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Thibodaux Pediatric Day Health Care (PDHC) is dedicated to providing skilled nursing care to children in a daycare style setting. Children ages birth to 21 years of age that require frequent nursing interventions including seizure monitoring, diabetic and/or blood sugar monitoring, gastronomy tube feeds, tracheotomy suctioning and care, oxygen administration, children requiring frequent medications throughout the day or monitoring of heart conditions are examples of children who may qualify for care in Thibodaux PDHC’s licensed center. The center is staffed with highly skilled nurses and nurses’ aids who have extensive pediatric experience. The care each child receives is based on doctor’s orders and each child’s customized Plan of Care. This highly individualized Plan of Care is created by the child’s care team including their Pediatrician, specialists and the center’s Nursing Director.
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Physical, occupational and speech therapies are provided onsite to each child as their care plan and physical condition dictates. In addition, nutrition or social worker consults can be arranged. Music therapy and an age and development based curriculum are also provided, as well as occasional field trips. The center is open from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday, and transportation is available within a 30 mile radius of the facility. There are currently openings in all age groups. All of the Medicaid and Bayou Health Plans are accepted as well as some private insurances. For more information or to see if your child may qualify, please call Sabrina Falgoust at 985-446-1541 or email questions to thibodauxpdhc@att.net.
Experience Fitness Made For You Thibodaux Regional Medical Center’s new 242,000 square foot Wellness Center is set to open this fall. Every resource needed to enjoy a healthy lifestyle has been included under one roof. The Center is comprised of several individual specialty health centers, including a state-of-the-art Fitness Center that will rival anything found in posh hotels and spas. According to Chrisy Myhand, Director of Wellness Services, the facility is going to have a fabulous spa-like atmosphere: very spacious locker rooms, saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs for men and women. There will also be on-site laundry service to always provide fresh towels, similar to what you may experience in a nice hotel spa. The new Fitness Center is much more than just luxurious accommodations and swanky amenities though. It’s a facility equipped with all the necessary tools to enable anyone,
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regardless of fitness level, to reach their personal goals and optimal level of health.
Fitness Made Personal
The first step for clients - an assessment to establish a baseline for where they are physically. This evaluation is an important step in creating a personalized map to take
into account all of an individual’s needs. It’s not a one-size-fits-all plan. “The initial assessment will give our Fitness Center staff a score that we can compare to accepted industry benchmarks,” Myhand explained. “Then we’ll use that information to tailor a fitness plan specifically for you to address your needs and goals.”
Integrating Your Medical Needs
If you’re a diabetic, a heart attack survivor or battling cancer, we can work with your doctor to custom-fit a plan to address your needs, in any regard, including clinical conditions. Physicians are an integral part of this process. This type of custom attention not only equates to better overall health outcomes, but it also takes safety to the next level, since the exercise plan will account for all medical conditions. Participants can then put the prescribed workout plan into action on the most advanced machines available in the fitness industry.
Regional CEO Greg Stock said. “Thibodaux Regional is one of the best hospitals in the nation when it comes to low infection rates, and we’re carrying that commitment and philosophy over into the Wellness Center. There will be someone constantly wiping down the equipment. It’s a small thing, but it’s actually a big thing.” Thibodaux Regional Medical Center’s Fitness Center membership is open to the public. The Center is currently accepting membership applications. For more information visit www.fitnesscenterofthibodauxregional. com or call 985.493.4950.
FITNESS CENTER AMENITIES ....................................................
Outstanding Facilities and Amenities
“The equipment and technology in the Fitness Center is very sophisticated,” Myhand said. “Personal trainers who have earned at least a bachelor’s degree will be available on the Fitness Center floor at all times to help instruct people or answer any questions they might have about the equipment. That’s not a standard feature at most gyms, but it’s a commitment to excellence that we feel is very important. We’re trying to infuse a lot of knowledge to the participants.” Members will also be able to enjoy three specialized pools, all designed to meet virtually any medical or athletic need. Swimming is a beneficial form of cardiovascular exercise and is an effective method for those wanting to reduce wear-and-tear on their bodies. Childcare can often be a deterrent for many young families when it comes to carving time out of a busy schedule. Thibodaux Regional’s new Fitness Center recognizes that obstacle and provides a solution. “For two hours, you can come in and have a great workout, while someone watches your children,” Myhand said. “It’s not any ordinary childcare though. This will be an enriched childcare experience. You’ll see it’s very nice and will stimulate the children’s minds for the time that they’re with us.”
Commitment to Cleanliness
Cleanliness is a top priority within the new Fitness Center, as it is throughout all of Thibodaux Regional Medical Center’s facilities. “Cleanliness is a top priority when it comes to both the Fitness Center equipment and the water-based amenities, such as the pools and hot tubs,” Thibodaux
• State-of-the-art Cardio Equipment with Personal Viewing Screens
• State-of-the-art Fitness Equipment
• Indoor Jogging/Walking Track
• Olympic Size Swimming Pool
• Warm Water Therapy Pool
• Gymnasium
• Cycling Studio
• Mind Body Studio
• Group Exercise Studio
• Group Exercise Pool
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By Sharon Armstrong
Premier Surgeon
As one of New Orleans’ premier plastic surgeons, it goes without saying that Dr. Kamran Khoobehi is a very busy man. As well as offering top-of-the-line cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery services here in the Crescent City for almost two decades, Dr. Khoobehi is the Director of Aesthetic Surgery Training at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, one of the few surgeons in the region to perform DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap breast reconstruction, and a pioneer in fat grafting and aesthetic surgery. An active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Khoobehi made history during an eyelid reattachment at the LSU Health Sciences Center in 2004 by becoming the first surgeon in the world to successfully reattach the myriad network of tiny blood vessels in his patient’s “replanted” eyelid, which had been bitten off during a dog attack. His surgical skills not only helped to save the 22-year old’s sight but also rendered the signs of the trauma imperceptible.
Seeking Perfection
But then, said Dr. Khoobehi, when it comes to plastic surgery, perfection has always been and always will be his goal. To help patients reach their goals, as well as offering all the classic cosmetic procedures such as facelifts, tummy tucks, skin contouring, rhinoplasty and an extensive variety of breast augmentation and reconstructive procedures, Khoobehi & Associates Plastic Surgery also offers its patients the very latest in non-invasive procedures such as CoolSculpting, Thermiva, fillers, skin resurfacing, Ultherapy and BOTOX.
Transforming Lives
One of the first things you notice when meeting Dr. Khoobehi is his air of quiet authority and his passion for all the different aspects of his chosen field. “You can transform lives with plastic surgery,” said Dr. Khoobehi. “The goal is not to make everyone look the same, but simple procedures can change how people feel about themselves. While plastic surgery may not be for everyone - and that is alright - it can help people who feel self-conscious, and who may even avoid social situations because of that self-consciousness, to live happier lives.”
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Dr. Kamran Khoobehi
Empowerment
As a graduate of St. Louis University and LSU New Orleans, Dr. Khoobehi opened his first office at Lakeside Hospital in 1997. He and his wife of 32 years, Jila Khoobehi, ran it as a two-person team. Since those fledgling days, Khoobehi & Associates Plastic Surgery has grown considerably. It now has 15 employees and currently operates out of three offices, with two established locations in the Greater New Orleans Metro area - 3901 Veterans Blvd in Metairie and 4500 Magazine Street in Uptown New Orleans– and a brand new office out on the West Coast at 465 N Roxbury Drive #1001, Beverly Hills. All facilities offer in-house procedures, and potential patients can schedule complimentary personal consultations at all three locations. “One thing I really believe in is empowering the patient,” said Dr. Khoobehi. “I believe in making them more involved in decisions and educating and informing them to enhance their whole experience.”
Glimpse of the Future
One way that Khoobehi & Associates both empowers and educates its patients is by offering them the chance to preview potential results before undergoing any procedure by utilizing the VECTRA 3D imaging system during consultations. VECTRA uses multiple cameras to capture ultra-high resolution 3D images of the face and body, which patients can then use to compare and contrast things like different breast shapes or sizes or decide on breast elevation and cleavage. VECTRA can also be used to preview the potential results of rhinoplasties and facelifts. This not only helps patients make informed decisions when it comes to planning their new look, but helps them make those decisions optimal ones. “All patients are different,” said Dr. Khoobehi. “One of the biggest issues for breast enhancement is size, because what might work well on one person might not work well on another – their anatomy might be totally different. Technologies like VECTRA remove the guesswork and help manage expectations.”
Crisalix Visions
Another imaging technology that helps to take the guesswork out of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures offered by Khoobehi & Associates is the Crisalix 3D Breast Augmentation Simulator, an
Internet-based software that, in conjunction with Crisalix 3D oculus glasses, can allow patients to view their potential future selves.
Due Diligence
According to Dr. Khoobehi, as new technologies are developed, old technologies are made obsolete. Part of his work, he explained, is to stay abreast of these changes. “Part of my job is to evaluate new procedures, to constantly do due diligence when it comes to my patients’ well-being, and keep up-to-date with new techniques and scientific breakthroughs,” he explained.
DIEP Flap Surgery
One relatively new procedure that has revolutionized breast reconstruction is DIEP flap surgery, in which blood vessels (known as deep inferior epigastric perforators), along with the connected skin and fat, are removed from the lower abdomen and used to reconstruct breasts post-mastectomy. Another revolutionary procedure is autologous fat grafting - an innovative technique that Dr. Khoobehi pioneered - in which fat is harvested from other areas of the patient’s body and used to cosmetically enhance implants and augment the patients’ natural and reconstructed breasts. The beauty of this technique, apart from negating or minimizing the possibility of tissue rejection, is that it gives a smoother and more natural look, according to Dr. Khoobehi. “We use multiple techniques to ensure the best aesthetic results,” said Dr. Khoobehi. “It is an art.”
Leading the Field
An acknowledged authority and leader in the field of autologous fat grafting, Dr. Khoobehi is a much sought-after speaker. This September he is invited to Los Angeles by The American Society of Plastic Surgeons to serve as Faculty for an instructional course at Plastic Surgery 2016, an event held in cooperation with the Plastic Surgery Foundation (PSF) and the American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons (ASMS). On Oct. 7, 2016, coinciding with Breast Awareness Month, New Orleanians will have the chance to attend a free symposium which will be held by Khoobehi & Associates at 6 p.m. at the Hilton Riverside, followed by the opportunity to enjoy a one-on-one consultation.
Natural Trends
According to a survey by The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, plastic surgery is more acceptable in American society. However, according to various studies, the modern taste in plastic surgery is also trending toward a more natural look. “Most people want to look better but not look as if they have had work done,” said Dr. Khoobehi. “The trend is toward smaller implants - not over-exaggerated. What I try to do is be comprehensive; I look at my patients as a whole. There are also ethical issues. During consultations, I ask myself what I would do if that patient was my daughter, my sister or my wife. If I wouldn’t offer it to my family, I won’t offer it to my patients.”
Leading Medical Innovation
This personal touch is something that is very important at Khoobehi & Associates, according to associate Dr. Jules A. Walters, III. A native of New Orleans, Dr. Walters joined Khoobehi & Associates in 2014 after training at the Texas Medical Center, the largest such facility in the world. During his time at the MD Anderson Cancer Center, he said, he found himself drawn to the reconstructive aspects of breast cancer patients’ ongoing treatment and recovery. “Cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery is a very rewarding specialty because it allows opportunities to operate head to toe,” said Dr. Walters. “And getting world-class training and bringing that training back to
Dr. Jules A. Walters, III New Orleans was really a dream come true.” According to Dr. Walters, in many ways plastic surgery drives medical innovation from “advances in microvascular surgery to advancement in fat grafting.” “You see plastic surgeons leading things like face transplant teams and hand transplant teams,” said Dr. Walters. “I think we, as plastic surgeons, lead a lot of the innovative technical techniques in today’s medical fields. New Orleans is known for breast reconstruction, so a lot of the techniques I learned in Texas were developed in New Orleans. At Khoobehi & Associates, we just take those techniques to the next level. Our clinic makes people happy.”
Patient Satisfaction
One such happy patient is fifty-year-old Connie Reso, who has been a client at Khoobehi & Associates for the past six years. Effervescent in her enthusiasm about diet and personal wellness, Reso’s first breast procedure took place in 2004 after the birth of her son, at another facility. “Afterwards I would have these weird little pains in my breasts,” said Reso. “One of them was higher than the other, and I was just very unhappy.” In 2014, Khoobehi & Associates replaced her old saline implants for gel implants. It was amazing, she said, how different her breasts felt afterwards. “They were smooth, they didn’t feel heavy, and I didn’t have any pain,” she said. “Dr. Khoobehi is not just a perfectionist, he is sympathetic, knowledgeable and takes time to explain things to you. Thank God there are people like him out there.” Since then Reso has had a tummy-tuck, a facelift and a neck lift. She is delighted with the results. “What sets Dr. Khoobehi apart is that he would rather lose business than perform an unnecessary procedure,” said Reso. “If he feels that a particular surgery is not in your best interests, or that you are not ready for a particular procedure, he will say no. That is one of the reasons that I would trust the doctors at Khoobehi & Associates with my life.” More information about Khoobehi & Associates is available at https://khoobehi.com/.
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By: DR. CATHERINE DIEBOLD Fall will soon be here. We are all looking forward to cooler weather and more opportunities to be active and get outdoors. Fall also brings National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The month of October is dedicated to increasing breast cancer awareness in women and hopefully to inspiring women to be proactive and get their mammograms. Breast cancer is diagnosed in 1 in 8 women in the United States. It is the second most common cancer in women. The good news is that the combination of a yearly breast exam by your doctor/gynecologist and a mammogram – an x-ray screening test for breast cancer – can help find breast cancer at an early stage. That means it’s easier to treat and survive the disease!
What are the risk factors for breast cancer?
Family history: Only 15% of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have a first degree relative with the disease. A woman’s risk for breast cancer increases if her mother/sister/ daughter has breast cancer. One relative doubles the risk, while two relatives would triple the risk. A father or brother with breast cancer may also increase risk-but in an uncertain fashion. Genetic risk factors: Most women do not have a genetic mutation or hereditary type of breast cancer. Only 5-10% of breast cancers are thought to involve the most common genetic mutations of BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women with a strong family history of breast cancer, especially in women younger than age 50, a blood test can be done to check for these mutations.
Science has identified certain factors which can increase a woman’s risk for breast cancer. If a person has one or more risk factors, however, it doesn’t mean she will get the disease. Some factors are linked to lifestyle and can be changed others, however, are not.
Dense breast tissue: When women are younger, they may have more glandular tissue and less fatty tissue in the breast. This shows up as “dense breasts” on mammograms. Dense breast tissue can make it harder to see developing cancers on a mammogram, thus a woman’s risk increases 1.2-2 times compared to someone with average breast density.
Non – lifestyle risk factors (Not Changeable)
Personal history of breast cancer: Once a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, her chances are increased of developing a new cancer in the same or opposite breast.
Gender: Females get breast cancer 100 times more often than men.
Menstrual periods: An early menarche (1st period before age 12) and a late menopause (last period after age 55) increases a woman’s risk for breast cancer. This may be due to a longer natural period of hormone exposure.
Age: As a woman gets older- her risk increases. Only 7% of breast cancers occur in women under age 40. Most are found in women older than age 55. Race and ethnicity: Breast cancer is more common in white women. African-American have a lower risk of disease compared to white women, but an increased risk of dying from
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the disease. Asian, Hispanic and Native-American women have a lower risk of breast cancer.
Childbearing: Later childbearing (after age 30) or not having children at all increases a woman’s risk. Having many children at younger ages may decrease a woman’s risk.
Lifestyle-related factors (Changeable)
What can you do about it?
Drinking alcohol: Having more than 1 drink daily may increase risk by 1.5 times compared to nondrinkers or having only 1 drink a day.
Have a yearly breast/wellness exam by your doctor, and schedule yearly mammograms after age forty to help detect problems at an early phase and optimize survival. At that visit, your doctor can review your personal risk factors. If you are at an increased risk, a plan can be devised for additional testing or even modifying one’s lifestyle and adding medications that may be able to reduce your risk. Self-breast examination can also be discussed and explained.
Overweight or obesity: When a person is overweight or obese, they have an increased percent body fat. Fat cells have enzyme factories, which can convert other hormones in the post-menopausal body into estrogen, leading to a hormonal imbalance. Also, overweight and obese women typically have higher insulin levels due to the dietary choices being made. Both of these elevated hormones have been linked to an increased risk for breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Physical activity: Studies have revealed that a minimum of 30 min of walking 5 days a week may decrease risk for breast cancer. Smoking, high fat diets and toxins In the environments may also contribute to increasing breast cancer risk. Based on other cancer risk studies, it is a good idea to avoid these risk factors as well. Hormones and Birth Control Pills: Studies have varied the risk based on the type and length of use of these medications. The best idea is to discuss these medications with your doctor.
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a
chance to make a difference in your loved one’s life! Start a conversation with your mother/sisters/aunts/grandmothers/ friends/neighbors and colleagues about mammograms and yearly breast exams. Let’s all work together to increase breast cancer awareness and increase the opportunity for early survival!
Dr. Catherine Diebold is a board certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist. She is also certified in Age Management Medicine by Cenegenics and AMMG. She has an office in Thibodaux, LA. To make an appointment, please call 985-448-1216.
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Dentistry Today - Beyond Teeth By: Pedro J. Cuartas, DDS
What would you say if you were asked a question like, “what do dentists treat?” Well, if you are like most, you would probably say “teeth”, and you would not be wrong. However, that answer falls very short from being a complete description. Today’s dentistry is more comprehensive and can play a significant role in a person’s overall health. General dentistry encompasses diagnoses and treatments ranging from tooth decay and gum disease to cosmetic smile design and facial enhancement, to sleep apnea and migraine headaches. While most people go see their dentist to prevent or treat cavities and gum disease, there are many more services a dentist can provide. Cosmetic smile design, for instance, can have a significant impact on a person’s emotional health. The benefits from the increased confidence and self esteem resulting from someone being able to smile and express themselves without reservation or embarrassment are tremendous. Dentists have the capability to enhance someone’s smile and facial characteristics through a broad range of treatment options including teeth whitening, orthodontics (braces/
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invisalign), tooth replacement, and even lip augmentation and reduction of deep wrinkles around the mouth with various dermal fillers such as Juvederm. There are many instances where a combination of these treatments are performed for a comprehensive enhancement of not only a person’s smile, but also their self-esteem. As cosmetic smile design may impact someone’s emotional health, dentistry may also improve your physical health. Obstructive sleep apnea is a common condition affecting much of the population. Sleep apnea has been linked to cardiovascular disease and has resulted in motor vehicle accidents because of drivers falling asleep at the wheel. A CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine is usually prescribed for the treatment of sleep apnea, and while a good option, many people have a difficult time sleeping with this face mask. If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea by your physician, a dentist can provide an FDA approved alternative. A custom made, comfortable orthotic device to advance the lower jaw and open the airway can be easily designed and fabricated. The custom made device is easy to travel with and usually does not require any special maintenance. Successfully treating obstructive sleep apnea may
enhance cardiac and physical health. Another health related issue is that of migraine headaches and tension headaches. For many people these headaches get so intense that they interfere with daily activities. Many people live with this pain daily and may try different treatments without much improvement. When the cause of the migraine or headache is muscular, dentists can help provide relief. There are two ways dentists can successfully treat headaches. One is by making a special orthotic mouth piece that is designed to minimize muscular contraction when clenching, especially at night. The other treatment option used by dentists is the application of Botox. The Botox is easily administered into the muscles used for biting and clenching, across the forehead and even to the occipital muscles behind the head. Botox causes these muscles to relax and not over work resulting in a reduction of the frequency and intensity of headaches. Either the use of the mouth piece or the Botox treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for people suffering with chronic migraine and tension headaches. Today’s dentistry offers so much more to patients than ever before with a vast array of services geared to help improve people’s health, emotional and physical. So, if someone ever asks you, “what do dentists treat?”, hopefully you can say that dentistry today, goes well beyond teeth.
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Debunking Common Eye Myths Old Wives’ Tales and other myths have always existed when it comes to medical advice or theories. Some of them have some truth to them, and some of them are just downright farfetched. We at Advanced Eye Institute rounded up some of the most common beliefs and misbeliefs about the eyes. Read on and see how many of these you’ve heard and/or believed.
ABOUT CHILDREN’S EYES “Crossing your eyes will make them stay that way.” The truth is: Crossing your eyes will not cause them to remain that way. “Getting too close to the television will hurt your eyes or holding a book too close will harm your eyes.” The truth is: Sitting close to the television or holding reading material very close will not harm your eyes. Children can focus at close distances much better than adults can. Sometimes however, sitting close to the television can be an indication of nearsightedness, and an eye exam may be a good idea. “Children will outgrow crossed eyes, or a ‘lazy eye’.” The truth is: Children do not outgrow truly crossed eyes. A child whose eyes are misaligned can develop poor vision in one eye (a condition known as amblyopia) because the brain turns off connections to the misaligned or “lazy” eye. The sooner crossed or misaligned eyes are treated, the less likely the child will have permanently impaired vision.
ABOUT GLASSES AND CONTACTS “Having 20/20 vision means that your eyes are perfect.” The truth is: The term “20/20” means a person has excellent central vision. However, other types of vision, such as side vision, night vision or color vision, might be imperfect. Some potentially blinding eye diseases can take years to develop. During this time, they are harming parts of the inner eye, but the central vision can remain unaffected. Additionally, some people have better than 20/20 vision!
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“It will hurt your eyes to wear someone else’s glasses, or the wrong prescription.” The truth is: You may not see well or you may get an eyestrain headache when you wear the wrong prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses, but they will not harm your eyes. Eyeglasses give you clear vision, but they do not physically change your eyes. The worst thing that can happen from a wrong prescription is blurry vision, which causes discomfort but won’t result in lasting damage. “Wearing prescription glasses makes you dependent on them.” The truth is: Some may think that wearing eyeglasses makes their eyes dependent on glasses, causing their vision to deteriorate quicker. But eyeglasses don’t change your eyes - they simply correct blurred vision. Since clear vision with eyeglasses is preferable to uncorrected vision, you may find that you want to wear your eyeglasses more often. Although it may feel as if you are becoming dependent on your eyeglasses, you are actually just getting used to seeing clearly. “You can sleep in your contact lenses.” The truth is: It is never a good idea to sleep in your contacts, especially for long periods of time. Unless you have been told specifically by your eye doctor that you can sleep in your contact lenses, you should avoid this. Your eyes need to breathe while wearing contact lenses, and this is more difficult when your eyes are closed. When you are sleeping and not blinking, your contact lenses will not move on your eyes as when you are awake. This can put you at a higher risk of infection, if you sleep in contact lenses. Always follow the guidelines given to you by your eye doctor. “It’s okay to swim in soft contact lenses.” The truth is: swimming, opening our eyes underwater or using a hot tub in soft contact lenses can result in a potentially blinding eye infection.
ABOUT ADULT’S EYES “I would know if I had an eye disease.” The truth is: Many eye diseases have no symptoms until much too late. For example, most people who develop glaucoma do not experience any symptoms in the early stages of the disease. They only begin to notice the symptoms in the later stages, and by that point, they have already lost part of their vision that they can’t get back. Diabetic eye disease, another potentially blinding condition, also can become quite severe before symptoms of the disease are noticed. Early signs of age related macular degeneration can sometimes be seen on an exam before the patient has any vision complaints. “You only need an eye exam if you’re having trouble seeing or as you enter your 40s & 50s.” The truth is: there are several eye diseases (such as glaucoma), that can begin prior to age 40. These diseases often have no early symptoms, yet are often treatable if caught in the early stages. The best option is to have regular comprehensive eye exams every few years as you enter your adult years. “Using your eyes too much will ‘wear them out’.” The truth is: You cannot wear your eyes out by using them. Your vision may change as your eyes age or because of disease, but you will not wear your eyes out by simply using them. “Using a computer is harmful to the eyes.” The truth is: Although computer usage is associated with fatigue or eyestrain, it is not harmful to the eyes.
ABOUT MEDICAL ISSUES “You should put raw steak on a black eye.” The truth is: That’s gross. For some reason, television perpetuated the raw steak idea, probably because meat is cold and malleable, making it easier to conform to the eye socket. Another theory of the origin of this myth was that in the days when an icebox was truly a frozen block of ice in a box, the meat could’ve been used as an ice-substitute, as ice was valuable and was harder to come by. The truth is raw meat harbors bacteria and can cause infection.
vitamin A deficiency - otherwise, it would cause no noticeable change. However, including carrots, along with fruits and leafy greens can help protect your eyes from cataracts, macular degeneration, and other vision problems. “‘Pink eye’ is contagious until you get the ‘drops’.” The truth is: Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, can be caused by a virus, an allergy or bacteria. Antibiotic ointments or eye drops work to clear up pink eye only if it is caused by bacteria. The most common cause of pink eye is a virus, and antibiotics are not usually necessary for pink eye. Viral pink eye has to run its course, and usually goes away on it’s on in 7-10 days. Antibiotics don’t kill viruses. Pink eye can also be an allergic reaction to something like pollen, dust mites, pets, contact lenses or cosmetics. This kind of pink eye gets better when you avoid the things that are causing the allergy. Antibiotics don’t help allergies. Pink eye caused by bacteria may require an antibiotic. However, mild bacterial forms of pink eye almost always go away within 10 days. “Headaches are caused by eye problems.” The truth is: Eyestrain headaches can be caused by uncorrected need for glasses, but most headaches are not caused by the eyes. Generally, other causes of headaches should be ruled out such as sinusitis, stress, posture, food sensitivities and of course more serious causes which would require medical testing by your primary doctor. If you suspect your eyes are the cause of your headaches, a comprehensive eye exam is recommended. “My eyes water all the time. They can’t be dry!” The truth is: Dry eyes have many symptoms, and believe it or not, tearing or watering eyes is one of them. When eyes dry out, they become irritated and uncomfortable. That prompts the lacrimal glands to produce so many tears that they overwhelm the eye’s natural drainage system. In addition to excessive tearing, symptoms of dry eye syndrome may include blurred vision, itchy eyes or burning eyes. If you have eyes that water, dry eyes may be the cause. An eye exam is needed to check for dry eyes or other causes of tearing.
In modern times (and the non-television world) a frozen bag of vegetables, a moldable cold pack or even ice wrapped in a towel are all the recommended cold therapies for swelling and bruising that accompany a black eye. A visit to the eye doctor to rule out any further or unseen trauma is also recommended.
“There’s nothing that can be done for Macular Degeneration.” The truth is: While there is no cure for age related macular degeneration (or AMD), there are preventative measures and treatments that can be done, depending on what type of AMD is present. There are two forms of AMD – dry and wet.
“Eyes can be transplanted.” The truth is: The eye cannot be transplanted. It is connected to the brain by the optic nerve, which cannot be reconnected once it has been severed. The cornea, however, which is the clear front part of the eye, can be transplanted. Surgeons also often use plastic intraocular lens implants (IOLs) to replace natural lenses removed during cataract surgery.
The wet form of AMD causes leakage in the tissues of the macula (the center of the vision), which in turn causes dense scarring and progressive vision loss. Currently the wet form of AMD can be treated with medications called anti-VEGF inhibitors. This treatment can often prevent AMD from progressing and even reverse some of the “leakage”. While the goal of the medication is to prevent further loss, many patients even regain some of the prior vision loss.
“Eating carrots improve your sight.” The truth is: While carrots do contain lots of vitamin A (an important nutrient for your eyes), they are unlikely to make a noticeable improvement in your eyesight. Eating lots of carrots only would improve your sight if you suffered from
The progression of dry AMD has been shown in studies to be slowed down by taking high antioxidant vitamins, namely a specific formula called the AREDS 2 formula. AREDS 2 stands Article continued on page 18.
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for “Age Related Eye Disease Study #2”, and that study found that while the vitamins did not reverse or prevent AMD, it did slow it’s progression of the disease, and it also decreased the frequency that dry AMD converted to wet AMD. It is not currently recommended for patients to take AREDS 2 vitamins unless they have already been given a diagnosis of AMD. The vitamins cannot prevent AMD from occurring. However, there are preventative measures you can take to reduce the risk of developing AMD, and these include a healthy diet high in green leafy vegetables and fruits, the use of polarized sunglasses and having a smoke-free lifestyle. “I see my family doctor for diabetes and high blood pressure; I don’t need to see an eye doctor also.” Many diseases can harm the eyes, and while your primary doctor may perform a quick screening of your eyes in his or her office, your eye doctor has specialized equipment which can perform a comprehensive examination and detect early signs of damage from many systemic diseases. There are many times your eye doctor can find the signs of damage from high blood pressure even before being diagnosed, and these findings lead to the blood pressure being treated.
ABOUT CATARACTS “Cataracts must be “ripe” before being removed.” The truth is: Back when cataract surgery was very risky, it was recommended to wait as long as possible to have them removed. In current times, cataract surgery is one of the safest surgeries performed in the United States, so cataract surgery can be performed when your eyesight has decreased enough to interfere with your lifestyle. This varies from person to person depending on your preferred recreational activities, work and day-to-day activities. “You can see a cataract.” (or Cataracts “grow” on top of the eye) The truth is: Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s lens, and that lens is inside the eye, behind the iris and the pupil. “Cataracts are removed with a laser.” The truth is: Along with the misconception that cataracts grow on the surface of the eye, many people believe they can be removed with lasers. However, this is not the case because the clouding develops within the actual properties of the lens. In cataract surgery, your natural lens is broken up and removed with an instrument called a phaco probe. The natural lens is then replaced with an artificial lens within the eye called an IOL. There is modern technology, however, that does use what’s called a femtosecond laser to make cataract surgery safer and more precise. The laser can perform certain aspects of the surgery that were once done by hand, and the laser can also help treat minor amounts of astigmatism, helping to reduce the amount of refractive error (glasses prescription) left after surgery. Lasers are also sometimes used after cataract surgery to treat any scar tissue that may develop on the lens implant placed during surgery. “Cataracts can be dissolved with eye drops.” The truth is: A cataract is not a substance that can be wiped away or dissolved, and the FDA has not approved any medication that can do so. Some companies may claim their products can dissolve cataracts, but this is not true. At this time, surgery is the treatment for cataracts. “You need thick glasses after cataract surgery.” The truth is: A long time ago, when the cataract was removed, the eye was left without a lens, causing the thick coke-bottle bottom looking glasses people received following surgery. For the past 40-50 years, Ophthalmologists have been inserting an intraocular lens implant (IOL) after removing the natural lens, allowing for less refractive error following surgery. These standard monofocal IOLs have generally been calculated to reduce the need for distance correction for most patients, allowing them to use “cheaters” or overthe-counter reading glasses. Some patients
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who have astigmatism still need a mild glasses prescription following surgery. The most modern technology can actually eliminate or greatly reduce the need for glasses after surgery for most patients. For one, the measurement process that is used to calculate the power of the IOL that will be placed during surgery has become much more precise, with the addition of the IOLMaster and/or Lenstar Optical Biometers, the Verion™ Image Guided System and the ORA™ System with VerifEye- all systems used by the surgeons at Advanced Eye Institute. Additionally, specialized IOLs (such as the Tecnis® Toric, Tecnis® multifocal, Acrysof® IQ Toric, Acrysof® IQ ReSTOR multifocal, along with the newest category of lenses called Extended depth-of-focus IOLs such as the Tecnis® Symfony and the Tecnis® Symfony Toric) have now been developed to not only correct distance vision, but also correct for astigmatism, as well as reading and intermediate vision. These “Lifestyle” IOLs do have some out of pocket expense that the standard monofocal IOLs do not, but if eliminating glasses and/or contact lenses is important to you, the investment will last a lifetime.
AND JUST FOR FUN
“A lie can be detected by observing a person’s eyes.” The truth is: This has to do more with psychology and behavior than biology, but it is true that people are less likely to look you in the eye if they are lying. Additionally, they may be inclined to look to the side. The reasons behind this are not yet clear, but it certainly has to do with human behavior. And one last thing: the common myth that a stye is caused by performing a certain bodily function on the side of the road – well, that’s just not true. If someone tells you that it is, just observe their eyes to see if they may be pulling the wool over yours.
To schedule an appointment with any of our specialists at Advanced Eye Institute, or for more information on any of the procedures or our technology, such as the Tecnis® Symfony IOL, call us at 985/446-0506 or 985/879-2393. You can also find us on the web at www. friendlyeyecare.com or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AdvancedEyeInstitute.
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Taking the Fight Forward Stage 4 Breast Cancer Survivor, Mrs. Jean Lake, encourages other cancer patients to have a positive attitude, never lose hope and stay strong.
“When you’ve been given the words you have cancer, your world goes blank,” explains Breast Cancer Survivor Jean Lake. “I told my husband I’m going to beat this, I’m a warrior.” As Jean continues her fight against cancer, it is estimated over 246,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed this year. At Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center, we encourage our community to help us Take the Fight Forward and increase survivorship. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and our local cancer center is encouraging our community to “Geaux Pink” and raise funds that help Jean and other patients in our community fight against cancer. Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center provides the full continuum of cancer care – from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, treatment, recovery and survivorship. It is through funds raised by events such as Ladies Night Out and Geaux Pink that our cancer center is able to provide support and resources to our patients. Patients are able to receive emotional support through our support groups, wigs and head scarves through “Beautiful You” and financial assistance to help lessen the burden of cancer. “The moment I arrived at the cancer center, the staff had open arms,” explains Jean. “They are so caring, comforting, they don’t want you to be alone to go through this and they have
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become my second family.” These support services mean everything to cancer patients and help give them strength in their fight against cancer. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with cancer or experienced a loved one’s diagnosis, everyone has been affected by cancer. “By hosting or supporting a Geaux Pink event for Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center, you are providing support to your local community,” explains Melanie Guilbeaux, Director of Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center. “All of the funds raised are used to support patients and offer free screenings in our community.” The cancer center’s Early Bird Medical Mobile Unit can be found throughout our community offering free screenings and education to those in need. Since the inception of the screening program in the Bayou Region, nearly 8,000 free screenings have been provided with 48 cancers being diagnosed as a result of those screenings. Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center’s medical oncologist and screening advocate, Dr. Genevieve Maronge, believes screenings and preventative care are key to fighting cancer. “The best defense against any form of cancer is early detection,” explains Dr. Maronge. “Breast cancer screenings can
Since the inception of the screening program in the Bayou Region, nearly 8,000 free screenings have been provided with 48 cancers being diagnosed as a result of those screenings.
detect cancer before it causes any signs or symptoms, increasing a patient’s chance of survival. I encourage all women to discuss preventative care with their physicians to determine if there are any risk factors and what screenings are recommended. ” With the number of cancer diagnosis continuing to climb, early detection and treatment are vital factors needed for survivorship.
“We are proud to be able to offer nationally-recognized cancer care to our community.” Thanks to the dedicated Medical Oncologists, Radiation Oncologists, nurses and staff, Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center is our region’s leader in cancer care. Our cancer center team provides comprehensive services such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery, as well as patient navigation, clinical trials and free community screenings. “Our community should feel very fortunate to have such a fabulous facility that we have today to treat cancer patients so close to home,” explains Jean. “Terrebonne General Medical Center and Mary Bird Perkins reach the highest excellence in patient care. No matter what stage of cancer, they are so compassionate and loving, and they feel your pain, just as much as you feel it, and they are there for you.” Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center has grown and evolved to meet the needs of the community, but its mission has remained the same: to improve survivorship and lessen the burden of cancer. This
mission is especially important in Louisiana because our state suffers from high cancer mortality rates due to lack of access to care, delayed diagnosis and other factors. “We are proud to be able to offer nationally-recognized cancer care to our community,” explains Phyllis Peoples, President and CEO of TGMC. “Our cancer patients are fighting a very difficult battle, and our focus is to support our patients and provide the most advanced treatment options available to fight that battle with them.” With breast cancer affecting the lives of so many people, this is often the time of year people look to give and support local causes. Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center encourages our community to be proactive in your health care and get screened, Geaux Pink this month to support Breast cancer and your local cancer center, and join us as we continue to take the fight forward. To learn more about Geaux Pink and Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center, visit mbptgmc.org.
In 2015, Geaux Pink events held in our community raised over $60,000 for the Cancer Center.
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