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HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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Stay active with a healthy Achilles Brought to you by – Roshmi Bhattacharya, MD, Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Wellstar Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Many of us enjoy staying active through sports such as pickleball, tennis, basketball, soccer, running or weekend workouts. These activities are great for our health, but sudden starts, jumps and changes of direction can place tremendous stress on the Achilles tendon. The Achilles is the strongest tendon in the human body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel. It helps lift the heel and propel the body forward when walking, running or jumping. The Achilles tendon has a high load capacity, sustaining peak forces up to 8-10 times body weight during impact activities. However, the load that the tendon is able to withstand declines with age. When the load consistently exceeds the tendon’s capacity for recovery, recurrent micro-tears occur leading to degeneration of the tendon. This can lead to persistent pain called Achilles tendinitis. In other situations, a sudden push-off or landing can result in feeling a “pop” or a sensation of being kicked in the back of the ankle, typical of a complete Achilles rupture. For both severe tendinitis and rupture, pain and swelling may

develop, and walking or standing on the toes of the injured leg may be difficult. Who is at risk? Anyone can rupture an Achilles, but risk may increase when someone returns too quickly to high-impact activity after a period of reduced exercise. Other risk factors include male DR. BHATTACHARYA gender, age 30-40 years, high-impact activity, previous Achilles pain, diabetes, obesity, inflammatory diseases, and smoking Certain medications also can affect tendon health. These include corticosteroids and fluoroquinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin. If new tendon pain or swelling develops while taking one of these antibiotics, stop exercising and contact the prescribing clinician immediately.

• Warm up before activity. • Maintain calf flexibility and strength. • Wear supportive, activity-appropriate shoes. • Include recovery days rather than performing highimpact exercise every day. • Avoid smoking and address persistent Achilles pain before returning to explosive activity. Treatment does not automatically mean surgery. Both surgical and nonsurgical care can be effective. The best approach depends on the type of tear and the patient’s health and activity goals. Treatment typically includes early protection in a splint followed by structured rehabilitation. With or without surgery, recovery can take several months, and returning too quickly can place the healing tendon at risk. The key message is to listen to warning signs. Gradual training, appropriate conditioning and early evaluation of Achilles pain can help keep you safely active.

Can an Achilles rupture be prevented? Not every rupture is preventable, but several habits may reduce your risk: • Increase running, jumping and court sports gradually, especially after time away.

Roshmi Bhattacharya, MD is an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon with Wellstar Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. She has offices in Marietta and Alpharetta. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call (470)-95-ORTHO (956-7846) or go to www.wellstar.org/ortho.

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Wellstar Orthopedics and Sports Medicine provides complete care for all types of bone, joint and soft tissue injuries and conditions, as well as total joint replacements. From diagnosis and treatment through rehabilitation and recovery, we provide expert care at every step. wellstar.org/ortho Wellstar Orthopedics & Sports Medicine 2450 Old Milton Parkway | ALPHARETTA (470) 95-ORTHO

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Personalized Home Care – Going Above & Beyond 2021-2026 WINNER

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Dunwoody • Sandy Springs Brookhaven

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Empowering independence through in-home senior care

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Brought to you by – Home Helpers of Alpharetta and North Atlanta Suburbs

At Home Helpers, our focus every day is matching the right caregiver with each of our clients. We guarantee a good match. Finding the right caregiver is much more than just seeking a professional with great skills. It’s about finding a caregiver with the heart and spirit to make a difference in someone’s life.

Serving Communities North of Atlanta www.HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/Alpharetta

For a free consultation, please call 770-681-0323

Greg and Hilary Eldridge,

Owners – Home Helpers of Alpharetta Certified Senior Advisors(CSA)® Each office is independently owned and operated.

This is National Wellness Month, a time to encourage all of us to focus on important aspects of wellbeing - from stress management and the creation of wholesome habits to self-care. For older adults, wellness is the framework to maintain independence, dignity and their best quality of life. While aging presents natural physical and cognitive changes, professional inhome care acts as a powerful catalyst for senior wellness within the comfort of home. By focusing on preventive health, regular physical movement, mental stimulation and emotional fulfillment, wellness can become not just a theme but an everyday reality. This is also the perfect opportunity to reassess the care needs of aging loved ones. The beauty of professional in-home care lies in its adaptive nature. As personal care needs advance, it’s built to evolve. From basic, occasional assistance to comprehensive support, it matches the aging journey of your loved one while avoiding the “transfer trauma” and anxiety and confusion often caused by having to leave the home they love. Here are just some of the ways a Home Helpers heart-centered, skilled caregiver can help. Proper nutrition and hydration are the foundation of healthy aging, but due to fatigue, mobility issues, or cognitive decline it’s often a struggle. Caregivers can assist with healthy meal preparation and watch fluid intake to prevent dehydration. This is a leading cause of UTI’s (urinary tract infections) and confusion. Regular movement preserves flexibility,

muscle mass and bone density but fear of falling often keeps an older loved one sedentary. A caregiver can provide support with neighborhood walks, following prescribed stretching routines or encourage physical therapy exercises critical to maintain mobility and vitality. As physical limitations increase, help with Activities of Daily Living such as bathing, dressing, grooming and fall prevention are important to reduce injury risks. Medication reminders can help ensure that they’re taken at the right intervals as prescribed. Light housekeeping and assistance with daily chores help keep a clean and clutterfree home. Social isolation and loneliness are major contributors to depression and rapid physical decline. A well-matched caregiver offers genuine companionship, aids family communication, and provides a link to their community and friends or help with transportation to events or appointments. Your personalized Home Helpers care plan can adapt to health shifts and safely speed up recovery from surgery, assist after a return home from a rehabilitation stay or a stroke. We can also provide the specialized care needed for a loved one with the advanced care needs of Alzheimer’s, Dementia or Parkinson’s. As an added support system for families, we have now added Nursing services. From four hours a day, several days a week to 24/7 care, we’re here to help. We can also provide live-in care alternatives that may be a more economical choice. For a free consultation please call Home Helpers of Alpharetta and North Atlanta at (770) 681-0323.

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Thank You for Voting for Us 11 Years in a Row! 2015, 2019, 2023 - 2025

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Back to school, back to the dentist – A checklist for healthy smiles Brought to you by – Roswell Dental Care Dr. Destinee Hood As families in Roswell, Georgia prepare for another school year, there’s one important item that should be on every back-to-school checklist: a dental checkup. At Roswell Dental Care, we help students head back to class with clean, healthy smiles and the confidence that comes with them. August is the ideal time to schedule routine care before calendars get crowded—and it’s also a smart way to catch small problems before they become big distractions during the school year. Why preventive dental visits matter for kids According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children aged 6 to 19, affecting nearly 1 in 5 school-aged children. Left untreated, cavities can cause pain, infections, difficulty eating, and missed school days. Regular cleanings and exams help prevent these problems and ensure your child is set up for a healthy year. At Roswell Dental Care, we check for: • Cavities and early signs of decay • Tooth development and eruption • Gum health • Enamel wear from grinding or acid exposure • Proper oral hygiene habits We also provide fluoride treatments and sealants—proven to reduce the risk of cavities in molars by up to 80%, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Make dental health a learning habit Routine dental visits teach kids that

Dr. Destinee Hood

oral health is part of their overall wellness. We help make those lessons stick by showing kids how to brush and floss effectively, make smart snack choices, and understand the importance of daily care. Need a little help with motivation? We make checkups fun and rewarding, and we’re happy to explain treatment in kid-friendly language. What to pack (and what to avoid) Back-to-school season is also a great time to rethink lunchbox habits. We recommend packing:

✔ Fruits and veggies ✔ Cheese and yogurt ✔ Water instead of juice or soda Avoid sticky candies, gummy vitamins, and sports drinks that bathe teeth in sugar and acid. These can increase cavity risk, especially if children sip on them throughout the day. Care for parents, too While the kids are getting ready for school, don’t forget your own smile! We offer convenient appointments Monday through Thursday and select Fridays for: • Routine cleanings and exams • Teeth whitening and cosmetic touch ups • Botox® and filler treatments for facial rejuvenation and TMJ relief Get your family’s dental care back on track now—before fall schedules fill up! Healthy smiles start here—for students, parents, and everyone in between. Call Roswell Dental Care today to book your back-to-school appointments at 770-998-6736 or visit us at www.roswelldentalcare.com.

Family-owned and providing excellent services for over 40 years. Our services include: • Spa-Like Relaxing Atmosphere • Free Nitrous Oxide and Oral Conscious Sedation • Cone Beam 3D Radiography Digital Scanner – No More Gooey Impressions • Botox and Dermal Filler Master Injector • Platinum Invisalign Provider

Same day appointments available!

770.998.6736 • roswelldentalcare.com 1570 Old Alabama Rd • Ste 102 • Roswell, GA 30076

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Odysseus and medicine in the age of Homer Skin Cancer & Mohs Surgery • Medical Dermatology Vein Care • Cosmetic Services

Honored to be Voted: Best Dermatologist and Best Vein Specialist

Insist on the BEST Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care. He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables. Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 23 years experience as a Dermatology PA and cosmetic dermatology.

Dr. Brent Taylor

Her specialties include general dermatology such as acne, eczema, rashes, hair loss, full body skin exams, abnormal growths etc. Kathryn also specializes in cosmetic dermatology including lasers, injectables, micro-needling, PRP, facial peels, sclerotherapy for spider veins and at home skin care. WINNER

Kathryn Filipek, PA-C

WINNER

2025 WINNER Best Of WINNER Best Of WINNERBest Of WINNERBest Of Of 2021 Best North 2018 North 2020 North 2023 North Atlanta Best Of Atlanta Best OfNorth Best Of Atlanta Best OfAtlanta North North North North Atlanta AtlantaAtlanta Atlanta Atlanta Presented By 2017

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Accepting new patients. We accept Medicare. Schedule your appointment with Premier Dermatology today. 3180 North Point Parkway, Suite 420 • Alpharetta, GA 30005 PremierDermatologyAtlanta.com • 678-345-1899

Brought to you by – Premier Dermatology Medical science can sometimes help us step back in time and understand the past as though centuries no longer separate us. Homer's The Odyssey has received renewed attention through Christopher Nolan's recent film adaptation, providing an opportunity to revisit medicine in Homer's world. By understanding the effects of two plants— nightshade and snowdrops—modern pharmacology sheds light on one of the epic's most perplexing episodes: the transformation of Odysseus's men into swine. Christopher Nolan's adaptation includes the startling scene in which the sorceress Circe turns Odysseus's men into pigs. In Homer's original epic, Circe poisons the soldiers' drink. The god Hermes gives Odysseus an antidote in the form of a plant called Moly, described as having a black root and a white flower. Odysseus consumes the herb, drinks Circe's poisoned brew without harm, then confronts Circe and rescues his men. To modern audiences, Circe's potion seems fantastical. But to ancient listeners familiar with local plants and traditional healing, it may have suggested something far more recognizable. One influential interpretation proposes that Circe's potion was inspired by poisonous plants of the nightshade family, which profoundly affect the nervous system. Normally, the body shifts between "rest and digest" and "fight or flight" through the action of acetylcholine. Nightshade blocks acetylcholine, pushing the nervous system toward "fight or flight." In larger doses, the consequences become severe. Poisoning by nightshade produces the classic symptoms: "blind as a bat, mad as a hatter, red as a beet, hot as a hare, dry as a bone." Victims may suffer blurred vision, impaired sweating, confusion, hallucinations, and delusions. Nightshade is among history's most famous poisons, appearing in Homer, Shakespeare, and countless ancient texts. Homer's audience would likely have recognized its effects. Nightshade could leave Odysseus's men as helpless as pigs—or even convince them they were pigs. Medical historians have suggested that Moly may have been the snowdrop (Galanthus), which has a white flower, dark roots when freshly dug up, and which contains galantamine, a compound that increases acetylcholine activity and largely counteracts the effects

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of nightshade. But snowdrops are not harmless. In excessive doses, they can slow the heart, weaken breathing, lower blood pressure, and become poisonous themselves. Only a master herbalist or a hero with Hermes as his guide could have chosen the proper balance. For ancient audiences, the story likely gained another layer of suspense now largely lost on us. They may have recognized that Moly itself was dangerous. Once Odysseus swallowed it, the clock began ticking. Odysseus had to drink Circe’s nightshade before the snowdrop killed him. The antidote became the poison, and the poison became the antidote. When Odysseus consumed Moly, ancient listeners may have experienced the same suspense we feel watching heroes race to obtain an antidote in modern films. When Odysseus swallowed one poison in preparation for another, ancient listeners, too, were likely on the edge of their seats. Almost any substance can be a medicine at one dose and a poison at another. That paradox—and the knowledge that Hermes' "gift" was both antidote and toxin—deepens our understanding of the peril Odysseus faced. Between Circe and Hermes, nightshade and snowdrops, he navigates a medicinal Scylla and Charybdis in which each plant is both poison and cure. A knowledge of ancient herbal medicine and modern pharmacology makes sense of a scene of soldiers turned into pigs and helps us appreciate a moment of tremendous danger and suspense for our great ancient hero Odysseus.

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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Specialist in Integrative Oncology Cancer Treatments Including: Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Nutrition Supplementation ISTOCK

Rethinking Chemotherapy Brought to you by – Jonathan Stegall, MD Chemotherapy side effects such as hair loss, nausea, and vomiting are the result of the high doses of chemotherapy typically administered. STEGALL This method of administration is called maximum tolerated dose, and typically requires between 1-3 weeks of recovery time before another dose can safely be given. Such breaks are necessary to reduce (but not eliminate) the risk of more significant side effects. However, I believe there is a better way, which is to administer chemotherapy more often using lower doses. This method is known as fractionated metronomic chemotherapy. It allows for more frequent “hits” to the cancer cells, while also improving the safety profile considerably. Research studies support these findings. I have been administering chemotherapy in my oncology practice this way for years and have been amazed by the results. The risk of side effects, while certainly not eliminated, is significantly lower. As a result, patient quality of life is much better, all while still routinely seeing a good clinical response to treatment. This integrative approach also includes a focus on supportive therapies such as intravenous vitamin C, mistletoe, hyperthermia, nutrition,

supplementation, repurposed medications, and stress reduction, to name a few. For more information about this

treatment approach, as well as many other tools in the anti-cancer toolbox, please check out my website at tcfam. com.

Jonathan Stegall, MD

Feel good about your teeth. 2018

2020

Best Of North Atlanta

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2021

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

2023

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

WINNER 2016

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

Honored as 1st Runner Up Best Dentist 2018

Honored as Winner Best Dentist 2019

Honored as 1st Runner Up Best Dentist 2020

Honored as 1st Runner Up Best Dentist 2021

We provide full-service general and cosmetic dentistry for our valued patients and measure our success in our ability to always exceed your expectations.

Honored as 1st Runner Up Best Dentistry 2023

• One-Day Crowns •

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2016 Of Best Of Best North North Atlanta Atlanta Presented By

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Holistic/ Alternative Medicine

Nutritionist

Oncology

• Implant Therapy • General and Cosmetic Dentistry

770 569-0613

northfultonsmiles@gmail.com | www.northfultonsmiles.com 12315 Crabapple Road, Suite 121, Alpharetta, Georgia 30004

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3333 Old Milton Pkwy. Suite 560 • Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 551-2730 tcfam.com

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The latest advances in dentistry and patient care Brought to you by – Atlanta Center for Dental Health If it's been several years since your last visit to the dentist, you may be surprised by how much dentistry has changed. Advances in technology, materials, and research have transformed the way dentists diagnose problems, restore teeth, and help patients maintain healthy smiles. Dr. Nicole Sykora, the newest associate dentist at Atlanta Center for Dental Health, recently completed her dental education at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry after earning her bachelor's degree from the University of Florida. As a recent graduate, she has trained with many of the newest technologies and techniques now becoming standard in modern dental care. "One of the biggest changes is how digital dentistry has improved both accuracy and patient comfort," says Dr. Sykora. "Many procedures that once required traditional impressions can now be completed with digital scanners that create highly detailed three-dimensional images of a patient's teeth." Digital imaging has also improved

diagnosis. Three-dimensional X-rays allow dentists to evaluate teeth, bone, and surrounding structures with greater precision, helping identify problems earlier and plan treatment more accurately. Modern dental education also emphasizes preserving healthy tooth structure whenever possible. New materials and adhesive techniques often allow dentists to restore damaged teeth while removing less healthy enamel than was required in the past. This conservative approach helps teeth remain stronger over the long term. Another important area of focus is prevention. Today, dentists spend significant time helping patients understand how daily habits, nutrition, and regular preventive care affect longterm oral health. Research continues to show that healthy gums and teeth contribute to overall health and quality of life. Although technology continues to advance, Dr. Sykora believes one thing has remained unchanged. "The most important part of dentistry is building relationships with patients," she says. "Technology is an incredible tool, but listening to patients, understanding

their concerns, and helping them feel comfortable is what creates a positive dental experience." As dentistry continues to evolve, patients benefit from treatments that are more precise, more comfortable, and more conservative than ever before. For many people who haven't visited a dentist in several years, they may be pleasantly surprised by how different a modern dental appointment can be. “Preventive Dentistry can add 10 years to human life." – Dr. Charles Mayo of the Mayo Clinic Dr. Bradley Hepler, Dr. Nicole Sykora, and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health provide the most modern advances in comprehensive dentistry. Experience immediate results with procedures to greatly enhance your smile and your health. If you would like a complimentary consultation to discover which of these options is best for you, please call us at 770-992-2236. Dr. Hepler and Dr. Sykora are highly trained to provide you with the latest and best techniques to allow you to achieve your cosmetic and restorative goals.

Dr. Nicole Sykora

THANKS FOR VOTING US BEST OF NORTH ATLANTA 2022 2022

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Best Dentist Dr. Bradley Hepler

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TRUSTED, COMFORTABLE DENTAL CARE • General and Cosmetic Dentistry • Crowns and Implants • Root Canals and Tooth-Colored Fillings • Invisalign

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11190 Haynes Bridge Rd., Alpharetta (770) 992-2236 • atlantacenterfordentalhealth.com

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For more Information About us

There are no secrets or shortcuts to a better you, but there is a better way to get there.

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The hidden stress of back-to-school season Brought to you by – OlympusMD Milton August is one of the busiest—and most demanding—times of the year. Classrooms fill up, football practices begin in the Georgia heat, family schedules become hectic, and students, teachers, and parents are suddenly exposed to hundreds of people each day. It's no surprise that this is also when many people begin feeling run down. The combination of heat, dehydration, increased physical activity, less sleep, added stress, and greater exposure to viruses can create the perfect storm for fatigue and illness. Studentathletes are pushing through demanding practices, teachers are preparing classrooms while spending hours on their feet, and parents are balancing work, school schedules, and extracurricular activities. While no treatment can guarantee you won't get sick, there are simple steps that may help support your body's natural defenses. Staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, eating a nutrientrich diet, managing stress, and maintaining regular physical activity all play

important roles in supporting overall wellness. For individuals who struggle to stay hydrated—especially athletes, educators, and those with demanding schedules— some people choose wellness services such as vitamin-infused IV hydration as part of their overall health routine. These services are intended to complement, not replace, healthy lifestyle habits or medical care. The goal isn't just to make it through back-to-school season. It's to have the energy to enjoy it. As a thank-you to those who invest so much in our community, OlympusMD Wellness is proud to offer special backto-school savings for local educators on select immune-support and IV hydration services throughout the month. And because we've always believed in supporting our local student-athletes, we continue to offer special pricing on IV hydration services to help them stay hydrated and support peak performance during another demanding sports season. Here's to a healthy, successful school year, Milton.

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www.olympusmdwellness.com | 470-359-4815 12635 Crabapple Rd., Ste 140, Milton, GA 30004

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HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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HEARING CARE IS HEALTH CARE... When you take care of your hearing health, you take care of your quality of life and overall health. Decatur • 404-500-1026 1270 McConnell Dr. • Ste D • Decatur, GA 30033 Dunwoody/Sandy Springs • 770-394-9499 1713 Mt. Vernon Rd. • Ste. 4 • Dunwoody, GA 30338 Atlanta • 770-394-9499 5555 Peachtree Dunwoody • Ste 125 • Atlanta, GA 30342 Lake Oconee • 706-454-0578 1250 Parkside Commons, Ste. 103 • Greensboro, GA 30642 Milledgeville • 478-452-0578 111 Fieldstone Drive • Ste. 106 • Milledgeville, GA 31061

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a personalized fitting. Each location utilizes state of the art technology and WINNER WINNER family-oriented care to help guide our Atlanta Hearing Associates is dedipatients to the best hearing devices 2024 2023 cated to our mission to make each and information on hearing healthcare. Best Of Best Of patient feel like they are a part of our We also partner with different W INNER Perimeter Perimeter When you take care offamily. your hearing health, you agencies to provide audiological care Dunwoody • Sandy Springs Dunwoody • Sandy Springs Brookhaven Brookhaven Atlanta Associates is a large 2025 Presented By take care of lifeHearing and your overall health.to veterans, ATF officers, reservists, Presented By Best Ofof your quality audiology practice that encompasses police departments, Cochlear implants Perimeter 5 different locations throughout Georrecipients, and community wellness Dunwoody • Sandy Springs gia. Our offices provide comprehensive groups. Brookhaven Presented By hearing tests, tinnitus assessments, We accept all major insurances for ear cleaning, and hearing devices for all patients who have a hearing healthcare ages. benefit that they are eligible to use. Every doctor you will meet is focused Our offices are located in Atlanta, on your needs as a patient and works Decatur, Dunwoody, Lake Oconee, and with every manufacturer to provide Milledgeville.

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Psoriasis Awareness Month

Understanding your triggers and finding the right treatment Brought to you by – Dr. Titilola “Lola” Sode, Epiphany Dermatology August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, an opportunity to increase understanding of a chronic inflammatory condition that affects more than 8 million Americans. While psoriasis is often recognized by its thick, scaly patches of skin, it’s much more than a cosmetic concern. Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease that can impact your overall health, making proper diagnosis and treatment essential. One of the challenges of living with psoriasis is that flare-ups can be unpredictable. While every patient’s experience is different, common triggers include stress, skin injuries such as cuts or sunburns, certain infections, changes in the weather, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and even some medications. Identifying your personal triggers is an important part of managing the condition and reducing the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Because psoriasis can affect more than just the skin—including the joints in some individuals—it is important

to partner with a board-certified dermatologist who can develop a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically to your needs. Whether your psoriasis is mild or more extensive, there are more treatment options available today than ever before. From prescription topical medications and light therapy to advanced oral medications and biologic therapies, we can customize an approach that fits your lifestyle and treatment goals. Living with psoriasis doesn’t have to mean living with constant discomfort or frustration. By understanding your triggers, following a consistent treatment plan, and working closely with your dermatologist, you can achieve better control of your symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you’ve been struggling with persistent patches of dry, itchy, or scaly skin, don’t wait to seek care. This Psoriasis Awareness Month, make your skin health a priority by scheduling an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist and taking the first step toward clearer, healthier skin.

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SCHEDULE N O W! Joanne Jacob, MD • Tiffany Clay-Ramsey, MD • Kehinde Raji Olumesi, MD, MPH, FAAD • Titilola “Lola” Sode, MD

BROOKHAVEN, GA 4360 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd Ste 280 Atlanta, GA 30341

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