SWGA HEALTH BEAT - JULY 2018

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July 2018 MEDICAL | DENTAL | FITNESS | TIPS | EDUCATION | TRAINING

Health Southwest Georgia

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ERIN CANNINGTON, MD Allergy & Asthma Clinics Of Georgia

JINNE´ RICHARDS, MD Medical Director

Hospice

Summer Heat Facts Laser Vision Health Tip Women’s Health

Look inside for Dr. Oz

ANTHONY BURKE, DO

According to a Study by CNN, Greater consumption of Coffee could lead to a longer life

#1 Health Magazine In Southwest Georgia

Cardiology Affinity Clinic

JAMES PALAZZOLO, MD Sleep Apnea Centers of America

KEISHA CALLINS, MD

KELLY MILLER, FNP-BC

TIFTON | ALBANY | AMERICUS | BAINBRIDGE | SYLVESTER | THOMASVILLE VALDOSTA | CORDELE | MOULTRIE AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center

This is the #1 Health Magazine Covering Southwest Georgia

Email UpcomingEvents EventsTo To Mail Upcoming swgahealthbeat@albanyherald.com swgahealthbeat@albanyherald.com

CONTENTS and Eye Cancer 3 Smoking musculoskeletal health Good Dental 4 Snack Care 4 healthyon something Eye Center Is DARK chocolate South 55 healthy?

Support Groups Breast Cancer Support Group A group for women with breast cancer.

The group meets on the second Thursday of each month from 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. in the Radiation Oncology

Classes and Events

Conference Room at Phoebe. Call 229-312-7161 for more information

Spiritual Care and You

Sit down with one of Phoebe’s chaplains to discuss how spiritual care can impact your life during and after cancer treatment. This is great for individual sessions with a chaplain or to include caregivers and/or other loved ones.

Safe Sitter Classes One-on-one/small group appointments available. Contact Kimberly Smith at 229-312-4670 or krsmith@phoebehealth.com to make your July 10-11, 2018, 9:00AM-4:00PM appointment.

Join our safe sitter summer class! Designed to prepare students in grades 6-8 to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting.

ClassSitter location: Phoebe HealthWorks 311 Third Ave., Albany, GA 31701 Safe Classes

Annualwait Screenings Don’t to talk 66 about Hospice for High School Athletes Drs. Oz & Roizen 7

July 10-11, 2018, 9:00AM-4:00PM Golden Keysummer Seminars Join our safe sitter class! Designed to prepare students in grades 6-8 Golden Key seminars take place in the conference rooms at toPhoebe be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting.

Northwest, 2336 Dawson Road in Albany.Thursday, Class Phoebe 311 Third Ave., Albany, GA 31701 Julylocation: 19, 2018, 9 a.m. -HealthWorks 2 p.m.

Be an AARP Smart Driver Golden Key Seminars

Dr. Oz & Roizen Family 8 Phoebe & Health 8 Medicine Tip Residency

Safe Driving Class Thursday, July 19, 2018, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Saturday, 14, 2018, 1place p.m. 4 p.m., Phoebe Northwest Golden KeyJuly seminars take in the conference rooms at Phoebe Northwest, Reservations are required for AARP safe driving classes; 2336 Dawson Road in Albany. call 229-312-2418

Be an AARP Smart Driver Safe Driving Class Saturday, July 14, 2018 | 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. | Phoebe Northwest Reservations are required for AARP safe driving classes; Call 229-312-2418

Identifying and with How teens cope 99 stress Understanding Dehydration 10 Thirty Years Later Laser Vision of Take Charge Correction Remains Thyroid 10 AYour Good Option Condition For Many

J U L Y

JULY

CALENDAR CalendarOF ofEVENTS Events

Let’s Talk Women’s

Talk Women’s 11 Let’s Health Health

CONTACTS CONTACTS PhilCody Cody Phil Majors/National Majors/NationalSales Representative Sales Representative 229-888-9304 229-888-9304 Ashanti Smith

Ashanti Smith

Multi-Media Multi-Media Representative Representative 229-888-9340

229-888-9340

Heather Harrison

Multi-Media Heather Harrison Representative Multi-Media 229-888-9370

Representative 229-888-9370

Matt Behrens

Multi-Media Matt Behrens Representative 229-888-9337 Multi-Media

Representative 229-888-9337

 PREPARED CHILDBIRTH CLASS

Covers general topics related to labor, delivery and basic care for a baby. We request that mothers be at least 28 weeks, but it is not required.

When: All sessions are held on Saturdays from 9 am-12 pm in the TRMC Meeting Rooms (first floor of TRMC), 901 East 18th Street, Tifton. To see dates this class is offered or to register please call 229-353-7605 or register on-line.

 BREASTFEEDING CLASS

Covers breastfeeding decision-making, preparation, instruction and helpful tips.

When: All sessions are held at 6 pm in the TRMC OB Classroom (second floor of TRMC), 901 East 18th Street, Tifton.

To see the dates this class is offered or to register please call 229-353-7605 or register on-line.

SUPPORT GROUPS  NEW PARENTS BREAKFAST CLUB

Providing a networking and support group opportunity for all expectant and new parents.

When: Every Monday at 10 am Where: TRMC OB Classroom (second floor of TRMC), 901 East 18th Street, Tifton How: No registration necessary. Call 229-353-7605 for more information

 BREAST CANCER SUPPORT

Facilitated by the TRMC Women’s Health Navigator, this support group is open to breast cancer patients and survivors as well as their caregivers.

When: First Tuesday of each month, 6 pm Where: First Baptist Church Family Life Center, 404 Love Avenue, Tifton How: Call 229-353-6325 to register or for more information

 CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Open to any cancer patient or person providing care to a cancer patient When: Every fourth Tuesday of the month at 5:30 pm Where: TRMC Oncology Center, 1623 Madison Avenue, Tifton How: Call 229-386-1300 to register or for more information

DISTRIBUTION: DISTRIBUTION:

Southwest Georgia Health Beat has over 300,000 Southwest Georgia Health Beat has over 300,000 print-online monthly readers and distributes print-online monthly readers and distributes monthly to prime locations. monthly to prime locations.

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LOCATIONS TO PICK UP YOUR COPY ARE: LOCATIONS TO PICK UP YOUR COPY ARE: Hospitals, Medical Offices, Drug Stores, Grocery

Hospitals, Medical Offices, Drug Stores, Grocery Stores, Dental Offices, Fitness Centers, Colleges, Tech Stores, Dental Offices, Fitness Centers, Colleges, Tech Schools and Industry Break Rooms Schools and Industry Break Rooms

SMOKING AND MUSCULOSKELETAL HEALTH Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of death and disease in the US. According to the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 19.3% (45.3 million) of US adults are current cigarette smokers.

Of these, 78.2% (35.4 million) smoke every day, and 21.8% (9.9 million) smoke some days, and men smoke more than women. Tobacco use can cause or contribute to heart disease, multiple types of cancer, pulmonary disease, adverse reproductive effects; it can also exacerbate chronic health conditions. Each year in the US, approximately 443,000, or 1 out of every 5, people die from tobacco-related diseases. Smoking has an estimated cost of $96 billion in direct medical expenses and $9 billion in lost productivity each year.

Cigarette smoking not only affects the quantity and quality of the smoker’s life, but also the lives of those who are exposed to secondhand smoke. Approximately 60% of nonsmokers in the US have biologic evidence of exposure to secondhand smoke, and studies suggest that even the smallest amount of exposure can have negative health effects. Bone density loss has also been found in people exposed to secondhand smoke. The rates of exposure to secondhand smoke have made it the third leading cause of preventable death in America.

The musculoskeletal system (bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves) can be significantly affected by tobacco exposure. Tobacco smokers experience a decrease in bone mineral density that increases the risk of osteoporotic (porous bone) fractures. Smokers have impaired bone and wound healing, which can result in slower healing after a fracture or after surgery.

Risk factors associated with tobacco use include the following: • Nicotine, the most powerful substance in tobacco, causes a decrease in blood flow to all tissues in the human body.

Proper blood flow is vital for wound and fracture healing and the overall good health of bone, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

• Each year more women die from hip fractures than from breast cancer. Smoking has been identified as a major risk factor for the development of osteoporosis and osteoporotic related hip fractures.

• Smoking is associated with rotator cuff disease in the shoulder.

• There is a strong association between decreased bone density and altered reproductive functions in women caused by reduced estrogen production secondary to tobacco exposure.

• Studies show that mothers who were exposed to tobacco delivered babies with low birth weight, and decreased bone development.

• Smoking has been indentified as a risk factor in rheumatoid arthritis.

• Smokers have a greater chance of developing systemic lupus erythematosus, which is an inflammatory, multisystemic, autoimmune disease of the connective tissue. It is characterized by fever, skin lesions, joint pain or arthritis, and anemia, and can affect the kidneys, spleen, and various other organs.

Every tissue in the body is affected by smoking. So if you smoke, quit. If you quit smoking before surgery, it can help improve postoperative wound healing and decrease recovery time. It can also improve pulmonary function and decrease the risk of complications, such as pneumonia, stroke, heart attack, blood clots, and death, all of which can occur during the perioperative period.

John Arnold, MD, MPH Reprinted with permission: Hughston Health Alert 2013;25(2):7

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Snack on something healthy

Healthy snacks are a great way to quell hunger pangs without feeling guilty. The following recipe for “Cauliflower Popcorn” from Bob Blumer’s “Surreal Gourmet Bites” (Chronicle Books) is a sweet-tasting alternative to unhealthy snacks.

1 head cauliflower 4 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon salt (or, for a salt-free alternative, Mrs. Dash table blend)

Preheat oven to 425 F. Cut out and discard cauliflower core and thick stems. Trim remaining cauliflower into florets the size of golf balls.

In a large bowl, add cauliflower, olive oil and salt. Toss thoroughly. Spread cauliflower on a baking sheet (line with parchment paper, if available, for easy cleanup). Roast for 1 hour, or until much of the floret has become golden brown.

(That’s the caramelization process converting the dormant natural sugars into sweetness.

The browner the florets, the sweeter they will taste.) Turn 3 or 4 times during roasting.

Use crumpled up aluminum foil or paper towels to create a false bottom in your popcorn container, fill it with cauliflower, and serve immediately.

Note: Raw cauliflower can be precut and refrigerated for up to 2 days in an airtight bag or a bowl of water.

With minimal sacrifice, cauliflower can be cooked earlier in the day and reheated in a 450 F oven for 10 minutes.

Summer HEAT facts and safety (MCC) For many people, summertime is synonymous with trips to the beach, water sports and recreation.

Even though summer warmth is a welcome break from winter weather for many people, State Farm warns that heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities, resulting in hundreds of deaths each year in the United States alone.

Ensuring summer recreation plans remain enjoyable means keeping an eye out for heat-related illnesses and other dangers.

• Hot cars can be traps. It is never safe to leave a pet, child, elderly person, or disabled individual locked in a car. Temperatures can climb rapidly inside of a sealed vehicle, even if the windows are cracked.

• Pay attention. Listen to or read weather forecasts to stay abreast of potential temperature changes as well as the heat index. Discuss safety precautions with members of the family and make sure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

• Stock up on fluids. The Red Cross says to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, even if you are not thirsty. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine. Make sure the elderly also get plenty of water, as they often do not recognize dehydration as readily as others.

• Limit strenuous activities. Reschedule outdoor activities if there is a heat wave, or move them to cooler times of the day. Spend the hottest portion of the day, usually between noon and 3 p.m., in the shade or inside in the air conditioning. People on job sites should take more frequent breaks and find shade whenever possible during these hours.

• Change your clothes. Loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing will help keep you cool. Avoid dark colors when spending time in the sun.

• Recognize distress signals. Heat stress, exhaustion and heat stroke progress as symptoms worsen. Nausea, weakness, elevated body temperature, clammy skin, confusion, and delirium are some of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

• Find ways to stay cool. Not everyone has air conditioning. On especially warm days, going to public places with air conditioning, such as libraries, can help. Be sure to check on the elderly or others who may have difficulty finding cool places to spend their day.

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Days in the sun are meant to be fun, but hot days also require extreme caution.

Is DARK chocolate healthy?

Dark chocolate is rich in cocoa solids, which contain compounds known as flavonolds. At high levels, cocoa flavanols have been shown to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, improve cognition and possibly lower the risk of diabetes. But limit your portions to about 1 ounce a day.

By Lisa Drayer, CNN (CNN)Yes, dark chocolate has compounds that offer health benefits and can be enjoyed without guilt, even on a daily basis. But the portion size matters, since too many bites can contribute extra fat, sugar and calories and negate its health benefits.

Dark chocolate is rich in cocoa solids, which contain compounds known as flavanols. At high levels, cocoa flavanols have been shown to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, improve cognition and possibly lower the risk of diabetes. Dark chocolate has the highest amount of cocoa flavanols; milk chocolate has less, and white chocolate has none.

But while cocoa flavanols in dark chocolate make it a healthful treat, they give it a bitter flavor.

Manufacturers may process chocolate to make it more palatable, but doing so can remove some of these beneficial compounds.

Factors in processing, including fermentation and roasting, which deepen the flavor and give chocolate its distinct aroma, can affect flavanol content, explained Matt Hartings, assistant professor of chemistry at American University.

“Roasting generates all sorts of new flavors ... and to generate those flavors, you have to destroy molecules in the unroasted bean ... and there is always the chance that it is destroying compounds that we want around, including flavanols,” Hartings said.

Though the flavanol content may vary among dark chocolate brands, it’s still a healthier choice than milk chocolate, which also tends to have more sugar.

If you need more justification to enjoy dark chocolate, consider this: A third of the fat in cocoa butter is stearic acid, a saturated fat that, unlike other saturated fats, appears to have a neutral

effect on blood cholesterol. Additionally, cocoa powder contributes minerals, including calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.

So feel free to enjoy a piece of dark chocolate after a meal. Just keep a few facts in mind before you indulge.

First, buy chocolate that is at least 60% cacao (i.e. cocoa). Generally speaking, the higher the percentage, the more flavanols, though the exact amount varies from batch to batch and depends on the extent of processing, according to Hartings.

“These higher-percentage chocolates have the added benefit over the lower percentages and milk and white chocolates because they contain less sugar and less fat,” he said.

Second, if possible, choose natural cocoa over Dutch processed cocoa, which is treated with an alkali, a compound that neutralizes acid. This gives chocolate a milder flavor but removes healthful flavanols.

If you are cooking, the ultimate choice of cocoa will depend on the recipe, according to Hartings.

“Some things are just better if you bake with Dutch processed cocoa,” he said. “If one ingredient in a recipe is highly acidic, then with natural cocoa, it may be too acidic.”

And finally, to keep weight in check, limit portions to 1 ounce of dark chocolate daily, or about 150 calories.

Lisa Drayer is a nutritionist, an author and a CNN health and nutrition contributor.

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DON’T WAIT TO TALK ABOUT

HOSPICE

It’s an all too common situation. A family is at the bedside of a loved one who is seriously ill and nearing the end of life. ach member of the family has a different idea of what should be done and what the patient would have wanted.

Far too many people wait until they are in the midst of a health care crisis before thinking about what options are available or what care they or their loved ones would have wanted. Often, by waiting too long to learn about possible options, like hospice care, people end up spending difficult days in the hospital or the emergency room and opportunities to be with loved ones at home are lost.

When a family is coping with a serious illness and a cure is no longer possible, hospice provides the type of care most people say they want at the end of life: comfort and dignity. Considered to be the model for high-quality, compassionate care for people with a life-limiting illness, hospice care includes expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support. Care is provided by an interdisciplinary team of professionals and trained volunteers. The wishes of the patient and family are always at the center of care.

Most hospice care is provided in the home – where the majority of Americans have said they would want to be at this time. Care is also provided in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospice centers.

Care is paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans and HMOs. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization reports that more than 1.5 million people received care from our nation’s hospices last year.

Integrity Hospice can help with information about care options and choices and ensure you live as fully as possible throughout your entire life. They will make sure your loved ones receive support as well.

One of the best ways to make sure you and your loved ones benefit fully from hospice, should you ever need this care, is to talk about it before it becomes an issue.

For more information, contact Integrity Hospice @ 229.349.6390. You will also find information about the moments that hospice makes possible for patients and families at www.MomentsOfLife.org.

GET YOUR GREENS WITH OUR FRESHLY-PREPARED

SALADS Crisp and full of flavor. Enjoy a variety of mixed green salads prepared with ribbon-cut carrots and fresh lettuce like crisp chopped romaine, baby spinach, baby kale and red leaf lettuce. And loaded with toppings.

Dr. Jinne’ Richards, MD, Medical Director

1216 Dawson Rd, Ste 113 Albany GA 31707-3867

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555818-1

553684-1

(229) 349 6390

THESE ARE SOME GREAT GREENS!

Influenza vaccine worked better than expected last year; anticholinergic drugs and dementia

BY MICHAEL ROIZEN, M.D., AND MEHMET OZ, M.D. Q: I heard that the flu vaccine worked only 20 to 25 percent of the time last year. Is it even worth getting it this year? -- Lolly G., Stamford, Connecticut A: It’s always worth getting the flu shot, and that 20 to 25 percent effectiveness number was simply an early estimate. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that the effectiveness rate ended up around 36 percent across several different flu strains, but primarily against H3N2. However, even a 20 percent effectiveness rate -- as was the case in 2014-2015 -- prevents an estimated 144,000 flu-related hospitalizations and 4,000 deaths. This year, the vaccine almost doubled that prevention/death rate!

That’s avoiding a lot of misery!

So, yes, get your flu shot as soon as it’s available this fall. Don’t forget, there’s also a cumulative benefit. We can’t put an exact number on it, but we do know that people who receive the vaccination year after year, and who still end up getting sick, tend to have less severe symptoms for a shorter period of time than unvaccinated folks. And getting the flu shot 10 years in a row from age 50 to 60 decreases all causes of death, including from stroke and heart attack, by more than 25 percent.

Plus, there’s the benefit, especially for 30- to 50-year-olds, that comes from creating “herd immunity.” When you’re inoculated against the flu, you’re not putting vulnerable young kids and seniors who may not have been inoculated at risk of coming down with it and suffering serious complications.

Clearly, there’s no downside to getting the flu shot.

(Compared with the odds of preventing serious illness and death, the chance of a serious side effect is 1 in 40,000.) As Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar put it, it’s “the same kind of sensible precaution as buckling your seatbelt.”

So protect yourself and your family by getting vaccinated when the time is right; there’s a schedule for all of your vaccinations at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/ schedules.

Q: My dad is 91, and living in an assisted care facility. He’s recently started taking an anticholinergic medication for a bladder problem and depression. It seems to be dulling him down, and I read that anticholinergic meds are linked with dementia. Should we get him off these pronto? -Quentin, H., Sacramento, California A: First off, these are a powerful class of drugs; never, ever stop taking a medication without a doctor’s supervision. Even aspirin or a statin requires careful consideration before stopping. They need to be stopped slowly. Second, there are alternatives to anticholinergics that may make sense, depending on how your dad handles the side effects. The Golden Rule is that a medication’s benefits need to clearly outweigh any harm it may cause. So let’s take a look at the study you mentioned.

Published in the BMJ, the study looked at the records of more than 40,000 patients with dementia and more than 280,000 without dementia, and analyzed over 27 million prescriptions. The researchers didn’t find a direct relationship between the prescriptions and dementia, and there was no link between people taking inhaled anticholinergics for lung problems and dementia. But they did find that folks who took the most oral anticholinergic meds had higher rates of dementia. Now, we’re not sure which came first, the dementia or the meds, but as far as your dad is concerned there are a couple of takeaways.

We do know that some anticholinergic drugs can cause temporary, short-term cognitive impairment to attention and reaction time. That’s why current guidelines say that frail older people should avoid anticholinergic drugs. If you talk to his doctor about alternative medications, remember that he may have to switch to two medications, which can be a concern, but they may have less serious side effects. On the positive side, the side effects you think he is experiencing may be temporary, but under any circumstance, the smart move is to let his doc know your concerns.

* * *Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr.Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. isChief Wellness Officer and Chair ofWellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic.Email your health and wellness questionsto Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen at youdocsdaily(at sign)sharecare.com.© 2017 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz,M.D.Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

Skin CanCer TreaTmenT ~ Skin examS mohS Surgery ~ mole removal

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Phoebe Family Medicine Residency (PFMR)

T

his time of year is always exciting for those of us associated with the Phoebe Family Medicine Residency (PFMR). Recently, we welcomed 8 new residents to our program during a ceremony at our main hospital campus attended by numerous political, business and healthcare leaders. I know of no other community so dedicated as Albany to giving physician residents such a warm welcome to their town. Our community leaders truly appreciate the PFMR and the young doctors who will serve the people of our region.

These residents will spend the next three years honing their medical skills in and around Albany. They will complete various specialty rotations as they train under a highly-qualified and dedicated team of volunteer faculty members, treating patients in our hospitals as George Fredrick, MD Phoebe Family Medicine Residency Program Director well as our Phoebe Primary Care at Northwest clinic.

This high level of hands-on training, along with a strong academic curriculum, has contributed to our The PFMR started in 1993 and graduated its first graduates having a 100% board pass rate for the past class in 1996. Our goal has always been, not only five years. to train outstanding physicians, but also to improve access to care in Georgia by keeping most of our Also recently, at an emotional graduation ceremony, graduates in our region to practice. The 2018 class we congratulated our 2018 class. Five of those six brings the total number of Phoebe Family Medicine graduates will stay in Georgia. Antwaun Allen, MD Residency graduates to 120. 72% of those graduates plans to practice in Columbus. Shayla Curtis, MD will are currently practicing in Georgia, and the majority serve patients in Fitzgerald. Daniel Smith, MD will of those remain here in southwest Georgia. continue his education through a fellowship before returning to Albany to join Phoebe Orthopaedics. This year, we are expanding the program as we Gary Clay, MD will stay in Albany to work for Phoebe. welcome 8 new residents for the first time. We are on Kristen Krakovec, MD is moving to Florida. And our way to a full complement of 24 residents. We look Kim Ann Dang, MD will undertake a fellowship in forward to that growth and to becoming an even more Macon. We are extremely proud of these graduates. vital part of this community. We thank you for your They all worked hard throughout their three years support of the Phoebe Family Medicine Residency, here at Phoebe, and we know they will serve their and I hope you will join me in congratulating our patients well in the future. recent graduates and welcoming our new residents.

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How teens can cope with stress levels in check.

- Embrace physical activity. The APA notes that being physically active is one of the most effective ways to combat stress. Teens are urged to find activities they enjoy. For example, non-athletes need not try out for the baseball team or another organized sport simply because physical activity is an effective way to reduce stress. Teens are more likely to have fun and relieve stress when participating in a physical activity they enjoy, especially when such activities include their friends.

- Don’t overlook the importance of sleep. The National Sleep Foundation notes that teens need between eight and 10 hours of sleep per night to function best. But the Stress in America survey found that teens sleep an average of just 7.4 hours on school nights. Operating on insufficient sleep can compound existing stress, so teens who are not getting enough rest should make a concerted effort to get more sleep each night.

(MCC) No one is immune to stress. When chronic, stress can have long-lasting negative effects on a person’s overall health, potentially contributing to high blood pressure and weakening sufferers’ immune systems, thereby making them more vulnerable to a host of ailments.

- Schedule time for fun. The APA recommends that teenagers not overbook their schedules, leaving little time to enjoy themselves.

While it’s important to focus on school, teens also should schedule time to have fun, during which they should attempt to avoid worrying about school.

Stress may be most often associated with adults, but teenagers are no strangers to stress. In the 2014 Stress in AmericaTM survey from the American Psychological Association, teens reported that their stress levels during the school year far exceeded what they believed to be healthy. In fact, teens’ reported stress levels during the school year (5.8 on a 10-point scale) actually exceeded adults’ average reported stress levels.

- Discuss stress. The APA notes that stress is more easily handled when those coping with it welcome the assistance of others. Teens can speak about their stress with their parents, teachers or other trusted adults, many of whom likely dealt with similar stress when they were teens. Such adults may even share how they manage their own stress, which can be useful to teens.

In addition to the pressures of school, teens must contend with social pressures. Balancing the two can be difficult, but the APA offers the following tips to teenagers looking to keep their stress

Teens deal with stress every day. In an effort to manage such stress, teens can embrace various strategies. More information about how teens can manage stress is available at www.apa.org.

Common conditions in newborns

once babies calm down.

But persistent blue coloring may indicate that the heart and lungs are not working properly, especially if the blueness According to the Seattle Children’s¨ Health- is accompanied by difficare System, newborns are at higher risk culty breathing and feedfor infections, which may be present at any ing. Immediate medical time during the first month of a child’s life. attention is essential in Watching for signs of illness is crucial, espe- such instances, as babies cially during a child’s first seven days of life. exhibiting such symptoms may not be getting The American Academy of Pediatrics notes enough oxygen in their that certain conditions are especially com- blood. mon during a child’s first few weeks after birth. If spotted, the following conditions Coughing should be brought to the attention of a pe- Some coughing is normal among newborns, who diatrician immediately. may cough when they drink too fast (as babies Abdominal distension Babies’ bellies stick out, especially after adjust to feeding, these coughs should vanthey’ve been fed. But bellies should feel ish). But persistent coughs or gagging dursoft between feedings, so swollen, hard ing feedings may indicate problems with bellies should be discussed with a pediatri- the lungs or digestive tract. cian. Parents also should call their children’s pediatricians if their babies are vomiting or Jaundice have not had a bowel movement for more A yellowish tinge to the skin known as than one or two days. Such symptoms may jaundice is not uncommon among healthy be a byproduct of gas or constipation, but newborns. The result of a buildup of bilirupediatricians should be contacted to rule bin in the child’s blood, jaundice often occurs when the baby’s immature liver is not out potentially serious intestinal issues. yet efficiently removing bilirubin from the bloodstream. Mild jaundice is harmless, Blue baby Mildly blue hands and feet are not neces- but pediatricians may still want to check sarily a problem. Newborns’ hands and feet babies’ bilirubin levels because very high may turn blue when they’re cold, returning levels that are not detected or treated can to pink once they are warm again. In addi- cause damage to the brain or nervous systion, newborns’ faces, tongues and lips may tem. The AAP notes that jaundice is more turn blue after they cry, returning to normal common in newborns who are breastfeed(MCC) Parents of newborns tend to do everything within their power to make their babies as comfortable as possible. But even babies with the most vigilant parents can become ill.

ing, particularly those who are not nursing well. Nursing between eight and 12 times per day can keep bilirubin levels low. Jaundice first appears on the face followed by the chest and abdomen. Healthy babies discharged from the hospital before they are 72 hours old should be seen by a pediatrician within two days of being discharged so their bilirubin levels can be checked. More information about jaundice is available at www.aap.org.

Respiratory distress Babies may need a few hours after birth to develop normal patterns of breathing. But those who need more time may be suffering from respiratory distress. Blockage of the nasal passages, which can be remedied with saline nasal drops and a bulb syringe that hospitals may provide to new parents, may be to blame. However, pediatricians should be notified immediately if babies exhibit fast breathing (more than 60 breaths in a minute), retractions (sucking in the muscles between the ribs with each breath), flaring of the nose, grunting while breathing, or persistent blue skin coloring.

Newborns are susceptible to various conditions in their first hours and days of life.

Parents who suspect anything out of the ordinary should contact their babies’ pediatricians immediately.

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Thirty Years Later—Laser Vision Influenza vaccine worked better than expected last year; anticholinergic dementiaOption For Remainsdrugs A and Good

BY MICHAEL ROIZEN, M.D., AND MEHMET OZ, M.D.

Q: I heard that the flumarks vaccine the worked onlyanniversary 20 to 25 schedules.

Certain health issues and medications may in(NAPS)—2018 30th percent of the time last year. Is it even worth getting Q: My dad is 91, and living in an assisted care facility. first laserG.,vision correction procedure thetaking healing making laser He’s terfere recentlywith started an process, anticholinergic itofthisthe year?

-- Lolly Stamford, Connecticut medication a bladder problem and depression. where, for the first time, vision A: It’s always worth getting thepeople flu shot,with and that 20 isvisionforcorrection a poor choice.

It is important It seems to be dulling him down, and I read that tosues 25 percent effectiveness number was simply an had an option beyond glasses and contact that patients share their complete health history early estimate. The Centers for Disease Control and anticholinergic meds are linked with dementia. lenses to see well.

So far, more than 19 million we get himsurgeon off these to pronto?

-- Quentin, H., with their ensure a recommendation Prevention states that the effectiveness rate ended Should Sacramento, California up aroundprocedures 36 percent across severalperformed different flu LASIK have been in the for off, candidacy upon class all available A: First these arebased a powerful of drugs; facts. strains, but primarily H3N2. alternative However, even U.S., proving it isagainst a popular to the a 20 percent effectiveness rate -- as was the case in never, ever stop taking a medication without a doctor’s supervision. Even aspirin or a statin requires struggle many people with 144,000 their vision.

2014-2015 -- prevents an have estimated flu- In manybefore people are interested carefulBecause consideration stopping.

They need in to LASIK, related hospitalizations and 4,000 This year, fact, the U.S. military reliesdeaths. on LASIK for its be stopped slowly.

Second, there are alternatives to understanding that there is a process for becomthe vaccine almost doubled that prevention/death rate! operation-ready personnel. anticholinergics that may make sense, depending on That’s avoiding a lot of misery! While technologies ing dad a candidate, the procedure how your handles the accepting side effects. that The Golden and techniques have advanced the science of So, yes, get your flu shot as soon as it’s available Rule has is that a medication’s benefits need clearlyis a heallimits, and recognizing thattothere LASIK, notforget, everyone is aa cumulative good candidate this fall. Don’t there’s also benefit. for outweigh any harm it may cause. So let’s take a look at ing and recovery period involved is helpful in We put an exact on it,between but we do15 know the study you mentioned. thecan’t procedure.

Onnumber average, and 20 that people who receive the vaccination year after makinginantheinformed decision. percent of patients are considered ineligible. Published BMJ, the study looked at the year, and who still end up getting sick, tend to have records of more than 40,000 patients with dementia While every patient unique, there arethan general less severe symptoms for aisshorter period of time and more than 280,000 without dementia, and analyzed unvaccinated getting the shotdetermining 10 years in if guidelinesfolks. that And surgeons usefluin over 27 million prescriptions. The researchers didn’t a row from age 50 to 60 decreases all causes of death, find a direct relationship between the prescriptions a patientfrom is astroke candidate forattack, LASIK eye surgery. including and heart by more than and dementia, and there was no link between people 25 percent. taking inhaled anticholinergics for lung problems For adults overthe18,benefit, LASIK can correct Plus, there’s especially for nearsight30- to and dementia. But they did find that folks who took the most oral anticholinergic meds had higher rates 50-year-olds, that comes and fromastigmatism, creating “herd edness, farsightedness within immunity.” When you’re inoculated against the flu, of dementia. Now, we’re not sure which came first, certain ranges setkids by the U.S. Food the dementia or the meds, but as far as your dad is you’re notprescription putting vulnerable young and seniors concerned there are a couple of takeaways. andmay Drug LASIK improves who notAdministration. have been inoculated at risk of coming vidown it and suffering serious complications. sion with by reshaping your cornea—the surface of We do know that some anticholinergic drugs can cause temporary, short-term cognitive impairment there’s no downside to getting the fluan shot. theClearly, eye that helps focus light to create image (Compared with the odds of preventing serious illness to attention and reaction time. That’s why current on death, the retina.

A thorough eyeside exam will and the chance of a serious effect is 1confirm in guidelines say that frail older people should avoid anticholinergic drugs. If you talk to his doctor about the vision correction needed isn’t too extreme.

40,000.)

As Health and Human Services Secretary alternative medications, remember that he may have to Alex Azar put it, “the same kind of sensible Importantly, theit’sprescription should be stable, switch to two medications, which can be a concern, but precaution as buckling your seatbelt.” meaning it has stayed the same for at leastthey a may have less serious side effects. On the positive So protect yourself and your family by getting side, the side effects you think he is experiencing may year. During the exam, the thickness of the corvaccinated when the time is right; there’s a schedule be temporary, but under any circumstance, the smart neaallisof measured to make sure there is enough move is to let his doc know your concerns. for your vaccinations at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/

tissue for the reshaping required to achieve the

Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic. desired amount of correction.

Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen at youdocsdaily(at sign)sharecare.com. (c) 2018 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

health tip

REJUVENATE, INVIGORATE THE MIND AND BODY RELEASE TOXINS WITH KAPALABHATI BREATH Kapalabhati breathing is an advanced yogic breathing technique that offers a host of benefits. If you haven’t yet tried Ujjayi Pranayama, start there and once comfortable with Ujjayi, move onto Kapalabhati breathing.

Often known as “skull-shining breath,”.

When you practice this breath, visualize your skull filling with a bright light; this is how its name came about.

This cleansing breath can help you not only release stress and toxins from the mind and body, it can also help release negative emotions, shake off sluggishness, and energize. It consists of a series of forceful exhalations followed by passive inhalations.

Benefits of Kapalabhati • Cleanses lungs and respiratory system • Strengthens and tones diaphragm and abdominal muscles • Releases toxins

Correction Many

Knowing if you are a good candidate is important for considering any procedure, including LASIK. Finding and working with a highly qualified surgeon, having a complete evaluation of your eyes and vision, and doing your own research into the procedure are important steps in the process. Armed with the facts, both you and your surgeon will have the information needed to make the best recommendation for you and your vision.

To learn more about what to expect from a LASIK consultation, visit www.americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/blog.

Looking at LASIK? Work with a highly qualified ophthalmologist to learn if you are a good candidate for the procedure.

• Increases oxygen to cells, purifying blood in the process • Improves digestion • Energizes and clears mind • Focuses attention • Warms body

no effort as your belly expands.

Perform this cycle 10 times, then allow your breathing to return to normal and observe the sensations in your body.

Repeat these cycles of 10 movements, 3 to 4 times.

How to Perform Kapalabhati The important thing to remember for this exercise is that your inhale is passive and your exhale is the forceful, powerful movement. Start this practice at a slow pace, and with time you can build some speed if it feels comfortable for you to do so.

Contraindication: Do not practice Kapalabhati if you are pregnant, or if you have high blood pressure, acid gastric issues, heart disease, or abdominal pain.

You should also stop or slow down if you feel dizzy or anxious.

Sit comfortably in an upright posture and rest your hands on your lower belly.

If you’re sitting in a chair, make sure to place both feet on the ground.

Take a deep, cleansing breath before you begin, in through your nose and out through your mouth.

Inhale deeply through your nose, filling your belly with air about ¾ way full.

In a quick motion, forcefully expel all the air from your lungs while drawing your navel in toward your spine. The primary movement is from your diaphragm.

Allow your lungs to fill up naturally, with

When to Use Kapalabhati In the morning: Since the Kapalabhati breath is so energizing, try it first thing in the morning for an invigorating wake-up call.

When you’re cold: Kapalabhati is a warming breath, so if your body is chilly, a few rounds of Kapalabhati can warm you up, even on a snowy day.

Mid-afternoon: If you’re feeling a case of the mid-day slump,try a few rounds of Kapalabhati to energize your mind and body to power you through the rest of the day.

Jyotsna Agarwal Certified Holistic Health Life Coach Reiki Master and Tai Chi/Qigong /Yoga Practitioner 8 10| A | A(SCNI) (SCNI)Southern SouthernCommunity CommunityNewspaper NewspaperProduct Product| |July July2018 2018

LET’S TALK

WITH

Keisha R. Callins, MD. MPH ERCER UNIVERSITY

M

SCHOOL OF MEDICINE

Don’t Huff and Puff Your Health Away: Developing Your Action Plan to Defeat Smoking ENLIGHTENMENT Smoking is the most preventable cause of death in the US, and it can be especially harmful for women at all stages of life. You are probably aware that smoking exposes the body to harmful chemicals, but smoking can cause unique challenges to a woman’s health, and second-hand smoke can affect the health of loved ones. Women who smoke have an increased risk of many different problems: cancer of the cervix, breast and vulva; lung diseases and cancer or vascular complications such as heart disease, blood clots, and stroke. They may have difficulty becoming pregnant, and when pregnant, have an increased chance of miscarriage, preterm delivery, preterm loss of fluids, and abnormal location of the placenta. Because toxins can be passed on to the baby, newborns of mothers who smoke can have low weight at birth, a greater chance of problems such as colds, earaches, lung problems, increasing visits to the pediatrician, and even death. Pelvic infections, menstrual cycle issues, onset and severity of menopause, and even bone health can be impacted by the dangers of smoking.

EDUCATION The decision to stop smoking is one of the best gifts you can give to your health, your family, and your bank account. Once you decide to stop smoking, your success requires a strong desire to quit and a strategic plan: 1) Ask yourself why you smoke – is it anxiety, boredom, depression or stress? Seek help for new coping behaviors. You may benefit from talking to a therapist and/ or taking medication, finding a new hobby or activity to occupy your time; 2) Advise yourself about why you need to quit – is it for your health or your kids? Make a contract with yourself about the reason for your decision; 3) Assess yourself for the best time to quit. Pick a date – your birthday, birthday of a loved one, or after an upcoming holiday! 4) Assist yourself – Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or talk to your medical provider about available help with medical therapy. Download the QuitGuide app, text START to 47848, or quit cold turkey! Finally, 5) Arrange yourself accordingly – invest

in nicotine patches to help you during the transition, and “healthy” snacks to manage the urge to have something in your mouth (carrots, celery, gum). Join forces with someone who also plans to quit. Increase your exercise and change your eating habits to manage the possible initial weight gain associated with giving up cigarettes. Last but not least, make it count. Open an account or buy a piggy bank to save the money that you would normally use on cigarettes, then plan a reward.

EMPOWERMENT One of the most helpful things that you can do to help support the decision to change your smoking behavior is to channel the support of the people and places around you. Tell your friends, family and co-workers to hold you accountable – no exceptions. Limit the use or change the locations where you usually buy cigarettes because the staff knows your preferences and are used to accommodating you. You can also engage your usual staff to promise not to sell you cigarettes, even if you demand them. If you are used to smoking after eating, you may need to change locations; and if you are used to smoking with certain friends, you may have to change what activities you do with your friends.

ENCOURAGEMENT If by chance, smoking is not a personal challenge, I am certain that you know someone who needs your help and support to change this harmful behavior, so use this information to help someone you care about. If you are a smoker who is quitting, keep in mind that medication and alternatives, such as vaping, are meant to help your transition but not as a permanent substitute for cigarettes. As with most other things in life, persistence is one of the keys to success. So, if by chance, it takes you longer than you expected or more than one attempt to shake this habit, don’t stop trying to quit smoking. Developing an action plan to remove cigarettes from your life and the lives of your loved ones, is one of the wisest decisions that you will ever make.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH: “AS YOU GROW OLDER, YOU WILL DISCOVER THAT YOU HAVE TWO HANDS, ONE FOR HELPING YOURSELF, THE OTHER FOR HELPING OTHERS.” ~ MAYA ANGELOU ~

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