has been shown to enhance learning and memory. What’s more, 2-3 cups per day of any kind of freshly brewed tea can boost brain power by enhancing memory, focus and mood, thanks to the effects of caffeine. Tea also has potent antioxidants, especially the class known as catechines, which promote healthy blood flow.

6. Leafy greens, cruciferous and other vegetables. Research has shown that vegetables, especially leafy green ones, have protective effects on the brain. Cruciferous vegetables, most notably broccoli, are a great source of vitamin K and choline, which prevent arterial calcification in the brain and aid in retrieving stored memories. Tomatoes contain lycopene, which helps protect against the kind of free radical damage to cells that occurs in the development of dementia. And sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants.

7. Healthy oils like extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil. The Mediterranean’s secret to longevity, virgin olive oil is packed with polyphenols, which protect the heart and blood vessels from inflammation and may also possess unique neuroprotective properties. Coconut oil has even been investigated as a replacement for caprylidene, a medication used to treat Alzheimer’s.

8. Whole grains. These are another excellent source of glucose for brain fuel. Your ability to concentrate and focus depends on an adequate, steady supply of energy to the brain, and whole grains provide this. They release glucose slowly into the bloodstream throughout the day, so you stay mentally alert. In addition to whole-grain breads, you can choose brown cereals, oatmeal, whole-grain pastas and wheat germ.

9. Spices. A whole array of spices, like cinnamon, nutmeg, rosemary, sage, ginger and turmeric, are rich in their own unique compounds that may have multiple cognitive benefits.

In studies, spices have been shown to contain so many different compounds that they have many possible beneficial modes of action, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive and gluco-regulatory.

10. Dark chocolate and coffee. We saved the best for last. Coffee and chocolate contain caffeine, which studies have shown may improve memory and brain function. In addition, dark chocolate contains potent antioxidants called flavanols, which protect brain cells and improve brain metabolism and blood flow. Dark chocolate is best is moderation, however, so half to 1 ounce a day should do the trick. 

Top 10 Super Foods MILK – Milk is rich in vitamin B6, vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium and potassium – all of which are necessary for improving memory and cognitive functions.

SPINACH – Spinach is also very high in magnesium (39.1% DV) and potassium (24% DV) content which maintains the electrical conductivity of brain that affects the higher brain function like memory and learning.

ACORN SQUASH – Acorn squash reportedly helps prevent spikes in blood sugar and even cancer.

POTATO – Potato is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium and manganese – all of which are beneficial to brain health.

BROCCOLI – Broccoli has been found to protect the brain following injury.

WHEAT GERM – Wheat germ and most whole grains are rich in B-complex vitamins that promote brain health by protecting nerve tissue against oxidation.

MANGO – Mango is rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6 and vitamins K, A and E. Fruits like mangoes and banana are high in vitamin B6 content and are therefore good for brain health.

HONEY – Honey is made up of equal parts of glucose and fructose and it contains a variety of B-vitamins, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and anti-oxidants – all of which are good for brain health.

SALMON – Pink salmon is a fatty fish high in omega-3 fatty acids or more specifically high in DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) content. – all of which are good for the heart.

6

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

7

general health FEATURE•

Regular Health CHECKUPS A

n apple a day may have been the key to keeping the doctor away, but with ‘prevention being better than cure’ in today’s world, a regular check up should be first among your list of ‘things to do.’

Staying healthy isn't just about diet and exercise. Preventative medicine experts recommend a few more steps to keep in tip-top shape. A health check together with a medical history can be used by your doctor to assess your general health and well-being. Health checks should not be reserved for when you are feeling unwell. It's important to have checkups as often as your doctor suggests, even if you feel fine.

Many serious health problems do not have symptoms, and are only found during an exam by your doctor. For example, high blood pressure - which leads to heart attack and stroke – is known as a "silent killer" because most people don't have symptoms.

Preventable causes of death, such as tobacco smoking, poor diet and physical inactivity, and misuse of alcohol have been estimated to be responsible for 900,000 deaths annually.

Benefits of regular checkups include • They help you build a relationship with your doctor. You may be more likely to seek medical care when you're sick if you have a doctor you know well. Some people feel uncomfortable if they have to seek care from a "stranger."

• Diseases like diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis and heart diseases are better treated when diagnosed at an early stage.

• People who see their doctor regularly are more likely to take steps to improve or maintain their health.

Screening tests are one of the key pieces of the preventive health puzzle. They can often help detect disease before it advances further and causes damage. And, some diseases can even be prevented if certain risk factors are found during the screening.

Even businesses and health plans are realizing the benefit of preventing employees from becoming ill: It saves money in the long run. While chronic conditions require costly treatment and often cause an extreme loss of productivity to the national work force, there is an opportunity to save in the long run with preventive medicine. Such an approach aims to treat conditions before they become chronic problems, saving time and money for patients.

Begin the journey to better health today. The physicians at Eagles Landing will help you make a plan for a healthier future. Call today. The friendly staff will set up an appointment for you and your family.

678-374-7514. 

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

9

general health FEATURE•

Regular Health CHECKUPS A

n apple a day may have been the key to keeping the doctor away, but with ‘prevention being better than cure’ in today’s world, a regular check up should be first among your list of ‘things to do.’

Staying healthy isn't just about diet and exercise. Preventative medicine experts recommend a few more steps to keep in tip-top shape. A health check together with a medical history can be used by your doctor to assess your general health and well-being. Health checks should not be reserved for when you are feeling unwell. It's important to have checkups as often as your doctor suggests, even if you feel fine.

Many serious health problems do not have symptoms, and are only found during an exam by your doctor. For example, high blood pressure - which leads to heart attack and stroke – is known as a "silent killer" because most people don't have symptoms.

Preventable causes of death, such as tobacco smoking, poor diet and physical inactivity, and misuse of alcohol have been estimated to be responsible for 900,000 deaths annually.

Benefits of regular checkups include • They help you build a relationship with your doctor. You may be more likely to seek medical care when you're sick if you have a doctor you know well. Some people feel uncomfortable if they have to seek care from a "stranger."

• Diseases like diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis and heart diseases are better treated when diagnosed at an early stage.

• People who see their doctor regularly are more likely to take steps to improve or maintain their health.

Screening tests are one of the key pieces of the preventive health puzzle. They can often help detect disease before it advances further and causes damage. And, some diseases can even be prevented if certain risk factors are found during the screening.

Even businesses and health plans are realizing the benefit of preventing employees from becoming ill: It saves money in the long run. While chronic conditions require costly treatment and often cause an extreme loss of productivity to the national work force, there is an opportunity to save in the long run with preventive medicine. Such an approach aims to treat conditions before they become chronic problems, saving time and money for patients.

Begin the journey to better health today. The physicians at Eagles Landing will help you make a plan for a healthier future. Call today. The friendly staff will set up an appointment for you and your family.

678-374-7514. 

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

9

•general health FEATURE

what is?

COPD

women's health FEATURE•

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

C

hronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a serious illness that affects 16 million Americans – and the number is growing. If you’ve been diagnosed with COPD, you know it can have far-reaching effects on your life. But coping with COPD doesn’t have to mean you can’t live your life to the fullest. Advanced medications and treatments are available that can improve your breathing and fitness, and early detection can dramatically slow down the progression of your COPD. COPD is actually two different diseases: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. In emphysema, the delicate air sacs in the lungs become damaged and lose their elasticity. Pushing air out of the lungs is difficult, and stale air is trapped in the lungs, so less fresh air is allowed in. With chronic bronchitis, the mucus membrane in the lungs’ bronchial passages becomes inflamed, narrowing or closing off the lungs’ airways.

COPD is almost always caused by smoking, but can also be the result of exposure to chemical fumes, dust, air pollution or secondhand smoke. Symptoms of COPD usually appear between the ages of 50 and 70.

Both forms of COPD cause difficulty breathing and shortness of breath, especially on exertion, as well as chronic coughing which often produces mucus. As COPD worsens, it can become difficult to do even simple tasks, like getting dressed or cooking.

Early detection of COPD can make a big difference in your prognosis, so it’s important

High-Risk

By Lee Udell, Reporter

to see your healthcare provider if you’re at risk for COPD and have any of these symptoms. Your doctor will do a physical exam, listen to your lungs and ask about your medical history. You’ll probably have an x-ray, some blood tests, and a mucus culture, as well as perform some breathing tests to give your physician an accurate assessment of lung function.

If your doctor diagnoses COPD, treatment will begin with smoking cessation. In addition your doctor may prescribe inhaled or oral medicines, as well as lung rehab, which might include breathing treatments, exercise and education. Depending on the severity of your disease, you may also require oxygen.

Even though you're facing a serious lung disease, knowing that you have it means you can start taking action. That puts you ahead of another 12 million Americans who don't yet know they may have COPD. See a doctor who specializes in pulmonary medicine, like Dr. Michel Jeannot, a board-certified pulmonologist at Walton Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine. Dr. Jeannot, known for his dedication to patients and his passion for medicine, will make you feel comfortable from your first visit, so call his office today to schedule your appointment at 866-562-1866 or 678928-9700. 

Prenatal Care

By Lee Udell, Reporter

Question: At my recent doctor visit, my ob-gyn told me that she considers my pregnancy to be “high risk.” I’m really worried, and all this is stressing me out – a lot! What does this mean for me – and my baby?

Answer: First of all, take a deep breath! Most “high-risk” pregnancies turn out to be problem-free, and, odds are, you’ll give birth to a happy, healthy baby. “High risk” simply means that you and your baby may need special monitoring or care, due to a pre-existing condition or one that develops during your pregnancy.

Risk factors can include: • your age – are you under 18 or over 35?

• underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart or kidney disease, STDs, or autoimmune

disease • lifestyle choices – do you smoke, drink alcohol or use illegal drugs?

• being overweight or underweight • pregnancy history including a prior C-section, lowbirth weight baby, preterm birth, miscarriage or other complication • pregnancy concerns including severe morning sickness, being pregnant with multiples, preterm labor or placenta previa (a placenta that’s lying unusually low in the uterus) At your next appointment, ask your doctor to explain to you what specific factors make your pregnancy “high risk” and whether you should see a specialist or if you need special tests, like an ultrasound or amniocentesis.

If you do not have a gynecologist contact Radiant Women’s Health. Dr. Birt will answer your questions and

ROCKDALE LOCATION COMING SOON! Our Commitment is to Improve the Quality of Life for Every Patient

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

Services Coming to Your Area: -Sleep Center -Full body Pulmonary Function Testing -Cardio Pulmonary Rehabiliation -Sleep Apnea Treatment (CPAP Set-Up)

1403 Manchester Drive NE Conyers, GA 30012 phone: 770-860-0123 email: info@radiantwomenshealth.com

Coming to the Wall Street, Conyers in October 2014

www.radiantwomenshealth.com facebook.com/radiantwomenshealth

Open Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

678-928-9700 or 866-562-1866 Call Us to Set Up an Appointment

www.waltonpulmonary.com

set your mind at ease.

Follow some simple steps to ensure you’re in the best health possible. Eat well, get plenty of rest, exercise (get your doctor’s OK first), take your prenatal vitamins and any other medications your doctor prescribes and follow doctor’s orders for screenings and appointments. And relax! With today’s medical advancements and good prenatal care, there’s every reason to feel confident that you’ll have a healthy pregnancy and delivery – and a healthy baby! 

•general health FEATURE

what is?

COPD

women's health FEATURE•

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

C

hronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a serious illness that affects 16 million Americans – and the number is growing. If you’ve been diagnosed with COPD, you know it can have far-reaching effects on your life. But coping with COPD doesn’t have to mean you can’t live your life to the fullest. Advanced medications and treatments are available that can improve your breathing and fitness, and early detection can dramatically slow down the progression of your COPD. COPD is actually two different diseases: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. In emphysema, the delicate air sacs in the lungs become damaged and lose their elasticity. Pushing air out of the lungs is difficult, and stale air is trapped in the lungs, so less fresh air is allowed in. With chronic bronchitis, the mucus membrane in the lungs’ bronchial passages becomes inflamed, narrowing or closing off the lungs’ airways.

COPD is almost always caused by smoking, but can also be the result of exposure to chemical fumes, dust, air pollution or secondhand smoke. Symptoms of COPD usually appear between the ages of 50 and 70.

Both forms of COPD cause difficulty breathing and shortness of breath, especially on exertion, as well as chronic coughing which often produces mucus. As COPD worsens, it can become difficult to do even simple tasks, like getting dressed or cooking.

Early detection of COPD can make a big difference in your prognosis, so it’s important

High-Risk

By Lee Udell, Reporter

to see your healthcare provider if you’re at risk for COPD and have any of these symptoms. Your doctor will do a physical exam, listen to your lungs and ask about your medical history. You’ll probably have an x-ray, some blood tests, and a mucus culture, as well as perform some breathing tests to give your physician an accurate assessment of lung function.

If your doctor diagnoses COPD, treatment will begin with smoking cessation. In addition your doctor may prescribe inhaled or oral medicines, as well as lung rehab, which might include breathing treatments, exercise and education. Depending on the severity of your disease, you may also require oxygen.

Even though you're facing a serious lung disease, knowing that you have it means you can start taking action. That puts you ahead of another 12 million Americans who don't yet know they may have COPD. See a doctor who specializes in pulmonary medicine, like Dr. Michel Jeannot, a board-certified pulmonologist at Walton Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine. Dr. Jeannot, known for his dedication to patients and his passion for medicine, will make you feel comfortable from your first visit, so call his office today to schedule your appointment at 866-562-1866 or 678928-9700. 

Prenatal Care

By Lee Udell, Reporter

Question: At my recent doctor visit, my ob-gyn told me that she considers my pregnancy to be “high risk.” I’m really worried, and all this is stressing me out – a lot! What does this mean for me – and my baby?

Answer: First of all, take a deep breath! Most “high-risk” pregnancies turn out to be problem-free, and, odds are, you’ll give birth to a happy, healthy baby. “High risk” simply means that you and your baby may need special monitoring or care, due to a pre-existing condition or one that develops during your pregnancy.

Risk factors can include: • your age – are you under 18 or over 35?

• underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart or kidney disease, STDs, or autoimmune

disease • lifestyle choices – do you smoke, drink alcohol or use illegal drugs?

• being overweight or underweight • pregnancy history including a prior C-section, lowbirth weight baby, preterm birth, miscarriage or other complication • pregnancy concerns including severe morning sickness, being pregnant with multiples, preterm labor or placenta previa (a placenta that’s lying unusually low in the uterus) At your next appointment, ask your doctor to explain to you what specific factors make your pregnancy “high risk” and whether you should see a specialist or if you need special tests, like an ultrasound or amniocentesis.

If you do not have a gynecologist contact Radiant Women’s Health. Dr. Birt will answer your questions and

ROCKDALE LOCATION COMING SOON! Our Commitment is to Improve the Quality of Life for Every Patient

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

Services Coming to Your Area: -Sleep Center -Full body Pulmonary Function Testing -Cardio Pulmonary Rehabiliation -Sleep Apnea Treatment (CPAP Set-Up)

1403 Manchester Drive NE Conyers, GA 30012 phone: 770-860-0123 email: info@radiantwomenshealth.com

Coming to the Wall Street, Conyers in October 2014

www.radiantwomenshealth.com facebook.com/radiantwomenshealth

Open Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

678-928-9700 or 866-562-1866 Call Us to Set Up an Appointment

www.waltonpulmonary.com

set your mind at ease.

Follow some simple steps to ensure you’re in the best health possible. Eat well, get plenty of rest, exercise (get your doctor’s OK first), take your prenatal vitamins and any other medications your doctor prescribes and follow doctor’s orders for screenings and appointments. And relax! With today’s medical advancements and good prenatal care, there’s every reason to feel confident that you’ll have a healthy pregnancy and delivery – and a healthy baby! 

•general health FEATURE

How to take care of your

scheduled from 5 p.m. onwards, when the temperature lets up a little bit and the sun has also started setting.

This simple rule plays a major part when it comes to protecting your child’s skin this summer.

Don’t forget that sunscreen Sunscreen has long been the open secret to protecting skin in summers. Be it adults or children, sunscreen is the magic word when it comes to summer. Since children’s skin composition is different and more delicate than us, it would be more advisable if you did a patch test with the sunscreen on a small part of your child’s skin to check for any allergic reactions. For children under 6 years of age, zinc oxide sunscreens are approved by FDA. Take care to see that the sunscreen you choose for your children comes with a high SPF value and that it guarantees protection against UVA and UVB rays, if possible. Also, if your children are going to spend a majority of their day outdoors, remember to keep re-applying the sunscreen every 2-3 hours and every 30-45 minutes for infants.

The best bet would be to use milder soap made from natural ingredients and containing oils of olive, coconut and palm. Remember to avoid using antibacterial soap on your children’s skin, instead you could neem leaves to their bathing water, neem is an excellent natural bacteria

this summer!

I

t's summer and a walk down to the local store makes you feel like a burnt chicken on two legs. You have rivulets of sweat running down your body robbing it of precious moisture, and while you are searching for water to drink, you can not only feel but also watch helplessly as your skin begins to gravitate towards darker shades of brown and black. And this is just a warm welcome to the beginning of a hot and sunny Indian summer!

Just imagine, if the unrelenting summer sun can cause so many problems to your skin, what havoc it

12

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

would wreak on your child’s skin. Children have a very delicate skin as compared to us adults and are more vulnerable to the harsh atmosphere presented by summers.

A normal healthy skin of an adult has a pH of 5.5, while newborn babies have a pH of 7; teenagers who undergo hormonal changes also experience fluctuations in their skin's pH! How do I protect my child’s skin this summer?

Children have a soft and supple skin as compared to adults. The harsh rays of the sun and the hot weather outside can cause severe harm to their skin in the long run as well as the short run as exposure to the sun for a prolonged period since a young age is known to lead to skin cancer in children. Following are a few simple

tips which will help you protect your little one’s skin this summer: It's common knowledge that the summer season brings forth an unforgiving sun with hot temperatures and dangerous UV rays. The hot temperatures which lurk outdoors during late mornings and early afternoons in the summer season rob your child’s skin of its precious moisture, making it appear dry and parched. Plus playing outdoors during the daytime in summer results in excessive sweating, dehydration, sun burns, sunstroke and fatigue. Excessive sweating can even lead to sweat being trapped between the clothes and the skin, leading to a prickly heat rash on your child’s skin.

To avoid all of this, adhere to the 10-4 rule, wherein your kids are not allowed outdoors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the summer season. Play time can be

“

Clothing We come to the most potent method of protecting your child’s skin this summer. The best way to protect your little one’s skin is to ensure that it remains well covered from the sun. Choose cotton garments for your children when they have to be outdoors for a long period of time in summers, also remember to choose

dark hues of red, blue and green as these colors do not absorb sunlight as much as white or black color. While at the topic of clothing, also ensure that your child wears broad- brimmed hats to protect their face, lips, ears and neck from the harsh sun.

Now that you know of the simple ways and means of protecting your child’s skin this summer, we are sure that your child is going to have a wonderful summer with sunny memories. 

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.

“

child’s skin

killer and won’t affect your child’s skins Ph.

Pleasant Peds Care of Conyers 1415 Milstead Road, Suite C ~ Conyers, GA 30012 770-648-6620 ~ www.pleasantpedscare.com

Dr. Shyronda Pleasant, MD

“We listen and treat the whole child with knowledge and a gentle touch.”

•general health FEATURE

How to take care of your

scheduled from 5 p.m. onwards, when the temperature lets up a little bit and the sun has also started setting.

This simple rule plays a major part when it comes to protecting your child’s skin this summer.

Don’t forget that sunscreen Sunscreen has long been the open secret to protecting skin in summers. Be it adults or children, sunscreen is the magic word when it comes to summer. Since children’s skin composition is different and more delicate than us, it would be more advisable if you did a patch test with the sunscreen on a small part of your child’s skin to check for any allergic reactions. For children under 6 years of age, zinc oxide sunscreens are approved by FDA. Take care to see that the sunscreen you choose for your children comes with a high SPF value and that it guarantees protection against UVA and UVB rays, if possible. Also, if your children are going to spend a majority of their day outdoors, remember to keep re-applying the sunscreen every 2-3 hours and every 30-45 minutes for infants.

The best bet would be to use milder soap made from natural ingredients and containing oils of olive, coconut and palm. Remember to avoid using antibacterial soap on your children’s skin, instead you could neem leaves to their bathing water, neem is an excellent natural bacteria

this summer!

I

t's summer and a walk down to the local store makes you feel like a burnt chicken on two legs. You have rivulets of sweat running down your body robbing it of precious moisture, and while you are searching for water to drink, you can not only feel but also watch helplessly as your skin begins to gravitate towards darker shades of brown and black. And this is just a warm welcome to the beginning of a hot and sunny Indian summer!

Just imagine, if the unrelenting summer sun can cause so many problems to your skin, what havoc it

12

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

would wreak on your child’s skin. Children have a very delicate skin as compared to us adults and are more vulnerable to the harsh atmosphere presented by summers.

A normal healthy skin of an adult has a pH of 5.5, while newborn babies have a pH of 7; teenagers who undergo hormonal changes also experience fluctuations in their skin's pH! How do I protect my child’s skin this summer?

Children have a soft and supple skin as compared to adults. The harsh rays of the sun and the hot weather outside can cause severe harm to their skin in the long run as well as the short run as exposure to the sun for a prolonged period since a young age is known to lead to skin cancer in children. Following are a few simple

tips which will help you protect your little one’s skin this summer: It's common knowledge that the summer season brings forth an unforgiving sun with hot temperatures and dangerous UV rays. The hot temperatures which lurk outdoors during late mornings and early afternoons in the summer season rob your child’s skin of its precious moisture, making it appear dry and parched. Plus playing outdoors during the daytime in summer results in excessive sweating, dehydration, sun burns, sunstroke and fatigue. Excessive sweating can even lead to sweat being trapped between the clothes and the skin, leading to a prickly heat rash on your child’s skin.

To avoid all of this, adhere to the 10-4 rule, wherein your kids are not allowed outdoors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the summer season. Play time can be

“

Clothing We come to the most potent method of protecting your child’s skin this summer. The best way to protect your little one’s skin is to ensure that it remains well covered from the sun. Choose cotton garments for your children when they have to be outdoors for a long period of time in summers, also remember to choose

dark hues of red, blue and green as these colors do not absorb sunlight as much as white or black color. While at the topic of clothing, also ensure that your child wears broad- brimmed hats to protect their face, lips, ears and neck from the harsh sun.

Now that you know of the simple ways and means of protecting your child’s skin this summer, we are sure that your child is going to have a wonderful summer with sunny memories. 

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.

“

child’s skin

killer and won’t affect your child’s skins Ph.

Pleasant Peds Care of Conyers 1415 Milstead Road, Suite C ~ Conyers, GA 30012 770-648-6620 ~ www.pleasantpedscare.com

Dr. Shyronda Pleasant, MD

“We listen and treat the whole child with knowledge and a gentle touch.”

How’s Your Hearing?

Have you noticed more difficulty understanding family and friends?

Does everyone just seem to be mumbling? Are you asking people to repeat themselves often? Are you having to turn the TV volume up?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may need to check your hearing…

Did You Know?

www.entspecialists.net Dr. Arthur Torsiglier • Dr. Donald Cote Dr. Adam French • Donna McGough, F-AAA Kristyn Meade, F-AAA • Susann Shriver, CCC-A

• Untreated hearing loss is associated with isolation, depression, memory problems, loss of income and marital problems • Amplification leads to a better quality of life, according to a 1999 study by the National Council on Aging.

• At least 29 million Americans have a hearing impairment; 20%

in adults ages 48-59; over 50% in adults over 75.

• Patients with diabetes are more than twice as likely to have hearing loss.

• Exposure to noise is the leading cause of tinnitus, and almost always accompanies hearing loss.

1370 Wellbrook Circle, Conyers, Georgia / 770-922-5458 4181 Hospital Drive, NE, Suite 102, Covington, Georgia / 770-385-0321 Call today for an appointment!

Medical Conditions that affect

{

your hearing health

M

{

If you experience difficulty hearing, now is the time to schedule your appointment with one of our high qualified, certified Audiologists.

general health FEATURE•

any medical conditions, such as those listed below, can affect your hearing health. Treatment of these and other hearing losses can often lead to improved or restored hearing.

If left undiagnosed and untreated, some conditions can lead to irreversible hearing impairment or deafness. If you suspect that you or your loved one has a problem with their hearing, ensure optimal hearing healthcare by seeking a medical diagnosis from a physician.

Otitis Media The most common cause of hearing loss in children is otitis media, the medical term for a middle ear infection or inflammation of the middle ear. This condition can occur in one or both ears and primarily affects children due to the shape of the young Eustachian tube (and is the most frequent diagnosis for children visiting a physician). When left undiagnosed and untreated, otitis media can lead to infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear, a ruptured ear drum, and hearing loss. If treated appropriately, hearing loss related to otitis media can be alleviated.

Tinnitus Tinnitus is the medical name indicating "ringing in the ears," which includes noises ranging from loud roaring to clicking, humming or buzzing. Most tinnitus comes from damage to the microscopic endings of the hearing nerve in the inner ear. The health of these nerve endings is important for acute hearing, and injury to them brings on hearing loss and often tinnitus. Hearing nerve impairment and tinnitus can also be a natural accompaniment of advancing age. Exposure to loud noise is probably the leading cause of tinnitus damage to hearing in younger

people. Medical treatments and assistive hearing devices are often helpful to those with this condition.

Swimmer's Ear An infection of the outer ear structures caused when water gets trapped in the ear canal leading to a collection of trapped bacteria is known as swimmer's ear or otitis external. In this warm, moist environment, bacteria multiply causing irritation and infection of the ear canal.

Although it typically occurs in swimmers, bathing or showering can also contribute to this common infection. In severe cases, the ear canal may swell shut leading to temporary hearing loss and making administration of medications difficult.

Earwax Earwax (also known as cerumen) is produced by special glands in the outer part of the ear canal and is designed to trap dust and dirt particles keeping them from reaching the eardrum. Usually the wax accumulates, dries and then falls out of the ear on its own or is wiped away. One of the most common and easily treatable causes of hearing loss is accumulated earwax. Using cotton swabs or other small objects to remove earwax is not recommended as it pushes the earwax

deeper into the ear, increasing buildup and affecting hearing. Excessive earwax can be a chronic condition best treated by a physician.

Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease Autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) is an inflammatory condition of the inner ear. It occurs when the body's immune system attacks cells in the inner ear that are mistaken for a virus or bacteria.

Prompt medical diagnosis is essential to ensure the most favorable prognosis.

Therefore, recognizing the symptoms of AIED is important: sudden hearing loss in one ear progressing rapidly to the second and continued loss of hearing over weeks or months, a feeling of ear fullness, vertigo and tinnitus. Treatments primarily include medications but hearing aids and cochlear implants are helpful to some.

Cholesteatoma A cholesteatoma is a skin growth that occurs in the middle ear behind the eardrum. This condition usually results from poor eustachian tube function concurrent with middle ear infection (otitis media), but can also be present at birth. The condition is treatable, but can only be diagnosed by medical examination. Over time, untreated cholesteatoma

can lead to bone erosion and spread of the ear infection to localized areas such as the inner ear and brain. If untreated, deafness, brain abscess, meningitis, and death can occur.

Perforated Eardrum A perforated eardrum is a hole or rupture in the eardrum, a thin membrane that separates the ear canal and the middle ear. A perforated eardrum is often accompanied by decreased hearing and occasional discharge with possible pain.

The amount of hearing loss experienced depends on the degree and location of perforation. Sometimes a perforated eardrum will heal spontaneously, other times surgery to repair the hole is necessary.

Serious problems can occur if water or bacteria enter the middle ear through the hole. The physicians at Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist can advise you on protection of the ear from water and bacteria until the hole is repaired. Visit their website for more information or set up an appointment today for a consultation. 770922-5458. 

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

15

How’s Your Hearing?

Have you noticed more difficulty understanding family and friends?

Does everyone just seem to be mumbling? Are you asking people to repeat themselves often? Are you having to turn the TV volume up?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may need to check your hearing…

Did You Know?

www.entspecialists.net Dr. Arthur Torsiglier • Dr. Donald Cote Dr. Adam French • Donna McGough, F-AAA Kristyn Meade, F-AAA • Susann Shriver, CCC-A

• Untreated hearing loss is associated with isolation, depression, memory problems, loss of income and marital problems • Amplification leads to a better quality of life, according to a 1999 study by the National Council on Aging.

• At least 29 million Americans have a hearing impairment; 20%

in adults ages 48-59; over 50% in adults over 75.

• Patients with diabetes are more than twice as likely to have hearing loss.

• Exposure to noise is the leading cause of tinnitus, and almost always accompanies hearing loss.

1370 Wellbrook Circle, Conyers, Georgia / 770-922-5458 4181 Hospital Drive, NE, Suite 102, Covington, Georgia / 770-385-0321 Call today for an appointment!

Medical Conditions that affect

{

your hearing health

M

{

If you experience difficulty hearing, now is the time to schedule your appointment with one of our high qualified, certified Audiologists.

general health FEATURE•

any medical conditions, such as those listed below, can affect your hearing health. Treatment of these and other hearing losses can often lead to improved or restored hearing.

If left undiagnosed and untreated, some conditions can lead to irreversible hearing impairment or deafness. If you suspect that you or your loved one has a problem with their hearing, ensure optimal hearing healthcare by seeking a medical diagnosis from a physician.

Otitis Media The most common cause of hearing loss in children is otitis media, the medical term for a middle ear infection or inflammation of the middle ear. This condition can occur in one or both ears and primarily affects children due to the shape of the young Eustachian tube (and is the most frequent diagnosis for children visiting a physician). When left undiagnosed and untreated, otitis media can lead to infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear, a ruptured ear drum, and hearing loss. If treated appropriately, hearing loss related to otitis media can be alleviated.

Tinnitus Tinnitus is the medical name indicating "ringing in the ears," which includes noises ranging from loud roaring to clicking, humming or buzzing. Most tinnitus comes from damage to the microscopic endings of the hearing nerve in the inner ear. The health of these nerve endings is important for acute hearing, and injury to them brings on hearing loss and often tinnitus. Hearing nerve impairment and tinnitus can also be a natural accompaniment of advancing age. Exposure to loud noise is probably the leading cause of tinnitus damage to hearing in younger

people. Medical treatments and assistive hearing devices are often helpful to those with this condition.

Swimmer's Ear An infection of the outer ear structures caused when water gets trapped in the ear canal leading to a collection of trapped bacteria is known as swimmer's ear or otitis external. In this warm, moist environment, bacteria multiply causing irritation and infection of the ear canal.

Although it typically occurs in swimmers, bathing or showering can also contribute to this common infection. In severe cases, the ear canal may swell shut leading to temporary hearing loss and making administration of medications difficult.

Earwax Earwax (also known as cerumen) is produced by special glands in the outer part of the ear canal and is designed to trap dust and dirt particles keeping them from reaching the eardrum. Usually the wax accumulates, dries and then falls out of the ear on its own or is wiped away. One of the most common and easily treatable causes of hearing loss is accumulated earwax. Using cotton swabs or other small objects to remove earwax is not recommended as it pushes the earwax

deeper into the ear, increasing buildup and affecting hearing. Excessive earwax can be a chronic condition best treated by a physician.

Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease Autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) is an inflammatory condition of the inner ear. It occurs when the body's immune system attacks cells in the inner ear that are mistaken for a virus or bacteria.

Prompt medical diagnosis is essential to ensure the most favorable prognosis.

Therefore, recognizing the symptoms of AIED is important: sudden hearing loss in one ear progressing rapidly to the second and continued loss of hearing over weeks or months, a feeling of ear fullness, vertigo and tinnitus. Treatments primarily include medications but hearing aids and cochlear implants are helpful to some.

Cholesteatoma A cholesteatoma is a skin growth that occurs in the middle ear behind the eardrum. This condition usually results from poor eustachian tube function concurrent with middle ear infection (otitis media), but can also be present at birth. The condition is treatable, but can only be diagnosed by medical examination. Over time, untreated cholesteatoma

can lead to bone erosion and spread of the ear infection to localized areas such as the inner ear and brain. If untreated, deafness, brain abscess, meningitis, and death can occur.

Perforated Eardrum A perforated eardrum is a hole or rupture in the eardrum, a thin membrane that separates the ear canal and the middle ear. A perforated eardrum is often accompanied by decreased hearing and occasional discharge with possible pain.

The amount of hearing loss experienced depends on the degree and location of perforation. Sometimes a perforated eardrum will heal spontaneously, other times surgery to repair the hole is necessary.

Serious problems can occur if water or bacteria enter the middle ear through the hole. The physicians at Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist can advise you on protection of the ear from water and bacteria until the hole is repaired. Visit their website for more information or set up an appointment today for a consultation. 770922-5458. 

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

15

for women

•women's health FEATURE

A BETTER HEALTH CARE EXPERIENCE

Urogynecologic Surgery

Specializing in Gynecology & Urogynecology Surgery

By Lee Udell, Reporter

E

very day, millions of women silently wrestle with issues that cause untold embarrassment, inconvenience and discomfort.

While many people think that urinary and fecal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse are uncommon issues, affecting only a small

- 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 - Bladder Problems and Incontinence - Osteoporosis Screening and Treatment - Screening for Sexually Transmitted Diseases - Treatment for Fibroids, Endometriosis, Abnormal Bleeding, and Ovarian Cysts

35% of women who visit their gynecologist’s office for routine care have urinary incontinence (UI), while 40% experience moderate to severe pelvic organ prolapse.

number of elderly or disabled women, the truth is that these issues are remarkably common.

In fact, data from Yale University shows that about 35% of women who visit their gynecologist’s office for routine care have urinary incontinence (UI), while 40% experience moderate to severe pelvic organ prolapse.

Prolapse and incontinence frequently occur together.

And, indeed, pelvic floor conditions are more common than hypertension, depression, or diabetes in women.

Yet, if you’re like many women, seeking help for these conditions can be a source of embarrassment or fear – or even hopelessness. The stigma of UI and other pelvic floor conditions is enough to keep many women from admitting their concerns, even to their own physicians.

And living with these conditions can be devastating psychologically, as well as socially, emotionally and physically.

The good news is that, while problems like these are common, they aren’t considered normal or inevitable, regardless of age or health, and many effective forms of treatment are available.

The field of urogynecology is a specialized area of both urology and gynecology that focuses on treating women who are faced with these sensitive issues. Urogynecologists receive extensive training in the treatment of conditions that affect the female pelvic organs, as well as the muscles and connective tissue that support these organs.

Treatment for incontinence and prolapse – protrusion of the bladder or vagina from your body – can be either non-surgical or surgical. The first step in getting help is to see a physician who has experience treating these types of conditions and learn about what may be causing your problem. Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and medical history, conduct a physical

16

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

exam and discuss with you which tests are appropriate.

Your physical examine may reveal signs of medical conditions that can cause incontinence, like treatable blockages from bowel or pelvic growths. Tests may include an ultrasound, cystoscopy (using a tiny camera to see inside your urethra and bladder), a urinalysis, and urodynamics to measure pressure in the bladder and the flow of urine.

Depending upon your diagnosis, the severity of your symptoms and your overall health, your physician may recommend conservative, non-surgical therapies as the first approach to treat your pelvic floor disorder. These include medications, pelvic muscle exercise, lifestyle and dietary modifications, use of a vaginal support device called a pessary, and biofeedback.

If your condition doesn’t improve, your doctor may suggest surgery. Many of the available surgical procedures for incontinence and prolapse are minimally invasive, including some robotic-assisted surgeries that may offer a more effective treatment option. Using tiny, 1-2 cm incisions, your surgeon can operate with greater precision and control, so your recovery is faster and less painful, with a better clinical outcome.

Some common urogynecologic surgeries and procedures include: • Suburethral slings – small mesh slings placed under the urethra to help prevent urinary leaks • Sacrocolpopexy – a robotic-assisted procedure to surgically correct vaginal vault prolapse where mesh holds the vagina in the correct anatomical position • Periurethral and transurethral bulking – injections for treatment of stress urinary incontinence • Interstim neuromodulation – a technique that

electrically stimulates the nerves that influence the bladder, used to treat urge incontinence and bladder frequency and urgency • Vaginal reconstruction for prolapse, with or without mesh implantation • Botox therapy – injections to help block the unwanted contractions of an overactive bladder, while leaving surrounding muscles able to function properly These are just some of the procedures your doctor may consider to treat your incontinence or prolapse. Of course, your physician’s recommendations will depend on your diagnosis.

So, rest assured, if you’re one of the millions of women faced with the embarrassment and discomfort of incontinence or prolapse, there are solutions. Schedule an appointment to see your gynecologist today to discuss your situation and your options. If you don’t have a gynecologist, get to know Dr. Stephanie Gordon of The Women’s Center in Conyers. At the Women’s Center, Dr. Gordon and her all-female staff are uniquely trained to help you. They understand the sensitive and difficult nature of the many different problems that a woman can face during her life. Whatever problem you are experiencing, Dr. Gordon and her staff will listen compassionately and work together to create a solution that’s perfect for you. 

Appointments readily available that will fit into your busy schedule.

Procedures We Provide 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 Prolapse, Relaxation and Surgery for Bladder Leakage In-Office Endometrial Ablation for Excessive Menstrual Bleeding

Lanie Vu, NP

Maria Epling, CNP

CONYERS

2750 Owens Drive Suite A 678-413-4644

STOCKBRIDGE

140 Eagles Spring Court Suite B 770-302-0878

Dr. Stephanie Gordon

visit us online @ womenscenterga.com

Marcia Harmon, CNM

for women

•women's health FEATURE

A BETTER HEALTH CARE EXPERIENCE

Urogynecologic Surgery

Specializing in Gynecology & Urogynecology Surgery

By Lee Udell, Reporter

E

very day, millions of women silently wrestle with issues that cause untold embarrassment, inconvenience and discomfort.

While many people think that urinary and fecal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse are uncommon issues, affecting only a small

- 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 - Bladder Problems and Incontinence - Osteoporosis Screening and Treatment - Screening for Sexually Transmitted Diseases - Treatment for Fibroids, Endometriosis, Abnormal Bleeding, and Ovarian Cysts

35% of women who visit their gynecologist’s office for routine care have urinary incontinence (UI), while 40% experience moderate to severe pelvic organ prolapse.

number of elderly or disabled women, the truth is that these issues are remarkably common.

In fact, data from Yale University shows that about 35% of women who visit their gynecologist’s office for routine care have urinary incontinence (UI), while 40% experience moderate to severe pelvic organ prolapse.

Prolapse and incontinence frequently occur together.

And, indeed, pelvic floor conditions are more common than hypertension, depression, or diabetes in women.

Yet, if you’re like many women, seeking help for these conditions can be a source of embarrassment or fear – or even hopelessness. The stigma of UI and other pelvic floor conditions is enough to keep many women from admitting their concerns, even to their own physicians.

And living with these conditions can be devastating psychologically, as well as socially, emotionally and physically.

The good news is that, while problems like these are common, they aren’t considered normal or inevitable, regardless of age or health, and many effective forms of treatment are available.

The field of urogynecology is a specialized area of both urology and gynecology that focuses on treating women who are faced with these sensitive issues. Urogynecologists receive extensive training in the treatment of conditions that affect the female pelvic organs, as well as the muscles and connective tissue that support these organs.

Treatment for incontinence and prolapse – protrusion of the bladder or vagina from your body – can be either non-surgical or surgical. The first step in getting help is to see a physician who has experience treating these types of conditions and learn about what may be causing your problem. Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and medical history, conduct a physical

16

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

exam and discuss with you which tests are appropriate.

Your physical examine may reveal signs of medical conditions that can cause incontinence, like treatable blockages from bowel or pelvic growths. Tests may include an ultrasound, cystoscopy (using a tiny camera to see inside your urethra and bladder), a urinalysis, and urodynamics to measure pressure in the bladder and the flow of urine.

Depending upon your diagnosis, the severity of your symptoms and your overall health, your physician may recommend conservative, non-surgical therapies as the first approach to treat your pelvic floor disorder. These include medications, pelvic muscle exercise, lifestyle and dietary modifications, use of a vaginal support device called a pessary, and biofeedback.

If your condition doesn’t improve, your doctor may suggest surgery. Many of the available surgical procedures for incontinence and prolapse are minimally invasive, including some robotic-assisted surgeries that may offer a more effective treatment option. Using tiny, 1-2 cm incisions, your surgeon can operate with greater precision and control, so your recovery is faster and less painful, with a better clinical outcome.

Some common urogynecologic surgeries and procedures include: • Suburethral slings – small mesh slings placed under the urethra to help prevent urinary leaks • Sacrocolpopexy – a robotic-assisted procedure to surgically correct vaginal vault prolapse where mesh holds the vagina in the correct anatomical position • Periurethral and transurethral bulking – injections for treatment of stress urinary incontinence • Interstim neuromodulation – a technique that

electrically stimulates the nerves that influence the bladder, used to treat urge incontinence and bladder frequency and urgency • Vaginal reconstruction for prolapse, with or without mesh implantation • Botox therapy – injections to help block the unwanted contractions of an overactive bladder, while leaving surrounding muscles able to function properly These are just some of the procedures your doctor may consider to treat your incontinence or prolapse. Of course, your physician’s recommendations will depend on your diagnosis.

So, rest assured, if you’re one of the millions of women faced with the embarrassment and discomfort of incontinence or prolapse, there are solutions. Schedule an appointment to see your gynecologist today to discuss your situation and your options. If you don’t have a gynecologist, get to know Dr. Stephanie Gordon of The Women’s Center in Conyers. At the Women’s Center, Dr. Gordon and her all-female staff are uniquely trained to help you. They understand the sensitive and difficult nature of the many different problems that a woman can face during her life. Whatever problem you are experiencing, Dr. Gordon and her staff will listen compassionately and work together to create a solution that’s perfect for you. 

Appointments readily available that will fit into your busy schedule.

Procedures We Provide 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 Prolapse, Relaxation and Surgery for Bladder Leakage In-Office Endometrial Ablation for Excessive Menstrual Bleeding

Lanie Vu, NP

Maria Epling, CNP

CONYERS

2750 Owens Drive Suite A 678-413-4644

STOCKBRIDGE

140 Eagles Spring Court Suite B 770-302-0878

Dr. Stephanie Gordon

visit us online @ womenscenterga.com

Marcia Harmon, CNM

•general health FEATURE

Back-to-School

IMMUNIZATIONS

By Lee Udell, Reporter

S

vaccines such as these, it can be a challenge for the

you may have about vaccines – or any other health

Vaccination is one of the best ways you can

average parent to know what vaccines are needed

issues – so your doctor can provide the best possible

protect your child, and our physicians can

and when. After all, for children ages 0-18, the CDC

care for your child.

be an important partner in helping your

recommends vaccinations against 16 different diseases.

If you don’t have a pediatrician or family

child grow up healthy and happy. 

That’s why, to help make it a little less confusing and

practitioner for your child, call Pediatric

intimidating, the CDC has developed an entire website

Health Center today and schedule your

for parents to help you understand childhood vaccines

child’s appointment (770-483-4431).

– http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/index.html – so you’re better prepared to discuss vaccines with your child’s physician.

Keep in mind that the schedule of recommended and required vaccines is updated every year, and your child’s

chool bells are ringing all over Rockdale

to the CDC. However, the CDC has

doctor is still your best resource for keeping you current.

County, and as the new school year

determined that the effectiveness

Changes can range from the addition of new vaccines to

begins, there’s no better time to ensure

of the original series of vaccines

tweaks of current recommendations, so no matter what

your child’s immunizations are up to date.

begins to wane, and students

grade your child is in this year, an annual visit can help

Childhood vaccines offer protection against

become more vulnerable to the

keep your child up to date – and healthy.

serious or potentially fatal diseases, ensuring

disease around age 11. Tdap

What’s more, if your child has health issues, or if

your child’s good heath for a lifetime. What’s

booster vaccinations are also

you're planning to travel outside the U.S., your doctor

more, the state of Georgia requires proof of

routinely recommended for adults

can tell you if your child needs to follow a different

vaccination against certain diseases before

aged 19-64.

vaccine schedule. Before you take your child to the phy-

your child can attend school.

Bacterial meningitis, an infection of

sician, be sure to make a list of questions or concerns

This year, however, it could be even more

the covering of the brain and spinal cord,

critical to discuss immunizations with your

is a serious and potentially life-threatening

child’s healthcare provider, because the

disease. The disease can spread easily in a

state’s new regulations require some addi-

school environment, by something as simple

tional vaccines for seventh graders and for

as sharing a spoon at lunch or drinking from

8th through 12th grade students transferring

the same container. “Among people who

into Georgia schools.

develop meningitis, 10 – 15 percent die, in

Beginning this school year, all entering

spite of treatment with antibiotics,” a CDC

seventh graders must have a booster vaccine

fact sheet states. “Seventy-six percent of

for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap),

meningococcal cases among 11-19 year olds

as well as a meningococcal (meningitis)

are vaccine preventable,” the CDC adds.

booster vaccination. The Centers for Disease

Are there other vaccines recommended for

Control and Prevention (CDC) has long

adolescents and teens? The CDC recom-

recommended both vaccines for children in

mends a seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine,

the age range, but this is the first year the

usually available beginning in August, as well

vaccinations are required.

as the HPV vaccination to protect them from

Over the last several years, the state of

most of the cancers caused by the human

Georgia has seen increases in the number

papillomavirus (HPV) infection. These vacci-

of cases of pertussis, also commonly called

nations can be given at the same time as the

“whooping cough.” The original series of

required Tdap and meningococcal boosters.

vaccinations typically takes place from birth

Given the complexity and frequent chang-

through the child’s sixth birthday, according

es to recommendations about childhood

18

“We are here to serve you and your children.”

Dr. Aaron S Goldberg

Dr. Nazneen S Desai

2213 Exchange Place, Suite A Conyers, GA 30013

770-483-4431

www.pediatrichealthcenter.com HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

Dr. Tanya Bigby

Dr. Kenneth Chen

4243 Dunwoody Club Drive, Suite 103 Dunwoody, GA 30350

678-336-5255

East Metro Medical Society American Medical Association Medical Association of Georgia American Academy of Pediatrics American Board Certified Pediatricians

•general health FEATURE

Back-to-School

IMMUNIZATIONS

By Lee Udell, Reporter

S

vaccines such as these, it can be a challenge for the

you may have about vaccines – or any other health

Vaccination is one of the best ways you can

average parent to know what vaccines are needed

issues – so your doctor can provide the best possible

protect your child, and our physicians can

and when. After all, for children ages 0-18, the CDC

care for your child.

be an important partner in helping your

recommends vaccinations against 16 different diseases.

If you don’t have a pediatrician or family

child grow up healthy and happy. 

That’s why, to help make it a little less confusing and

practitioner for your child, call Pediatric

intimidating, the CDC has developed an entire website

Health Center today and schedule your

for parents to help you understand childhood vaccines

child’s appointment (770-483-4431).

– http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/index.html – so you’re better prepared to discuss vaccines with your child’s physician.

Keep in mind that the schedule of recommended and required vaccines is updated every year, and your child’s

chool bells are ringing all over Rockdale

to the CDC. However, the CDC has

doctor is still your best resource for keeping you current.

County, and as the new school year

determined that the effectiveness

Changes can range from the addition of new vaccines to

begins, there’s no better time to ensure

of the original series of vaccines

tweaks of current recommendations, so no matter what

your child’s immunizations are up to date.

begins to wane, and students

grade your child is in this year, an annual visit can help

Childhood vaccines offer protection against

become more vulnerable to the

keep your child up to date – and healthy.

serious or potentially fatal diseases, ensuring

disease around age 11. Tdap

What’s more, if your child has health issues, or if

your child’s good heath for a lifetime. What’s

booster vaccinations are also

you're planning to travel outside the U.S., your doctor

more, the state of Georgia requires proof of

routinely recommended for adults

can tell you if your child needs to follow a different

vaccination against certain diseases before

aged 19-64.

vaccine schedule. Before you take your child to the phy-

your child can attend school.

Bacterial meningitis, an infection of

sician, be sure to make a list of questions or concerns

This year, however, it could be even more

the covering of the brain and spinal cord,

critical to discuss immunizations with your

is a serious and potentially life-threatening

child’s healthcare provider, because the

disease. The disease can spread easily in a

state’s new regulations require some addi-

school environment, by something as simple

tional vaccines for seventh graders and for

as sharing a spoon at lunch or drinking from

8th through 12th grade students transferring

the same container. “Among people who

into Georgia schools.

develop meningitis, 10 – 15 percent die, in

Beginning this school year, all entering

spite of treatment with antibiotics,” a CDC

seventh graders must have a booster vaccine

fact sheet states. “Seventy-six percent of

for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap),

meningococcal cases among 11-19 year olds

as well as a meningococcal (meningitis)

are vaccine preventable,” the CDC adds.

booster vaccination. The Centers for Disease

Are there other vaccines recommended for

Control and Prevention (CDC) has long

adolescents and teens? The CDC recom-

recommended both vaccines for children in

mends a seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine,

the age range, but this is the first year the

usually available beginning in August, as well

vaccinations are required.

as the HPV vaccination to protect them from

Over the last several years, the state of

most of the cancers caused by the human

Georgia has seen increases in the number

papillomavirus (HPV) infection. These vacci-

of cases of pertussis, also commonly called

nations can be given at the same time as the

“whooping cough.” The original series of

required Tdap and meningococcal boosters.

vaccinations typically takes place from birth

Given the complexity and frequent chang-

through the child’s sixth birthday, according

es to recommendations about childhood

18

“We are here to serve you and your children.”

Dr. Aaron S Goldberg

Dr. Nazneen S Desai

2213 Exchange Place, Suite A Conyers, GA 30013

770-483-4431

www.pediatrichealthcenter.com HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

Dr. Tanya Bigby

Dr. Kenneth Chen

4243 Dunwoody Club Drive, Suite 103 Dunwoody, GA 30350

678-336-5255

East Metro Medical Society American Medical Association Medical Association of Georgia American Academy of Pediatrics American Board Certified Pediatricians

rockdalemedicalcenter.org

TIMELINE

A Brief History of Rockdale Medical Center

Celebrating 60 years!

1953

– The Callaway Mills, Milstead Plant, employees were notified that Callaway Mills Foundation was donating $40,000 toward building Rockdale County’s first hospital. The employees matched Callaway’s donation dollar for dollar and the citizens of Rockdale County contributed $55,000 through various fundraisers.

1954 – Hospital is complete and opens with 10 beds.

1960 –

First renovation was made to increase size to 26 beds, added a dining room, and enlarged the emergency room.

1960 –

Construction of Interstate 20 through Rockdale County.

1972–

The first Rockdale Medical Center Volunteer Auxiliary is formed.

1976 –

Renovations begin to expand hospital to 100 beds and 24-hour emergency services.

1978

– The volunteer Chaplin program begins.

1980

– Expansion of the Emergency Department, Day Surgery Center and The Birth Center.

2000 –

Outpatient Diagnostic Center completed.

The Birth Place expands to include a Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

2005

– Completed a renovation (East Tower expansion) that added 173,000 square feet to the hospital.

1984 –

Expansion of the Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit.

2007

– Wound Healing Center opens.

1986 –

The Day Surgery opens.

2009

– Rockdale Medical Center purchased

by LifePoint Hospitals.

1990 –

Rockdale Hospital introduces the Women’s Resource & The Birth Place.

2011

– Rockdale Medical Center begins offering da Vinci Robot surgical services.

2013

– Renovated and expanded the NICU to a Level III 20-bed unit.

Earned Certification by The Joint Commission as a Primary Stroke Center.

rockdalemedicalcenter.org

TIMELINE

A Brief History of Rockdale Medical Center

Celebrating 60 years!

1953

– The Callaway Mills, Milstead Plant, employees were notified that Callaway Mills Foundation was donating $40,000 toward building Rockdale County’s first hospital. The employees matched Callaway’s donation dollar for dollar and the citizens of Rockdale County contributed $55,000 through various fundraisers.

1954 – Hospital is complete and opens with 10 beds.

1960 –

First renovation was made to increase size to 26 beds, added a dining room, and enlarged the emergency room.

1960 –

Construction of Interstate 20 through Rockdale County.

1972–

The first Rockdale Medical Center Volunteer Auxiliary is formed.

1976 –

Renovations begin to expand hospital to 100 beds and 24-hour emergency services.

1978

– The volunteer Chaplin program begins.

1980

– Expansion of the Emergency Department, Day Surgery Center and The Birth Center.

2000 –

Outpatient Diagnostic Center completed.

The Birth Place expands to include a Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

2005

– Completed a renovation (East Tower expansion) that added 173,000 square feet to the hospital.

1984 –

Expansion of the Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit.

2007

– Wound Healing Center opens.

1986 –

The Day Surgery opens.

2009

– Rockdale Medical Center purchased

by LifePoint Hospitals.

1990 –

Rockdale Hospital introduces the Women’s Resource & The Birth Place.

2011

– Rockdale Medical Center begins offering da Vinci Robot surgical services.

2013

– Renovated and expanded the NICU to a Level III 20-bed unit.

Earned Certification by The Joint Commission as a Primary Stroke Center.

•general health FEATURE

general health FEATURE•

Encourage

WAYS TO

Handwashing

Manage Stress

I

t’s that time again. The school year has begun, and with it comes reading, writing – and sharing germs!

Millions of school days are lost every year because of illness, and experts agree that good hand washing is by far the best way to help reduce the number of illnesses – and absences.

When kids come into contact with germs, becoming infected can be as simple as touching their eyes, nose or mouth. And once they're infected, it's usually just a matter of time before the whole family comes down with the same illness.

From the common cold to more serious illnesses such as meningitis, influ-

enza, hepatitis A and infectious diarrhea, good hand washing is the first line of defense.

You can help your child learn the right way to wash his or her hands and reinforce handwashing at home, making it a habit your child will practice at school.

You can even make handwashing fun for your child.

For example, to demonstrate the importance of handwashing, put a small amount of glitter on your child’s hands, and then allow him or her to play with some washable toys. After a few minutes, point out how quickly the glitter has spread – just like germs on toys or other items they share at school!

W

To encourage handwashing, use colorful, scented soaps in dispensers with your child’s favorite cartoon character or superhero. Explain when it’s necessary to wash hands: after using the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, after touching animals or playing outdoors and after being around others who are ill.

Then model good handwashing techniques, and share a fun song with your child – singing “Happy Birthday” twice

gives your child the recommended 20 seconds to scrub. Be sure you use water that’s warm, but not too hot for little hands. Get between fingers, under nails, and up to wrists. Then rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean paper towel.

Children of all ages love to play with bubbles. So turn handwashing into a fun habit your kids will love – and keep your whole family healthier this school year! 

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

{

{

By Lee Udell, Reporter

Kenya Prade C.N.P.

Veronica Garrett naomi Harris sHannon mayfield M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

1415 Milstead Road, Suite A • Conyers, GA 30012

678-413-0858 ~ Se habla espanol

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

C.N.M.

Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare at It’s Best!

hen you're stressed, your head may start to hurt, or you may feel nauseous, dizzy, jittery, or just plain overwhelmed. Stress can have a huge impact on every aspect of your life, so stress reduction is necessary for maintaining both your physical and emotional health. Since you can't simply wish stress away, managing stress is a vital skill to develop.

Managing Stress: When You Experience a Sudden Spike Certain situations create stress instantly, such as a major issue at work or a crisis at home that needs to be addressed right away. When there's an urgent problem that requires your immediate attention, managing stress is important so that you can think clearly.

Try these stress reduction tips to help you deal with anxiety-provoking experiences: • Put it in perspective. Feeling stressed is a natural reaction to bad news. But try to take a step back and ask yourself: will this issue still matter

in a year? In five years? If the answer is no, take a deep breath and try to move forward.

• Come up with a plan. If there's a specific problem you need to fix, make a list of all possible solutions and pick the best one for your situation.

• Accept what you can't control.

Some circumstances are simply beyond our control, and we have to learn to cope with and accept them. Fortunately, you do have control over how you react to stressful situations. Staying calm and being willing to accept emotional support from others can help in managing stress.

Managing Stress: When It’s at a Slow, Steady Boil Sometimes it’s not one specific problem, but rather nagging concerns about your job, health, finances or family members that create a steady build-up of stress. Try these tips to help you with stress reduction: • Give yourself a break. Daily stressors can creep up on you before you realize it, so treat yourself to at least one relaxing activity every day. Listening to music, meditating, visualization exercises, writing in a journal or enjoying a soothing bubble bath are all great ways to relax and relieve stress. Taking time for yourself is important for both preventing and managing stress.

• Get regular exercise. Exercise is one of the best methods for managing stress because it can relieve both the physical and emotional effects of stress. Consider fitness choices that also deliver specific stress-reducing effects like yoga, tai chi, Pilates or one of the martial arts, all great ways to get rid of pent-up stress and negativity.

• Express your feelings. If something's bothering you, don't keep it to yourself. Talk to people you trust, like friends, family or co-workers, about what's on your mind.

Managing Stress: Keeping Stressful Situations to a Minimum • Set reasonable expectations. Being busy is sometimes inevitable, but regularly taking on more than you can manage can cause unwanted and unwelcome stress.

• Resolve issues before they become crises. It’s human nature to avoid unpleasant topics and circumstances, but if you're concerned about a brewing situation, whether it's at work or at home, address it early to keep it from becoming more serious, harder to solve, and more stressful for you.

we accept most major health plans ~ call today for an appointment!

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

23

•general health FEATURE

general health FEATURE•

Encourage

WAYS TO

Handwashing

Manage Stress

I

t’s that time again. The school year has begun, and with it comes reading, writing – and sharing germs!

Millions of school days are lost every year because of illness, and experts agree that good hand washing is by far the best way to help reduce the number of illnesses – and absences.

When kids come into contact with germs, becoming infected can be as simple as touching their eyes, nose or mouth. And once they're infected, it's usually just a matter of time before the whole family comes down with the same illness.

From the common cold to more serious illnesses such as meningitis, influ-

enza, hepatitis A and infectious diarrhea, good hand washing is the first line of defense.

You can help your child learn the right way to wash his or her hands and reinforce handwashing at home, making it a habit your child will practice at school.

You can even make handwashing fun for your child.

For example, to demonstrate the importance of handwashing, put a small amount of glitter on your child’s hands, and then allow him or her to play with some washable toys. After a few minutes, point out how quickly the glitter has spread – just like germs on toys or other items they share at school!

W

To encourage handwashing, use colorful, scented soaps in dispensers with your child’s favorite cartoon character or superhero. Explain when it’s necessary to wash hands: after using the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, after touching animals or playing outdoors and after being around others who are ill.

Then model good handwashing techniques, and share a fun song with your child – singing “Happy Birthday” twice

gives your child the recommended 20 seconds to scrub. Be sure you use water that’s warm, but not too hot for little hands. Get between fingers, under nails, and up to wrists. Then rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean paper towel.

Children of all ages love to play with bubbles. So turn handwashing into a fun habit your kids will love – and keep your whole family healthier this school year! 

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

{

{

By Lee Udell, Reporter

Kenya Prade C.N.P.

Veronica Garrett naomi Harris sHannon mayfield M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

1415 Milstead Road, Suite A • Conyers, GA 30012

678-413-0858 ~ Se habla espanol

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

C.N.M.

Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare at It’s Best!

hen you're stressed, your head may start to hurt, or you may feel nauseous, dizzy, jittery, or just plain overwhelmed. Stress can have a huge impact on every aspect of your life, so stress reduction is necessary for maintaining both your physical and emotional health. Since you can't simply wish stress away, managing stress is a vital skill to develop.

Managing Stress: When You Experience a Sudden Spike Certain situations create stress instantly, such as a major issue at work or a crisis at home that needs to be addressed right away. When there's an urgent problem that requires your immediate attention, managing stress is important so that you can think clearly.

Try these stress reduction tips to help you deal with anxiety-provoking experiences: • Put it in perspective. Feeling stressed is a natural reaction to bad news. But try to take a step back and ask yourself: will this issue still matter

in a year? In five years? If the answer is no, take a deep breath and try to move forward.

• Come up with a plan. If there's a specific problem you need to fix, make a list of all possible solutions and pick the best one for your situation.

• Accept what you can't control.

Some circumstances are simply beyond our control, and we have to learn to cope with and accept them. Fortunately, you do have control over how you react to stressful situations. Staying calm and being willing to accept emotional support from others can help in managing stress.

Managing Stress: When It’s at a Slow, Steady Boil Sometimes it’s not one specific problem, but rather nagging concerns about your job, health, finances or family members that create a steady build-up of stress. Try these tips to help you with stress reduction: • Give yourself a break. Daily stressors can creep up on you before you realize it, so treat yourself to at least one relaxing activity every day. Listening to music, meditating, visualization exercises, writing in a journal or enjoying a soothing bubble bath are all great ways to relax and relieve stress. Taking time for yourself is important for both preventing and managing stress.

• Get regular exercise. Exercise is one of the best methods for managing stress because it can relieve both the physical and emotional effects of stress. Consider fitness choices that also deliver specific stress-reducing effects like yoga, tai chi, Pilates or one of the martial arts, all great ways to get rid of pent-up stress and negativity.

• Express your feelings. If something's bothering you, don't keep it to yourself. Talk to people you trust, like friends, family or co-workers, about what's on your mind.

Managing Stress: Keeping Stressful Situations to a Minimum • Set reasonable expectations. Being busy is sometimes inevitable, but regularly taking on more than you can manage can cause unwanted and unwelcome stress.

• Resolve issues before they become crises. It’s human nature to avoid unpleasant topics and circumstances, but if you're concerned about a brewing situation, whether it's at work or at home, address it early to keep it from becoming more serious, harder to solve, and more stressful for you.

we accept most major health plans ~ call today for an appointment!

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

23

•general health FEATURE

Certain Types of Skin Cancer are at a great risk for developing sun damage & skin cancer.

Y

{

{ DO YOU KNOW YOUR SKIN TYPE?

our skin type is one of the main factors in your

What is skin cancer?

Join the fight against skin cancer by donating to The

risk for skin cancer. There are six skin phototypes,

Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal

Skin Cancer Foundation. Fund public education and

going from light to dark. Individuals with skin types I

skin cells. It occurs when unrepaired DNA damage to

early detection programs, medical seminars, and ground-

and II face the highest risk of developing skin cancer,

skin cells (most often caused by ultraviolet radiation

breaking research. www.skincancer.org

while types V and VI are at the lowest risk. That is be-

from sunshine or tanning beds) triggers mutations,

If you do not have a dermatologist con-

cause those with more pigmentation have more natural

or genetic defects, that lead the skin cells to multiply

tact Georgia Dermatology of Conyers today

protection from the sun. However, people with darker

rapidly and form malignant tumors.

for an appointment. The physicians and

skin can nonetheless get skin cancer. Like light-skinned

• Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer

staff will answer your question and ease

people, they should be cautious of the sun and have

in the United States. More than 3.5 million skin cancers

your concerns. 770-785-7546. 

regular examinations by a doctor.

in over two million people are

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that

diagnosed annually.

everyone practice monthly head-to-toe self examination

• Each year there are more

of their skin, so that they can find any new or changing

new cases of skin cancer than

lesions that might be cancerous or precancerous. Skin

the combined incidence of

cancers found and removed early are almost always

cancers of the breast, prostate,

curable. Learn about the warnings signs of skin cancer

lung and colon.

and what to look for during a self examination. If you

• One in five Americans

spot anything suspicious, see a doctor.

will develop skin cancer in the

Performed regularly, self-examination can alert you

course of a lifetime.

to changes in your skin and aid in the early detection of

Skin cancer is the most

skin cancer. It should be done often enough to become a

common of all cancers,

habit, but not so often as to feel like a bother. For most

afflicting more than two

people, once a month is ideal, but ask your doctor if you

million Americans each year, a

should do more frequent checks.

number that is rising rapidly.

You may find it helpful to have a doctor do a full-body

It is also the easiest to cure, if

exam first, to assure you that any existing spots, freckles,

diagnosed and treated early.

or moles are normal or treat any that may not be. After

When allowed to progress,

the first few times, self-examination should take no

however, skin cancer can result

more than 10 minutes – a small investment in what

in disfigurement and even

could be a life-saving procedure.

death.

24

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

•general health FEATURE

Certain Types of Skin Cancer are at a great risk for developing sun damage & skin cancer.

Y

{

{ DO YOU KNOW YOUR SKIN TYPE?

our skin type is one of the main factors in your

What is skin cancer?

Join the fight against skin cancer by donating to The

risk for skin cancer. There are six skin phototypes,

Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal

Skin Cancer Foundation. Fund public education and

going from light to dark. Individuals with skin types I

skin cells. It occurs when unrepaired DNA damage to

early detection programs, medical seminars, and ground-

and II face the highest risk of developing skin cancer,

skin cells (most often caused by ultraviolet radiation

breaking research. www.skincancer.org

while types V and VI are at the lowest risk. That is be-

from sunshine or tanning beds) triggers mutations,

If you do not have a dermatologist con-

cause those with more pigmentation have more natural

or genetic defects, that lead the skin cells to multiply

tact Georgia Dermatology of Conyers today

protection from the sun. However, people with darker

rapidly and form malignant tumors.

for an appointment. The physicians and

skin can nonetheless get skin cancer. Like light-skinned

• Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer

staff will answer your question and ease

people, they should be cautious of the sun and have

in the United States. More than 3.5 million skin cancers

your concerns. 770-785-7546. 

regular examinations by a doctor.

in over two million people are

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that

diagnosed annually.

everyone practice monthly head-to-toe self examination

• Each year there are more

of their skin, so that they can find any new or changing

new cases of skin cancer than

lesions that might be cancerous or precancerous. Skin

the combined incidence of

cancers found and removed early are almost always

cancers of the breast, prostate,

curable. Learn about the warnings signs of skin cancer

lung and colon.

and what to look for during a self examination. If you

• One in five Americans

spot anything suspicious, see a doctor.

will develop skin cancer in the

Performed regularly, self-examination can alert you

course of a lifetime.

to changes in your skin and aid in the early detection of

Skin cancer is the most

skin cancer. It should be done often enough to become a

common of all cancers,

habit, but not so often as to feel like a bother. For most

afflicting more than two

people, once a month is ideal, but ask your doctor if you

million Americans each year, a

should do more frequent checks.

number that is rising rapidly.

You may find it helpful to have a doctor do a full-body

It is also the easiest to cure, if

exam first, to assure you that any existing spots, freckles,

diagnosed and treated early.

or moles are normal or treat any that may not be. After

When allowed to progress,

the first few times, self-examination should take no

however, skin cancer can result

more than 10 minutes – a small investment in what

in disfigurement and even

could be a life-saving procedure.

death.

24

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

women's health FEATURE•

ANSWERS

change life-limiting to life-affirming.

Key Facts about Skin Cancer •

Skin cancer is the most common form of all cancers, and melanoma accounts for the majority of skin cancer related deaths

•

Melanoma is fifth most common cancer for males, and the seventh most common cancer for females in the U.S.

•

Your risk for melanoma is much higher if you have fair skin, a family history of the disease and spend a lot of time outdoors

•

Early detection is key; when caught early, melanoma has a very high cure rate

•

Always wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when going outdoors, and re-apply often. Avoid going out during the sun’s peark hours (10am-2pm)

DIRECT ACCESS TO SPECIALISTS

ADVANCED RESEARCH

THE LATEST TREATMENTS

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

What Every Woman Should Know About GYN Cancer E

arly detection is the key to successful treatment for more than 84,000 women in the United States who are diagnosed with a gynecologic (GYN) cancer – cervical, ovarian and endometrial cancer – each year. A GYN cancer can occur at any age, so understanding the signs and risk factors and reaching out to your doctor when symptoms occur is important. If cancer care is needed, having a team of specialists working together gives you the best treatment options.

The medical oncology physicians of Georgia Cancer Specialists affiliated with Northside Hospital Cancer Institute (NHCI) work as a team with multidisciplinary conferences that include gynecologic surgeons, radiation oncologists, genetic counselors, nutritionists and social workers to coordinate the most advanced clinical care and research opportunities for their patients with gynecologic malignancies. NHCI is one of the Southeast leaders in the treatment of Gynecologic cancer treating more GYN cancer cases than any other hospital in Georgia.

Below is important information on three of the most common GYN cancers.

Cervical Cancer Most cervical cancers are caused by the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV). For females ages nine to 26, there is a vaccine that protects against HPV. Smoking, poor eating habits, a long history of oral contraceptive use or having a family history of cervical

cancer also increase the risk of contracting cervical cancer. Warning signs include abnormal vaginal bleeding, increased vaginal discharge, pelvic pain or pain during sexual intercourse. Routine pap tests radically reduce mortality rates associated with cervical cancer, and beginning at age 21, women should have a pap test every three years.

Ovarian Cancer Known as the “silent” cancer, ovarian cancer is rarely detected until it’s in an advanced stage. Unfortunately, no screenings exist for the disease, but you can help protect yourself by knowing your family health history and recognizing symptoms. Warning signs include a persistent or worsening of abnormal bleeding or swelling, feelings of fullness or discomfort in the pelvic region, pain during intercourse or frequent urination.

Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer Endometrial cancer is the most common GYN cancer in the United States. All women are at risk, but most cases occur in menopausal or postmenopausal women.

Unfortunately, like ovarian cancer, no accurate screenings

exist, so recognizing symptoms such as postmenopausal bleeding, irregular vaginal discharge or pain or pressure in the pelvis is vital. But be aware that the risk of developing endometrial cancer can be reduced by maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise and avoiding obesity.

Georgia Cancer Specialists is a national leader in advanced cancer treatment and research. GCS’s 47 physicians provide care in 27 Northside Hospital Cancer Institute locations across Metro Atlanta, North and Central Georgia. GCS is The Cancer Answer®.

For more information, please go to gacancer. com. 

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

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

KATHLEEN LAMBERT, MD

SHERINE THOMAS, MD SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

27

women's health FEATURE•

ANSWERS

change life-limiting to life-affirming.

Key Facts about Skin Cancer •

Skin cancer is the most common form of all cancers, and melanoma accounts for the majority of skin cancer related deaths

•

Melanoma is fifth most common cancer for males, and the seventh most common cancer for females in the U.S.

•

Your risk for melanoma is much higher if you have fair skin, a family history of the disease and spend a lot of time outdoors

•

Early detection is key; when caught early, melanoma has a very high cure rate

•

Always wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when going outdoors, and re-apply often. Avoid going out during the sun’s peark hours (10am-2pm)

DIRECT ACCESS TO SPECIALISTS

ADVANCED RESEARCH

THE LATEST TREATMENTS

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

What Every Woman Should Know About GYN Cancer E

arly detection is the key to successful treatment for more than 84,000 women in the United States who are diagnosed with a gynecologic (GYN) cancer – cervical, ovarian and endometrial cancer – each year. A GYN cancer can occur at any age, so understanding the signs and risk factors and reaching out to your doctor when symptoms occur is important. If cancer care is needed, having a team of specialists working together gives you the best treatment options.

The medical oncology physicians of Georgia Cancer Specialists affiliated with Northside Hospital Cancer Institute (NHCI) work as a team with multidisciplinary conferences that include gynecologic surgeons, radiation oncologists, genetic counselors, nutritionists and social workers to coordinate the most advanced clinical care and research opportunities for their patients with gynecologic malignancies. NHCI is one of the Southeast leaders in the treatment of Gynecologic cancer treating more GYN cancer cases than any other hospital in Georgia.

Below is important information on three of the most common GYN cancers.

Cervical Cancer Most cervical cancers are caused by the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV). For females ages nine to 26, there is a vaccine that protects against HPV. Smoking, poor eating habits, a long history of oral contraceptive use or having a family history of cervical

cancer also increase the risk of contracting cervical cancer. Warning signs include abnormal vaginal bleeding, increased vaginal discharge, pelvic pain or pain during sexual intercourse. Routine pap tests radically reduce mortality rates associated with cervical cancer, and beginning at age 21, women should have a pap test every three years.

Ovarian Cancer Known as the “silent” cancer, ovarian cancer is rarely detected until it’s in an advanced stage. Unfortunately, no screenings exist for the disease, but you can help protect yourself by knowing your family health history and recognizing symptoms. Warning signs include a persistent or worsening of abnormal bleeding or swelling, feelings of fullness or discomfort in the pelvic region, pain during intercourse or frequent urination.

Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer Endometrial cancer is the most common GYN cancer in the United States. All women are at risk, but most cases occur in menopausal or postmenopausal women.

Unfortunately, like ovarian cancer, no accurate screenings

exist, so recognizing symptoms such as postmenopausal bleeding, irregular vaginal discharge or pain or pressure in the pelvis is vital. But be aware that the risk of developing endometrial cancer can be reduced by maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise and avoiding obesity.

Georgia Cancer Specialists is a national leader in advanced cancer treatment and research. GCS’s 47 physicians provide care in 27 Northside Hospital Cancer Institute locations across Metro Atlanta, North and Central Georgia. GCS is The Cancer Answer®.

For more information, please go to gacancer. com. 

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

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

KATHLEEN LAMBERT, MD

SHERINE THOMAS, MD SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

27

•general health FEATURE

A NEW DYNAMIC IN PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Breast Surgery: Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift, Breast Reconstruction & Breast Reduction.

HAIR I Removal

Facial Rejuvination: Facelift, Necklifts, Upper & Lower Eyelifts, Browlift, Fat Transfer, Chemical Peel.

t’s no longer only women who wage war against excess body hair. Men are getting in on the act, too, and advancements in hair removal are making it easier for both sexes to achieve a sleek, well-groomed look.

Body Contouring: Liposuction, Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty), Buttock Augmentation, Fat Transfer, Thigh Lift, Armlift.

By Lee Udell, Reporter

Whether it’s on the face, armpits, legs, bikini line, or other body parts, there’s a wide range of options available to remove unwanted hair. While few methods get rid of hair permanently, some options can offer longer-lasting hair removal.

Options range from the old standby, shaving, to new treatments like laser hair removal and even topical prescription medication. Learn more about the different methods available, then choose the one – or even a combination of methods – that fits your budget, your time frame, your skin type and the areas you’re targeting.

• Laser or pulsed light: Penetrates the hair shaft and destroys the root, retarding re-growth of new hair, for smooth, long-lasting results. Can be done anywhere on the body. Common areas treated include the bikini region, under arms, legs, arms and face.

Usually requires 6-10 treatments of up to 30 minutes each, then annual follow-up treatment. Works best on light-skinned people with dark hair. Allows for thinning of hair rather than complete removal, making it a good choice for removing male chest and back hair. May be painful and cause irritation/reddening of treated skin, so should only be performed by a licensed practitioner.

Panacea Plastic Surgery in Conyers (770-929-0634) offers two packages: small areas - $500 for unwanted hair on face, chin, upper lip, neck, underarms or areolas; or large - $1,000 for legs, chest, back, bikini areas (includes Brazilian), buttocks, arms and abdomen.

28

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

• Electrolysis: Also allows thinning of hair, and is only form of hair removal which can be called “permanent.” Can be done anywhere on the body. Uses a tiny needle that slides down into hair follicle to apply electric current to hair root, preventing it from producing more hair. Multiple treatments – as many as 10-25 – may be necessary, so electrolysis can be painful, time-consuming and costly. Beneficial in smaller areas, such as eyebrows or bikini line. About $40-90 per treatment, which typically take 10-20 minutes for small areas. Scars or skin discoloration can result, so not recommended for dark skin types. There are no standardized licensing guidelines for electrolysis, so look for an experienced, effective technician.

• Vaniqu: Topical prescription cream that blocks the enzyme which stimulates hair growth. Safe for all ethnic groups and skin types. Applied twice a day to areas with unwanted facial hair. Visible results take 4-8 weeks, and complete results may take up to 6 months.

Therapy must be continued to keep further hair from growing. Works best for facial hair growth in women on the upper lip, chin, and cheeks. Not recommended for large areas, such as legs, because of cost and feasibility of applying to larger body areas. Cost is between $50150 per 45 gram tube, which can last several months if used on smaller areas.

• Waxing: Cleanly removes large amounts of hair at one time. Warmed wax is spread over skin and allowed to cool. Wax is quickly pulled off in opposite

direction of hair growth, pulling hairs out at the follicles.

Hair must be long enough to be grasped by wax. Good for eyebrows, upper lip, chin, arms, legs, back and chest.

Can be painful and should be followed with application of antibacterial lotion to prevent infection of open follicles. Best done in hygienic conditions in a spa or salon. Requires 10 minutes to an hour, depending on areas being treated, and can range from $10 for upper lip to $70 for legs or Brazilian wax. Must be repeated every few weeks.

• Depilatories: Creams and lotions which dissolve hair slightly below skin surface. Apply to area and leave on skin 5-15 minutes, then wipe or wash off.

Produces a softer feel to severed shaft than shaving, and results last slightly longer. Best for hair on the face, arms, and legs, but not recommended for eyebrows or for use in the genital area. Can result in skin irritation, so should be tested on small area at least 48 hours before application to larger area. Applying hydrocortisone cream after hair removal may help decrease irritation.

Cost is typically $5-10 per tube or bottle.

• Tweezing: Pulls hair out from the roots. Effective but tedious. Plucked hair grows back with tapered end, so is softer and less noticeable when it first comes in. Eventually, however, grows back to normal thickness.

Hair shaft must be long enough to grasp with tweezers.

Best used to remove hair on small areas of the face such as the upper lip, chin, or eyebrows. 

Med Spa: Laser Hair Removal, Chemical Peels, Revision Skin Care Line, Botox, Juvederm, Sculptra.

Dr. Kimberly Singh & Dr. Nour Abboushi offer the highest level of quality results with experience and safety. The very second you walk through their doors, you will experience something unique and personal.

In-Office Procedures: Upper Blepharoplasty, Chemcial Peels, Labiaplasty, Inverted Nipples Correction, Fat Transfer To The Face.

(Mention this advertisment and recieve 20% off your in office procedure.)

Emory Trained • Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

770-929-0634 • www.panaceaplasticsurgery.com 1368 Wellbrook Circle • Conyers, Georgia

•general health FEATURE

A NEW DYNAMIC IN PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Breast Surgery: Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift, Breast Reconstruction & Breast Reduction.

HAIR I Removal

Facial Rejuvination: Facelift, Necklifts, Upper & Lower Eyelifts, Browlift, Fat Transfer, Chemical Peel.

t’s no longer only women who wage war against excess body hair. Men are getting in on the act, too, and advancements in hair removal are making it easier for both sexes to achieve a sleek, well-groomed look.

Body Contouring: Liposuction, Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty), Buttock Augmentation, Fat Transfer, Thigh Lift, Armlift.

By Lee Udell, Reporter

Whether it’s on the face, armpits, legs, bikini line, or other body parts, there’s a wide range of options available to remove unwanted hair. While few methods get rid of hair permanently, some options can offer longer-lasting hair removal.

Options range from the old standby, shaving, to new treatments like laser hair removal and even topical prescription medication. Learn more about the different methods available, then choose the one – or even a combination of methods – that fits your budget, your time frame, your skin type and the areas you’re targeting.

• Laser or pulsed light: Penetrates the hair shaft and destroys the root, retarding re-growth of new hair, for smooth, long-lasting results. Can be done anywhere on the body. Common areas treated include the bikini region, under arms, legs, arms and face.

Usually requires 6-10 treatments of up to 30 minutes each, then annual follow-up treatment. Works best on light-skinned people with dark hair. Allows for thinning of hair rather than complete removal, making it a good choice for removing male chest and back hair. May be painful and cause irritation/reddening of treated skin, so should only be performed by a licensed practitioner.

Panacea Plastic Surgery in Conyers (770-929-0634) offers two packages: small areas - $500 for unwanted hair on face, chin, upper lip, neck, underarms or areolas; or large - $1,000 for legs, chest, back, bikini areas (includes Brazilian), buttocks, arms and abdomen.

28

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

• Electrolysis: Also allows thinning of hair, and is only form of hair removal which can be called “permanent.” Can be done anywhere on the body. Uses a tiny needle that slides down into hair follicle to apply electric current to hair root, preventing it from producing more hair. Multiple treatments – as many as 10-25 – may be necessary, so electrolysis can be painful, time-consuming and costly. Beneficial in smaller areas, such as eyebrows or bikini line. About $40-90 per treatment, which typically take 10-20 minutes for small areas. Scars or skin discoloration can result, so not recommended for dark skin types. There are no standardized licensing guidelines for electrolysis, so look for an experienced, effective technician.

• Vaniqu: Topical prescription cream that blocks the enzyme which stimulates hair growth. Safe for all ethnic groups and skin types. Applied twice a day to areas with unwanted facial hair. Visible results take 4-8 weeks, and complete results may take up to 6 months.

Therapy must be continued to keep further hair from growing. Works best for facial hair growth in women on the upper lip, chin, and cheeks. Not recommended for large areas, such as legs, because of cost and feasibility of applying to larger body areas. Cost is between $50150 per 45 gram tube, which can last several months if used on smaller areas.

• Waxing: Cleanly removes large amounts of hair at one time. Warmed wax is spread over skin and allowed to cool. Wax is quickly pulled off in opposite

direction of hair growth, pulling hairs out at the follicles.

Hair must be long enough to be grasped by wax. Good for eyebrows, upper lip, chin, arms, legs, back and chest.

Can be painful and should be followed with application of antibacterial lotion to prevent infection of open follicles. Best done in hygienic conditions in a spa or salon. Requires 10 minutes to an hour, depending on areas being treated, and can range from $10 for upper lip to $70 for legs or Brazilian wax. Must be repeated every few weeks.

• Depilatories: Creams and lotions which dissolve hair slightly below skin surface. Apply to area and leave on skin 5-15 minutes, then wipe or wash off.

Produces a softer feel to severed shaft than shaving, and results last slightly longer. Best for hair on the face, arms, and legs, but not recommended for eyebrows or for use in the genital area. Can result in skin irritation, so should be tested on small area at least 48 hours before application to larger area. Applying hydrocortisone cream after hair removal may help decrease irritation.

Cost is typically $5-10 per tube or bottle.

• Tweezing: Pulls hair out from the roots. Effective but tedious. Plucked hair grows back with tapered end, so is softer and less noticeable when it first comes in. Eventually, however, grows back to normal thickness.

Hair shaft must be long enough to grasp with tweezers.

Best used to remove hair on small areas of the face such as the upper lip, chin, or eyebrows. 

Med Spa: Laser Hair Removal, Chemical Peels, Revision Skin Care Line, Botox, Juvederm, Sculptra.

Dr. Kimberly Singh & Dr. Nour Abboushi offer the highest level of quality results with experience and safety. The very second you walk through their doors, you will experience something unique and personal.

In-Office Procedures: Upper Blepharoplasty, Chemcial Peels, Labiaplasty, Inverted Nipples Correction, Fat Transfer To The Face.

(Mention this advertisment and recieve 20% off your in office procedure.)

Emory Trained • Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

770-929-0634 • www.panaceaplasticsurgery.com 1368 Wellbrook Circle • Conyers, Georgia

•general health FEATURE

ROCKDALE MEDICAL CENTER AWARDED

LABORATORY ACCREDITATION FROM THE JOINT COMMISSION

By Michelle Kim, Editor

(Conyers, GA – May 27, 2014) Rockdale Medical

support the overall health care delivery system.”

tation center care, behavioral health care, laboratory

Center today announced that it has earned The Joint

“Rockdale Medical Center is pleased to receive

and ambulatory care services. The Joint Commission

Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Labo-

accreditation from The Joint Commission, the premier

currently certifies more than 2,000 disease-specific

ratory Accreditation by demonstrating continuous

health care quality improvement and accrediting

care programs, focused on the care of patients with

compliance with its performance standards. The Gold

body in the nation,” added Deborah Armstrong,

chronic illnesses such as stroke, joint replacement,

Seal of Approval® is a symbol of quality that reflects

CEO, Rockdale Medical Center. “Being accredited

stroke rehabilitation, heart failure and many others.

an organization’s commitment to providing safe and

means we are focused on continual performance

The Joint Commission also provides health care staff-

effective patient care.

improvement. Pathologists and other laboratory staff

ing services certification for more than 750 staffing

Rockdale Medical Center underwent a rigorous,

are working together to develop and implement

offices. An independent, not-for-profit organization,

unannounced on-site survey in April 2014. During the

approaches and strategies that have the potential to

The Joint Commission is the nation's oldest and

review, a team of Joint Commission expert surveyors

improve care for the patients in our community.”

largest standards-setting and accrediting body in

evaluated compliance with laboratory standards

The Joint Commission’s laboratory standards are

health care. Learn more about The Joint Commission

related to several areas, including document and

developed in consultation with health care experts

at www.jointcommission.org.

process control, health care-associated conditions,

and providers, measurement experts and patients.

Rockdale Medical Center is a 138-bed acute-care

risk reduction and staff education. Surveyors also

The standards are informed by scientific literature

hospital that offers an extensive range of in-patient

conducted on-site observations and interviews.

and expert consensus to help organizations measure,

and out-patient services and leading-edge technolo-

The Joint Commission has accredited hospital

assess and improve performance.

gy. Rockdale Medical Center is fully accredited by The

laboratory services since 1979 and freestanding

To learn more about the Laboratory Accreditation

Joint Commission which evaluates hospital patient

laboratories since 1995. Almost 2,000 organizations,

Program, please visit http://www.jointcommission.

care for quality, safety and value. Rockdale Medical

including laboratories in hospitals, reference labs,

org/accreditation/laboratory.aspx.

Center is part of LifePoint Hospitals®, a leading

blood transfusion and donor centers, public health

Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission seeks to

hospital company with 65 hospitals nationwide

laboratories and point-of-care test sites currently

continuously improve health care for the public, in

focused on providing quality healthcare services close

maintain Laboratory Accreditation from The Joint

collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating

to home. 

Commission, awarded for a two-year cycle.

health care organizations and inspiring them to excel

“Joint Commission accreditation gives laborato-

in providing safe and effective care of the highest

ries the processes needed to improve in a variety of

quality and value. The Joint Commission evalu-

areas from specimen collection to result reporting,”

ates and accredits more than 20,000 health care

said Chad Larson, M.B.A., interim executive director,

organizations and programs in the United States,

Laboratory Accreditation Program, The Joint Com-

including more than 10,300 hospitals and home care

mission. “We commend Rockdale Medical Center for

organizations, and more than 6,500 other health

its efforts to have laboratory services contribute and

care organizations that provide nursing and rehabili-

30

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

•general health FEATURE

ROCKDALE MEDICAL CENTER AWARDED

LABORATORY ACCREDITATION FROM THE JOINT COMMISSION

By Michelle Kim, Editor

(Conyers, GA – May 27, 2014) Rockdale Medical

support the overall health care delivery system.”

tation center care, behavioral health care, laboratory

Center today announced that it has earned The Joint

“Rockdale Medical Center is pleased to receive

and ambulatory care services. The Joint Commission

Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Labo-

accreditation from The Joint Commission, the premier

currently certifies more than 2,000 disease-specific

ratory Accreditation by demonstrating continuous

health care quality improvement and accrediting

care programs, focused on the care of patients with

compliance with its performance standards. The Gold

body in the nation,” added Deborah Armstrong,

chronic illnesses such as stroke, joint replacement,

Seal of Approval® is a symbol of quality that reflects

CEO, Rockdale Medical Center. “Being accredited

stroke rehabilitation, heart failure and many others.

an organization’s commitment to providing safe and

means we are focused on continual performance

The Joint Commission also provides health care staff-

effective patient care.

improvement. Pathologists and other laboratory staff

ing services certification for more than 750 staffing

Rockdale Medical Center underwent a rigorous,

are working together to develop and implement

offices. An independent, not-for-profit organization,

unannounced on-site survey in April 2014. During the

approaches and strategies that have the potential to

The Joint Commission is the nation's oldest and

review, a team of Joint Commission expert surveyors

improve care for the patients in our community.”

largest standards-setting and accrediting body in

evaluated compliance with laboratory standards

The Joint Commission’s laboratory standards are

health care. Learn more about The Joint Commission

related to several areas, including document and

developed in consultation with health care experts

at www.jointcommission.org.

process control, health care-associated conditions,

and providers, measurement experts and patients.

Rockdale Medical Center is a 138-bed acute-care

risk reduction and staff education. Surveyors also

The standards are informed by scientific literature

hospital that offers an extensive range of in-patient

conducted on-site observations and interviews.

and expert consensus to help organizations measure,

and out-patient services and leading-edge technolo-

The Joint Commission has accredited hospital

assess and improve performance.

gy. Rockdale Medical Center is fully accredited by The

laboratory services since 1979 and freestanding

To learn more about the Laboratory Accreditation

Joint Commission which evaluates hospital patient

laboratories since 1995. Almost 2,000 organizations,

Program, please visit http://www.jointcommission.

care for quality, safety and value. Rockdale Medical

including laboratories in hospitals, reference labs,

org/accreditation/laboratory.aspx.

Center is part of LifePoint Hospitals®, a leading

blood transfusion and donor centers, public health

Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission seeks to

hospital company with 65 hospitals nationwide

laboratories and point-of-care test sites currently

continuously improve health care for the public, in

focused on providing quality healthcare services close

maintain Laboratory Accreditation from The Joint

collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating

to home. 

Commission, awarded for a two-year cycle.

health care organizations and inspiring them to excel

“Joint Commission accreditation gives laborato-

in providing safe and effective care of the highest

ries the processes needed to improve in a variety of

quality and value. The Joint Commission evalu-

areas from specimen collection to result reporting,”

ates and accredits more than 20,000 health care

said Chad Larson, M.B.A., interim executive director,

organizations and programs in the United States,

Laboratory Accreditation Program, The Joint Com-

including more than 10,300 hospitals and home care

mission. “We commend Rockdale Medical Center for

organizations, and more than 6,500 other health

its efforts to have laboratory services contribute and

care organizations that provide nursing and rehabili-

30

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

•general health FEATURE

general health FEATURE•

Mercy Heart

M

Clinic

ercy Heart Clinic accepted its first patient in

have and continue to devote their skills and compassion

CLERICAL

February of 2010. Now in its fifth year of op-

to the clients we serve.

Sandra Alexander, Ashley Chackalayil, Carl Davis, Jr.,

eration, Mercy Heart Clinic is a charitable health clinic

MEDICAL

Dawn Harrish-Hurk, Sonia Hill, Frank King,

that provides preventative medical and dental care to

Dr. Andy Smith, Dr. Michael Manning, Dr. Onika

Monica Robinson, Elizabeth Sears, Ernestine Smith,

low-income, uninsured and underinsured people in

Popo-James, Dr. Mary Stephens, Priscilla Fraser,

Payton Terrell, Lisa Turner

Rockdale County below the federal poverty level. Mercy

Jan Jajko, Dana Martin, Jan Taylor, Dorothy Reeves

Mercy Heart is solely funded by private donations

Heart serves those with diabetes, hypertension, chronic

DENTAL

with no government funding. The support that Mercy

heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary

Dr. Fred Hedrick, Dr. Jeffrey Dodson, Dr. Aubrey

Heart receives is primarily within Rockdale County. Your

disease (COPD). Mercy Heart also provides basic dental

Hedrick, Dr. Daniel Hodges, Dr. James Proctor, Dr. Doug

support will assure this vital service to your neighbors.

care, including cleanings, extractions and fillings.

Torbush, Tamara Allen, Kaytlin Anderson, Teresa Buttler,

We are blessed to live in a county as caring as ours.

Mercy Heart Clinic expresses its appreciation and

Cherice Dyson, Mary Carder, Jessica Carter, Helen Free-

Please consider becoming a part of Mercy Heart.

admiration to the doctors, dentists, nurses, dental hy-

man, Tracey Galuskin, Schniece Gregory, Paula Groppe,

For more information on Mercy Heart, please visit

gienists/assistants and volunteer clerical personnel who

Linda Jo Jones, Melissa Malcom, Sherry Wiggins

our website at mercyheartclinic.com 

A caring, friendly atmosphere with Over 30 Years of Professional Dedication to each patient and our community.

Dr. Fred Hedrick Jr.

Dr. Jeff Dodson

Dr. Aubrey Hedrick III

• Sedation Dentistry

New Patients Welcome

770.922.3131

email: h_ddent@bellsouth.net www.hedrickanddodson.com

Office Hours: Monday - Thursday: 7:30am - 5:30pm Friday: 7:30am - 1:30pm 1807 Overlake Drive, Suite A Conyers, GA 30013

• • • • • • •

Cosmetic Dentistry Porcelain Veneers Periodontics Endodontics Implants Bridges Crowns

Is the day gone already?

I s this a common question in your life? Many of us jam-pack so much stuff into our daily routines, seemingly there’s no time to relax for just one minute, let alone exercise. Lack of time is one of the most common excuses for not having a decent fitness regimen. But do you realize that in the time it might take you to go through your email, you could fit in a good workout? We’re not talking about giving up 60 minutes either; all you need is 10.

Just 10 minutes?

Forget the "all or nothing" mentality when it comes to exercise. Fitness does not live or die by 60-minute workouts; there is middle ground. Short spurts of exercise, when they accumulate, have been shown to share similar benefits of longer workouts.

Your body will reap numerous benefits just by becoming more active. This approach is perfect for times when you don’t have time for a regular workout, or when you want to start off slowly and build up a routine.

Easier Than You Think Treat these 10 minutes like you would a regular workout. Take 1-2 minutes to warm up and get the muscles ready, including stretching. Follow with at least 7 minutes of exercise at a medium or high intensity.

Then make sure to include a 60-second cool down.

Since it’s brief, it’s important to work at a fairly high intensity to obtain all of the benefits.

Work at raising your heart and respiration rates. Just like regular workouts, try to include cardio, strength training and flexibility work in your shortened

routine. Either knock out all three during the 10 minutes, or plan a 10-minute segment for each area.

Example: Push out 10 cardio minutes on the stationary bike. For strength, do push-ups, wall sits or lift dumbbells. For flexibility, it’s helpful to just stretch every day. Work different muscle groups and keep it simple.

After 10 minutes, you will feel healthier and be on your way to developing solid fitness habits.

But I Still Don’t Have Time It only takes 30 minutes a day, broken up into manageable chunks of 10. Start with a quick exercise when you wake up. The second session? A lunch break is possibly the perfect time to re-energize and get the blood flowing again. The last 10-minute blitz could come in the evening, even while you are watching TV. It’s an ideal way to involve the family as well. Go for a power walk after dinner with your spouse or ride bikes with the kids.

It is all about convenience ; if you try, you can fit exercise into your schedule no matter where you are. Do it at home or at work, outside or in the living room. Start building exercise spurts into your daily routine and you’ll start feeling better. 

Remember, exercise comes in all shapes and sizes.

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

33

•general health FEATURE

general health FEATURE•

Mercy Heart

M

Clinic

ercy Heart Clinic accepted its first patient in

have and continue to devote their skills and compassion

CLERICAL

February of 2010. Now in its fifth year of op-

to the clients we serve.

Sandra Alexander, Ashley Chackalayil, Carl Davis, Jr.,

eration, Mercy Heart Clinic is a charitable health clinic

MEDICAL

Dawn Harrish-Hurk, Sonia Hill, Frank King,

that provides preventative medical and dental care to

Dr. Andy Smith, Dr. Michael Manning, Dr. Onika

Monica Robinson, Elizabeth Sears, Ernestine Smith,

low-income, uninsured and underinsured people in

Popo-James, Dr. Mary Stephens, Priscilla Fraser,

Payton Terrell, Lisa Turner

Rockdale County below the federal poverty level. Mercy

Jan Jajko, Dana Martin, Jan Taylor, Dorothy Reeves

Mercy Heart is solely funded by private donations

Heart serves those with diabetes, hypertension, chronic

DENTAL

with no government funding. The support that Mercy

heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary

Dr. Fred Hedrick, Dr. Jeffrey Dodson, Dr. Aubrey

Heart receives is primarily within Rockdale County. Your

disease (COPD). Mercy Heart also provides basic dental

Hedrick, Dr. Daniel Hodges, Dr. James Proctor, Dr. Doug

support will assure this vital service to your neighbors.

care, including cleanings, extractions and fillings.

Torbush, Tamara Allen, Kaytlin Anderson, Teresa Buttler,

We are blessed to live in a county as caring as ours.

Mercy Heart Clinic expresses its appreciation and

Cherice Dyson, Mary Carder, Jessica Carter, Helen Free-

Please consider becoming a part of Mercy Heart.

admiration to the doctors, dentists, nurses, dental hy-

man, Tracey Galuskin, Schniece Gregory, Paula Groppe,

For more information on Mercy Heart, please visit

gienists/assistants and volunteer clerical personnel who

Linda Jo Jones, Melissa Malcom, Sherry Wiggins

our website at mercyheartclinic.com 

A caring, friendly atmosphere with Over 30 Years of Professional Dedication to each patient and our community.

Dr. Fred Hedrick Jr.

Dr. Jeff Dodson

Dr. Aubrey Hedrick III

• Sedation Dentistry

New Patients Welcome

770.922.3131

email: h_ddent@bellsouth.net www.hedrickanddodson.com

Office Hours: Monday - Thursday: 7:30am - 5:30pm Friday: 7:30am - 1:30pm 1807 Overlake Drive, Suite A Conyers, GA 30013

• • • • • • •

Cosmetic Dentistry Porcelain Veneers Periodontics Endodontics Implants Bridges Crowns

Is the day gone already?

I s this a common question in your life? Many of us jam-pack so much stuff into our daily routines, seemingly there’s no time to relax for just one minute, let alone exercise. Lack of time is one of the most common excuses for not having a decent fitness regimen. But do you realize that in the time it might take you to go through your email, you could fit in a good workout? We’re not talking about giving up 60 minutes either; all you need is 10.

Just 10 minutes?

Forget the "all or nothing" mentality when it comes to exercise. Fitness does not live or die by 60-minute workouts; there is middle ground. Short spurts of exercise, when they accumulate, have been shown to share similar benefits of longer workouts.

Your body will reap numerous benefits just by becoming more active. This approach is perfect for times when you don’t have time for a regular workout, or when you want to start off slowly and build up a routine.

Easier Than You Think Treat these 10 minutes like you would a regular workout. Take 1-2 minutes to warm up and get the muscles ready, including stretching. Follow with at least 7 minutes of exercise at a medium or high intensity.

Then make sure to include a 60-second cool down.

Since it’s brief, it’s important to work at a fairly high intensity to obtain all of the benefits.

Work at raising your heart and respiration rates. Just like regular workouts, try to include cardio, strength training and flexibility work in your shortened

routine. Either knock out all three during the 10 minutes, or plan a 10-minute segment for each area.

Example: Push out 10 cardio minutes on the stationary bike. For strength, do push-ups, wall sits or lift dumbbells. For flexibility, it’s helpful to just stretch every day. Work different muscle groups and keep it simple.

After 10 minutes, you will feel healthier and be on your way to developing solid fitness habits.

But I Still Don’t Have Time It only takes 30 minutes a day, broken up into manageable chunks of 10. Start with a quick exercise when you wake up. The second session? A lunch break is possibly the perfect time to re-energize and get the blood flowing again. The last 10-minute blitz could come in the evening, even while you are watching TV. It’s an ideal way to involve the family as well. Go for a power walk after dinner with your spouse or ride bikes with the kids.

It is all about convenience ; if you try, you can fit exercise into your schedule no matter where you are. Do it at home or at work, outside or in the living room. Start building exercise spurts into your daily routine and you’ll start feeling better. 

Remember, exercise comes in all shapes and sizes.

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

33

•general health FEATURE movements a day to three a week can be considered normal. The important thing to pay attention to is a change in what is normal for you.

A few things to know about a bowel movement: • Stool frequency is usually regulated by how much fiber you eat, how much fluid you drink, and how much exercise you get.

• Constipation occurs when you have fewer bowel movements than usual. Your stool is usually harder and dryer than normal. If you go more than four days without a stool, you may be constipated.

• Diarrhea stools are more loose and watery and more frequent than normal.

Diarrhea is more likely to be caused by an infection.

What Does It Look Like?

Take a look at your poop. A normal stool has a brown color that comes from bile salts released by your liver. If your food has been digested properly, your stool should sink to the bottom of the toilet.

Here are some problems to watch for: • Dark-colored stool can be a sign of bleeding somewhere in your digestive system. If blood is coming from the lower area of the colon or the anus, the stool may be stained bright red. Blood from higher up in the digestive system may appear black or tar-like.

• Clay-colored stool may be a warning of liver or gallbladder problem. Possible causes for stool that appears pale or clay-colored include viral hepatitis, gallstones or alcoholic hepatitis.

• Stool that floats can be a sign of an intestinal infection or a change in your diet that introduces more gas into your digestive system. People who have malabsorption, a condition in which you can't absorb enough fat and other nutrients, often have floating stools.

Bowel movements are more than just the waste product of digestion.

SPECIALIZING IN DIGESTIVE DISEASES & NUTRITION BOARD CERTIFIED PHYSICIANS

It can tell you a lot about your digestive health.

T

he words "feces" or "stool" do not usually enter into polite conversation. If we talk about bowel movements at all, it is usually an older person complaining about not having one or a younger person making a poop joke.

But whatever we call it, feces is an important part of our digestive process, and it can tell us a lot about our digestive health.

34

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

What Is Feces?

A bowel movement is the last stop in the digestive process. After your body has extracted all the nutrients and liquids that it needs, the waste that is left contains some fluids, undigested food — mostly in the form of fiber — and old cells that have shed from the linings of your intestines.

About two quarts of liquid and solid waste pass

through your body each day. That solid waste is your stool. Changes in its color, consistency, frequency and even its smell can be important clues to digestive problems.

How Often Do You Go? The normal number of bowel movements varies quite a bit from person to person. Anywhere from three bowel

How Does It Smell?

It's normal for poop to smell. The smell comes from the bacteria in your colon that help break down your food. The important thing to pay attention to is a change in the way your poop usually smells. In most cases this is just due to a change in your diet, but very foul-smelling feces can be a sign of a medical condition. Here are some causes of particularly foul-smelling stool: • Celiac disease • Crohn's disease • Pancreatitis • Ulcerative colitis • Malabsorption • Infection Feces, stool, poop, or waste — whatever you choose to call it, you should not ignore it. It's important to let your doctor know if you have blood in your stool, black stool, pale stool, fever, cramps, mucus in your stool, pain, floating stool or weight loss.

Knowing the facts about feces is no joke. 

Fred A. Levin MD, FACP, FACG

Karen L. Weiss-Schorr MD

A. Steven McIntosh MD, FACG

David N. Socoloff DO

770-922-0505 EASTATLANTAGASTRO.COM 1269 Wellbrook Circle Conyers, GA

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

7229 Wheat Street Covington, GA

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

7229 W Covingto

1000 Cowles Clinic W

NO OFFERIN

Specializing n

Colorectal

n

Esophagea

n

Gastro Eso

n

Inflammat

n

Pancreatic

n

Non-Invasi

•general health FEATURE movements a day to three a week can be considered normal. The important thing to pay attention to is a change in what is normal for you.

A few things to know about a bowel movement: • Stool frequency is usually regulated by how much fiber you eat, how much fluid you drink, and how much exercise you get.

• Constipation occurs when you have fewer bowel movements than usual. Your stool is usually harder and dryer than normal. If you go more than four days without a stool, you may be constipated.

• Diarrhea stools are more loose and watery and more frequent than normal.

Diarrhea is more likely to be caused by an infection.

What Does It Look Like?

Take a look at your poop. A normal stool has a brown color that comes from bile salts released by your liver. If your food has been digested properly, your stool should sink to the bottom of the toilet.

Here are some problems to watch for: • Dark-colored stool can be a sign of bleeding somewhere in your digestive system. If blood is coming from the lower area of the colon or the anus, the stool may be stained bright red. Blood from higher up in the digestive system may appear black or tar-like.

• Clay-colored stool may be a warning of liver or gallbladder problem. Possible causes for stool that appears pale or clay-colored include viral hepatitis, gallstones or alcoholic hepatitis.

• Stool that floats can be a sign of an intestinal infection or a change in your diet that introduces more gas into your digestive system. People who have malabsorption, a condition in which you can't absorb enough fat and other nutrients, often have floating stools.

Bowel movements are more than just the waste product of digestion.

SPECIALIZING IN DIGESTIVE DISEASES & NUTRITION BOARD CERTIFIED PHYSICIANS

It can tell you a lot about your digestive health.

T

he words "feces" or "stool" do not usually enter into polite conversation. If we talk about bowel movements at all, it is usually an older person complaining about not having one or a younger person making a poop joke.

But whatever we call it, feces is an important part of our digestive process, and it can tell us a lot about our digestive health.

34

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

What Is Feces?

A bowel movement is the last stop in the digestive process. After your body has extracted all the nutrients and liquids that it needs, the waste that is left contains some fluids, undigested food — mostly in the form of fiber — and old cells that have shed from the linings of your intestines.

About two quarts of liquid and solid waste pass

through your body each day. That solid waste is your stool. Changes in its color, consistency, frequency and even its smell can be important clues to digestive problems.

How Often Do You Go? The normal number of bowel movements varies quite a bit from person to person. Anywhere from three bowel

How Does It Smell?

It's normal for poop to smell. The smell comes from the bacteria in your colon that help break down your food. The important thing to pay attention to is a change in the way your poop usually smells. In most cases this is just due to a change in your diet, but very foul-smelling feces can be a sign of a medical condition. Here are some causes of particularly foul-smelling stool: • Celiac disease • Crohn's disease • Pancreatitis • Ulcerative colitis • Malabsorption • Infection Feces, stool, poop, or waste — whatever you choose to call it, you should not ignore it. It's important to let your doctor know if you have blood in your stool, black stool, pale stool, fever, cramps, mucus in your stool, pain, floating stool or weight loss.

Knowing the facts about feces is no joke. 

Fred A. Levin MD, FACP, FACG

Karen L. Weiss-Schorr MD

A. Steven McIntosh MD, FACG

David N. Socoloff DO

770-922-0505 EASTATLANTAGASTRO.COM 1269 Wellbrook Circle Conyers, GA

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

7229 Wheat Street Covington, GA

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

7229 W Covingto

1000 Cowles Clinic W

NO OFFERIN

Specializing n

Colorectal

n

Esophagea

n

Gastro Eso

n

Inflammat

n

Pancreatic

n

Non-Invasi

general health FEATURE•

YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. QUALITY IS WORTH EVERY PENNY!

Rockdale Medical Center

is well equipped

- Interventional Radiology - Vascular Radiology - Nuclear Radiology

General Diagnostic • X-Ray • Fluoroscopy • Ultrasound • Nuclear Medicine

Body Imaging • CT Scans • MRI • PET • Ultrasound • Interventional Specials Lab • Cardiac Cath Lab

Women’s Imaging • Digital Mammography - Screening and Diagnostic • Stereotactic Guided Biopsy • Ultrasound Guided Biopsy • Breast MRI

Saturday Appointments Now Available for Your Convenience.

770-918-3707

1412 Milstead Avenue Conyers, GA 30012

equipment and staff our community needs for detecting

ailments, illnesses or physical complaints an individual may be experiencing. We have well-trained radiologists who read digital images and scans, determine their conclusion and then discuss

{

{

Rockdale Medical Center’s Outpatient Imaging Center combines high quality imaging and onsite Board Certified Radiologists to give you peace of mind.

• Accredited by the American College of Radiology • Onsite Registered Nurse for Pre- and Post Care • Fellowship Trained Radiologists in the subspecialties:

R

ockdale Medical Center is well equipped with the medical

their findings with the ordering physician, who is then better able to diagnose their patient. Based on the nature of the ailments the patient is experiencing, the radiologist can also determine which equipment would be of better use when determining a diagnosis.

Our Medical Center has high tech medical equipment

are then used to manipulate the protons and create an

rotation, decreasing scan times and producing 3D views

such as the MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CAT

image on the computer. The images are then viewed by

of the area being examined. Compared to regular x-rays,

(Computed Axial Tomography) Scanners. The machines

a radiologist to study and dictate their findings.

these images give the radiologist a more detailed view of the different organs inside the body, such as the liver,

in Rockdale Medical Center’s Outpatient Diagnostic Imaging Center are some of the most advanced in the

Quite different, though just as useful, is the CAT

region.

scanner. While the MRI uses magnets and coils to create

kidneys, lungs or heart.

an image, the CAT scanner uses a series of x-rays. A CAT

All scans are performed by highly trained radiology

A MRI scan provides physicians with more detailed

scanner is a large donut shaped machine attached to a

technologists and images are read by on-site Board

images of certain types of body tissue (joints, internal

flat table. The patient lies flat on the table then is slowly

Certified Radiologists. The combination of our high tech

organs, the spine or brain) without the use of x-ray. The

drawn into the machine. The CAT scanner takes multiple

medical equipment, well-trained doctors and tech-

MRI uses a strong magnetic field guided by carefully

images, axial, or up and down the body. Imagine the

nologists allows Rockdale Medical Center to provide

placed coils. The coils are located inside a large cylinder

body as an uncut loaf of bread and the CAT scanner as

excellent care for our community.

with openings at each end. A motorized table moves

the bread slicer. As the “slicer” separates the “loaf”

slowly into the cylinder either head first or feet first de-

into different segments, or as the scanner takes more

pending upon the region of the body which needs to be

images of the body, a clearer, more profound view is

examined. The magnet stimulates the protons around

presented. Rockdale Medical Center’s state-of-the-art

the region, causing them to swirl about. Radio waves

64-slice scanner creates 64 high resolution images per

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

37

general health FEATURE•

YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. QUALITY IS WORTH EVERY PENNY!

Rockdale Medical Center

is well equipped

- Interventional Radiology - Vascular Radiology - Nuclear Radiology

General Diagnostic • X-Ray • Fluoroscopy • Ultrasound • Nuclear Medicine

Body Imaging • CT Scans • MRI • PET • Ultrasound • Interventional Specials Lab • Cardiac Cath Lab

Women’s Imaging • Digital Mammography - Screening and Diagnostic • Stereotactic Guided Biopsy • Ultrasound Guided Biopsy • Breast MRI

Saturday Appointments Now Available for Your Convenience.

770-918-3707

1412 Milstead Avenue Conyers, GA 30012

equipment and staff our community needs for detecting

ailments, illnesses or physical complaints an individual may be experiencing. We have well-trained radiologists who read digital images and scans, determine their conclusion and then discuss

{

{

Rockdale Medical Center’s Outpatient Imaging Center combines high quality imaging and onsite Board Certified Radiologists to give you peace of mind.

• Accredited by the American College of Radiology • Onsite Registered Nurse for Pre- and Post Care • Fellowship Trained Radiologists in the subspecialties:

R

ockdale Medical Center is well equipped with the medical

their findings with the ordering physician, who is then better able to diagnose their patient. Based on the nature of the ailments the patient is experiencing, the radiologist can also determine which equipment would be of better use when determining a diagnosis.

Our Medical Center has high tech medical equipment

are then used to manipulate the protons and create an

rotation, decreasing scan times and producing 3D views

such as the MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CAT

image on the computer. The images are then viewed by

of the area being examined. Compared to regular x-rays,

(Computed Axial Tomography) Scanners. The machines

a radiologist to study and dictate their findings.

these images give the radiologist a more detailed view of the different organs inside the body, such as the liver,

in Rockdale Medical Center’s Outpatient Diagnostic Imaging Center are some of the most advanced in the

Quite different, though just as useful, is the CAT

region.

scanner. While the MRI uses magnets and coils to create

kidneys, lungs or heart.

an image, the CAT scanner uses a series of x-rays. A CAT

All scans are performed by highly trained radiology

A MRI scan provides physicians with more detailed

scanner is a large donut shaped machine attached to a

technologists and images are read by on-site Board

images of certain types of body tissue (joints, internal

flat table. The patient lies flat on the table then is slowly

Certified Radiologists. The combination of our high tech

organs, the spine or brain) without the use of x-ray. The

drawn into the machine. The CAT scanner takes multiple

medical equipment, well-trained doctors and tech-

MRI uses a strong magnetic field guided by carefully

images, axial, or up and down the body. Imagine the

nologists allows Rockdale Medical Center to provide

placed coils. The coils are located inside a large cylinder

body as an uncut loaf of bread and the CAT scanner as

excellent care for our community.

with openings at each end. A motorized table moves

the bread slicer. As the “slicer” separates the “loaf”

slowly into the cylinder either head first or feet first de-

into different segments, or as the scanner takes more

pending upon the region of the body which needs to be

images of the body, a clearer, more profound view is

examined. The magnet stimulates the protons around

presented. Rockdale Medical Center’s state-of-the-art

the region, causing them to swirl about. Radio waves

64-slice scanner creates 64 high resolution images per

SUMMER 2014 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE

37

•general health FEATURE

Types of, Diagnosis & Treatments

FOOT PAIN

F

oot pain is a common complaint, and it can have many causes. Read on to learn more about different types of foot pain, diagnosis, and treatments.

Recommended Related to Pain Management Is Your Pain Acute or Chronic?

Pain is a normal part of life: a skinned knee, a tension headache, a bone fracture. But sometimes pain becomes chronic – a problem to explore with your doctor.

WebMD asked Eduardo Fraifeld, MD, president of the American Academy of Pain Medicine, to help readers understand acute vs. chronic pain.

Causes of Foot Pain Pain in the foot can be due to a problem in any part of the foot. Bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, fascia, toenail beds, nerves, bloodvessels, or skin can be the source of foot pain.

The cause of foot pain can be narrowed down by location and by considering some of the most common causes of foot pain.

Heel Pain Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. The plantar fascia, a band of tough tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes irritated or inflamed. Heel pain, worst in the morning when getting out of bed, is the most common symptom. Arch pain may also be present.

Treatment for plantar fasciitis includes: • Rest • Calf and foot muscle stretches • Over-the-counter pain relievers • Shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole Various other treatments for plantar fasciitis are available.

Heel spurs are abnormal growths of bone on the bottom of the heel bone that may be caused by an abnormal gait, posture or walking, inappropriate shoes or certain activities. Spurs may cause foot pain while walking or standing. Although one in 10 people has heel spurs, only one in 20 of these people will have foot pain.

Heel spurs can occur in people with plantar fasciitis, but they do not cause plantar fasciitis. People with flat feet or high arches are more likely to have foot pain from heel spurs.

38

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

Treatment for heel spurs include: • Cutout heel pad • Custom-made insert (orthotic) worn in the shoe • Over-the-counter pain relievers • Rest • Surgery (rarely) • Physical therapy A stone bruise is a bruise of the fat pad of the heel. It can occur after stepping on a rock or other hard object.

A fracture of the heel bone (calcaneus) is the most commonly fractured foot bone. It is most often caused by high impact to the heel – for example, when person has fallen from a height or been in a car accident. Injuries can range from a bone crack from a new vigorous exercise plan to a shattered bone from a high fall. Heel pain, bruising, swelling, limping or difficulty walking are the main symptoms.

Calcaneus fracture treatment includes: • Rest from weight bearing, often with crutches • Thorough padding of the heel • Splinting or casting to protect the heel bone • Pain relievers • Surgery • Physical therapy Ball of Foot Pain Metatarsalgia is pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. Strenuous activity or ill-fitting shoes are the usual causes. Treatment for metatarsalgia includes: • Pain relievers • Change to more comfortable footwear • Inserts for the shoes to relieve pressure on the ball of the foot Arch Pain Arch pain is most often caused by plantar fasciitis, which can affect the heel, arch or both. Plantar fasciitis treatment is the same, regardless of the location of foot pain (see above). For persistent plantar fasciitis, an injection with a mixture of a steroid and local anesthetic can be helpful.

Fallen arches – or flat feet – occurs when the arches of the feet flatten out (often when standing or walking), causing foot pain and other problems. Flat feet can be treated with shoe inserts (orthotics), shoe adjustments, rest/ice, using a walking case or brace, or physical therapy. Occasionally, surgery is necessary.

Toe Pain Arthritis, including gout, can cause pain in the toes.

Gout is an inflammatory condition in which crystals periodically deposit in joints, causing severe pain and swelling. The big toe is often affected by gout.

Treatment for gout includes: • Rest • Medication such as colchicine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications, or prednisone • Pain relievers • Daily medication and diet restriction to prevent gout attacks A bunion (hallux valgus) is a bony prominence along the edge of the foot, next to the base of the big toe.

Bunions may occur in anyone, but are often caused by ill-fitting footwear in women. Hammer toes often occur with bunions.

Bunion treatment includes: • Changing to more comfortable shoes; if this is unsuccessful in relieving foot pain, orthotics may be tried.

If those are unsuccessful, surgery might be considered.

Hammer toe occurs when the near joint in the toe is bent, creating a hammer-like appearance. Wearing tight shoes is the main cause of hammer toe.

Claw toe occurs when the joint at the end of a toe may become unable to straighten, causing the toe to point down or up. Irritation of the feet and other feet problems may develop, without special footwear to accommodate the claw toe.

Treatment of hammer toe and claw toe includes: • Changing to better-fitting footwear; avoiding high heels and tight shoes • Stretching exercises for toes and toe joints • Shoe inserts • Orthotics • Surgery may sometimes be necessary Contact Ankle & Foot Specialists of Rockdale today for appointment. Dr Williams and his friendly staff will diagnosis and prescribe the perfect treatment to get you on the move again. 

Do you have achy feet?

We specialize in quality medical and surgical care for all types of foot and ankle problems.

Now Accepting Blue Cross/Blue Shield HMO & POS! • Heel/Ankle Pain • Infected/Ingrown Nails • Planter Warts • • Bunions & Hammertoes • Corns & Callouses • Flat Feet • • Diabetic Feet • Nerve Pain/Heuromas • Sprains & Injuries • • Tumors • Joint Replacement • Athritis • Fractures •

Dr. James E. Williams, Jr.

Ankle & Foot Specialists of Rockdale PC 1025 East Freeway Drive • Conyers

770-929-3338 • www.anklefootspecialists.com

•general health FEATURE

Types of, Diagnosis & Treatments

FOOT PAIN

F

oot pain is a common complaint, and it can have many causes. Read on to learn more about different types of foot pain, diagnosis, and treatments.

Recommended Related to Pain Management Is Your Pain Acute or Chronic?

Pain is a normal part of life: a skinned knee, a tension headache, a bone fracture. But sometimes pain becomes chronic – a problem to explore with your doctor.

WebMD asked Eduardo Fraifeld, MD, president of the American Academy of Pain Medicine, to help readers understand acute vs. chronic pain.

Causes of Foot Pain Pain in the foot can be due to a problem in any part of the foot. Bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, fascia, toenail beds, nerves, bloodvessels, or skin can be the source of foot pain.

The cause of foot pain can be narrowed down by location and by considering some of the most common causes of foot pain.

Heel Pain Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. The plantar fascia, a band of tough tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes irritated or inflamed. Heel pain, worst in the morning when getting out of bed, is the most common symptom. Arch pain may also be present.

Treatment for plantar fasciitis includes: • Rest • Calf and foot muscle stretches • Over-the-counter pain relievers • Shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole Various other treatments for plantar fasciitis are available.

Heel spurs are abnormal growths of bone on the bottom of the heel bone that may be caused by an abnormal gait, posture or walking, inappropriate shoes or certain activities. Spurs may cause foot pain while walking or standing. Although one in 10 people has heel spurs, only one in 20 of these people will have foot pain.

Heel spurs can occur in people with plantar fasciitis, but they do not cause plantar fasciitis. People with flat feet or high arches are more likely to have foot pain from heel spurs.

38

HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2014

Treatment for heel spurs include: • Cutout heel pad • Custom-made insert (orthotic) worn in the shoe • Over-the-counter pain relievers • Rest • Surgery (rarely) • Physical therapy A stone bruise is a bruise of the fat pad of the heel. It can occur after stepping on a rock or other hard object.

A fracture of the heel bone (calcaneus) is the most commonly fractured foot bone. It is most often caused by high impact to the heel – for example, when person has fallen from a height or been in a car accident. Injuries can range from a bone crack from a new vigorous exercise plan to a shattered bone from a high fall. Heel pain, bruising, swelling, limping or difficulty walking are the main symptoms.

Calcaneus fracture treatment includes: • Rest from weight bearing, often with crutches • Thorough padding of the heel • Splinting or casting to protect the heel bone • Pain relievers • Surgery • Physical therapy Ball of Foot Pain Metatarsalgia is pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. Strenuous activity or ill-fitting shoes are the usual causes. Treatment for metatarsalgia includes: • Pain relievers • Change to more comfortable footwear • Inserts for the shoes to relieve pressure on the ball of the foot Arch Pain Arch pain is most often caused by plantar fasciitis, which can affect the heel, arch or both. Plantar fasciitis treatment is the same, regardless of the location of foot pain (see above). For persistent plantar fasciitis, an injection with a mixture of a steroid and local anesthetic can be helpful.

Fallen arches – or flat feet – occurs when the arches of the feet flatten out (often when standing or walking), causing foot pain and other problems. Flat feet can be treated with shoe inserts (orthotics), shoe adjustments, rest/ice, using a walking case or brace, or physical therapy. Occasionally, surgery is necessary.

Toe Pain Arthritis, including gout, can cause pain in the toes.

Gout is an inflammatory condition in which crystals periodically deposit in joints, causing severe pain and swelling. The big toe is often affected by gout.

Treatment for gout includes: • Rest • Medication such as colchicine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications, or prednisone • Pain relievers • Daily medication and diet restriction to prevent gout attacks A bunion (hallux valgus) is a bony prominence along the edge of the foot, next to the base of the big toe.

Bunions may occur in anyone, but are often caused by ill-fitting footwear in women. Hammer toes often occur with bunions.

Bunion treatment includes: • Changing to more comfortable shoes; if this is unsuccessful in relieving foot pain, orthotics may be tried.

If those are unsuccessful, surgery might be considered.

Hammer toe occurs when the near joint in the toe is bent, creating a hammer-like appearance. Wearing tight shoes is the main cause of hammer toe.

Claw toe occurs when the joint at the end of a toe may become unable to straighten, causing the toe to point down or up. Irritation of the feet and other feet problems may develop, without special footwear to accommodate the claw toe.

Treatment of hammer toe and claw toe includes: • Changing to better-fitting footwear; avoiding high heels and tight shoes • Stretching exercises for toes and toe joints • Shoe inserts • Orthotics • Surgery may sometimes be necessary Contact Ankle & Foot Specialists of Rockdale today for appointment. Dr Williams and his friendly staff will diagnosis and prescribe the perfect treatment to get you on the move again. 

Do you have achy feet?

We specialize in quality medical and surgical care for all types of foot and ankle problems.

Now Accepting Blue Cross/Blue Shield HMO & POS! • Heel/Ankle Pain • Infected/Ingrown Nails • Planter Warts • • Bunions & Hammertoes • Corns & Callouses • Flat Feet • • Diabetic Feet • Nerve Pain/Heuromas • Sprains & Injuries • • Tumors • Joint Replacement • Athritis • Fractures •

Dr. James E. Williams, Jr.

Ankle & Foot Specialists of Rockdale PC 1025 East Freeway Drive • Conyers

770-929-3338 • www.anklefootspecialists.com

www.rockdalemedicalcenter.org

60 years

of success does not happen without strong partners.

Thank YOU for your support.