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Piedmont Healthcare Quarterly A Kings Mountain Herald, Banner News, Cherryville Eagle publication
What every man should know about his health........................2 Hormone Therapy Not just for women! ..................3 “Is it skin cancer?” ..................3 Allred strolling along.................6 Glaucoma, thief of sight ..........11
Men’s
Diabetics - an active lifestyle...17
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September 26, 2012
What every man should know about his health (Ed. note: Gene White retired in 1994 as Director of the Planning Department at the City of Kings Mountain. This is his personal story of how walking has become a life-changing experience for him. He started walking in 2006 when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer recording his miles, to date 4,318. During eight weeks of radiation he walked 142 miles. That was six years ago and walking worked for him. This year his goal is 650 miles and already he has clocked 500 and hopes to make the 5,000 milestone in 2013. His choice of a relaxing place to walk is Gateway Trails in Kings Mountain with its panoramic view of Kings Mountain and nearby mountain chain.)
by GENE WHITE Men’s Health. This subject has an unending list of cause-effect relationships, so we need to limit our discussion to the most pressing and well known problems and the most available and proven solutions. The most hated terms that we hear every day are diet, exercise, obesity and self-indulgence. In other words, “Our lifestyles are killing us.”
Now, if you are tired of listening to this and are satisfied with your health situation, then head on over to the fridge and have yourself a big helping of ice cream or another 2-liter drink. Hold on a little longer for some useful information and a guaranteed solution for better health for you personally. I will guarantee that you can take off 10 pounds in 30 days and as a bonus, improve your overall health. The three leading causes of death in the United States continue to be heart disease, cancer and stroke. We know for certain that heart disease and stroke can be greatly minimized by diet and exercise. A recent study indicates that obesity in women may enhance the incidence of cancer. Tobacco use is still the number one cause of preventable death related to lifestyle. No need to argue this point. The category in second place is poor diet, inactivity and obesity. The present figures on weight are that nearly seven of every 10 U. S. adults are overweight and about 3 of every10 are obese. This was reported in a 2005 American Heart Association study and is now far worse. Even worse is the huge increase in obesity of children and young adults. Think
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how the fallout from this affects your health care costs. What every man should know about his health. Your family history. Write it down now. Blood pressure - anything around 120 over 80 is OK. Truth about actual weight situation. Your comprehensive metabolic panel (blood) which will give you such info as blood sugar levels and sodium (salt) levels along with about 40 other factors. Your blood lipid panel which includes overall cholesterol (less than 200), triglycerides (less than 150), LDL (bad) less than 100 and HDL (greater than 40). PSA (prostate specific photo by GARY STEWART antigens) - this is a signal to We all know that walking is good for you but Gene check further for prostate White, above, who walks the Gateway Trail in Kings cancer. Only a biopsy can Mountain and loves the exercise, is the perfect example confirm prostate cancer. in how good it is for a healthy lifestyle. It appears that we all require a life-changing reduction surgery, milkshake diets, experience to take a different view of acupuncture, Zumba. problems that affect us. On a personal Most of these attempts have something note, my eye-opener was a diagnosis of in common as they apply to most people. prostate cancer. We elected to undergo 40 They are unrealistic short term solutions. radiation treatments, rather than As promised, I am going to offer you a chemotherapy or surgery. solution that is a 100% certainty. This procedure involved one treatment It is simple and easy to start. You need daily, five days a week, for 8 weeks, plus to be committed for the long haul. Retwo days. member those dreaded words - diet and I decided to walk every day following exercise? my treatment as a distraction to minimize My not-so-secret solution is a combiside effects of the radiation. During my 8 nation of two strategies. If you do not plan weeks of radiation, I walked 142 miles. It a lifestyle change in moderation of your seemed to work for me. This was Februeating habits and sustained exercise or acary 2006 and I continue to walk. tivity that you feel comfortable with for To date, I have walked 4,318 miles. I the long term, then don’t bother. hope to get to the 5,000 mile mark in Here are the facts: 2013. I realize that it is unrealistic to beThe best and most beneficial exercise lieve that everyone likes walking that is walking. The only equipment you need much but you can set a realistic pace in is a decent pair of walking shoes, approorder to achieve your goal of a more priate clothing and a good place to walk. healthy lifestyle. My choice of place is Gateway Trails on Let’s review a few things that we have S. Battleground Avenue in Kings Mountried (and failed at) to lose weight and to tain. It makes walking an easy, pleasant, regain control of our health. and effective experience. The trail affords A few samples: crash diets, fasting, you any type of walking experience that meditation, hypnosis, Nutri Systems, you wish. There are flat surfaces, paved, Weight Watchers, reducing pills, supplements, Dr. Oz advice, Dr. Phil, stomach See YOUR HEALTH, 12
September 26, 2012
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Hormone Therapy: It’s not just for women! by Deepak R. Gelot, M.D. Carolina Wellness & Cosmetic Laser Center
Feeling a little tired? Having trouble concentrating? Noticing that dreaded “pot belly” starting to form? You may say to yourself, it is just another part of getting older. However, what if these negative effects of aging could be reversed? Hormone therapy, particularly Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, is not just for women anymore. As men age, they experience a normal decline in testosterone levels. The decline in testosterone usually starts around the age of 30 and gradually diminishes as the man ages. Advances in medical research have shown that many of the symptoms that we think of as just a natural part of the aging process can be controlled and even reversed through hormone replacement therapy. Symptoms of low testosterone in men include: decreased sex drive, decreased sense of well-being, depressed mood, difficulties with concentration and memory, and erectile dysfunction. Men may also experience a decrease in muscle mass, increase in body fat, variable effects on cholesterol and metabolism, weakening of bones, and a decrease in body hair. The only way to test levels of testosterone accurately is through the blood. The hormones that are tested include testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, estrogen, PSA, thyroid hormones, and DHEA. Testosterone is the most important hormone contributing to muscle mass, libido, energy, and the male sexual characteristics. Dihydotestoserone is the total amount of used testosterone in the body. Estrogen is checked to ensure that the pa-
tient does not have elevated levels of this hormone. PSA is associated with prostate health, which can be a factor in testosterone levels. DHEA are the “master” hormones that are produced mainly by the adrenal glands. Your doctor will also check cholesterol, lipid panel, and liver function as low testosterone has been linked to negative effects on these as well. The newest medical advances in hormone replacement therapy are through the use of Bioidentical Hormones. Bioidentical Hormone Replace Therapy (BHRT) is a specialized field of medicine devoted to correcting the hormone imbalances that occur naturally in the body. BHRT has been used for decades with great success and is endorsed by celebrities such as Dr. Phil, Sylvestor Stallone, and Dr. Oz. Bioidentical hormones are identical to the hormones that are produced in the body and, unlike synthetic hormones, duplicate the identical structure and function of human hormones. The body recognizes these natural hormones and knows exactly how to use them. The benefits of BHRT in men are phenomenal. Men experience increases in energy levels as well as increases in muscle mass and strength. Sexual drive and performance are improved. Patients see an improvement in memory, concentration, and sleep. BHRT significantly improves the quality of life and health while reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease. At Carolina Wellness & Cosmetic Laser Center, we are dedicated to helping our patients look better and feel better. BHRT, along with proper nutrition and exercise, can return men to the optimal mental, physical, emotional and sexual health of their 20’s and 30’s.
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Is it skin cancer? by Alan Hodge Some guys might not consider the state of their hide as any big deal, but they can be just as prone, if not more so, to skin cancer as any fair maiden. The fact is, more men than women die each year from skin cancer. Recent statistics by the American Academy of Dermatology reveal 64 percent of people who die of melanoma are men. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that men have nearly double the rates of skin cancers as women. One of the biggest reasons skin cancer strikes men more is that men as a rule are more likely to work and recreate outdoors and be subject to ultraviolet rays. Another reason is that guys are less likely to use sunscreen. One survey revealed that less than half of men ever bother with sunscreen at any time. An even more interesting hypothesis as to why men get more skin cancers is a study done on animals suggested that male skin may have less natural protection to carcinomas because of a lessened ability to retain antioxidants. The two most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. More than 90 percent of skin cancers are slow growing basal cell carcinomas that can spread to bone and
Dr. Sharon Ann McKenna other tissue under the skin if left untreated. On the other hand, squamous cell carcinomas tend to spread more quickly and can spread to other parts of the body. Both basal cell and squamous skin cancers, also known as non-melanoma skin cancers, are treatable if found early. Other types of skin cancers include actinic, or solar, keratosis. This precancerous condition begins as a rough, red, or brown scaly patch on the skin. Prolonged exposure to the sun is a prime cause of this See SKIN CANCER, 7
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September 26, 2012
You want to lose weight? Do the Math! by: Don Miller Cleveland Physical Therapy
About four months ago a good buddy of mine asked me if I would help him lose weight. Greg (I will call him Greg, to protect his true identity) wanted to shed body fat and become healthy. As a missionary/minister he felt that it was important to be a good steward of everything that God entrusted to him, including his body. Hauling around 265 pounds on a 5”6’ frame was taking a toll on his health. He wanted to set a better example for his sons as well as for the people he counseled and ministered. Feeling physically and emotionally better by getting into shape was something he knew that he had to do. Greg approached me because I had been a professional strength coach, and he knew I would know what he needed to do. The fact that I live close by and have a full gym as well as an outdoor area for exercise also helped. I was a little reluctant, as I knew that dropping the weight would be a challenge. You see, my friend is an awesome cook, but as much as he enjoys preparing food, he likes eating it even more! Losing weight is not easy, but it is simple. It’s all about arithmetic. The key to weight loss is burning more calories than you consume. Because 3,500 calories equals about 1 pound (0.45 kilogram) of fat, you need to burn 3,500 calories more than you take in to lose 1 pound. So if you cut 500 calories from your diet each day, you’d lose about 1 pound a week (500 calories x 7 days = 3,500 calories). For most people, it’s probably too difficult to eliminate
the amount of calories through exercise that you could through dieting. That’s why cutting calories through dieting is generally more effective for weight loss. Doing both— cutting calories and exercising—is even more effective, because exercise and diet will help burn off even more calories than just dieting. Exercise also is important because it can help you maintain your weight loss. Studies show that people who lose weight and keep it off over the long-term get regular physical activity. If you lose weight by crash dieting or by drastically restricting yourself to 400 to 800 calories a day, you’re more likely to regain weight quickly, often within six months after you stop dieting.
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Getting regular exercise also can help prevent excess weight gain. Exercise and physical activity are a great way to feel better, gain health benefits and have fun. As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. If you want to lose weight or meet specific fitness goals, you may need to exercise more and you will definitely need to reduce you caloric intake. Remember to check with your medical doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have any health concerns. Four months ago Greg tipped the scales at 265 pounds. His previously high blood pressure is now 117/79 mm/hg and his resting heart rate is 71 beats per minute. Greg’s cholesterol is down to 136 from 182 and the bad cholesterol (Idl/TrG) is down by 30 points. Quite the transformation! Greg was willing to make the needed changes. He committed to reducing his caloric intake by cutting out fast food, soda and sweet tea. He also made better choices regarding what to eat. He submitted to an intense comprehensive workout regimen, working out six days per week. The program included flexibility exercises and education regarding injury prevention, and strength training using body weight, free weights and machines. Tempo running and endurance exercises were also part of the program. When we last checked Greg’s waist was 34 inches, down from over 40 inches, and he weighed in at 205 pounds. Greg has not reached our goal of 190 pounds, but he will! If Greg can do it so can you! Do the arithmetic and then go for it!
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September 26, 2012
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Insurance is there because “Life Happens” by Suzanne Amos The Amos Agency
From the time you held your precious newborn son in your arms, fearing he would somehow break if you hugged him, you have looked forward to his future. You have planned for T-ball and Cub Scouts, and Little League and camping trips. You have planned to teach him all you know about hunting and fixing a car, and charming the ladies. You have planned to teach him to drive and to buy him his first car. You have planned for him to graduate with honors and attend your college alma mater and perhaps take over the family business. You dream of his wedding and…grandchildren. But what if you don’t make it home tonight? What if the sleepy driver on the interstate ends your life and his own? Or what if that indigestion turns out to be an unexpected and fatal heart attack? What if “Life Happens” and you are no longer around to provide for your son, your wife, your business? Could your spouse provide enough income to maintain the mortgage, the car payment, and college funding? Could your employees keep your business running without you? Would your personal and business debt put your family into bankruptcy? Life insurance cannot replace you and
the love you have for your family but it can help to keep the roof over their heads and their future dreams intact. It can provide your business enough time to find a buyer. It can provide income so your spouse or other caregiver can spend time with your child. It can allow him the luxury of studying instead of working to put bread on the table. Every day in our community, fathers and husbands die unexpectedly leaving the families they care about to worry about the basics of life –shelter, clothing, medical care, food, fuel, education. September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. It is a good time to consider a few personal questions. If you are insured through an employer, what would happen if you lost your job? If you have had insurance for twenty years, what happens in year twenty-one? If you are healthy and uninsured today, what would happen if you were diagnosed with a chronic illness? How much income do you expect to earn during your child’s youth and teen years? Where will that income come from if you are not around? Will your child remember that you loved him enough to provide some protection against life’s cruel events? www.lifehappens.org/lifecalculator.
Changes You Can Live With by Daron Dwyer Cleveland County YMCA
Nobody likes a quitter. We are inspired by the image of the gladiator rising, dirty, bloody and exhausted, from the arena floor to triumph in the end. Recently the Olympic arena reminded us of the value and rewards of commitment and perseverance. But when it comes to our personal health and fitness, many experience the “agony of defeat,” not “the thrill of victory.” Why? Often it is because we quit, not because we cannot win, but because we choose the wrong path. It is not a matter of your ability but your approach. Too many people see that infomercial on TV, feel guilty, then go crazy trying to look like the trainer on TV within two weeks. They join the Y, set unrealistic expectations, try to lift the weight they did in high school or college, play basketball
with those half their age, cut out all their favorite foods, and make other drastic changes. What happens? They are so sore they can’t move, so hungry they raid every fridge they can find, so tired they are worthless when they get home, and so frustrated they could spit nails because the weight doesn’t drop as quickly as they wanted. They feel discouraged, defeated, and quit. If you want to triumph, you need to make changes you can live with. Create lifestyle change that you enjoy enough to continue. It’s not about weight loss per se, but lifestyle change that results in living a better life inside and out. Consult your doctor before beginning any exercise or nutrition programs, then follow these helpful tips: See CHANGES, 14
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We care about MEN’S HEALTH Erectile dysfunction (ED) is surprisingly common Millions of men worldwide live with ED It’s unfortunate that many men are embarrassed to talk about ED since most cases can be corrected with advice from your Doctor. Erectile function. A human erection is a complex event that involves brain, hormones, blood vessels, nerves and muscles. A man can experience a variety of physical or situational issues that can affectthese systems and result in erectile dysfunction. Your ED can be Treated. You and your partner should be relieved to know that ED caused by most health and situational issues can be treated and help is available.
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September 26, 2012
Allred strolling along...
(photo by MEP)
Captain Mike Allred of the Cherryville Police Department remains active on the job thanks to a knee replacement that he said has helped him immensely.
New knee helps local police captain on the job and officiating sports by MICHAEL E. POWELL To look at Mike Allred, you wouldn’t think that here is a guy who knows a thing or two about pain. But he does. He also wouldn’t compare himself to being the “bionic man” but he is- sort of. He can tell you all about the before and after of having knee replacement surgery and fill you in on all the little details. To paraphrase the old Timex commercial, he took “a lickin’ and kept on tickin’!” Bionic indeed! Allred, 54, is a captain on the Cherryville Police Department and his job, aside from being very stressful at times, can be physically strenuous, as many law enforcement officer — young and not so young — can tell you. “I started in law enforcement in 1996 at the Lincoln Co. Sheriff’s Office, then was sworn in later, in 1999,” Allred said. He has been a law enforcement officer for 13 years. Allred came to Cherryville’s PD in November 2003 and has been there ever since. He first noticed his knee pain when his right knee began “really hurting in the mid90’s.” It got progressively worse as the knee began to grind more bone to bone. “Cartilage had worn out and there was no cushion,” Allred said. “I went to an orthopedic doctor who began treatment by
giving me cortisone shots.” Allred said that helped for a while until there was no cartilage at all left. “At that time I began wearing a knee brace, or sleeve, to help with support.” Running and climbing stairs became unbearable, he said. Finally, Capt. Allred said he talked to a friend who had two partial knee replacements done and who told him how well he had done. “My wife is a nurse and she checked with different people she knew. We scheduled a visit to a doctor in Huntersville who said surgery was needed,” he said. The other option? He could be fitted with a special brace. Allred said that was out because he personally thought such was a waste of money because it did not help the pain any. “I have a high tolerance for pain, but I don’t like taking any pain medicine for any length of time,” Allred said. “I only take Ibuprofen!” This was a bleak diagnosis for the then 49-year-old. He remembered thinking, “This is young for a (knee) replacement!” The Allreds went to Hickory physician Dr. Louis Peak, who had been recommended by another friend, for a second See STROLLING, 12
September 26, 2012
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SKIN CANCER: is it or isn’t it? From page 3 condition and affects many men, especially on the arms or face. A more dangerous type of skin cancer is melanoma. This condition can begin within the cells that produce skin pigment. Melanoma can be deadly, but early detection can produce a nearly 97 percent cure rate. Skin cancer symptoms may include changes on the skin such as a new spot or one that changes color, a sore that doesn’t heal, a smooth, shiny, pale, or waxy lump, a firm red lump that bleeds or develops a crust, a flat, red, spot that is rough, dry, or scaly. There are several treatments for skin cancer. These include cryosurgery using liquid nitrogen or argon gas to freeze the cancer tissue, Mohs surgery where thin layers of tissue are removed, laser surgery where the cancer is basically burned off, and electrodessication where a curette and electrical currents scrape and burn the tissue away. There are several risk factors in skin cancer and men are often exposed to them. These include being around coal tar, paraffin oil, or creosote, being exposed to the sun for a long period of time, and previous skin injuries such as scars or burns. Dr. Sharon McKenna, DO, with South Point Family Medicine in Mount Holly has experience dealing with skin cancer patients, male and female. She has a bevy of good tips to avoid becoming a victim of skin cancer. These tips are especially appropriate for guys who work or play outdoors. “Avoid the sun when its rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm,” McKenna said. “Also, if you have to be in the sun, wear sunscreen of at least 30SPF. In addition, wear a hat, especially if you have thinning hair. Examine skin monthly for changes and report to your doctor any new moles or changes in existing ones.” Even though there is wealth of information on skin cancer online, if you or someone you know has a suspicious looking place on their skin, it’s best to see a doctor right away.
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September 26, 2012
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September 26, 2012
Is it a sprain, a strain, or maybe a tear? Submitted by Carolinas Regional Medical Center Our shoulders are the most movable joints in our bodies. They help us raise our arms to brush our teeth, eat, comb our hair, play sports and many other tasks. When doing those things become painful, life gets more difficult. There are many possible causes of shoulder pain including sprains, strains, arthritis, bone spurs, bursitis, tendonitis, overuse injuries, frozen shoulder and tendon tear. “About 80 to 85 percent of shoulder patients can be helped without surgery,� said Patrick Hayes, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon and shoulder specialist who operates at Kings Mountain Hospital (KMH). Many shoulder problems improve with simple treatments such as rest, changing activities, stretching, strengthening exercises, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication. If other treatments do not relieve pain, a steroid shot may be recommended. If those treatments fail, a physician may recommend surgery. One of the most common shoulder problems that may require surgery is a symptomatic rotator cuff tear. Tears can be caused by an injury, such as falling on the arm, de-
Dr. Patrick Hayes, MD, orthopaedic surgeon and shoulder specialist at Kings Mountain Hospital performs an operation on a patient. generation from long-term overuse, or normal wear-and-tear over time. Most rotator cuff tears are caused by normal wear and tear that comes with aging. People who work at jobs that require repetitive lifting or performing overhead activities, such as painting and carpentry work have a higher risk of experiencing a
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rotator cuff tear. Athletes such as tennis players and baseball players, especially pitchers, are at risk also. The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint. At the top of the arm bone – the ball fits into a shallow depression in the shoulder blade – the socket. The rotator cuff, actually four muscles and tendons, holds the bones of the shoulder joint together. These muscles and tendons also help to lift and rotate the arm. When one or more of these tendons tear, it is no longer completely attached to the top of the arm bone. That can make moving and using the arm more difficult and painful. Sometimes surgery is needed to fix the tears. Tears caused by an injury, such as a fall, usually cause intense pain. Tears that happen over time due to wear and tear will also cause pain and weakness, but the pain may be mild at first or only happen when you make certain movements such as lifting your arm over your head, and gradually get worse over time. “When we do have to operate, about 95 percent of rotator cuff repairs are now through the scope,� Dr. Hayes said. Performing surgery through a scope, called arthroscopy, uses a tiny camera and small tools inserted into the shoulder joint through small incisions in the skin, about the size of a button hole. The camera transmits images to a monitor. By looking at the images on a monitor, Dr. Hayes is able to see the joint, and make the necessary repairs. This type of surgery is generally easier on the patient than open surgery, where the
surgeon makes a large incision to expose the shoulder joint. Arthroscopic surgery can mean faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. Regional anesthesia, now being used in some shoulder surgeries also seems to help patients recover faster. Using ultrasound technology as a guide, the anesthesiologist gives the patient a shot in the neck, which numbs the nerves in the shoulder and arm. “It’s the same class of drugs as the dentist uses to numb your teeth,� said Devin McCullough, DO, an anesthesiologist for Cleveland County HealthCare System, “but it lasts longer, with up to about 20 hours of pain relief.� Patients who receive the regional anesthesia, even with general anesthesia to put them to sleep, seem to recover faster. “There are two reasons this type of anesthesia helps patients recover faster. One, we reduce the amount of anesthesia used in the operating room,� said Dr. McCullough, “and the patient needs fewer narcotics after the surgery.� Because the arm stays numb for almost an entire day after the surgery, patients experience less pain immediately after surgery. “In doing these surgeries,� said Dr. Hayes, “we’ve found that patients experience less pain overall, have less severe pain and take less pain medicine, so they usually recover quicker.� In some cases, using regional anesthesia can also make surgery an option for patients who have been told they can’t be put to sleep because of a heart condition or other problem. “There are a lot of patients out there who’ve been told by their doctor that they can’t be put to sleep,� said Dr. Hayes. In these cases, it is possible to use regional anesthesia as the main form of anesthesia, but only for surgery that is done arthroscopically. Even though regional anesthesia offers some patients additional options, it is not for everyone. “Not every patient can have this type of anesthesia,� said Dr. McCullough. “If a patient has poor lung function for example, I wouldn’t use regional anesthesia on them because it affects the diaphragm (the major muscle involved in breathing).� Regardless of the type of anesthesia or the surgery method used in rotator cuff repair surgery, the goal is to relieve pain and restore as much function as possible. “The surgery is very effective,� said Dr. Hayes. “It gets rid of their pain and restores motion and strength very effectively.�
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Glaucoma – the thief of sight Submitted by Gaston Eye Associates You may have heard of the term Glaucoma. You might even be aware that it is an eye disease that can lead to blindness if left untreated. But what exactly is glaucoma? How is it detected, can anything be done about it? Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive, irreversible disease that affects the optic nerve and can result in severe visual disability. In addition to visual disability, there are also quality of life factors such as depression that go along with this disease. With the loss of independence due to driving limitations and peripheral vision loss, the prevalence of depression in individuals diagnosed with severe glaucomatous damage can be as high as 32%. Therefore, detection and treatment of this disease is critical for visual function and improved quality of life. Although not due to age, glaucoma is detected more readily with age. It is estimated that with the baby boomers, there will be 10,000 people turning 65 every day for the next 17 years. In addition, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide; as you can see, there is a potential for an onslaught of this disease process. So the next logical question, is how is this disease detected and what can be done about it? Glaucoma is detected in several ways; often times, the doctor will look at many pieces of the puzzle before determining whether or not glaucoma is evident. Once all these pieces are evaluated,
the true picture can be seen. First, a close evaluation is performed of the optic nerve; this structure is seen best when the eyes are dilated. The optic nerves are measured, sometimes photographed for future reference as these nerves should not change from one year to the next and are in fact, fully formed and matured at birth. Thus, it can be these changes that direct the doctor to look more closely for glaucoma. New technology allows the physician to scan the optic nerve’s depth. A thinning depth indicates loss of tissue which can translate to vision loss. Another tool at the doctor’s disposal is what is called an automated visual field. This instrument measures very precisely one’s side vision, or peripheral field. This peripheral field is what is lost early on in the disease process. An additional element in diag-
nosing this disease that most people are familiar with is the eye pressure. This is measured by the “puff” test in the office, which although is not painful, is usually the most disliked diagnostic test the physicians perform due to its startling nature. Often times the eye pressure will slowly elevate in glaucoma; either the eye is producing too much fluid, or that fluid is not draining properly, perhaps a combination of both. Once confirmed, eye drops are instituted in an attempt to lower the eye pressure, thereby allowing the optic nerve to remain healthy. Should eye drops not adequately control the eye’s pressure, surgical options are then considered. Glaucoma is often times called the Thief of Sight, because early on, there is little noticeable impact on vision. Individuals with advanced forms of the disease can still view objects straight ahead and have ‘perfect’ 20/20, having lost side vision only. Therefore, it is critical for annual evaluations of not only the optic nerve, but the entire eye structure. The need for these evaluations increases dramatically if there is a family history. So while there is no cure for glaucoma, if detected early enough, treatment can be instituted in an attempt to maintain one’s best possible vision, keep that independence and increase the quality of life. For more information contact Gaston Eye Associates at 704-853-3937 (Gastonia office), 704-922-9808 (Dallas office) or visit their website at www.gastoneye.com
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You are Insurable!
YOUR HEALTH: what every man should know From page 2
Hearing you’ve been denied for health insurance due to a medical condition is devastating. When you are sick, the security of health coverage is most critical. Now North Carolinians with pre-existing medical conditions do have affordable options through Inclusive Health Federal or State Plans. State Plan Are you losing group coverage or COBRA? Have you been turned down for individual coverage? Do you have a pre-existing condition like diabetes or Chron’s? Has your job been terminated due to foreign
placement?
Federal Plan Have you been uninsured for six months or more? Have you been turned down for individual coverage? Do you have a pre-existing condition? You have been offered coverage with a conditional rider.
Please schedule a no obligation appointment to discuss the available plans in this area.
Suzanne H. Amos, LTCP Serving Cleveland, Rutherford, Gaston Counties
The Amos Agency, LLC 241 South Battleground Ave. Kings Mountain, NC 28086 704-739-3300 / 864-710-8575 (cell) Health * Life * Disability * Medicare Plans * Annuities * LTC
September 26, 2012
non-paved surfaces and various hills. You will see something different every time you walk. A new overlook is under construction, with a panoramic view of Kings Mountain and the nearby mountain chain. Now that you have tried all the short term non-productive weight loss routines let’s try something that really works. Buy yourself a small spiral notebook date it every day and title each page. Food - fat (grams) and calories. Buy a calorie counter book as your second bible. Record everything that you eat for the first 30 days. This gives you an honest picture of your food consumption. Your daily target is 1700 calories and 60 fat grams. The real secret is moderation. You do not need to buy special foods or special supplements. Why lose weight? There are a number of
reasons - ego, vanity, healthy living, etc. I will pick what I believe are the best two reasons. Remember that blood profile we discussed earlier? There are 50 plus items reflected in each report. Literally, almost every item is a reflection of good or bad dietary habits. For example - heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, etc. There is one other reason for weight reduction that we hesitate to discuss. Should we allow ourselves to become significantly overweight and ultimately obese, we become the subject of ridicule and outright discrimination in many areas of our lives. There are laws against this but it cannot be enforced. Suppose that we applied for a job and one of us is significantly overweight or obese and the other person is not but both have equal qualifications. Who do you think will get the job? Right! The bottom line is simple - all of this is old news. It is easy to solve or easy to ignore. Which do you choose?
STROLLING: new knee helps local police captain From page 6 opinion. “I liked him and he showed me what all would entail for the (knee) replacement. I was never worried about the surgery and my family was very supportive.” Allred had his knee replacement surgery on Dec. 31, 2007, at Catawba Valley Hospital in Hickory, with Dr. Peak performing the surgery. The surgery was fairly fast and, all things considered, simple. The rehabilitation and time away from work (three weeks) was the lengthy part of the process. Capt. Allred said he started his rehab the day after surgery, in the hospital. It continued until the end of March 2008, in Lincolnton and on an outpatient basis. Additionally, there were periodic visits to Dr. Peak for checkups. “After one year he (Dr. Peak) said I did not have to come back for a year. After that, I only needed to call if I had a problem.” That has been a little while ago and Allred said he has had no problems with the knee at all. “The only limitation I have is not to do a lot of running,” he said. “The less running I do will allow me to have the new knee stay intact for quite a while.”
Allred said he can walk just fine and can do just about anything he wants on it now. One thing he dearly loves is officiating at various sports venues. With his new knee he is still able to do that. “I was able to keep officiating football because I moved to the umpire spot which does not require a lot of running.” Allred said he really has no limitations. “If I had waited, the pain would only have gotten worse. It (the surgery) really helped me continue to be able to work and at the age I was, has prolonged me being able to do the things I want to do,” Allred noted. At present he has no problem with his other knee. He is thankful for that. As for telling others about his surgery, Allred is optimistic and is a proponent of the surgery and its benefits. “I would recommend that anyone look at having this type of surgery to help prolong their way of life,” Allred said. “Several people in my church have had knee replacement surgery the same time I had mine. One lady had both done at the same time and walks without a cane now!” Watching Allred get around and do his job it’s easy to see why he’s so sold on the surgery. “I love my job,” he said, smiling. “This just helps me be better at it than before.”
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the REAL winner is our COMMUNITY THE JOINT COMMISSION Top Performer in Key Quality Measures for heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia and surgical care in 2010. 1
At CaroMont Health, we are proud of the awards we receive. After all, The Joint Commission, CareChex, and HealthGrades ratings have each set us apart from any other area hospital in these quality distinctions. Recognition like this lets us know that we are making a difference and truly following our mission to provide exceptional health care to the communities we serve. And because we are a community health system, it means everyone in this area can benefit from the outstanding care we provide. And thats the biggest award of all.
CARECHEX Number 1 in the Nation in Medical Excellence for Overall Medical Care for 2012. 2
HEALTHGRADES Distinguished Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence™ for 3 years in a row, 2010, 2011 and 2012. 3
704.834.2000 | caromonthealth.org 1
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Medical supply planning for fall and holiday travel by William H. (Bill) Griffin President & CEO, Griffin Home Health Care
Another magnificent Carolina autumn is just around the corner which means weekend getaways to the mountains for gorgeous fall foliage, football games and tailgating, and even a last-chance warmweather beach trip. But whatever your destination, you can never be too prepared when traveling, especially if you use medical supplies. The following are some T-R-A-V-E-L tips to help you stay head of the game and incorporate your family’s medical supply needs when planning your trip: T – Take along a medical ID bracelet. Any type of ID bracelet is beneficial but standouts include those that feature barcode technology with your name, photo, and contact and medical information. Some even have a credit card feature where you can swipe the bracelet if you need emergency money on hand. These types of bracelets are a great way to inform people of who you are and your specific medical needs in the event of an emergency. R – Record your medical supply information. Create a wallet-size travel card of any medical supplies you are carrying to notify TSA agents or travel personnel. Include all reorder numbers of catheters, os-
tomy supplies and other items. When travelling by air, be sure to carry some of your supply items with your carry-on luggage in the event your checked luggage gets lost or flights get delayed. This will help streamline your travel time and ensure you have what you need. A – Assemble a travelling medicine kit. Make sure you have a check list of prescription medicines you need and keep any over-the-counter medicines such as pain relief medicine, topical wound care and a thermometer in your kit at all times. If you have young children, be sure to include any over-the-counter medicines they might need for an unexpected fever or other ailment. This will prevent you from forgetting your medicines and will save you a trip to the pharmacy if you happen to need something in the middle of the night. V – Visit your doctor. Discuss any travel plans with your doctor and use the time to get a checkup and any prescriptions you need to take. This is especially important if you have lung disease and need oxygen because you will need a letter with permission to travel and your oxygen prescription. Check with a travel agent or talk directly to the airlines, train lines, cruise lines or bus line you’ll be taking to see what restrictions and/or requirements they have for traveling with oxygen or a CPAP machine.
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E – Explore options for extra care. As part of your trip planning, identify ahead of time where you will get extra medical attention if you need it. Do you know where the nearest hospital or urgent care is? L – Let your homecare medical supplier know. Be proactive by reaching out to your homecare medical supplier who can help
provide additional information and support in planning your trip. S – Seek out best options for storing items. Whether you’re traveling in the extreme summer heat or winter coldness, do not store certain items in your car. Some supplies such as ostomy bags will become less effective sitting in a hot car and medicines like Insulin require refrigeration.
CHANGES: you can live with From page 5 First, FIND YOUR MOTIVATION. Only one person has to be convinced that health is worth it in order to make lasting lifestyle changes: You. So why should you do it? It could be a doctor’s warning, pain or immobility due to being overweight, lacking the energy to do activities with people you love, the reality that without change you may not see your kids or grandkids grow up, or just being tired of feeling out of shape. Whatever it is, find it. Keep it in front of you. Then you’re ready for real lifestyle change. Second, GET REAL. Don’t change everything at once. It takes time to get back to health and fitness. Small changes give your mind, body and lifestyle time to adjust. If you haven’t been doing any exercise, six 90-minute workouts a week can lead only to pain and injury. So get real. Start with two or three 30-minute workout periods per week. Find the combination that fits your schedule, and gradually increase it to at least 3 hours a week of moderate activity. Set short-term goals. Don’t say “I need to lose 50 lbs.” Make the goal 5 pounds and an inch off the waist. Then set another short-term goal. One pound a week is a more healthy and sustainable pattern. Make changes that you can realistically live with. Third, make changes that FIT WHO YOU ARE. Face it, if it doesn’t work in your life, it will not become a habit. For most, this means doing the activities you really enjoy with the people you love, that will encourage, motivate, and challenge you. What have you really enjoyed before that you think you could resume? If running is not your thing, for crying out loud don’t start by trying to run 5 miles a day. Instead, ask, “What is already a part of my life that I could use to make me more healthy?” If you are a hunter, park the 4-wheeler and walk to your stand. Do less “baiting” and more scouting to learn wildlife patterns. Are you a dad, or grandfather? Play with the kids regularly! It’s great for your heart in more ways than one. Did you love to hit the gym or the court back in the day? Join the Y and start again. Do you enjoy competition? Join a league, or keep tabs on time spent being active by starting a cash pool at work: Most minutes by Thanksgiving wins the cash. Are you a golfer? Walk the course. If you become discouraged easily, don’t go it alone – team up with someone. Set yourself up for success by playing to the strengths of who you are as a person and things that are already a part of your lifestyle. Finally, SUBSTITUTE. A key substitute in the game can make all the difference in a win. Someone once said, “Great bodies aren’t made at the gym, but at the table.” Forget going from 3000 calories a day to 1500. You will just be sleepy, grumpy, and hungry. Instead, substitute bad food choices with better ones. Did you know that replacing a large hamburger value meal with a good grilled chicken sandwich, pretzels and water just twice a week can result in half a pound in weight loss? Every week make just one healthy substitution in your diet. If you drink 3 sodas a day, replace one with water. Change to whole grain breads. Reduce your portion size slightly, then do it again every few weeks after your body adjusts until you reach a healthy, balanced diet. Start taking enjoyable, healthy snacks to work so you avoid the vending machine or overeating at mealtime. And hey, don’t quit eating or drinking all your favorites. Just enjoy a little less of them, less often. Adding these kinds of substitutions one by one over time can help you win the battle for your waist. So when are you going to quit blowing smoke, making excuses, and being beaten by two common household items – the fork and the couch? It’s time you make effective, realistic changes you can live with that can bring a lifetime of rewards to you and those who matter to you. Daron Dwyer is a certified personal trainer, group exercise instructor, and the fulltime Sports and Wellness Director at the Ruby C. Hunt YMCA in Boiling Springs, NC.
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Parkinson’s Disease no respecter of persons, gender, or age by MICHAEL E. POWELL Finding out he had Parkinson’s Disease came as a bit of a shock for Dan Harvey of Cherryville. The 44-year-old renal dietician said he had an idea something was up as he had experienced mild tremors for a few years before his actual diagnosis. Since that time, he has learned (and is still learning) to cope with the disease that, according to figures from the National Parkinson’s Disease Foundation’s web site (www.parkinson.org.) affects millions of Americans, with upwards of 50,000 to 60,000 new cases being diagnosed daily! Harvey even facilitates a study group at Cherryville’s First Presbyterian Church.
Harvey said the disease is progressive in most cases, with medication, in his case, alleviating some symptoms. “Essentially, the National Parkinson’s Disease Foundation classifies the disease as a ‘neurodegenerative brain disorder’ that progresses slowly in most people,” he said. “What this means is that individuals with Parkinson’s will be living with it for 20 years or more from the time of diagnosis.” Harvey said many people have called him and his wife Heidi telling them this PD group was something that has been needed here for some time. “I had quite a few from the Lincolnton area to call and to come to the group.” He also
thanks First Presbyterian Church of Cherryville and Pastor Bill Lowe for allowing them to have it at the church. “We both feel it will be a blessing to our area!” As for the disease itself, Harvey said researchers do believe that there may be a genetic link, but they feel that it also may be triggered by something in the environment. “To quote Michael J. Fox, ‘You have the gene and then something in the environment pulls the trigger.’ In my family my grandfather had PD. He never had a tremor but just started falling and then he spent the last 10 years of his life in a nursing home as a total care patient. Thank God for my grandmother who took care of him
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every day of the last 10 years of his life.” Harvey doesn’t really see just himself as the sole group facilitator. “I guess that is what I am, as well as Heidi, my wife, who is my support and caregiver,” he said. “I really don’t try to lead the group, the group is there for the PD patients and their caregivers to have a place to come and share and talk about the issues they face daily living with PD. Also it is a place for each of the members and their caregivers to offer support and comfort to each other.”
Harvey is a deeply religious and spiritual person so he tries to pray for the group each day and before the group to ask God to lead it in the way He wants it to go. They will have guest speakers in their October and November meetings (every second Thursday of the month, at 6:30 p.m.) and will then take off for December, restarting in the new year. “I hope to have speakers, maybe a local neurologist, a See PARKINSON’S DISEASE, 18
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Diabetics can maintain an active lifestyle A whole industry has grown up around freeing diabetics to lead less restricted lives. Tubeless insulin pumps, a needleless blood-glucose monitoring system, and diabetic-friendly frozen foods are among the innovations helping people with the metabolic disorder to live lives on the go. With the number of diabetics growing worldwide – 246 million at last count, according to the World Health Organization – businesses are motivated. In 2011, diabetes therapeutic products were a $23.7 billion dollar industry feeding a growing population that’s starving for a better quality of life, Chef Robert Lewis, “The Happy Diabetic,” author of two cookbooks for people with the metabolic disorder, said recently. “It wasn’t long ago that Type 1 diabetics had to be sure they packed ample sterile syringes and insulin, whether they were going to work for the day or on a road trip,” he noted. “Monitoring blood sugar levels, which is crucial to keeping vital organs healthy, was painful, primitive and hit-or-miss. “And food? That’s been the hardest. A diabetes diagnosis can feel like a life sentence of bland eating.” Among the “firsts” Lewis says diabetics
can look forward to: • The first tubeless insulin pump. Thirty years ago, people with insulin-dependent diabetes had to give themselves shots around the clock to control their blood sugar levels. In some cases, diabetics were hospitalized to ensure they got the insulin necessary to prevent ketoacidosis, a condition that can lead to coma and death. In 1983, the insulin pump was introduced. It attaches to the body and provides continuous insulin injections. But while it was a major breakthrough, it can be bulky and
awkward, with a dangling catheter. The most recent innovation is a streamlined version called the OmniPod. It has no tubes, it’s smaller and it attaches anywhere on the body with adhesive. It also has a built-in glucosemonitoring system. • The first needleless glucometer. The Symphony tCGM System uses ultrasound to monitor blood-sugar levels, which will free people from the painful pricks needed to get a small blood sample for testing multiple times a day. The device, which attaches with adhesive to the body, continuously tracks glucose levels day and night and can send the readings to your smart phone. Under development for more than a decade, Symphony is undergoing the studies necessary to win regulatory approval. • The first diabetic-friendly frozen meals. Meals-in-a-Bun are low on the glycemic index, low in sugar and carbs,
high in soluble fiber, low in trans fat, high in lean protein and low in sodium, Lewis said. “And the best thing is, they are delicious.” The five varieties – two vegan and three vegetarian – include selections like Thai Satay, mushrooms, broccoli and tofu in whole-wheat flax bun. “This is particularly exciting because, while there have been advances in equipment that makes life easier for diabetics, there haven’t been for convenient, packaged foods.” Diabetics who do not watch what they eat may wind up suffering kidney damage, stomach problems, heart disease, pneumonia, gum disease, blindness, stroke, nerve damage, complications during pregnancy, loss of limb and other health problems, according to the CDC. But many Americans are trending toward healthier diets, eating less meat, gluten, salt and sugar, Lewis said. Tasty foods developed for diabetics will be excellent choices for them, too. “What’s good for diabetics is good for everyone,” he said. “And you don’t have to give up one teaspoon of flavor. “There’s a reason why I am called ‘The Happy Diabetic’; I have discovered the joy of nutrition-rich food.”
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Our mission is to share the love of Jesus Christ through compassionate care and excellence in orthopedic rehabilitation. Primarily because of our company’s core values and community involvement, CPTA was noted as one the emerging 10 small businesses and was named Cleveland County’s 2010 Entrepreneur of the year. CPTA employs Board Certified Clinical Specialists in Orthopedic Physical Therapy. Less than 2% of Physical Therapists have achieved this board certification. Don Miller DPT, MSPT, BSPT, OCS, Cert. SMT, CSCS
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September 26, 2012
PARKINSONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DISEASE: no respecter of persons, gender, or age From page 15 physical therapist, and an occupational therapist. We will just see how it goes and if they will be willing to come and speak.â&#x20AC;? Harvey said he is happily married to his wonderful wife Heidi, and they have two boys, Adam (14) and Will (10). â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have a degree in Foods and Nutrition from Appalachian State University, and am employed at Dialysis Clinics, Inc., as a Renal Dietitian. I am a Christian and my goal in life is to try to bring glory to Jesus Christ through whatever means I can,â&#x20AC;? Harvey said. For Harvey and the many PD sufferers like him the main treatment of choice is medication. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;gold standardâ&#x20AC;? in that regard is Sinemet, or levodopa, which at some point he said most PD patients will need to take as it helps replace the dopamine losses in their brains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are also other treatments such as surgery,â&#x20AC;? he added. Harvey said perhaps the best-known PD sufferers are Michael J. Fox and Muhammad Ali. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Both have done a great deal in getting information about the disease out in the media and the public,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I do believe that there has been more attention placed on research and finding a cure for the disease because of them.â&#x20AC;? Harvey believes PD patients can help the informational process by participating in clinical trials, which he feels is the way that new drugs and therapies are developed for future treatments. The outlook While Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease itself is not fatal, the Centers for Disease Control rated complications from the disease as the 14th top cause of death in the United States. There is currently no cure for Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s; however, the PD suffererâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doctors will be focused and dedicated to finding treatments that help control the diseaseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s symptoms, affording the patient a good quality of life, he noted. According to the National Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disease Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s web site the dopamine-producing brain cells (neurons) â&#x20AC;&#x153;concentrate in a particular area of the brain, called the substantia nigra.â&#x20AC;? Dopamine, the chemical that relays messages between the substantia nigra and other parts of the brain to control movements of the human body, helps humans to have smooth coordinated muscle movements, the site states. When a large percentage (60 to 80 percent) of the dopamine-producing cells are damaged, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t produce enough dopamine, the motor symptoms of Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease appear. This process of brain cell impairment is called neurodegeneration. Diagnosis The NPD Foundation acknowledges there is no â&#x20AC;&#x153;one wayâ&#x20AC;? to completely or clearly diagnose PD. However, it noted on its web site there are various symptoms and diagnostic tests used in combination. How is the disease treated? Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease therapies are directed at treating the symptoms that are most bothersome to an individual with the disease. The NPDF said there is no standard, or â&#x20AC;&#x153;bestâ&#x20AC;? treatment that applies to every patient. Currently data is being gathered to develop an individualized best approach to patient care. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Treatment approaches include medication and surgical therapyâ&#x20AC;? the web site states. Other treatment approaches listed on the site include general lifestyle modifications (rest and exercise), physical therapy, support groups, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Harvey said anyone wishing to know more about PD and its symptoms can simply GoogleÂŽ it and check out the many web sites dedicated to it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just too numerous to mention here in one article,â&#x20AC;? he said. Anyone wishing to know more about when the Cherryville PD group meets can call Cherryville First Presbyterian Church at (704) 435-6064, or call Dan himself at (704) 297-0865.
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Simple approach can increase your Dentures in a day - a new service thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s close to home! performance, extend your life By Billy Wease, R. Ph. Prescriptions Plus Pharmacy
Despite living in the twenty-first century and having access to countless health and wellness options, over 150 million men in the U.S. suffer unnecessarily â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and ultimately die â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as though theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re living in the early 1900â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. As a clinical compounding pharmacist, believe me when I tell you, there is no need to settle for â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am just getting old.â&#x20AC;? I encourage you to embrace a more proactive approach to living life to the fullest. We live in a strange world where we take better care of our teeth than the rest of our body. Your teeth and the remaining 75 trillion cells that make up your body deserve equal time and attention. A well-known and sobering fact is that men die younger than women and are more likely to die from the top-ten overall causes of death, most notably heart disease, cancer, stroke, emphysema and bronchitis (COPD), diabetes, and more. So why the higher death rate? Men are 33% less likely to pro actively visit their doctor than women. Men have been conditioned to be tough, ignore symptoms and keep their nose to the grind stone. The belief that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;if it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t broken, there is no need to fix itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; should never be applied to your health and wellness. For instance, if you ignore cholesterol, high blood pressure, urinary or bowel changes they will gain momentum and catch up with you sooner or later with a full head of steam. This is no different than neglecting to check your vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fluids or tire pressure. Neglect can put the fastest car (or luckiest guy) on the receiving end of an unwelcome surprise. If most men cared for and maintained themselves as well as a car, they could increase their â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;gas mileageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and even extend the length of their lives. I created a great â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;stay out of trouble ruleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that I routinely share with my customers. I call it â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the three Pâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s: if it persists, progresses or is pronounced, it is time to become a proactive patient. Get proactive Recently, being proactive saved a man in his 40â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s from settling for a status quo. A gentleman named Mike, arrived at my pharmacy, after trying countless late night commercial â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;male performanceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; products
and even a prescription item â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for what ended up being merely a symptom. Mike worked fifty hours a week, coached little league, rode his Harley on the weekends and seemed to have every reason to feel great and happy, except one thing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; he had to try way to hard to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rise to lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s occasionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. I shared with him that his testosterone level may need to be checked. His doctor checked and the level was too low. Now he simply uses a daily topical testosterone product and a natural supplement to increase blood flow. He is happy, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lost weight and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even regained muscle mass. He has no need for expensive products being sold on late night television.
Submitted by: One Day Smile Dentures A service of Young & Associates Family Dentistry
Choose your family dentist and still get the affordability and convenience of dentures in one day from the dentist you already know and trustâ&#x20AC;Śplus right here at home! There is a fast and affordable way to get new dentures or replace your old ones without having to drive to Charlotte! The process is simple for the new denture wearer. Most people want their dentures immediately for the sake of appearance but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like the idea of fighting traffic for hours of driving and spending a day in a waiting room. For dentures in one day, you will begin
at 7:00 am for a consultation and full mouth x-ray. After review of the x-ray, your dentist will extract the teeth to be replaced and taken an impression for your new dentures. This typically takes about 12 hours total. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be asked to return around 3pm on the same day to receive your new dentures. This part of the process take about 30 minutes, with a follow up visit in 6-12 months to reline your new dentures. While it is not a new concept to make dentures that you can afford and to make them in one day, it is new and comforting to know that you are being treated in a family dentist practice right here in Cleveland County and not a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;denture warehouseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the City.
The solution The recommendations I give to my male customers age 30 and up are simple and straightforward. This advice has turbocharged the health and wellness of thousands of men, and I strongly encourage you to visit with a doctor and pharmacist about these approaches and see if it makes sense for you and your health goals. Try to rid yourself of reluctance in making proactive health decisions. Think of your body as a vehicle and your doctor and pharmacist as your mechanics. They are there to help you get the car tuned to itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best performance possible. Billy recommends â&#x20AC;˘ Exercise 4 to 5 times a week, even if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just taking a twenty-minute walk each day. â&#x20AC;˘ Drink no less than 64 ounces of high quality purified water than has an alkaline pH. â&#x20AC;˘ Get your blood sugar measured every 6 months and your blood pressure measured every 1 to 2 months. â&#x20AC;˘ Take a daily multivitamin without iron. Why no iron? Because iron rusts, also known as oxidation. â&#x20AC;˘ Use a broad antioxidant. Every breath you take introduces oxygen into your body that feeds oxidation; antioxidants are what I call â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;anti-rustâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; supplements. â&#x20AC;˘ Take care of your prostate gland â&#x20AC;&#x201C; use a prostate support product. Your doctor or pharmacist will guide you toward a great product with lycopene, zinc, and herbs. â&#x20AC;˘ Take vitamin D. An adequate vitamin D level is important to maintain optimal health.
Based on their experience, over 99% of our patients and families would recommend us. Serving Cleveland County and surrounding areas for over 25 years! 951 W Wendover endo v er Heights Driv Drive, e , Shelb Shelby, y, NC 28150 Â&#x2021; Z Z Z K R V S L F H F D U H V F F Â&#x2021; ZZZ KRVSLFHFDUHV FF
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FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT® FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
AFTERSCHOOL FUN STARTS HERE It’s time to think about “Back to School!” At the Y, kids engage in physical, learning and imaginative activities that encourage them to explore who they are and what they can achieve. The program follows the Cleveland County Schools calendar and care is offered on all regularly scheduled school days. For more information or to register, contact your YMCA or visit clevecoymca.org.
Visit clevecoymca.org for more information
Dover Foundation YMCA Shelby, NC 704.484.9622
Kings Mountain Family YMCA Kings Mountain, NC 704.739.9631
Girls Club YMCA Shelby, NC 704.482.8431
Ruby C. Hunt YMCA Boiling Springs, NC 704.434.0441