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March Special Section

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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Expert Care for Peripheral Artery and Venous Disease at Wellstar Brought to you by – Dr. Bertrand Mukete, Wellstar cardiologist Around 12 million Americans suffer from peripheral vascular disease, according to the American Heart Association. For people experiencing symptoms like painful leg cramps during activity, numbness, cold feet and slow-healing sores, the vascular experts at Wellstar provide comprehensive, tailored care. Here’s what you need to know about the condition—and how to get treated. Peripheral vascular disease Peripheral vascular disease affects blood vessels outside the heart and brain. This condition narrows the arteries and weakens the blood flow to the limbs, resulting in pain or cramping in the legs and arms. It’s called peripheral arterial disease (PAD) when it affects arteries and peripheral venous disease (PVD) when it affects veins, like in the limbs. The peripheral vascular care team at Wellstar helps people improve their symptoms and stop the disorder’s progression. Care teams can include car-

diologists, radiologists, interventional cardiologists and vascular surgeons. We collaborate to provide the right level of personalized care for people with peripheral vascular diseases. Peripheral arterial disease PAD is plaque buildup in the arteries, which limits blood flow to the limbs. Symptoms can include pain or cramps with activity, pain when resting and non-healing ulcers on a cool or pale limb. You can reduce your risk of PAD by quitting smoking, exercising, and managing blood pressure and diabetes. Treatments for PAD include lifestyle modifications, medications and interventions such as balloon angioplasty, plaque or clot extractions, and stent implantation. Dr. Bertrand Mukete

Peripheral venous disease PVD often causes a sense of heavi-

ness or aching, swelling (worse when standing), itching, varicose veins and venous ulcers near the ankle. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, or a blood clot in the lung, include skin discoloration, chest pain or shortness of breath. Risk factors for PVD include smoking, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, age and a family history of premature cardiovascular disease. Treatments for PVD can include compression stockings, ablation, medication or mechanical removal of blood clots. Care for venous thromboembolism The peripheral vascular care team at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, a leading facility in the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE). There are two types of VTE. Deep vein thrombosis is a clot in a deep vein. It usually occurs in the leg, but it can also appear in the arms. A pulmonary embolism occurs when a clot breaks off the vein and travels to the lungs, blocking the blood supply. VTE can cause lifelong disability and can be fatal. Early intervention is crucial. At Wellstar North Fulton, the

heart care team was an early adopter of a groundbreaking treatment for VTE, which uses a catheter to remove the clot. The surgeon inserts the catheter through the groin and navigates it to the clot for treatment. Wellstar North Fulton continues to receive referrals from around the region for this procedure and is one of the highest volume hospitals for VTE care in Metro Atlanta. Previous treatment options included open chest surgery, blood thinners and clot-busting medications. These methods posed a higher risk of complications, especially for patients who have recently undergone another surgical procedure. Because a recent surgery can put a patient at higher risk for VTE, using a catheter to remove the clot is safer for many patients. This treatment method has reduced patients’ hospital stays for VTE from an average of five to seven days to only one or two days. To make an appointment with a Wellstar cardiologist in Roswell, call (770) 410-4520. Call (470) 267-0430 to schedule in Alpharetta.

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A team of advanced heart care specialists means more expertise for you.

At Wellstar, you’ll find more than 100 cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons across our cardiovascular services team who are ready to care for you. Whether you need preventive screenings or treatment for complex heart conditions, your heart is in good hands with our skilled team— highly rated by patients like you. We are leading the way in Georgia and beyond with innovative technology and experienced clinicians to ensure you have the expertise you need close by. Learn how Wellstar can help keep your heart going strong at wellstar.org/northfultonheart. Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care

2450 Old Milton Parkway | ALPHARETTA

(470) 267-0430

4500 Hospital Blvd. | ROSWELL

(770) 410-4520

WELLSTAR CHILDREN’S OF GEORGIA PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY 2450 Old Milton Parkway | ALPHARETTA

(470) 956-9171

GENERAL CARDIOLOGY | ARRHYTHMIAS | INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY | CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY | ADVANCED HEART FAILURE

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Why are my teeth so sensitive? Brought to you by – Atlanta Center for Dental Health Why are my teeth sensitive? What can I do about it? To understand why your teeth are sensitive, it’s important to delve into the underlying causes and factors contributing to this discomfort. Tooth sensitivity, medically known as dentin hypersensitivity, is a common dental problem affecting millions of people worldwide. It manifests as a sharp, sudden pain or discomfort experienced when teeth are exposed to certain stimuli such as cold, hot, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages, as well as during brushing or flossing. The sensation can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact one’s quality of life, if left untreated. There are several potential reasons why your teeth may be sensitive: 1. Exposed Dentin: Dentin is the layer of your tooth beneath the enamel, containing tiny tubules that lead to the nerve center (dental pulp) of the tooth. When the protective enamel layer wears down due to factors such as aggressive brushing, acidic foods, or tooth erosion from conditions such as acid reflux or

bulimia, the dentin becomes exposed. This exposes the nerve endings, leading to sensitivity. 2. Gum Recession: Receding gums, often caused by aggressive brushing, gum disease, or aging, can expose the sensitive roots of the teeth. Unlike enamel, the roots do not have a protective layer making them susceptible to sensitivity. 3. Tooth Decay or Damage: Cavities, cracked teeth, or dental restorations like fillings, crowns, or bridges that are improperly fitted or have deteriorated can leave the inner layers of the tooth vulnerable to sensitivity. 4. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Clenching and Grinding your teeth can be an unconscious habit that you’re not even aware you are doing. Habitual clenching or grinding can wear down your enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity. Additionally, it can cause fractures in the teeth, structurally compromising the tooth or exposing the dentin causing discomfort. 5. Dental procedures: Certain dental procedures such as teeth whitening treatments, professional cleanings, or root planing can temporarily increase

tooth sensitivity. However, this sensitivity usually subsides after a short period. 6. Acidic Foods and Beverages: Consumption of highly acidic foods and beverages can erode tooth enamel over time, leading to sensitivity. Examples include citrus fruits, soda, wine, energy drinks, and certain types of vinegar. 7. Medical Conditions: Conditions such as acid reflux, bulimia, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can expose teeth to stomach acid, leading to enamel erosion and sensitivity. 8. Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting proper oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, and ultimately tooth sensitivity. To alleviate tooth sensitivity and prevent further discomfort, it's essential to address the underlying cause. This may involve using desensitizing toothpaste, practicing proper oral hygiene, avoiding acidic foods, wearing a mouthguard to prevent bruxism, and seeking dental treatment for conditions such as gum disease or tooth decay. Regular dental

check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of any dental issues contributing to sensitivity. By identifying and addressing the root cause of your tooth sensitivity, you can restore comfort and maintain optimal oral health. “Preventive Dentistry can add 10 years to human life." — Dr. Charles Mayo of the Mayo Clinic Dr. Bradley Hepler and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health provide all the modern advances for healthy and attractive smiles. You will realize immediate results with non-invasive and often inexpensive procedures to enhance your smile and your health. If you would like a complementary consultation to discover your smile restoring options, please call the Atlanta Center for Dental Health at 770-992-2236. Dr. Bradley Hepler has spent many hours dedicated to perfecting and updating the latest and best techniques in dentistry. It is with this breadth of knowledge that we provide each patient with the perfect solution to their situation, their life, and their goals. It is our pleasure to serve this community and help as many people as possible live their best life.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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A return to oral medications? Brought to you by – Premier Dermatology From spray sunscreens to creams, ointments, lotions, and foams, dermatologists love the fact that we can often recommend products and treatments that don’t require systemic exposure. When a patient must take a pill or receive an injection, the entire body is exposed, which increases the risk of side effects compared with most topical treatments. Sometimes, however, a pill is exactly the breakthrough treatment we’ve been waiting for. Many people are unaware of the creative and innovative oral treatments now available to treat skin conditions. What follows is a brief overview of some of dermatology’s oral medication trends and highlights. Some of these medicines are “off-label” or are supplements. Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of any of these options with a dermatologist before starting treatment. We start off with “melasma,” a condition in which an individual’s face develops stubborn dark patches. Traditional topical medications like hydroquinone and azelaic acid are often only partially effective. Increasingly, dermatologists are turning to oral tranexamic acid as an option that can be used alongside or instead of topical medications. Tranexamic acid is a medication originally used to decrease bleeding but was later discovered to also reduce pigmentation in the skin. Because of its anti-bleeding properties, it cannot be taken by patients prone to blood clots or those with an increased risk of clotting. For many people suffering from melasma, however, tranexamic acid can be a game changer. For those experiencing hair loss, topical minoxidil (Rogaine®) can be frustrating to use. Once- or twicedaily application of a foam or liquid on the scalp can leave hair greasy and create styling challenges. Oral minoxidil is increasingly used as an alternative and is often very effective. In addition, Nutrafol® supplements are commonly used as an adjunct, particularly for patients seeking a more holistic or natural approach to hair loss treatment. Oral therapies are also gaining attention for preventing skin cancer and reducing sun damage. A form of vitamin B3 called nicotinamide has been shown to reduce rates of certain skin cancers in many patients. Another supplement, polypodium leucotomos (PLE), is

an extract from a tropical fern that reduces sunburns and may help decrease skin cancer development. Its protective effect is modest—likely comparable to an SPF 4 sunscreen for a few hours after ingestion. Therefore, polypodium is intriguing as an addition to traditional sun protection such as sunscreen and protective clothing. Because polypodium acts as an antioxidant and mild sunscreen, it may also help patients with sunsensitivity disorders as well as those with melasma and other disorders of pigmentation. The list of oral medications continues to grow. For patients with chronic hives (urticaria) the new pill remibrutinib inhibits an enzyme called Bruton’s tyrosine kinase, which plays an important role in the release of histamine from mast cells and basophils. Meanwhile, for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and alopecia areata, oral medications that inhibit enzymes known as Janus kinases (so-called “JAK inhibitors”) have proven extremely effective. Although it is not a new medication, isotretinoin—better known as Accutane®—deserves mention in any discussion of state-of-the-art dermatologic treatments. Isotretinoin has been used for decades to treat severe acne, but concerns about potential links to suicidality and other possible side effects have caused some patients and physicians to hesitate before considering it. In 2023, however, a publication that combined the data of twenty-four prior studies for a grand total of 1,625,891 isotretinoin patients found no increased risk of psychiatric disorders. In fact, the study showed that people who had taken isotretinoin were less likely than the general population to attempt suicide two to four years after treatment. Other concerns such as the importance of not becoming pregnant while taking isotretinoin must be discussed before taking this medication. Still, isotretinoin remains an outstanding and often life-changing option for people suffering from acne. For isotretinoin, the pill may not be new, but we continue to receive new and repetitively reassuring safety data. If you or a loved one is dealing with a dermatologic condition—or simply wants to explore treatments to look and feel your best—consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta. Dr. Brent Taylor and Kathryn Filipek, PA-C, are honored to care for patients and families throughout our community.

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

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

2016 - 2018, 2020 - 2022, 2025 WINNER

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Dr. Destinee Hood

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

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

Why your dentist needs the whole story (yes, even that) Brought to you by – By Dr. Destinee Hood at Roswell Dental Care Providing a full and accurate medical history to your dentist is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your oral and overall health. While many patients understand the need to share medical information with their physician, they sometimes underestimate how closely dentistry and general health are connected. Your dentist relies on your medical history to deliver safe, effective, and personalized care. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), oral health is directly linked to systemic health. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and osteoporosis can significantly affect your teeth and gums and vice versa. The plaque on your teeth is the same plaque that can form in your heart to cause a heart attack and the same plaque that can form in your brain and cause a stroke. If your dentist is unaware of your conditions or medical diagnoses, they are missing critical information to provide you with optimal care and education. Another critical reason for providing accurate information is medication safety. Many common medications including blood thinners, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs can impact dental treatment and oral health. Blood thinners, for instance, may increase bleeding during procedures such as extractions or periodontal therapy. Certain medications can also cause dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities and oral infections. If your dentist does not know what you are taking, they cannot adjust treatment plans or recommend preventive measures to protect your oral health. Prgnancy is also important to disclose. Hormonal changes can increase the risk of pregnancy gingivitis, and treatment timing may need to be adjusted. Reducing or elimination risks associated with dental X-rays and medications can be safely managed during pregnancy, but only if your dental team is aware of your condition. Despite these facts, common misconceptions persist. One frequent belief is, “If it’s not related to my teeth, my dentist doesn’t need to know.” This is simply not true. Dentistry involves more than "just teeth." It includes the gums, jaw, oral tissues, and how

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they interact with the rest of your body. It all starts with the mouth. If your mouth is not healthy, there is a good chance another part of you is not healthy either. Another misconception is that “My dentist already has my records, so I don’t need to update anything.” Medical histories should be reviewed and updated regularly because health conditions and medications often change over time. Some patients also hesitate to share information they consider minor, such as controlled high blood pressure or herbal supplement use. However, even supplements like ginkgo biloba or high doses of vitamin E can affect bleeding. Full transparency allows your dentist to anticipate and prevent complications. Ultimately, providing a complete and honest medical history builds trust and strengthens the partnership between you and your dental team. It reduces risks, improves diagnostic accuracy, and supports better long-term outcomes. At Roswell Dental Care, our goal is to provide safe, comprehensive care, and that begins with understanding your total health picture. Taking a few extra minutes to carefully review and update your medical history can make a meaningful difference in protecting both your smile and your overall well-being. Dr. Hood and team give your comfort and trust top priority. We assure you feel confident in any dental solution before beginning treatment. For enhanced comfort, we offer FREE conscious sedation, including nitrous oxide. Rest assured that your experience will be positive, relaxing, and rewarding. Take the first step in feeling great about your smile. Schedule your comprehensive dental exam by calling 770-998-6736 or by going to our website at www.roswelldentalcare.com.

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Your GLP-1, Peptides, or HRT not working like you expected? Brought to you by – OlympusMD Milton Cortisol Could Be the Hidden Saboteur. You’re doing what you’re supposed to do. You started your GLP-1 program. You committed to peptides. Maybe you optimized your hormones. Yet something still feels off. The scale isn’t moving like you expected. You wake up at 3 a.m. and can’t fall back asleep. You feel wired at night but exhausted in the morning. One often-overlooked factor may be cortisol — your body’s primary stress hormone. Cortisol plays an essential role in regulating metabolism, inflammation, blood sugar, and your sleep-wake cycle. In a healthy rhythm, it rises in the morning to energize you and tapers off at night to allow restorative sleep. But chronic stress — whether from work demands, poor sleep, overtraining, under-eating, inflammation, or hormone imbalance — can disrupt that rhythm. When cortisol becomes elevated or dysregulated, symptoms can include: • Night sweats • Difficulty falling or staying asleep • Increased anxiety or irritability • Sugar or carbohydrate cravings • Heart racing at night

• Morning joint stiffness • Hair thinning • Waking up exhausted despite adequate time in bed Elevated cortisol can increase blood sugar, promote abdominal fat storage, impair recovery, and interfere with metabolic efficiency. In that environment, even well-designed GLP-1 programs, peptide protocols, or hormone replacement therapy may not deliver their full potential. This doesn’t mean your treatment has failed. It may simply mean your physiology needs support in a different direction. A comprehensive approach that evaluates stress hormones, sleep quality, inflammation, and metabolic health often uncovers the missing link. When those factors are addressed, patients frequently notice improvements not just in weight management, but in energy, mood, and overall resilience. At OlympusMD Wellness in Milton, we regularly see that meaningful progress happens when the entire hormonal picture is considered — not just one piece of it. Because true optimization isn’t about doing more. It’s about making sure your body isn’t fighting against you.

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

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Jonathan Stegall, MD WINNER 2016

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022

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Holistic/ Alternative Medicine

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Oncology

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

Can stress cause cancer? Brought to you by – Jonathan Stegall, MD Did you know that negative emotions such as stress increase cancer risk substantially? A study published several years ago found that women who experienced a significant, negative life event had an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The breast cancer risk was even greater in women who experienced a severely striking life event. Other studies have

ROI

matters.

shown similar findings regarding stress and cancer risk. We know that stress sets off a cascade of events inside the body involving various hormones and neurotransmitters which affect the health of the body’s cells. Our current understanding is that significant stress, especially over the long term, causes significant damage and dysfunction in the body which can result in cancer. It turns out that the mind isn’t a separate entity

from the body, but rather, in close communication with the body at all times, with tremendous power over how the body functions! The good news is that there are many strategies we can adopt in order to reduce our stress and anxiety. I highly recommend a regular daily practice of prayer and meditation. Exercise, being outside in nature, breathing techniques, and engaging in healthy relationships with others are also proven stress-lowering strategies.

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Understanding Systems Generated Trauma Brought to you by – Janet Fluker, M.Ed., M.S. As a parent of an adult with disabilities and an advocate in the disability community, I try to keep up with the latest research in FLUKER this area. I recently read an article that stopped me in my tracks. Cerebra, a charity organization out of the UK that works with families of children with disabilities, posted their most recent research on Systems Generated Trauma. What is Systems Generated Trauma? “Systems-generated trauma is the harm caused by the policies and practices of the public services that families are forced to navigate. While often unintentional, this harm stems from deep-rooted problems that turn the act of seeking help into an ordeal.” The narrative around the challenges faced by families has often focused on the child’s disability and the parent’s resilience. From the research done in this study parents have shared that the biggest obstacles they face are the systems they must navigate to get the care and support they need for their disabled child. How do these systems create trauma? 1. Different parts of the system work separately and fail to communicate which makes it incredibly difficult for parents to navigate. (I personally spent several hours last week trying to get a question answered about my daughter’s Medicaid. Each part of the system blamed the other for the issue!) 2. Parents are often met with suspicion and made to feel blamed for

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their children’s needs. Their expertise as parents is not honored and their requests are viewed with suspicion or entitlement. 3. The research showed evidence that agencies consistently fail to take action to reduce known harm even when the solutions are simple. Parents encounter a deep-seated reluctance to act and professional indifference. 4. The system focuses on saving money rather than giving the support that families need. This turns applications for support into a combative legal process. The harm caused to families affects their physical and mental health, causes financial hardship, disrupts education for their child and damages family relationships. Some parents reported that the pressure led to suicidal thoughts. There is much work that needs to be done to change the systems within which families are forced to operate to support their child. In the meantime, parents need to be aware

that they are not to blame for many of the difficulties they encounter when they seek help. It is important that parents reach out to others for support as they navigate these systems. Other parents of children with disabilities are the best source of information and ways to “work the system”. There are organizations that will assist parents;

Feel good about your teeth. 2018

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2023

Best Of North Atlanta

Honored as 1st Runner Up Best Dentist 2020

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

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Best Of North Atlanta Honored as 1st Runner Up Best Dentist 2018

Live Your Best Life

The Bobby Dodd Institute has webinars that will educate you Bobby Dodd Institute: Illuminating the Possibilities in Disabilities and FOCUS (Families of Children Under Stress) offers free support groups for parents. Also, individual or family counseling can be a helpful resource as you navigate the pressure of your situation.

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Thank you for voting us Best Audiologist Brought to you by – Atlanta Hearing Associates Atlanta Hearing Associates is dedicated to our mission to make each patient feel like they are a part of our family. Atlanta Hearing Associates is a large audiology practice that encompasses 5 different locations throughout Georgia. Our offices provide comprehensive hearing tests, tinnitus assessments, ear cleaning, and hearing devices for all ages. Every doctor you will meet is focused on your needs as a patient and works with every manufacturer to provide

a personalized fitting. Each location utilizes state of the art technology and family-oriented care to help guide our patients to the best hearing devices and information on hearing healthcare. We also partner with different agencies to provide audiological care to veterans, ATF officers, reservists, police departments, Cochlear implants recipients, and community wellness groups. We accept all major insurances for patients who have a hearing healthcare benefit that they are eligible to use. Our offices are located in Atlanta, Decatur, Dunwoody, Lake Oconee, and Milledgeville.

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Find relief with North Fulton Rheumatology Expert care in Roswell, GA

Brought to you by - North Fulton Rheumatology

Appen Media Group publishes 7 award winning publications, home-delivered, with a combined circulation of 114,000 every week* and is the #1 source for hyper-local news in the areas we serve.

Are joint pain, stiffness, or fatigue holding you back? At North Fulton Rheumatology, we specialize in diagnosing and treating autoimmune and musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis, lupus, gout, and fibromyalgia. Our board-certified rheumatologists provide personalized care designed to reduce pain, restore function, and help you live your best life. Conveniently located in Roswell, Georgia, we offer the latest treatments and advanced medications. For established patients, we also provide telemedicine visits, allowing you to connect with your doctor from the comfort of your home. At North Fulton Rheumatology, we

focus on compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to your unique needs. Don’t let joint discomfort slow you down—take the first step toward feeling better today. Call 770-619-0004 | Visit www. northfultonrheumatology.com North Fulton Rheumatology – Where Your Mobility Matters

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North NorthFulton FultonRheumatology Rheumatologydiagnoses diagnoses and treats patients and treats patientssuffering suffering from fromvarious various types typesofofarthritis arthritisand andother otherautoimmune autoimmune ororconnective are connectivetissue tissue disorders. disorders. We are committed to providing comprehensive committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate use the thehighest, highest, compassionatecare, care, and and we use most progressive medical standards. most progressive medical Our board-certified physician, Dr. Ciela Our board-certified physician, Dr. Ciela Lopez-Armstrong, and board certified Lopez-Armstrong, and certified family nurse nurse practitioner, Maria Betancur, AG-ACNP practitioner, Heather Grafton, DNP, FNP-C, are qualified to manage all autoimmune are qualified to manage all autoimmune and and connective tissue diseases, including: connective tissue diseases, including:

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1300 Upper Road, Building 100,Roswell, Suite A, Roswell, GA 30076 11685Hembree Alpharetta Hwy, Suite 170, GA 30076 Monday- Thursday, - Thursday,99a.m. a.m.- -55p.m., p.m.,Closed Closed on Monday on Fridays Fridays 770-619-0004 | F: 770-619-0252 770-619-0252 P:P:770-619-0004 | F: northfultonrheumatology.com northfultonrheumatology.com

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Importance of skin checks for mature skin Brought to you by – Dr. Kehinde Olumesi of Epiphany Dermatology - Brookhaven As skin matures, it undergoes various changes that necessitate regular skin checks to ensure overall skin health. Differentiating between age spots, healthy moles and potential skin cancers is crucial. Age spots, often appearing as flat, brown, or black spots on sun-exposed areas, are generally harmless but can be mistaken for more serious conditions. Early detection of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Therefore, routine skin examinations are essential for mature skin to maintain health and catch any issues early. Addressing skin conditions and rejuvenation procedures Dermatologists can assist with a variety of skin conditions and rejuvenation procedures for mature skin. Common issues such as dryness, age-related pigmentation and conditions like rosacea, psoriasis and eczema, which can persist or develop with age, are also addressed with specialized care plans. In addition to treating conditions, dermatologists offer rejuvenating procedures to enhance the appearance and health of mature skin. Treatments such as chemical peels, laser rejuvenation and injectable treatments like BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin texture and promote collagen production. These procedures not only rejuvenate the skin but also boost confidence and overall well-being. Establishing a relationship with a dermatologist ensures that your skin receives comprehensive care tailored to its evolving needs, promoting long-term skin health and vitality.

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Insurance DME vs. PrivatePay HME: What to know Brought to you by – Mobility Plus Alpharetta After a hospital stay, in-home equipment can aid recovery. How do you leverage your insurance benefits? How do you know what is and isn’t covered? Definitions: Medical equipment provided through insurance companies is referred to as DME (Durable Medical Equipment). Items provided through a local, private-pay dealer are referred to as HME (Home Medical Equipment). Hospital beds: Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance plans cover a semi-electric bed. This means that the head and foot portions are electric and operated by remote control, but that the deck (the part on which the mattress rests) is controlled with a hand crank. You will want to assess the ability of the caregiver to effectively grasp the crank and operate it multiple times a day to lift the bed deck up and down. Basic beds have limited clinical features, and typically have a max lifting height of 24” and a max lowering range of 10”15” from the floor. This is an important consideration if your loved one is under 5’5” as their feet may not touch the floor when the bed is in the lowest position. Additionally, consider whether the longer timeline that insurance companies require fits your needs. HME beds are almost always fully electric. Features such as Trendelenburg (tilts the bed on a flat plane to position feet above the heart) or Reverse Trendelenburg (tilts the opposite way to position feet below the heart) can aid in lymphatic drainage, blood circulation, and re-positioning. These advanced beds can go as high as 39” and as low as 3” from the floor. This wide range of lifting heights can significantly reduce caregiver strain and mitigate fall risk for

more petite users. Local dealers usually try to work with a very short timeline when possible! Mobility equipment: Medicare and Medicaid provide both powered mobility devices such as scooters and power wheelchairs, along with manual mobility equipment like wheelchairs and transport chairs. Typically, items provided through insurance are meant to be used in the home and as a result they are not lightweight and transportable. If taking your mobility scooter, power wheelchair, or manual wheelchair in the car, on errands, or visiting family is a priority then you might consider comparing lightweight HME options. Excluded items: Medicare and Medicaid exclude stair lifts, lift recliners (insurance will often reimburse about $150-$300 for the lift motor, however), transport chairs (a type of folding, lightweight wheelchair w/four small wheels), vehicle lifts, shower chairs or wheelchair ramp systems. Research your plan to confirm these exclusions. Prescriptions: Georgia allows for a sales tax exemption when a prescription is provided at the point of purchase for a Class II medical device. Your local dealer can explain the GA State Pharmacy Board regulations. Service and repair: Explicitly ask who handles service and repair before your purchase. Being an authorized dealer ensures that your repair technician is knowledgeable, credible, and able to source original parts when necessary. At Mobility Plus Alpharetta, we are authorized dealers for 26 different suppliers. We maintain training certifications required by both the state of Georgia, and our suppliers, and we repair everything that we sell!

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