Healthy in Newton Summer 2014

Summer 2014

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

IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 1

6/12/2014 1:48:26 PM

from the PUBLISHER

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

To a Healthy Community

rockdalemedicalcenter.org

“Award-winning hospital… right here at home.”

RENOVATED AND EXPANDED to a 20-Bed Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

IN NEWTON VOLUME 1, NO. 1, SUMMER 2014

ou are about to open a magazine on health that has been produced as a labor of

X

love by the staff at The Covington News and the medical practices in our area.

Publisher: T. Pat Cavanaugh

Y

It is the intention of the local medical community and the businesses that support them to provide you with information that will assist you and your family with health decisions. We would like to thank the physicians, hospitals and their staff for their cooperation in producing the magazine. We plan to produce this magazine quarterly in Newton County focusing on health and wellness. We hope you enjoy each issue and are

Editor: Michelle Kim Comptroller: Debbie Thompson Sales Director: Annette Godwin Graphics Manager/Layout Design: Carin DeBoer Photography: Darrell Everidge

healthier as a result of reading it.

Contributing Writers: Richard P. James, Jr., MD; Cathy T. Larrimore, MD; staff reports

T. Pat Cavanaugh, Publisher

X SUBMISSIONS

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

NAMED TO GEORGIA HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION CORE MEASURE HONOR ROLL: Trustee Category

X ADVERTISING

AWARDED ACCREDITATION BY THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF RADIOLOGY in Mammography, MRI, Stereotactic Breast Biopsy, CT and Ultrasound.

ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY ACCREDITATION for second time.

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED as one of only 3 hospitals in the Greater Atlanta area by The Joint Commission as a Top Performer in Quality Measures for Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Pneumonia and Surgical Care.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION BY CONSUMER REPORTS for Outstanding Surgical Safety Outcomes.

AWARDED ADVANCED CERTIFICATION for Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission

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

X

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

the NEWS Serving Rockdale County and Conyers

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 2-3

6/11/2014 8:32:50 AM

from the PUBLISHER

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

To a Healthy Community

rockdalemedicalcenter.org

“Award-winning hospital… right here at home.”

RENOVATED AND EXPANDED to a 20-Bed Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

IN NEWTON VOLUME 1, NO. 1, SUMMER 2014

ou are about to open a magazine on health that has been produced as a labor of

X

love by the staff at The Covington News and the medical practices in our area.

Publisher: T. Pat Cavanaugh

Y

It is the intention of the local medical community and the businesses that support them to provide you with information that will assist you and your family with health decisions. We would like to thank the physicians, hospitals and their staff for their cooperation in producing the magazine. We plan to produce this magazine quarterly in Newton County focusing on health and wellness. We hope you enjoy each issue and are

Editor: Michelle Kim Comptroller: Debbie Thompson Sales Director: Annette Godwin Graphics Manager/Layout Design: Carin DeBoer Photography: Darrell Everidge

healthier as a result of reading it.

Contributing Writers: Richard P. James, Jr., MD; Cathy T. Larrimore, MD; staff reports

T. Pat Cavanaugh, Publisher

X SUBMISSIONS

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

NAMED TO GEORGIA HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION CORE MEASURE HONOR ROLL: Trustee Category

X ADVERTISING

AWARDED ACCREDITATION BY THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF RADIOLOGY in Mammography, MRI, Stereotactic Breast Biopsy, CT and Ultrasound.

ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY ACCREDITATION for second time.

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED as one of only 3 hospitals in the Greater Atlanta area by The Joint Commission as a Top Performer in Quality Measures for Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Pneumonia and Surgical Care.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION BY CONSUMER REPORTS for Outstanding Surgical Safety Outcomes.

AWARDED ADVANCED CERTIFICATION for Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission

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

X

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

the NEWS Serving Rockdale County and Conyers

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 2-3

6/11/2014 8:32:50 AM

Summer 2014

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

 HEALTHY IN NEW TON • SUMMER 2014 • VOLUME 1, NO. 1 

IN NEWTON

CONTENTS 14

ABOUT THE COVER Wyatt Hatcher's mother Jessica, sees her dream for screening all babies for dangerous heart defects become a reality.

See story on page 18.

PHOTOGRAPH BY DARRELL EVERIDGE

38

6 6

Features 8

SETTING SLEEP RULES FOR TEENAGERS

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 4-5

12

HOW TO ENCOURAGE KIDS TO BE MORE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE

16

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR CHILD'S SKIN THIS SUMMER

25

WHEN MINUTES COUNT Rockdale Medical earns stroke treatment center certification

27

28

MELLOW ON THE YELLOW Summer Paddle Series

6/12/2014 1:48:06 PM

Summer 2014

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

 HEALTHY IN NEW TON • SUMMER 2014 • VOLUME 1, NO. 1 

IN NEWTON

CONTENTS 14

ABOUT THE COVER Wyatt Hatcher's mother Jessica, sees her dream for screening all babies for dangerous heart defects become a reality.

See story on page 18.

PHOTOGRAPH BY DARRELL EVERIDGE

38

6 6

Features 8

SETTING SLEEP RULES FOR TEENAGERS

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 4-5

12

HOW TO ENCOURAGE KIDS TO BE MORE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE

16

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR CHILD'S SKIN THIS SUMMER

25

WHEN MINUTES COUNT Rockdale Medical earns stroke treatment center certification

27

28

MELLOW ON THE YELLOW Summer Paddle Series

6/12/2014 1:48:06 PM

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke pose

significant threat

S

ummer is a season best spent outdoors, and many people anxiously await their opportunity to soak up some sun in the warm, summer air. But the summer heat can be relentless, posing a potentially significant threat to those who aren't careful when the dog days of summer arrive.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two of the biggest concerns for those spending time under the summer sun. Differentiating between the two and understanding the causes and symptoms of each can help revelers survive the summer heat.

What do I do if I suspect I am suffering from heat exhaustion?

If heat exhaustion is suspected, get out of the heat immediately, ideally into an air-conditioned room but under a tree in the shade if that's the only option. Call a doctor if you cannot keep fluids down or if you seem incoherent.

Those who can keep fluids down should drink plenty of noncaffeinated and nonalcoholic beverages, and remove any tight or unnecessary clothing.

In addition, take a cool shower or bath, but ideally only do so if someone is around to monitor you.

What should I do if I suspect I am suffering from heat stroke?

Heat stroke is potentially life-threatening, so immediately dial 911 if you feel you have heat stroke. If you suspect someone else has heat stroke, administer some first aid while waiting for an ambulance to arrive. Move the person to an air-conditioned room, and try to get his or her body temperature down to a more manageable 101 degree or 102 degree. Wet the person's skin and apply ice packs to the armpits, groin, neck, and back, as these areas have an abundance of blood vessels close to the skin, and cooling them can help lower body temperature.

What is heat exhaustion?

Those who work or exercise in humid or hot conditions might have experienced some level of heat exhaustion. When a person is suffering from heat exhaustion, their body is losing its fluids through sweat, and that loss causes dehydration. The body will also overheat, with its temperature rising as high 104 F. What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke can be life threatening. When a person is experiencing heat stroke, his or her body's cooling system stops working, and the body's temperature can rise to 105 degrees or higher. The cooling system is controlled by the brain, so heat stroke can even damage the brain and/or additional internal organs.

What causes heat exhaustion?

Many people who suffer from heat exhaustion are not used to exercising or working in hot or humid environments, an unfamiliarity that makes them susceptible to heat exhaustion. Gardeners, for example, might be able to work in the garden in late spring and feel no ill effects. However, once summer arrives with its humidity and higher temperatures, those same gardeners are not accustomed to such conditions and might develop heat exhaustion as a result. Especially humid days make it difficult for the body to properly evaporate sweat, and the body will lose fluids and electrolytes. As this is happening, people who do not adequately replace those lost fluids are more likely to suffer from heat exhaustion.

What causes heat stroke?

Unlike heat exhaustion, which is largely caused by external conditions, heat stroke can result from an existing medical condition or medications. People with certain conditions or people on medications that hinder the body's ability to sweat may be predisposed to heat stroke because their cooling mechanisms are already impaired or compromised. But heat stroke can also be caused by anyone exerting themselves in a hot environment, even if those people do not have a pre-existing medical condition.

What are the symptoms of heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion symptoms vary but can include: sweating profusely, feelings of dizziness, muscle cramps or pains, fainting, dark-colored urine (dehydration), nausea, pale skin, rapid heartbeat and headache.

What are the symptoms of heat stroke?

A body temperature of 105 degrees or above is a telltale indicator of heat stroke, but additional symptoms may include: throbbing headache, flushed, hot and dry skin, slightly elevated blood pressure, dizziness and light-headedness, nausea and vomiting, rapid and shallow breathing, lack of sweating despite the heat, rapid heartbeat that is strong or weak and unconsciousness.

Make sure to drink plenty of water in the summer months.

6 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 6-7

6/11/2014 8:33:50 AM

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke pose

significant threat

S

ummer is a season best spent outdoors, and many people anxiously await their opportunity to soak up some sun in the warm, summer air. But the summer heat can be relentless, posing a potentially significant threat to those who aren't careful when the dog days of summer arrive.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two of the biggest concerns for those spending time under the summer sun. Differentiating between the two and understanding the causes and symptoms of each can help revelers survive the summer heat.

What do I do if I suspect I am suffering from heat exhaustion?

If heat exhaustion is suspected, get out of the heat immediately, ideally into an air-conditioned room but under a tree in the shade if that's the only option. Call a doctor if you cannot keep fluids down or if you seem incoherent.

Those who can keep fluids down should drink plenty of noncaffeinated and nonalcoholic beverages, and remove any tight or unnecessary clothing.

In addition, take a cool shower or bath, but ideally only do so if someone is around to monitor you.

What should I do if I suspect I am suffering from heat stroke?

Heat stroke is potentially life-threatening, so immediately dial 911 if you feel you have heat stroke. If you suspect someone else has heat stroke, administer some first aid while waiting for an ambulance to arrive. Move the person to an air-conditioned room, and try to get his or her body temperature down to a more manageable 101 degree or 102 degree. Wet the person's skin and apply ice packs to the armpits, groin, neck, and back, as these areas have an abundance of blood vessels close to the skin, and cooling them can help lower body temperature.

What is heat exhaustion?

Those who work or exercise in humid or hot conditions might have experienced some level of heat exhaustion. When a person is suffering from heat exhaustion, their body is losing its fluids through sweat, and that loss causes dehydration. The body will also overheat, with its temperature rising as high 104 F. What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke can be life threatening. When a person is experiencing heat stroke, his or her body's cooling system stops working, and the body's temperature can rise to 105 degrees or higher. The cooling system is controlled by the brain, so heat stroke can even damage the brain and/or additional internal organs.

What causes heat exhaustion?

Many people who suffer from heat exhaustion are not used to exercising or working in hot or humid environments, an unfamiliarity that makes them susceptible to heat exhaustion. Gardeners, for example, might be able to work in the garden in late spring and feel no ill effects. However, once summer arrives with its humidity and higher temperatures, those same gardeners are not accustomed to such conditions and might develop heat exhaustion as a result. Especially humid days make it difficult for the body to properly evaporate sweat, and the body will lose fluids and electrolytes. As this is happening, people who do not adequately replace those lost fluids are more likely to suffer from heat exhaustion.

What causes heat stroke?

Unlike heat exhaustion, which is largely caused by external conditions, heat stroke can result from an existing medical condition or medications. People with certain conditions or people on medications that hinder the body's ability to sweat may be predisposed to heat stroke because their cooling mechanisms are already impaired or compromised. But heat stroke can also be caused by anyone exerting themselves in a hot environment, even if those people do not have a pre-existing medical condition.

What are the symptoms of heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion symptoms vary but can include: sweating profusely, feelings of dizziness, muscle cramps or pains, fainting, dark-colored urine (dehydration), nausea, pale skin, rapid heartbeat and headache.

What are the symptoms of heat stroke?

A body temperature of 105 degrees or above is a telltale indicator of heat stroke, but additional symptoms may include: throbbing headache, flushed, hot and dry skin, slightly elevated blood pressure, dizziness and light-headedness, nausea and vomiting, rapid and shallow breathing, lack of sweating despite the heat, rapid heartbeat that is strong or weak and unconsciousness.

Make sure to drink plenty of water in the summer months.

6 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 6-7

6/11/2014 8:33:50 AM

Setting Sleep Rules for Teenagers

A

15-year-old fumbling through a "To Kill a Mockingbird" essay until 11 p.m.? There's a scene that's been happening for decades. A teen finishing the essay and staying up hours later to text friends, play video games and scroll through Facebook? That's a relatively new picture, and one that challenges the quantity and quality of sleep for kids today.

The National Sleep Foundation's annual "Sleep in America" poll, released today, shows that many kids aren't getting enough sleep, and that late-night access to all these electronic devices sure isn't helping. The foundation recommends 11 hours of sleep for kids ages 6 through 10 and 8.5 to 9.5 hours for kids ages 11 through 17, but the parents surveyed in the 2014 poll say their kids typically get less than those recommendations. Some of the sleep challenges are old school: 34 percent of parents cite evening activities, and 28 percent report homework. But some are new: 72 percent of parents say their kids have at least one electronic device in their bedroom while sleeping, and it turns out that those kids typically get a half hour to an hour less sleep per night than their peers.

Nine out of 10 parents surveyed believe their kids' sleep is extremely or very important, and it is. Insufficient, poor quality sleep can impact [kids'] health, performance in school and their behavior. So how can parents help their kids get more sleep? What can combat challenges as archaic as homework and as modern as Candy Crush? Go back to the basics: rules and role modeling. Knutson explains: Set rules, and stick to them. Assign bed times, yes, but also regulate how late kids can use their cellphones, watch TV, play video games and consume caffeine. In the NSF survey, kids whose parents continually enforce rules about phone use and caffeine consumption average almost an hour more sleep than their peers each night.

These rules may help temper the typical sleep challenges kids face, such

as a full schedule of homework and evening activities that may bleed into the night. While (to your child's disappointment) you can't tell him or her to skip the homework, these rules will stifle the variables working against them, such as late-night screen time and caffeine intake. Sure, there will be nights when your teenager must work on an algebra assignment until 10 or 11 p.m. But they shouldn't jump on Facebook or PlayStation afterward. So don't expect an 8 p.m. bedtime to work, but set rules to prevent teenagers from staying up until 2 a.m. An hour or two earlier would be very beneficial.

Explain why you're setting rules. You know what might help these rules stick? Context. Sit down with your child – especially teenagers – and talk with them about why you want to enforce these rules, how important sleep is and that you're not just being mean. Instead of simply forbidding smartphone use after 9 p.m., for example, explain to older kids how the light from these devices can disturb their sleep. Stress the consequences of poor sleep versus quality sleep and how it will affect their schoolwork. It's even worth having the sleep talk with a 6-year-old. Just explain that sleep is really important for you to do better, feel better and have more fun during the day.

Be a role model. Chances are, if you're setting sleep rules, kids will take note if you follow them or not. According to the survey, 65 percent of kids whose parents have one or more interactive electronics (such as tablets or smartphones, laptops or desktop computers or video games) in their bedrooms have at least one of these devices in their bedrooms, too. Parents set examples for children in all our habits, whether it's diet or exercise or whatever it is, and sleep is another important aspect of a healthy lifestyle.

If you do not have a pediatrician and need assistant with your child’s sleep habit or any other problem contact Dr Manning at Manning Pediatrics today for an appointment.

Manning Pediatrics Cheryl A. Manning M.D. FAAP BOARD CERTIFIED THE AMERICAN BOARD OF PEDIATRICS

Now accepting new patients!

• Free expectant parent consults • Same day appointments • Friendly, courteous staff • All major insurance accepted • Doctor on call 24 hours Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30-4:30 Wednesday, Friday 8:30-2:30

4139 Hopsital Drive, Covington, GA 30014 OFFICE: (770) 786-0012 FAX: (770) 786-9988 Mission Statement “To deliver excellent medical care to the children of Newton County and surrounding areas.

To treat these children and their families with the compassion and understanding we would expect to be given to our family and friends.”

8 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 8-9

6/11/2014 8:34:01 AM

Setting Sleep Rules for Teenagers

A

15-year-old fumbling through a "To Kill a Mockingbird" essay until 11 p.m.? There's a scene that's been happening for decades. A teen finishing the essay and staying up hours later to text friends, play video games and scroll through Facebook? That's a relatively new picture, and one that challenges the quantity and quality of sleep for kids today.

The National Sleep Foundation's annual "Sleep in America" poll, released today, shows that many kids aren't getting enough sleep, and that late-night access to all these electronic devices sure isn't helping. The foundation recommends 11 hours of sleep for kids ages 6 through 10 and 8.5 to 9.5 hours for kids ages 11 through 17, but the parents surveyed in the 2014 poll say their kids typically get less than those recommendations. Some of the sleep challenges are old school: 34 percent of parents cite evening activities, and 28 percent report homework. But some are new: 72 percent of parents say their kids have at least one electronic device in their bedroom while sleeping, and it turns out that those kids typically get a half hour to an hour less sleep per night than their peers.

Nine out of 10 parents surveyed believe their kids' sleep is extremely or very important, and it is. Insufficient, poor quality sleep can impact [kids'] health, performance in school and their behavior. So how can parents help their kids get more sleep? What can combat challenges as archaic as homework and as modern as Candy Crush? Go back to the basics: rules and role modeling. Knutson explains: Set rules, and stick to them. Assign bed times, yes, but also regulate how late kids can use their cellphones, watch TV, play video games and consume caffeine. In the NSF survey, kids whose parents continually enforce rules about phone use and caffeine consumption average almost an hour more sleep than their peers each night.

These rules may help temper the typical sleep challenges kids face, such

as a full schedule of homework and evening activities that may bleed into the night. While (to your child's disappointment) you can't tell him or her to skip the homework, these rules will stifle the variables working against them, such as late-night screen time and caffeine intake. Sure, there will be nights when your teenager must work on an algebra assignment until 10 or 11 p.m. But they shouldn't jump on Facebook or PlayStation afterward. So don't expect an 8 p.m. bedtime to work, but set rules to prevent teenagers from staying up until 2 a.m. An hour or two earlier would be very beneficial.

Explain why you're setting rules. You know what might help these rules stick? Context. Sit down with your child – especially teenagers – and talk with them about why you want to enforce these rules, how important sleep is and that you're not just being mean. Instead of simply forbidding smartphone use after 9 p.m., for example, explain to older kids how the light from these devices can disturb their sleep. Stress the consequences of poor sleep versus quality sleep and how it will affect their schoolwork. It's even worth having the sleep talk with a 6-year-old. Just explain that sleep is really important for you to do better, feel better and have more fun during the day.

Be a role model. Chances are, if you're setting sleep rules, kids will take note if you follow them or not. According to the survey, 65 percent of kids whose parents have one or more interactive electronics (such as tablets or smartphones, laptops or desktop computers or video games) in their bedrooms have at least one of these devices in their bedrooms, too. Parents set examples for children in all our habits, whether it's diet or exercise or whatever it is, and sleep is another important aspect of a healthy lifestyle.

If you do not have a pediatrician and need assistant with your child’s sleep habit or any other problem contact Dr Manning at Manning Pediatrics today for an appointment.

Manning Pediatrics Cheryl A. Manning M.D. FAAP BOARD CERTIFIED THE AMERICAN BOARD OF PEDIATRICS

Now accepting new patients!

• Free expectant parent consults • Same day appointments • Friendly, courteous staff • All major insurance accepted • Doctor on call 24 hours Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30-4:30 Wednesday, Friday 8:30-2:30

4139 Hopsital Drive, Covington, GA 30014 OFFICE: (770) 786-0012 FAX: (770) 786-9988 Mission Statement “To deliver excellent medical care to the children of Newton County and surrounding areas.

To treat these children and their families with the compassion and understanding we would expect to be given to our family and friends.”

8 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 8-9

6/11/2014 8:34:01 AM

Mohs Surgery for the

MOHS SKIN CANCER SURGERY - MOLE REMOVAL - ROUTINE SKIN EXAMS ACNE - WARTS - PSORIASIS - EXCEMA - & OTHER SKIN CONDITIONS

Treatment of Skin Cancer written by Richard P. James, Jr., M.D., FAAD, FACMS

An estimated two million new cases of skin cancer in the U.S. are projected each year.

1349 Milstead Road - Conyers, Georgia

770-785-7546

T

he most common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. With early detection and treatment, skin cancer is highly curable. Skin cancer is easily diagnosed with a skin biopsy. There are different treatment options for skin cancer including excisional surgery, cryosurgery (freezing), electro surgery (burning), radiation, prescription medications and the specialized surgical technique of Mohs Micrographic Surgery. The Mohs surgery procedure has proven to be up to 99 percent effective for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the most common types of skin cancer.

Mohs surgery, developed in 1938 by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs, is microscopically controlled surgery that involves the complete evaluation of the surgical margins for skin cancer removal. Mohs surgery is typically an office-based procedure performed safely under local anesthesia, which reduces recovery time and has fewer side effects than general anesthesia. During Mohs surgery, the skin cancer is removed layer by layer and the tissue is processed at an on-site laboratory. The tissue slides are examined by the Mohs surgeon who performs the pathology services, all while the patient remains in the office. If more cancer remains, the Mohs surgeon removes more tissue precisely from only the area with remaining cancer and this additional layer of tissue is processed and microscopically examined. This process continues until all of the cancerous tissue is removed. Mohs surgery allows for the complete removal of the skin cancer, yet minimizes the removal of healthy tissue leaving the smallest possibly surgical wound. After Mohs surgery confirms that all of the skin cancer has been removed, the surgical defect is immediately ready for repair. There are several options for repaid that include allowing the wound to heal on its own or surgically repairing the defect. Frequently, the Mohs surgeon also performs the reconstructive surgery with a sutured linear repair, skin graft or skin flap.

In some cases, the repair of the wound is performed by another surgical specialist.

Mohs surgery is appropriate and often the best treatment option for basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers that are located in cosmetically sensitive or functionally critical areas such as around the eyes, nose, lips, ears, face, scalp, hands, feet or genitals. Additionally, Mohs surgery is appropriate for large,

GaDerm.com

Make your appointment today!

recurrent, aggressive, rapidly growing and ill-defined skin cancers. However, Mohs surgery is not warranted for all skin cancers, particularly small or superficial skin cancers located on the trunk, arms, and legs. Determining the best treatment option for skin cancer involves careful consideration by the patients and the dermatologist or other skin care provider.

The diagnosis of skin cancer can cause significant concern and fear for patients. Many times, the involvement of the cancer beneath the skin may be much more than meets the naked eye. If left untreated or if incompletely removed, the skin cancer can continue to progress and be disfiguring or even potentially life threatening. Of the many treatment options for skin cancer, Mohs surgery is considered the “Gold Standard� because it offers the highest potential cure rate (99 percent for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma) and it offers superior cosmetic results by leaving healthy tissue intact. Mohs surgery is a highly effective advanced technique for the treatment of skin cancer that provides the patients with quick resolution, rapid recovery and peace of mind.

Dr. John A. Fountain, Dr. Darryl S. Hodson and Dr. Allen B. Filstein at Georgia Dermatology offer general and surgical dermatology needs to you and your family. Call the office today at 770-785-SKIN (7546) to schedule an appointment or visit the website at GaDerm.com for more information.

John A. Fountain, MD

Allen B. Filstein, MD

Darryl S. Hodson, MD

10 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 10-11

6/11/2014 8:34:18 AM

Mohs Surgery for the

MOHS SKIN CANCER SURGERY - MOLE REMOVAL - ROUTINE SKIN EXAMS ACNE - WARTS - PSORIASIS - EXCEMA - & OTHER SKIN CONDITIONS

Treatment of Skin Cancer written by Richard P. James, Jr., M.D., FAAD, FACMS

An estimated two million new cases of skin cancer in the U.S. are projected each year.

1349 Milstead Road - Conyers, Georgia

770-785-7546

T

he most common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. With early detection and treatment, skin cancer is highly curable. Skin cancer is easily diagnosed with a skin biopsy. There are different treatment options for skin cancer including excisional surgery, cryosurgery (freezing), electro surgery (burning), radiation, prescription medications and the specialized surgical technique of Mohs Micrographic Surgery. The Mohs surgery procedure has proven to be up to 99 percent effective for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the most common types of skin cancer.

Mohs surgery, developed in 1938 by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs, is microscopically controlled surgery that involves the complete evaluation of the surgical margins for skin cancer removal. Mohs surgery is typically an office-based procedure performed safely under local anesthesia, which reduces recovery time and has fewer side effects than general anesthesia. During Mohs surgery, the skin cancer is removed layer by layer and the tissue is processed at an on-site laboratory. The tissue slides are examined by the Mohs surgeon who performs the pathology services, all while the patient remains in the office. If more cancer remains, the Mohs surgeon removes more tissue precisely from only the area with remaining cancer and this additional layer of tissue is processed and microscopically examined. This process continues until all of the cancerous tissue is removed. Mohs surgery allows for the complete removal of the skin cancer, yet minimizes the removal of healthy tissue leaving the smallest possibly surgical wound. After Mohs surgery confirms that all of the skin cancer has been removed, the surgical defect is immediately ready for repair. There are several options for repaid that include allowing the wound to heal on its own or surgically repairing the defect. Frequently, the Mohs surgeon also performs the reconstructive surgery with a sutured linear repair, skin graft or skin flap.

In some cases, the repair of the wound is performed by another surgical specialist.

Mohs surgery is appropriate and often the best treatment option for basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers that are located in cosmetically sensitive or functionally critical areas such as around the eyes, nose, lips, ears, face, scalp, hands, feet or genitals. Additionally, Mohs surgery is appropriate for large,

GaDerm.com

Make your appointment today!

recurrent, aggressive, rapidly growing and ill-defined skin cancers. However, Mohs surgery is not warranted for all skin cancers, particularly small or superficial skin cancers located on the trunk, arms, and legs. Determining the best treatment option for skin cancer involves careful consideration by the patients and the dermatologist or other skin care provider.

The diagnosis of skin cancer can cause significant concern and fear for patients. Many times, the involvement of the cancer beneath the skin may be much more than meets the naked eye. If left untreated or if incompletely removed, the skin cancer can continue to progress and be disfiguring or even potentially life threatening. Of the many treatment options for skin cancer, Mohs surgery is considered the “Gold Standard� because it offers the highest potential cure rate (99 percent for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma) and it offers superior cosmetic results by leaving healthy tissue intact. Mohs surgery is a highly effective advanced technique for the treatment of skin cancer that provides the patients with quick resolution, rapid recovery and peace of mind.

Dr. John A. Fountain, Dr. Darryl S. Hodson and Dr. Allen B. Filstein at Georgia Dermatology offer general and surgical dermatology needs to you and your family. Call the office today at 770-785-SKIN (7546) to schedule an appointment or visit the website at GaDerm.com for more information.

John A. Fountain, MD

Allen B. Filstein, MD

Darryl S. Hodson, MD

10 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 10-11

6/11/2014 8:34:18 AM

HOW TO

ENCOURAGE KIDS to be more

PHYSICALLY ACTIVE W

hen today's parents reflect on their childhood, many likely recall seemingly endless days spent playing outdoors. But when today's kids become tomorrow's parents, chances are their recollections won't recall nearly as much time spent idling the days away under the sun.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 17 percent of American children and adolescents between the ages of 2 to 19 are obese.

The rise in overweight or obese children is likely a byproduct of several factors, not the least of which is that many of today's kids prefer to play a video game on the couch instead of going outdoors and being physically active. The potential ramifications of youngsters choosing a more sedentary lifestyle are dangerous, as it increases their risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, respiratory ailments and joint problems, among other things.

What's more, numerous studies have found that obese or overweight children are more likely to become obese or overweight adults, which highlights the importance of embracing a physically active lifestyle as a youngster.

Parents know it's not always easy to get kids to be more physically active. But the following are a few tips parents might find useful when encouraging their kids to embrace a more active lifestyle. * Give toys that encourage physical activity. Kids love toys, and their toys will often dictate how they spend their days. Instead of buying the latest video game console, give kids toys that encourage them to be active. This can include balls, bicycles, jump ropes or even a backyard swingset. Kids who embrace these activities at a young age are more likely to continue doing so into adolescence and adulthood. * Reduce time spent in front of the television. Parents who can effectively minimize the amount of time their child spends in front of the television, whether reducing their time spent watching television or playing video games, will likely be more successful at

instilling a love of physical activity as well. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents limit their child's time in front of the television to one to two hours per day, and that includes the time children spend playing video games. To further reduce kids' time watching TV, don't allow televisions in their bedrooms, as that will only make it harder to monitor just how much time kids are spending in front of their TVs. * Remember that physical activity should be fun.

Not all kids are athletic, and some will likely bemoan participating in recreational sports leagues. But that doesn't mean parents should give up on encouraging physical activity. Instead, find a physical activity that your child finds fun and encourage his or her participation. This might be nontraditional kids' sports like cycling or jogging or activities like dancing, hiking or even bird watching.

For an interactive map to see what outdoor opportunities are near you such as hiking, fishing, boating, hunting, camping or disc golf, go to www.georgiaoutdoormap.com (provided by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources).

The Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center, in eastern Newton County at 543 Elliott Trail in Mansfield, Georgia, has a full schedule of activities and classes such as canoeing, fishing, archery, hunting classes, astronomy, and “frogging.” On June 13, kids can go “Froggin’ by Ear” for free with a DNR herpetologist.

Kid's fishing days are offered at the Marben PFA at Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center on June 7, July 12, Aug. 9, and Sept. 27. These are just some of the many activities scheduled. Call 770-784-3059 or go to www. georgiawildlife.com/CharlieElliott for more informa-

tion.

Newton County’s parks offer lots of spaces to play ball, have picnics or simply walk around outside. The Turner Lake Complex, located off Turner Lake Road near Ga. Hwy 278, offers three miles of walking trails near a lake and a softball complex in addition to a gymnasium. The City Pond Complex, located off Interstate 20 on Old City Pond Road, has a two-mile walking trail and a

state-of-the art baseball complex that’s home to the Dixie Boys World Series.

Hard Labor State Creek State Park in Rutledge, Ga. has many family-friendly events, such as an introductory Archery class and a “Twilight Paddle” on June 7, or a Father’s Day Paddle on June 15. For more call 706-557-3001.

For both beginning cyclists and those for whom cycling is a way of life, the Covington Century

Ride is coming up Aug. 2, with routes of 17, 32, 67 or 100 miles on a picturesque loop through Newton County. For more information, go to www. covingtoncentury.com Whatever physical activity you choose to do together, you can bet your children will express an interest in it as well, and that's a great way to make them more enthusiastic about having a healthy and active lifestyle.

12 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 12-13

6/11/2014 8:52:10 AM

HOW TO

ENCOURAGE KIDS to be more

PHYSICALLY ACTIVE W

hen today's parents reflect on their childhood, many likely recall seemingly endless days spent playing outdoors. But when today's kids become tomorrow's parents, chances are their recollections won't recall nearly as much time spent idling the days away under the sun.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 17 percent of American children and adolescents between the ages of 2 to 19 are obese.

The rise in overweight or obese children is likely a byproduct of several factors, not the least of which is that many of today's kids prefer to play a video game on the couch instead of going outdoors and being physically active. The potential ramifications of youngsters choosing a more sedentary lifestyle are dangerous, as it increases their risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, respiratory ailments and joint problems, among other things.

What's more, numerous studies have found that obese or overweight children are more likely to become obese or overweight adults, which highlights the importance of embracing a physically active lifestyle as a youngster.

Parents know it's not always easy to get kids to be more physically active. But the following are a few tips parents might find useful when encouraging their kids to embrace a more active lifestyle. * Give toys that encourage physical activity. Kids love toys, and their toys will often dictate how they spend their days. Instead of buying the latest video game console, give kids toys that encourage them to be active. This can include balls, bicycles, jump ropes or even a backyard swingset. Kids who embrace these activities at a young age are more likely to continue doing so into adolescence and adulthood. * Reduce time spent in front of the television. Parents who can effectively minimize the amount of time their child spends in front of the television, whether reducing their time spent watching television or playing video games, will likely be more successful at

instilling a love of physical activity as well. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents limit their child's time in front of the television to one to two hours per day, and that includes the time children spend playing video games. To further reduce kids' time watching TV, don't allow televisions in their bedrooms, as that will only make it harder to monitor just how much time kids are spending in front of their TVs. * Remember that physical activity should be fun.

Not all kids are athletic, and some will likely bemoan participating in recreational sports leagues. But that doesn't mean parents should give up on encouraging physical activity. Instead, find a physical activity that your child finds fun and encourage his or her participation. This might be nontraditional kids' sports like cycling or jogging or activities like dancing, hiking or even bird watching.

For an interactive map to see what outdoor opportunities are near you such as hiking, fishing, boating, hunting, camping or disc golf, go to www.georgiaoutdoormap.com (provided by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources).

The Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center, in eastern Newton County at 543 Elliott Trail in Mansfield, Georgia, has a full schedule of activities and classes such as canoeing, fishing, archery, hunting classes, astronomy, and “frogging.” On June 13, kids can go “Froggin’ by Ear” for free with a DNR herpetologist.

Kid's fishing days are offered at the Marben PFA at Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center on June 7, July 12, Aug. 9, and Sept. 27. These are just some of the many activities scheduled. Call 770-784-3059 or go to www. georgiawildlife.com/CharlieElliott for more informa-

tion.

Newton County’s parks offer lots of spaces to play ball, have picnics or simply walk around outside. The Turner Lake Complex, located off Turner Lake Road near Ga. Hwy 278, offers three miles of walking trails near a lake and a softball complex in addition to a gymnasium. The City Pond Complex, located off Interstate 20 on Old City Pond Road, has a two-mile walking trail and a

state-of-the art baseball complex that’s home to the Dixie Boys World Series.

Hard Labor State Creek State Park in Rutledge, Ga. has many family-friendly events, such as an introductory Archery class and a “Twilight Paddle” on June 7, or a Father’s Day Paddle on June 15. For more call 706-557-3001.

For both beginning cyclists and those for whom cycling is a way of life, the Covington Century

Ride is coming up Aug. 2, with routes of 17, 32, 67 or 100 miles on a picturesque loop through Newton County. For more information, go to www. covingtoncentury.com Whatever physical activity you choose to do together, you can bet your children will express an interest in it as well, and that's a great way to make them more enthusiastic about having a healthy and active lifestyle.

12 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 12-13

6/11/2014 8:52:10 AM

Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC

Family-Centered

Cesarean Birth

written by Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

A ;

Anticipating the birth of their twins many weeks earlier than her due date, Stephanie Sorrows and her partner, PJ Stinchcomb, were apprehensive. “My son was normal size, but my daughter was much smaller because she was not g r o w - ing. I thought my babies would be rushed to the nursery after they were born.” Stephanie had her Cesarean section at Newton Medical Center where Dr. Cathy Larrimore of Covington Women’s Health Specialists and Clinical Nurse Manager Susann Whittle, RN are initiating Family-Centered Cesarean Births. “I cried when the nurses put my daughter and then my son on my chest! I was very happy. PJ helped me hold the babies who were both crying and healthy.” Dr. John Warner, Chief of Anesthesia at Newton Medical Center, provided the anesthesia as well as the photography. “Dr. Warner made me feel like an important part of the birth. He made the experience memorable for me,” PJ recalled.

Traditional Cesarean delivery often isolates the mother from her partner and from the newborn. This can prevent important early emotional and physical bonding between the mother, the baby and the father. Recent studies show the importance of skin to skin contact of the baby and the parents immediately after delivery.

Preventing early maternal-infant bonding can slow the initiation of breastfeeding and impact maternal behavior later as the baby grows.

Dr. Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

OFFICE PROCEDURES • Hysteroscopy • Colposcopy • LEEP

Stephanie Sorrows with her twin babies.

The Family-Centered approach to Cesarean delivery encourages early interaction of the mother and father with their baby. The birth care team celebrates the momentous birth experience and encourages early mother–infant –father bonding. Josh Hughes and his wife Holly had a wonderful experience when their son, Blake, was born by Cesarean in 2010, but Josh noticed differences between his son’s birth and the family-centered approach undertaken when his daughter Madison was born. Josh said, “From start to finish, the experience was more supportive.” While they were only able to spend a short amount of time with Blake after his birth before he was taken to the nursery, they were able to hold Madison and bond with her for an extended length of time before both mother and baby were taken to the recovery room.

Experience the joys of natural birth even if Cesarean delivery is needed. Family-Centered Cesarean, with its focus on early bonding and skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding, is not routinely used with preterm births, deliveries which are emergencies or in cases where the baby is a high risk or is not breathing normally after delivery.

Holly Hughes, with her husband Josh and their 2 children.

SUITE DEVOTED TO MIDWIFERY CARE NORMAL AND HIGH RISK PREGNANCY • Family Centered Maternity Care • 3D/4D Ultrasound • Trial of Labor after Cesarean COMPREHENSIVE WOMEN’S HEALTH CARE • Annual Exams • Infertility • Osteoporosis • Fibroids • HPV Testing and Vaccination • Abnormal Pap Smears • Endometriosis • Contraception Options • Menopause-HRT • Bio-identical Hormones

Our Incredible Staff Member of American Institute of Minimally Invasive Surgery

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Lynn M. Stock, CNM, Janice D. Joiner, CNM, Kerry G. Dewberry, WHNP

SURGICAL GYNECOLOGY Hysterectomy • Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Laparoscopy • HTA – Novasure Minimally Invasive Surgical Services

Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC

4181 Hospital Drive, Suite 104 & 100, Covington

770.385.8954 www.cwhs-larrimore.com

188296-1

Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

Physician’s Pavilion at Newton Medical Center

14 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 14-15

6/11/2014 8:35:02 AM

Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC

Family-Centered

Cesarean Birth

written by Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

A ;

Anticipating the birth of their twins many weeks earlier than her due date, Stephanie Sorrows and her partner, PJ Stinchcomb, were apprehensive. “My son was normal size, but my daughter was much smaller because she was not g r o w - ing. I thought my babies would be rushed to the nursery after they were born.” Stephanie had her Cesarean section at Newton Medical Center where Dr. Cathy Larrimore of Covington Women’s Health Specialists and Clinical Nurse Manager Susann Whittle, RN are initiating Family-Centered Cesarean Births. “I cried when the nurses put my daughter and then my son on my chest! I was very happy. PJ helped me hold the babies who were both crying and healthy.” Dr. John Warner, Chief of Anesthesia at Newton Medical Center, provided the anesthesia as well as the photography. “Dr. Warner made me feel like an important part of the birth. He made the experience memorable for me,” PJ recalled.

Traditional Cesarean delivery often isolates the mother from her partner and from the newborn. This can prevent important early emotional and physical bonding between the mother, the baby and the father. Recent studies show the importance of skin to skin contact of the baby and the parents immediately after delivery.

Preventing early maternal-infant bonding can slow the initiation of breastfeeding and impact maternal behavior later as the baby grows.

Dr. Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

OFFICE PROCEDURES • Hysteroscopy • Colposcopy • LEEP

Stephanie Sorrows with her twin babies.

The Family-Centered approach to Cesarean delivery encourages early interaction of the mother and father with their baby. The birth care team celebrates the momentous birth experience and encourages early mother–infant –father bonding. Josh Hughes and his wife Holly had a wonderful experience when their son, Blake, was born by Cesarean in 2010, but Josh noticed differences between his son’s birth and the family-centered approach undertaken when his daughter Madison was born. Josh said, “From start to finish, the experience was more supportive.” While they were only able to spend a short amount of time with Blake after his birth before he was taken to the nursery, they were able to hold Madison and bond with her for an extended length of time before both mother and baby were taken to the recovery room.

Experience the joys of natural birth even if Cesarean delivery is needed. Family-Centered Cesarean, with its focus on early bonding and skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding, is not routinely used with preterm births, deliveries which are emergencies or in cases where the baby is a high risk or is not breathing normally after delivery.

Holly Hughes, with her husband Josh and their 2 children.

SUITE DEVOTED TO MIDWIFERY CARE NORMAL AND HIGH RISK PREGNANCY • Family Centered Maternity Care • 3D/4D Ultrasound • Trial of Labor after Cesarean COMPREHENSIVE WOMEN’S HEALTH CARE • Annual Exams • Infertility • Osteoporosis • Fibroids • HPV Testing and Vaccination • Abnormal Pap Smears • Endometriosis • Contraception Options • Menopause-HRT • Bio-identical Hormones

Our Incredible Staff Member of American Institute of Minimally Invasive Surgery

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Lynn M. Stock, CNM, Janice D. Joiner, CNM, Kerry G. Dewberry, WHNP

SURGICAL GYNECOLOGY Hysterectomy • Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Laparoscopy • HTA – Novasure Minimally Invasive Surgical Services

Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC

4181 Hospital Drive, Suite 104 & 100, Covington

770.385.8954 www.cwhs-larrimore.com

188296-1

Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

Physician’s Pavilion at Newton Medical Center

14 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 14-15

6/11/2014 8:35:02 AM

child’s skin

this summer!

I

ts 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 would wreak on your child’s skin. Children have a very delicate skin as compared to us adults and are 16 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 16-17

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 tempera-

tures 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 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.

“

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 broadbrimmed 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.

“

How to take care of your

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 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.”

6/11/2014 8:35:21 AM

child’s skin

this summer!

I

ts 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 would wreak on your child’s skin. Children have a very delicate skin as compared to us adults and are 16 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 16-17

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 tempera-

tures 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 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.

“

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 broadbrimmed 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.

“

How to take care of your

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 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.”

6/11/2014 8:35:21 AM

New Heart Defect Screening for Georgia Newborns

Newton County Mother Sees Her Dream for Screening All Babies

For Dangerous Heart Defects Become a Reality

X J

written by Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

essica Hatcher smiles as she watches over her four beautiful

children who range in age from one to 12 years. Her five-year old son, Wyatt is a playful, active child; onlookers would have no idea that he was born with a serious and life-threatening heart defect. Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) is the name given to the most severe heart defects which may be discovered at birth. Heart defects cause the heart to be unable to pump oxygenated blood around the body. A defect may affect the shape of a baby’s heart, the way the heart pumps, or sometimes both. Babies with CCHD may sometimes appear very

X

healthy after birth, but there is a limited amount of time for the problem to be recognized or the heart defect may become deadly.

Congenital heart defects are among the most common developmental problems and affect approximately 1 in 100 babies. Prenatal ultrasounds can sometimes help detect heart defects, but not all heart defects are detected in this way. Hatcher was fortunate that while Wyatt was still in the womb, his heart condition was detected by ultrasound. She and her husband Kevin were able to learn of the severity of the problem and prepare prior to his birth. The Hatchers saw their son through years of intensive medical care including a heart transplant in 2010, and with the support of his family and excellent medical care, he is doing very well today.

Hatcher has made it her mission to ensure that a screening test is available to all newborn babies in Georgia. “I would like to prevent other parents from experiencing the unnecessary death of their babies,” she says.

Hatcher learned that a simple test called pulse oximetry can determine which babies may have CCHD before they develop life threatening symptoms. The device is fast, does not hurt and measures the amount of oxygen in the babies’ blood. The babies with a low oxygen level likely have CCHD and can receive immediate evaluation by a

cardiologist. Early treatment of critical heart disease may lead to longer, healthier lives for these children and prevent disability and death.

In 2011, Hatcher enlisted the help of Rep. Andy Welch, R-McDonough to get a bill passed that would mandate this screening test. The bill passed both the House and Senate this year, but has not yet become legislation. Recognizing the importance of this life-saving law, the Georgia Department of Public Health has agreed to require the pulse oximetry test for all newborns without the legislation.

Newton Medical Center in Covington has joined several hospitals in Georgia in enacting the pulse oximetry test for all newborns well in advance of the mandated implementation date of July 1, 2015. Darlene Ransom, RN, Director of Maternal and Infant Care at Newton Medical Center’s Birth Care Center says, “We are excited to offer this vital screening to our patients.”

Dr. Cathy Larrimore and the staff of Covington Women’s Health Specialists applaud Jessica Hatcher, her supportive family and other advocates like her for supporting this important initiative concerning the health of newborns.

18 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 18-19

6/11/2014 8:35:36 AM

New Heart Defect Screening for Georgia Newborns

Newton County Mother Sees Her Dream for Screening All Babies

For Dangerous Heart Defects Become a Reality

X J

written by Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

essica Hatcher smiles as she watches over her four beautiful

children who range in age from one to 12 years. Her five-year old son, Wyatt is a playful, active child; onlookers would have no idea that he was born with a serious and life-threatening heart defect. Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) is the name given to the most severe heart defects which may be discovered at birth. Heart defects cause the heart to be unable to pump oxygenated blood around the body. A defect may affect the shape of a baby’s heart, the way the heart pumps, or sometimes both. Babies with CCHD may sometimes appear very

X

healthy after birth, but there is a limited amount of time for the problem to be recognized or the heart defect may become deadly.

Congenital heart defects are among the most common developmental problems and affect approximately 1 in 100 babies. Prenatal ultrasounds can sometimes help detect heart defects, but not all heart defects are detected in this way. Hatcher was fortunate that while Wyatt was still in the womb, his heart condition was detected by ultrasound. She and her husband Kevin were able to learn of the severity of the problem and prepare prior to his birth. The Hatchers saw their son through years of intensive medical care including a heart transplant in 2010, and with the support of his family and excellent medical care, he is doing very well today.

Hatcher has made it her mission to ensure that a screening test is available to all newborn babies in Georgia. “I would like to prevent other parents from experiencing the unnecessary death of their babies,” she says.

Hatcher learned that a simple test called pulse oximetry can determine which babies may have CCHD before they develop life threatening symptoms. The device is fast, does not hurt and measures the amount of oxygen in the babies’ blood. The babies with a low oxygen level likely have CCHD and can receive immediate evaluation by a

cardiologist. Early treatment of critical heart disease may lead to longer, healthier lives for these children and prevent disability and death.

In 2011, Hatcher enlisted the help of Rep. Andy Welch, R-McDonough to get a bill passed that would mandate this screening test. The bill passed both the House and Senate this year, but has not yet become legislation. Recognizing the importance of this life-saving law, the Georgia Department of Public Health has agreed to require the pulse oximetry test for all newborns without the legislation.

Newton Medical Center in Covington has joined several hospitals in Georgia in enacting the pulse oximetry test for all newborns well in advance of the mandated implementation date of July 1, 2015. Darlene Ransom, RN, Director of Maternal and Infant Care at Newton Medical Center’s Birth Care Center says, “We are excited to offer this vital screening to our patients.”

Dr. Cathy Larrimore and the staff of Covington Women’s Health Specialists applaud Jessica Hatcher, her supportive family and other advocates like her for supporting this important initiative concerning the health of newborns.

18 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 18-19

6/11/2014 8:35:36 AM

T

here are many myths about diabetes that make it difficult for people to believe some of the hard facts – such as diabetes is a serious and potentially deadly disease. These myths can create a picture of diabetes that is not accurate and full of stereotypes and stigma. Get the facts about diabetes and learn how you can stop diabetes myths and misconceptions.

Myth: Diabetes is not that serious of a disease.

Fact: If you manage your diabetes properly, you can prevent or delay diabetes complications. However, diabetes causes more deaths a year than breast cancer and AIDS combined. Two out of three people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke.

Myth: If you are overweight or obese, you will eventually develop type 2 diabetes.

Fact: Being overweight is a risk factor for developing this disease, but other risk factors such as family history, ethnicity and age also play a role. Unfortunately, too many people disregard the other risk factors for diabetes and think that weight is the only risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Most overweight people never develop type 2 diabetes,

and many people with type 2 diabetes are at a normal weight or only moderately overweight.

Myth: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.

Fact: The answer is not so simple.

Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetics and unknown factors that trigger the onset of the disease; Type 2 diabetes is caused by genetics and lifestyle factors.

Being overweight does increase your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, and a diet high in calories from any source contributes to weight gain. Research has shown that drinking sugary drinks is linked to type 2 diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association recommends that people should limit their intake of sugar-sweetened beverages to help prevent diabetes.

Sugar-sweetened beverages include beverages like: • regular soda • fruit punch • fruit drinks • energy drinks • sports drinks • sweet tea • other sugary drinks.

These will raise blood glucose and can provide several hundred calories in just one serving!

See for yourself: • Just one 12-ounce can of regular soda has about 150 calories and 40 grams of carbohydrates. This is the same amount of carbohydrates in 10 teaspoons of sugar!

• One cup of fruit punch and other sugary fruit drinks have about 100 calories (or more) and 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Newton Medical Center Diabetes Self-Management Education Classes Are Expanding!

We are excited to announce that the Diabetes Self- Management Education program is expanding our class options to better serve you. Our American Diabetes Association approved program will be adding a night version of our successful day class. We have maintained a 100% patient satisfaction rating since our program began. Participation requires a physician-signed referral and will include an individual assessment prior to class.

We can help! Below are the currently available education options: Days: A one day class, offered on the 2nd and 4th Monday every month from 8:30 am to 3 pm.

Evenings: A two night class, offered the 2nd Tuesday and Thursday every other month from 6 pm to 9 pm.

DR. JOHN ANDERSON: Internal Medicine, Diabetes Expert,

“

Support is one of the most important parts of diabetes management. Take all the tips, tools, and advice you can. You’re not in this alone. Those who depend on you are rooting for you.

The health information contained herein is provided for

Beans

Whether you prefer kidney, pinto, navy, or black beans, you can’t find better nutrition than that provided by beans. They are very high in fiber, the part of food that is hard to digest, giving you about 1/3 of your daily requirement in just a ½ cup, and are also good sources of magnesium and potassium. They are considered starchy vegetables, but ½ cup provides as much protein as an ounce of meat without the saturated fat. To save time you can use canned beans, but be sure to drain and rinse them to get rid of as much sodium as possible.

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 20-21

For more information call: Kenna Glick, RD, LD, Program Coordinator Diabetes Self- Management Education Outpatient Program Phone: 770-385-4185 Fax: 1-855-734-7350 Email: kglick@newtonmedical.com

“

Be Healthy…

Get the Facts!

have any questions about your health or treatment. Infor-

general educational purposes only. Your healthcare profes-

mation obtained from American Diabetes Association and

sional is the single best source of information regarding your

Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.

health. Please consult your healthcare professional if you

Tell your physician you want to go to Newton Medical Center!

6/11/2014 8:35:52 AM

T

here are many myths about diabetes that make it difficult for people to believe some of the hard facts – such as diabetes is a serious and potentially deadly disease. These myths can create a picture of diabetes that is not accurate and full of stereotypes and stigma. Get the facts about diabetes and learn how you can stop diabetes myths and misconceptions.

Myth: Diabetes is not that serious of a disease.

Fact: If you manage your diabetes properly, you can prevent or delay diabetes complications. However, diabetes causes more deaths a year than breast cancer and AIDS combined. Two out of three people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke.

Myth: If you are overweight or obese, you will eventually develop type 2 diabetes.

Fact: Being overweight is a risk factor for developing this disease, but other risk factors such as family history, ethnicity and age also play a role. Unfortunately, too many people disregard the other risk factors for diabetes and think that weight is the only risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Most overweight people never develop type 2 diabetes,

and many people with type 2 diabetes are at a normal weight or only moderately overweight.

Myth: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.

Fact: The answer is not so simple.

Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetics and unknown factors that trigger the onset of the disease; Type 2 diabetes is caused by genetics and lifestyle factors.

Being overweight does increase your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, and a diet high in calories from any source contributes to weight gain. Research has shown that drinking sugary drinks is linked to type 2 diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association recommends that people should limit their intake of sugar-sweetened beverages to help prevent diabetes.

Sugar-sweetened beverages include beverages like: • regular soda • fruit punch • fruit drinks • energy drinks • sports drinks • sweet tea • other sugary drinks.

These will raise blood glucose and can provide several hundred calories in just one serving!

See for yourself: • Just one 12-ounce can of regular soda has about 150 calories and 40 grams of carbohydrates. This is the same amount of carbohydrates in 10 teaspoons of sugar!

• One cup of fruit punch and other sugary fruit drinks have about 100 calories (or more) and 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Newton Medical Center Diabetes Self-Management Education Classes Are Expanding!

We are excited to announce that the Diabetes Self- Management Education program is expanding our class options to better serve you. Our American Diabetes Association approved program will be adding a night version of our successful day class. We have maintained a 100% patient satisfaction rating since our program began. Participation requires a physician-signed referral and will include an individual assessment prior to class.

We can help! Below are the currently available education options: Days: A one day class, offered on the 2nd and 4th Monday every month from 8:30 am to 3 pm.

Evenings: A two night class, offered the 2nd Tuesday and Thursday every other month from 6 pm to 9 pm.

DR. JOHN ANDERSON: Internal Medicine, Diabetes Expert,

“

Support is one of the most important parts of diabetes management. Take all the tips, tools, and advice you can. You’re not in this alone. Those who depend on you are rooting for you.

The health information contained herein is provided for

Beans

Whether you prefer kidney, pinto, navy, or black beans, you can’t find better nutrition than that provided by beans. They are very high in fiber, the part of food that is hard to digest, giving you about 1/3 of your daily requirement in just a ½ cup, and are also good sources of magnesium and potassium. They are considered starchy vegetables, but ½ cup provides as much protein as an ounce of meat without the saturated fat. To save time you can use canned beans, but be sure to drain and rinse them to get rid of as much sodium as possible.

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 20-21

For more information call: Kenna Glick, RD, LD, Program Coordinator Diabetes Self- Management Education Outpatient Program Phone: 770-385-4185 Fax: 1-855-734-7350 Email: kglick@newtonmedical.com

“

Be Healthy…

Get the Facts!

have any questions about your health or treatment. Infor-

general educational purposes only. Your healthcare profes-

mation obtained from American Diabetes Association and

sional is the single best source of information regarding your

Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.

health. Please consult your healthcare professional if you

Tell your physician you want to go to Newton Medical Center!

6/11/2014 8:35:52 AM

Hospice and Palliative Care

Tips for Choosing a

General Surgeon C

hoosing general surgeons or other specialty physicians is a privilege many patients didn't have until recently. If a surgery was approved by insurance, the choice of the doctor was usually out of the hands of the patient. Today, more and more insurance plans allow patients to deal directly with specialty physicians without first going through a primary care physician, and that includes choosing a general surgeon.

Get Names of General Surgeons The process of finding qualified general surgeons is different from the selection of a primary care physician because the relationship is different.

However, it is still important to come up with potential general surgeons, check their credentials and then talk to them before making a final choice.

There are several potential sources: • Family physician. One of the duties of a primary care physician is getting the patient to a specialist when the illness or injury is significant.

However, in most medical plans, patients can look for their own general surgeons as well.

Interviewing General Surgeons While you may not have a long-lasting relationship over a period of months and years with a general surgeon, it is nevertheless a good idea to talk to several candidates to ask about their experience.

• If you are to have gall bladder surgery, for example, it only makes sense to ask the surgeon how many procedures he or she has conducted. The more the better.

• Ask about board certification or any fellowships. That generally indicates a higher degree of specialization and practice involving procedures

Choose a General Surgeon Making the choice from your general surgeon candidates should be a decision that's blended between the factual information about your surgeon's certification and experience and the feedback you received during the interview with the surgeon.

As a graduate of Emory University, Dr. Andrew Harper is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and has been serving the Covington & Conyers communities since 1990. Please give his office a call to see if he would be a good fit for you at 770.922.4024.

You Can Trust!

Dr. Andrew Harper, MD 1301 Sigman Road NE, Suite 225 Conyers, GA 30012 770-922-4024 For your convenience, Dr. Harper sees patients on Thursday afternoons from 2-5pm in Covington at 5154 Cook Street NE, Covington.

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 22-23

helps patients manage pain while hospice provides special care to improve quality of life for both the patient

commonly performed by general surgeons.

• Ask about the surgeon's post-operative care and what you should expect following surgery.

SURGERY

or many seriously ill patients, hospice and palliative care offers a more dignified and comfortable

alternative to spending your final months in the impersonal environment of a hospital. Palliative medicine

• Consult family and friends. If you know someone who has had the same surgery, it's a great idea to ask about their surgeon and their results and expectations.

• Talk to physical therapists. Medical experts say that physical therapists, who routinely work with patients following surgery, are excellent resources for recommendations for general surgeons.

A home health nurse is a good resource for the same reason.

GENERAL

Call today for the next available appointment!

F

and their family. Seeking hospice and palliative care isn’t about giving up hope or hastening death, but rather a way to get the most appropriate care in the last phase of life.

What is Hospice and Palliative Care?

Although death is a natural part of life, the thought of dying understandably still frightens many people. You may imagine pain and loneliness, spending your final days in the cold, sterile environment of a hospital far from family, friends and all that you know and love. However, hospice care represents a compassionate approach to end-of-life care, enhancing the quality of remaining life and enabling you to live as fully and as comfortable, as possible.

Hospice is traditionally an option for people whose life expectancy is six months or less, and involves palliative care (pain and symptom relief) rather than ongoing curative measures, enabling you to live your last days to the fullest, with purpose, dignity, grace and support. While some hospitals, nursing homes and other health care facilities provide hospice care onsite, in most cases hospice is provided in the patient’s own home. This

enables you to spend your final days in a familiar, comfortable environment, surrounded by your loved ones who can focus more fully on you with the support of hospice staff.

How Hospice and Palliative Care Works Hospice care focuses on all aspects of a patient’s life and well being: physical, social, emotional and spiritual. There is no age restriction; anyone in the late stages of life is eligible for hospice services.

While specific hospice services around the world differ in the amenities they provide, most include a hospice interdisciplinary team, or IDT, that includes the patient’s physician, a hospice doctor, a case manager, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, a counselor, a dietician, therapist, pharmacologist, social workers, a minister and various trained volunteers.

The hospice team develops a care plan tailored to a patient's individual need for pain management

and symptom relief and provides all the necessary palliative drugs and therapies, medical supplies and equipment. Typically, hospice care is provided at home and a family member acts as the primary caregiver, supervised by professional medical staff. Hospice IDT members make regular visits to assess the patient and provide additional care and services, such as speech and physical therapy, therapeutic massage or dietary assistance. Certified home health aids may also be deployed for help with bathing and other personal care services.

Hospice staff remains on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

A hospice IDT also provides emotional and spiritual support according to the needs, wishes and beliefs of the patient. Emotional and spiritual support is also provided to the person's loved ones as well, including grief counseling.

Hernia Repair • Gallbladder • Appendix • Breast Biopsy Breast Cancer • Thyroid • Colon • Lipoma(s) •Sebaceous Cysts Hiradenitis • Hiatal Hernia •Hemorrhoids • Malignant Melanoma

The Hospice You Choose Really Can Make A Difference.

Pancreatic Disease • Speciality Services: Advanced Laparoscopic

Our hospice experts have the character, skill and ability to deliver quality care to all our patients. We promise to help you live all of your days with dignity.

Procedures

Dr. Andrew Harper, General Surgeon & his staff

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

compassionate care

that enables them to embrace the end of life with

dignity, courage and peace.

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

6/11/2014 8:36:07 AM

Hospice and Palliative Care

Tips for Choosing a

General Surgeon C

hoosing general surgeons or other specialty physicians is a privilege many patients didn't have until recently. If a surgery was approved by insurance, the choice of the doctor was usually out of the hands of the patient. Today, more and more insurance plans allow patients to deal directly with specialty physicians without first going through a primary care physician, and that includes choosing a general surgeon.

Get Names of General Surgeons The process of finding qualified general surgeons is different from the selection of a primary care physician because the relationship is different.

However, it is still important to come up with potential general surgeons, check their credentials and then talk to them before making a final choice.

There are several potential sources: • Family physician. One of the duties of a primary care physician is getting the patient to a specialist when the illness or injury is significant.

However, in most medical plans, patients can look for their own general surgeons as well.

Interviewing General Surgeons While you may not have a long-lasting relationship over a period of months and years with a general surgeon, it is nevertheless a good idea to talk to several candidates to ask about their experience.

• If you are to have gall bladder surgery, for example, it only makes sense to ask the surgeon how many procedures he or she has conducted. The more the better.

• Ask about board certification or any fellowships. That generally indicates a higher degree of specialization and practice involving procedures

Choose a General Surgeon Making the choice from your general surgeon candidates should be a decision that's blended between the factual information about your surgeon's certification and experience and the feedback you received during the interview with the surgeon.

As a graduate of Emory University, Dr. Andrew Harper is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and has been serving the Covington & Conyers communities since 1990. Please give his office a call to see if he would be a good fit for you at 770.922.4024.

You Can Trust!

Dr. Andrew Harper, MD 1301 Sigman Road NE, Suite 225 Conyers, GA 30012 770-922-4024 For your convenience, Dr. Harper sees patients on Thursday afternoons from 2-5pm in Covington at 5154 Cook Street NE, Covington.

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 22-23

helps patients manage pain while hospice provides special care to improve quality of life for both the patient

commonly performed by general surgeons.

• Ask about the surgeon's post-operative care and what you should expect following surgery.

SURGERY

or many seriously ill patients, hospice and palliative care offers a more dignified and comfortable

alternative to spending your final months in the impersonal environment of a hospital. Palliative medicine

• Consult family and friends. If you know someone who has had the same surgery, it's a great idea to ask about their surgeon and their results and expectations.

• Talk to physical therapists. Medical experts say that physical therapists, who routinely work with patients following surgery, are excellent resources for recommendations for general surgeons.

A home health nurse is a good resource for the same reason.

GENERAL

Call today for the next available appointment!

F

and their family. Seeking hospice and palliative care isn’t about giving up hope or hastening death, but rather a way to get the most appropriate care in the last phase of life.

What is Hospice and Palliative Care?

Although death is a natural part of life, the thought of dying understandably still frightens many people. You may imagine pain and loneliness, spending your final days in the cold, sterile environment of a hospital far from family, friends and all that you know and love. However, hospice care represents a compassionate approach to end-of-life care, enhancing the quality of remaining life and enabling you to live as fully and as comfortable, as possible.

Hospice is traditionally an option for people whose life expectancy is six months or less, and involves palliative care (pain and symptom relief) rather than ongoing curative measures, enabling you to live your last days to the fullest, with purpose, dignity, grace and support. While some hospitals, nursing homes and other health care facilities provide hospice care onsite, in most cases hospice is provided in the patient’s own home. This

enables you to spend your final days in a familiar, comfortable environment, surrounded by your loved ones who can focus more fully on you with the support of hospice staff.

How Hospice and Palliative Care Works Hospice care focuses on all aspects of a patient’s life and well being: physical, social, emotional and spiritual. There is no age restriction; anyone in the late stages of life is eligible for hospice services.

While specific hospice services around the world differ in the amenities they provide, most include a hospice interdisciplinary team, or IDT, that includes the patient’s physician, a hospice doctor, a case manager, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, a counselor, a dietician, therapist, pharmacologist, social workers, a minister and various trained volunteers.

The hospice team develops a care plan tailored to a patient's individual need for pain management

and symptom relief and provides all the necessary palliative drugs and therapies, medical supplies and equipment. Typically, hospice care is provided at home and a family member acts as the primary caregiver, supervised by professional medical staff. Hospice IDT members make regular visits to assess the patient and provide additional care and services, such as speech and physical therapy, therapeutic massage or dietary assistance. Certified home health aids may also be deployed for help with bathing and other personal care services.

Hospice staff remains on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

A hospice IDT also provides emotional and spiritual support according to the needs, wishes and beliefs of the patient. Emotional and spiritual support is also provided to the person's loved ones as well, including grief counseling.

Hernia Repair • Gallbladder • Appendix • Breast Biopsy Breast Cancer • Thyroid • Colon • Lipoma(s) •Sebaceous Cysts Hiradenitis • Hiatal Hernia •Hemorrhoids • Malignant Melanoma

The Hospice You Choose Really Can Make A Difference.

Pancreatic Disease • Speciality Services: Advanced Laparoscopic

Our hospice experts have the character, skill and ability to deliver quality care to all our patients. We promise to help you live all of your days with dignity.

Procedures

Dr. Andrew Harper, General Surgeon & his staff

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

compassionate care

that enables them to embrace the end of life with

dignity, courage and peace.

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

6/11/2014 8:36:07 AM

IS IT A

STROKE? TIME LOST is BRAIN LOST.

With a Stroke,

So it’s a good thing that Rockdale Medical Center’s ER is now a Certified Primary Stroke Center

BRYAN RIGGEAL, MD Medical Director, Rockdale Medical Center Stroke Program Rockdale Neurology Associates

Do you suffer from Seizures or been diagnosed with Epilepsy?

Please call our office to schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Candice Riggeal. Dr. Riggeal is fellowship trained in Epilepsy from Emory University.

Dr. Bryan Riggeal is fellowship trained in Neuro-Opthalmology from Emory University Department of Opthalmology.

Both Doctors Bryan and Candice Riggeal are board certified in Neurology.

CANDICE RIGGEAL, DO Neurology, Epilepsy

1255-B Commercial Drive, Conyers, Georgia 30094

Rockdale Medical earns stroke treatment center certification compiled from Staff Reports

R

ockdale Medical Center recently earned a high certification as a stroke treatment center from The Joint Commission, meaning local stroke patients have a higher chance of getting treatment within the critical “golden hour.”

Previously, stroke patients being transported by ambulance would have to be taken all the way to downtown Atlanta to the closest stroke treatment center, as required by law – a trip that could take 30 minutes or more.

Each minute without treatment during a stroke means more brain matter dies.

Being able to bring patients to RMC “means we’re saving more brain and preventing disability,” said Dr. Bryan Riggeal, neurologist and director of the Stroke Program at RMC, which started in December 2012.

“You can come to your local community hospital for stroke treatment and care without having to drive out of town,” said Karen Young, R.N. and director of RMC’s Emergency Room, who has had family members impacted by strokes. “The medication you can receive for certain types of strokes, you can now receive faster… It’s important for the public to know they can come straight here.”

Having certification also means a team of doctors, specialized nurses, therapists, dieticians, pharmacists and more is mobilized when a stroke patient is admitted to the stroke ward. About a third of stroke survivors experience another stroke, but wrap-around services like these often result in more effective lifestyle changes in the patient and fewer additional strokes, said Riggeal.

“The ability to provide excellent care is a result of

outstanding teamwork,” said RMC CEO Deborah Armstrong. “Under the direction of Dr. Brian Riggeal, neurologist/Stroke Program Director, and Emergency Department Director/Stroke Coordinator Karen Young, R.N., an in-house stroke team, made up of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, rehabilitation therapists and case managers, collaborates on patient care throughout the treatment process.”

“I also want to acknowledge the commitment of our partner, National EMS, for their role in helping Rockdale Medical Center to achieve Primary Stroke Certification,” Armstrong said. “Many times they are the first line of patient care and are able to identify a stroke, or stroke symptoms, while in the field. Having this information before the patient arrives at the hospital mean our Emergency Department personnel save valuable minutes in treatment time.”

RMC will be able to display The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval, their Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Centers. Displaying the seal signifies that RMC is providing the “next generation of stroke care,” and will help patients easily identify this facility as one of quality that has surpassed numerous goals in the treatment of stroke.

“In achieving Joint Commission advanced certification, Rockdale Medical Center has demonstrated its commitment to the highest level of care for its stroke patients,” said Jean Range, executive director of The Joint Commission’s Disease-Specific Care Certification, in a press release. “Certification is a voluntary process and The Joint Commission commends Rockdale Medical Center for successfully undertaking this challenge to elevate its standard of care and instill confidence in the community it serves.”

The Joint Commission, the organization that accredits hospitals, recognized RMC with Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Centers. That

means RMC has demonstrated that its program meets critical elements of performance to achieve long-term success in improving outcomes for stroke patients.

The Joint Commission made sure that RMC stroke patients are offered treatments that match a medical industry standard program. But it also made sure RMC tailors the treatments to each patient’s particular situation and needs. The certification also checked that stroke patients are offered ways to self-manage their disease.

The Joint Commission also checked various behind-the-scenes programs, such as ensuring that medical records transfer properly when a patient sees different doctors or therapists.

RMC underwent a rigorous on-site review last month and is required to update the Joint Commission on its practices. A Joint Commission expert reviewed RMC’s compliance with the requirements for The Joint Commission’s Disease-Specific Care Certification program as well as primary stroke center requirements, such as collecting Joint Commission core measure data and using it for performance improvement activities.

Developed in collaboration with the American Stroke Association and launched in 2003, The Joint Commission's Primary Stroke Center Certification program is based on the Brain Attack Coalition’s “Recommendations for the Establishment of Primary Stroke Centers.” Certification is available only to stroke programs in Joint Commission-accredited acute care hospitals such as RMC.

770.278.0154 • rockdaleneurology.com An Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center.

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 24-25

When minutes count:

HEALTHY IN NEWTON 25

6/11/2014 8:36:22 AM

IS IT A

STROKE? TIME LOST is BRAIN LOST.

With a Stroke,

So it’s a good thing that Rockdale Medical Center’s ER is now a Certified Primary Stroke Center

BRYAN RIGGEAL, MD Medical Director, Rockdale Medical Center Stroke Program Rockdale Neurology Associates

Do you suffer from Seizures or been diagnosed with Epilepsy?

Please call our office to schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Candice Riggeal. Dr. Riggeal is fellowship trained in Epilepsy from Emory University.

Dr. Bryan Riggeal is fellowship trained in Neuro-Opthalmology from Emory University Department of Opthalmology.

Both Doctors Bryan and Candice Riggeal are board certified in Neurology.

CANDICE RIGGEAL, DO Neurology, Epilepsy

1255-B Commercial Drive, Conyers, Georgia 30094

Rockdale Medical earns stroke treatment center certification compiled from Staff Reports

R

ockdale Medical Center recently earned a high certification as a stroke treatment center from The Joint Commission, meaning local stroke patients have a higher chance of getting treatment within the critical “golden hour.”

Previously, stroke patients being transported by ambulance would have to be taken all the way to downtown Atlanta to the closest stroke treatment center, as required by law – a trip that could take 30 minutes or more.

Each minute without treatment during a stroke means more brain matter dies.

Being able to bring patients to RMC “means we’re saving more brain and preventing disability,” said Dr. Bryan Riggeal, neurologist and director of the Stroke Program at RMC, which started in December 2012.

“You can come to your local community hospital for stroke treatment and care without having to drive out of town,” said Karen Young, R.N. and director of RMC’s Emergency Room, who has had family members impacted by strokes. “The medication you can receive for certain types of strokes, you can now receive faster… It’s important for the public to know they can come straight here.”

Having certification also means a team of doctors, specialized nurses, therapists, dieticians, pharmacists and more is mobilized when a stroke patient is admitted to the stroke ward. About a third of stroke survivors experience another stroke, but wrap-around services like these often result in more effective lifestyle changes in the patient and fewer additional strokes, said Riggeal.

“The ability to provide excellent care is a result of

outstanding teamwork,” said RMC CEO Deborah Armstrong. “Under the direction of Dr. Brian Riggeal, neurologist/Stroke Program Director, and Emergency Department Director/Stroke Coordinator Karen Young, R.N., an in-house stroke team, made up of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, rehabilitation therapists and case managers, collaborates on patient care throughout the treatment process.”

“I also want to acknowledge the commitment of our partner, National EMS, for their role in helping Rockdale Medical Center to achieve Primary Stroke Certification,” Armstrong said. “Many times they are the first line of patient care and are able to identify a stroke, or stroke symptoms, while in the field. Having this information before the patient arrives at the hospital mean our Emergency Department personnel save valuable minutes in treatment time.”

RMC will be able to display The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval, their Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Centers. Displaying the seal signifies that RMC is providing the “next generation of stroke care,” and will help patients easily identify this facility as one of quality that has surpassed numerous goals in the treatment of stroke.

“In achieving Joint Commission advanced certification, Rockdale Medical Center has demonstrated its commitment to the highest level of care for its stroke patients,” said Jean Range, executive director of The Joint Commission’s Disease-Specific Care Certification, in a press release. “Certification is a voluntary process and The Joint Commission commends Rockdale Medical Center for successfully undertaking this challenge to elevate its standard of care and instill confidence in the community it serves.”

The Joint Commission, the organization that accredits hospitals, recognized RMC with Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Centers. That

means RMC has demonstrated that its program meets critical elements of performance to achieve long-term success in improving outcomes for stroke patients.

The Joint Commission made sure that RMC stroke patients are offered treatments that match a medical industry standard program. But it also made sure RMC tailors the treatments to each patient’s particular situation and needs. The certification also checked that stroke patients are offered ways to self-manage their disease.

The Joint Commission also checked various behind-the-scenes programs, such as ensuring that medical records transfer properly when a patient sees different doctors or therapists.

RMC underwent a rigorous on-site review last month and is required to update the Joint Commission on its practices. A Joint Commission expert reviewed RMC’s compliance with the requirements for The Joint Commission’s Disease-Specific Care Certification program as well as primary stroke center requirements, such as collecting Joint Commission core measure data and using it for performance improvement activities.

Developed in collaboration with the American Stroke Association and launched in 2003, The Joint Commission's Primary Stroke Center Certification program is based on the Brain Attack Coalition’s “Recommendations for the Establishment of Primary Stroke Centers.” Certification is available only to stroke programs in Joint Commission-accredited acute care hospitals such as RMC.

770.278.0154 • rockdaleneurology.com An Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center.

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 24-25

When minutes count:

HEALTHY IN NEWTON 25

6/11/2014 8:36:22 AM

When medicine,

lifestyle changes and other non-invasive treatments cannot ease your symptoms, your doctor may recommend gynecologic surgery. Women facing gynecologic conditions such as fibroid tumors, endometriosis, heavy menstrual bleeding, cancer and pelvic prolapsed often undergo surgery.

Gynecologic Surgery Open Surgery With open surgery, a large incision is made in your abdomen - large enough for your surgeon to fit his/her hands and instruments inside your body. For generations, open surgery has been the standard approach to many gynecologic procedures and is still used today. However, with open surgery there are certain drawbacks and trauma to the body due to the large incision.

There are less invasive surgical options for many women facing gynecologic surgery.

Minimally Invasive Surgery The most common minimally invasive surgery is laparoscopy. Instead of a large open incision, surgery is done through a few small incisions using a tiny camera and long, thin surgical instruments. The camera takes images inside your body and those images are sent to a video monitor in the operating room which guides surgeons as they operate.

da Vinci® Surgery da Vinci Surgery is another minimally invasive option for women facing gynecologic surgery.

With da Vinci, surgeons make just a few small incisions - similar to traditional laparoscopy. The da Vinci System features a magnified 3D high-definition vision system and special wristed instruments that bend and rotate far greater than the human wrist. As a result, da Vinci enables your surgeon to operate with enhanced vision, precision, dexterity and control.

State-of-the-art da Vinci uses the latest in surgical and robotics technologies and is beneficial for performing complex surgery. Your surgeon is 100% in control of the da Vinci System, which translates his or her hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside your body.

In addition to using the da Vinci surgical system for your gynecologic surgery needs, Advanced Gynecology Associates assists patients with all of their general gynecologic needs. Please call our office to see how we can better assist you at 678.609.4913.

At Advanced Gynecology Associates we seek to provide the highest level of patient care through our highly skilled health care professionals using state of the art technologies. We are devoted to addressing the individual needs and demands of patients in a warm and caring environment.

Erin Mayfield, DO Gynecology

5154 Cook Street NE Covington, GA 30014 678.609.4913

www.advgynassoc.com

Our services include:

Holly Imlach, MD

Gynecology & Gynecologic Surgery

1380 Milstead Ave. NE, Suite E Conyers, GA 30012 678.609.4913

➢ General gynecologic care (Includes pelvic ultrasound in office) ➢ Urogynecology (Urodynamics in office, Urinary and fecal incontinence evaluation and treatment ➢ Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (da Vinci® Sacrocolpopexy) ➢ Infertility evaluation, testing and treatment ➢ GYN surgery of all types ➢ Minimally invasive surgery (Advanced laparoscopic & hysteroscopic surgery, da Vinci® Hysterectomy, da Vinci® Myomectomy, Single Incision Surgery ➢ Contraception counseling and procedures (Essure - in office tubal ligation, Implanon - progesterone implant, Mirena IUD ➢ Treatment for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (Uterine endometrial ablation - in office or outpatient surgery

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 26-27

Newton Medical Center is pleased to announce an exciting, new program in breast cancer care, through the Women’s Diagnostic Center.

B

reast Patient Navigation is a patient support service in which a specially trained nurse navigator guides patients through the cancer care system. The nurse navigator assists patients in working through the many barriers and fears they may face during cancer care. Often, patients face gaps in service and fragmented care. The navigator works to get rid of those barriers.

The Navigation program makes sure that all patients with suspicious findings receive all the information and assistance they need to help them obtain: • Follow –up care • Timely diagnosis • Timely treatment when necessary This will make for better outcomes along with greater patient satisfaction.

The navigation program is on the cutting edge of healthcare initiatives. Many of the larger hospitals in Metro Atlanta have developed these programs. Newton Medical Center is proud to be the first in our area to do so.

Navigators assist patients by offering a broad array of services, including: • Helping schedule and keep medical appointments both within the Women’s Diagnostic Center and outside the facility • Arrange follow up care • Coordinating and streamlining insurance paperwork or to obtain information from the insurance companies regarding what care is covered under the patients particular plan

• Identifying local resources and appropriate support, such as, the Hope Boutique and Breast Cancer Support Group.

• Helping to identify and obtain elder or child care or transportation Our goal for this program includes meeting with patients at the time they are notified of the biopsy recommendation, being present for the biopsy, and following that patient through the end of her needed care. We plan to do this for 100 % of the women who come into and trust our facility.

Results from navigation programs from around the nation have shown that navigated patients: • Were more likely to obtain recommended breast biopsies ( 85.7 % of navigated patients compared to 56.6 % of non navigated patients) • Had their biopsies completed in a more

timely manner - 71.4 % of biopsies being completed before 4 weeks compared with 38.5 % of non navigated patients • Showed improvements in the stage of breast cancer at diagnosis and 5-year survival rates, after improved access to cancer screenings and initiation of a patient navigation program.

Newton Medical Center is proud to introduce our patient navigator, Wendy Hankins, RN, CBPN-IC, to our health care community.

To find out more about the Breast Cancer Patient Navigation Program at Newton Medical Center and to find out how you can become involved, contact Wendy Hankins at 770-3857826.

Let Wendy and our well trained and qualified team return you to health after a breast cancer diagnosis.

Protect Your Life…Get a Mammogram.

Because early detection is the key to surviving breast cancer. The Women's Diagnostic Center is pleased to offer you this special discount for a screening digital mammogram.

Only $125 (Regularly $365)

• Call for an appointment: 770-385-7800 • Bring this coupon with you - $125 must be paid in full.

• The radiologist's fee is included.

The Women's Diagnostic Center ~ 4181 Hospital Drive, Suite 301 ~ Covington, GA 30014

HEALTHY IN NEWTON 27

6/11/2014 8:36:36 AM

When medicine,

lifestyle changes and other non-invasive treatments cannot ease your symptoms, your doctor may recommend gynecologic surgery. Women facing gynecologic conditions such as fibroid tumors, endometriosis, heavy menstrual bleeding, cancer and pelvic prolapsed often undergo surgery.

Gynecologic Surgery Open Surgery With open surgery, a large incision is made in your abdomen - large enough for your surgeon to fit his/her hands and instruments inside your body. For generations, open surgery has been the standard approach to many gynecologic procedures and is still used today. However, with open surgery there are certain drawbacks and trauma to the body due to the large incision.

There are less invasive surgical options for many women facing gynecologic surgery.

Minimally Invasive Surgery The most common minimally invasive surgery is laparoscopy. Instead of a large open incision, surgery is done through a few small incisions using a tiny camera and long, thin surgical instruments. The camera takes images inside your body and those images are sent to a video monitor in the operating room which guides surgeons as they operate.

da Vinci® Surgery da Vinci Surgery is another minimally invasive option for women facing gynecologic surgery.

With da Vinci, surgeons make just a few small incisions - similar to traditional laparoscopy. The da Vinci System features a magnified 3D high-definition vision system and special wristed instruments that bend and rotate far greater than the human wrist. As a result, da Vinci enables your surgeon to operate with enhanced vision, precision, dexterity and control.

State-of-the-art da Vinci uses the latest in surgical and robotics technologies and is beneficial for performing complex surgery. Your surgeon is 100% in control of the da Vinci System, which translates his or her hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside your body.

In addition to using the da Vinci surgical system for your gynecologic surgery needs, Advanced Gynecology Associates assists patients with all of their general gynecologic needs. Please call our office to see how we can better assist you at 678.609.4913.

At Advanced Gynecology Associates we seek to provide the highest level of patient care through our highly skilled health care professionals using state of the art technologies. We are devoted to addressing the individual needs and demands of patients in a warm and caring environment.

Erin Mayfield, DO Gynecology

5154 Cook Street NE Covington, GA 30014 678.609.4913

www.advgynassoc.com

Our services include:

Holly Imlach, MD

Gynecology & Gynecologic Surgery

1380 Milstead Ave. NE, Suite E Conyers, GA 30012 678.609.4913

➢ General gynecologic care (Includes pelvic ultrasound in office) ➢ Urogynecology (Urodynamics in office, Urinary and fecal incontinence evaluation and treatment ➢ Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (da Vinci® Sacrocolpopexy) ➢ Infertility evaluation, testing and treatment ➢ GYN surgery of all types ➢ Minimally invasive surgery (Advanced laparoscopic & hysteroscopic surgery, da Vinci® Hysterectomy, da Vinci® Myomectomy, Single Incision Surgery ➢ Contraception counseling and procedures (Essure - in office tubal ligation, Implanon - progesterone implant, Mirena IUD ➢ Treatment for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (Uterine endometrial ablation - in office or outpatient surgery

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 26-27

Newton Medical Center is pleased to announce an exciting, new program in breast cancer care, through the Women’s Diagnostic Center.

B

reast Patient Navigation is a patient support service in which a specially trained nurse navigator guides patients through the cancer care system. The nurse navigator assists patients in working through the many barriers and fears they may face during cancer care. Often, patients face gaps in service and fragmented care. The navigator works to get rid of those barriers.

The Navigation program makes sure that all patients with suspicious findings receive all the information and assistance they need to help them obtain: • Follow –up care • Timely diagnosis • Timely treatment when necessary This will make for better outcomes along with greater patient satisfaction.

The navigation program is on the cutting edge of healthcare initiatives. Many of the larger hospitals in Metro Atlanta have developed these programs. Newton Medical Center is proud to be the first in our area to do so.

Navigators assist patients by offering a broad array of services, including: • Helping schedule and keep medical appointments both within the Women’s Diagnostic Center and outside the facility • Arrange follow up care • Coordinating and streamlining insurance paperwork or to obtain information from the insurance companies regarding what care is covered under the patients particular plan

• Identifying local resources and appropriate support, such as, the Hope Boutique and Breast Cancer Support Group.

• Helping to identify and obtain elder or child care or transportation Our goal for this program includes meeting with patients at the time they are notified of the biopsy recommendation, being present for the biopsy, and following that patient through the end of her needed care. We plan to do this for 100 % of the women who come into and trust our facility.

Results from navigation programs from around the nation have shown that navigated patients: • Were more likely to obtain recommended breast biopsies ( 85.7 % of navigated patients compared to 56.6 % of non navigated patients) • Had their biopsies completed in a more

timely manner - 71.4 % of biopsies being completed before 4 weeks compared with 38.5 % of non navigated patients • Showed improvements in the stage of breast cancer at diagnosis and 5-year survival rates, after improved access to cancer screenings and initiation of a patient navigation program.

Newton Medical Center is proud to introduce our patient navigator, Wendy Hankins, RN, CBPN-IC, to our health care community.

To find out more about the Breast Cancer Patient Navigation Program at Newton Medical Center and to find out how you can become involved, contact Wendy Hankins at 770-3857826.

Let Wendy and our well trained and qualified team return you to health after a breast cancer diagnosis.

Protect Your Life…Get a Mammogram.

Because early detection is the key to surviving breast cancer. The Women's Diagnostic Center is pleased to offer you this special discount for a screening digital mammogram.

Only $125 (Regularly $365)

• Call for an appointment: 770-385-7800 • Bring this coupon with you - $125 must be paid in full.

• The radiologist's fee is included.

The Women's Diagnostic Center ~ 4181 Hospital Drive, Suite 301 ~ Covington, GA 30014

HEALTHY IN NEWTON 27

6/11/2014 8:36:36 AM

mellow on the yellow

Selecting the Doctor Who is Right For

SUMMER PADDLE SERIES

W

hen choosing a doctor, there's a lot to think about: Experience, specialty, online access, professional interests, health plans and more. So we've put together a list of questions to ask yourself when choosing a doctor.

saturdays 5/17 6/14 7/12 8/16

Are you choosing a Primary Care Physician?

One of the best ways to make sure you’re getting excellent health care is to have a primary care physician (PCP) with whom you can build a long-term relationship — someone who knows your medical background and understands what’s important to you. Traditionally PCPs fall into three specialties – Family Medicine (treating patients of all ages), Internal Medicine (treating adult patients) or Pediatrics (treating children from birth through adolescence).

Women will often choose a Gynecologist or Obstetrician for their primary care needs.

When you have a physician you know and trust, you feel comfortable talking about anything. And, all your basic care — including routine exams, preventive care and treatment for illnesses or injuries — goes more smoothly and easily.

Your PCP also knows when it’s best to refer you to a specialist.

have volunteers from our local community providing Adopt A Stream info, water quality, river history, water trail development, etc and paddling with you. A great day to enjoy the river, learn more about the habitat and fall in love with a beautiful paddle destination. Come on out and get mellow on the Yellow.

Time: 10:00am - 2:00pm ~ Length: approx 7 miles ~ Meet: Porterdale Yak Club 10:00am Option 1: Boat rental with shuttle service to put-in, sack lunch from Plain Nuts, Insurance ~ $40.00 Option 2: ( Bring your own boat.) Shuttle service to put-in, sack lunch, Insurance ~ $20.00

}

As this function begins and ends in the beautiful Mill Village of Porterdale, please feel free to come early for coffee at Argyle's Coffee House, stay for dinner and live music at Jimbo's Bar & Grill or just explore on foot. All within walking distance to the Yellow River.

Let's make Summer 2014 - the best it can be on the Yellow River and Porterdale.

Spread the news of the beauty of our river far and wide…

See you on the river soon!

Tonya Bechtler, Chairman & Public Outreach Yellow River Water Trail www.yellowriverwatertrail.org ~ info@yellowriverwatertrail.org tonyabechtler@gmail.com ~ cell (770) 364-0911

28 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 28-29

Check us out on…

Updated Daily!

and email their doctors.

Are you more comfortable with a male or a female doctor?

Discussing health issues and treatments can be a very personal experience.

It’s important that you are comfortable talking to your doctor about any medical situation that may come up. Deciding whether you prefer a male or female doctor can ensure that you are as comfortable as possible.

Does the doctor accept your health insurance?

To avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket health care expenses, you will want to find a doctor who accepts your health insurance. While most of the doctors affiliated with Rockdale Medical Center accept most major health plans, you will want to check to make certain that yours is on the list.

If you are looking with a Primary Care Physician, please feel free to come in and meet Dr. Anne Grant in Covington, Georgia to see if she could be a good match for you.

Premier Internal Medicine Walk-ins Welcome No Appointment Necessary

Visit us at our new Covington Location!

5294 Adams Street, Covington Hwy 278

✪

Gordy Street

portion of the trail (Mt. Tabor Bridge access to Porterdale Mill Village access). On each paddle we will

Do you want to be able to access your doctor’s office online?

Many doctors now offer convenient online services, so patients can use the web to view test results, renew prescriptions, request appointments

Adams Street

Come out and enjoy a Saturday this summer on the beautiful Yellow River Water Trail. Our Summer Series for 2014 will focus solely on the Newton County

Cook Street

Yellow River Water Trail

{

You!

Newton Drive

Call the office today to schedule your new patient appointment - 770-787-5600.

Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Friday 8am to 5pm • Wednesday & Thursday 12pm to 7pm Also open the first Saturday of each month from 9am-2pm.

*An affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center* We accept all major insurance plans! New Medicare Patients Welcome!

Dr. Grant, Board Certified in Internal Medicine, sees patients ages 15 and over.

6/11/2014 8:36:59 AM

mellow on the yellow

Selecting the Doctor Who is Right For

SUMMER PADDLE SERIES

W

hen choosing a doctor, there's a lot to think about: Experience, specialty, online access, professional interests, health plans and more. So we've put together a list of questions to ask yourself when choosing a doctor.

saturdays 5/17 6/14 7/12 8/16

Are you choosing a Primary Care Physician?

One of the best ways to make sure you’re getting excellent health care is to have a primary care physician (PCP) with whom you can build a long-term relationship — someone who knows your medical background and understands what’s important to you. Traditionally PCPs fall into three specialties – Family Medicine (treating patients of all ages), Internal Medicine (treating adult patients) or Pediatrics (treating children from birth through adolescence).

Women will often choose a Gynecologist or Obstetrician for their primary care needs.

When you have a physician you know and trust, you feel comfortable talking about anything. And, all your basic care — including routine exams, preventive care and treatment for illnesses or injuries — goes more smoothly and easily.

Your PCP also knows when it’s best to refer you to a specialist.

have volunteers from our local community providing Adopt A Stream info, water quality, river history, water trail development, etc and paddling with you. A great day to enjoy the river, learn more about the habitat and fall in love with a beautiful paddle destination. Come on out and get mellow on the Yellow.

Time: 10:00am - 2:00pm ~ Length: approx 7 miles ~ Meet: Porterdale Yak Club 10:00am Option 1: Boat rental with shuttle service to put-in, sack lunch from Plain Nuts, Insurance ~ $40.00 Option 2: ( Bring your own boat.) Shuttle service to put-in, sack lunch, Insurance ~ $20.00

}

As this function begins and ends in the beautiful Mill Village of Porterdale, please feel free to come early for coffee at Argyle's Coffee House, stay for dinner and live music at Jimbo's Bar & Grill or just explore on foot. All within walking distance to the Yellow River.

Let's make Summer 2014 - the best it can be on the Yellow River and Porterdale.

Spread the news of the beauty of our river far and wide…

See you on the river soon!

Tonya Bechtler, Chairman & Public Outreach Yellow River Water Trail www.yellowriverwatertrail.org ~ info@yellowriverwatertrail.org tonyabechtler@gmail.com ~ cell (770) 364-0911

28 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 28-29

Check us out on…

Updated Daily!

and email their doctors.

Are you more comfortable with a male or a female doctor?

Discussing health issues and treatments can be a very personal experience.

It’s important that you are comfortable talking to your doctor about any medical situation that may come up. Deciding whether you prefer a male or female doctor can ensure that you are as comfortable as possible.

Does the doctor accept your health insurance?

To avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket health care expenses, you will want to find a doctor who accepts your health insurance. While most of the doctors affiliated with Rockdale Medical Center accept most major health plans, you will want to check to make certain that yours is on the list.

If you are looking with a Primary Care Physician, please feel free to come in and meet Dr. Anne Grant in Covington, Georgia to see if she could be a good match for you.

Premier Internal Medicine Walk-ins Welcome No Appointment Necessary

Visit us at our new Covington Location!

5294 Adams Street, Covington Hwy 278

✪

Gordy Street

portion of the trail (Mt. Tabor Bridge access to Porterdale Mill Village access). On each paddle we will

Do you want to be able to access your doctor’s office online?

Many doctors now offer convenient online services, so patients can use the web to view test results, renew prescriptions, request appointments

Adams Street

Come out and enjoy a Saturday this summer on the beautiful Yellow River Water Trail. Our Summer Series for 2014 will focus solely on the Newton County

Cook Street

Yellow River Water Trail

{

You!

Newton Drive

Call the office today to schedule your new patient appointment - 770-787-5600.

Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Friday 8am to 5pm • Wednesday & Thursday 12pm to 7pm Also open the first Saturday of each month from 9am-2pm.

*An affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center* We accept all major insurance plans! New Medicare Patients Welcome!

Dr. Grant, Board Certified in Internal Medicine, sees patients ages 15 and over.

6/11/2014 8:36:59 AM



About I

HIGH I Blood Pressure

f you have hypertension, you'll need to take action to protect your health and reduce your chances of developing serious, even fatal, health issues. And while medication can bring high blood pressure down, there's more that you can do to improve your condition, like sticking to a diet that is known to help control hypertension.

Foods to Avoid When You Have High Blood Pressure Your doctor probably already told you to lay off fattening hamburgers and salty fries as part of your hypertension diet, but there are foods you may not consider harmful that can wreak havoc on your blood pressure. The main culprit when it comes to skyrocketing blood pressure levels is sodium, found in more foods that you might expect.

Steer clear of or limit these high-sodium foods in your hypertension diet: Dried, preserved, or salted meats, like bacon, ham, beef jerky and pepperoni; Heavily salted snacks, like peanuts, chips, or crackers; Canned foods and meals, including vegetables and soups; Frozen foods and dinners; Sauces, condiments, and marinades; Table salt or salty seasonings.

Foods That Help Manage High Blood Pressure There are plenty of foods that can actually help lower high blood pressure. Studies show that potassium is very important in helping to lower high blood pressure and is a key ingredient in a diet that helps reduce hypertension. Choose these high-potassium, low-sodium fruits and vegetables: Raisins, prunes and prune juice; Citrus fruits and juices; Honeydew, cantaloupe and watermelons; Avocados; Apples and apple juice; Bananas; Fresh corn; Cooked squash, eggplant, cabbage and cauliflower; Lima beans and peas; Peppers and radishes; Baked or boiled potatoes .

A good way to make sure you're getting exactly what you need to normalize your blood pressure is to follow the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet (DASH). The DASH eating plan was developed to help lower blood pressure and boost heart health, based on research supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Here are the key parts of the DASH hypertension diet: • Two to three daily servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy products (serving sizes include 1 cup milk or yogurt)

trusted

CARE

• Four to five daily servings of fruits and vegetables (serving sizes include 1 cup leafy vegetable, 1 medium-size fruit, one-half cup juice) • Six to eight daily servings of whole grains (serving sizes include 1 slice of bread, 1 ounce dry cereal) • Less than six daily servings of lean protein (serving sizes include 1 egg, 1 ounce cooked meat or fish) • Two to three daily servings of healthy fats and oils (serving sizes include 1 teaspoon vegetable oil or soft margarine, 1 tablespoon mayonnaise) • Four to five weekly servings of seeds, nuts, and legumes (serving sizes include 2 tablespoons peanut butter or seeds) • No more than five weekly servings of desserts and sweets (serving sizes include 1 tablespoon sugar or jam) Managing hypertension with diet is all about reading the labels — it helps to know what you're putting into your body, and how food affects blood pressure.

Lightening the Load of Spousal

Caregiving

Fnot just in the room, but overtaking the room. On many days, the elephant of illness, disabil-

or many of the approximately 6 million spousal caregivers in the United States, the elephant is

ity and aging will not budge for the spouse who steps in as a home caregiver to help maintain the partner’s health.

Caregiving for one’s husband or wife is rewarding, yet at times daunting and overwhelming.

As care needs increase and the length of illness stretches into months, years or even decades, a caregiver spouse is vulnerable to common stress-related conditions including anxiety, depression, headaches, backaches and sleep deprivation. The unrelenting responsibility fuels fatigue. Resentments also can build against other family members who are not as available to help.

In a 2010 MetLife “Study of Working Caregivers and Employer Health Care Costs,” 17 percent of female caregivers age 50 and older reported fair or poor health compared with just 9 percent of non-caregivers. To escape and ease the overload, isolation and even anger that can stem from attending to a spouse’s daily personal care, some marital caregivers turn to the abuse of alcohol and drugs. Eventually, care for an ailing loved one can lead to burnout in which the caregiver is depleted physically, mentally and emotionally.

Over time, adult home care can be too much of a burden for a spouse, yet hesitations can arise over enlisting a professional care giving service for help. After managing the care for so long, some spouses find it difficult to relinquish their home caregiver duties to someone else. Others struggle with guilt for no longer being able to provide the necessary care. Still others are not convinced anyone else will oversee their spouse’s health as well as they can.

Senior care support services can include help with bathing and dressing, grocery shopping, errand running, meal planning and preparation, transportation to appointments, medication monitoring, light housework, and respite relief. From a few hours a day to overnight or round-the-clock care, home care providers offer compassionate expertise and care tailored to the client’s needs.

“Home healthcare aides are becoming increasingly vital in our society as more and more seniors choose to age at home,” Mark Ross, Agency Director at Right at Home, added. “Selecting professional home care services does help prevent caregiver burnout and still lets you maintain the control and quality of the care your loved one deserves.”

We treat a wide range of conditions including: Flu, Fever, Cough & Cold, Rashes & Allergic Reactions, Animal & Insect Bites, Skins Rashes & Infections, Women’s Health, Diabetes, Hypertension & more

770-787-5600

Open Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

5294 Adams Street, NE, Covington

Most Insurance Plans Welcome • Walk-Ins Accepted

Dr. Wendell Smith IN CASE OF A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY DIAL 911.

ALWAYS CALL 911DIALDIAL 911

An Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center.

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 30-31

6/11/2014 8:53:12 AM



About I

HIGH I Blood Pressure

f you have hypertension, you'll need to take action to protect your health and reduce your chances of developing serious, even fatal, health issues. And while medication can bring high blood pressure down, there's more that you can do to improve your condition, like sticking to a diet that is known to help control hypertension.

Foods to Avoid When You Have High Blood Pressure Your doctor probably already told you to lay off fattening hamburgers and salty fries as part of your hypertension diet, but there are foods you may not consider harmful that can wreak havoc on your blood pressure. The main culprit when it comes to skyrocketing blood pressure levels is sodium, found in more foods that you might expect.

Steer clear of or limit these high-sodium foods in your hypertension diet: Dried, preserved, or salted meats, like bacon, ham, beef jerky and pepperoni; Heavily salted snacks, like peanuts, chips, or crackers; Canned foods and meals, including vegetables and soups; Frozen foods and dinners; Sauces, condiments, and marinades; Table salt or salty seasonings.

Foods That Help Manage High Blood Pressure There are plenty of foods that can actually help lower high blood pressure. Studies show that potassium is very important in helping to lower high blood pressure and is a key ingredient in a diet that helps reduce hypertension. Choose these high-potassium, low-sodium fruits and vegetables: Raisins, prunes and prune juice; Citrus fruits and juices; Honeydew, cantaloupe and watermelons; Avocados; Apples and apple juice; Bananas; Fresh corn; Cooked squash, eggplant, cabbage and cauliflower; Lima beans and peas; Peppers and radishes; Baked or boiled potatoes .

A good way to make sure you're getting exactly what you need to normalize your blood pressure is to follow the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet (DASH). The DASH eating plan was developed to help lower blood pressure and boost heart health, based on research supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Here are the key parts of the DASH hypertension diet: • Two to three daily servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy products (serving sizes include 1 cup milk or yogurt)

trusted

CARE

• Four to five daily servings of fruits and vegetables (serving sizes include 1 cup leafy vegetable, 1 medium-size fruit, one-half cup juice) • Six to eight daily servings of whole grains (serving sizes include 1 slice of bread, 1 ounce dry cereal) • Less than six daily servings of lean protein (serving sizes include 1 egg, 1 ounce cooked meat or fish) • Two to three daily servings of healthy fats and oils (serving sizes include 1 teaspoon vegetable oil or soft margarine, 1 tablespoon mayonnaise) • Four to five weekly servings of seeds, nuts, and legumes (serving sizes include 2 tablespoons peanut butter or seeds) • No more than five weekly servings of desserts and sweets (serving sizes include 1 tablespoon sugar or jam) Managing hypertension with diet is all about reading the labels — it helps to know what you're putting into your body, and how food affects blood pressure.

Lightening the Load of Spousal

Caregiving

Fnot just in the room, but overtaking the room. On many days, the elephant of illness, disabil-

or many of the approximately 6 million spousal caregivers in the United States, the elephant is

ity and aging will not budge for the spouse who steps in as a home caregiver to help maintain the partner’s health.

Caregiving for one’s husband or wife is rewarding, yet at times daunting and overwhelming.

As care needs increase and the length of illness stretches into months, years or even decades, a caregiver spouse is vulnerable to common stress-related conditions including anxiety, depression, headaches, backaches and sleep deprivation. The unrelenting responsibility fuels fatigue. Resentments also can build against other family members who are not as available to help.

In a 2010 MetLife “Study of Working Caregivers and Employer Health Care Costs,” 17 percent of female caregivers age 50 and older reported fair or poor health compared with just 9 percent of non-caregivers. To escape and ease the overload, isolation and even anger that can stem from attending to a spouse’s daily personal care, some marital caregivers turn to the abuse of alcohol and drugs. Eventually, care for an ailing loved one can lead to burnout in which the caregiver is depleted physically, mentally and emotionally.

Over time, adult home care can be too much of a burden for a spouse, yet hesitations can arise over enlisting a professional care giving service for help. After managing the care for so long, some spouses find it difficult to relinquish their home caregiver duties to someone else. Others struggle with guilt for no longer being able to provide the necessary care. Still others are not convinced anyone else will oversee their spouse’s health as well as they can.

Senior care support services can include help with bathing and dressing, grocery shopping, errand running, meal planning and preparation, transportation to appointments, medication monitoring, light housework, and respite relief. From a few hours a day to overnight or round-the-clock care, home care providers offer compassionate expertise and care tailored to the client’s needs.

“Home healthcare aides are becoming increasingly vital in our society as more and more seniors choose to age at home,” Mark Ross, Agency Director at Right at Home, added. “Selecting professional home care services does help prevent caregiver burnout and still lets you maintain the control and quality of the care your loved one deserves.”

We treat a wide range of conditions including: Flu, Fever, Cough & Cold, Rashes & Allergic Reactions, Animal & Insect Bites, Skins Rashes & Infections, Women’s Health, Diabetes, Hypertension & more

770-787-5600

Open Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

5294 Adams Street, NE, Covington

Most Insurance Plans Welcome • Walk-Ins Accepted

Dr. Wendell Smith IN CASE OF A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY DIAL 911.

ALWAYS CALL 911DIALDIAL 911

An Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center.

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 30-31

6/11/2014 8:53:12 AM

NEWTON COUNTY COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

BE

NEWTON

H

ealthy, fit development begins at birth and greatly affects children’s ability to learn. When kids are on track physically, socially and emotionally, they are more successful learners, strong readers and eventually more gainfully employed, passing on healthy fit lifestyle choices to their own families.

Your Local Georgia Family Connection Collaborative Organization

Our Family Connection collaborative serves as the local decision-making body, bringing community partners together to develop, implement, and evaluate plans that address the

You Can be Healthy: Students at Mansfield Elementary School raced to eat healthy in the School Nutrition Program’s Fruit & Vegetable Challenge as part of a Ga. Family Connection Grant.

YOU CAN be part of the Be Healthy Newton cycle!

• You can be part of the conversation. Find Newton Partnership: A Georgia Family Connection Collaborative on Facebook.

• You can be part of the action with Hands On Newton. Find volunteer opportunities at www.volunteermatch.org, search Hands On Newton.

• You can be part of the solution. Eat more fruits and vegetables, and find fitness opportunities that suit you!

serious challenges facing Georgia’s children and families.

Newton Partnership is a Georgia Family Connection Collaborative building strong families, supporting effective education and establishing nurturing communities. Call 770-786-0807 for more information.

BE INSPIRED...

Volunteers work in The Garden of Hope, a community garden operated by Hands On Newton, to grow vegetables for donation to local food pantries

at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit.

NCCP networks with many local resources and celebrates all that Newton has to offer for children and families. Trails are gaining a great deal of support as passive recreation for all ages in Newton County. Newton Trails & Yellow River Water Trail are the groups spearheading these efforts on land and water.

isitors are welcome year-round at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, the inspirational home of Georgia’s Trappist Monks. Nestled on 2,300 acres in Conyers, the Monastery offers a scenic and peaceful environment to explore.

We want our kids to be healthy, ready to start school and do well when they get

Experience a day in the life of a monk, or learn about the Trappists in Georgia at the Historic Museum. See the beautiful Abbey Church. Browse through the Bonsai Garden, Bonsai Nursery and gift shop. Visit the Abbey Store for monk-made biscotti, fruitcake, fudge, free trade items and the largest selection of Christian books in the state.

Stay for the day – or experience our overnight retreats.

there. We want our families to be stable P.O. Box 445 • Covington, GA 30015-0445

and self-sufficient, and we want them

Phone: 770-786-0807

to live in strong communities.

www.newton-gafcp.org

We’ve been making that happen for more than 20 years.

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 32-33

www.trappist.net For more Conyers information call 1.800.CONYERS

6/11/2014 8:37:43 AM

NEWTON COUNTY COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

BE

NEWTON

H

ealthy, fit development begins at birth and greatly affects children’s ability to learn. When kids are on track physically, socially and emotionally, they are more successful learners, strong readers and eventually more gainfully employed, passing on healthy fit lifestyle choices to their own families.

Your Local Georgia Family Connection Collaborative Organization

Our Family Connection collaborative serves as the local decision-making body, bringing community partners together to develop, implement, and evaluate plans that address the

You Can be Healthy: Students at Mansfield Elementary School raced to eat healthy in the School Nutrition Program’s Fruit & Vegetable Challenge as part of a Ga. Family Connection Grant.

YOU CAN be part of the Be Healthy Newton cycle!

• You can be part of the conversation. Find Newton Partnership: A Georgia Family Connection Collaborative on Facebook.

• You can be part of the action with Hands On Newton. Find volunteer opportunities at www.volunteermatch.org, search Hands On Newton.

• You can be part of the solution. Eat more fruits and vegetables, and find fitness opportunities that suit you!

serious challenges facing Georgia’s children and families.

Newton Partnership is a Georgia Family Connection Collaborative building strong families, supporting effective education and establishing nurturing communities. Call 770-786-0807 for more information.

BE INSPIRED...

Volunteers work in The Garden of Hope, a community garden operated by Hands On Newton, to grow vegetables for donation to local food pantries

at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit.

NCCP networks with many local resources and celebrates all that Newton has to offer for children and families. Trails are gaining a great deal of support as passive recreation for all ages in Newton County. Newton Trails & Yellow River Water Trail are the groups spearheading these efforts on land and water.

isitors are welcome year-round at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, the inspirational home of Georgia’s Trappist Monks. Nestled on 2,300 acres in Conyers, the Monastery offers a scenic and peaceful environment to explore.

We want our kids to be healthy, ready to start school and do well when they get

Experience a day in the life of a monk, or learn about the Trappists in Georgia at the Historic Museum. See the beautiful Abbey Church. Browse through the Bonsai Garden, Bonsai Nursery and gift shop. Visit the Abbey Store for monk-made biscotti, fruitcake, fudge, free trade items and the largest selection of Christian books in the state.

Stay for the day – or experience our overnight retreats.

there. We want our families to be stable P.O. Box 445 • Covington, GA 30015-0445

and self-sufficient, and we want them

Phone: 770-786-0807

to live in strong communities.

www.newton-gafcp.org

We’ve been making that happen for more than 20 years.

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 32-33

www.trappist.net For more Conyers information call 1.800.CONYERS

6/11/2014 8:37:43 AM

What is an

?

Audiologist A

udiologists are health care professionals who are trained in the diagnosis, treatment and management of hearing loss, balance disorders and other associated conditions. Audiologists are trained to carry out detailed assessments by performing a number of specialized auditory (hearing) and vestibular (balance tests). They are trained to make recommendations for medical treatment when needed. Audiologists are trained to fit hearing aids and adjust the hearing aid gradually with appropriate communication strategies.

An audiologist can work in a variety of settings and is trained to work with all ages, from babies to elderly patients. Some audiologists work with schools and provide diagnostics and auditory training support to hearing-impaired students. Other audiologists may work in private practice, ENT offices or hospitals, assessing hearing and balance disorders. Audiologists must also monitor the newborn infant screenings now required at hospitals. They may also work in areas of research or industrial businesses, managing noise exposure levels and monitoring the employees' hearing and providing instruction and education of ear protection.

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

FOR PEOPLE WITH HEARING LOSS

Audiologists are not medical doctors, but a master's or doctorate degree in Audiology is required for licensure. Since 28 million Americans suffer from some form of hearing impairment, the work an audiologist does is essential in our society today.

The causes of hearing loss in our society vary. Hearing loss can be a result of noise exposure, trauma, hereditary factors or the natural aging process. Other causes of hearing loss include ototoxic (toxic to the ear/hearing) medications, head injuries, tumors, ear disease, certain medications and illnesses such as diabetes.

Contact Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists of Conyers for your local audiologist if you have concerns about your hearing, or if you have related symptoms such as tinnitus or dizziness.

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?

• 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.

www.entspecialists.net

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

Dr. Donald Cote • Dr. Arthur Torsiglieri Dr. Adam French • Exposure to noise is the leading Donna McGough, F-AAA • Kristyn Meade, F-AAA cause of tinnitus, and almost always accompanies hearing loss.

Susann Shriver, CCC-A

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

34 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 34-35

6/11/2014 8:38:00 AM

What is an

?

Audiologist A

udiologists are health care professionals who are trained in the diagnosis, treatment and management of hearing loss, balance disorders and other associated conditions. Audiologists are trained to carry out detailed assessments by performing a number of specialized auditory (hearing) and vestibular (balance tests). They are trained to make recommendations for medical treatment when needed. Audiologists are trained to fit hearing aids and adjust the hearing aid gradually with appropriate communication strategies.

An audiologist can work in a variety of settings and is trained to work with all ages, from babies to elderly patients. Some audiologists work with schools and provide diagnostics and auditory training support to hearing-impaired students. Other audiologists may work in private practice, ENT offices or hospitals, assessing hearing and balance disorders. Audiologists must also monitor the newborn infant screenings now required at hospitals. They may also work in areas of research or industrial businesses, managing noise exposure levels and monitoring the employees' hearing and providing instruction and education of ear protection.

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

FOR PEOPLE WITH HEARING LOSS

Audiologists are not medical doctors, but a master's or doctorate degree in Audiology is required for licensure. Since 28 million Americans suffer from some form of hearing impairment, the work an audiologist does is essential in our society today.

The causes of hearing loss in our society vary. Hearing loss can be a result of noise exposure, trauma, hereditary factors or the natural aging process. Other causes of hearing loss include ototoxic (toxic to the ear/hearing) medications, head injuries, tumors, ear disease, certain medications and illnesses such as diabetes.

Contact Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists of Conyers for your local audiologist if you have concerns about your hearing, or if you have related symptoms such as tinnitus or dizziness.

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?

• 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.

www.entspecialists.net

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

Dr. Donald Cote • Dr. Arthur Torsiglieri Dr. Adam French • Exposure to noise is the leading Donna McGough, F-AAA • Kristyn Meade, F-AAA cause of tinnitus, and almost always accompanies hearing loss.

Susann Shriver, CCC-A

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

34 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 34-35

6/11/2014 8:38:00 AM

Schedule your appointment today!

Blue Light and Your Vision

Sun is Fun... right?

S

ummer is upon us and temperatures are finally soaring as the hot sun and blue sky light our lives up. The bright blue sky is spread out like a cheerful canopy above us. We need some of the natural blue light it bestows upon us since it serves as a biological reminder to our bodies that it is daytime. It also makes us feel alert, happy, energized and awake and adds to our color perception.

However, exposure to artificial blue light at the wrong time of day can negatively impact our sleep cycle and recent studies have shown that a particular type of blue light found in natural and artificial light known as High Energy Visible (HEV) or blue-violet light can wreak havoc on our eyes and health. Sources of HEV light range from natural sunlight outside to incandescent (think Thomas Edison) and luminescent (think LEDs-light emitting diodes) light sources indoors.

Ultraviolet (UV) light provided by sunlight is invisible to the human eye, and although it plays a beneficial role in vitamin D formation, overexposure to UV light can also have harmful effects on our eye health.

Most people understand that direct UV radiation is dangerous, but are not aware that indirect or reflected UV radiation can also be hazardous.

When it comes to the amount of UV light that is reflected off of an object, the surface of the object matters. Some surfaces are more reflective than others. A surface painted bright white, for example, reflects about 22 percent of the sun’s UV radiation.

Even surfaces that don’t seem to be inherently reflective can be a source of indirect UV radiation.

For example, dry grass in winter bounces about 3 percent to 5 percent of the sun’s radiation back up toward our eyes. Sunglasses are essential for partly

cloudy days. The worst exposure conditions can be with a high sun and light overcast because the white clouds further scatter the UV radiation. Sunglasses will also provide protection to the delicate skin found around the eyelids, which are common areas for cancerous growths.

Visible light waves from the sun travel in all directions and when they reflect off a horizontal surface, like a road, water or the hood of a car, it will reflect in a direction parallel to its surface; this is interpreted as “glare” by the human eye.

Polarized sunglass lenses consist of filters oriented in a vertical direction which effectively block these reflected light rays allowing for clearer and more comfortable vision. These types of sunglasses are particularly beneficial for truck drivers and/or fishermen as they greatly improve visibility.

With regards to HEV light, it is important to acknowledge that incandescent light sources are quickly becoming replaced by luminescent light sources because LEDs have a longer lifetime, lower energy consumption and less negative environmental impact. We can see this all around us as luminescent light sources progressively conquer office environments, TV screens, computer monitors, smartphones, tablets, etc…Recent research has shown that large exposure to blue-violet light from these sources can cause damage to the light-sensitive layers at the back of the eye and contribute to cataract formation as well as accelerating damage in those who have macular degeneration.

Luckily the optical industry has evolved its line of protection for all eyes. Innovative new treatment and lenses have been invented to shield eyes from the flood of blue-violent light which we now endure every day. These products selectively filter out

blue-violet light and thereby protect the eyes from cataract progression and potential retinal damage while still allowing some blue light to pass so that we may receive its positive benefits like proper color perception and wakefulness. New anti-reflective treatments now incorporate protection for blue light and UV while specific lens materials tuned for 100 percent UV absorption are used. Come visit our optical shop to learn more about these products and have a look at our vast array of polarized sunglass eyewear before you head out for that road trip to the beach or that fishing trip at the lake!

We need to remember that the very elements that provide us with warmth and light can also have long-term harmful effects on our eye health.

Love your eyes; we’ll make sure they’re healthy!

G

eorgia Ophthalmologists offers a comprehensive list of visual health services including routine eye exams for all ages, diabetic exams and testing, diagnosis and treatment of retinal disorders, glaucoma diagnosis and care, glasses and contact lens prescriptions, and treatment of ocular emergencies. Our surgical services include cataract removal, YAG laser procedures, surgical correction of common eyelid disorders such as ptosis and ectroption, and pterygium removal.

4167 Hospital Drive • Covington, GA 30014 • 770-786-1234

www.georgiavisioncare.com

The Doctors and Staff at Georgia Ophthalmologists are committed to providing the highest level of ophthalmic care for you and your family. Our physicians take the time to listen to your needs and strive to achieve a collaborative approach to your treatment and care. Our doctors and medical staff actively participate in continuing education to ensure that we keep abreast of the most current treatment options and medications available today.

Jose Bigles-Geigel, M.D.

Jaymini Nayee, O.D.

36 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 36-37

6/11/2014 8:38:14 AM

Schedule your appointment today!

Blue Light and Your Vision

Sun is Fun... right?

S

ummer is upon us and temperatures are finally soaring as the hot sun and blue sky light our lives up. The bright blue sky is spread out like a cheerful canopy above us. We need some of the natural blue light it bestows upon us since it serves as a biological reminder to our bodies that it is daytime. It also makes us feel alert, happy, energized and awake and adds to our color perception.

However, exposure to artificial blue light at the wrong time of day can negatively impact our sleep cycle and recent studies have shown that a particular type of blue light found in natural and artificial light known as High Energy Visible (HEV) or blue-violet light can wreak havoc on our eyes and health. Sources of HEV light range from natural sunlight outside to incandescent (think Thomas Edison) and luminescent (think LEDs-light emitting diodes) light sources indoors.

Ultraviolet (UV) light provided by sunlight is invisible to the human eye, and although it plays a beneficial role in vitamin D formation, overexposure to UV light can also have harmful effects on our eye health.

Most people understand that direct UV radiation is dangerous, but are not aware that indirect or reflected UV radiation can also be hazardous.

When it comes to the amount of UV light that is reflected off of an object, the surface of the object matters. Some surfaces are more reflective than others. A surface painted bright white, for example, reflects about 22 percent of the sun’s UV radiation.

Even surfaces that don’t seem to be inherently reflective can be a source of indirect UV radiation.

For example, dry grass in winter bounces about 3 percent to 5 percent of the sun’s radiation back up toward our eyes. Sunglasses are essential for partly

cloudy days. The worst exposure conditions can be with a high sun and light overcast because the white clouds further scatter the UV radiation. Sunglasses will also provide protection to the delicate skin found around the eyelids, which are common areas for cancerous growths.

Visible light waves from the sun travel in all directions and when they reflect off a horizontal surface, like a road, water or the hood of a car, it will reflect in a direction parallel to its surface; this is interpreted as “glare” by the human eye.

Polarized sunglass lenses consist of filters oriented in a vertical direction which effectively block these reflected light rays allowing for clearer and more comfortable vision. These types of sunglasses are particularly beneficial for truck drivers and/or fishermen as they greatly improve visibility.

With regards to HEV light, it is important to acknowledge that incandescent light sources are quickly becoming replaced by luminescent light sources because LEDs have a longer lifetime, lower energy consumption and less negative environmental impact. We can see this all around us as luminescent light sources progressively conquer office environments, TV screens, computer monitors, smartphones, tablets, etc…Recent research has shown that large exposure to blue-violet light from these sources can cause damage to the light-sensitive layers at the back of the eye and contribute to cataract formation as well as accelerating damage in those who have macular degeneration.

Luckily the optical industry has evolved its line of protection for all eyes. Innovative new treatment and lenses have been invented to shield eyes from the flood of blue-violent light which we now endure every day. These products selectively filter out

blue-violet light and thereby protect the eyes from cataract progression and potential retinal damage while still allowing some blue light to pass so that we may receive its positive benefits like proper color perception and wakefulness. New anti-reflective treatments now incorporate protection for blue light and UV while specific lens materials tuned for 100 percent UV absorption are used. Come visit our optical shop to learn more about these products and have a look at our vast array of polarized sunglass eyewear before you head out for that road trip to the beach or that fishing trip at the lake!

We need to remember that the very elements that provide us with warmth and light can also have long-term harmful effects on our eye health.

Love your eyes; we’ll make sure they’re healthy!

G

eorgia Ophthalmologists offers a comprehensive list of visual health services including routine eye exams for all ages, diabetic exams and testing, diagnosis and treatment of retinal disorders, glaucoma diagnosis and care, glasses and contact lens prescriptions, and treatment of ocular emergencies. Our surgical services include cataract removal, YAG laser procedures, surgical correction of common eyelid disorders such as ptosis and ectroption, and pterygium removal.

4167 Hospital Drive • Covington, GA 30014 • 770-786-1234

www.georgiavisioncare.com

The Doctors and Staff at Georgia Ophthalmologists are committed to providing the highest level of ophthalmic care for you and your family. Our physicians take the time to listen to your needs and strive to achieve a collaborative approach to your treatment and care. Our doctors and medical staff actively participate in continuing education to ensure that we keep abreast of the most current treatment options and medications available today.

Jose Bigles-Geigel, M.D.

Jaymini Nayee, O.D.

36 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 36-37

6/11/2014 8:38:14 AM

Doctor

Back to the N

o matter what grade your child is about to enter, there’s the yearly back-to-school checklist of to-dos: shopping for school supplies, filling out permission forms and the pediatric checkup.

While it may not seem as urgent, a yearly physical exam by your family’s pediatrician is an important part of your child’s health care. The back-to-school season is a convenient time for putting the exam on your family’s schedule.

Beyond the Athlete’s Physical “Back-to-school checkups are often the only visit most kids and teenagers have with their doctor every year. The annual physical gives the pediatrician a chance to give the child a thorough physical exam. It’s also a good chance to address important questions, especially with teenagers, including adolescent issues of drinking, smoking, drugs, sexual activity and depression.”

Children involved in school athletic programs often receive a sports-specific exam through the school. These exams are good at screening for

potential athletic health problems. However, most school sports physicals do not address the child’s overall health; therefore the most comprehensive examination should be at the pediatrician’s office.

Building a Medical History The continuity of regular physical exams is invaluable because the pediatrician often has a long-term history with the child or adolescent. This helps the doctor detect emerging problems, as well as being informed by the detail of the patient’s history, such as important past illnesses or injuries the child may forget to mention on the sports physical questionnaire.”

That detail includes immunization records. “A school exam will generally include a check box asking whether all vaccinations are up-to-date, requiring the parents to remember whether or not they are. The family pediatrician will have accurate records.”

the pediatrician during the transition years from later childhood to puberty. It is a critical time for the pediatrician to get a sense of your child’s level of self-esteem and emotional balance.

The annual pediatric exam also offers the doctor time to provide wellness guidance and advice.

Examining the Young Athlete A sports physical is more involved than a regular physical. Children and teens play a lot of sports and overuse and overtraining injuries are big problems.

The doctor’s annual exam of a young athlete should be similar to one for any other child, but most pediatricians will address some sports-specific issues, including injuries, nutrition, training and exercise programs, and even attitudes in the course of the exam.

If you do not have a pediatrician, contact Decatur Pediatrics Group at our new Covington location for an appointment today, 404-296-7133.

Total Teen Health Adolescence is a time when vital changes are taking place. It’s important to have your child see

38 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 38-39

6/11/2014 8:38:40 AM

Doctor

Back to the N

o matter what grade your child is about to enter, there’s the yearly back-to-school checklist of to-dos: shopping for school supplies, filling out permission forms and the pediatric checkup.

While it may not seem as urgent, a yearly physical exam by your family’s pediatrician is an important part of your child’s health care. The back-to-school season is a convenient time for putting the exam on your family’s schedule.

Beyond the Athlete’s Physical “Back-to-school checkups are often the only visit most kids and teenagers have with their doctor every year. The annual physical gives the pediatrician a chance to give the child a thorough physical exam. It’s also a good chance to address important questions, especially with teenagers, including adolescent issues of drinking, smoking, drugs, sexual activity and depression.”

Children involved in school athletic programs often receive a sports-specific exam through the school. These exams are good at screening for

potential athletic health problems. However, most school sports physicals do not address the child’s overall health; therefore the most comprehensive examination should be at the pediatrician’s office.

Building a Medical History The continuity of regular physical exams is invaluable because the pediatrician often has a long-term history with the child or adolescent. This helps the doctor detect emerging problems, as well as being informed by the detail of the patient’s history, such as important past illnesses or injuries the child may forget to mention on the sports physical questionnaire.”

That detail includes immunization records. “A school exam will generally include a check box asking whether all vaccinations are up-to-date, requiring the parents to remember whether or not they are. The family pediatrician will have accurate records.”

the pediatrician during the transition years from later childhood to puberty. It is a critical time for the pediatrician to get a sense of your child’s level of self-esteem and emotional balance.

The annual pediatric exam also offers the doctor time to provide wellness guidance and advice.

Examining the Young Athlete A sports physical is more involved than a regular physical. Children and teens play a lot of sports and overuse and overtraining injuries are big problems.

The doctor’s annual exam of a young athlete should be similar to one for any other child, but most pediatricians will address some sports-specific issues, including injuries, nutrition, training and exercise programs, and even attitudes in the course of the exam.

If you do not have a pediatrician, contact Decatur Pediatrics Group at our new Covington location for an appointment today, 404-296-7133.

Total Teen Health Adolescence is a time when vital changes are taking place. It’s important to have your child see

38 HEALTHY IN NEWTON

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 38-39

6/11/2014 8:38:40 AM

NewtoN

medical ceNter at the Intersection of

Compassion at the Intersection of and Technology Compassion and Technology

Do You

Know

?

For babies who begin their journey in life by arriving early and unexpectedly, Newton medical center is equipped with a level ii Neonatal intensive care Unit. on average 10% of all newborns need extra support. our experienced and compassionate medical team of specially trained physicians, registered nurses and respiratory therapists provide the highest level of care to babies born early or with a critical health condition by means of:

• • • • • • • • 5126 Hospital Drive NE

|

Mechanical Ventilation Oxygen Therapy, (CPAP, SiPap, Cannula) Phototherapy Nutritional Therapy Kangaroo Care Breast Feeding Support Continuous Monitoring Cardiology and Vision Specialist

Covington, GA 30014

|

770.786.7053

Tell your physician you want to have your baby at Newton Medical Center!

www.newtonmedical.com

HIN JUNE 2014.indd 40

For general information about our BirthCare and our NICU please call 770-385-4355. For more information about our tours and classes, please call 770-385-4182.

6/11/2014 8:38:56 AM