Leading Medicine Spring-Summer 2022, Houston Methodist Hospital edition

LEADING MEDICINE SP RING/SUM M ER 2022

Emergency Care, Urgent Care or Primary Care: Know Where to Go Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: A Common Issue Not Commonly Discussed When Is the Right Time for

JOINT

REPLACEMENT?

YOUR LINK TO HEALTH INNOVATIONS, NEWS AND TIPS FROM HOUSTON METHODIST

HEALTHY EATS

Honeydew Summer Salad Wedges Cool off with this chilled fruit salad on a hot summer day!

INGREDIENTS 1 honeydew melon 1 package gelatin, lemon-flavored (3-ounce) ½ cup water (boiling) ½ cup water (iced) Ice cubes 1 cup whole strawberries (hulled)

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING Number of servings: 8 93 calories; 0 g total fat; 0 g saturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 74 mg sodium; 22 g carbohydrates; 1 g dietary fiber; 20 g total sugars; 9 g added sugars; 2 g protein; 13 mg calcium; 0 mg iron; 313 mg potassium.

DIRECTIONS 1. Cut melon in half; scoop out seeds. Pat the inside of the melon dry using paper towels.

2. Dissolve gelatin in boiling water.

3. Combine ice water and ice cubes to make one cup. Add to gelatin and stir until slightly thickened. Remove any unmelted ice.

4. Place each melon half in a small bowl to hold straight and firm.

Place half of strawberries in each melon half. Pour gelatin mixture over berries.

5. Cover with plastic wrap and chill until firm, about 3 hours.

To serve, cut into wedges.

Recipe courtesy of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, whatscooking.fns.usda.gov

IN THIS ISSUE - SPRING/SUMMER 2022

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Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: A Common Issue Not Commonly Discussed Take control with treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence.

Sleep Apnea Treatment: Know Your Options Take snoring seriously and seek help for obstructive sleep apnea.

Clinical Trials: A Promising Cancer Treatment Option Clinical trials provide access to potentially groundbreaking therapies currently being developed.

When Is the Right Time for Joint Replacement?

Discover your path to treatment for joint pain.

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Improving Stroke Recovery Learn about advances in stroke rehabilitation that help restore mobility, communication, and cognitive and social skills.

Emergency Care, Urgent Care or Primary Care: Know Where to Go Choosing the right place at the right time can help you get the care you need.

Leading the Way in Lung Care The Advanced Lung Disease Program offers hope for very ill patients and those waiting for lung transplants.

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Pelvic Floor Dysfunction:

A Common Issue Not Commonly Discussed

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f you suffer from urinary incontinence, you're not alone. One in 5 women will have surgery for prolapse and incontinence by 2050, according to a recent study.

Women who experience urinary leakage or vaginal bulge symptoms may assume these problems are a normal part of aging, so they wait to seek medical help. "Women with pelvic floor Dr. Kathryn S. disorders wait an average of seven years before Williams deciding to see a urogynecologist about their symptoms,” said Dr. Kathryn Williams, a urogynecologist with Houston Methodist Hospital.

It’s also important to remember that pelvic floor disorders can happen at any age. For example, women in their 20s or 30s may experience problems with bladder leakage after childbirth.

“It’s common for premenopausal women to have stress urinary incontinence or leakage with coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercise, while postmenopausal women may seek advice for prolapse or overactive bladder. Regardless of age, pelvic floor disorders can severely impact their quality of life,” Williams said.

Minimally invasive (laparoscopic) or robotic surgery may be recommended depending on the severity of prolapse and other factors. Pelvic floor reconstruction surgery is a type of surgery that repairs weakened pelvic floor tissues by strengthening the supporting ligaments around the pelvic organs.

If you have pelvic floor issues, you’re not alone, and there’s no need to be embarrassed or hide how you’re feeling. “Dealing with pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence can be bothersome, and many women are relieved to learn there are so many treatment options available,” Williams said.

WHAT CAUSES BLADDER ISSUES?

Pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue can become weak due to childbirth, surgery, or aging, and that weakness can cause bladder and bowel control problems.

Weak pelvic floor muscles can also cause vaginal prolapse, meaning the uterus, bladder, or rectum drops or bulges into the vagina. Moderate to severe bulging may cause a pulling or a heavy feeling in the pelvis, trouble urinating or moving bowels, and lower back pain. The three most common pelvic floor disorders — urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence and vaginal prolapse — can all be treated by various methods.

TAKE CONTROL WITH TREATMENT

The following treatment options can provide relief for pelvic floor disorders: Kegel exercises may help strengthen pelvic floor muscles and relieve symptoms. If you need some guidance, ask your doctor about physical therapy programs for pelvic floor strengthening.

Pelvic floor physical therapy restores muscle function and skeletal misalignment, which contribute to bladder and bowel control loss, sexual dysfunction, and pelvic pain. A physical therapist with specialized training in pelvic floor health can address the muscle or nerve problems that often cause or worsen pelvic floor disorders.

Nonsurgical options include inserting a pessary (a silicon device) into the vagina to support the pelvic organs.

Schedule an Appointment

Houston Methodist Center for Restorative Pelvic Medicine experts offer a variety of treatment options that can improve your quality of life — and get you back to feeling your best.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/crpm or call 713.441.9229 to schedule an appointment.

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

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Sleep Apnea Treatment:

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS

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f snoring and other sleep problems are interrupting quality sleep for you or a loved one, it’s time to do something about it. Getting treatment for obstructive sleep apnea can help Dr. Omar G. you get a better night’s Ahmed rest and avoid serious health consequences, including high blood pressure, heart disease and heart attack, type 2 diabetes, stroke and other health risks.

“Aside from the impacts it can have on your sleep, productivity and relationship, sleep apnea is one of the so-called silent killers that should not be ignored,” warns Dr. Omar Ahmed, board-certified otolaryngologist (ENT) doctor specializing in sleep surgery at Houston Methodist Hospital.

Depending on your condition, sleep apnea treatments can range from breathing machines to surgery. Your doctor can help you understand which option is best for you. Dr. Ahmed is here to answer common questions about sleep apnea treatment options.

HOW DO CPAP MACHINES WORK?

Many sleep apnea sufferers are prescribed a sleep apnea machine called a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine.

As the machine works, it delivers oxygen into your nose and mouth via a mask. This air keeps your airway open, preventing any interruptions in your breathing.

“Treating sleep apnea using a CPAP machine can lower your risk for chronic health conditions as well as improve sleep and daytime productivity. However, people

may find the mask uncomfortable to wear all night. You need to use it every night to gain the full benefits of this machine,” said Dr. Ahmed.

WHEN IS SURGERY NEEDED FOR SLEEP APNEA?

If you cannot tolerate using a CPAP machine or have very severe sleep apnea that can’t be fully managed by a CPAP machine, sleep surgery may be an option.

“There are various surgeries for sleep apnea, depending on where your specific obstruction is located,” explained Ahmed.

To locate the obstruction, a druginduced sleep endoscopy is performed.

While you’re asleep, an endoscope is used to look at your throat and airway to identify exactly where you’re obstructing.

“With this information, we can choose the surgical option that’s best for you,” Dr. Ahmed added.

Get Help for Sleep Apnea If you have moderate-to-severe sleep apnea and are considering hypoglossal nerve stimulation, visit houstonmethodist.org/neurology/ sleep-disorders/obstructive-sleep-apnea/ or call 713.441.1368.

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WHAT IS HYPOGLOSSAL NERVE STIMULATION FOR SLEEP APNEA?

Advancements in sleep apnea treatment have made new, less-invasive procedures an option for treating moderate to severe sleep apnea. “Hypoglossal nerve stimulation is a treatment that uses a device to stimulate your hypoglossal nerve, which is the nerve responsible for controlling several of the muscles in your tongue,” Dr. Ahmed explained.

This device, which is implanted in the upper chest using just two small incisions, is only turned on while you’re asleep. It works by detecting respiration and, each time you breathe, stimulating your hypoglossal nerve to push your tongue forward, opening your airway.

Eligibility criteria for hypoglossal nerve stimulation include: Having sleep apnea that’s moderate to severe (not mild) Obstruction that occurs at the palate and/or base of the tongue BMI less than 35 “For those who fit the criteria, hypoglossal nerve stimulation is proven to work remarkably well. In addition, it can eliminate the need for a CPAP machine,” Dr. Ahmed said.

CLINICAL TRIALS:

A Promising Cancer Treatment Option

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oes the term “clinical trial” bring to mind risky treatments being tested on seriously ill patients as a last resort? If so, that image couldn't be further from the truth. Rather, a clinical trial is a treatment option that allows patients to access potentially groundbreaking approaches or therapies currently being developed.

Dr. Eric “Cancer clinical trials often test new kinds Bernicker of surgery or combinations of chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy,” said Dr. Eric Bernicker, board-certified medical oncologist and Medical Director, Clinical Trials Office with Houston Methodist Dr. Mary and Ron Neal Cancer Center. “It’s important to know that clinical trials aren’t just for late-stage cancers. We offer clinical trials for various stages of cancer that address the full spectrum of cancer care.”

When you participate in a clinical trial, you’re also contributing to medical research that may help others in the future.

“In oncology, we’ve had unparalleled developments in targeted therapies, expansion of molecular testing and immunotherapy combinations. These advances would’ve been unthinkable if patients hadn’t participated in these trials, and there remains work to be done,” Bernicker noted.

Black, Asian and Latino communities, and including more people from rural areas. At Houston Methodist, we’re uniquely set to improve the diversity of our clinical trials because of the vast geographical reach and the diversity of our state,” Bernicker said.

FINDING A CLINICAL TRIAL

Houston Methodist researchers are actively working on every aspect of cancer treatment with the purpose of sharing that innovation with the Houston community. “Physicians and medical researchers work closely together to bring advances to our patients as quickly and safely as possible,” Bernicker added.

Clinical trials are available at all campus locations and offer a range of studies and innovative therapies in a number of areas, including: Bone marrow transplantation Leading surgical techniques Chemotherapy Prevention in high-risk Imaging technology populations Targeted therapy advancements Latest radiation techniques At Houston Methodist, we understand that navigating all the aspects of cancer care can be exhausting. “Out-of-town travel for clinical trials can be a burden for some patients, which is why it makes sense to bring clinical trials out to the communities whenever possible,” Bernicker added.

WHY CONSIDER A CLINICAL TRIAL?

Taking part in a clinical trial helps you take an active role in your health care. The research staff meets with you regularly to monitor your health and safety. You’ll continue to work with your primary care provider or oncologist, who’ll make sure any research medication doesn’t interfere with your other medicines. And you can stop participating at any time.

ARE RISKS INVOLVED?

You may suffer side effects or a bad reaction to the treatment you’re receiving; however, the government regulates most clinical trials to ensure safeguards are in place. For example, participants can’t be exposed to experimental drugs with unreasonable risks. You also may have to make many trips to the study site, be hospitalized, or undergo complicated medical dosages. Remember, too, that the experimental treatment you receive doesn’t guarantee effectiveness. Talk at length with your doctor to determine whether a trial is right for you.

WHAT TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR The more you know, the better prepared and more at ease you’ll be about participating in a clinical trial. Plan to ask your doctor: What’s the trial’s purpose?

Why do doctors and researchers believe the experimental treatment will be effective?

How do the benefits, possible risks and side effects compare with those of my current medication?

How long is the trial?

Who pays for the treatment, and will I be reimbursed for other expenses?

How will I know the treatment is working, and will I receive the trial results?

EXPANDING PARTICIPATION AND EQUITY

Increasing awareness about clinical trials is key to better outcomes for all patients. “People should know that they have options, and they have a choice to participate in clinical trials,” Bernicker said.

“From a biology and scientific standpoint as well as an equity standpoint, it’s essential that we do a better job of expanding participation in clinical trials to a much more diverse group of participants. That means enrolling more women and people from

Learn More If you have questions about clinical trials or how to participate, talk with your doctor or oncologist. Visit houstonmethodist.org/cancer/clinical-trials to learn more about clinical trials at Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center.

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When Is the Right Time for

Joint Replacement?

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oint pain from arthritis can interfere with your everyday activities and limit your ability to work, play and enjoy life. Arthritis is a common problem, and Dr. Timothy you’ll find a multitude Brown of medications and treatments designed to provide relief and improve mobility. But how do you know if the timing is right to get a hip or knee replacement?

“You know it’s time to think about surgery when the pain prevents you from doing activities you enjoy, whether that’s going on a hunting or fishing trip, golfing, or even just taking your grandkids to a ballgame,” said Dr. Timothy Brown, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with Houston Methodist Hospital.

When knee or hip pain bothers you every day, keeps you awake at night and affects your quality of life, it’s time to see a doctor. Although the decisions and the time frames are different for everyone, the path to treatment usually starts with talking to your primary care doctor or an orthopedic specialist. They can evaluate your joint pain and develop a treatment plan that’s customized for you.

EVALUATING JOINT PAIN

First, you may go through an assessment of pain and discuss your ability to function in everyday activities. Your doctor will order X-rays, do a physical exam and ask questions about your joint pain. Next, they may ask the following questions to evaluate the severity of your condition and determine the next steps: Do you have frequent or intense joint pain with activity?

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DON’T LET JOINT PAIN SLOW YOU DOWN Are you dealing with joint pain in your daily routine? You don’t have to accept joint pain as part of your life. You have the power to overcome the obstacles standing in your way so you can focus on the benefits of treatment. Break free from limitations and common misconceptions, such as: I’m too young to have joint problems. Reality: It’s not uncommon to have arthritis in your 40s and 50s. Early diagnosis can help provide relief and prevent worse problems from developing in the future.

Joint pain is part of aging. Reality: Joint pain is very common, especially as you age, but it doesn’t have to prevent you from doing the things you love.

I don’t have time for a long recovery. Reality: Advanced treatment techniques and targeted physical therapy make it possible to recover quickly and return to light activities within a few weeks.

Having joint replacement surgery is a decision that can change your life. Choosing the right treatment path can result in decreased pain, better mobility and improved quality of life.

Do you have difficulty walking, standing up or bending over?

Are you experiencing stiffness and a limited range of motion?

Do you have inflammation, stiffness and swelling in the joint?

Do you suffer pain while at rest or does pain keep you up at night?

Have you been experiencing symptoms for a long time?

Are your symptoms getting worse?

Does your pain persist even after taking over-the-counter pain medications?

Are you suffering side effects from pain medications?

Is joint pain wearing you down mentally and emotionally?

EXPLORING TREATMENT OPTIONS As a next step, your doctor may recommend conservative and nonsurgical treatments to relieve your joint pain. Medications and steroid injections may help reduce pain.

Using a brace or doing physical therapy can help provide stability, build strength and maintain range of motion. Losing extra weight is also very helpful by taking the pressure off your joints.

Make an Appointment

“We take a conservative approach to management of hip and knee arthritis, which means we don’t usually recommend surgery as the first line of treatment,” Brown said.

Nonsurgical treatment options are intended to help you stay active and function better with joint pain.

However, sometimes they don’t provide enough relief, or they may stop working after a while. Seeing an orthopedic specialist can help you understand all your options, including when to consider joint replacement surgery.

PLANNING YOUR JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY

If you’re a candidate for joint replacement surgery, you’ll discuss with your doctor the next steps involved in planning your surgery. Taking a proactive approach in the weeks and months before surgery can help set you up for a speedy recovery. “There’s a lot we do to help you prepare for joint replacement surgery. We spend time on education, nutrition, physical therapy, mindfulness training and discussing expectations about pain,” Brown added.

Take the next step and schedule an evaluation with an orthopedic specialist.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/jointpain or call 713.441.9000 to schedule an appointment.

Recovery times are different for every patient, but most people go home the same day of surgery and are back to work in six to eight weeks. The bulk of the recovery happens in the first two months after surgery, but it’s common to continue making progress with strength and mobility up to 12 months after surgery.

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IMPROVING STROKE RECOVERY

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he road to recovery from a stroke can be difficult to navigate — and it’s different for everyone. The good news is that advances in stroke rehabilitation can help restore mobility, communication, and cognitive and social skills. Rehabilitation may begin 24 to 48 hours after a stroke while you’re in the hospital and continue after you return home. Life may not be the same Dr. Timea after a stroke, but survivors can make progress Hodics regaining abilities and independence with poststroke rehabilitation.

"Our stroke recovery program is coordinated by our team of doctors, therapists and nurses trained to help patients achieve the best possible long-term outcomes,” said Dr. Timea Hodics, a neurologist, director of the Stroke Recovery Program with Houston Methodist Hospital.

A TEAM APPROACH TO RECOVERY

“We’re creating stronger pathways for stroke recovery with an interdisciplinary approach that elevates both both clinical care and research,” Hodics shared. Therapy sessions are designed to help patients relearn basic activities, such as eating and getting dressed, or improve finer motor and cognitive functions.

“Sometimes the most meaningful progress is measured by performing everyday tasks; for example, pulling a zipper with your weak arm or cooking a meal for yourself— especially when you were told in the past that no further improvement was expected,” Hodics said.

COMMON CHALLENGES FROM STROKE

A stroke survivor may be faced with one or more of the following challenges: Loss of motor control, usually on one side of the body. The face, arms, legs, or entire side of the body may be paralyzed or weak. Stroke patients may also have problems with swallowing, coordination and balance. “Our program involves high-intensity physical and occupational therapy schedules to improve mobility, increase range of motion and regain strength,” Hodics added.

Sensory disturbances and pain can interfere with a person’s ability to feel pain, temperature and touch. It’s also common to experience numbness or odd sensations in a paralyzed or weakened limb. A physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist uses nonsurgical treatments and therapies to help reduce pain and address spasticity management.

Speech and language problems due to stroke hinder the ability to speak, write and understand language. Thinking and memory impairments may also be apparent with shortened attention spans, loss of short-term memory and difficulty learning new tasks. “Speech-language pathology is a critical part of our comprehensive program,” Hodics noted.

Emotional disturbance and personality changes may be caused by the physical effects of brain damage. “All stroke patients

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Learn More At Houston Methodist Hospital, we’re always working to bring the latest advancements to our communities. Visit houstonmethodist.org/eddy-scurlock-stroke-center or call 713.441.3850 to learn more about stroke care and rehabilitation.

are screened for neuropsychological concerns. Depression is commonly experienced by stroke survivors and can be treated with medication and/or counseling,” Hodics said.

Sleep-related issues can take a toll when you’re trying to recover from a stroke. “It’s important to address untreated sleep issues so you can put your energy toward recovery,” Hodics added. “There are ways to optimize medications to promote brain plasticity, which is important in forming new neural pathways in the brain.”

A healthy diet, aerobic exercise, pleasurable recreational activity, drivers evaluation, and vocational evaluation are very important, as well as caregiver and stroke community support that is enhanced by our stroke social workers and our stroke support group.

We consider the patients part of our team, and received some of the best ideas for research and clinical support from them.

ADVANCEMENTS IN STROKE RECOVERY

“New advancements include using telerehabilitation to provide remote evaluation and treatment sessions for patients and monitor their progress at home,” Hodics explained. “We’re also using our multidisciplinary stroke recovery team to start the newest FDA-approved clinical treatment for our eligible stroke patients; it uses vagus nerve stimulation to improve their motor recovery. We're establishing a neurophysiology lab for stroke recovery, where we’re conducting new clinical trials in noninvasive stimulation and other cutting-edge research in stroke rehabilitation.”

Emergency Care, Urgent Care or Primary Care:

KNOW WHERE TO GO When you’re in pain or feeling very ill, where should you go for medical care?

Choosing the right place at the right time can help you get the care you need.

EMERGENCY CARE If you are experiencing a serious or life-threatening medical emergency, please call 911. Symptoms that generally signal an emergency include: Allergic reaction with trouble breathing, swelling or hives Chest pain or squeezing sensation in the chest Broken bones

VIRTUAL URGENT CARE Make an appointment with a Virtual Urgent Care doctor for non-life-threating illnesses, such as:

Coughs, cold or flu

PRIMARY CARE OFFICE VISIT Make an appointment with your primary care doctor for the following: Minor health concerns

Constipation or diarrhea Fevers Heartburn

Preventive and routine care

Screenings and vaccinations

Pink or red eyes Head, neck or spine injury Sinus infections Intense pain, including severe headache or abdominal pain

Sore throat or strep throat

Loss of consciousness

Urinary tract infection (women only)

Major burns or electric shock Pregnancy-related issues, such as severe cramping or bleeding Poisoning or suspected overdose Shortness of breath or trouble breathing Sudden slurred speech, visual changes, or weakness on one side of the body Suicidal thoughts

Uncontrolled bleeding

The above conditions can also be addressed with a primary care doctor.

If you can’t get in to see your doctor immediately, you can visit one of our same-day clinics.

Managing health conditions (diabetes, asthma, heart disease, etc.)

Referrals to specialty care If you have a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma, your doctor can advise you about symptoms that may require emergency, urgent, or routine care.

Find Care Near You

Emergency Care: Visit houstonmethodist.org/er to find emergency care near you. If you are experiencing a serious or life-threatening medical emergency, please call 911.

Virtual Urgent Care: Access nonemergency urgent care 24/7 via video visit.

Download the MyMethodist app or visit houstonmethodist.org/virtual-care to learn more.

Same-Day Clinics: Same-day sick visits for many common health conditions are also available. Visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg/same-day-clinics or call 713.394.6724 to schedule an appointment.

Office Visit: To find a provider, visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg/central or call 713.394.6724 to schedule an appointment with a doctor at Houston Methodist Primary Care Group.

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LEADING THE WAY IN

LUNG CARE Advanced Lung Disease Program Offers Hope

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f you’re coping with symptoms of chronic lung disease, you likely feel overwhelmed by the gravity of the situation.

The need for specialized care and support for Dr. Howard J. lung disease has never Huang been more pressing.

The Advanced Lung Disease Program at Houston Methodist J.C. Walter Jr. Transplant Center focuses on helping people with advanced stages of lung disease.

Dr. J. Georges The Advanced Lung Youssef Disease Program was initially developed to serve the complex needs of pretransplant patients and those suffering from advanced lung disease.

"In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re seeing a growing need to provide care for an influx of patients experiencing serious post-COVID lung problems,” said Dr. J. Georges Youssef, pulmonologist with the Houston Methodist Lung Center. “This program provides clinical management of organ failure in very ill patients, offering a full spectrum of care for patients who are waiting for lung transplants and others managing

LUNG CONDITIONS WE TREAT When you have recurring or chronic symptoms, your doctor may recommend seeing a lung specialist. A pulmonologist is a specialist who treats and manages illnesses affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including: Chronic obstructive Cystic fibrosis Occupational lung disease Pulmonary fibrosis pulmonary disease Emphysema Post-COVID-19 lung disease Pulmonary hypertension (COPD) Interstitial lung disease

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TESTS FOR DIAGNOSING LUNG DISEASE Pulmonologists use several tests to diagnose complex problems in the lungs and respiratory system: Blood tests check how well oxygen passes from your lungs to your bloodstream.

Bronchoscopy uses a thin tube with a camera to look down the throat and windpipe into the bronchi (small airways).

Cardiopulmonary exercise tests help determine if the problem is related to the heart or lungs.

Chest X-ray or CT scan may be used to get images of the chest and lungs.

Spirometry is a pulmonary function test that measures how much air you breathe in and out, and how fast you can blow air out.

symptoms of irreversible lung disease,” said Dr. Howard Huang, a pulmonologist with the Houston Methodist Lung Center.

WARNING SIGNS OF LUNG DISEASE

Advanced lung disease is when lung disease has worsened to the point where lung function has dropped significantly, leading to significant limitation and disability. The three main categories of lung disease include: Obstructive lung diseases involve a narrowing of the airways, making it harder to breathe out.

Restrictive lung disorders occur when the lungs don’t have the capacity to expand properly, which may be due to lung tissue damage.

Pulmonary vascular diseases affect the blood vessels that go through the lung, causing low levels of oxygen in the blood.

“Limiting your activities to cope with symptoms could be a sign that the lung disease is becoming significant,” said Huang. If you experience any of the following, you should review your symptoms with a doctor or pulmonologist: Chest pain Chronic bronchitis Difficulty breathing Dizziness Fatigue Severe or recurring cough Uncontrolled asthma Wheezing

SPECIALIZED TREATMENTS FOR LUNG DISEASE

Early diagnosis can make a significant difference for patients with lung disease.

“Seeing patients earlier in the course of the disease gives us more latitude to be preemptive in how we respond to the disease. In some cases, medical interventions can help avoid the need for an immediate transplant, which can

potentially add years to someone’s life,” Huang noted.

“A lung transplant is not an option for every patient, and we focus on other options to reverse disease, slow down progression, or prevent the need for transplant,” Youssef said. Treatments for managing lung disease include: Antibiotics to treat infections Blood pressure medications to treat pulmonary hypertension Blood thinners to prevent blood clots Medications to open airways Medications to reduce fibrosis (scarring) of the lungs Oxygen therapy Pulmonary rehabilitation under the supervision of a physician and respiratory therapists “Through research and innovation, we’re leading the way in searching for better treatments through clinical trials and managing pulmonary conditions with new therapies,” Youssef added.

We’re Here for You

Our team of experts works with you to help manage symptoms so you can breathe easier. Call 346.356.LUNG (5864) or visit houstonmethodist.org/pulmonology/lung-disease/ for more information about the Advanced Lung Disease Program.

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KEEP YOU MOVING without joint pain

Live life without joint pain.

Memorial City

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we know that joint pain affects every part of your life. With treatment plans customized for you, our specialists offer a full range of advanced nonsurgical and surgical techniques. Our expert joint care includes:

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Texas Medical Center

• Innovative pain control methods • Physical therapy to improve mobility and range of motion • The latest technology, including minimally invasive surgical techniques that help reduce recovery time

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