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Promoting Healthier Living in Your Community • Physical • Emotional • Nutritional
November 2012
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Unveiling Your Dorian Gray Eastland Chiropractic and Lifestyle Center and The Wellness Score page 20
Allergies or a Common Cold? pg. 23
When Home Sweet Home Isn’t pg. 34 The Headache Detective pg. 44
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Dele Ogunleye, MD, FACOG | Summer Hinthorne, MSN, APN | Gretchen Dean, PT November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 3
NOVEMBER
Volume 7, Issue 11
Unveiling Your Dorian Gray
Emotional: Helping Children Cope with a Parent's Diagnosis
Eastland Chiropractic and Lifestyle Center and The Wellness Score page 20
Nutritional: Organic Versus the Green Revolution Cancer Treatment: A New Hope for Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy Quotient Testing: Teens and ADD/ADHD Safe Sweetening: Your Sweet Tooth Personal Response Systems: Peace of Mind for Older Adults Healthy Kids: Does Your Child Have Allergies or a Common Cold? Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD): Is Your Jaw Giving You a Headache? Healthcare Law: Will the System Work? Prostate Health: "You Can't Have One Without an Erection–Can You?" Men's Health: Movember–Changing the Face of Men's Health, One Mustache at a Time Heart Attacks and Strokes: Why Every Second Counts Senior Living: When Home Sweet Home Isn't Healthy Feet: Thanksgiving–Related More to Feet than You Think Women's Health: Hormonal Imbalance Heart Health: Facing Down Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Youth Grief Recovery: When a "Less Than Loved One" Dies Community Service: Faith in Action The Headache Detective: Digging for the True Cause Scar Treatment: An Innovative Approach Drive Safely: Watch Out for Animals in the Road Social Dance: Want to Get Smarter? Go Dancing!
Cover and feature story photos by élan Photography
6 8 10 12 14 16 18 23 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 37 38 40 42 44 45 46 48
This Month’s Cover Story:
Physical: ACL Injuries
2012
For information about this publication, contact Cheryl Eash, owner, at 309-664-2524, ceash7@gmail.com Healthy Cells Magazine and Pastelle Magazine are both a division of:
1711 W. Detweiller Dr., Peoria, IL 61615 Ph: 309-681-4418 Fax: 309-691-2187 info@limelightlink.com www.healthycellsmagazine.com and www.pastellemagazine.com Mission: The objective of Healthy Cells Magazine is to promote a stronger health-conscious community by means of offering education and support through the cooperative efforts among esteemed health and fitness professionals in the greater Bloomington-Normal area. Healthy Cells Magazine is intended to heighten awareness of health and fitness information and does not suggest diagnosis or treatment. This information is not a substitute for medical attention. See your healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment. The opinions, statements, and claims expressed by the columnists, advertisers, and contributors to Healthy Cells Magazine are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher. Healthy Cells Magazine is available FREE at over 450 locations, including major grocery stores throughout the Bloomington-Normal area as well as hospitals, physicians’ offices, pharmacies, and health clubs. Healthy Cells Magazine welcomes contributions pertaining to healthier living in the Bloomington-Normal area. Limelight Communications, Inc. assumes no responsibility for their publication or return.
“I wish to thank all of the advertisers who make this magazine possible. They believe enough in providing positive health information to the public that they are willing to pay for it so you won’t have to.” Cheryl Eash
November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 5
physical
ACL Injuries By Robert K. Seidl, MD, Orthopedic Sports Enhancement Center
T
he Anterior Cruciate Ligament or ACL is one of the four primary ligaments around the knee joint, and is the important stabilizer of the knee for anterior and rotational control. If torn, it cannot heal on its own. Someone with this injury can experience instability during certain activities and sports. These episodes of instability can lead to internal damage, which can ultimately cause arthritis. Athletes who tear their ACL cannot return to many sports unless the ACL is reconstructed. Therefore, in people who tear their ACL, surgical reconstruction of this ligament should be considered in highly active individuals and athletes. ACL tears can occur in daily life activities, but most often occur in sports in which cutting, quick starts and stops, and rapid changes in direction or deceleration take place. They can occur during contact or more commonly during non-contact activities, often with some type of hyperextension mechanism. A planted fixed leg that is hit from the side can also cause these injuries, or just a rapid stop or change of direction with no outside contact can be responsible. Many sports such as football, skiing, wrestling, basketball, soccer, gymnastics, and many others have been found to be the most prevalent producers of ACL injuries. The incidence of ACL injuries in these Page 6 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
sports appears to be increasing due to the higher level of competition, and the younger ages these levels are being obtained. More Common in Females The overall incidence of ACL injuries and comparison of male to female incidence show some interesting differences. Moncastle et. Al (1) looked at college students between 1994 and 2003 at major institutions to attempt to calculate the incidence of ACL injuries. The researchers calculated a four year accident proportion of 3.24 per 100 students for men and 3.51 for women. Overall the ACL injury rate, not including male only sports, was substantially greater in women. Other studies have suggested that women have a three times higher incidence of ACL injury than men. Several factors have been linked to this difference. Anatomy (including leg alignment measures), hormonal differences (with actual estrogen and progesterone receptors found in the ACL of women), and overall differences in ligament strength between the sexes are noted as reasons for the higher injury rate in females. Some studies have shown different rates of ACL tears associated with different times of the menstrual cycle. Some recent research has pointed to the substantial
difference in neuromuscular coordination and control in landing, combined with alignment differences and hip movements contributing to the difference. Several researchers and authors have suggested training regimens to change the neuromuscular coordination and improve it, to prevent ACL injuries. This has been incorporated into many of the training exercises in the Accleration Program at our institution. Making the Diagnosis Initial symptoms of an ACL tear include severe pain, swelling (often in the first few hours), an unstable feeling or symptoms of shifting and locking. The athlete may hear an audible pop, and many experience an internal sense that something dramatic has happened to their knee. Physical evaluation by their family physician or orthopedic surgeon is helpful in making the diagnosis. Fairly marked swelling is usually present, as well as decreased, painful range of motion. The history or mechanism of injury is very helpful in raising suspicion for this injury. Also, several physical tests are helpful. These include one of the most sensitive, the Lachman test, in which the knee is flexed at 20 to 30 degrees, and the examiner places one hand on tibia and the other on the femur and directs the tibia anterior to the femur. The experience of the examiner with this test directly relates to its accuracy. Other physical tests include the less accurate anterior drawer test. The pivot shift test is accurate but requires the patient to be relaxed and is therefore difficult in the acute setting. This test examines not only antero-posterior translation, but rotational stability as well. A machine called the KT-1000 actually measures the amount of translation and can be used on the uninjured leg for comparison. Although the history and physical examination are very important and usually very accurate, most of the time an MRI (magnetic resonance
image) is used to confirm the diagnosis. The MRI gives an extremely accurate picture of the ligaments and other soft tissues around the knee including the menisci (the two cartilage disc shock absorbers in the knee). It is important to look for associated injuries. For example, the medial collateral ligament (MCL) or posterolateral corner injuries, as these may alter timing and type of ultimate surgery. The significance and magnitude of an ACL tear makes the idea of prevention very attractive. Recent research has shown that the incidence of noncontact ACL tears can be reduced by 20-80% by engaging in regular neuromuscular training that is designed to enhance proprioception, balance, proper movement patterns, and muscle strength. These concepts are currently being used in many of the training programs at the Orthopedic and Sports Enhancement Center. Unfortunately brace usage to prevent ACL injuries has not proven successful, but is helpful in the first few months back to sports after surgical reconstruction. Next month’s article will discuss treatment of ACL injuries, including surgical and non-surgical options. Dr. Seidl is Board Certified in Orthopedic Surgery and Subspecialty Board Certified and Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine. For more information, you may contact the Orthopedic & Sports Enhancement Center, 309-663-9300, located at 2406 E. Empire in Bloomington. They provide complete orthopedic care including general orthopedics, spine and back, knee replacement, sports medicine, worker’s compensation and personal injury and physical therapy as well as sports specific enhancement programs.
November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 7
emotional
Helping Children Cope with a Parent’s Diagnosis By Katie E. Grabowski
L
earning that someone has a cancer diagnosis is an overwhelming event. In a matter of seconds, life feels like it has been turned upside down. Words like “chemotherapy” and “stage IV” take on a new meaning. The future seems less predictable. While battling cancer is often a very scary event for adults, it becomes much scarier for children and teens. People often try to protect children from sad events as they think that kids will not understand what is happening or that the news will scare them. Yet children know something is different. Page 8 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
They notice when Mommy or Daddy is crying, even if they try to hide their tears. They notice that their parents have been “sick” a lot or that they cannot spend as much time with them lately. Unless someone tells them what is happening, children often begin to think it is their fault or that their parents have stopped loving them. Children are not just “little adults.” They learn differently and do not have as many life experiences. They may hear about a cancer diagnosis and then want to go finish playing with their trains. This does not mean that children do not care; it simply means that
they can only handle so much information at one time. After playing for a while, kids may later talk about the topic with their parents. They like to gather little pieces of information at a time. Year-round support groups for children and teens are offered free of charge at the Community Cancer Center. These groups are designed for children and teens who have a loved one with cancer or who have experienced the death of a loved one from cancer. All kids who have/had a loved one with cancer are welcome, even if their parents/loved ones are not patients of the Community Cancer Center. Children’s support groups are filled with activities that let children explore their feelings, learn more about cancer, and remember that they can still be a kid and have fun despite cancer’s presence in their lives. Recent support groups have allowed children to put on a puppet show explaining their fears and how to cope with them. In another session, kids have drawn pictures of positive/negative ways to deal with their feelings. Sometimes, teens have discussed their feelings or the changes in their lives because of cancer. No matter the activity, it is through such groups that children and teens begin to understand cancer and support one another, realizing that they are not alone in the battle against cancer. Katie Grabowski is the ISU Child Life Graduate Assistant and leader of support groups for children and teens at the Community Cancer Center. For more information or to register your child for support groups, please call Candi Gray, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C at 309-451-8500 or visit the Community Cancer Center at 407 East Vernon Avenue, Normal, IL 61761.
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nutritional
TomAto, TomatOH!
Organic Versus the Green Revolution By Jonelle Galuska
T
he scientific community has yet to come to a consensus regarding the debate over organic versus inorganically produced food (dubbed the “Green Revolution” when the industrialization of agriculture began in the 1940s). The USDA defines organic agriculture as an “ecological production management system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity. It is based on minimal use of off-farm inputs and on management practices that restore, maintain, and enhance ecological harmony.” Webster’s Dictionary defines the Green Revolution as “the great increase in production of food grains (as rice and wheat) due to the introduction of high-yielding varieties, to the use of pesticides, and to better management techniques.” This includes using genetically modified seeds. While the Food Standard Agency issued a report in 2009 concluding there was “no evidence to support the selection of organic versus inorganically-produced foods on the basis of nutritional superiority”, it acknowledged the analysis did not address pesticide residue, taste, or impact on the environment. Continued growth in the organic food industry demonstrates increased demand despite the increased cost of organic products. In a society where consumer demand often dictates the outcome of debates, each of us has to consider how our choices will impact our pocketbook, our world, and our future. So where does this leave consumers? It’s up to each of us to decide. I am not a doctor, nutritionist, or scientist. I don’t claim to have the answers; I’m just trying to sort it out like the rest of you, so I believe in sharing considerations from all sides of the issue. Now I humbly present an extremely simplified overview from different angles of the debate. First, we have the Pro-Organic camp that argues organic food tastes better and is more nutritive. Next, we have proponents of the green revolution. In addition to making produce more affordable and available, they insist science has validated their claims that both types of food are equal in terms of nutritional value. But the debate goes beyond the question about which choice is healthier to consume. Experts are also debating the long-term impact on the environment based on the production methods themselves. Jim Cochran, organic advocate and founder of Swanton Berry Farm, stated his case for organic food production to OneEarth.com in April of 2011. While he acknowledged we might have to sacrifice some variety of produce in some geographic locations, he argued organic food production protects our global food supply because diversity in production methods prevents large-scale contamination due to disease or human contamination. Yet CFACT (Committee For a Constructive Tomorrow), a proconventional farming advocate, argues a global conversion to organic farming would lead to a food supply catastrophe where we lose the ability to feed nearly 2 billion of the world’s people. Page 10 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
If you’re still not sure which camp you want to set up your tent, you are not alone. With science that seems to support either side, it’s no wonder there are so many on the fence about the issue. The Mayo Clinic appears to fall in this camp as information on their site seems to support a balanced approach that includes consuming a variety between the two, considers your budget, and recommends thoroughly washing all produce to remove any pesticide residue. (I recommend visiting the Mayo Clinic website for more information about both sides of the issue and a guide to organic labels.) I believe there are two sides to every story and a grain of truth to both of them. Debate among the science community is nothing new. I’m sure there were scientists who went to their grave being considered a quack for believing the world was round. This is why I’m passionate about taking it upon myself to seek out both sides of any debate and I am making it a mission to encourage other people to do the same. Visit the www.MamaLeDish.com TomAto, TomatOH! Series for more information on this and other parenting topics. This article was contributed by Jonelle Galuska, cofounder of www.ViviLeDish.com and www.MamaLeDish.com—websites designed to provide families with a daily, digestible dose of kitchen and wellness education. Jonelle is on a mission to help fellow parents sort through an information super highway of differing expert opinions through the TomAto, TomatOH! Series.
Apple Smiles 1 apple 1 Tbsp. peanut butter 1/8 cup raisins
Instructions
Wash the fruit and review recipe for allergies. Slice apple into wedges. Spread peanut butter on an apple wedge. Decorate the peanut butter center with four raisins to create the "smile". Make a silly face at your smiley apple! Source: www.viviledish.com/cookbook#apple-smiles
We Got The Beet Salad 4–6 2 Tbsp. 1 Tbsp. 1 Tbsp. 1
boiled beets olive oil honey red wine vinegar bunch finely chopped parsley
Instructions
Prepare ingredients & wash the produce. Review recipe for allergies. Boil beets and remove skins (they should come off easily!) and chop into cubes. Add beets into the bowl and sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. In a separate small bowl combine olive oil, vinegar, and honey—mix well. Drizzle over the beets and serve or refrigerate immediately! Source: www.viviledish.com/cookbook#beet-salad
Dr. Pramern Sriratana, Dr. Hwan Jeong, and Dr. John Migas Would like to welcome Dr. Vakkalanka to the practice of Mid-Illinois Hematology & Oncology Associates, Ltd. • American Board certified in
Internal Medicine & Medical Oncology
• Member of medical staff of
Advocate BroMenn Medical Center OSF St. Joseph Medical Center OSF St. James Medical Center in Pontiac
He is accepting new patients and welcoming consultations Bhanu Vakkalanka, M.D., M.R.C.P., F.R.C.R.
309-452-9701 | 407 E. Vernon, Normal, IL 61761 | www.mihoaonline.org November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 11
cancer treatment
A New Hope for Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy By Amy Kennard
A
drug normally prescribed by physicians to treat depression is showing promise for cancer patients who are experiencing peripheral neuropathy, a common side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs. Duloxetine, commercially known as Cymbalta™, is an antidepressant that was recently in the forefront of a nationwide study to gauge its effects on this uncomfortable and sometimes painful condition.
What is peripheral neuropathy? Peripheral neuropathy is caused by damage to nerves, most commonly the sensory nerves (that sense touch, heat, or pain). It can affect patients in a number of different ways, the most common being pain, tingling and numbness, usually in the toes, fingers, feet and hands. Other symptoms of neuropathy include: • Loss of sensation to touch • Difficulty picking things up or buttoning clothes • Weakness, cramping or pain in hands and/or feet • Sensitivity to temperature extremes Page 12 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
• Muscle weakness and balance problems • Constipation • Decreased reflexes Neuropathy affects 20 to 30 percent of cancer patients treated with certain chemotherapy drugs, namely taxane and platinum-based drugs. As these drugs travel throughout the body to target and kill cancer cells, they can also cause damage to nerve cells. Symptoms of neuropathy can begin any time after chemotherapy has begun and can worsen as treatment continues; often lasting for months or even years after treatment is stopped. Until now, researchers have not been able to find a suitable medication to help relieve this condition, which truly affects not only the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing treatment, but may jeopardize that treatment as well. Nationwide study has optimistic results Research studies are vital in order to improve the outcomes and the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses such as cancer. National studies rely on the participation of individual prac-
tices around the country. Illinois CancerCare, under the direction of research physicians Nguyet Le-Lindqwister, MD, and Sachdev Thomas, MD, recently participated in a nationwide study to determine the effects of Cymbalta on cancer patients suffering from neuropathy. Chetaye Knox, Clinical Research Associate for Illinois CancerCare and highest accruing coordinator for this clinical trial, co-authored the results that were presented to the American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting in June of this year. The nationwide study consisted of 231 patients, including 21 patients from Illinois CancerCare. All patients reported painful neuropathy after receiving the chemotherapy drugs oxaliplatin or paclitaxel. Oxaliplatin is designed to keep new cancer cells from growing. Paclitaxel is designed to block cancer cells from dividing, which may cause them to die. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either Cymbalta or a placebo for six weeks, then were switched to the other for another six weeks. They were asked to report on their pain levels weekly throughout the study. The results were encouraging, with nearly 60 percent of patients who took daily Cymbalta for six weeks reporting a decrease in pain, compared with nearly 40 percent of patients who took a placebo. Pain levels increased 28 percent of those who took the placebo, but only 11 percent of the Cymbalta-treated patients. One step closer Chetaye expressed her satisfaction with the positive results of the study’s findings, and shared some of the reactions of the patients that benefitted from the drug. “While coordinating this study, I spoke with participants firsthand about their reduction in painful neuropathy. A couple of the highlights for me were seeing a patient reignite her love for sewing again and another patient being able to get through a full day at his construction job without experiencing pain in his feet.” She continued, “While not all patients experienced a benefit from the Cymbalta, we did have a number of participants at our site that experienced reduced pain.” Cymbalta has previously been shown to help relieve neuropathy in diabetic patients. This type of antidepressant is believed to increase neurotransmitters in the brain to actually interrupt pain signals. Managing a patient’s neuropathy pain is critical to their treatment process, since at times it can lead to the physician actually limiting a chemotherapy dose in order to decrease the severity of the neuropathy. In other cases, patients may avoid telling their physicians about their pain because they don’t want to decrease their treatment dosage. Overall, the study brings the medical profession one step closer to helping patients combat some of the negative side effects of chemotherapy. “In oncology research, our number one priority is to find the absolute best treatments for our patients,” Chetaye said. “While we tend to focus a great deal of attention on eliminating cancer through various treatments, it is important to not forget about the related side effects. Chemotherapy induced painful neuropathy may alter our patient’s ability to tolerate chemotherapy and their overall quality of life. The positive results of this research study and other clinical trials can help us change the future of medicine and provide better treatment options for our patients.” Illinois CancerCare is a comprehensive practice treating patients with cancer and blood diseases. As one of the largest private oncology practices in the nation, their focus is on providing state-of-the-art treatments while staying on the leading edge of breakthrough research and medicines. Clinical trials are also available for qualifying patients at the Bloomington facility. For more information or to find one of their 13 clinics throughout Illinois, visit their website at www.illinoiscancercare.com.
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November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 13
quotient testing
Teens and ADD/ADHD By Dr. Anjum Bashir
A
ttention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders and most children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity as they enter adolescence. Some children, however, are not even diagnosed with ADHD until they reach adolescence. This is more common among children with predominantly inattentive symptoms (ADD) because they are not necessarily disruptive at home or in school. In these children, the disorder becomes more apparent as academic demands increase and responsibilities mount. The hormonal changes of adolescence can often cause the symptoms of ADD/ADHD to be more pronounced. Although the hyperactivity component of ADHD tends to decrease as a child matures, teens who continue to be hyperactive may feel restless and try to do too many things at once. They may choose tasks or activities that have a quick payoff, rather than those that take more effort, but provide bigger, delayed rewards. Teens with primarily attention deficits struggle with school and other activities in which they are expected to be more self-reliant. Teens also become more responsible for their own health decisions. When a child with ADHD is young, parents are more likely to be responsible for ensuring that their child maintains treatment. But when the child reaches adolescence, parents have less control, and those with ADHD may have difficulty sticking with treatment. Teens with or without ADHD want to be independent and try new things, and sometimes they will break rules. Although many teens engage in risky behaviors, those with ADHD, particularly if it is untreated, are more likely to take more risks. In fact, in their first few years of driving, teens with ADHD are involved in nearly four times as many car accidents as those who do not have ADHD. They are also more likely to cause injury in accidents, and they get three times as many speeding tickets as their peers. Teens with ADHD are also more likely to have problems with drug or alcohol abuse. For all teens, these years are challenging. But for teens with ADHD, these years may be especially difficult and the consequences of undiagnosed and/or untreated ADHD are potentially more serious. Since the symptoms of ADHD in teens can mimic symptoms of other problems such as depression, anxiety disorders, or learning disabilities, it is imperative to first get an accurate medical diagnosis of ADHD so proper treatment can begin. Page 14 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
A new FDA approved technology is now available that can diagnose ADHD more accurately and with greater certainty. The Quotient® ADHD System provides doctors and parents with objective measurement of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity rather than relying only on subjective assessment. The test, which only takes about 15 minutes, involves sitting at a specially designed computer workstation. The System uses a patented Motion Tracking System to measure an individual’s movement while focusing on visual stimuli and accurately measures motion and analyzes shifts in attention state. The System then compares the results of the patient’s test to other individuals of age and gender matched groups. Results are calculated based on 19 or more parameters that combine to give a greater than 90 percent accuracy in identifying ADHD. While there is no cure, proper diagnoses and treatment can eliminate or control many of the symptoms so that teens with ADHD can be successful in school, lower their risk of alcohol and/or drug abuse, and start on a path to a fulfilling and productive life. For more information, please contact Anjum Bashir, MD at 309808-2326. His office is located at 205 N. Williamsburg, Suite D in Bloomington. He is one of the few physicians in Central Illinois offering Quotient Testing for ADHD diagnosis. More information on Quotient testing, is available online at www.biobdx.com.
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November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 15
safe sweetening
Your Sweet Tooth By Tom Rohde, MD
H
umans love the taste of sweet foods. We consume huge amounts of sugar; more than 150 pounds per person in the U.S.! Unfortunately, sugar is one of the most inflammatory substances we put into our body. Remember that all the bad things that happen to our health are based on inflammation: diabetes, heart disease, abnormal cholesterol, gout, cancer, and others. Most, if not all of these are driven by the excessive carbohydrates we take in! Our goal should be to minimize inflammation or the inflammatory response in our bodies to maximize health and longevity. This begins by minimizing our sugar intake and anything that the body will metabolize to sugar. These would include simple carbohydrates like white rice, white bread, pasta, potatoes, and unfortunately, many others. Page 16 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
So, how do we sweeten foods safely? Don't reach for sugar substitutes like Aspartame (Nutrasweet and other names) or Sucralose (Splenda and other names). These are both toxic substances and can cause many health problems. Aspartame accounts for over 75 percent of the adverse reactions to food additives reported to the FDA. Many of these reactions are very serious including seizures and death. A few of the many documented symptoms are: headaches/ migraines, dizziness, seizures, nausea, numbness, muscle spasms, weight gain, rashes, depression, fatigue, irritability, tachycardia, insomnia, vision problems, hearing loss, heart palpitations, breathing difficulties, anxiety attacks, slurred speech, loss of taste, tinnitus, vertigo, memory loss, and joint pain. These artificial sweeteners have also been implicated in increased incidences of various tumors.
"Your very best option is to slowly wean yourself off of sugar and start to enjoy a healthier lifestyle without any sweeteners at all." About 10 percent of Aspartame consists of methanol, or wood alcohol. Methanol breaks down into formic acid and formaldehyde in the body. Formaldehyde, better known as an embalming fluid, is a deadly neurotoxin. The EPA states that methanol "is considered a cumulative poison due to the low rate of excretion once it is absorbed. In the body, methanol is oxidized to formaldehyde and formic acid; both of these metabolites are toxic." They recommend limiting intake to less than eight mg/day. A one-liter diet beverage contains about 56 mg of methanol—yikes! If you eat or drink more than that, you could really be in serious long-term jeopardy with your health! Sucralose is also dangerous. Sugar is chemically altered in the lab and three chlorine molecules are attached to make it indigestible. Chlorine is toxic to your health. It can interfere with thyroid
health and it can damage your health—promoting gut bacteria. This predisposes you to other health problems if you don't take a daily probiotic as I've suggested previously. Worse, it isn't broken down so it ends up in the water when you excrete it. Waste water treatment doesn't remove it so some city water supplies have tested positive for Sucralose— another chemical we unknowingly take into our body. Another tragic issue with these artificial sweeteners is that research shows that if you use these long-term you will actually gain weight. They shut down your calorie counter in the brain, and as you eat, your body literally “loses track” of the calories you are consuming so you tend to take in more calories. Talk about a rotten deal! If you want to read a great book to understand some of the brain toxicity from these and other medications in our society check out Excitotoxins: The Taste That Kills by Dr. Russell Blaylock. So, what to do? I suggest Stevia, which is a natural plant extract. It comes in liquid form in the health food store or nutritional supplement section of the grocery store. It has no calories and no glycemic load so it is perfect for diabetics. Stevia is even available in flavored forms to give some variety to your foods and beverages. Your very best option is to slowly wean yourself off of sugar and start to enjoy a healthier lifestyle without any sweeteners at all. Drink lots of purified water and stick to unsweetened tea and coffee on an occasion. Dr. Rohde is available to help you evaluate your health and start a healthier lifestyle. Call 217-864-2700 for an appointment, visit them online at www.DrRohde.com, and like them on Facebook at: Renew Total Body Wellness.
Dental Implants • Aesthetic Dentistry • Sedation Dentistry
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All services provided in the comfort and convenience of one location. November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 17
personal response systems
Peace of Mind for Older Adults By Neidi Mack, OSF Home Care Services
P
eace of mind for Collette Stewart came in the form of a small, white pendant her mother wore around her neck. Stewart felt lucky to live and work so close to her mom. But even with the ability to get to her mom’s house in just a few minutes, Stewart worried. Her mother, Doris Renwick, was beginning to suffer from dementia. On her own, Renwick decided to have a personal response system installed in her home. In January, with Renwick’s dementia progressing, mother and daughter decided to upgrade from the standard service to the auto alert. So one Page 18 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
morning in March when her mother fell and was unable to get up or call for help, the device triggered a series of events that had help at her door in minutes. “I wouldn’t have been there for probably six hours,” said Stewart, who always checked on her mother after work. “She would have laid there and suffered. We were so fortunate she had that service so she didn’t have to suffer. She had help immediately.” Renwick had been using a personal response system by Philips Lifeline that is offered by many homecare agencies in Central
"Even if no emergency response is ever needed, it provides untold reassurance for older residents and their families." The medication dispenser also alerts the family members if a dose is missed, Schaidle said. The device can be programmed to remind people to take medicine that can’t be put in the unit, such as insulin, or when medicine needs to be taken with food. Renwick, Stewart, and her siblings decided it was time for Renwick to move to a nursing home after she recovered from her fall in March. But they all appreciate that between the medicine dispenser and the Lifeline device, Renwick was able to safely remain in her own home for many more months that she would have been able to. “They just gave us so much security and relief,” Stewart said. “It made all the difference.”
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Illinois. The standard service requires the user to push a button to call for help. The auto alert is more popular for individuals who live alone, according to Karen Schaidle, OSF Personal Response System Sales and Service Coordinator. “With the auto alert, if they fall and they don’t get up within 30 seconds, the unit will automatically send a signal for help,” Schaidle said. With both services, clients get a voice on the other end with the push of a button. They’re welcome to push the button to ask questions or change their designated list of responders. A responder is someone who lives within 15 minutes travel time who can help the individual if their need doesn’t rise to the level of needing an ambulance. Some clients prefer to have a responder called before an ambulance, even for an auto alert call. The service can be tailored to the client’s comfort. Clients also may designate people who don’t live close, such as an out-of-state child, to be notified if there is an incident. Schaidle has had clients who have pushed the button for other emergencies as well, including hearing an intruder. She’s even heard of intruders abandoning their attempt to gain entry after hearing two voices in the house. But even if no emergency response is ever needed, it provides untold reassurance for older residents and their families. Stewart had extra reassurance because her mother also used a medicine dispenser product, also made by Philips. She would load the unit with medicine and program in her mother’s prescription schedule, and the device would verbally instruct Renwick to take her medicine and release the correct dosage with the touch of a button.
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feature story
Unveiling Your Dorian Gray
Eastland Chiropractic and Lifestyle Center and The Wellness Score By Alexander Germanis
Steve Gagliano, D.C. Conducting a functional nerve scan
I
n 1890, the English writer Oscar Wilde penned a story about a handsome, erudite, and suave man who never seemed to age and whose life of debauchery never reflected on his visage. Hidden from prying eyes in the man’s attic, however, stood a portrait of the man as he—or his soul—really was: decrepit, tainted, and unwell. Wilde’s book, The Picture of Dorian Gray, illustrated the unpleasant things that can lie beneath a pleasant surface—unseen and, sometimes, even unknown to ourselves. Page 20 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
The human body can be little different from Dorian Gray. Beneath a seemingly healthy exterior can lurk problems of which we are unaware. This is why the medical profession encourages regular screenings and check-ups and why places like Eastland Chiropractic and Lifestyle Center have adopted The Wellness Score, a new scale of wellness developed by Dr. Dane Donohue, the nationally-renowned chiropractor who also co-created the “8 Weeks to Wellness Program.”
Deb Hoelscher, co-founder of Eastland Chiropractic, explains that wellness “is not just the absence of symptoms, because we know that people can have no symptoms, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re well—like with heart disease.” That’s where the new scale of wellness comes in. The Burden of Stress The Wellness Score takes into account not just the obvious, such as the healthy habit of regular exercise, but it also measures the effects of other factors—issues broken down and categorized into the three T’s of trauma, thoughts, and toxins. Within these categories are such things as: the types of foods ingested; the intake of substances like tobacco, alcohol, and drugs— both prescription and illegal; and physical, mental and emotional stress. Stress plays a big part in the overall wellness of the body and a surprising number of things can lead to or cause stress outright. Steve Gagliano, D.C. and Emotional and mental stress can be brought on by an almost neverending list of troubles: financial worries, school, work, family, guilt, anger, personal relationships, or grief over the loss of a loved one. The stress list is far from over. Along with mental and emotional strain, there are always the more apparent physical stress factors. Some of these factors are not surprising, of course. Things like childbirth, accidents, and injury are obvious, but the Wellness Score also takes the unseen physical stress catalysts into account, things like a sedentary lifestyle, regular computer use and even poor posture. “It all goes back to stress,” says Eastland Chiropractic’s Dr. Steve Gagliano. “Stress affects the nervous system. The nervous system controls everything. If you have problems with your nervous system, you start to have functional problems.” Weight, for instance, can most certainly be one of those problem-causing issues. “When you’re a little bit overweight, that’s absolutely stressful on the body.” Hidden Beneath the Surface Yet there are plenty of people who have their weight under control and would still not test well, according to the Wellness Score’s criteria. Your “weight can be within reason but you can have no core strength or flexibility,” Deb explains. Body fat percentage can still be high. “It’s what we call ‘skinny fat.’” A patient may visibly appear healthy, but there are still problems lingering beneath the surface. For instance, when weight lifters and body builders come in to Eastland Chiropractic, it is often found that their problems are not resultant from overworking muscles. “It’s not the big muscles,” Deb iterates. “It’s the little core muscles that attach to the spine that keep it stabilized,” these are the ones that can be overlooked. This can lead to spinal misalignment and potential arthritic degeneration in the
Lorraine Allison R.N. going over a Wellness Score with patient weight-bearing joints. Such spinal muscle groups are evaluated by the Wellness Score in a series of four core strength tests. Trials of Body and Spirit The strength tests are joined by fifteen other tests, including a set of four core flexibility trials. Upper and lower postural muscles are tested to look for signs of muscle “shortening.” As humans age, our muscles tighten, limiting our range of motion and causing the most common of tasks to prove difficult. Deb suggests even just “hefting a can of beans” while in the kitchen or watching TV can help keep these muscles retain their range of motion. Besides evaluating muscle strength and flexibility, the Wellness Score also implements some of the standard medical tests measuring fat mass, the body mass index (BMI), diastolic blood pressure, resting heart rate, waist to hip ratio, foot pronation, and the palpatory subluxation rating, which reveals any misalignments in the spinal segments. Certain subjective surveys are included as well. The Health Satisfaction Survey rates satisfaction with one’s personal chemical, physical and emotional health. The Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ) rates satisfaction with one’s job. Finally, there’s the Oswestry Disability Index, a survey of how pain may or may not affect one on a daily basis. Each one of these tests carries a point value which, in turn, fit into one of three categories: functional fitness, general health, and neuro-spinal health. The totals in those categories are then added up and result in an overall wellness score, which is presented as a grade identical to those used in school. An “A” is excellent or optimal health, a “B” is good, and so on. And, like in school, a score of a “D” should not be taken lightly. Unlike school, however, an “F” does not mean all is over and it is too late to improve. As long as a patient is willing to put in the effort, November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 21
feature story
continued
“we can retest them, and see the improvements that they’ve made,” Deb assures. “Getting them into an exercise program, getting their diet changed—while we don’t do all of those things here, we work with other professionals to try to get those people out to who they need to.” Changing for the Better Unfortunately for those who need instant gratification, improvement is not something that happens overnight. Often it requires, as Deb says, “designing a lifestyle, and then being determined and disciplined enough to do it.” This means steady dedication to a new way of living, not just living well on the weekends. Among those who require aid at Eastland Chiropractic are those who metaphorically go from zero to sixty in one day: “The weekend warriors,” Deb describes, “are people that decide ‘okay, I’m going to go out and get into shape’, and they go to the gym and work for an hour instead of stair-stepping it in.” Exercise is good, but too much too soon can lead back to, yes, stress. Fortunately, there is a general swing toward people wanting to uncover their
Dr. Steve checking core strength and flexibility with a patient
Dorian Grays. The alarming statistics of childhood obesity and the lowering of the average ages for diabetes and heart disease are starting to open a lot of eyes. “We’re seeing that shift,” Deb states. “We’re seeing people wanting to seek out wellness more, and the Wellness Score is such a nice way to measure that—to give them something tangible.” In fact, the staff at Eastland Chiropractic is so convinced of the Wellness Score’s effectiveness, it is now part of the standard examination. The examination need not end at the clinic, however. After a patient is tested at Eastland Chiropractic, they are given a printout indicating which areas need help and which are alright. From there, an individual has the ability to increase their grade from home. Much of increasing one’s score boils down to small and simple things. “Just look at your diet,” Deb suggests. This includes looking into how one is acquiring one’s vitamins. “You should get as much as you can naturally,” she continues. Either way, the first step toward increasing one’s score is by looking at oneself. That is the purpose of the Wellness Score: to show that it is not too late to touch-up one’s own Dorian Gray painting, and it is the purpose of Eastland Chiropractic and Lifestyle Center to help in that restoration. Their goal is and always has been to, as Deb Hoelscher puts it, help their patients “make an improvement and prolong their life or have a better quality of life.”
Deb and Samantha viewing an "improved" followup Wellness Score on a patient. Page 22 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
For more information, you may contact Eastland Chiropractic & Lifestyle Center at 309-662-8418 or visit www.eastlandchiro.com. They are a family-oriented practice with over 25 years of service located at 2406 E. Washington St. in Bloomington.
healthy kids
Does Your Child Have Allergies or a Common Cold? By Karri Eimer, CCRC, Research Manager, Sneeze, Wheeze, & Itch Associates, LLC • Mouth breathing: Children often breathe through their mouth as they have trouble breathing through their nose • Allergy nose crease: a clear sign of constant and frequent rubbing of the nose is the line that is formed at the bridge of the nose.
A
llergies and the common cold can share many of the same symptoms. How do you distinguish between the two? Children with signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis commonly have one or more of the following symptoms: • Runny nose: Allergic nasal discharge is normally clear • Sneezing: Colds can cause sneezing; however, it is much more evident in patients with allergies • Red, itchy, watery eyes: Usual in allergies, not as frequent in common cold • Allergic shiners: Dark circles under the eyes, normally caused by congestion
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Symptoms of a common cold normally resolve within 7 to 10 days of onset; however, allergy symptoms last typically longer than 10 days. Allergic Rhinitis contributes to your child’s behavior. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis can result in poor sleep due to runny nose and mouth breathing, problems at school due to lack of sleep, and an increased number of missed days at school An allergy is a trigger within your child’s immune system. When their body tries to get rid of the allergen exposure, they may experience symptoms of sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, and possible mouth breathing. There are two distinct type of allergic rhinitis: seasonal and perennial. Seasonal allergies are associated with the rise in the pollen count. In Central Illinois, we have extensive tree and grass pollen from early spring to late summer. The most common pollen in our area is ragweed, which releases pollen in the late summer. Perennial allergies are indoor allergens, i.e. animals, dust mite, and mold spores. These allergens are a daily trigger with continuous exposure. If you think that your child might have allergies, be sure to see a specialist who can determine the cause of the symptoms. Sneeze, Wheeze, & Itch Associates is currently scheduling prescreen appointments for children 4 to 11 years of age for skin testing at no charge. For more information, contact them at 309-452-0995 or www.asthma2.com.
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temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)
Is Your Jaw Giving You a Headache? Submitted by Illinois Institute of Dental Sleep Medicine
I
f you have a headache, your first reaction may be the medicine cabinet for pain relief or a visit to the doctor. However, if the problem persists, it might be something you should mention to your dentist as the cause may actually lie in your mouth. Dental treatments for headaches are highly effective and are beginning to gain credibility within medical circles. So much credibility, in fact, that one of the nation's largest headache groups recently recognized dentists as having a role in the diagnosis and treatment of people with chronic headaches. Dr. Tara Griffin of the Illinois Institute of Dental Sleep Medicine has seen a significant percentage of her patients benefit from a dental treatment for their headaches. “I have many patients who come to me complaining of headaches, jaw, and facial pain as well as pain in the ears, never realizing that their pain was caused by a misalignment in their jaw,” says Griffin. Tension Headaches Can be Linked to Jaw It is believed that 45 million Americans have disabling, chronic headaches, and the economic costs due to job absenteeism, lost production, and medical expenses are estimated to be as high as $50 billion annually. Approximately 35 million also suffer from jaw joint problems known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), caused by an imbalanced bite. When your teeth are not in proper relation to each other and to your jaw joints, the jaw automatically shifts to a new position in an attempt to compensate for the misalignment. Even what looks like good bite could be at the expense of putting pressure on the jaw joints which causes pressure to be put on the nerves, muscles, and blood vessels. “If you suffer from continual headaches or migraines, pain behind your eyes, jaw clenching or teeth grinding, clicking or popping jaw joints, dizziness, earaches, sinus pain, or pain in the neck or shoulders, you should consider visiting your dentist, as well as a doctor, as soon as possible,” says Griffin. Many people have imperfect bite yet never show symptoms as they adjust to their problem. For those who do suffer, teeth and gums may be affected, and instead of headaches, you may encounter broken teeth, fillings, loose teeth, and toothache with no apparent cause. If you have any of these problems, you should see a dentist right away. Patients suffering from these symptoms usually consult their primary care physician first, and then are referred on to an ENT or neurologist depending upon their symptoms. If the symptoms persist the specialists may then refer them on to a dentist to rule out jaw problems associated with TMD. More and more physicians are realizing the benefits of a dental treatment for TMD and related headaches. Treatment Options for TMD-related Headaches A custom fitted mouth appliance can help many headache sufferers. These non-invasive orthopedic appliances called splints or orthotics are refined and adjusted to eliminate bite disharmony and Page 24 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
pain while repositioning the jaw and relaxing the muscles. While the orthotic will temporarily stabilize the jaw, permanent stabilization may be necessary. Options may include bite adjustments, orthodontics, or crown or bridges on affected teeth. Dr. Tara Griffin offers comprehensive diagnosis and conservative treatment of TMJ disorders (TMD), head and facial pain, bruxism and bite-related problems as well as management of sleep-related breathing disorders, such as snoring and sleep apnea, with oral appliance therapy. To contact Dr. Griffin, please call 309-726-4064 or visit taragriffindmd.com.
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healthcare law
Will the System Work? By Edward W. Pegg, III, MD
W
e don’t yet know all the ramifications of the recently passed Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPASA)—otherwise known as “Obamacare”—but we do know that health care in our country is undergoing tremendous change that will affect every single American. My previous articles offered some insight as to why our country needs a new way of handling health care, why our government took action, and the effect on Medicaid patients. Let’s continue our discussion of some of the hidden costs of “affordable” health care, specifically the effect on Medicare patients. To help the system work, it was felt that everyone would need to buy in or have insurance. This resulted in the mandate that stated every U.S. citizen must have health insurance or pay a penalty. The penalty will represent $95 or 1 percent of your income after deductions. This rises to a minimum of $695, or 2.5 percent of your income after deductions by 2016. This means that a young person who is making $50,000 would have to pay up to a $1,250 penalty versus Page 26 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
insurance plan premiums around $5,000. Many experts believe that many young or otherwise healthy people will pay the penalty rather than pay the additional cost of health care that they are not using. There is no down side with this line of reasoning because the healthy person can always get insurance once they find out they have a problem. In the past, they would have been ineligible to have this covered, as it would be a pre-existing condition. This is now illegal under the new law. This gives them even more reason not to buy insurance until they absolutely need it. To have a child under the age of 26 placed on their parents’ health insurance plan, the Department of Health and Human Services reports that there would be an average additional cost of $3,400 per child. This additional cost has to be absorbed by the employer funding the employee benefits. Experts predict that employers will simply stop offering family plans to avoid additional costs. Dependents will then have to seek insurance elsewhere. As a result of these changes, the union-administered health insurance funds are already dropping
dependent coverage on 30,000 of their employees. Because of the "preexisting condition" clause, many insurers are no longer offering health insurance plans to children. In 20 states already, this type of coverage is no longer offered. Colleges are also being forced to drop student health plans because the increased coverage required would increase premiums up to 1000 percent. The proponents of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act have criticized others for trying to destroy Medicare and indicate that PPASA will have it remain intact. This is not the case. Some of the funds for the new spending will be through cuts in Medicare Advantage, a slowing in the growth of the Medicare provider payments, reducing Medicare and Medicaid drug reimbursement, and a general statement of cutting other Medicare and Medicaid spending. If this does come to fruition, Medicare patients will find themselves being denied coverage for many medical conditions as well as having a harder time finding a physician. The hospitals and ambulatory services will also likely develop long waits similar to Canada. This has been common practice in Canada for a number of years. I know a Canadian who had been told by his doctor that his headaches may be related to a tumor but it would be three months before he could get an MRI. We had it done for him within a week. This type of delay would likely happen in the U.S. The cost savings would also include a 30 percent reduction in Medicare reimbursement to physicians. If this were to go into effect, this would reduce reimbursement down to approximately what was described last month for Medicaid. These dollar amounts would be so low that it would be difficult for a physician to keep his doors open, especially if he has a large Medicare practice. This could include certain fields such as cardiology, where most of their practice consists of the elderly.
Sarah Palin may have been melodramatic in the use of the term "death panels" to describe the future of Medicare, but the point she is making is correct. We will begin to see tighter control over what will or will not be allowed for Medicare patients. Already, a new Independent Payment Advisory Board is being set up which will consist of 15 non-medical people who will make determinations on procedures that will be allowed for Medicare patients. This board will be autonomous and will not answer to anyone, nor can they be terminated—not even by congress. Most likely, some costly procedures that would save a life will be withheld because of the expense. This is already practiced in other countries. A local retired physician who did locum tenens in New Zealand had seen a 74-year-old woman who was otherwise spry and in good health. She had an abdominal aneurysm that had a high risk of rupture within the year. He was quite shocked to see the surgeon tell her that she would not be able to have the surgery because of her age. In the U.S., at this time, she would have had surgery the same week. As limited funds are fought over for education, defense, and other needs, monies will begin to dry up, and the list of procedures or treatments that are restricted will grow. Procedures that are more expensive will be first, such as hip replacements, heart surgery, and kidney transplants. Rationing of medications has already begun. I think there is a solution to the healthcare crisis, but having government at the helm is not the answer. Dr. Pegg is a neurologist who has been practicing in the Bloomington/Normal area for 30 years. If you missed last month’s article, contact Cheryl Eash at 309-664-2524.
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prostate health
“You Can’t Have One Without an Erection—Can You?” Fourth in a series of excerpts from “Making Love Again” The subject matter of this book is of a personal and explicit nature, and may not be suitable for younger or ultra-conservative readers. By Virginia and Keith Laken
Laptop Notes, May 1, 1995 Three months since my surgery. Three months without sex. I’ve never gone this long before, and I don’t want to go much longer. I should be seeing some sign by now! At first I wasn’t thinking about sex much, but this last month I’ve been thinking about it a lot and nothing is happening.I can’t come on to Gin when I can’t even achieve an erection. It would be too humiliating.
Journal Entry, May 3, 1995 We haven’t made love again since that second night home from the hospital. But that’s all right, I can wait. Keith’s getting restless, though. A few times he’s hinted, but I’ve put him off. I want to wait until he can enjoy himself too. Anyway, it shouldn’t be too much longer before we see some signs of recovery. In early May, we went together to Mayo for Keith’s three-month check up. Dr. Barrett was pleased with his progress, and was very reassuring. Dr. Barrett asked the standard doctor phrase: “Do you have any questions?” Keith sat taller in his chair. “Only one,” he said, squaring his shoulders. “When can I start having sex again?” “Whenever you feel up to it,” he replied. Almost as an after thought, he added, “And you do know you can experience an orgasm without having an erection don’t you?” Keith nodded confidently. “Sure.” After the appointment I was anxious to find a place we could be alone, so I could pump Keith for answers to the many questions I now had. “Hon, what made you ask Dr. Barrett about having sex?” I asked expectantly. “Has something happened to make you think you’re ready?” “Well no…the question I had wasn’t really whether it was all right for us to have sex, but when we could expect it to be possible.” Page 28 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
“Well, then…how about this ‘orgasm without an erection’ idea? Did you know you could do that?” “I’ve never heard of such a thing, Gin. I don’t know where this guy’s coming from! You can’t have sex without getting an erection. That’s where your desire comes from. I don’t know why he said that. A few days after our appointment, Steven phoned and asked if we could arrange to take some time off and bring him a few things he’d left at home. Keith and I jumped at the chance.
Journal Entry, May 5, 1995 I’ve made up my mind I’m going to try to end our abstinence on this trip. I’m going to test Dr. Barrett’s idea. I feel a little shy, though. I’ve never been very good about taking the lead
role. I’ve always let Keith do that. But now things are different. I have to do something. I’m thinking of it kind of like doing more nursing…the final stage of helping Keith get better. I’m sure once he realizes he can have orgasms again, his doubts about being sexually capable will disappear, and he’ll relax and feel good about himself. And once that happens, his erections will quickly follow. The only question is whether this will work. What if it doesn’t, I can’t think about that right now. I’ve got to do this and help Keith get back to normal. We spent our first night with my big brother Rodger and sisterin-law Sue. After dinner we played cards, all the while telling jokes and reminiscing happily together. Visiting like this, as we’d done so many times in the past, helped reinforce the feeling that life was going to return to normal. The next morning we left late, did some sightseeing, and stopped early in the afternoon. When we reached our room in the hotel, we unpacked our bags, feeling pleased with the whole trip so far. “Let’s take a quick swim before we change for dinner,” “I suggested, coming across my swimsuit. “Good idea. I sure could use the exercise,” Keith nodded. We played in the pool for a long time, teasing and seducing one another with our glances. When we finally returned to our room, we stripped from our bathing suits and immediately began hugging and kissing.
“Let’s skip dinner,” I urged. Keith eagerly agreed, and we moved to the bed. I pushed Keith lightly back onto his pillow. “Just try to relax,” I coaxed. “Enjoy yourself, and don’t worry about anything.” As the minutes ticked by, I tried all the things that usually turned Keith on. Then, just when my determination began to wane and I was about ready to give up, I noticed a slight increase in Keith’s breathing. Encouraged, I continued. Yes, Keith was getting aroused — even if it was not physically noticeable. In a few minutes, Keith had an orgasm — his first in almost four months. “Thank you, thank you,” Keith uttered emotionally, squeezing me tight. “I was so afraid I’d lost all feeling — that I was sexually dead. But you’ve brought me back to life.” “So it felt the same even without an erection?” I asked curiously. “It was different, especially to begin with. But once I got excited, it was pretty much the same.” Although Keith was unable to achieve an erection, we were awed by the awakening of his body — and rejuvenated by the fact that we were once again enjoying sex. Our hope and optimism came rushing back. We both assumed that Keith’s ability to experience orgasm was an omen of what was to follow. Next month: “I’m Going to Give Myself a Shot Where?” The book Making Love Again: Hope for Couples Facing Loss of Sexual Intimacy is available at Amazon.com and many major book sellers.
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To register, or for a complete list of courses visit: www.heartland.edu/communityEd or call: 309-268-8160 November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 29
men's health
Movember Changing the Face of Men’s Health, One Mustache at a Time By Amy Kennard
I
f things seem to be getting a little hairy around mid-November, don’t worry. It’s for a good cause. Movember is a month-long, hair-raising campaign in which men are invited to throw their razors to the wind and grow mustaches and facial hair for the entire month of November. However, it’s not in honor of laziness, or even football season. It’s to raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate and testicular cancer initiatives. Whose hair-brained idea was this? Credit our friends down under. Back in 2003, a couple of Australian mates were waxing nostalgic for their moustaches of old. Together, they decided to bring the look back, got together some friends, and decided to rename November “Movember”. In 2004, the group was officially established and recognized and began their affiliation with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. In 2007, Movember partnered with the United States and the Prostate Cancer Foundation as well as Canada, the UK and Spain. To date, Movember is celebrated in 15 countries and has raised more than $126 million for men’s health worldwide. According to Movember.com, the official U.S. Movember website, their goals are: • T o fund survivorship initiatives that provide the information and support for men and their families affected by prostate and other Page 30 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
male cancers that helps them make informed decisions and improves their quality of life. • To significantly increase the understanding of the health risk that men face and encourage men to act on that knowledge through our annual campaign and funded programs. • T o fund catalytic research and clinical trials infrastructure that leads to significantly improved diagnostic and prognostic tests and treatments to reduce the burden of prostate cancer. • To fund research that helps to inform health policy and knowledge translation that accelerates improved health outcomes for men. Becoming a Mo These fearless Movember participants are known as Mo Bros, or simply Mos for short. (Women as supporters are considered Mo Sistas.) With their grizzled, stubby faces, Mos serve as walking advertisements for the cause for 30 days, propelled by Movember fundraisers, parties, and promotions all over the United States. One such promotion is happening for the first time at Brad Barker Honda in Bloomington. Wendy Liming coordinated the event and will have a sales person and a service person competing for the dubious distinction of “best ‘stache.” In fact, people can vote on which Mo Bro they predict will have the most facial hair by the end of the month. In addition, for every vehicle or set of
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tires purchased in the month of November, Brad Barker Honda will make a $5 donation in your name to Prostate Cancer Research. In all seriousness, Wendy cited the advantages of such an eclectic event by saying, “The pros of anything that raises funds and awareness for cancer is obvious. But aside from opening up discussion about prostate cancer, a bunch of guys cultivating mustaches certainly gives people around the office something to talk about. It's good for office gossip, camaraderie, and not shaving can save these guys a few precious minutes getting ready in the morning.” “Mo” money for charities! The Honda dealership commits to one charity promotion each month. “Usually they’re local charities like Wishbone Canine Rescue, Operation Santa, or Home Sweet Home Mission,” says Wendy, “but twice a year we raise money for a national charity— breast cancer being one and the other Movember.” She adds, “I think that men's health issues and things like prostate cancer are sometimes a little ignored or unspoken, so Movember probably helps get those things out in front of the public a little bit more.” Movember offers national prizes for registered participants including “Team Mo” teams who raise the most money, Brushes with Fame (for the best photo of a Mo and someone famous), Man of Movember (for the ultimate moustache), as well as The Lame Mo (to the “Facial Folically Challenged” Mo). To see other Movember events happening in and around Bloomington/Normal as well as nationwide, visit the Movember website at www.movember.com. For more information, you may contact Wendy Liming at Brad Barker Honda, 663-9591 or www.bradbarkerhonda.com. They are located at 1602 G. E. Road in Bloomington. ‘Like’ them on Facebook for weekly ‘Mo Bro’ updates!
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November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 31
heart attacks and strokes
Why Every Second Counts By Jamie Peel, OSF St. Joseph Medical Center
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ialing 9-1-1 is a call you never want to make; however, when it comes to heart attacks and strokes, every second counts. People commonly have several reasons for not calling 9-1-1. They may not want to bother first responders, they are close enough to drive themselves to a hospital, or may not think they need immediate medical attention, and the list goes on. But, calling 9-1-1 instead of driving yourself, or a loved one, to a nearby emergency department can be the difference between life and death. Quick treatment can help limit damage to the brain or heart and increase the chance of a full recovery. Your Care Begins with a Call Your care truly does begin with a call. It is imperative to call 9-1-1 when you or a loved one are experiencing heart attack or stroke symptoms. When the call is made, an Emergency Medical Dispatcher will provide pre-arrival instructions until the first responders arrive and gather information about symptoms. Paramedics are trained with lifesaving techniques they can use if needed. With heart attacks, if the heart stops, they are trained to revive you. With strokes, paramedics know ahead of time which hospitals can care for stroke patients. Not all hospitals have the technology or capability to treat strokes and certain types of heart attacks. According to the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association, 50 percent of people drive themselves to the hospital when heart attack and stroke symptoms are present. Nationally and locally, the average time from arrival to treatment is significantly reduced by ambulance. Once first responders have assessed the patient, they contact the hospital emergency department informing them of a possible heart attack or stroke patient. While in route to the hospital, paramedics alert medical staff to begin preparation for arrival, thus saving time. They can arrange medical equipment, specific treatment rooms or labs, and specialists and staff are brought together. If someone drives on their own, the hospital has no prior information on the patient, unlike arriving by ambulance. Hospital staff will then need to Page 32 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
assess the patient and determine if a heart attack or stroke is present, before treatment can begin. By driving, you place yourself and others at risk if you were to lose consciousness. Know the Symptoms Time is muscle, and time is brain. As vital as it is to call 9-1-1, it is equally important to know the symptoms of heart attacks and strokes. Brain and heart damage can begin within minutes. • Stroke Symptoms: The National Stroke Association uses the acronym F.A.S.T. to help people remember four important stroke symptoms. “F” is for face. Stroke victims often show signs of facial drooping or an uneven smile. “A” stands for arm. Victims tend to feel weakness or numbness in one or both of their arms. “S” is for speech. People who suffer a stroke commonly slur their speech, or have difficulty understanding others. “T” stands for time. It is crucial to call 9-1-1 immediately. • Heart Attack Symptoms: Heart attack symptoms may include discomfort in the chest, also described as “an elephant on the chest.” According to the American Heart Association, it can feel like pressure, squeezing, or pain. Symptoms may also include discomfort in the arms, back, stomach, or jaw; or shortness of breath. However, for women, heart attack symptoms are typically less noticeable. Sometimes, women will have shortness of breath and feel fatigued. Other signs include flu-like symptoms, including vomiting and nausea, feeling light-headed or dizzy, and pain in the jaw, shoulder and back. Many women say they “just didn’t feel right.” For more information on the importance of calling 9-1-1 when heart attack or stroke symptoms are present, please call Jennifer Sedbrook, OSF Cardiovascular Service Line Leader, at 309-665-5709 or Corey Silver, OSF Neuroscience Line Leader at 309-665-4904, or visit www.osfstjoseph.org.
Pediatric Asthma Research Study ST
H M A R ESE
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PE D IAT RI
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Does your child have asthma?
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Children may qualify if they: • Are 4 to11 years of age • Have had asthma for at least six months • Have had asthma bad enough to see a doctor in the last 12 months There are other study requirements that will determine whether your child may participate in this clinical research study. • There is no placebo (sugar pill) in this clinical research study. • There will be no blood draws (no needles) during this clinical research study. • Qualified study participants will receive asthma medication at no charge. • Health insurance is not needed to participate. • Reimbursement for time and travel may be provided.
To see if you qualify, call:
ToS.see you qualify, call: Anjuli Nayak,ifMD Nicholas Nayak, MD (SiteA. Contact Name and Number) Phoebe B. Panopio, MD Margaret M. Lowery, MD Dana L. Dalbak, PA-C
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November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 33
senior living
When Home Sweet Home Isn’t By Holly Hall, Meadows at Mercy Creek
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ost older adults would like to stay in their own home for the rest of their lives. In fact, 89 percent of those polled (AARP) said that is what they want. Being in familiar surroundings, among family and friends is certainly appealing and while you are still healthy and active, there is generally no reason to consider moving—or is there? People can now reasonably expect to live into their 80s, 90s and beyond. The reality is that the aging process will cause a decline in mobility, strength, balance, vision, and hearing to some degree. There is also a far greater chance of accidental injury and illness—both physical and mental. Let’s be pro-active instead of reactive. Let’s think about what happens when you are unsteady going up or down the stairs? What Page 34 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
happens when it becomes difficult to drive yourself? How will you feel when you increasingly have to depend on other people to do things for you that you used to be able to do yourself—mow the grass, shovel the drive, fix your own meals? What will you do if a spouse dies or a fall, stroke, or heart attack suddenly makes it so you cannot live in your home? It makes sense to think ahead and start considering various options as you contemplate how and where you would like to live as you grow older. Following are some of the most important things to consider. • Physical health: Do you have family nearby that can help in an emergency? If you should require a hospital stay, is there someone that can take care of you when you get home? How about exercise?
• Mental health: Do not underestimate the importance of social activities and friends. As you get older, your friends may not be around anymore or they may not be able to do the activities that you once enjoyed doing. With the winter months ahead, it can be hard to get outside and many seniors find themselves spending day after day doing little more than watching TV, rather than engaging in hobbies or exploring new activities and experiences. • Everyday tasks: Are ordinary chores such as vacuuming, doing laundry, raking leaves, taking out the garbage, reaching things up high etc. becoming a challenge? While you can hire someone to do these things, they won’t be done on your schedule. • Safety: Do you feel safe in your home, or do you worry about crime or vandalism—especially if your neighborhood has changed or you live in a rural area? • Driving: When you no longer feel comfortable behind the wheel, if you’ve had some “close calls”, if your vision becomes impaired— how will you get places? Most seniors do not want to be a burden to family and friends and public transportation may or may not be an option. • Meals: Many health problems are caused by poor nutrition. It can be difficult to cook for one or two people and it’s often hard to get to the store for fresh produce and healthy ingredients. Meals are often skipped and the overall diet lacks many important nutrients. • Home modifications: Will you need to make changes to your home for safety reasons? Sometimes very simple changes are all that’s necessary, such as a grab bar in the bathroom. But many homes require extensive remodeling, such as moving a laundry area to the main floor, widening doorways, and halls, or installing ramps in place of stairs.
"The reality is that the aging process will cause a decline in mobility, strength, balance, vision, and hearing to some degree." It’s difficult to think about the possibility of leaving a home that holds memories and treasured possessions, and you may determine that you will be able to age in place. But start thinking about it now, before a crisis happens. No one wants to make such an important decision in a time of stress and you don’t want to face the prospect of leaving your home at the same time that you’re facing a health emergency. Everyone is different and everyone’s situation is different, but it’s always wise to be in planning mode rather than panic mode. For more information about senior living, you may contact Holly Hall at Meadows at Mercy Creek, 309-268-1501. Mercy Creek is located at 1501 Mercy Creek Drive in Normal (near the intersection of Raab Road and Towanda-Barnes Road). Mercy Creek offers apartment homes with a full array of services and amenities and independent living villa homes.
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November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 35
healthy feet
Thanksgiving
Related More to Feet than You Think! By Sam Fowler, PMAC, Heartland Foot & Ankle Associates
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s a foot care specialist, I tend to relate almost all things to podiatry. Ask my husband—he can vouch as to how I somehow bring “feet” into our everyday conversations. Thanksgiving is no exception to my “obsession.” Those who do not deal with feet all day, every day, may not realize what Thanksgiving has to do with your feet. No worries, I have done this for you! Busiest Travel Season: Even movies have illustrated how Thanksgiving is the busiest travel time of the year. If you suffer from heel pain, remember this tip when traveling: take frequent breaks to walk and stretch your toes up to your nose. This prevents the plantar fascia from tightening up, which causes pain. Night splints also work to stretch out the plantar fascia, even while traveling. You can also bring your foot roller in the car or on the plane or train to massage away that foot pain! Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: On November 27, 1924, the first Macy’s Christmas Parade (now called the Thanksgiving Day Parade) stepped off from Convent Avenue and 145th Street in New York City. Besides hosting the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, New York is also one of the eight states that is home to one of the nine podiatry colleges in the U.S., the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. Black Friday: I can’t talk about Thanksgiving without mentioning one of my favorite events—Black Friday! Black Friday, possibly the largest shopping day of the year, causes multiple injuries, especially to the feet. Just last year we had one emergency come in after a Black Friday shopping accident and multiple foot pain complaints on Saturday after Page 36 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
everyone’s shopping extravaganza the day before. My Black Friday crew mans up by wearing Aetrex copper sole socks to keep our feet warm, and PowerStep inserts or custom orthotics to outlast, out run, and out shop our competitor shoppers. Football: Football is an all American sport, and families across the country watch this sport while enjoying a feast on Thanksgiving Day. If you just glance at our blog you will see that football is filled with foot and ankle injuries! Turkey: The icon of Thanksgiving is the turkey. Children learn how to draw a turkey from the outline of their hand. Well did you know that a turkey only has four “toes” while we humans usually have five? If a person has extra digits, that condition is called “polydactyly.” Each toe bone, or digit, has three separate bones, the phalanges. The one exception is the hallux, or big toe, which only has two phalanges. Give Thanks To No Foot Pain! Anyone who has been a patient in this office knows how painful foot aches can be! When your foot hurts, everything hurts. So, this Thanksgiving make sure you give thanks to no foot pain! If you suffer from foot or ankle pain, contact Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates at 309-661-9975 or by visiting www.HeartlandFootAndAnkle.com. With Saturday and evening appointments, Heartland Foot and Ankle makes seeing the doctor quick and easy—even during the holiday season!
women's health
Hormonal Imbalance By Dr. Dele Ogunleye, MD, Advanced Women’s Healthcare
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olycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in women of reproductive age that is caused by an abnormal balance of hormones produced by the ovaries. This abnormal balance of hormones is both a cause and effect of an interplay of different changes in the body, which leads to significant short and long-term consequences. The health implications are huge and many women are not aware of this condition. Even though PCOS is slightly complicated, I hope this article will shed more light on this topic. PCOS is diagnosed by the presence of two out of three of the following: 1. Irregular menstrual periods caused by decreased ovulation. In the reproductive period, one of the main functions of the ovaries is to release an egg monthly. This facilitates the desire of many women to get pregnant when they are ready. In polycystic ovarian disease, ovulation is either decreased or comes to an absolute stop. This lack of ovulation manifests as irregular or heavy periods and difficulty with getting pregnant. Women with PCOS usually have less than eight periods a year. 2. Elevated male type hormones. All women produce “male-type” hormones like Testosterone from their ovaries and other organs. In women with PCOS, for many different reasons, these hormones are produced at higher than normal levels. This can be determined by evaluating the symptoms or by a blood test. The characteristic symptoms include acne and increased hair growth, sometimes on the face, chest, and abdomen. A less common symptom may be seen as male type baldness. 3. Characteristic ovaries on pelvic ultrasound. Polycystic ovarian syndrome gets its name from the characteristic appearance of the ovaries on ultrasound examination. “Polycystic” means many cysts on the ovary and these cysts are usually arranged on the ovary like a pearl necklace or like chocolate chips in a cookie. Some women have up to 10-12 cysts on each ovary, which are usually small, not the size that will cause pain. PCOS is known to affect about 8-10 percent of women of reproductive age (between 18 and 45). Some experts believe it may be more prevalent because the symptoms vary among different women and therefore, it may be underreported. There is not a known cause of PCOS, but it is associated with elevated insulin levels. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate glucose levels. Increasing levels of Insulin are required to maintain normal glucose in the blood. This term known as “Insulin resistance” is associated with changes in women’s metabolism that leads to difficulties with weight control and obesity and is a significant risk factor for diabetes later in life. Insulin resistance can develop in both obese women and those of normal BMI. Many studies have found that up to 50 percent of women with PCOS have obesity. Weight gain is usually gradual. However, many women have PCOS and have a normal or low BMI. Some of the other risks with PCOS include high cholesterol levels and sleep apnea, a condition where there are brief spells when breathing stops during sleep. This leads to daytime sleepiness and fatigue.
The treatment for PCOS depends on the symptoms manifested. The following are some examples. • Weight loss and diet is one of the most effective ways of managing PCOS. Many overweight women with PCOS who lose 5-10 percent of their body weight notice that their periods become regular. • Oral contraceptives are important for women who have irregular or heavy periods and for those that need contraception. There are also some contraceptives that contain medications that antagonize maletype hormones and this is beneficial for patients who have symptoms like excessive hair growth or acne. • Metformin is a medication has been traditionally used for diabetes but has been shown to be effective in treating women who have PCOS. It is known to increase the body cells more sensitive to insulin. It has been shown to help with weight loss in addition to diet and exercise in patients that are obese. • Infertility: Women who have difficulties getting pregnant because of PCOS usually will need stimulation of their ovaries to restart the release of eggs to facilitate pregnancy. They have a good chance getting pregnant if they have no other causes for infertility. • Other treatment options including laser hair removal for women who have excessive hair growth as an adjunct to other treatments. While there is not a cure for PCOS, it can be managed to prevent serious problems. For more information on PCOS or any women’s health issue, you may contact Dr. Ogunleye at 309-531-3012. Dr. Ogunleye has recently opened his new practice, Advanced Women’s Healthcare, located at 2111 East Oakland Ave (next to the Jewel-Osco Plaza). He welcomes new patients as well as former patients. November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 37
heart health
Facing Down Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Youth By Eric Alvin, Advocate BroMenn Medical Center
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ust a few months ago, students and faculty at Hall High School in Spring Valley, Illinois were stunned by the sudden cardiac death of a student football player who died about 20 minutes into a Wednesday night practice. Each week in the United States, sudden cardiac death claims the lives of more than 30 young adults. What is sudden cardiac arrest? There are two main functioning cycles in the heart: the pumping cycle and the electrical cycle. Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the electrical cycle of the heart suddenly stops. “In children or young adults, sudden cardiac arrest is typically caused by an undiagnosed hereditary defect,” says Christie Rocke, RN, BSN, a nurse with the Advocate BroMenn Medical Center Community Wellness team. “This defect can trigger an irregular heart rhythm that then causes the cardiac arrest. It can also be caused by a sudden blow to the chest—something that can occur in many contact sports.” Many children and young adults with hereditary heart defects may not exhibit any warning signs. Most of these genetic abnormalities, both structural and electrical, cannot be diagnosed with a stethoscope alone and are not caught during normal pre-participation sports physicals. These defects can include: • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: An inherited condition in which a portion of the heart muscle has thickened with no obvious cause • Long QT syndrome: A rare inborn heart disorder that prompts arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat • Brugada syndrome and Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome: Genetic conditions that disrupt the heart’s electrical system Preventing sudden cardiac arrest “Because of the lack of obvious external symptoms, detecting these genetic abnormalities can be a challenge,” says Rocke. “We recommend that parents have their children undergo a screening electrocardiogram, especially if they are athletes or if they have a family history of heart defects.” “An electrocardiogram, or EKG, can detect certain serious heart conditions by recording the electrical activity of the heart,” says Dr. James McCriskin, a cardiologist with Advocate Medical Group – Illinois Heart & Lung Associates. An EKG is able to detect approximately 60 Page 38 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
percent of the abnormalities from these heart conditions that a stethoscope cannot. Completely painless, an EKG is obtained by attaching electrodes with slightly sticky backing to the skin of the chest, arms, and legs. The wires from the EKG machine are then connected to each of the electrodes. The child lies quietly for several minutes while the EKG is captured. The EKG, in tandem with a medical evaluation from a physician can identify the presence of a serious heart condition that could lead to sudden cardiac arrest, Dr. McCriskin says. “The EKG screening is not foolproof,” Rocke cautions. “There are some conditions that cannot be detected with an EKG—but until further testing is available this is the best tool to detect those at risk.” She adds that the screenings can result in approximately two percent of the tests being falsely positive, meaning that the EKG indicates a defect may exist, but further testing shows there is no problem. “We realize that this may cause some anxiety for parents, but we believe that the benefit of this potentially life-saving screening outweighs this concern,” says Rocke. “You need to decide for yourself if this risk is worth it or not.” Advocate for Young Hearts In an effort to help prevent sudden cardiac deaths, Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, through a gift from the Advocate Charitable Foundation, has begun offering Advocate for Young Hearts, a free cardiac screening program for local high school students. The screening consists of an EKG, and may also include a limited echocardiogram to identify students at risk for sudden cardiac death. The screenings will be available to all of the school’s students. “Our first area screening event will be for Central Catholic High School students on Friday, November 16,” says Dr. McCriskin. “We expect to screen about 365 students.” Screenings are being scheduled for other schools over the following weeks and months. For more information and a list of upcoming screening dates, visit www.advocatehealth.com/bromenn/afyh. If you would like to learn more about bringing Advocate for Young Hearts to your child’s high school, contact Christie Rocke at 309-268-2437 or christie.rocke@ advocatehealth.com.
Congratulations to the 2012 Rock Doc Award Winners!
Kevin Khater, M.D.
Nguyet Le-Lindqwister, M.D.
James McGee, M.D
Denise Mammolito, M.D.
Andrew Tsung, M.D.
Join Us Friday, November 9th to recognize these in the Field of Research.
Docs That Rock
For tickets or more information, call (309) 243-3320 or November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 39 visit www.illinoiscancer.com/cure.
grief recovery
When a “Less Than Loved One” Dies
Hopes and Dreams? Healthy Cells magazine is pleased to present another in a series of feature articles on the subject of Grief ❣ Recovery®. The articles are written by Russell P. Friedman, Executive Director, and John W. James, Founder, of The Grief Recovery Institute. Russell and John are co-authors of WHEN CHILDREN GRIEVE - For Adults to Help Children Deal with Death, Divorce, Pet Loss, Moving, and Other Losses - Harper Collins, June, 2001 - & THE GRIEF RECOVERY HANDBOOK - The Action Program For Moving Beyond Death, Divorce, and Other Losses (Harper Perrenial, 1998). The articles combine educational information with answers to commonly asked questions.
L
ast month we talked about grieving and completing our relationships with loved ones who have died. While the death of a loved one is painful, we are often complete with loved ones. That is to say that we have communicated our feelings about them, to them. We believe that they knew how we felt and that we were understood. When a loved one dies we may be overwhelmed with conflicting feelings, we may feel disoriented and confused, and we may feel robbed of one last chance to say I love you and goodbye. Even though we are often essentially complete when a loved one dies, after the death we usually remember some things that we wish we’d had a chance to say. We need to discover those unsaid things and say them. The appropriate methods for communicating the unsaid things are detailed in The Grief ❣ Recovery® Handbook. What happens when a “less than loved one” dies — perhaps a parent or a sibling, someone with whom we should have had a more loving relationship? We are almost always incomplete when a less than loved one dies. Almost always we are left with the awareness that our hopes and dreams of someday having the relationship become pleasant and happy have ended. Even if our hope is simply not to be tormented anymore, the death often exaggerates the torment rather than diminishing it. That is when many of us report being “ruled from the grave.” Many people labor under the misapprehension that once someone has died there is no way they can complete any unfinished emotional business. Gladly, this is not true, or they would have to stay incomplete forever. The process of Grief ❣ Recovery® helps grievers identify and complete the undelivered emotional communications that keep them tied to past painful experiences with people who have died or with relationships that have ended or changed. This process obviously does not require that the person we are incomplete with be a living or willing participant. Often our attempts to communicate with our “less than loved ones” failed, not because of our unwillingness, but because the other person was unable to listen to or talk about the things that we wanted and needed to talk about. Quite often our attempts to communicate started new and larger battles which may have been added to our list of unfinished or incomplete emotional events with them. Even after they have died, Page 40 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
as we replay the events, we keep winding up hurt and helpless. We do not know how to end the vicious cycle. We may attempt to NOT think about them, but then a reminder will appear, outside of our control. We may see someone in the mall who looks like them, or a car similar to the one they drove. These reminders will often send us back into the pain caused by the incomplete emotional relationship. Most of you will realize that it is not possible to eliminate someone from your memory. You most assuredly cannot control the stimuli that cause you to remember a less than loved one. Even attempts at total isolation rarely work, as even dreams can rekindle painful memories. When a “less than loved one” dies we are often left with an extremely lopsided memory picture, almost exclusively negative. It seems as if we have become the victim of these painful, negative memory pictures. We are also confused by our relationship to the painful memories that keep recurring. We must grieve and complete our relationship to the person as well as to our relationship with the pain we generate when we think about or are reminded of the person. And, we must grieve and complete our unmet hopes and dreams and expectations. You must become willing to re-experience some of the painful events, and finally communicate what you would have said had you been allowed to, or if you had known how. It may seem frightening to root around where there has been so much pain. Perhaps it would be more helpful to be frightened of the alternative, a life of restriction and limitation caused by staying incomplete. The alternative is to keep the pain forever, by trying NOT to remember, and by trying to avoid any circumstances or events that remind you of that person. Many people today talk of giving away their power. There is no clearer or more painful example of that then to have your life’s actions and reactions ruled by the painful memories of someone who is no longer here.
“The process of Grief ❣ Recovery® helps grievers identify and complete the undelivered emotional communications that keep them tied to past painful experiences with people who have died or with relationships that have ended or changed.” Question: The above article relates to a less than loved one who has died. What about less than loved ones who are still living? Answer: The exact same principles apply when the “less than loved one” is still living. In fact, it is probably even more essential that you complete your part of that relationship as soon as you can. If not, you may live in constant fear of any kind of interaction with or reminders of that living person. Completion of your part of a relationship with a living person does not imply that the other person will or should change. Most likely they will continue to be just who and how they are. The difference is that you will be able to live a life of meaning and value, not limited by painful reminders that a relationship did not live up to hopes, promises, dreams or expectations. For information visit www.griefrecoverymethod.com.
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community service
Faith in Action By Linda Bollivar, Director, and Jessica Eller, ISU Journalism Intern.
A
re you a senior citizen who needs help getting to your medical appointments? Are you a community member looking for a way to help your neighbor? Getting connected with Faith in Action (FIA) is a great way for the whole community to get involved. Whether you are looking for a way to give back, or you have a need for support, Faith in Action can be the answer. Faith in Action is a non-profit ministry that serves Bloomington-Normal by giving back to its seniors and their caregivers. Our mission is to provide spiritual, physical, and emotional support to seniors over 60 years of age, and their caregivers, to maintain independence, dignity, and improved quality of life. We accomplish this through an interfaith network of volunteers, congregations, and community organizations. We coordinate volunteers to provide services to seniors, including transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping, friendly visits, reassuring phone calls, and light home maintenance. The services we provide for our care receivers are often vital to their survival. Albert C. is a care receiver who depends on our services for transportation to dialysis procedures three times per week. “The people at Faith in Action are wonderful. I have never seen so many people that are nice and kind in one spot,” Albert said. Our volunteers have a unique opportunity to develop relationships with the care receivers, and it can be a great experience for them as well. Volunteer Donna M. joined FIA in the fall of 2011. She was very surprised to find a name she recognized from her work at St. Joseph Hospital 60 years ago. It was none other than Albert C. “I am so thankful and so grateful for the chance that I have been given to reconnect to Albert. There are no words to describe how that makes me feel. Faith in Action is a gift from God, and an answered prayer,” Donna M. said. Now Donna takes Albert to dialysis as often as she can, and the two often enjoy a cup of coffee at a local restaurant on the way home. Opportunities for FIA volunteers include: transportation, friendly visits or phone calls, office help, joining committees, and assisting with special events. Volunteers are encouraged to utilize their skills, talents, and abilities to serve others. Seniors looking to utilize FIA services can benefit from the same services. There is no charge for any service provided by FIA; additionally, our services are not based on financial need. The goal of FIA is to provide older adults the assistance they need to remain independent in their home, and enhance their quality of life. Transportation provided for our care receivers is primarily for physician and medical related appointments. Other transportation appointments are taken based on volunteer availability. Faith in Action is an interfaith agency, supported by local congregations including Catholic, Protestant, Non-Denominational, and Jewish. They are funded only through donations. Their primary fundraising event will be the Faith in Action Auction Gala on February 9, 2013 at the Parke Hotel. Contact them at 309-827- 7780 or office@bnfia.org for volunteering, services, or to support their ministry. Page 42 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
309.662.2628
2502 E. Empire St. Bloomington, IL 61704
AT MCLEAN COUNTY FOOT & ANKLE (MCFA) our patients range from; infants requiring guidance in their development, to active adolescents undergoing rapid growth, as well as mature adults wishing to maintain an active lifestyle. We treat ailments such as bunions, heel pain, hammer toes, plantar fasciitis, fractures and trauma. Our vast array of TREATMENT OPTIONS are tailored to meet the needs of each individual patient.
“We are dedicated to providing the highest level of foot and ankle services to patients of all ages. Whether you suffer from foot or ankle injury or pain, we’ll work together to find the answers that will bring you relief.” Gerald Paul, DPM, FACFAS and Brian Hamm, DPM, FACFAS
IMPROVING YOUR
HEALTH, LIFE. IMPROVING YOUR
JOSEPH A. NOVOTNY, M.D. MARK J. HANSON, M.D. JEROME W. OAKEY, M.D. JOSEPH B. NORRIS, M.D. NIKHIL K. CHOKSHI, M.D. JOHN G. ATWATER, M.D. CRAIG W. CARMICHAEL, M.D. PAUL R. NAOUR, M.D. GERALD W. PAUL, DPM, FACFAS BRIAN L. HAMM, DPM, FACFAS
309.662.2628
MCLEANCOUNTYORTHOPEDICS.COM
2502 E. EMPIRE ST. BLOOMINGTON, IL 61704 November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 43
the headache detective
Digging for the True Cause Takes Time and Effort By Becky Wiese
H
eadaches severe enough to warrant a visit to the doctor affect millions of people every year. In such cases, the old adage “take two aspirin and call me in the morning” simply doesn’t qualify as a valid treatment option. On the other hand, assuming a debilitating headache is a migraine isn’t always an accurate or helpful strategy either. What, then, is the best course of action? According to Dr. Ben Taimoorazy of Guardian Headache & Pain Management Institute, accurate diagnosis and treatment of severe headaches takes a bit of detective work. “To correctly treat a headache, you must first find the origin of the pain,” he states.
Primary headaches, those caused by neurological disorders, include migraine, tension, and cluster headaches and are often incorrectly diagnosed and treated. Unfortunately, if the cause of the pain isn’t truly due to a chemical or hormonal imbalance in the nervous system, treating it as if it is won’t make the headaches go away. “If a patient comes to our office and has been on proper migraine medication without relief, chances are the condition may not even be a migraine,” says Dr. Taimoorazy. Some secondary headaches (those that involve a structural abnormality or disease) mimic the pain of a migraine or other primary headache, making accurate diagnosis difficult. “If the symptoms are similar, we need Page 44 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
to look at what else can give rise to similar headache pain.” “Before deciding on a treatment strategy, it’s important to rule out the almost 300 other potential causes of headaches,” explains Dr. Taimoorazy. Common secondary causes include hormonal imbalances, injuries to the brain or spine, eye injury or disease, and dental issues. Many of his patients with migraine diagnoses did not have migraine at all, which is why their pain was chronic—the true cause was not being treated. The detective work begins with a complete medical history that should include as much information as possible regarding past illnesses, surgeries, injuries, and anything else that might affect the patient’s physical well-being—including social and vocational information. For example, it helps to know if a person spends most of their workday on the phone and cradles it using the shoulderto-ear method. That information could be a huge clue about what might be causing headache pain. Hormonal problems can cause severe headaches, as can whiplash injuries from years ago. Even the most seemingly insignificant event can be a clue to a current headache problem. “A patient may have had a whiplash injury long ago that has led to arthritis in the cervical spine. This condition can cause headaches that have the same symptoms as migraine,” says Dr. Taimoorazy. Next is a complete physical exam, which includes not only the head and neck, but also an oral exam for TMJ or other dental problems, examination of the 12 cranial nerves, and looking into the patient’s eyes. “A physical examination is not complete unless I’ve done a fundoscopy, which allows me to see what is going on inside the brain and how that might be affecting the body.” The optic disc should have sharp, clear edges; fuzzy edges indicate issues such as hypertension, diabetes, or excessive pressure buildup—in addition to eye problems associated with the optic nerve. If, proverbially speaking, the eyes are the window to the soul, “the back of the eyes is the window to the brain,” says Dr. Taimoorazy. Finally, some additional tests may be necessary, including blood work, examination of the head, neck, and spine utilizing CT scans and MRIs when necessary. When Dr. Taimoorazy puts the information from the exams and history together, he can focus more specifically on the cause of a person’s headache and recommend a course of treatment that will best alleviate the pain. Solving headache mysteries may involve a lot of detective work, but when the end result allows a patient to live without the pain and frustration of chronic headaches, the effort is well worth the process. For more information, you may contact Dr. Benjamin Taimoorazy at Guardian Headache and Pain Management Institute at 309-808-1700 or visit www.GuardianPainInstitute.com. The practice is located at 2203 Eastland Drive, Suite #7, in Bloomington. Dr. Taimoorazy strives to increase awareness and understanding of different types of headaches and other chronic painful conditions and the available diagnostic and therapeutic options for each individual disorder.
scar treatment
An Innovative Approach By Lori Epps, Doug’s Compounding Pharmacy
T
he definition of a scar, is any mark left on the skin after the healing of injured tissue. These injuries to skin tissue may result from trauma such as a burn, injury, or surgery and most everyone at some point in their lives will have an experience resulting in a scar. Some scars can be very unsightly, but most are so small they are barely visible or in locations that are easy to conceal. While scar formation is a natural part of the healing process, there are a number of variables that can affect it, including your age, sex, heredity, and ethnicity. When the skin heals too aggressively for instance, a keloid scar may result. Keloid scars extend beyond the original injury and are often red, pink, or flesh colored. Located over the site of the wound, keloids are often lumpy or ridged, and may itch. While keloids are not usually cause for medical concern they can be unsightly and exposure to the sun may cause the keloid to tan darker than surrounding skin. Hypertrophic scars are similar to keloids but do not extend beyond the boundaries of the original injury site. They are often raised and red in color. If you’ve had severe acne, you may also have the scars to prove it. Acne scarring can range from deep pits to wavelike or angular scars. Treatment for these scars can vary from over the counter products to surgical options, including dermabrasion or laser treatments for more severe scars. According to pharmacist, Doug Higgins, RPh, owner of Doug’s Compounding Pharmacy in Paxton, one of the newest non-surgical treatments is a scar therapy base, PracaSil™-Plus, developed by the Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA). Higgins said PracaSil™-Plus is a topical anhydrous silicone base that combines unique technology and ingredients. Used alone or combined with different actives, he believes it may have great potential for use on many types of scars including acne scars, new scars, keloid scars, surgical scars, and stretch marks. According to PCCA’s literature, PracaSil™-Plus contains Pracaxi oil, which has been used for generations by the indigenous cultures of the Amazon rain forest for treatment of dermatologic conditions including skin spots, acne scars and psoriasis and rosacea. It is also recognized for its potential healing properties. Higgins said PracaSil™-Plus may be compounded with various actives to treat specific types of scars or skin conditions. Typically, the topical medication is applied twice a day to the affected area for a period of 10 to 14 weeks. When asked about insurance, Higgins said patients may be covered depending on their insurance plan and the specific PracaSil™-Plus formulation prescribed. Higgins said the topical scar therapy base shows promise for physicians in many practice areas including dermatology, surgery, family practice, orthopedics, and more. To learn more about compounded medications using PracaSil™-Plus for the treatment of scars, contact Doug Higgins, RPh, owner of Doug's Compounding Pharmacy at 877-642-DOUG (3684) or visit their website at www.dougsrx.com. Established in 2000, Doug's Compounding Pharmacy serves patients throughout the state and is located at 137 N. Market Street in Paxton.
Autumn Savings! OSF Home Care Services helps you and your loved one remain independent at home by offering personal response systems. Our medical alert systems provide an immediate 24-hour connection to professional assistance at the push of a button. Benefits include: • a safety net that provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones. • immediate help during emergencies. • FREE INSTALLATION through November 30 (value of $55). For more information on Personal Response Systems, please call OSF Home Care Services at 800-267-4794.
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November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 45
drive safely
Watch Out for Animals in the Road Submitted by Axel Jimenez, State Farm Agent
T
here's so much to think about when driving: surrounding cars, your speed, pedestrians, and reckless drivers. It hardly seems fair that we have to worry about animals too. But it's a danger we can't ignore. There are about 1.5 million animal-car accidents each year that cause 10,000 injuries, 150 deaths, and an average of $2,500 in property damage. There's no silver bullet to keep large animals like deer, elk, and moose off highways and roads. Some drivers insist that deer whistles work, though the Information Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) says no scientific evidence supports that claim. Studies and field tests show that roadside reflectors do reduce crash frequency somewhat, but as of now there's no foolproof method to keep animals off our roads. What May Help • Stay alert. Pay attention to "deer crossing" signs. Scan down the road and off to each side. Be especially watchful in areas near woods and water. If you see one deer, there are probably several others nearby. • Be especially vigilant during peak season. Though collisions can happen any time of year, fall is peak time for deer-car crashes because it's both hunting and mating seasons, forcing deer to roam outside their normal territory. Page 46 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
• Use headlights smartly. At night, use high-beams when possible to illuminate the road's edges. If you see a deer far ahead, flick the brights on and off multiple times: Deer tend to fixate on headlights, so flashing them may cause the animal to scurry away. • Watch out at mealtime. Pay particular attention at dusk and dawn, when these animals usually venture out to eat. • Brake as necessary. If you think you have time to avoid hitting the animal, reduce speed, tap the brakes to warn drivers behind you, and sound your horn. If there's no vehicle close behind you, brake hard. • Don't swerve. If a collision seems inevitable, don't veer off to avoid the animal. Your risk of injury may be greater if you do. Maintain control of the vehicle. Report the accident to the police and your insurance company. • Always obey speed limits and wear seat belts. For more information you may contact Axel Jimenez State Farm Agency, 1520 E. College Ave, Suite E, Normal, IL 61761, 309-451FARM (3276) or Axel@axelismyagent.com
VISIT US
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2,500 sq. foot Therapy Department Living Skills Retraining Studio Private Medicare Suites State-of-the-Art Therapy Equipment
Heritage HealtH, Bloomington 827-8004 HeritageOfCare.com/bloomington November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 47
social dance
Want to Get Smarter? Go Dancing! By Cathy Hempstead, Heartland Community College
W
e hear so much great advice from healthcare providers: eat more veggies, lower sodium intake, increase fiber, reduce stress, walk for 30 minutes at least three times a week, incorporate strength training, and…take up ballroom dancing? Social dancing offers many health benefits and is a wonderful weight bearing exercise, burning 200-400 calories an hour, which is comparable to swimming or cycling. Frequent dancing results in better-toned muscles; stronger bones, particularly in the legs and hips; increased stamina and flexibility and improved posture as dancers strive for an elegant appearance. Energetic dancing for 30 minutes or more several times a week can decrease blood pressure and cholesterol, and improve circulation, while reducing stress and increasing serotonin, which increases our sense of well-being. There are social benefits too. Many dance students find they develop new friendships and supportive relationships, and experience increased self-esteem and a new sense of confidence from dancing gracefully around the room. Recent studies have proven significant mental health benefits from social dancing. The Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City conducted a 21-year study of senior citizens, measuring the effect of cognitive recreational activities on mental acuity. While various activities had a measurable positive impact in decreasing the risk of dementia, frequent dancing yielded an impressive 76 percent reduction in the risk of dementia. The typical aging process results in brain cells dying and synapses weakening, so challenging ourselves to learn and practice new skills and take innovative approaches to problem solving apparently helps to rebuild those neural paths. Making splitPage 48 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
second, informed decisions increases our mental acuity. Dancing requires constant mental challenges of simultaneously interpreting the music, reacting to the leads and follows of a partner, remembering and executing simple (or more complicated) footwork, sways, turns, rhythm changes and body action, and split-second decisions as we negotiate a crowded dance floor. Want to get smarter? Go dancing! The popularity of ballroom dancing has increased dramatically among 18 to 49 year olds in the past few years, thanks largely to the popularity of Dancing with the Stars, and as a fun means to improve overall fitness while expanding social opportunities. We’ve overcome the image that ballroom is stodgy, old-fashioned, or most suited to our grandparents’ generation. Go listen to a band at your local street festivals and wineries, and you’ll see plenty of enthusiastic dancing. Yep, that’s ballroom dancing you’re watching, with a healthy dose of nightclub partner dances as well! Those dancers you’re admiring may not even realize they’re warding off Alzheimer’s disease; they’re just having a great time. Heartland Community College is offering many social dance classes this fall, from Social Dance Basics to classes that teach specific moves such as the Texas 2-Step and the Carolina Shag. For more information or to register, call 309-268-8160 or go online at www.heartland.edu/communityEd. Cathy is the owner of Dance Partners Adult Social Dance Studio and has been teaching classes for 16 years. She firmly believes anyone can learn to dance and you can meet the nicest people on the dance floor.
There is No Need to go to Chicago for Complex Arthroscopic Sports Medicine Surgeries
Need someone that speaks fluent insurance?
Dr. Norris is one of the only surgeons in the area performing: • Ligament reconstruction for knee cap instability • Osteochondral transplants for cartilage defects • Arthroscopic recontruction for clavicle ligament injuries
Axel Jimenez, Agent 1520 E College Avenue Normal, IL 61761 Bus: 309-451-3276 axel@axelismyagent.com
I’m your agent for that. No one wants to pay for unnecessary extras and with my help, you won’t have to. I’ll help make sure you understand your options, and that you have the best coverage at the best price. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. CALL ME TODAY. ®
Dr. Joseph Norris
Specialist in Arthroscopic Surgery
2502 East Empire, Bloomington
(309) 663-6461 1001183
State Farm • Home Office • Bloomington, IL
November 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 49
Quality Imaging/Excellence in Caring
Ft. Jesse Imaging
Center
ACR accredited in MRI, CT, PET/CT,
Ultrasound, Mammography and Breast MRI Full fledged multi-modality imaging center Convenient parking Imaging Studies interpreted by board
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Why wait one week, or one more day, to get the MRI and CT results your doctor needs now?
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2200 Ft. Jesse Rd
Suite 130
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Mon-Fri 7am-4:30pm
FT. JESSE
Imaging Center
2200 Ft. Jesse Rd Suite 120
309.454.5552 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
www.ftjesse.org Page 50 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — November 2012
Every person with ADHD/ADD has a unique portrait. Adult, Adolescent or Child Now you can see it objectively.
Call for an appointment today!
Anjum Bashir, MD Psychiatrist
205 N. Williamsburg Drive, Suite D Bloomington, IL 61704 • 309-808-2326
Bloomington Rehabilitation Associates treat medical conditions that can cause pain or limit function.
• Sports Injury • Workplace Injury • Stroke Rehabilitation • Spinal Cord Injury • Chronic Pain • Brain Injury • Arthritis • Cerebral Palsy • Multiple Sclerosis • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
1015 S. Mercer Ave. B l o o m i n g t o n Also called a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, a physiatrist provides a full spectrum of care from diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation to restore maximum health and quality of life.
A Central Illinois Premier Physiatrist Practice
309.662.7500 877.566.3879 www.cinhs.com
EXPERIENCED CARE for your heart.
CONVENIENTLY CLOSE to your home.
Time is muscle. Chest pain is the most common symptom of a heart attack. And the best way to stop a heart attack is to detect the symptoms early, before damage to the heart muscle occurs. Advocate BroMenn Medical Center provides quick, local access to services according to the highest standards of cardiac care. Accrediated by the Society of Chest Pain Centers, our cardiac team is setting the standard for care in the Bloomington-Normal area.
Together, our hearts beat as one.
Know your risk factors. For more information, visit advocatehealth.com/bromenn or call 1.800.3.ADVOCATE (1.800.323.8622)