The magazine that reflects the healthy lifestyles of the residents of the Rockdale County area and beyond.
KEEP GRILLING SAFE
What is MDVIP? Check List for HEART DISEASE
SUMMER 2015
Serving Rockdale & Newton Area Over 16 Years!
EASTSIDE INTERNAL MEDICINE, LLC BOARD CERTIFIED, AMERICAN BOARD OF INTERNAL MEDICINE
SYED WASIM MD, MPH
FARHANA QUASEM MD
Walk-Ins Welcome! On-Site Lab & X-Ray! Doctor on Call 24/7!
MASOOD SIDDIQUEE MD, MRCP (U.K.)
• Hypertension/Diabetes/High Cholesterol • Women’s Wellness • Pap Smear • Drug Screens • Physicals & Sports Physicals • Worker’s Comp. Injuries • Asthma/Emphysema • Thyroid • Depression • Men’s Health • Erectile Dysfunction • STD Treatment • Minor Surgery • Heart Failure
2080 Eastside Drive, Conyers, Georgia • 678-625-7800 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm • Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 noon
MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED 2 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2015
FEATURES IN FOCUS SUMMER 2015
Summer is in the air Keep Grilling SAFE
PAGE 6
Diabetes Care in the Heat PAGE 9
HRT — Not Just for Women PAGE 23
Sunscreen, Yes or No? PAGE 36
SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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ISSUE GUIDE
CONTENTS 6. Keep Grilling Safe 9. Diabetes Care in the Heat 11. Swallowing Disorders 13. Women and Incontinence 14. What is MD VIP? 17. Are You Living Too Loud? 18. Neurological Disorders 19. Minimally Invasive Robotic Surgery 22. Morning Sickness 23. HRT…Not Just for Women 24. What is Actinic Keratosis? 26. Sports Medicine/Summer Injuries 28. 12 Heart Symptoms Never to Ignore 30. Peripheral Artery Disease 31. High Blood Pressure Risk Factors 32. Cancer Fighting Foods 34. Constipation 35. Comprehensive Care, Close to Home
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36. Reduce Your Risk of Sunburn 39. What is MRKH?
The magazine that reflects the healthy lifestyles of the residents of the Rockdale County area and beyond.
VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3, SUMMER 2015
ANNETTE GODWIN Sales Director CAROL MASSEY Graphics/Layout Design MICHELLE KIM Editor AMANDA ELLINGTON
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Circulation Supervisor DEBBIE THOMPSON Comptroller LEE UDELL; KATHY LAMBERT, MD; DONNA MCGOUGH, F-AAA Writers
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Healthy in Rockdale Magazine is published by The News of Rockdale. No portion of this issue including publisher designed advertisements may be copied, scanned or reproduced in any manner without prior written consent from the publisher. Healthy in Rockdale accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or photographs. These will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. Healthy in Rockdale Magazine is available free to subscribers of The News. To subscribe to The News or The Covington News, please call 770-787-6397.To advertise in Healthy in Rockdale, please call 770-728-1436.
36 SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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Just to get your mouth watering here’s a recipe for a perfect beef marinade: 125 ml (1/2 cup) red wine 3 ml (1/2 tsp) salt 5 ml (1 tsp) sugar 30 ml (2 tbsp) oil 30 ml (2 tbsp) chili sauce 5 ml (1 tsp) Worcestershire sauce Garlic, Provencal herbs and pepper, to taste Mix all the ingredients together. Add the beef and marinate in the refrigerator for 24 hours.
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Summertime Grilling… KEEPING IT SAFE Lee Udell
N
othing goes with warm weather and lazy days like summertime grilling. You name it, and, odds are, you can throw it on the grill! It seems everything we grill turns out tastier — and lower in fat — than the same foods cooked in the kitchen. But, before you dust off the grill and grab the charcoal, remember that grilling isn’t without concerns about health and safety. For example, a couple of potentially cancer-causing compounds [polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs)] can result from cooking foods on the grill. PAHs form when fat from the meat drips onto the hot coals or grill element. They’re then deposited on the food courtesy of flame-ups and rising smoke. Unfortunately, that yummy charring that forms on meat can contain PAHs, as well. Meanwhile, HCAs are produced when red meat, poultry and fish meet high-heat cooking, like grilling. So what can you do to keep your barbeque season healthy — and safe — for family and friends?
disease, stroke, obesity and cancer. But here’s the best part: PAHs and HCAs don’t form on grilled fruits and vegetables. • Reduce bacteria: Always cook meat and poultry based on temperature, not appearance. Use a food thermometer to ensure meats have reached a safe minimum internal temperature. Then, keep cooked meats hot until serving by setting them to the side of the grill rack or placing in a 200° oven or warming tray. • Don’t take shortcuts: To prevent food borne illness, don’t use the same platter and utensils for raw and cooked meats or poultry. These grilling shortcuts may save time, but harmful bacteria from the raw meats or juices can contaminate your safely cooked foods. Wash cutting boards and utensils in hot, soapy water between uses, or use color-coded sets to keep raw meats, seafood and poultry and ready-to-eat foods separate. And always, always wash your hands!
• Clean your grill: Scrubbing with a brush and dish detergent both before and after grilling food keeps the buildup of carcinogens on your grill grates to a minimum and makes your food taste so much better.
• Flip it: Flipping food frequently may help prevent the formation of HCAs, according to recent research using hamburger patties. To turn meat without piercing it (which releases juices that drip onto the coals), use tongs or spatulas instead of a fork.
• Marinate your meat: Marinating meat helps to reduce carcinogens. In fact, studies by Kansas State University researchers showed that steaks marinated in three different mixtures of oil, vinegar, and herbs and spices all had as much as 88% fewer carcinogens after grilling. Plus, marinating lets you add bold flavors without adding too many calories or fat grams.
• Avoid the burn: A little bit of charred taste is unavoidable — and we all know it tastes good! But burned meat contains more cancer-causing compounds. So, don’t overheat coals before placing meat on the grill, which can cause burning on the outside of your meat. And remove any charred portions of your food before serving.
• Prevent flare-ups: Choose lean meats, poultry, and fish. Less fatty meats are obviously healthier, but they also mean less smoke from the grill, which means less of the bad stuff. Also, include grilled vegetables and fruits with your cookout. Eating fruits and vegetables benefits your body in so many ways, like lower risk of coronary
Of course, every form of food preparation has risks, but knowing what those risks are and how to avoid them is the secret to success. So, whether you’re a weekend-only griller or an every-day grill gourmet, follow these simple tips to help keep you, your family and your friends safe and healthy this grilling season.
SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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Prepare for Diabetes Care in
Heat and Emergencies
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lan ahead for diabetes care during summer heat, storms and emergencies. Keep your routine and prepare your medicines and equipment for challenging conditions. Beat the heat and storms to care for your diabetes. If you have diabetes, you know how important it is to have a care routine. Yet summer weather, with its high temperatures and extreme storms, can cause problems with that routine and make it more difficult to manage diabetes. Diabetes makes it harder for your body to handle high heat and humidity. You may need to make changes in your medication and what you eat and drink when temperatures rise. During emergencies and natural disasters such as hurricanes or tornadoes, you may have other needs related to diabetes. F Identify yourself as a person with diabetes so you can get appropriate care. F If you’re a family member, caregiver, or health care provider for someone with diabetes, please share this information with them.
HIGH HEAT
Hot weather — temperatures of 80°F (about 27°C) or above, especially with high humidity — can affect medication, testing supplies and your health. The heat index, which measures how hot it really feels by combining temperature and humidity readings, advises caution starting at 80°F with 40% humidity. Extreme heat is especially dangerous to people aged 65 and older, children younger than 4, people with mental illnesses, and people with chronic diseases such as diabetes. F Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to avoid dehydration. Don’t wait until you get thirsty: it’s a sign you’re already dehydrated. Avoid sugar-sweetened drinks such as sweet tea and sodas. F If your doctor has limited how much liquid you can drink, ask what to do during times of high heat to stay hydrated. F Know the signs of heat-related illness and how to respond to symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment isn’t provided. F Wear sunscreen and use a lip balm with sunscreen. F Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. F Check medication package inserts to learn when high temperatures can affect them. Carry medications with you if you’ll need to take them while you’re away from home, and
protect them from the heat. F If you’re traveling with insulin, don’t store it in direct sunlight or in a hot car. Keep it in a cooler, but don’t place it directly on ice or on a gel pack. F Check glucose meter and test strip packages for information on use during times of high heat and humidity. Don’t leave them in a hot car, by a pool, or on the beach. F Heat can damage insulin pumps and other equipment. Don’t leave the disconnected pump or supplies in the direct sun or in a hot car. F Get physical activity in air-conditioned areas, or exercise outside early or late in the day, during cooler temperatures. F Use your air conditioner or go to air-conditioned buildings in your community to stay cool.
WHAT TO DO DURING EMERGENCIES
People with diabetes face extra challenges during emergencies and natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornadoes. If you’re evacuating — leaving your home to get away from a threat — or staying in an emergency shelter, let others know that you have diabetes so that you can take care of your health. If you have other health problems, such as chronic kidney disease or heart disease, make sure you let others know about those, too. F Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Safe drinking water may be hard to find in emergencies, but if you don’t take in enough water, you could develop serious medical problems. Heat, stress, high blood sugar, and some diabetes medicines such as metformin can cause you to lose fluid, which increases the chances you’ll become dehydrated. F Keep something containing sugar with you at all times, in case you develop dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). You may not be able to check blood sugar levels, so know the warning signs of low blood sugar. F Pay special attention to your feet. Stay out of contaminated water, wear shoes, and examine feet carefully for any sign of infection or injury. Get medical treatment quickly for any injuries. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN CONTACT EAGLES LANDING FAMILY PRACTICE FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY AT 678-374-7514.
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Swallowing Disorders
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Lee Udell
he act of swallowing may seem simple and automatic, but doctors have learned that, for hundreds of thousands of people, it can cause anything from froggy throats to choking deaths. In fact, every year, as many as 10,000 people choke to death in the United States. For a lot of these victims, it’s not a sudden, accidental occurrence, but rather the result of subtle but progressive nerve and muscle problems that attack the swallowing mechanism over time. These types of swallowing disorders may evolve so gradually that they go unnoticed or are misdiagnosed. ‘’Swallowing is a well-orchestrated, complex mechanism involving muscles, nerves and cartilages, and there are many opportunities for things to go wrong,’’ says Dr. Fred Levin, of East Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates. “The field has been neglected, because the problems can be hard to detect and frequently fall between the cracks of traditional specialties.” However, today, doctors can more easily diagnose dysphagia (or difficulty swallowing), thanks to advanced diagnostic techniques, such as radiographic motion pictures of the actual swallowing process. Difficulty swallowing is usually a sign of a problem with your throat or esophagus, the muscular tube that moves food and liquids from the back of your mouth to your stomach. Although dysphagia can happen to anyone, it’s most common in older adults, babies, and people who have problems of the brain or nervous system.
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There are many different issues that can prevent the throat or esophagus from working properly. Some of these are minor, and others are more serious. If you have a hard time swallowing once or twice, you probably don’t have a medical problem. But if you have trouble swallowing on a regular basis, you may have a more serious problem that needs treatment. Two types of problems can make it hard for
food and liquids to travel down your esophagus: • The muscles and nerves that help move food through the throat and esophagus are not working right. Examples of this include: stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, dermatomyositis, esophageal spasm, or scleroderma. • Something is blocking your throat or esophagus. This may happen if you have: gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, diverticula, esophageal tumors, or masses outside the esophagus, such as lymph nodes or thyroid.
k If you’re having difficulty swallowing or feel like foods are stuck in your throat, your physician may order tests such as x-rays, a barium swallow (an x-ray where you swallow a special liquid beforehand), or a type of scope, such as endoscopy, where a thin, flexible tube looks at your throat and esophagus. Treatment will depend on the cause of your problems, and can range from exercises
general health
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or changing the types of foods you eat, to medications or surgery. Endoscopy or surgery may be required to remove something blocking your esophagus. However, if your problem is related to GERD, heartburn, or esophagitis, prescription medicines can help prevent stomach acid from entering your esophagus. Infections of the esophagus can be treated with prescription antibiotics.
If you’re experiencing swallowing difficulties, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. The doctors at East Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates have treated hundreds of patients with swallowing disorders. Call 770-922-0505 for an appointment today, and visit one of their convenient locations in Covington, Conyers and Greensboro.
BOARD CERTIFIED PHYSICIANS
SPECIALIZING IN DIGESTIVE DISEASES & NUTRITION
NOW OFFERING Monitored Anesthesia Care for Your Endoscopy
• • • • • • • • • • •
Colorectal Cancer Screening and Prevention Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders Non-Invasive Hemorrhoid Therapy Pancreatic and Billiary Disorders Inflammatory Bowel Disease Irritable Bowel Syndrome Video Capsule Endoscopy IV Infusion Therapy Chronic Constipation Liver Disease
770-922-0505
EASTATLANTAGASTRO.COM
Fred A. Levin
MD, FACP, FACG
Karen L. Weiss-Schorr MD
A. Steven McIntosh David N. Socoloff MD, FACG
DO
1269 Wellbrook Circle Conyers, GA
Razvi M. Razack MD
7229 Wheat Street Covington, GA
1000 Cowles Clinic Way Cypress Building, Suite C-300 Greensboro, GA
SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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Dr. Stephanie Gordon
Specializing in Gynecology & Urogynecology Surgery Board Certified in Urogynecology Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery
Dr. Trent Rice
Care We Provide:
Procedures We Provide:
• Well Women Health Care and Comprehensive Annual Exams
• Davinci Robotics Gynecological Surgery
• Pap Smears, Breast Exams, and In-Office Ultrasounds
• Traditional Abdominal Hysterectomy, Vaginal Hysterectomy, and Laparoscopic Assisted Hysterectomy
• Full range of Contraception Options
• Myomectomy for Fibroid Tumors
• Menopausal Management - Traditional and Alternative
• In-office ESSURE Tubal Ligation
• Adolescent and Pediatric Gynecology • Infertility Workups Marcia Harmon, CNM
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (including pellets, injections and compounding cream)
• Hysteroscopic Surgery
• Bladder Problems and Incontinence
• Repair of Pelvic Prolaspe, Relaxation and Surgery for Bladder Leakage
• Accidental Bowel Leakage or Chronic Constipation Management • Pelvic Relaxation or Prolapse Management • Treatment for Fibroids, Endometriosis, Abnormal Bleeding, and Ovarian Cyst Maria Epling, CNP
• Laparoscopic Surgery for Ovarian Problems, Endometriosis, Tubal and Adhesive Diseases
• Osteoporosis Screening and Treatment • Screening for Sexually Transmitted Diseases
• Colposcopies for Abnormal Pap Smears and LEEP Procedures
• In-Office Endometrial Ablation for Excessive Menstrual Bleeding • Procedures for Accidental Bowel Leakage including Interstim and Solesta Injections • In office Anesthesia provided by Board Certified Anesthesiologist
Most Major Medical Insurance and Medicare Accepted 2750 Owens Drive • Conyers, GA 30094 • 678.413.4644 140 Eagles Spring Court • Stockbridge, GA 30281 • 770.302.0878
www.womenscenterga.com
Lanie Vu, NP
12 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2015
Privileges At Rockdale & Piedmont Henry Hospitals
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Women and
Urinary Incontinence
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wice as many women as men develop urinary incontinence. Two common types are stress incontinence and urge incontinence from overactive bladder (OAB). It’s important to observe as much as possible about your urinary incontinence so you and your doctor can develop the right treatment for you. For example, when you get an intense urge to pee, are you unable to make it to the toilet without urinating — a sign of urge incontinence? Or do you leak small amounts of urine — a symptom of stress incontinence? Stress incontinence is the most common type of incontinence in young and middleaged women. It can be caused by changes that occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause. Overactive bladder happens when inappropriate nerve signals are sent to the bladder, creating the “gotta go” sensation, although the bladder may not be full or it is an inappropriate time. This can lead to involuntary loss of urine. OAB can be the result of nerve or muscle damage, medical conditions, even a reaction to medications. Patients will often have both. If a patient has ‘urgency,’ they may have mild bladder contractions that create the urgency, but don’t actually cause leakage because their muscles are strong enough to keep it in. Sometimes they have severe bladder contractions, and not even the best muscles can stop that. Or they may have a weak muscle from some stress incontinence and mild urgency or bladder contractions causing them to leak with both. That’s where fixing one may fix another.
Urinary Incontinence: Starting the Conversation Since discussing urinary incontinence is usually the biggest hurdle for people, some doctors have found ways to integrate it into the conversation. Once you broach the subject, your doctor will usually ask questions to help determine what kind of incontinence you may have. Tests may also be needed to rule out potential causes contributing to incontinence like infections, diabetes, or other medical issues. Sometimes doctors ask people to track their urination pattern for a few days or more. This “bladder diary” can include information such as how much liquid you drink each day, any drugs you take, and symptoms such as straining that may occur with incontinence, as well as when and how often it happens. You can also keep a bladder diary before you see a doctor so you are prepared to answer common questions. If you do not have a physician call The Women’s Center today at 678-413-4644. You can set up an appointment with Dr. Gordon, Dr. Rice or one of their practitioners. The Women’s Center offers a complete array of services to their patients. Their special f o c us i s o n t rea t m ent o f hea v y p er i o d s , incontinence, and minimally invasive surgeries.
SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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A Great Way to
Practice Medicine! Lee Udell
“I
believe Benjamin Franklin was right on target when he made that statement,” said Michael J. Manning, MD, a boardcertified family physician at Bridgewater Family Practice in Conyers. “That’s why I’m part of the MDVIP system of health care — founded more than a decade ago in the U.S. to offer individualized service, focused on disease and illness prevention for a range of health needs.” Manning, who has practiced in Conyers for many years, said offering the MDVIP service allows him to spend much more time with his patients than ever before. “We try to do preventive medicine,” he said, adding that, in addition to getting such conditions as diabetes under control, he seeks to be a step ahead, to prevent such diseases from ever taking hold. Screenings, specialized tests and access to the latest technology help Manning identify patients at risk for specific diseases and take steps to keep those patients healthy. “What’s more, my patients can call me any time,” said Manning. “That’s crucial, especially for those with conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
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or COPD, a serious lung disease.” He said seeing and treating a COPD patient when problems first flare up might prevent that patient from ending up in the hospital. The same is true for patients managing many other serious diseases. The sooner they can receive treatment, the better the outcome. Dr. Manning invites anyone interested in learning more about MDVIP to contact him and set up a time to meet with him. “There’s NO CHARGE for this meet-and-greet, and we can sit down and review their health,” he said. “I’ll tell them what the program is all about, and they can decide if the program is right for them.” For more information, call 678-413-7979.
Personalized Health Care through Value In Prevention
Prevention Program Includes: • Home Visits • Extensive Physical Exams • Specific Screenings and Tests • Pre-health Risk Assessment • Yearly Physicals
Dr. Michael Manning
Most Insurances accepted, including Medicare
Call Today For An Appointment
678-413-7979
2215 Exchange Place SE, Conyers, GA 30013
Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center
SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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YOUNGER,
YOUNGER,
YOUNGER... LOUDER,
LOUDER,
LOUDER... WHAT IS IT
DOING TO OUR
HEARING?
DR. DONALD COTE DR. ARTHUR TORSIGLIERI DR. ADAM FRENCH DONNA McGOUGH, F-AAA KRISTYN MEADE, F-AAA SUSANN SHRIVER, CCC-A
11370 Wellbrook Circle Conyers, Georgia
770-922-5458 16 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2015
4181 Hospital Drive, NE, Suite 102 Covington, Georgia
770-385-0321
HEAR THIS!
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Are You Living Life Too Loud? Donna McGough, F-AAA
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e hear it every day… Pump up the volume! Turn it up! Live life loud! But are we living life too loud? How loud was that leaf blower you used yesterday? How about the hair dryer, motorcycle, or MP3 player? We are surrounded by loud sounds every day that have the potential to create hearing loss. Hearing loss caused by loud sound or prolonged exposure to noise is called noise-induced hearing loss. This doesn’t just occur from power tools or rock concerts. Every day, we’re bombarded with loud sounds: appliances, power tools, or loud music. Fun family experiences such as car races, concerts, or riding motor bikes can contribute to a slow deterioration of your hearing. This type of hearing loss is usually permanent and is also quite susceptible to further damage. Even children are at risk! Recent studies suggest up to 12% of all children ages 6-19 have the beginnings of noise-related hearing loss. Young children and teens are constantly bombarded with noise on a daily basis. It’s not just the iPods and video games, either. How about that playoff game you took your kids to? Sporting events have been known to reach noise levels of over 140 decibels! What about that Monster truck event, the hunting trip, or the ride on the ATV? Although these events may be fun, they’re also exposing kids to damaging levels of noise. Kids and teens are also exposed to loud noise in places you might normally think are safe, like at school. Think of how loud a band class is, or even a shop class. A simple solution: wear ear protection! Experts agree that listening to music at high volumes using earbuds or headphones over an hour a day could put you at risk for noise-related hearing
loss. As a general guide, if you can’t hear another person speaking over the music or noise, then it’s loud enough to damage your hearing. If the noise is painful, or making your ears ring, it’s too loud! Previous studies estimate that people use personal audio devices at an average of 94 dB. Experts agree that sounds over 85 decibels can permanently damage your hearing over a period of time. 85 dB is roughly equivalent to the sound of a microwave beep. At levels measuring 95 dB, it only takes 45 minutes to exceed the acceptable “dose” of noise. Noise-induced hearing loss is usually preventable. So, what can we do? Here are some tips to minimize your risk for noiseinduced hearing loss: • At concerts or festivals, stand away from loud speakers, and take regular breaks in a quieter area to give your ears a rest from loud music. • Keep the volume control on your listening device turned only to the halfway mark. • Wear reusable, filtered earplugs that reduce the volume, not the quality of the sound. • Look for fun headphones and custom-made earplugs available for children. • As adults, be a good example to kids, by wearing ear protection while target shooting, working with power tools, or any other noisy hobbies or chores. Warning signs of noise-induced hearing loss include ringing in the ears, fullness feeling in the ears, or difficulty understanding conversations, especially in crowded areas. Occasionally a noise-related hearing loss can be temporary. Contact your local Audiologist or Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist to help you determine the cause of any hearing problem.
“Good hearing is extremely important. I just think people should be very conscious and protective of their hearing.” — Harry Belafonte, Singer & Actor SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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Neurological DISORDERS
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olfgang Amadeus Mozart was one of the greatest musical geniuses of all time. But many biographical accounts often comment on his peculiar behavior, which has been interpreted by some as a manifestation of an underlying neurological disorder, such as Tourette syndrome (TS). Today, celebrities with neurological disorders are frequently in the news: Michael J. Fox with Parkinson’s disease, Montel Williams with multiple sclerosis, and Prince, who even wrote a song about his childhood epilepsy. Neurological disorders like these and hundreds of others are diseases of the brain and spine and the nerves that connect
• Brain Injuries/Concussions • Neuropathies/Numbness • Strokes • Peripheral Nerve Injuries • Seizures • Memory Loss/Dementia • Epilepsy • Multiple Sclerosis • Neurologic Pain/Headaches • Optic Neuritis
them. These three parts of the body work together as the nervous system to control everything in the body. If something isn’t functioning correctly within one of these components, it can lead to difficulties learning, breathing, swallowing, speaking and moving, as well as problems associated with mood, senses or memory. More than 600 such diseases exist, but more commonly known ones include epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, brain tumors, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Structural, biochemical or electrical abnormalities affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide, and as many as 6.2 million people die annually from strokes alone. Symptoms of neurological disease can range from loss of sensation to pain, muscle weakness to paralysis, altered levels of consciousness to seizures. And while many of these disorders are relatively common, many others are rare.
BRYAN RIGGEAL, MD
Neurology & Neuro-Ophthalmology
Locally, Drs. Bryan and Candice Riggeal, of Rockdale Neurology Associates, treat neurological disorders, and have special expertise in the areas of epilepsy and neuro-ophthalmology. For a consultation, call 770-278-0154.
CANDICE RIGGEAL, DO Neurology & Epilepsy
1255 Commercial Drive, Suite B, Conyers, GA 30094
770-278-0154
18 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2015
liate of Rockdale Medical Center
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What is the…
da Vinci® Surgical System?
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ou’ve learned that you need surgery, and you’re unsettled and even a little frightened. You’ve discussed your options with your doctor, and he’s recommending something called da Vinci® Surgery. But what is da Vinci® Surgery, and why would you choose that option? Over the past decade, more than 1.5 million surgeries have been performed worldwide using the da Vinci® Surgical System. This less invasive technique requires much smaller cuts than traditional surgery, and uses robotic technology that translates the surgeon’s hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside your body. “One of the greatest advantages of performing robotic surgery is the 3D capability of the camera versus the 2D camera in standard laparoscopic surgery,” says Dr. Andrew S. Harper, general surgeon. “This 3D capability allows for better magnification and visibility. In addition, the wristed instruments of the robot allow for more precise dissection and suturing versus standard laparoscopy. These combined benefits
allow us to perform more complex surgeries and let patients enjoy the benefits of minimally invasive surgery that would otherwise require an open operation.” Dr. Harper routinely uses the da Vinci robot to perform surgeries including: ventral incisional hernia repairs, cholecystectomy (gallbladder), colectomy (colon), and splenectomy (spleen), when clinically indicated. Compared with open surgery, da Vinci Surgery may offer you: • A shorter hospital stay • Less blood loss • Fewer complications • Less need for narcotic pain medicine • A faster recovery • Smaller incisions for minimal scarring
If you’re anticipating surgery and want to know more about the benefits of state-of-the-art da Vinci Surgery, contact Dr. Harper’s Conyers office at 770-922-4024 to schedule an appointment.
THE DA VINCI SURGICAL SYSTEM Minimally Invasive Robotic Surgery
Hernia, Ventral Hernia, Gallbladder, Colon Surgery
ROCKDALE SURGICAL ASSOCIATES 1301 Sigman Road NE • Suite 225 Conyers, Georgia 30012
770-922-4024
General Surgery Andrew Harper, MD
Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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No Appointment Necessary
Affiliate of Rockd
20 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2015
G P U C
ROCKDALE PHYSICIAN PRACTICES
Remarkable People, Remarkable Medicine.
dale Medical Center
SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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Morning Sickness M
orning sickness is a condition many pregnant women must face. It is generally one of the first symptoms of pregnancy and can begin as early as six weeks after conception, lasting until the end of the first trimester. Despite its name, morning sickness is not reserved for early in the day but can occur in the morning, afternoon and/or evening. The American Pregnancy Association says more than half of all pregnant women experience the nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness. Nausea is associated with the increasing levels of hormones in the body. Many doctors are happy when women report morning sickness because it is an indication that the placenta in the womb is developing well. Eating smaller meals and nibbling on bland crackers before rising from bed can alleviate some symptoms of morning sickness. Try to remain hydrated, especially if you are plagued with bouts of vomiting. Sipping water or even flat ginger ale throughout the day may settle the stomach. If morning sickness becomes severe and results in considerable weight loss, consult your doctor.
The physicians at New Beginnings Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare in Conyers provide a supportive, nurturing and welcoming environment, while promoting health awareness and education. For an appointment, call 678-413-0858.
New VisioNs...New HorizoNs...
• Adult & Adolescent Gynecology • Normal & High Risk Obsterical Care • Contraceptive Management
New Beginnings For all your women’s healthcare needs!
• Management of Fibroids • Robotic Laparoscopic Surgery • Gynecological Surgery • Disorders of the Cervix • Family Planning • Ultrasound • In-Office Essure Tubal Ligation and Endometrial Ablation • Infertility • Menopause Management • Hysterosonogram
day Call Us To le To Schedu ! Your V isit
Veronica Garrett M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
1415 Milstead Road, Suite A • Conyers, GA 30012
678-413-0858 ~ Se habla espanol
naomi Harris M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
sHannon mayfield
Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare at It’s Best!
we accept most major health plans ~ call today for an appointment! 22 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2015
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HRT...Not Just For Women
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Lee Udell
hanks to hormone replacement therapy (HRT), men no longer need to accept the symptoms of low testosterone levels as a “part of aging.” Low T, as it’s commonly called, can negatively impact your health, your ability to perform at work, your relationships with friends and family, and — most importantly — how you enjoy your life. HRT can help you get your hormones — and your whole life — back in balance. Low levels of testosterone have been associated with metabolic syndrome — a cluster of factors such as abnormal cholesterol and high blood pressure that boost risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. What’s more, many men experience fatigue, foggy thinking, depression, decreased libido, and an inability to gain muscle mass or lose weight. Men typically begin a gradual drop in hormone production around age 30 and lose approximately one to two percent a year until sometime between 40 and 55 years of age. At this point, testosterone levels fall sharply and signify the beginning of andropause, the male version of menopause. It’s estimated that 1 in 4 men past the age of 30 has low testosterone levels, making this one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in men. One of the most successful treatments for low T is called SottoPelle® Therapy. This pellet therapy incorporates many features that other HRT methods lack — even other pellet therapies. Precision pellet insertion, accurate pellet dosing, and meticulous hormone compounding ensure reliable, consistent and safe dosage
of testosterone. The physician places low-dose pellet implants, about the size of a Tic Tac®, under the skin in the hip area. Blood flow over the pellets begins to release just the right amount testosterone into the blood stream. This allows the pellets to easily maintain consistent blood levels. Unlike other hormone replacement methods, release of more testosterone into the blood stream takes place whenever needed. This happens, for instance, during exercise or periods of stress. The ability to accurately dose and achieve and maintain proper blood levels is what sets SottoPelle apart from other types of HRT. It’s also the reason this unique HRT works so well for so many men. Other advantages of SottoPelle Therapy include: 1) Appropriate testing and proper analysis 2) The use of high-quality bio-identical pellets 3) Employing a web-based application for consistently accurate dosing 4) Following a specialized pellet insertion procedure So, if you thought hormone replacement therapy was for women only, think again. Want more information about SottoPelle HRT? Dr. Veronica Garrett in Conyers is specially trained to administer SollePelle Therapy and can be reached at (678) 413-0858.
Exclusively being provided by Veronica Garrett M.D. 1415 Milstead Road N.E., Suite B Conyers, GA 30012 Call Today (770) 918-1619 SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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What is
Actinic Keratosis? S
kin cancer is the most prevalent of all types of cancer, and early detection is the surest way to a cure. Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans is diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime? A dermatology expert can diagnose precancerous skin conditions, such as actinic keratoses, which, if caught early, can be removed or treated to prevent them from becoming skin cancers. An actinic keratosis is a scaly or crusty growth that grows on the skin. It most often appears on the scalp, face, ears, lips, backs of the hands, forearms, shoulders, neck or any other areas of the body frequently exposed to the sun. You will often see the plural term, “keratosis,� because there is seldom just one. In the beginning, actinic keratosis are frequently so small that they are recognized by touch rather than sight. It feels as if you were running a finger over sandpaper. Patients may have many times more invisible lesions than those appearing on the surface. Most often, actinic keratosis develop slowly
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and reach a size from an eighth to a quarter of an inch. Early on, they may disappear only to reappear later. Most become red, but some will be light or dark tan, pink, red, a combination of these, or the same color as your skin. Occasionally, they itch or produce a pricking or tender sensation. They can also become inflamed and surrounded by redness. In rare instances, actinic keratoses can even bleed. If you have actinic keratoses, it indicates that you have sustained sun damage that could develop into skin cancer. Our experienced dermatologists, Dr. John Fountain, Dr. Darryl Hodson & Dr. Allen Filstein, identify, diagnose, and treat all types of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinomas and malignant melanoma) on a daily basis. Georgia Dermatology is conveniently located behind Rockdale Hospital at 1349 Milstead Road or by phone at 770-785-7546. For more information, visit us at GaDerm.com. We look forward to being your dermatology provider.
SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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When Summer Fun Results in an Injury
Seek Evaluation with an Orthopedic Doctor
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ummer is in full swing with kids and adults spending a lot more time outdoors engaged in sports and physical activities such as playing, jumping, swimming, climbing, running and more! Likewise, athletic programs are busy practicing in preparation for the fall season. When activities are hindered with an injury or a pain, Dr. Reneé Riley and Dr. Ryan Tomlins, both orthopedic physicians, are here to help. These world class physicians are fellowship trained at the highly acclaimed American Sports Medicine Institute founded by Dr. James R. Andrews. Now Offering Extended Office Hours Every Tuesday Evening In order to accommodate patients unable to schedule appointments during the day due to work or school, Dr. Riley offers extended office hours every Tuesday. Appointments will be available until 7:30 pm. Normal office hours are from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
MEET THE DOCTORS! Reneé S. Riley, MD, FAAOS Dr. Reneé Riley has extensive training in athletic and sports-related injuries in adults and children. As a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon, she has a particular expertise and interest in knee, shoulder and elbow injuries. Dr. Riley is experienced in arthroscopic procedures, total joint replacements, and surgical and non-surgical procedures for broken bones. Ryan J. Tomlins, MD, CAQ Dr. Ryan Tomlins specializes in general orthopedic care and the non-surgical treatment of athletic and sportsrelated injuries. Dr. Tomlins is certified in Tenex Health TX™ therapy, which treats diseased soft tissue and rapidly restores musculoskeletal function. He is the director of the Concussion Program for Newton County School System and certified to treat golf injuries by the Titleist Performance Institute.
Orthopedic doctors treat a variety of problems using diagnostic tests to help identify the specific nature of a musculoskeletal injury or condition. Using the results of these tests in conjunction with a physical examination, orthopedists plan an appropriate course of treatment. If you have any signs or symptoms of an orthopedic disorder or injury, schedule an appointment for an evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further injury and complications. Seek evaluation from an orthopedic doctor for: Signs and symptoms of orthopedic disorders: • Muscle pain • Bone pain • Limited movement • Pain on movement • Joint pain • Joint swelling • Joint inflammation • Poor mobility • Joint deformity • Joint dysfunction All sports related injuries including: • Sports concussions and return to play protocol • Sprains, strains and other soft tissue injuries • Fractures and dislocations
Parts of the body: • Shoulder & Elbow • Hand & Wrist • Hip & Thigh • Knee & Lower Leg • Foot & Ankle • Neck & Back Common diagnoses: • Arthritis • Carpal tunnel syndrome • Nerve compression syndromes • Tendinitis • Tennis elbow also called lateral epicondylitis • Cysts • ACL or meniscus tear • Shoulder impingement / rotator cuff tear
• Bursitis • Frozen shoulder • Impingement syndrome • Stress fracture Treatments: • Arthroscopic surgery: a form of minimally invasive surgery in which a fiberoptic camera, the arthroscope, is introduced into an area of the body through a small incision • Casts and splints • Rotator cuff and shoulder repair • Ligament (ACL) and knee repair • Total joint replacement • Rehabilitation • Tenex Health TX™
Call 770-788-6534 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Riley or Dr. Tomlins
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SportS Medicine Reneé S. Riley, MD, FAAOS Ryan J. Tomlins, MD, CAQ
Pavilion 4181 Hospital Drive NE, Physicians’ Suite 204, Covington, GA 30014 | 770.788.6534 4181 Hospital Drive, Suite 204 in Covington, Georgia
Extended office hours every Tuesday until 7:30 pm SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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ay D e Sam ments int e o p p A labl i a v A
NEW LOCATION IN CONYERS!
1292 Wellbrook Circle, Suite A, Conyers GA 30012
Homayoun S. Amin, MD, FACC
Rajasekhar Reddy, MD, FACC
Gregory Petro, MD, FACC
DIAGNOSTIC CARDIOLOGY • • • • • • •
Consultative Cardiology Echocardiography Nuclear Cardiology Cardiac Catheterization and Angiography Electrophysiology Studies EKG & Stress Testing Vascular Ultrasound Testing
• • • • •
Transesophageal Echocardiography Holter and Event Monitoring Peripheral Vascular Ultrasound and Angiography CT Angiography Sleep Studies
Conyers Location:
1292 Wellbrook Circle, Suite A Conyers, GA 30012
Camille Nelson, MD, FACC
• • • • • • • • •
Pritman R. Polkampally, MD, FACC, FSCAI
VASCULAR SERVICES
Peripheral Vascular Angiogram Peripheral Vascular Angioplasty and Stenting Carotid Artery Endarterectomy Peripheral Vascular Bypass Surgery Permacatheter Removal Sclerotherapy-Varicose Veins Hemodialysis Graft Imaging and Placement Wound care Arterial Brachial Indices (ABI’s)
Stockbridge Location: 350 Country Club Drive, Suite A Stockbridge, GA 30281
770-692-4000 770-785-6317 Visit Our Website For The Location Nearest You Jackson
Locust Grove
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Riverdale
Camp Creek
Griffin
www.atlantaheartassociates.com
East Point
Fayetteville
12 Heart Symptoms
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Never to Ignore
Here Are a Dozen Symptoms That May Signal Heart Trouble. 1. Anxiety. Heart attack can cause intense anxiety or a fear of death. Heart attack survivors often talk about having experienced a sense of “impending doom.” 2. Chest discomfort. Pain in the chest is the classic symptom of heart attack, and “the No. 1 symptom that we typically look for,” says Jean C. McSweeney, PhD, RN, associate dean for research at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Nursing in Little Rock and a pioneer in research on heart symptoms in women. But not all heart attacks cause chest pain, and chest pain can stem from ailments that have nothing to do with the heart. Heart-related chest pain is often centered under the breastbone, perhaps a little to the left of center. The pain has been likened to “an elephant sitting on the chest,” but it can also be an uncomfortable sensation of pressure, squeezing, or fullness. “It’s not unusual for women to describe the pain as a minor ache,” McSweeney says. “Some women say the pain wasn’t bad enough even to take a Tylenol.” 3. Cough. Persistent coughing or wheezing can be a symptom of heart failure — a result of fluid accumulation in the lungs. In some cases, people with heart failure cough up bloody phlegm. 4. Dizziness. Heart attacks can cause lightheadedness and loss of consciousness. So can potentially dangerous heart rhythm abnormalities known as arrhythmias. 5. Fatigue. Especially among women, unusual fatigue can occur during a heart attack as well as in the days and weeks leading up to one. And feeling tired all the time may be a symptom of heart failure. Of course, you can also feel tired or fatigued for other reasons. How can you tell heart-related fatigue from other types of fatigue? “If you don’t feel well and all the wind is knocked out of your sails, don’t try to figure it out on the Internet or from a book,” says Goldberg. “Wasting time is dangerous.” 6. Nausea or lack of appetite. It’s not uncommon
for people to feel sick to their stomach or throw up during a heart attack. And abdominal swelling associated with heart failure can interfere with appetite. 7. Pain in other parts of the body. In many heart attacks, pain begins in the chest and spreads to the shoulders, arms, elbows, back, neck, jaw, or abdomen. But sometimes there is no chest pain — just pain in these other body areas like one or both arms, or between the shoulders. The pain might come and go. 8. Rapid or irregular pulse. Doctors say that there’s usually nothing worrisome about an occasional skipped heartbeat. But a rapid or irregular pulse — especially when accompanied by weakness, dizziness, or shortness of breath — can be evidence of a heart attack, heart failure, or an arrhythmia. Left untreated, some arrhythmias can lead tostroke, heart failure, or sudden death. 9. Shortness of breath. People who feel winded at rest or with minimal exertion might have a pulmonary condition like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). But breathlessness could also indicate a heart attack or heart failure. “Sometimes people having a heart attack don’t have chest pressure or pain but feel extremely short of breath,” Goldberg says. “It’s like they’ve just run a marathon when they haven’t even moved.” During a heart attack, shortness of breath often accompanies chest discomfort, but it can also occur before or without chest discomfort. 10. Sweating. Breaking out in a cold sweat is a common symptom of heart attack. “You might just be sitting in a chair when all of a sudden you are really sweating like you had just worked out,” Frid says. 11. Swelling. Heart failure can cause fluid to accumulate in the body. This can cause swelling (often in the feet, ankles, legs, or abdomen) as well as sudden weight gain and sometimes a loss of appetite. 12. Weakness. In the days leading up to a heart attack, as well as during one, some people experience severe, unexplained weakness. “One woman told me it felt like she couldn’t hold a piece of paper between her fingers,” McSweeney says.
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All About Peripheral Artery Disease
ike the blood vessels of the heart (coronary arteries), your peripheral arteries (blood vessels outside your heart) may also develop atherosclerosis – a build-up of fat and cholesterol deposits, called plaque, on the outside walls. Over time, this build-up narrows the artery, and eventually the narrowed artery allows less blood to flow. The result? A condition called “ischemia,” which means you have inadequate blood flow to the body’s tissues. And that
can lead to tissue damage – or even death. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can build up over a lifetime, and the symptoms may not become obvious until later in life. For many people, the outward symptoms won’t appear until the artery has narrowed by 60% or more. And because arteries carry blood throughout your entire body, blockages can occur anywhere, leading to a wide array of possible symptoms.
• A blockage in the coronary arteries can cause symptoms of chest pain (angina) or a heart attack. • A blockage in the carotid arteries (the arteries supplying the brain) can lead to a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. • A blockage in the legs can lead to leg pain or cramps with activity (a condition called claudication), changes in skin color, sores or ulcers, and feeling tired in the legs. Total loss of circulation can lead to gangrene and loss of a limb. • A blockage in the renal arteries (arteries supplying the kidneys) can cause renal artery disease (stenosis). The symptoms include uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure, and abnormal kidney function. Often, you can successfully treat peripheral artery disease by quitting tobacco, exercising and eating a healthy diet. If you suspect PAD, see a physician as soon as possible, for testing and diagnosis. Dr. Davies at Rockdale Vascular Associates is committed to education and treatment of PAD, so call his office at 678-609-4927 for an appointment today.
OUR SPECIALTIES: - Peripheral Artery Disease - Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair - Peripheral (Legs) Arterial Angioplasty/Stenting - Varicose and Spider Vein Treatment - Carotid Artery Repair - Pacemaker Placement - Dialysis Access - DVT Treatment
ROBERT DAVIES, MD
ERIKKA MANN, PA
1301 Sigman Road, Suite 130, Conyers, GA 30012
678-609-4927
Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center
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ome 70 million adults in the United States are affected by hypertension. The condition also affects about two million teens and children. According to a report issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in September 2012, over half of all Americans with hypertension do not have their high blood pressure under control. Your risk for high blood pressure can be affected by many factors. Your age, race and genes are all things you can’t control. But you can control high blood pressure. Start by being informed about your risk factors. High blood pressure often shows no signs or symptoms. That’s why it’s important to know what your risks are and to learn which factors you can and can’t control. Some risk factors — like age, gender, race or ethnicity — may cause you to be more at risk for the disease than others. Remember, having risk factors does not mean you are destined to have the disease. Some are in your control — like being active, eating healthy, not smoking, managing stress and other factors. RISK FACTORS YOU CAN CONTROL • Overweight and obese • Salt and sodium in your diet • Lack of potassium in your diet • Physical inactivity • Tobacco use • Alcohol • Stress • Certain chronic conditions
RISK FACTORS YOU CAN’T CONTROL • Age: The older you get, the greater your risk for high blood pressure. • Gender: Until age 45, more men than women get high blood pressure. After age 65, more women than men have high blood pressure. • Race and ethnicity: Certain races and ethnicities, African-Americans and Puerto Rican-Americans, have higher rates of high blood pressure.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
Dr. Trinidad Osselyn
Dr. Wiley-Adams
• Hypertension • Diabetes • High Cholesterol • Physicals • Asthma • Emphysema • Thyroid • Women’s Health and more
INTERNAL MEDICINE ASSOCIATES OF ROCKDALE Marshall Almand, MD, Elizabeth de Give, MD, James de Give, MD, John Entrekin, MD Debora Goodrich, DO, Trinidad Osselyn, MD, Jack Sorg, MD, Mary Stephens, MD, Sabrina Wylie-Adams, MD, and Jason Anderson, PA
1301 Wellbrook Circle, Conyers, GA 30012 770-922-3023
John Hyland, MD, Virginia Hyland, MD, Grace Loy, MD
2800 Highway 138 SW Conyers, Georgia 30094 770-602-2970
IMAR
Internal Medicine Associates Of Rockdale, P.C.
Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center
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Ready to Make a Cancer Fighting Grocery List? 8 Delicious Ways to Boost Cancer Protection By Kathleen Lambert, M.D.
T
here’s no magic food that prevents cancer outright, but there are certain foods known to inhibit our risk and help our bodies fight this horrible disease. Do you want to amp up cancer protection in your diet? Here are eight specific foods to get you in the right direction:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Broccoli. Packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals, including sulforophane. “Sulforophane is proposed to stimulate enzymes that help detoxify potential carcinogens,” says Colleen Doyle, MS, RD, of the American Cancer Society. Other cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and kale are also rich in sulforophane. Salmon. Coldwater fish such as salmon have high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. The highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids are found in free-range wild game and the colder the temperature where they are found, the higher the omega-3 levels will be. Other cold water fish include char, sardines, tuna, herring, anchovies, bluefish and halibut. Carrots. High in beta carotene, which helps plants absorb light. Beta carotene accumulates in the fat under the skin and seems to absorb some of the radiation energy from sunlight, possibly reducing the risk of skin cancer. Squash, pumpkin and green, leafy vegetables are other sources of beta carotene. Walnuts. High in omega-3 fatty acids walnuts have 2.5 grams of omega-3 fat per ounce, while most other nuts have around 0.5 grams per ounce. Aim for 5 ounces of walnuts a week. Flax. Rich in fiber and omega-3 fats. Flax contains compounds called lignans, which help inhibit estrogen production and may reduce the risk of breast cancer and other female cancers. Grind a tablespoon or two of flaxseeds in a coffee grinder and mix it into cereal or a smoothie, or include it when baking bread or cookies. Tomatoes. High in antioxidants and the phytochemical lycopene. Lycopene can prevent cellular damage and abnormal cell replication and growth. Lycopene is best absorbed in cooked tomato products. In a Harvard study, men who ate two or more servings a week of tomato sauce or other cooked tomato products had a 20 percent less chance of developing prostate cancer. Lycopene may also reduce breast cancer risk and is found in red grapefruit and watermelon as well as tomatoes. Onions. Along with garlic, onions contain the phytochemical allicin. Allicin acts as an antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial agent and may zap toxins related to cancer development. Blueberries. High in ellagic acid, a phenolic compound. Phenolics are a category of phytochemicals that protect cells from free radical damage, Doyle says. Other sources are red grapes, raspberries, strawberries and blackberries. Berries are also a powerful antioxidant.
Dr. Kathleen Lambert is a board-certified hematologist and oncologist with Georgia Cancer Specialists, affiliated with Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, in Conyers and Decatur. For more information, visit gacancer.com or northside.com. 32 HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE | SUMMER 2015
THE CANCER ANSWER
TM
IN YOUR HOMETOWN
Georgia Cancer Specialists is a national leader in advanced cancer treatment and research. The Cancer Answer® is patient-focused care anchored by prevention, early detection, advanced treatment, clinical research and compassionate caregivers.
Kathleen Lambert, MD
•
Sherine Thomas, MD
1501 Milstead Road, Suite 110 Conyers, GA 30012 (770) 760-9949
gacancer.com
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Constipation About Constipation Constipation is a condition characterized by infrequent or hard bowel movements, or difficulty in having bowel movements. Also known as irregularity, constipation can include pain when having a bowel movement, an inability to “go” after trying for more than ten minutes or having no bowel movement after more than three days. Everyone’s habits and patterns are different, so what is considered “normal” varies from person to person. Some healthy people may not have a bowel movement every day; others might have particularly soft or hard stools but have no problems passing them.
Frequently Asked Questions about Constipation Q. What causes constipation? A. Constipation is usually caused by not eating enough fiber or drinking enough water, lack of physical activity, or delaying going to the bathroom when you feel the urge. Stress, travel or other changes in your routine can also interfere with normal bowel function. Bowel diseases, like irritable bowel syndrome, pelvic floor dysfunction, certain medications, pregnancy, neurological diseases, mental health problems or conditions such as an underactive thyroid or cystic fibrosis, can also be contributing factors. Q. What can I do to prevent constipation? A. Drink plenty of fluids, eat a high-fiber diet, get regular exercise
and don’t wait when you feel the urge to have a bowel movement. If you are in wheelchair, unable to get out of bed or can’t exercise for other reasons, change your position often and do abdominal exercises and leg raises, if possible. Q. What can I do if I have constipation? A. There are a number of different remedies you can try: stool softeners with docusate sodium, bulk laxatives, like psyllium, or suppositories or gentle laxatives, like mineral oil or milk of magnesia. Be careful if you choose laxatives, since over long periods of time you can become dependent on them. Q. What about enemas? A. Enemas should only be used in severe cases. Q. Are there any situations when I shouldn’t treat constipation myself? A. Sudden constipation with abdominal cramps and an inability to pass gas or stool can indicate an intestinal blockage, which is very serious. In this situation, do not take any laxatives and call your doctor right away. Although not as severe as a blockage, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible if you have severe abdominal pain and bloating, blood in your stool, constipation alternating with diarrhea, thin pencil-like stools, rectal pain, unexplained weight loss or have been using laxatives or other home treatments for several weeks and getting no results.
Specialists in the Detection and Treatment of Digestive Diseases, Hepatitis and Colon Cancer
Almost every adult will suffer from digestive issues during their lifetime. Whether it's a touch of indigestion or abdominal pain that won’t subside, you deserve the best possible care. The specialists at Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates are experts in colon cancer screenings and evaluating and treating every type of digestive disorder, including: • Crohn’s Disease | UC • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Acid Reflux | Ulcers
• Liver Disease • Hiatal Hernias • Diarrhea
• Hepatitis • Intestinal Polyps • Constipation
• Barrett’s Esophagus • Heartburn • Hemorrhoids
With our convenient location in Conyers, getting the care you need has never been easier.
1501 Milstead Road Suite 120 Conyers, Georgia 30012
New Suite
Appointments Available Monday - Friday
678.745.3033
www.atlantagastro.com 1.866.GO.TO.AGA [468.6242] Barry Levitt, M.D.
Mahmoud B. Barrie, M.D.
David Rabin, M.D. AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.
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Comprehensive Care,
Close to Home
iedmont Physicians are conveniently located P throughout Henry County to serve the community. Our primary care physicians are dedicated to delivering
the highest quality healthcare that’s also convenient for you with same day appointments available. We specialize in: • Well Visits • Annual Exams • Sick Visits • Sports Physicals • Vaccinations and Immunizations • Kids, Teens and Adults welcome McDonough — Jim W. Latimer, M.D. earned his medical degree from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville and completed his family practice residency training at the McLennan County Medical Education and Research Foundation in Texas. He takes great pleasure in building a rapport with patients, and believes that healing is facilitated by showing genuine interest and compassion to his patients. Locust Grove — Dr. Charmille Hare received her undergraduate degree from Morris Brown College in Atlanta and then went on to graduate from the
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. As a family physician, she enjoys caring for patients of all ages and believes in collaborating with the patient to help them reach their best health and to prevent disease. Stockbridge — Omotayo Akinmade, M.D. received his medical degree from the University of Lagos, Nigeria and completed his post graduate training and residency at the State University of New York Health Science Center, Department of Family Medicine. His focus includes preventive medicine and the treatment of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Dr Akinmade believes that his patients are vital parts of the healthcare team and emphasizes the patient-centered model in which the patient-provider relationship is critical for success.
When it comes to enhancing your overall health, getting better starts here. EXPERT HEART CARE. SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS. At Piedmont Heart of Rockdale we’re pleased to offer same day appointments. You can see a Piedmont Heart physician when it fits your schedule. It’s the expert cardiac care and answers you need – so you can get on the road to feeling better.
To schedule an appointment, call 770.483.9330
Piedmont Heart at Rockdale 1301 Sigman Road, NE • Suite 200 Conyers, Georgia 30012
John Hennecken, M.D. Cardiology
Atul Trivedi, M.D. Interventional Cardiology
Syed Shirazi, M.D. Cardiology
piedmontheart.org ©2015 Piedmont Healthcare 04279-0215
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REDUCE YOUR
Lee Udell
Risk of Sunburn
t seems like every spring the news media start reporting about fears surrounding ingredients in sunscreens. Whether there’s evidence to support the claims is dubious, at best. In fact, a comprehensive review of all studies from 1966 to 2003 found no evidence that sunscreen increases risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. What we do know — and what’s been clearly proven over and over by research — is that about 90% of all skin cancers are associated with exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. UV-B rays penetrate only the epidermis (the outer most layer of the skin) and increase your risk of cancer by direct photochemical damage to your DNA, resulting in mutations in your genes. These mutations contribute to wrinkling and aging of the skin by degrading elastin and collagen. UV-A rays penetrate deeper into the dermis (the second major layer of the skin) and can contribute to the development of cancer by increasing reactive oxygen species, which can, in turn, damage your DNA. With more than 2 million Americans developing skin cancer each year — and the rate of melanoma steadily on the rise — it’s even more critical to be sure you understand how to protect yourself and your family against harmful UV rays. A groundbreaking study of 1,621 Australians published in 2013 found that sun-savvy Aussies reduced their risk of melanoma by 50-73%, simply through daily, year-round use of a SPF 15 sunscreen, wearing hats and avoiding the sun in other ways. So what can you do to reduce your risk of sunburn — and your risk of skin cancer that can follow from overexposure? • Apply one ounce of sunscreen (minimum of 25 SPF) to the entire body 30 minutes prior to going outside, and reapply every two hours outdoors or immediately after swimming or sweating heavily. • Opt for a sunscreen that blocks both UV-A and UV-B rays. • Don’t use sunscreen as a tool to prolong your time in the sun. • Cover up! Hats, shirts and sunglasses are the best protection.
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• Don’t use a tanning bed or sunbathe. • Protect kids! Early life sunburns are worse, so keep little ones out of the hot sun. • Get vitamin D. There’s speculation but not proof that adequate levels of vitamin D can reduce the risk of melanoma. But we know that vitamin D is good for combating other types of cancer. • Examine your skin. Check your skin regularly for new moles that are tender or growing. See a dermatologist regularly or if you detect unusual moles. The physicians at Dermatology Consultants in Covington can provide dermatologic care for your entire family, including skin cancer prevention and education. Call 770-784-0343 today for an appointment.
Fact or Fiction?
• Does a form of vitamin A in sunscreen cause cancer? Retinyl pamitate, a natural form of vitamin A stored in your skin and approved globally for use in sunscreens, provides multiple benefits, from neutralizing free radicals to reducing the risk of sunburn. One single, non-peerreviewed study claimed it increases skin cancer risk, but the Skin Cancer Foundation and Memorial SloanKettering Cancer Center have both spoken out to state that this study failed to demonstrate any convincing evidence that retinyl palmitate imparts any increased risk of skin cancer. • Is oxybenzone in sunscreen absorbed, and does it affect hormone levels? This ingredient, present in sunscreens since the early 1980s, has been shown to absorb into skin. However, a 2004 study showed no significant hormone disruption as a result, because it is excreted and doesn’t accumulate in the body. The 2001 study that raised alarm was based on feeding the ingredient to rats at astronomically high doses.
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FIONA O. ZWALD MD
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MICHELLE L. JUNEAU MD
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Call us today to schedule your consultation 4151 Hospital Drive Covington, GA 30014 770-784-0343
dermatologyconsultants.org SUMMER 2015 | HEALTHY IN ROCKDALE
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What is MRKH (Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser) Syndrome? Lee Udell
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p to half a million women in the U.S. are born with anomalies of the urinary and reproductive system. In females, thousands of these mullerian anomalies, including the absence of a vagina, may not be discovered until the girl reaches puberty. One such abnormality, MRKH (Mayer-RokitanskyKüster-Hauser) syndrome — characterized by absence of the vagina, cervix and uterus — affects as many as one in every 5,000 women. Adolescent girls with MRKH syndrome may complain that they haven’t begun menstruation, labeled primary amenorrhea. In some cases, female patients have discovered their anomaly after inability to have intercourse because of an absent vagina. For many, multiple painful attempts of intercourse have led to distortion of existing external genital structures and scarring of the area, as well as chronic pelvic pain. Dr. Thomas L. Lyons, of Advanced Gynecology Associates, is a world-renowned surgical pioneer and one of the very few physicians to successfully treat MRKH. “We’ve treated about 25 patients over the last several years,” says Dr. Lyons, “and they’ve all done marvelously.” Techniques for correction of MRKH have traditionally involved use of segments of the rectum, sigmoid colon or small intestine, as well as skin grafts, to create a vaginal structure for patients. However, these techniques are often painful — and less than successful. “I remember waking up in the recovery room screaming in pain,” said one patient of her sixhour surgery, followed by a month’s recuperation. “Eventually, when all of my possibilities had run out, I found Dr. Lyons online. My surgery with Dr. Lyons went great — little scars and very little pain.” At her first post-operative check-up, she says, “I was never so happy!”
Dr. Lyons uses a laparoscopic procedure to create a neovagina from the pelvic peritoneum, a minimally invasive technique which requires only tiny incisions and is performed in less than an hour. The procedure allows achievement of adequate functional vaginal length and elasticity, and the peritoneal epithelium (cellular layer that lines the walls of the abdominal cavity) converts into normal vaginal epithelium within three months after surgery. “Post-surgical biopsy comes back as vaginal tissue,” says Dr. Lyons, “so we see that the peritoneum has actually morphed into vagina tissue.” More than 1,000 of these laparoscopic procedures have been performed worldwide, proving their efficacy. This minimally invasive technique is far easier on the patient than the widely used and significantly invasive MacIndoe split thickness skin graft procedure, which can be horribly painful and involve a lengthy recovery of several months. “Surgery with Dr. Lyons went smoothly, and I now have some normalcy in my life,” says a patient of Dr. Lyons’. “He helped restore me physically, as well as emotionally. Dr. Lyons will always hold a special place in my heart, because he did what no one else could.” One patient in her mid-thirties underwent the procedure in February 2008 and married the following April. Viewing her normal ovaries via her new vagina on ultrasound, Dr. Lyons believes she’ll be able to have her own eggs harvested for use in a surrogate pregnancy, and ultimately she’ll experience the birth of her own genetic children. “It’s a really joyous moment to see the happy looks on my patients’ faces when we discover how well these possibilities are coming together,” says Dr. Lyons.
Dr. Lyons has recently joined the other physicians at Advanced Gynecology Associates to offer a full range of gynecology, surgical and preventative health services for all women, from initial exam through menopause and beyond. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 678-609-4913.
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1380 Milstead Avenue NE, Suite E, Conyers, GA 30012
678-609-4913
DR. THOMAS L. LYONS PIONEER IN GYNECOLOGIC SURGERY
Providing care for problems including: • Endometriosis • MRKH (Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser) Syndrome • Ovarian cysts or masses • Urinary stress incontinence or loss of bladder control, in addition to other pelvic relaxation problems • Pelvic Inflammatory diseases (P.I.D.) • Uterine fibroids or benign fibroid tumors • Ovarian or uterine cancer • Infertility or reproductive disorders • Adhesive Diseases • Developed Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy
Globally renowned gynecologic surgeon, Thomas L. Lyons, MD, now with Advanced Gynecology Associates.
You may email Dr. Lyons directly at cwcrs@mindspring.com For Further information on Dr. Lyons, please visit his web-site, www.thomasllyons.com
ADVANCED GYNECOLOGY ASSOCIATES Holly Imlach, MD Gynecology & Gynecologic Surgery
1380 Milstead Avenue NE, Suite E, Conyers, GA 30012
678-609-4913
We seek to provide the highest level of patient care through our state-of-the-art technologies. www.advgynassoc.com
Erin Mayfield, DO Gynecology
5154 Cook Street Northeast, Covington
770-788-1778
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