Health

December 7, 2010

Health The Examiner

• Tracey Shaffer Edible garnishes for your holiday table. – Page 9

CAROL SILANAS –

Medical mystery solved

– Page 12

• LARRY JONES

Wellness 2-3 • CaLENDAR 6-7 • NUTRITION 4, 9

Anitbiotic awareness. – Page 2

Page 2 Tuesday, December 7, 2010

wellness

Protecting the effectiveness of antibiotics Penicillin. Amoxicillin. Tetracycline.

These antibiotics have saved many lives and prevented many diseases. Since the 1940s, antibiotics have transformed medical care and dramatically reduced illness and death from infectious diseases. But now, antibiotics are becoming less effective as more people misuse them. Infections with resistant bacteria have become more common in health-care and community settings, and many bacteria have become resistant to more than one type or class of antibiotic. Antibiotics can only cure bacterial infections, not viral infections. Not only does treating viruses with antibiotics not work, it increases the likelihood that you will become ill with a resistant bacterial infection.

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that more than 50 percent of antibiotics are unnecessarily prescribed in the office setting for upper respiratory infections, like cough and cold illness, and ear infections. Prescribing antibiotics for viral illnesses is the most common misuse of these drugs. These infections will resolve on their own without antibiotics most of the time.

Understanding the inappropriate ways in which antibiotics are misused is the first step

Larry Jones Larry Jones is director of the Independence Health Department. in slowing the spread of resistance to antibiotic drugs. Antibiotic resistance will always be a challenge unless we use these medicines responsibly. By using antibiotics appropriately and carefully, health-care professionals and consumers can limit the spread of antibiotic resistance, so that these drugs are only used to treat people with bacterial infections who need them the most.

Talk with your health-care provider about whether the antibiotic will be beneficial to your illness. Also, ask if there are alternatives to feel better sooner. When it comes to proper

“By using antibiotics appropriately and carefully, health care professionals and consumers can limit the spread of antibiotic resistance.� antibiotic use, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends the following: n Do not take an antibiotic for a viral infection like a cold or the flu. n Do not save some of your antibiotic for

the next time you get sick. Discard any leftover medication once you have completed your prescribed course of treatment. n Take an antibiotic exactly as the healthcare provider tells you. Do not skip doses. Complete the prescribed course of treatment even if you are feeling better. If treatment stops too soon, some bacteria may survive and re-infect. n Do not take antibiotics prescribed for someone else. The antibiotic may not be appropriate for your illness. Taking the wrong medicine may delay correct treatment and allow bacteria to multiply. n If your health-care provider determines that you do not have a bacterial infection, ask about ways to help relieve your symptoms.

Do not pressure your provider to prescribe an antibiotic.

Antibiotic resistance has become one of the world’s most pressing public health threats.

These medicines are the most important tool we have to combat life-threatening bacterial diseases and increased antibiotic resistance is compromising the effectiveness of antibiotics. Antibiotics are powerful drugs but they are not the cure for all that ails you. I want to remind you to be smart about antibiotics.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010 Page 3

wellness

What every wrestler should know about staph infections The grapplers are back. Wrestling season has started in area high schools and these unique athletes who must be strong, quick and wily, face powerful opponents, some large and some microscopic.

Skin infections, especially Staph, can sideline the most celebrated champion. Staph infections and wrestlers, what do you know, T or F? 1. Staphylococcus “Staph” always causes infections.

2. MRSA infection means automatic disqualification.

3. Prophylactic antibiotics are recommended for teams.

Staphyloccocus aureus is a bacterium which lives on the skin and in the nose of 25-30% of the population without causing any problems.

When there is a break in the skin, infection can develop. If the strain of Staph aureus (MRSA) is resistant to methicillin and similar antibiotics, the infection can quickly spread to deep tissues, if not identified and treated early. Among wrestlers, MRSA can be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact or from mats, towels and

Lori Boyajian O'Neill Sports and wellness Dr. Lori Boyajian-O’Neill can be contacted at lori.boyajian-oneill@hcahealthcare.com. other shared personal hygiene items. MRSA is hardy and can live over 2 months on a towel.

Historically, MRSA infections were seen only in immunocompromised individuals such as the very young, very old or those with diabetes, cancer or other serious illnesses. Over the past 10 years, it has become common among those who are otherwise healthy.

Initially, an MRSA lesion may be mistaken for a pimple or spider bite. However, it is usually much more painful and enlarges rapidly in a matter of days. This should prompt immediate medical attention.

Prior to every wrestling match athletes are examined for any skin infection or open wound.

The Missouri State High School Activities Association requires these assessments to decrease risk of transmission. Wrestlers with MRSA may not be cleared to play until all skin lesions are scabbed (non-contagious) or the athlete has taken antibiotics for 10 days, whichever occurs last.

Outbreaks involving several team members require an extensive investigation to identify the source and implement treatment plans.

Some university wrestling teams require that all of their players take antibiotics to prevent MRSA. Although understandable because of the fear of being disqualified, this approach is not appropriate because bacteria adapt and become more resistant to antibiotic therapy.

This method is not recommended by the CDC.

Chlorhexidate gluconate (CHG) kills MRSA and is found in soaps such as Hibiclens. Many wrestling organizations recommend showering with CHG-containing cleansers although this shot-gun approach to prevention is unproven and not recommended by the CDC. Hand cleaners with at least 60% alcohol can protect against some bacteria and viruses but do not kill MRSA. Cleaning mats daily, prohibiting the sharing of water bottles, razors, towels or other personal items are necessary steps to prevent transmission. There are commercial companies, which provide cleaning services for athletic equipment. Special cleaners are available to kill viruses and bacteria including MRSA. A solution with 1 tablespoon bleach in 1 quart of water is also effective and inexpensive.

It takes a lot to sideline a wrestler. Injury is one thing, infection quite another. For modern day gladiators the fight is not only against that which is seen, but also that which is unseen.

healthSHORTS Want to quit smoking?

Classes start Jan. 4 The Independence Health Department is offering smoking cessation classes starting in January.

The classes will be from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. each Tuesday for six weeks starting on Jan. 4 at the Truman Memorial Building, 416 W. Maple Ave. The classes focus on triggers, strategies, changes in behavior and techniques to manage stress that is related to quitting tobacco.

The classes are free.

To register, go to www.independencemo.org/ health or call 826-325-7185.

St. Mary’s honored by health alliance as a top performer St. Mary’s Medical Center has been named a top performer by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Premier health alliance.

The alliance recognizes hospitals for deliver-

Answers: 1. F 2. T 3. F

Food service inspections l Independence

ing quality care in the areas of acute myocardial infarction heart failure, coronary artery bypass graft, pneumonia and hip an knee replacement.

The hospital received awards that recognized sustained levels of performance or improvement in caring for patients with heart failure, pneumonia and surgical care. It was also named a top performer in hip and knee replacement.

St. Joseph Medical Center in Kansas City, the sister organization of St. Mary’s, also earned awards in the same category.

– Michael Glover

Centerpoint employee receives HCA recognition Kathryn Umbarger, an OB tech at Centerpoint Medical Center, received the HCA Innovators Award from HCA Midwest Health System.

The HCA Innovators Award is a new employee recognition program designed to recognize non-management individuals whose innovative ideas to improve patient quality, service, or the

efficiency of our operations have been put into action and proven effective.

Umbarger was the only HCA employee to receive the honor.

She received her award in the “Service Excellence” category for her proposal for a NICU webcam so that patients can see their baby in the NICU from home.

“We are very proud of Kathy for her initiative in developing the NICU webcam proposal for us,” Denise Moland, RN, director, Centerpoint Women’s Services, said in a news release.

“We have many families that live far from the hospital and the use of the webcam will enable them to see their babies and be involved in their care.”

HCA presented Innovators Awards in three categories – Service Excellence, Quality and Patient Safety, and Financial Impact. Facilities nominated individuals for the division awards.

Each division then nominated one winning idea in each category to corporate for consideration of the national award.

The city of Independence Environmental Health Division conducts inspections anywhere food is handled, prepared and served to the public within city limits. Critical violations must be handled within 72 hours.

■ Backyard Burger, 15908 E. 23rd St. – On Nov. 22, inspectors found the dipper well not turned on and the ice cream scoop was found sitting in stagnant water; dipper well water must be on during operational hours. Soup was being heated in the holding unit; food must be rapidly heated to 165 degrees, then placed on hot holding unit.

– Jillayne Ritchie

– Submitted to The Examiner

Tuesdays in The Examiner The Green Space Lynn Youngblood writes about making your lifestyle more earth-friendly

www.examiner.net

Page 4 Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Food for thought

nutrition

Briefly l Health

Get the ‘fats’ about nutrition

By GateHouse News staff Fat is the enemy – that’s the philosophy of many Americans. While plenty of proven health risks can be tied to carrying extra pounds, not all fat is bad, experts say. In fact, dietary fat is considered an essential nutrient, and some “good” fats actually aid in weight control.

“Fat aids in maintaining proper function of the nervous system, keeping our internal organs insulated, nourishing hair and nails and providing the building blocks for many hormones. It is a good source of energy, among other functions,” said Dr. Susan Berkow, a spokesperson with the Institute of Food Technologists and an adjunct professor at George Mason University; she also discusses fats and labels on www.iftfoodfacts.org.

Stuffed pumpkin 1 small-medium pumpkin 2 tablespoons melted butter Dash of salt 4 cups pared, peeled and sliced cooking apples 1/2 cup brown sugar 2 cups raisins 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves Cut top off pumpkin and save. Clean seeds and membrane from pumpkin.

Brush melted butter inside pumpkin.

Sprinkle with salt.

Combine apples, brown sugar, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Put into pumpkin cavity. Place pumpkin lid on and set in pie pan. Bake 2 to 2 1/2 hours at 350 degrees.

Makes about 4 servings.

– State Journal-Register

Did you know?

Separate the ‘fats’ from fiction In general, people should look for sources of unsaturated fat that offer other nutritional benefits, such as those that contain omega-3 or omega-6 fattty acids. Minimize your intake of saturated fats and avoid trans fats as much as possible.

“Up to 30 percent of our daily calories should come from fat, with unsaturated fats making up the majority of that percentage,” Berkow said.

Unsaturated fats are the “good” fats. You can find them in plant-based oils, such as olive or canola oil, salmon, tuna and many nuts, such as almonds and walnuts.

Saturated fats are also a natural fat but can cause health risks if not eaten in moderation.

You’ll find saturated fats mostly in animal products, such as cheese and meat. However, some plant oils, such as coconut and palm, also contain saturated fats. Holiday foods, which are often loaded with butter, can be very high in saturated fats.

Unless a label states “no trans fats,” expect to find them in processed foods like baked goods and crackers. Manufacturers incor-

Easy recipe

ARA Photo Unsaturated fats are the ‘good’ fats. You can find them in plant-based oils, such as olive or canola oil, salmon, tuna and many nuts, such as almonds and walnuts. porate trans fats to provide long shelf life and good flavor. Trans fat has been linked to elevated LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, levels that can lead to heart attack and stroke.

The right kinds of fats, in moderation, can help with weight control. Fat digests more slowly than other types of food and are satisfying. Eating a modest portion of saturated fat at a meal can keep you full longer and help avoid unhealthy snacking.

Federal dietary guidelines recommend about 65 grams of fat per day in a 2,000 calorie-per-day diet. If a food label says 20 percent daily value for fat, then you will consume

about 13 grams of fat in a single serving.

“To minimize bad fat in holiday foods, choose low-fat or fat-free dairy products, read labels and keep total ‘per serving’ to less than 5 to 15 percent of the daily value,” Berkow advised. “Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables with low-fat dips such as low-fat yogurt or humus. Dip your whole-grain bread in olive oil seasoned with garlic or basil, rather than in butter. Try new vegetables such as jicama, which is great for dipping. Bake with margarine rather than butter.

– ARA

The Dish On ...

‘Rachael Ray’s Look + Cook’ by Rachael Ray Rachael now presents her best idea yet: Rachael Ray’s Look + Cook — 100 brand new recipes, each featuring beautiful and helpful step-by-step, full-color photographs that illustrate how to create each meal.

You literally look along while you cook!

But that’s not all . . . you’ll find 125 bonus, never-

before-published recipes. As if that weren’t cool enough, the book also features accompanying realtime video available online for select recipes at www. rachaelray.com.

– Crown Publishing Group

Cranberries, originally named “craneberries,” can be added to breads, muffins, stuffing and vegetable dishes for an extra source of antioxidants and vitamins A and C. – EatRight.org

Food quiz I’m craving a large, hot, soft pretzel with some mustard. Where must I go if I want an original hot pretzel?

A. Philadelphia B. Dallas C. Atlanta D. Omaha – funtrivia.com Answer is at bottom of column

Wise to the Word

Saganaki

[sah-gah-NAH-kee] A popular Greek appetizer in which 1/2-inch-thick slices of kasseri cheese are fried in butter or olive oil. Saganaki is sprinkled with lemon juice and, sometimes, fresh oregano and pita bread. Some Greek restaurants have a dramatic form of presentation: the cheese is first soaked in alcohol, such as brandy, then flamb’ed before being doused with lemon juice.

Saganaki is generally served as an appetizer or first course.

– Epicurious.com Food Quiz Answer: A. Philadelphia

Tuesday, December 7, 2010 Page 5

Page 6 Tuesday, December 7, 2010

health

healthCALENDAR Items for the Health Calendar may be e-mailed to jill.ritchie@examiner.net or mailed to: The Examiner, P.O. Box 459, Independence, Mo. 64051, attention Jill Ritchie. The following items are for Dec. 8 through 14.

Addiction groups

Independence Straight Talk, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m., Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, First Baptist Church. Narcotics Anonymous Help Line: 531-2250.

Living Free – Al Anon meeting, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 1723 Appleton Ave. 461-0039.

Community Substance Abuse Committee, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Independence Police Building.

Blue Springs ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, meetings available daily, most sessions are closed, and there are beginner meetings also, 1428-B W. U.S. 40 (behind Betty’s Diner). There is a total of 29 meetings per week. For times, call 228-7921.

CHAPEL HILL AL-ANON, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday; 9 a.m. Saturday, 1428-B W. U.S. 40 (behind Betty’s Diner).

BLUE SPRINGS ALATEEN, 3 to 4 p.m. Sunday, 1428-B W. U.S. 40 (behind Betty’s Diner).

Raytown NEW DAY AL-ANON, 10 a.m. Wednesday, Blue Ridge Trinity Lutheran Church. 353-5446.

Blue Springs Break Time Club, sponsored by Shepherd Center of Blue Springs, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Timothy Lutheran Church. For older adults with some physical and/or mental limitations. A donation of $10 to the cost of the program is suggested. 228-5300.

Prenatal/Infant/Child programs

Independence WIC NUTRITION PROGRAM, for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or gave birth less than six months ago, 404-6460 or 257-2335.

Blue Springs WIC NUTRITION PROGRAM, for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or gave birth less than six months ago, 220-1007.

Blue Springs/Lee’s Summit Tough Love support group, for families dealing with unacceptable adolescent behavior, 7:30 to 9:40 p.m.

Tuesday, First Christian Church. 913-492-1200.

Moms & Moms-to-be prenatal and postnatal class, 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday, Family YMCA. 224-9620.

Natural family planning session, 7 p.m. Thursday, St. Mary’s Medical Center. Fee. For reservations, 913-384-1000.

Kansas City WIC NUTRITION PROGRAM, for women who

are pregnant, breastfeeding or gave birth less than six months ago, 404-9740 or 923-5800.

Screenings/Immunizations

Independence Blood pressure checks for those 50 and older, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Palmer Center. Free. 325-6200.

Grain Valley IMMUNIZATION AND BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC, sponsored by the Jackson County Health Department, 1 to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Grain Valley Community Center. Blood pressure checks and childhood immunizations are free. TB tests and payable vaccines by appointment only. 404-6443.

Your take What do you think about getting a flu shot?

Support groups Independence Domestic violence group for men, 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Family Conservancy of Eastern Jackson County. 373-7577.

Caring Communities Kinship, 7 p.m.

Monday, Cler-Mont Community School. LiLi Moe, 796-6041.

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS “Rebel Lunch Bunch” luncheon, 1 p.m. Tuesday, O’Charley’s. Kimberly, 419-4276 or Nita, 255-8944.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP, 10 a.m.

“People should get a flu shot to stay healthy.”

Jeri Comer Independence

MORE ON PAGE 7

Bereavement groups Blue Springs Widowed Persons support group, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Annex A. 224-0677 or 229-8093.

Independents Singles Ministry grief support group, 7 p.m. Tuesday, First United Methodist Church. 228-3788.

Adult Bereavement support group, sponsored by St. Mary’s Medical Center, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. several times throughout the year, Vesper Hall.

To register, 655-5490.

Lee’s Summit Grief discussion group, 7 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, Lee’s Summit Christian Church.

Other Infant loss group, sponsored by Carondelet Health. 655-5582.

“I am not sure. I guess it depends on the person. It is their own decision.”

Elaine McAlister Independence

Miscellaneous Independence MATERNITY UNIT TOURS, Centerpoint Medical Center. Call 751-3000 for dates and to register.

Food handler/manager permit training classes, food handler classes, 3:30 p.m.

Thursdays at Truman Memorial Building, 1 and 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Independence Health Department; manager class, 9 a.m. Monday. There is a fee. To register, 325-7803.

Salvation Army Seeing Help (SASH), 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, The Salvation Army building. There will be games, speakers or descriptive video movies, plus a meal. 461-4869 or 373-3363.

“Everyone should get one to prevent the flu.”

Alex Merithew Independence — Kelly Evenson

health

Tuesday, December 7, 2010 Page 7

healthCALENDAR FROM PAGE 6

Tuesday, Villages of Jackson Creek-Memory Care.

Free and open to the public. Call Monica Benson, 478-5689.

Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, East Independence Church of Christ. Kathleen Bessmer, 913-613-5251.

Multiple Sclerosis, 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Red Lobster. 833-4151.

Caregivers SUPPORT GROUP, 2 p.m.

Thursday, Centerpoint Medical Center Cafeteria, private dining room. Call 698-7584 to register.

ALZHEIMER’S support group, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Fairmount Community Center. 254-8334.

VOID (Victims Of Impaired Drivers), 6 to 7 p.m. business meeting; 7 to 9 p.m. support meeting, Friday, Walnut Gardens Community of Christ, 19201 R.D. Mize Road. Call 816-536-2853.

Caring Communities Divorce and Step Family, 6:30 p.m. once a month, days vary, Blue Hills Elementary School. 796-6290.

Blue Springs Overcomer’s Outreach 12-step, 7 to 8 p.m. Monday, Blue Springs Assembly. 229-3298.

Diabetes, 7 to 8 p.m. Monday, St. Mary’s Medical Center Birthing Center Conference Room.

655-5244.

CHADD (Parents of Children with Attention Deficit Disorder), 7 p.m. Tuesday, Care Net Clinic. Call Jessie Roggenbach, 228-6222.

CANCER support group, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, First United Methodist Church, Room 100. Call 229-8108.

Caregivers, sponsored by Shepherd Center of Blue Springs, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Timothy Lutheran Church. 228-5300.

PARENTS OF NICU BABIES, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, St. Mary’s Birthing Center. Moms delivering at other facilities are welcome. 655-5574, option 5.

Breastfeeding, offered by St. Mary’s Medical Center, 10 a.m. Thursday, 206 Mock Ave., Suite 101.

655-5574.

Holding on to Hope, for parents who have had a child die, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, every other month, Timothy Lutheran Church. Call Nancy Nowiszewski, 228-5300, Ext. 320.

CHRISTIAN 12-STEP RECOVERY PROGRAM, 7 p.m. Friday, Blue Springs Christian Church. Call Steve, 229-7311, Ext. 243.

Lee’s Summit Dealing with loss, 1 p.m. Monday, John Knox Village, Ambassador meeting room. Call Darlene Gutshall, 347-2310.

Stroke, 1 p.m. Wednesday, Lee’s Summit Hospital. 969-6900.

Raytown Cancer, 7 p.m. Tuesday, First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. 525-9876.

Weight management Independence TOPS Mo. 291, 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. Monday, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. 461-0811.

TOPS Mo. 251, 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, Maywood Baptist Church. 478-0723 or 252-2392.

TOPS Mo. 331, 5 p.m. Tuesday, College Park Community of Christ. 254-7075.

TOPS Mo. 24, 9 a.m. Thursday, New Walnut Park Church. 373-6146 or 650-5262.

TOPS Mo. 100, 9 a.m. Thursday, Farview Restoration Branch. 356-5278.

TOPS MO 0062, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Northeast Baptist Church. 254-9455.

TOPS Mo. 892, 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church. 356-9219.

TOPS Mo. 482, 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Calvary Presbyterian Church. 452-3029.

Healthy Reflections, 10 a.m. Thursday, Sermon Center. 325-7370.

Overeaters Anonymous, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Monday, Maywood Baptist Church. Handicap accessible. Call Wanda G., 833-2632.

Love Me Slender, 1 p.m. Tuesday, Van Horn Health Source. 418-4070.

CEA-HOW (Compulsive Eaters AnonymousH.O.W.), 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Unity Church of Independence, 14304 E. 39th St. 1-800-672-6715.

Blue Springs TOPS Mo. 772, 10 a.m. Tuesday, First Baptist Church West Annex. 228-3741.

SOS (Save-Our-Selves) Weight Management, 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays, Vesper Hall. Participate in this weight management program and supportive group discussion. Cost, $1 per meeting. 228-0181.

Lee’s Summit Overeaters Anonymous, 7 p.m. Monday, Unity Village, Administrative Building, Room 221.

Call Lisa, 833-2636.

CEA-HOW (Compulsive Eaters AnonymousHOW Concept), 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, First Presbyterian Church. Call Lisa at 679-7009 or visit www.ceahow.org.

Raytown Overeaters Anonymous, 4 p.m. Sunday, Quiet House, 65th and Elm. 353-2691.

Other Overeaters Anonymous, a 12-step program for compulsive eaters. 913-383-5933 or www.overeatersanonymous.org.

WEIGHT LOSS CHALLENGE, 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.

Tuesdays, or 7 to 7:45 p.m. Thursdays. Cost, $35 for 12-week class, with $25 going in the pot for top three losers. To register, 800-262-2152.

Women’s issues Independence La Leche League, Jackson County A.M. Group, 10 a.m. Thursday, Trails West Public Library.

For breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women interested in breastfeeding. Call Kayl, 254-5992.

Women’s Empowerment Groups, sponsored by the Child Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA), 6:30 to 8:30 Monday. For locations, call Karen Costa, 252-8388, Ext. 16.

Other Hope House Inc. weekly support groups, open to any female who has been or is now involved in an abusive relationship. For times and location, call the hotline at 461-4673.

– Jillayne Ritchie

Page 8 Tuesday, December 7, 2010

health

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Ron Ze: What is Alzheimer’s disease?

By Dr. Ron Ze GateHouse News Service

Dr. Ron Zec, an associate professor of psychiatry and neurology at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, explains what is Alzheimer's disease and what causes the disease. He also explains how it can be treated and some tips on preventing or delaying the onslaught of the disease.

How to treat Alzheimer’s disease?

First off, you want to get a correct and accurate diagnosis. You may have a condition other than Alzheimer's disease or you may even have a treatable or reversible condition. So getting a proper workup for Alzheimer's disease or dementia by a specialist or specialist team is important. The same team can also provide information on how to best manage this disease or dementia.

Currently there are some medications.

Three different cholinesterase inhibitors prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger that is important for learning and memory. The three include Aricept, Exelon and Razadyne.

Another category of medications that can help includes memantine, sold as Namenda. It works to regulate the activity of glutamate, a different messenger chemical involved in learning and memory, according to the Alzheimer's Association.

The effectiveness of the drugs overall is modest. It does not stop the disease or cure the disease and there is debate of whether it even slows the disease. Although, in some individuals it can improve how they're functioning, and not just in terms of their memory, but also in their emotional state.

The tragedy of Alzheimer's disease is that nobody has been cured of it and no progression has been stopped.

On the good side, it is a slowly progressing disease. In the early phases you have memory impairment, but that might not seriously interfere in your daily functions. There is a period of several years or many years that the disease is gradually progressing and you can live your life pretty normal.

Yet, as the disease progresses and you become more impaired, the challenge is to

online RESOURCES Alzheimer’s Association Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantines info http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_standard_prescriptions.asp National Institute on Aging Alzheimer’s disease fact sheet http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/adfact.htm National Institutes of Health Health topic –Alzheimer’s disease http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/alzheimersdisease.html have a better quality of life. In some cases, during the middle stages of the disease, emotional and behavioral problems may emerge. This primarily depends on parts of the brain that the disease is affecting – the emotionally regulatory part. In these cases, pharmaceuticals and non-pharmaceuticals are available. Also important in helping to have a good quality of life is support from family, friends and medical personnel.

Some ways to be proactive against the disease: n Have a physically active lifestyle. n Be emotionally healthy, as opposed to chronically stressed or depressed. n Stay cognitively active throughout life and being mentally challenged, such as such as reading or doing crossword puzzles, along with learning something new. n Be socially engaged with others, which also leads to having social and emotional support.

nutrition

Tuesday, December 7, 2010 Page 9

Give your buffet table some festive eye appeal with edible garnishes Decorating with food serves several functions. It is pleasing to the guests and sets the style of the meal.

Garnishes “feed” the eye and excite the appetite. Since garnishes are most often made with fresh fruits and vegetables, they give your table a healthful image. Food garnishes can cost very little by using inexpensive cucumbers, carrots or apples – and the tools you need are usually right in your kitchen drawer.

Consider these tips for making easy and beautiful garnishes.

1. Use a sharp knife. Dull knives won’t make clean cuts and cause more unsightly damage to the fruit or vegetable. Of course, always practice knife safety.

2. Ask yourself, “What style do I want the garnishes to present?” If you want to carry your meal theme throughout your table and presentation, use appropriate table linens and food decorations.

3. Use variety in color, texture and shape when choosing garnishes. Make sure that they complement the food served. You might want to use whole, raw ingredients from some of the dishes you’re serving – for example beans, corn and peppers – to accent the dishes.

4. Most garnishes can be made up to two days prior to the meal if you keep them in an air-tight container and refrigerate.

5. To prevent discoloration, use full-strength lemon juice to dip cut apples, pears, bananas and other fruits that have a tendency to turn brown in the air.

6. Once the garnishes are placed on the table, you can spritz each one with some cold water to keep them fresh-looking.

7. Make your buffet table more interesting by elevating some of the dishes. Place wooden blocks, pans and boxes (or anything else you can think of using) under a napkin or tablecloth.

Garnishing with food is fun and easy and you’ll get better with practice. Food decorating makes the meal more appealing and your table more welcoming. The supplies you need are most likely in your kitchen or refrigerator right now and the creativity is within you!

Kansas City strip petite roast Cooking guidelines

Quality Orthopedic Care Providers

Tracey Shaffer Food for Thought Tracey Shaffer, RD, LD, is a Hy-Vee dietitian at the Blue Springs location The information provided should not be construed as professional medical advice. E-mail her at 1033dietitian@hy-vee.com.

Season with favorite steak seasoning 1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. 2. Place roast on rack in roasting pan, fat side up. Do not cover or add water.

3. Season with favorite beef roast seasoning, such as Lawry’s seasoned salt or kosher salt and cracked black pepper.

4. Roast in oven for 55 to 75 minutes for medium-rare to medium doneness – to an internal temperature of 135 degrees for medium-rare or 150 degrees for medium doneness.

5. Let roast stand 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Garnish: Rosemary sprigs Peppery rub 2 tablespoons pepper seasoning blend 2 tablespoons minced garlic Combine rub ingredients in small bowl.

Press evenly onto all surfaces of beef roast.

Five-pepper seasoning 3 tablespoons coarsely ground mixed peppercorns (black, white, green and pink) 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper Combine seasoning ingredients. Season roast.

Back Row (L-R): Earnest Neighbor, MD

Seated (L-R): Craig Satterlee, MD

Knees & Hips Trauma, Total Joint Replacement

Subspecialty Shoulder

Robert M. Drisko, II, MD

Alexandra Strong, MD

Sports Medicine, Knees, Shoulders

Paul Nassab, MD

Subspecialty Hand, Upper Extremity, Shoulder & Elbow

Raymond Rizzi, DPM

Podiatry, Foot & Ankle Surgery

Subspecialty Spine, Total Joint Replacement

Not Shown: Ann Lee, MD

Physical Medicine & Rehab

Christopher Wise, MD Subspecialty Trauma, Acetabular Hip Fracture

816-303-2400 19550 E. 39th Street, Ste. 410 Independence, Missouri 64057

816-561-3003 2790 Clay Edwards Dr., Ste 600 North Kansas City, Missouri 64116

Page 10 Tuesday, December 7, 2010

health GATEHOUSE NEWS SERVICE ILLUSTRATION

TUMMY ACHE? When is a stomachache more than a stomachache?

BY SARA BROWNING | GATEHOUSE NEWS SERVICE

W

hen it’s pelvic pain, acute or chronic pain felt in the lower abdomen between your hip bones. It most often affects women’s reproductive organs but can also signal problems that affect both genders, including pelvic infections, appendicitis or pelvic ruptures or leaks. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, a sudden onset of pain may last one day or one week.

See STOMACH / Page 11

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Tuesday, December 7, 2010 Page 11

Pelvic troubles could be any number of things ▲

STOMACH l From Page 10

“There’s a wide differential (of acute pelvic pain symptoms),” says Dr. Erica Nelson, associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology and director for the general obstetrics and gynecology division at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine.

Chronic pelvic pain, or pain that has been present for up to several weeks or months, can come from several sources, Nelson said, including diverticulitis, endometriosis or and pelvic dysfunction.

Alleviating symptoms Becoming familiar with different types of pelvic pain can help you know the most effective methods for alleviating symptoms.

Nelson says pelvic infections are best treated with antibiotics. Recurring pelvic infections may be caused by receiving medical treatment that does not cure the infection. Typically, this happens when the wrong medication is prescribed or not all of the medication is taken, according to EverydayHealth.com. Patients should

speak with their doctors regarding the correct type of antibiotics to cure infection symptoms.

Other causes of pelvic pain, such as appendicitis, a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the appendix, can be treated either by surgery, or non-surgical procedures such as taking medication, according to WebMD.com.

“Medication may be used as treatment if the doctor is unsure if the patient has appendicitis,” Nelson says. Surgery is done if the patient’s symptoms are definite, and the recovery time differs from patient to patient.

In the case of pelvic pain caused from a rupture of the pelvis, Nelson says the pelvis must be removed.

Complex cases More complex cases of pelvic pain, such as diverticulitis, may be treated using various methods. Diverticulitis, although severe, can be controlled, according to WebMD.com.

Many people have small pouches in the lining of the colon or large intestine that bulge outward through weak spots. Each

Common chronic pelvic ailments Diverticulitis: The out-pouching of the wall of the large intestine like outgrowing fingers causing nagging pain in the lower abdomen.

Endometriosis: The presence of womb tissue outside the womb that causes scarring.

Pelvic dysfunction: The weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.

pouch is called a diverticulum. Multiple pouches are called diverticula. Diverticula are most common in the lower portion of the large intestine, called the sigmoid colon. When the pouches become inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis.

Treatment for diverticulitis focuses on clearing up the inflammation and infection, resting the colon, and preventing or minimizing complications.

Depending on the severity of symptoms, the doctor may recommend bed rest, oral antibiotics, a pain reliever and a liquid

diet, according to WebMD.com. If symptoms ease after a few days, the doctor may gradually increase the amount of high-fiber foods in your diet.

Severe cases of diverticulitis with acute pain and complications will likely require a hospital stay. Most cases of severe diverticulitis are treated with IV antibiotics and a few days without food or drink to help the colon rest. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

Endometriosis — the abnormal growth of endometrial cells similar to those that form the inside a woman’s uterus but in a location outside the uterus — may be treated with medications and/or surgery, according to MedicineNet.com. Antiinflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium are commonly prescribed to help relieve pelvic pain.

Ectopic pregnancy is another complex case that causes pelvic pain.

Nelson says a person experiencing acute pelvic pain should see a doctor if there are any immediate changes that produce extreme discomfort, especially in the bowels and kidneys, or if medications fail to provide relief.

Page 12 Tuesday, December 7, 2010

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Mystery solved After a lifetime of recurring seizures, Independence woman’s doctors finally locate the source: epilepsy

By MICHAEL GLOVER michael.glover@examiner.net

Asked if she feels lucky to be alive, Carol Salinas said no.

“I feel blessed,” the Independence woman said.

And she’s blessed to be seizure-free.

After suffering from repeated seizures, the 51-year-old Salinas received what she calls “a new lease on life” through brain surgery that has stopped her epilepsy.

As a teenager, Salinas often zoned out, best described as hearing what was happening around her but not seeing.

Doctors prescribed medication. They told her she was hypoglycemic.

But the condition worsened.

When her daughter, now 30 years old, was 3 months old, Salinas suffered a grand mal seizure.

“It just knocked me out,” she said.

About 20 years went by without experiencing another seizure.

But one day, while working at city hall in 1998, Salinas suffered another grand mal.

She retired from the city in late December 1999. The seizures kept happening more frequently. It hit the pinnacle when she suffered six seizures in one day. “Back to back,” she said.

At 41 years old, Salinas finally learned an official diagnosis. She had epilepsy.

She tried a variety of medications. Nothing worked. Ten years passed.

The episodes affected her short-term memory. Her primary physician, who tried without success to cure the seizures, referred Salinas to Saint Luke’s.

Sr. John Croom, a epileptologist at the Kansas City hospital, created a “map” of Salinas’s brain.

The procedure, which is called invasive video electroencephalogram monitoring, allowed neurosurgeons to know precisely where to operate without damaging

FYI

What they mean

Grand Mal: A type of seizure that features a loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions. It’s the type of seizure most people picture when they think about seizures.

Epilepsy: A brain disorder that involves repeated and spontaneous seizures of any type.

They are caused by abnormally excited electrical signals in the brain. healthy tissues.

The neurosurgeon placed a credit cardsized grid directly onto her brain. The grid had several dots the size of a pencil head that acted as tiny electrodes. The electrodes recorded brain activity that identified the specific part of her brain that caused the seizures, according to Saint Luke’s Hospital.

Brain activity was monitored for eight days. Croom determined the seizures started in her right temporal lobe. Removing the lobe would affect her speech, so Croom only removed part of her right temporal lobe.

The surgery happened on July 29, 2008.

Salinas went home two days later.

Salinas has suffered zero seizures since the surgery a year ago.

She had decided to live with the seizures because the thought of someone cutting her brain had scared her.

But a seizure caused her to miss her mother’s funeral. She had enough. “I said ‘OK, that’s the last thing I’m going to miss if I can help it,’” Salinas said.

She praises Saint Luke’s Comprehensive Epilepsy Center and all the doctors who treated her.