Leading Medicine Fall 2021, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital edition

LEADING MEDICINE FA LL 2021

Have a Diabetes Game Plan

Don't Delay Primary Care Visits

MAMMOGRAM FAQs

Your Breast Cancer Screening Questions Answered Visit houstonmethodist.org/lmn/fall-2021 to read more online.

YOUR LINK TO HEALTH INNOVATIONS, NEWS AND TIPS IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

DON’T DELAY

PRIMARY CARE VISITS

D Dr. Lola Okunnu

Dr. Zenithe Pierre Ware

elaying primary care visits can put your health at risk. It’s important to prioritize primary care visits even when you’re busy juggling other responsibilities in life. And with cold and flu season almost here, taking steps to stay healthy and prevent the spread of illness can give you and your family peace of mind.

Here’s a look at key primary care visits to get caught up on:

ANNUAL WELLNESS CHECKUPS

“Seeing a primary care provider who knows you and your health history can help you manage your health — and even save your life,” said Dr. Lola Okunnu, board-certified family medicine physician with Houston Methodist Primary Care Group at Sugar Land.

MENTAL HEALTH SCREENING

You can talk to your primary care provider about mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression and other mood disorders.

VACCINATIONS

“It’s more important than ever to stay on schedule with recommended vaccines,” said Dr. Zenithe Pierre Ware, board-certified internal medicine and pediatrics physician with Houston Methodist Primary Care Group at Riverstone. “They provide protection for you and others against flu, pneumonia, COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.”

CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT

“Your primary care provider can also help coordinate your care with specialists, which is essential when you’re managing diabetes, heart disease, asthma and other conditions,” said Ware.

CANCER SCREENINGS

If you have been putting off primary care wellness visits, you may not be aware of cancer screenings that are appropriate for your current age. “Your primary care provider may recommend getting a mammogram, colonoscopy, lung cancer screening, prostate screening or another cancer screening test at a wellness visit,” said Okunnu. “These tests help find certain cancers early, when they are more treatable.”

Scheduling Primary Care Visits

Don’t delay in getting caught up on your family’s preventive wellness checks, screenings and vaccinations. Houston Methodist Primary Care Group is here to help. We encourage you to call 832.416.1678 or visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg/southwest to schedule your in-person clinic or virtual visit.

2 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

DRIVE-THRU COMMUNITY TOY DRIVE AND FLU SHOT CLINIC Date: Saturday, Oct. 9 | Time: 8-11 a.m.

Location: Drive-thru at Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land 16675 Southwest Fwy., Sugar Land, TX 77479 Bring a new, unwrapped toy in exchange for a free flu shot. Toys will benefit local children in the Fort Bend area. No stuffed animals or clothing items allowed.

Flu shots are for persons ages 18 and older, with no history of Guillain-Barré syndrome or rubber latex allergy, and who are not pregnant. No appointment necessary.

Visit join.houstonmethodist.org/flushot-sl for more information or call 281.274.7976 with questions.

CHECK OUT OUR DIGITAL MAGAZINE AT HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/NEWSROOM/NEWSLETTERS 3

LIVING WITH EPILEPSY

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pilepsy is a common neurological disorder where the main feature is recurrent seizures; however, there are cognitive, psychological and social aspects to the disease that are also very important.

Seizures occur when the electrical systems of the brain malfunction temporarily causing Dr. Omotola episodes of stiffening and shaking, periods of Hope unusual behavior or sensations with or without loss of awareness.

An estimated 3 million adults and 470,000 children in the U.S. are affected by epilepsy.* However, thanks to advancements in technology and medications, our ability to control seizures and manage epilepsy continues to improve.

“In about half of all cases of epilepsy, there is no identifiable cause,” said Dr. Omotola Hope, board-certified neurologist with Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land.

“Known causes of epilepsy include genetic and developmental disorders, birth injuries, head trauma, strokes, brain tumors and infections that damage the brain.” Seizure sufferers experience no pain and usually no long-term effects.

TYPES OF SEIZURE

Although there are many different types of seizures, doctors have placed them into general categories based on which part and how much of the brain is affected.

Generalized seizures. This type affects both sides of the brain and is characterized by loss of consciousness for a period of time.

There are several types of generalized seizures including: T onic-clonic seizures, or grand mal seizures, often begin with a fall or cry, then the body stiffens (tonicity); arms flex; legs, head and neck extend; and the jaws clamp shut.

Breathing appears difficult, the body jerks (clonicity) and saliva may accumulate in the mouth. Afterward, the person may be confused at first and will experience fatigue from the intense muscle activity.

A bsence seizures, or petit mal seizures, often occur in children and are considerably milder. They may appear as a brief lapse of consciousness while a person stares fixedly at an object, blinking their eyes rapidly or rolling them upwards.

Focal seizures. This type occurs when the electrical disturbance affects only a portion of the brain. Focal seizures can be further classified: A focal aware seizure may cause sudden jerking on one side of the body, flashing lights in one side of the visual field or an emotional feeling such as fear or anxiety.

A focal seizure with impaired awareness may involve repeating a behavior, such as lip smacking, chewing, swallowing or hand rubbing, and a lack of awareness about one’s environment.

TREATING EPILEPSY

“Antiseizure medications provide an effective treatment for most people living with epilepsy,” said Hope. “Doctors will choose the right medication or combination of medications based on the patient’s age and type of epilepsy with the goal being no seizures and no side effects. For some patients with focal seizures epilepsy surgery can be highly effective. Other therapies for treating epilepsy include: K etogenic diet – A strict diet that’s high in fats and low in carbohydrates may be helpful for some children and adults with epilepsy.

V agus nerve stimulation – An implanted device sends bursts of electrical current to the brain by way of the vagus nerve to inhibit seizures.

R esponsive neurostimulator – Electrodes are placed in the part of the brain where the seizure begins and the electrodes sense the seizure then learn to halt the seizure before it is obvious to the patient.

D eep brain stimulation – Surgeons implant electrodes that send electrical pulses to certain parts of the brain which allow interruption of the seizure network. * Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Working Together for Leading-Edge Care

Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land has a team of specialists who work together to provide leading-edge epilepsy care for your family. To schedule an appointment visit houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl or call 281.205.4662 to schedule an appointment.

4 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

Does My Baby Have Jaundice?

T hose first moments with your baby can bring a flood of emotions from joy and relief to worry and exhaustion. Your baby’s health will be closely monitored in the hospital to ensure a healthy start, from making sure baby is feeding well to watching for signs of jaundice.

If your baby has jaundice, you may notice a Dr. Shaeequa yellowing of the eyes and skin. This happens Dasnadi when baby has high levels of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that occurs with the normal breakdown of red blood cells. The liver is responsible for processing bilirubin, and a buildup can occur because baby’s liver is still developing.

“Newborn jaundice is common, especially in premature babies born before 37 weeks gestation and babies not getting enough breastmilk or formula,” said Dr. Shaeequa Dasnadi, a neonatal medicine specialist at Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land. “It can also develop if baby’s blood type is not compatible with the mother’s blood type.”

RECOGNIZING JAUNDICE

In most cases, newborn jaundice resolves on its own and is not a cause for worry. “Jaundice usually disappears after two to three weeks as baby begins to feed more consistently. But there are times when jaundice doesn’t improve and we become concerned about high levels of bilirubin that may put baby’s health at risk,” Dasnadi said.

Your baby will be monitored for jaundice during routine medical checks in the hospital. After you go home, you should schedule a follow-up appointment with your baby’s doctor between the third and seventh day after birth. Contact your doctor if you have concerns such as: Your baby’s skin is becoming more yellow.

The whites of baby’s eyes look yellow.

Your baby seems sick or difficult to awaken.

Your baby is feeding poorly or not gaining weight.

Your baby is making high-pitched cries.

TREATMENTS FOR NEWBORN JAUNDICE

Jaundice that does not improve may be a sign of an underlying health problem that should be checked out by a doctor. In severe cases, excess levels of bilirubin can put a baby at risk for deafness, cerebral palsy and other forms of brain damage. “Newborns with moderate to severe jaundice may need to stay longer in the hospital or be readmitted to the hospital after going home,” Dasnadi explained.

Our neonatal staff at Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land helps you navigate testing and treatment for mild to

Taking Care of Baby

You have peace of mind knowing your baby’s health is closely monitored at the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land. To find an obstetrician-gynecologist or to learn more, visit houstonmethodist.org/childbirth-sl or call 281.274.7500.

ADVANCED LEVEL II NICU As a new parent, you want peace of mind knowing that your baby’s health is closely monitored. Our level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is staffed by highly trained nurses and expert neonatology providers who monitor high-risk and premature babies 24/7. With our recent expansion and addition of obstetric emergency services, our Childbirth Center continues the journey to opening a level III NICU, which will allow for this level of care that is not yet available in Fort Bend County. severe jaundice. Treatments for newborn jaundice may include the following: E xtra feedings: Your doctor may recommend more frequent feedings or supplementing with additional formula or stored breastmilk. Houston Methodist has breastfeeding counselors and board-certified lactation consultants available to provide support and assistance to patients during the day, seven days a week.

P hototherapy: Light therapy involves placing baby under a special lamp that emits blue-green light. Baby wears a diaper and protective eye patches during treatment.

I ntravenous immunoglobulin: When jaundice is caused by blood type differences between mother and baby, an intravenous transfusion of immunoglobulin can help reduce the levels of antibodies contributing to the breakdown of red blood cells.

E xchange transfusion: An exchange transfusion of blood may be needed in severe cases of jaundice when other treatments haven’t helped. This treatment may help dilute the bilirubin by replacing it with donor blood.

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MAMMOGRAM FAQs

YOUR BREAST CANCER SCREENING QUESTIONS ANSWERED

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hen life is busy, it’s easy to put everyone else’s needs before your own. But it’s important to make time for yourself — and your annual screening mammogram. If you’re not sure when to start getting mammograms or what to expect, we’re here to help.

Dr. Michelle O’Shea, board-certified surgeon Dr. Michelle with Houston Methodist Breast Surgery Partners O’Shea at Sugar Land, answered some common questions women have about getting mammograms.

PREPARING FOR YOUR MAMMOGRAM When should I start getting screening mammograms and how often?

Your doctor may recommend annual mammograms starting at age 40 if you have an average risk for breast cancer. Ask your doctor about your risk for breast cancer and the screening schedule that’s right for you.

Why should I get an annual mammogram?

Getting regular mammograms makes it possible to detect breast cancers when they are small and easier to treat. It’s also helpful to be able to review your mammogram history and track any changes in the breasts over time.

What do I need to know about scheduling my mammogram?

It may be helpful to avoid scheduling a mammogram the week before your period, when your breasts may be more tender.

However, it’s important to get in for a mammogram whenever it works with your schedule.

What should I wear for my exam?

Life is busy and it’s OK if you show up as you are for your mammogram. Wearing a two-piece outfit makes it easier to remove your top for your mammogram and it’s best to avoid wearing deodorant, powders or lotions. You’ll be offered wipes to remove deodorant, if needed.

Learn More Online Visit us online at houstonmethodist.org/lmn/fall-2021 to read more about breast health, screening options and the early detection of breast cancer.

6 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

TYPES OF MAMMOGRAPHY AND BREAST IMAGING Whether you need a screening mammogram or other breast imaging test, we have the technology and expertise to guide you through the next steps.

3D mammogram is a highly efficient and accurate digital technology used to identify smaller tumors sooner for earlier breast cancer detection.

Does my insurance cover a mammogram?

Most major insurance plans cover an annual screening mammogram, but it’s important to call and verify your coverage.

CREATING A COMFORTABLE EXPERIENCE What should I expect during my visit?

After checking in, you’ll be escorted to a dressing room to change into a warm robe. You will be shown to the waiting area where you can enjoy a cup of coffee before meeting with the mammography technologist.

What happens during a screening mammogram?

The technologist will ask you some questions related to your health, including birth control, family history of breast cancer and any symptoms you may be experiencing. Next, you’ll be asked to stand in front of a 3D mammography machine and the technologist will take X-rays of two different views of each breast.

Are mammograms painful?

Some women may find the breast compression to be uncomfortable or painful, but the experience is different for everyone. The compression takes about 10 seconds for each image, and our technologists are trained to listen to you and make the experience as comfortable as possible.

UNDERSTANDING MAMMOGRAM TECHNOLOGY What is a 3D mammogram?

A 3D mammogram is the latest, most advanced technology to detect breast cancer with the greatest accuracy. 3D technology uses X-ray imaging and allows for more targeted views that help find small cancers.

What is the purpose of a screening mammogram vs. diagnostic mammogram?

A screening mammogram is done when you have no symptoms of breast cancer. The purpose is to find cancers in an early stage before you can feel a lump. If we find an irregularity on a screening mammogram, you may be asked to come back for further testing. A diagnostic mammogram may be ordered after

Breast ultrasound is an imaging test that can determine if a lump or mass is filled with fluid.

Breast MRI is an extremely sensitive test to look for breast cancer and may also be used for breast cancer treatment planning.

a screening mammogram shows a questionable area or if you feel a lump in your breast or have other symptoms.

GETTING YOUR RESULTS Who will review my images?

Our board-certified breast radiologists are specially trained to interpret breast mammogram results.

How will I get my results?

Once reviewed by a doctor, you can view your results in the patient portal. If further testing is needed, the lead technologist will call you to share findings and schedule additional testing.

What does it mean to have dense breast tissue on a mammogram?

Density refers to how much fibrous tissue is in the breast. Having high density on a mammogram makes it more difficult to see a mass. In some cases, we may order a breast ultrasound in addition to a mammogram for women with high breast density.

What if I get called back for a second mammogram?

Getting called for a second mammogram doesn’t mean you have cancer. It means we need more information to see what’s going on. When you come in for a diagnostic mammogram, a breast radiologist will meet with you before you leave to share the results and answer your questions.

Scheduling Your Mammogram To schedule your mammogram at Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land, visit houstonmethodist.org/breast-care-sl or call 281.542.3492.

HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND 7

TREATING BACK PAIN WITH SPINAL FUSION

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here are several different treatment methods for those suffering from chronic back pain, including rest, physical therapy, medication and surgery.

Surgery is often the last Dr. Derrick Y. resort for many patients, Sun but the results can be life changing. One common back surgery — spinal fusion —permanently fuses two vertebrae together to eliminate painful movement between them.

WHO BENEFITS FROM SPINAL FUSION?

“If your back pain is caused by abnormal or excessive motion between two vertebrae, spinal fusion may help relieve symptoms and improve day-to-day functioning,” said Dr. Derrick Y. Sun, board-certified neurosurgeon with Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land.

Your doctor can pinpoint the source of pain with imaging tests, such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, or diagnostic electromyography/nerve conduction velocity study (EMG/NCV).

Surgery may be an option for those who suffer from: Degenerative disk disease or recurrent herniated disks Weak or unstable spine (caused by infections or tumors) Fractures or injuries to the bones in the spine Spinal deformities, such as scoliosis or kyphosis (abnormal curvatures of the spine) Spondylolisthesis (when one vertebra slips forward on top of another) For patients with multiple spinal conditions, spinal fusion can be performed along with diskectomy (to treat herniated spinal disks) or other procedures for spinal stenosis, such as laminectomy

(to remove part or all the vertebral bone) and foraminotomy (to relieve pressure on compressed nerves).

WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT FROM SURGERY?

If you are a candidate for spinal fusion, your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits, and help you prepare for surgery.

There are several different surgical techniques for spinal fusion, but in general the steps include: General anesthesia is used (so no pain is felt during surgery).

The surgeon makes an incision to access the spine.

Bone grafts are used to fuse the vertebrae together. Bone grafts may come from a bone bank, your own body (sometimes the pelvic bone) or synthetic bone material.

Instruments, such as cages, plates, screws or rods, hold the vertebrae together until the bone graft fully heals.

“After surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a couple of days,” said Sun. “You may experience some pain and discomfort, but it can usually be managed with medications.”

Back at home you need to refrain from normal activities until your body has

solidly fused the vertebre. Depending on your job or daily activities, you may be able to resume normal duties within four to six weeks for less-demanding work, or four to six months for physically demanding work. Your doctor and physical therapist will advise you on when you can return to normal activities.

Your doctor may recommend wearing a brace to keep your spine properly aligned. “You may also benefit from physical therapy and back exercises to strengthen and condition your body to move, sit and stand in ways that protect your spine,” said Sun.

Schedule an Appointment

Our specialists work together to diagnose, treat and manage a range of back pain and other neurological conditions. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Derrick Y. Sun or another specialist with Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land, visit houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl or call 281.205.4662 for an appointment.

JOIN US FOR A LIVE WEBINAR ON RELIEVING BACK AND NECK PAIN Date: Tuesday, Nov. 9 l Time: 6 p.m. | Location: Live webinar Register online at join.houstonmethodist.org/backpain-sl or call 281.274.7500.

8 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

COLON CANCER IN YOUNGER ADULTS: KNOW THE RISKS

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t may be hard to believe that colon cancer could develop in your 20s, 30s or 40s — but the risks are real. In 2020, the death of actor Chadwick Boseman at age 43 from colon cancer underscored the threat of colon cancer to younger adults. With colon cancer increasing in younger adults, it’s important to raise awareness about the risks and be proactive about Dr. Kirtan prevention and early detection.

Nautiyal The American Cancer Society estimates that 12% of all new colon cancer cases in the U.S. will be diagnosed in patients younger than 50. “Lifestyle factors, such as having a poor diet and being overweight may be contributing to the increase in cases in younger adults; however, much is not known yet,” said Dr. Kirtan Nautiyal, board-certified hematologist-oncologist with Houston Methodist Oncology Partners at Sugar Land. “Adults ages 50 and older are still the highest risk group for colon cancer, but the risk of colon cancer for younger adults is rising faster.”

COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING

Early screenings and detection of colorectal cancer make it possible to find the disease early when it’s more treatable. The National Cancer Institute recommends colorectal cancer screening, including a colonoscopy, starting at age 45 for people with an average risk of colon cancer. If you have an increased risk for colorectal cancer, screening should start before age 45. You may be at increased or high risk for colon cancer if you have: A strong family history of colon cancer A personal history of colorectal polyps A hereditary syndrome that increases your risk Inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease Radiation to your abdomen or pelvic area to treat a prior cancer.

How do you know if you have a strong family history of colon cancer? Having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) diagnosed with colorectal cancer increases your risk. The risk goes up if your relative was diagnosed before age 50 or more than one relative was diagnosed.

LOWER YOUR RISKS

“Some of the factors that increase your risk for colon cancer are beyond your control,” said Nautiyal. “However, you have the power to make healthy lifestyle choices to help reduce your risk.”

Nautiyal recommends the following: Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains may help prevent colon cancer.

Avoid highly processed foods. Lunch meats and foods containing added chemicals and preservatives may increase colon cancer risk.

Get Peace of Mind

If you’re having symptoms — at any age — you should take it seriously and see your doctor to schedule a colonoscopy. To find a gastroenterologist near you, call 281.274.7500.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with colon cancer and would like to request an appointment with Dr. Kirtan Nautiyal or another oncologist with Houston Methodist Oncology Partners at Sugar Land, call 281.201.6669.

Exercise regularly. Having a sedentary lifestyle has been linked to colon cancer.

Lose weight. Being overweight or obese can also increase the risk of colon cancer.

Quit tobacco and limit alcohol. Both are linked to many cancers including colon cancer.

WATCH FOR WARNING SIGNS

Colon cancer is more likely to be overlooked in younger people and tends to be more aggressive, so it’s important to get checked out if you have concerns. Some of the warning signs include: Rectal bleeding A change in bowel habits Unusual abdominal pains Unexpected weight loss.

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A Self-Care Program Can Decrease Your Risk of Diabetes Complications

HAVE A DIABETES GAME PLAN D iabetes is a disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or respond to insulin, a hormone that enables cells to absorb glucose (sugars) and use it as energy.

If you have diabetes, you know how important it is to keep your blood sugar under control.

But keeping your blood sugar levels within the range recommended by your doctor can be Dr. Travis challenging. Working with a diabetes health Goodale care team will help you better understand and manage the challenges of diabetes, and help you avoid many of the problems associated with the disease.

While there’s no cure for diabetes, you can learn how to lower your risk of complications with good diabetes self-management.

It all starts with developing a game plan. Having a diabetes game plan can help you take back some control over your disease. Your game plan should include simple daily, weekly and monthly tasks and goals, such as eating less and moving more and logging your blood glucose. At Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, our health care providers, including diabetes educators, work with

10 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

you to tailor a program you can follow throughout the year.

“The complications associated with diabetes can be daunting at first, but the good news is that people with diabetes who have and stick to a diabetes management plan, and keep their blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible have a much lower risk of developing health complications,” said Dr. Travis Goodale, boardcertified endocrinologist at Houston Methodist Endocrinology Associates at Sugar Land.

Use the schedule below as a model for your self-care diabetes program, adding any other guidelines you and your care team have agreed you should follow.

DAILY CARE

Self-monitor and log your blood glucose. There’s no “right” number of times to test. At certain times, you’ll benefit from testing several times a day to help get your blood glucose in your healthy range. You’ll also want to test your blood glucose before and after you exercise and when you’re sick. This will help you understand how other factors, such as illness, stress and physical exertion, affect your blood sugar levels.

Keep track of your medications. Understand your dosages and timing. And be sure to talk to your doctor before starting a new medication as some medications can impact your blood sugar levels. If you’re having trouble remembering to take your medicine or insulin, set daily reminders on your calendar or use a smartphone app.

Eat well. Careful eating is essential to managing your disease. “Choose fresh vegetables, beans, whole grains, chicken or turkey without the skin, fish, lean meats, and nonfat or low-fat milk and cheese,” Goodale said.

Stay well-hydrated. Drink plenty of water or other nonsweetened beverages throughout the day. Be sure to drink extra water before and after exercising because dehydration can affect blood sugar levels.

Exercise. Frequent activity is important for weight control and general health. Try to work up to 30 minutes or more of physical activity on most days of the week. Brisk walking and swimming are good ways to move more. Talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.

Examine your feet. Because you’re prone to numbness, infections and poor circulation, your feet are vulnerable to health problems. Checking your feet for signs of swelling and other changes can catch problems early when they’re most treatable.

EVERY WEEK TO EVERY MONTH

Weigh yourself. Maintaining a normal weight makes it easier to achieve good blood glucose control. Talk to your doctor if you’re having trouble maintaining a healthy weight.

Follow a healthy eating plan. Planning menus and shopping ahead of time will save you from having to throw together last-minute meals that may not fit into a healthy diet.

Find a diabetes support group for friendship and advice.

Ask your doctor to recommend a support group or visit the American Diabetes Association website at diabetes.org for resources. If you think you may be suffering from a serious inability to cope, ask your doctor for a referral to a mental health professional.

Ask for help when you need it. Diabetes management can be a lot to handle, from taking medications to checking blood sugar to eating healthy food and keeping health care appointments. Enlisting the help of family and friends can help you feel less overwhelmed and more empowered. It can also help reduce stress.

EVERY THREE TO SIX MONTHS

Schedule a doctor’s visit to monitor your diabetes.

At your appointment, your doctor should: Do a hemoglobin A1c blood test, which measures the amount of glucose in your blood.

JOIN US FOR A DIABETES EDUCATION LIVE WEBINAR Date: Thursday, Oct. 7 | Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Live Webinar If you think you or a loved one might be at risk for developing diabetes, we encourage you to join us for an online educational live webinar with Christine Fisher, MSN, RN, CDE, inpatient diabetes educator, to discuss: Identifying risks Methods of diagnosis D ifference between prediabetes, type 1 and type 2 diabetes Living with diabetes Register online at join.houstonmethodist.org/diabetes-sl or call 281.274.7500.

Weigh yourself to make sure you’re maintaining a healthy weight.

Take your blood pressure. People with diabetes are susceptible to heart disease, and a blood pressure screening is an important indicator of heart health.

Conduct a medical foot exam.

Schedule a dental exam. People with diabetes tend to be prone to gum disease and infection so, it’s important to visit your dentist on a regular basis.

ONCE A YEAR, EVERY YEAR Ask your primary care doctor to:

Test your urine for any sign of kidney disease. Diabetes is the most common cause of chronic kidney disease.

Screen your blood for cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Get a flu shot and updates to pneumonia, tetanus and hepatitis B vaccinations. Having an illness raises blood glucose levels and increases your chances of infection.

Schedule a diabetic eye exam. Since diabetes puts you at risk for vision complications, ask if your doctor recommends an exam with an opthamologist.

Schedule an Appointment

Our doctors provide individualized care for diabetes and can help you develop your diabetes game plan. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Travis Goodale with Houston Methodist Endocrinology Associates at Sugar Land, call 832.219.7633.

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Our Breast Care Center offers:

• The latest 3D mammogram technology • Board-certified breast imaging radiologists

• Acceptance of most major insurance plans

Your health is our priority. To better protect you, we took it one step further by requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for all of our physicians, staff and employees.

Scan the QR code, visit houstonmethodist.org/breast-care or call 281.542.3492 to schedule your mammogram today.

We do not require a doctor’s order for your annual screening mammogram.

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