An Effective Solution to an

BETSY

CLEMENS MD is owner and medical principal at Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, located at 450 North New Ballas Road in Creve Coeur. Dr. Clemens has specialized in evaluating and treating anal/rectal disorders for over 10 years and has performed over 28,000 IRC procedures. Prior to opening MWHTC, Dr. Clemens had a very busy family medicine practice and she remains board certified in family medicine. She has a comprehensive understanding of the body and uses a systematic approach to the diagnostic and treatment process. She received her medical degree from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and completed her residency at St. Johns Mercy Medical Center. For an appointment at the Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, you can call 314-384-5710. To learn more about them and about IRC, you can visit mwhtc-stl.com.

An Effective Solution for an Uncomfortable Problem

INFRARED COAGULATION IS A PAINLESS, LASTING TREATMENT FOR HEMORRHOIDS. BY BETSY CLEMENS, MD

lmost everyone suffers

Afrom hemorrhoids at some time in their lives. Hemorrhoids are normal “cushions” of tissue filled with blood vessels at the end of the rectum. If enlarged, they can cause unpleasant symptoms. If left untreated, surgery may be required, which can be painful and require days to weeks of recovery. Treatment options depend on the size of the hemorrhoids and severity of symptoms. Topical medications can relieve itching and shrink mild hemorrhoids. But for enlarged or bleeding hemorrhoids, options for longer-term relief have been limited to sclerotherapy, involving injections similar to those for varicose veins, rubber band ligation, stapling and surgery. Each of these can have varying results, cause days of discomfort and possibly cause complications, some of which are severe. But another option is available, an outpatient procedure called infrared coagulation (IRC). It provides long-term relief and is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that many studies have shown to be the optimal non-operative treatment of choice. It is fast, effective, well tolerated and has fewer complications than other options. The IRC treatment focuses infrared light on hemorrhoidal tissues. This coagulates blood vessels, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink and retract. The IRC procedure does not require anesthesia or special preparation. Patients may feel a slight warm sensation, but it usually is painless, and most patients return to work the same day. IRC received FDA clearance in 1984 and is covered by most insurance plans.

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Home Interiors: It’s Time to Start with a Clean Slate

t was an unpredictable year, to

Isay the least. No one could’ve forecasted the whirlwind that was 2020. And while there’s no telling how different things will be come January 2021, many can agree that the opportunity for a fresh, clean slate can encourage a more positive outcome for the new year. Traditional goals and resolutions often entail losing weight, saving money or making time for a new hobby. But who says you can’t step outside the box and set a home-inspired resolution instead? Restyling your home and removing clutter can work wonders for your living space and encourage a clear mindset as well. Here are a few tips for styling your home with a clean slate:

1. DECLUTTER

Letting go of the clutter you’ve collected in the last year during quarantine can be a cleanse and home revamp in itself. When clearing out the chaos remind yourself of each room’s purpose. For instance, you shouldn’t have stacks of mail taking vacancy on the kitchen table. Likewise, your bedroom isn’t for the kids’ toys. Dispose of the items you don’t need, use or want, and rearrange everything in between.

2. CREATE A NEW ORGANIZATION SYSTEM

Getting organized is the first step. Maintaining the hard work and keeping everything in its rightful place is the second half of the battle. Placing various shelving systems in different rooms of your home can help keep things in order and add style to the functionality of the living space.

3. REPAINT THE WALLS

If you’re looking for the ultimate refresh, painting the walls can satisfy your craving to change things up for the new year. According to Better Homes & Gardens, some of the trendy paint colors emerging in 2021 include those with earthy rust tones, as well as aqua, teal, apricot and a rich and bold gray-brown. This gives you plenty of options to work from that flow with your personal style and the look you want to achieve. Of course, you can always choose your own paint color that goes against the trends; express yourself!

4. UPGRADE YOUR FURNITURE

Similar to painting the walls, new furniture can add a fresh new face to any room. This is a great move to consider if you haven’t updated your furniture in a decade, or you’re interested in downsizing to achieve a more minimalist look. Use your new wall color to inspire a new style, pattern and texture for seating arrangements and other complementary items.

5. DON’T FORGET THE BELLS AND WHISTLES

… Or in this case, the decor and accessories that tie everything together. This is a step to consider as you declutter and reorganize — if you removed accent decor from space, does it need to be replaced? New accessories can make your home feel complete again after cleaning things up. Redesigning, styling and organizing your home all in one go can be more time-efficient, but it can also be an intimidating feat. If you’re ready to start the new year off with a clean slate but need some assistance, it’s time to reach out to a personal decorator from Decorating Den Interiors. They can come to your home, or call you, for a free in-home or virtual design consultation. During the discussion, the design consultant will get to know you and better understand your home goals, personal style,

wants and needs. From there, your personal decorator will be your go-to specialist throughout the redesign process, answering all questions and assisting you whenever you need. The new year is the perfect time to break new ground on a revamping living space. You can contact the Decorating Den Interiors St. Louis area team by email at SWATDesignTeam@DecoratingDen.com or at 314-275-0667 or, and you can learn more at www.DecoratingDen.com.