Leading Medicine Winter 2018, Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital edition

LEADING MEDICINE W INT ER 2018

A LOOK AT STROKE IN YOUNGER PATIENTS HURRICANE HARVEY'S HIDDEN HEALTH HAZARDS

WHY WOMEN SHOULD LISTEN TO THEIR HEARTS Symptoms can vary when compared to men

YOUR LINK TO HEALTH INNOVATIONS, NEWS AND TIPS IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON

NEWS & EVENTS CONSIDER WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY

Dr. Dexter Turnquest

Dr. Todd Worley

At Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital we want to help you reach your goal of living a healthier lifestyle. Our Surgical Weight Loss Center has transformed the lives of thousands of patients with satisfying and life-changing results. Learn more about why we’ve been designated a center of excellence by watching our videos and listening to the uplifting stories of those who underwent weight-loss surgery at houstonmethodist.org/willowbrookbariatrics. You can register to attend a free monthly information seminar online as well, or call 281.737.2500. Join one of the following free weight-loss seminar dates with our board-certified surgeons: Dr. Todd Worley, Bariatric Surgeon – Date: Tuesday, Feb. 20 | Time: 6 p.m.

Dr. Dexter Turnquest, Bariatric Surgeon – Date: Wednesday, March 7 | Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Conference Center, 1st Floor 18220 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX 77070

FREE REFLUX SEMINAR

The digestive health experts at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital understand the discomfort and frustration that often comes from chronic acid reflux.

With a full complement of specialists, our team can help those experiencing frequent symptoms develop a treatment plan that is right for them. At this seminar, you will meet our team of experts and have your questions answered. Join the reflux health experts from Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital to learn about symptom management, as well as the latest advancements in minimally invasive surgical procedures. Dinner and giveaways will be provided. Registration is required. To register for this event, visit houstonmethodist.org/events or call 281.737.2500.

Date: Thursday, March 22 | Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Klein ISD Multipurpose Center 7500 Farm to Market 2920, Klein, TX 77379

SUFFERING FROM VARICOSE VEINS?

Varicose veins are a fact of life for many people over the age of 50. The blue, gnarled veins lying under the skin usually appear in the legs and can also cause pain and discomfort. So much blood pools into the legs, that it can cause the Dr. Richard Lee legs to feel heavy and leaden.

Fortunately, treatment usually doesn’t mean a hospital stay or a long, uncomfortable recovery. Thanks to less invasive procedures, varicose veins can generally be treated on an outpatient basis. The physicians and staff at Houston Methodist Vein Clinic at Willowbrook are leading the way in comprehensive vein treatment. To learn more about the full range of treatment options for venous disease, register for our free seminar at houstonmethodist.org/ willowbrook or call 281.737.2500.

Varicose Vein Seminar Dr. Richard Lee, Vein Specialist Date: Tuesday, Jan. 30 | Time: 6–8 p.m.

Location: Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Conference Center, 1st Floor 18220 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX 77070

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HEART SCREENING AND SEMINAR EVENT

With a history of excellence in heart care, Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital offers advanced imaging technology and surgical options to effectively treat heart disease. Our Heart Center is an accredited chest pain center, a designation reserved for hospitals that demonstrate the highest level of expertise in treating heart-attack patients. Join our panel of cardiac experts for an informative discussion on heart disease prevention, the latest medical treatments and our complete range of cardiovascular procedures. To register for the event, visit houstonmethodist.org/willowbrook or call 281.737.2500.

Date: Tuesday, Feb. 27 | Time: 6–8 p.m.

Location: Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Conference Center, 1st Floor 18220 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX 77070

MOTHER/DAUGHTER SYMPOSIUM

The mother-daughter bond is a unique relationship, but sometimes having “the talk” can be difficult to navigate on sensitive subjects. Our annual Mother/Daughter Symposium gives moms and daughters ages 9–17 years old the unique opportunity to learn Dr. Stephanie about puberty, peer pressure, hygiene, Bruce when to refer to a gynecologist, menses — what to expect and human papillomavirus (HPV). Daughters are divided by age into either the teen group for 13–17-year olds or the pre-teen group for girls 9–12 years old. Board-certified family doctors team lecture to both groups, and provide video clips, as well as informative literature packets.

Refreshments and giveaways will be provided.

Registration is required. To register or for more information, call 281.737.2500.

Dr. Stephanie Bruce, Obstetrician-Gynecologist Dr. Anita Belinoski, Pediatrician Date: Saturday, April 14 | Time: 10 a.m.–noon Location: Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Conference Center, 1st Floor 18220 State Hwy. 249 Houston TX 77070

SATURDAY, APRIL 14

LEARN HOW TO TREAT BACK PAIN

Specialized Medical Services at Our Spring Location Residents in Spring, Texas, now have access to expert care from three Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital practices, conveniently located at our Spring location: Athletes and everyday active patients can meet with Dr. M. Nameer Sidiquee, primary care sports medicine doctor with Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Willowbrook, who offers in-depth evaluations and consultations for orthopedic and sports injuries.

Whether explaining menstruation, preparing for the birth of a new baby or providing guidance through menopause, Dr. Jeanne J. Smith of Houston Methodist Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates gives comprehensive care from adolescence through adulthood.

The entire family can benefit from the expert care at Houston Methodist Primary Care Group where Dr. Hardeep (Debbie) Bal, Dr. Sabari Sundarraj and Dr. Pheba Zachariah administer preventive care, as well as treatment of common ailments and minor injuries.

TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor or miss work, and a leading cause of disability worldwide. Join the experts from Houston Methodist Spine Center at Willowbrook to learn about our comprehensive approach to treating neck and back conditions, including conservative treatment and minimally invasive procedures to help patients recover as quickly as possible. Join our spine specialists at a free seminar to learn about spinal disorders, bone health and treatment options. To register for this event, visit houstonmethodist.org/willowbrook or call 281.737.2500.

Date: Tuesday, April 24 | Time: 6–8 p.m.

Location: Klein ISD Multipurpose Center 7500 Farm to Market 2920 Klein, TX 77379

To schedule an appointment with any of the boardcertified doctors at the Spring location, contact: Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine M. Nameer Sidiquee, MD 281.737.0902 Houston Methodist Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates Jeanne J. Smith, MD 281.251.6394 Houston Methodist Primary Care Group Hardeep (Debbie) Bal, MD; Sabari Sundarraj, MD; and Pheba Zachariah, DO 713.394.6638 Spring Location: 7105 FM 2920 Rd. Spring, TX 77379

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

A LOOK AT STROKE IN

YOUNGER PATIENTS Me? At risk for stroke? No way!

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troke is often considered a condition that strikes older people. Although people over 50 still comprise the vast majority of stroke patients, research Dr. Kasey findings published in Gildersleeve 2016 in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggest a disturbing trend that indicates an increase in stroke in younger age groups.

“Understandably, most people think of older individuals with a lot of medical problems as being at risk for stroke,” said Dr. Kasey Gildersleeve, neurologist and medical director of the stroke program at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital.

“But younger individuals without these risk factors, or perhaps who have not had an evaluation to look for these risk factors, carry some level of risk also.”

BE ALERT TO THE RISKS

Research indicates that 10 percent of all ischemic strokes (the most common type of stroke) now occur in adults under age 50. U.S. researchers attribute the apparent rise in strokes among younger adults to many of the same lifestyle risk factors commonly found in older patients: high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol levels, diabetes and smoking.

Gildersleeve said younger patients who have uncontrolled aforementioned traditional risk factors can carry a significant risk of stroke, comparable to individuals a decade or two older. In the absence of traditional risk factors, conditions associated with stroke in the young include congenital or structural heart defects, intrinsic blood vessel abnormalities, trauma, illicit drug use and genetic conditions.

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Watch our special stroke video produced in partnership with Klein ISD to educate and empower young people to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke. https://vimeo.com/215870243

TAKE STEPS TO PROTECT AGAINST STROKE

While the symptoms of stroke are the same for both older and younger adults (see “The F.A.S.T. Test”), people may not readily recognize the symptoms in younger patients, which may lead to a delay in diagnosis that can cause permanent damage.

Gildersleeve said young adults should be aware of their stroke risk factors and the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and scheduling regular blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes screenings.

Get the Stroke Care You Need

Designated by the American Heart Association as a Gold Plus Primary Stroke Center, Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital is committed to helping stroke patients achieve the best possible long-term results. To learn more about our complete stroke care services, visit houstonmethodist.org/ willowbrook or call 281.737.2500.

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Questions to Ask at Your Next Annual Checkup

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alking with your doctor about any health concerns you have can be a powerful tool when it comes to catching health problems early and preventing disease.

Dr. Anupam “An annual checkup Sidhu is an opportunity to strengthen a partnership with your health care provider and discuss questions that can help you assess your health outlook,” said Dr. Anupam Sidhu, a family medicine doctor at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital.

family medical history, which shows if grandparents, parents or siblings had heart attacks, breast or prostate cancers and other illnesses.

as a mammogram for breast cancer, a bone density scan for osteoporosis or a colonoscopy for colorectal cancer,” Sidhu said.

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Given my age and health, what symptoms may indicate the onset of an illness? Knowing what symptoms to look for can empower you to take charge of your health.

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Are all my vital signs normal or within the accepted range? Ask about your body mass index (BMI), a formula that tells if your weight is appropriate for your height, as well as blood pressure and pulse and lung function.

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Given my medical status, what specific symptoms may indicate a health emergency? Discuss health emergency warning signs, especially if you have a family history or medical condition that puts you at greater risk.

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COVERING YOUR BASES

“Think of your annual checkup as a two-part process. First, is the exam itself,” Sidhu said. “The second part is getting a thorough understanding of your health and what you can do to improve it.”

Here are some questions to ask your doctor.

Is my health better, worse or the same since my last visit? Ask how your numbers compare to your last checkup.

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What are the best ways I can maintain my health or manage my condition? “I recommend speaking to your doctor about your diet, your level of physical activity and any other concerns you have,” Sidhu noted.

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Given my personal and family medical history, do I have a higher than normal risk for certain illnesses? Review with your doctor your

What screenings should I have?

“Depending on your medical history, age and health status, your doctor may recommend certain screenings, such

Should I be seeing a specialist for any reason? Ask if you feel you need help managing a chronic condition or have a disease that may require the expertise of a specialist.

What new therapies or changes in treatment have come up since my last checkup? Medicine is constantly evolving. Be sure you know about any new technologies or treatment options for your condition.

Should I get a flu shot or other vaccines? Your doctor can tell you if you are up-to-date on your vaccinations.

Schedule a Checkup Today

Regular checkups and communicating openly with your doctor is just as important as eating right, exercising and watching your weight.

Schedule an appointment with a Houston Methodist Primary Care doctor. Request an appointment online at houstonmethodist.org/ online-scheduling or call 713.394.6791.

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WHY WOMEN SHOULD LISTEN TO THEIR HEARTS Symptoms can vary when compared to men

New High Blood Pressure Guidelines

Are you at risk?

The American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association released new scientific guidelines on what’s considered high blood pressure, lowering the threshold from 140/90 mmHg to 130/80 mmHg. Recommendations focus on making healthy lifestyle changes to lower blood pressure, including quitting smoking, managing weight, being active and eating a heart-healthy diet. Some patients may also need medication.

The new blood pressure categories consider both systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) pressure.

Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg levated: Systolic between 120–129 and diastolic E less than 80 mmHg igh Stage 1: Systolic between 130–139 or diastolic H between 80–89 mmHg igh Stage 2: Systolic at least 140 or diastolic at least H 90 mmHg Talk to your doctor to learn if you’re at risk and how you can protect your heart.

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espite the perception that heart disease is a man’s disease, it’s the No. 1 killer of women, according to the American Heart Association. One out of 3 women die from Dr. Mukarram cardiovascular disease, yet Baig many are unaware of their risk for the condition. Women often put off taking care of their health — and this inaction can put an extra burden on their hearts.

One form of heart disease, a heart attack, can strike suddenly and with no advance warning. Just like men, women can experience the crushing chest pain and discomfort typically associated with a heart attack. But, women are somewhat more likely than men to experience other common heart attack symptoms and frequently ignore them.

“A misunderstanding of gender-related heart attack symptoms could cause women to delay getting care because they aren’t sure if they’re having a heart attack, panic attack or indigestion,” according to Dr. Mukarram Baig, medical director of the Cardiac Catheterization Lab at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital.

“It’s key to learn and watch for signs that something may be wrong — and if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek prompt medical care.”

glucose level. “Other risk factors include physical inactivity and stress. Active women who exercise regularly reduce their risk of heart disease by 60-75 percent. High levels of sustained stress can make you more susceptible to serious disorders, such as cardiovascular disease,” Baig said.

HOW A WOMAN’S HEART ATTACK MAY FEEL

MENOPAUSE TOO LATE TO PREPARE

You may already be familiar with classic heart attack symptoms for men, such as crushing chest pain that radiates down the left arm associated with sweatiness, paleness and shortness of breath. “Women are more likely than men to describe chest pain that is burning or sharp, as well as experience discomfort in the upper body, shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea, lightheadedness, fatigue, pain in the neck, jaw, throat, abdomen or back,” Baig said.

RISK FACTORS OFFER CLUES

Managing your risk factors for cardiovascular disease is only possible if you know what they are, and routine screening tests can reveal the answers. At your next checkup, ask your doctor to assess your weight and BMI (body mass index), waist circumference, blood pressure, cholesterol and fasting blood

MANY FACES OF HEART DISEASE

With all the focus on heart attacks, some aren’t aware that cardiovascular disease can take many forms. Other heart problems include heart failure, in which the heart isn’t pumping as efficiently as it should; arrhythmia, a too-slow or too-fast heartbeat that can affect its ability to meet the body’s needs; heart valve problems, which can impede proper blood flow through the heart; coronary heart disease, damage to major blood vessels of the heart; high blood pressure, which can damage the arteries; and disease of pulmonary circulation, which affect the flow of blood between the lungs and the heart.

Sixty-four percent of women who die suddenly from coronary heart disease have no previous symptoms. Fortunately, cardiovascular disease is largely preventable.

“Nearly all of these conditions are easily detectable with routine medical checkups,” Baig said. “It’s yet another reason why establishing an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician is so critical to your heart health.”

Women with heart disease risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a family history, shouldn’t wait until menopause to start a dialogue with their primary care physician about a prevention regimen to keep them healthy. A recent survey published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that 74 percent of women in the United States had at least one heart disease risk factor, but only 16 percent told their doctor about it.

“Women have such a low prevalence of heart disease until menopause that often times, the topic is ignored until women are well into their 50s and 60s,” Baig said.

“But those with risk factors need to be 10 years ahead of the game when it comes to prevention. Unfortunately, too many women already have heart disease by the time they’re tested.”

LEARN ABOUT RISK FACTORS FOR HEART DISEASE Controllable risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, weight, type 2 diabetes, smoking and stress.

Uncontrollable risk factors include age, family history and race.

Research indicates that adopting healthy lifestyle choices and knowing heart-attack signs have led to 330 fewer women dying of heart disease every day in the United States, according to the American Heart Association. What are the top ways to prevent heart disease?

1. Eat a healthy diet — reduce consumption of saturated fat, transfat, cholesterol and sodium.

2. Keep weight within a normal range — talk with your doctor about a weight range right for you.

3. Stay active — at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day is ideal.

4. Manage blood pressure (and blood sugar, if you have diabetes) — it reduces strain on the arteries and heart.

5. Don't smoke — or quit if you do.

6. Get regular medical checkups — talk to your doctors about a prevention plan and medications that may be right for you.

Heart Health Screenings & Seminar

Date: Tuesday, Feb. 27 Time: 6–8 p.m.

Location: Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital 18220 State Hwy. 249 Conference Center, 1st Floor

Schedule an appointment to learn your 10-year risk for heart disease, and receive cholesterol and blood pressure screenings. Registration required. Register online at houstonmethodist.org/ events or call 281.737.2500.

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HURRICANE

HARVEY’S Hidden Health Hazards Be alert for symptoms of mold exposure

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s our community continues rebuilding from the devastating effects of Hurricane Harvey, the immediate worries for personal safety and Dr. Philip Pirtle property have given way to longer-term concerns.

One growing issue: the side effects of mold exposure. Staying alert for possible symptoms can help you address problems early, before complications or serious infections begin.

“Respiratory issues are among the most common health problems after a hurricane and flooding,” said Dr. Philip Pirtle, a pulmonologist with Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital. “Moisture promotes mildew and mold — especially in our warm, damp Texas climate — which can have significant effects on your breathing and lung health.” Allergy sufferers, too, may find their reactions worsened due to extra moisture in the already humid environment that’s caused an excess of weeds and pollinating plants.

SYMPTOMS TO WATCH FOR

Those at highest risk include people with asthma and other breathing conditions as well as those with chronic health issues.

Pirtle advises Houstonians to be alert for these symptoms that can result from mold exposure: cough irritated eyes

8 LEADING MEDICINE IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON

shortness of breath skin irritation stuffy nose wheezing “It’s possible to develop a mold infection in your lungs, especially if you have existing lung conditions or other health issues,” Pirtle said. "Whether now or after future storms, it's important to let your doctor know if you develop these symptoms."

Keep in mind that mold begins growing in as little as 24 to 48 hours after exposure to moisture, and it’s not always easy to spot. Spores can lurk inside walls and even appliances that have insulation.

If you’re experiencing symptoms even after cleanup efforts, consider whether mold may be hiding somewhere not immediately visible.

HOUSTON METHODIST WELCOMES NEW PULMONARY MEDICINE GROUP PRACTICE Do you want to breathe easier?

Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital is excited to welcome three board-certified physicians in internal medicine, critical care medicine, sleep medicine and pulmonary disease to its Specialty Physician Group.

Houston Methodist Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine Associates is comprised of Dr. Philip Pirtle, Dr. Rayman Lee and Dr. Gregory Honeycutt.

Dr. Philip Pirtle

Make an Appointment

If you’ve noticed symptoms of a respiratory problem, call Houston Methodist Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine Associates at 281.737.2500.

TREATING THE PROBLEM

Your doctor may recommend prescription or over-the-counter medications to help treat your symptoms. Avoiding mold is one of the most important steps in treatment, which means eliminating the source. In addition to fixing leaking pipes or water problems, remove any housing materials that were wet, including drywall and flooring. Using a dehumidifier and

cleaning your HVAC system can help, too. For nonporous surfaces, like glass, metal and plastic, clean with a bleach solution. (Remember, never mix bleach and ammonia.)

If you already have medications for asthma or allergies, be sure to take them as prescribed and see your doctor for a checkup if your symptoms have worsened.

Dr. Rayman Lee

Dr. Gregory Honeycutt

Houston Methodist Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine Associates treat: Asthma C hronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) Emphysema Lung diseases L ung infections, such as tuberculosis, pulmonary hypertension and cystic fibrosis Sleep disorders

Houston Methodist Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine Associates is located on: 13300 Hargrave Rd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77070 To schedule an appointment, call 281.737.2500.

HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/WILLOWBROOK  9

Sidestepping Deep Vein Thrombosis D

o you have pain and swelling in your lower leg or thigh? This could be a sign of a blood clot deep in your leg. If ignored, the clot could damage your leg and possibly lead to serious heart and lung complications. Fortunately, this condition — called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) — is treatable, but early diagnosis is paramount.

“A blood clot can break away from its location in the leg Dr. Richard Lee and travel to the lungs,” warned Dr. Richard Lee, a vascular surgeon at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital.

“Once there, it may block a lung artery and cause a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism. Patients diagnosed with DVT must be hospitalized promptly to receive treatment and avoid complications.”

PREVENT DVT WHEN TRAVELING

Sitting for long periods of time, either in an airplane or a car can limit circulation in the legs, leading to a clot forming in the vein. The clot can travel unnoticed through the blood stream and potentially lodge in the brain, lungs, heart and other areas causing severe damage to organs. You can avoid DVT when traveling by getting up and walking around at least every two hours, and try not to sleep more than four hours at a time in an airplane or car. If you can't get up every couple of hours, extend both legs and move feet back and forth in a circular motion periodically.

BLOOD CLOT CAUSES

“DVT can run in families, but many times these clots form for no apparent reason,” Lee said. “What we do know is that men and women of all ages and races can be at risk for a blood clot.”

Risk factors for DVT include: Obesity Heart attack Inactivity A recent hip or leg fracture An above-normal tendency for Pancreatic and certain other cancer blood to clot treatments in which blood-clotting Recent surgery agents form in the bloodstream

SIGNS OF DVT

Could You Have DVT?

If you’re concerned that you may have DVT or other vein problems, don’t wait to get help. Visit the Houston Methodist Vein Clinic at Willowbrook. Schedule an appointment online at houstonmethodist.org/onlinescheduling or call 281.737.2500.

10 LEADING MEDICINE IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON

The onset of DVT is usually marked by inflammation and swelling of the leg as well as redness, pain, tenderness and a sensation of heat radiating from the location of the clot. “Once DVT is diagnosed, usually through a simple scan at our Vein Clinic, a blood-thinning agent called heparin is given intravenously to keep the clot from getting bigger,” Lee said. “Eventually the body will dissolve the clot, and once that happens, anti-clotting medication called warfarin is given to keep the clot from re-forming.”

Warfarin therapy usually lasts from three to six months, but the dosage levels occasionally need adjusting. Too much warfarin causes patients to bruise easily and bleed profusely from even minor cuts.

OVERCOMING COMMON PROBLEMS

Breastfeeding Survival Guide FOR REAL LIFE 1 C hoosing to breastfeed is one of the most loving decisions you can make for your newborn. In addition to meeting your baby’s nutritional needs, breast Dr. Lori milk protects against Cavender infection, which can be crucial for preterm infants. The skinto-skin contact it provides also helps strengthen the bonds between you.

Some new mothers run into obstacles when learning how to breastfeed. “We support every mom who wants to breastfeed her baby,” said Dr. Lori Cavender, an obstetriciangynecologist at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital.

The first few days and weeks are often difficult with a newborn — it’s an emotional and sleep-deprived time for parents. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

Start right away. If possible, put your baby to your breast soon after birth.

It’s OK if you don’t know exactly what to do — it’s comforting for baby to be close to you.

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Find the right position. Remember that both you and baby are learning.

“A nurse or lactation consultant can show you different ways to position baby at the breast,” Cavender said. comfortable. You might try 3Get sitting up in bed or in an armchair

that supports your back. Consider using a breastfeeding pillow to support baby while you’re breastfeeding.

Breastfeed every one to two hours.

4The more you breastfeed, the more

milk your body will produce to meet baby’s needs. Keep a log of feeding times and whether baby fed on the left or right breast or both.

Breastfeeding problems are common, and many challenges can be helped if you get the support you need.

Engorgement: Your breasts may feel full and tender when engorged with milk a few days after giving birth. Keep nursing regularly and alternate the breast baby nurses on first from feeding to feeding. Apply warm compresses or take a warm shower to ease discomfort.

Nipple pain: Nipple soreness is a sign that your baby is not latching onto your breast properly. Try changing positions to make sure you’re comfortable and baby is supported. A lactation consultant can help you make sure baby is latched on and sucking the right way.

Blocked milk duct: A hard knot forms in the breast if a duct becomes clogged with milk.

To get the milk flowing again, offer the breast with the clogged duct first at feedings. Gently massage the breast and apply a warm compress to relieve pain.

Schedule a Tour Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Willowbrook invites you to experience our warm and caring environment by scheduling a tour. Call 281.737.2500 for upcoming dates and times.

a break. Breastfeeding is a 5Take demanding job, and you may benefit from taking a break to get some fresh air and exercise. Ask your loved ones for help if you need it.

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