April 2014 Bayou Catholic Magazine - Wellness

Bayou

Catholic

The magazine for the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Ba ou

FLIP IT

for the Regular Issue of Bayou Catholic

wellness HOUMA, LA ~ APRIL 2014 ~ COMPLIMENTARY

Contents

On Our Cover

Inner beauty Comes from the heart

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Doctor of pediactrics Kenneth Cruse, examines a healthy seven month old baby boy at his office in Gray. See page four of this Bayou Wellness special for Dr. Cruse’s article on childhood obesity.

Cover photo by Lawrence Chatagnier

The perfect exercise

Protecting your heart

Walking exercises the whole body

Do you know your risk?

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Pediatric dentistry

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‘The big authority on little teeth’

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A Life Wellness Plan Healthy living at all ages

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Bayou Wellness

Childhood Guest Columnist

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Dr. Kenneth Cruse

A growing epidemic in our nation today is childhood obesity.

It has become a real problem for the health of our youth and leads to multiple other medical problems that have traditionally been associated with adult disease.

There have been multiple news reports on the subject and there is increasing awareness of the problem in the community. This is important because this is not only an individual problem, but it also is a problem for society as a whole.

There are many cultural influences that can increase the chance for obesity in children to develop. Our southern Louisiana culture has a tradition of celebration of life and family, and that usually involves plenty of food, and not always the healthiest kind. A real challenge for our culture is to find ways to enjoy life and protect it at the same time.

A general definition of obesity is a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 95 percent for age.

The BMI is a calculation using an individual’s weight, height and age. A normal BMI is obtained when the proportions of weight to height are within the range of normal for age. This calculation has become a basic measurement in wellness visits in children greater than two years of age.

It is the starting block for nutritional counseling. In our office, we calculate the BMI and explain to families its meaning and try to set realistic goals. Since childhood is a period of rapid growth and development, the BMI can change quickly. Hence, we look at this value throughout the maturation period of childhood. The BMI is also used in adults; however, it does not change with age as rapidly as it does in children.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2014

obesity: A growing medical dilemma

The three big disease states that are potentially associated with obesity in children include hypertension, non-insulin dependent diabetes and hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol). Other medical complications include sleep apnea, gallbladder disease, polycystic ovary disease (in girls), and orthopedic problems as a result of excess weight borne by the skeleton. There is great concern that the early onset of diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol issues will have a significant impact on the adult health of affected children.

This in turn could have a big impact on quality of life as well as the expected lifespan.

Identifying the problem is the easy part. The BMI objectifies the issue: > 95 percent is obesity. The next step is to determine the cause of obesity. While there are a number of medical conditions such as thyroid disease and gynecological issues that can contribute to obesity, there is also the issue of genetics. We are sometimes blessed by our family tree with medical issues such as asthma, allergies and inflammatory bowel disease. We also see height and weight as inherited issues. This does not mean nothing can be done to help the problem. It only means some people have to work harder than others to avoid obesity. The first step for treatment and prevention of obesity includes an evaluation for medical conditions that cause it, such as hypothyroidism and other medical conditions. Once that has been cleared, then we must focus

on lifestyle choices to combat this epidemic.

The two most important lifestyle choices to avoid obesity are exercise and good nutrition. It has been proven that an active lifestyle can prevent the onset of obesity and its related disease states. This does not mean that everyone has to be an Olympic athlete. However, in today’s world where children are glued to their electronics there is room for exercise. When counseling patients about exercise, I have to get a little creative in my questioning. I let them know that thumb exercises on their favorite electronic games do not count as significant exercise. On the other hand, patients do not need to work out for four hours per day at high intensity levels in programs such as P90X or Cross Fit. However, walking for 30 minutes 3-4 times per week does help create a healthier body and can prevent the development of obesity.

The second lifestyle choice that can help prevent obesity is good nutrition. This is especially difficult in our culture with its love for food, and lots of it, and not always the healthiest dishes. I counsel patients on this issue using the concepts of size and content. The proper proportions at meals are essential to good nutrition. Our culture has a habit of piling on the jambalaya or crawfish and going back for multiple “helpings.” I challenge patients to take more reasonable proportions and limit “seconds” and eliminate “thirds.” I also discuss healthy snacks such as

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fruits and vegetables. It is important to use healthy snacks to avoid severe hunger that leads to overeating at the next meal.

The content of the food we eat is also an issue. We use a lot of high fat foods in our cooking, and we all agree that makes it taste that much better. A lot of my patients are surprised, however, when they take my advice and try some less fatty ingredients in preparing meals. The flavor can be quite appealing. Our medical community is blessed to have some talented and skilled dietitians affiliated with our hospitals. They are available for dietary counseling to help families start kids on a healthy diet while maintaining our cultural identity.

This is a multi-generational problem. Our customs of cooking, celebrating, and enjoying life have been passed down through many generations. Our not so good habits of using unhealthy ingredients and excessive proportions coupled with little exercise have also come down through the generations. It is extremely important that we begin a new tradition to pass down to our descendants which includes healthy choices and routine exercise. It would be a tremendous legacy for us to pass down healthy lifestyle choices to the next generations in order to improve their health.

(Dr. Kenneth Cruse has a private practice with offices in Houma and Thibodaux. He attended Loyola University in New Orleans, St. Louis University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO, and did his pediatric residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX.)

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Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist

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Father Mike Bergeron

Every year People Magazine, and a host of others, feature the 10 most handsome men or 10 most beautiful women. The criteria they use is purely physical – much of which the individual has no responsibility for. It’s simply the body we are born into. Still, outer beauty is paramount to many people.

One of the most popular dating “apps” is called Tinder, a locationbased dating service which relies on a person’s picture and location to make a connection. If both parties find each other “hot,” then they “hook-up.” It doesn’t matter if they are a good person or a narcissistic demon, their physical characteristics are paramount.

Our fixation with clothing, plastic surgery and even colored contact lenses demonstrate our obsession with our looks and the looks of others. But what about inner beauty?

In pastoral counseling, I’ve heard people say: “there isn’t anybody out there for me.”

Somehow, I have to gently inform them that they are right. It may be hard to find someone with blonde hair, blue eyes, six foot two, chiseled body, who drives a sports car, makes $250,000

a year, and so forth. Here’s the problem. People are falling in love with bodies and status while ignoring the soul. When it becomes apparent that we have made a mistake, we do the same thing that we do with our televisions, microwaves and refrigerators. We don’t try to fix them; we toss them out and get a new one.

What would happen if we fell in love with another person’s inner beauty instead of outer beauty?

And how do we find someone who is beautiful inside?

Our first stop might be to look for people with “beautiful attitudes” or simply people who live the Beatitudes.

The Beatitudes are universally

acknowledged as the most original and most compelling of the teachings of Jesus. These simple formulas for blessedness are applicable to every human life, regardless of when and where we live. Listen to the roll call of virtues that Jesus extolls: humility, compassion, patience, curiosity, mercy, devotion, gentleness, steadfastness, courage. Doesn’t that sound like a sexy person!

The curious thing about this list, when you back off and look at it, is that it stands foursquare against the dominant values of our culture where aggressiveness, competitiveness, acquisitiveness, hard-headedness, and even ruthlessness are celebrated as

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the “American Way.�

Even stranger still is the fact that Jesus declared that blessedness, plain old everyday happiness, comes only to those who follow his way.

Without getting into each of the Beatitudes in this short article, it might be a good exercise during this Lenten season for each of us to read them from Matthew 5:1-12.

Psychiatrist J.T. Fisher stated in 1951: “If you were to take the sum total of all authoritative articles ever written by the most qualified of psychologists and psychiatrists on the subject of mental hygiene ... you would have an awkward and incomplete summation of the Sermon on the Mount ... . For nearly 2,000 years the Christian world has been holding in its hands the complete answer to its restless and fruitless yearnings. Here rests the blueprint for successful human life with optimism, mental health and contentment.�

Now, where do we find that person who personifies the Beatitudes?

Well, we probably won’t find them on an internet website or in a night club. That’s all about outer beauty.

We find inner beauty by becoming beautiful on the inside ourselves.

That’s when friends will say, “I know just the right person for you!�

They will want someone that they love to be entrusted to you.

We can enflesh the Beatitudes in our own lives by: 1) getting rid of prejudice and refusing to laugh at racist or sexist jokes; 2) letting go of our attachment to money, power, fame and other empty quests; 3) helping the poor, hungry, elderly and others who are not as blessed materially as we are; 4) forgiving not only friends but also enemies and bringing unity and peace to

broken relationships; 5) resolving conflicts without violent words or actions; and 6) living simply and encouraging others to do the same.

That’s inner beauty!

As with everything, there is a danger. These things must come from the heart and not just as a way to make people think good of us. If we do these things just so that others will think well of us, it becomes a narcissistic gesture.

And narcissism, which is rampant in our society, is the foundation of all evil. We all know people who have dark hearts but present themselves as kind souls. They may fool people but they do not live authentic lives, and people closest to them, eventually figure it out.

For us, it is only through prayer and reflection that we can realize how unconditionally God loves us. When we know that love, we become beautiful inside.

Besides becoming beautiful ourselves on the inside, where else can we find that beautiful soul in another person? Well, they are already all around you. The person might be shorter than you want, or chubbier than you want, or balder than you want, or not as educated as you want. But they are all around you. There is that person who stood beside you through thick and thin, loving you, always there when you needed that person most.

And you never gave him/her a second thought. That gorgeous soul is simply waiting for you to notice.

Unfortunately, most of the time it continues to be about looks. This is what our society tells us and we buy into it. How sad. Because beyond that exterior, which will not last, is an interior soul which will live forever. And some of those

people you did not give a second thought to, may have one of the most beautiful souls in the world.

Instead of spending excessive time on clothes shopping, fixing your hair, or waxing your car, take some time to make that soul of yours more beautiful. Say a prayer, make a kind remark to another person, think of a project you can do to make another person’s life a little easier, and do random acts of kindness. But most important, as our Ash Wednesday Gospels tells us, do it from the heart.

The moment we are born, we begin to die. What do you want people to say when you are gone?

Recently I did a funeral for a young woman who not only reflected the Beatitudes, but the entire Gospel.

She wasn’t a celebrity, but people knew her for her goodness. All morning long, the line stretched out the door. The church could barely hold the people. And stories were told about her, such as the time she used her lunch break during chemotherapy at the hospital, to go out and buy and anonymously give a pair of shoes to a hospital worker whose shoes were tattered.

She was the Word made flesh.

Everyone loved her because of her inner beauty.

Oh, how I wish People magazine would feature the 10 most beautiful souls. That young woman would certainly have been on that list.

Which list would you want to be on?

Would you want people to remark that you have such a beautiful body or that you have such a beautiful soul?

Mother Theresa never made it to the cover of Vogue magazine, but she was one of the most beautiful women in the world.

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Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist

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Karen Tycer

You can’t see it, hear it, or even touch it.

Unfortunately, it affects how you view yourself and your self-worth. What is it? … Self-esteem.

What is self-esteem? Self-esteem is a psychological term used to describe an attitude that we have toward self, as well as judgment toward self. Self-esteem also describes how much or how little you value yourself and the things that you do. Self-esteem is not about being perfect or even bragging; it is about knowing what you are good at or not so good at. Self-esteem formation begins as early as infancy and continues throughout adulthood.

Why is self-esteem so important? Having selfesteem is the source of one’s mental health. How you value yourself will reflect in the choices, happiness, goals and emotions you have in your life. Self-esteem gives us direction in our life, as well as allows us to handle criticism when it comes our way. Having selfesteem allows us to make decisions independently and perform well in social situations. Self-esteem allows us to have fulfilling relationships and even guides us to a chosen profession. Once in a chosen profession, self-esteem enables us to have a good attitude and succeed on the job. Having self-esteem is central to everything we do. Just like positive self-esteem allows us to be successful and have meaningful relationships, negative self-esteem can deter us from meeting or even setting goals and set us on a road to failure.

How can parents help develop a healthy sense of self-esteem in their children? Promoting healthy self-esteem is essential to creating a successful future both academically and socially for your child.

One of the best ways parents can develop self-esteem in their children is by listening to their children, not just hearing them. When a parent listens, not hears, they can fully take into account body language, or even messages the child is sending that are not verbal. When people just hear, so much is lost or goes on deaf ears. Also, when you listen to a child, you can stop any negative self talk that may have started. Another way to develop healthy self-esteem is through recognizing your child’s accomplishments, whether they are big or small. Children and even adults want to feel success and be successful. Lastly, children need to receive appropriate attention and affection from parents. No, you don’t need to smother children in hugs and kisses, but they need to know that they are loved, whether that is telling them you love them or attending an event that they are part of.

Children need to see and feel parents’ support

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2014

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Why is self-esteem

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so important?

in their daily lives. Parents are not the only ones to influence a child’s sense of self-esteem. Peers as well as classroom teachers play a major role in their development of self-esteem. Teachers have the authority to ensure that all students in his/her classroom are respected. Teachers can help build a healthy self-esteem by seeing the positive things (big or small) that each child contributes to his/her classroom. Teachers can encourage students to push themselves and do their best at all times. Naturally, we can’t control peer interactions as much as we would like to, but this is why children have to feel support, love, security and safety from home.

If all are in check at home, the child should be able to stand up for his or herself and feel good about themselves … no matter what is said.

In closing, self-esteem allows us to do many things, as children or even as adults. Selfesteem gives you the courage to face challenges head on, try new things, or even pick yourself up after making a mistake. Having positive self-esteem will enable you to make better choices in regards to mind and body. When self-esteem is present, a person can make a definitive attempt to fulfill their goals and be a source of inspiration for others.

(Karen Tycer is the guidance director for Central Catholic High School in Morgan City.)

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Terrebonne Caring for Terrebonne

COVENANT CHRISTIAN ACAD.

ELLENDER MEMORIAL

HOUMA CHRISTIAN

Terrebonne General Medical Center (TGMC) Community Sports Institute is proud to engage in community partnerships to strengthen health and wellness education in Terrebonne Parish.

The Community Sports Institute was created to impact future generations to come through the promotion of healthcare education, disease prevention, and athletic injury prevention. We educate students on healthy strategies while supporting coaches and athletes with medical assistance and proper training techniques to prevent injuries while on the field. Education, Prevention and Care is what we are all about.

TGMC Community Sports Institute is a proud ccommunity partner caring for the Terrebonne Parish Community.

The partnership is also inclusive of all elementary, middle and junior high schools.

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For more information about the Community Sports Institute please call 217-4693

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TPR TERREBONNE RECREATION

Guest Columnist

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Claire Kelbaugh

Back pain is the leading cause of disability in the United States.

As much as 80 percent of the population will experience a back problem at some point in their life. Most cases of back pain are not caused by serious incidents such as a sports injury or automobile accident. Rather, the majority of back pain is caused from poor posture, obesity, physical inactivity, stress or arthritis.

Small adjustments in your body mechanics and lifestyle habits can make a significant impact on the prevention or treatment of back pain. While massage, chiropractic manipulation, and anti-inflammatory medications can relieve pain, getting to the root of the problem will prevent pain before those modalities are needed. n Perfect your posture. Keep ears over the shoulders, shoulders down and back, and a slight curve in your lower back. n Sit less. When you do sit, ensure feet are flat on the floor, weight is evenly distributed between hips, and computer monitors and reading material are even with eye level. Move and stretch often. n Maintain a healthy weight.

Excess weight places stress on the spine and discs. A healthy weight will lighten the load placed on your joints. n Lift properly. Bend at the

Perfect your posture

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Your Spine & Pain Relief Specialists

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knees, carry load close to chest, and ask for assistance when the load is too heavy or awkward. n Stay active. Keeping your body fit, strong and flexible will lessen chances of injury or pain. n Strengthen core, back and ab muscles. Sit on a fitness ball when possible, engage your abdominal muscles throughout everyday movement, and work opposing back muscles to keep the core strong and stable. n Don’t smoke. Smoking reduces the delivery of nutrients to the spinal discs and also slows the healing process making back pain last longer.

If you would like to talk with a health coach about ergonomics or any other general health or wellness related concerns, please contact Sterling Wellness Solutions at 1(800) 838-0337 or visit our website at www.Sterling-Wellness. com.

(Claire Kelbaugh is president of Sterling Wellness Solutions.)

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Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist

W 12

Deacon Lloyd Duplantis

We all know that exercise is good for us and that we should exercise more. When we speak about exercise, we generally are speaking about physical exercise.

But physical exercise without exercising our mind and spirit can actually be destructive. But what exercise can fulfill this “triune” principle of being good for our bodies, minds and spirits?

Healthcare professionals tell us that aerobic exercise (popularly referred to as “cardio”) is extremely important to our overall health.

Standard recommendations are for periods of 20 to 40 minutes of aerobic exercise three to five times a week.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2014

The perfect

exercise

Unlike other exercises like weight lifting, walking exercises the whole body. That is, when you walk, you have to move your legs, arms, feet, hands and many other parts of your body like your head. Walking also exercises your internal organs such as your heart, lungs and digestive system. It is one of the best exercises you can do to exercise your whole body.

If you want to get the most health benefits out of walking it should be strenuous enough to qualify as aerobic exercise. Generally that means that as you are walking you are almost too out of breath to talk easily. On a flat walking surface you can accomplish this

by walking at a brisk pace. When walking on paths with constant or varying grades, and on beaches or other sandy terrain, a normal stride is usually sufficient to attain the aerobic benefit threshold. And if you are walking on a treadmill, set the speed in the range of three to four miles per hour.

The advantages of walking are many. It is low impact and it can be done almost anywhere.

Those features persuade many people to choose walking as their primary source of exercise. For them walking accommodates issues encompassing lifestyle, energy level, tolerance for physical activity, age and more. Walking

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increases energy, stamina and metabolism. Walking increases muscle tone and bone density Besides all these positive aspects of walking, most people never associate a walk in the park with a good night’s sleep, but studies show that regular walkers sleep better and have reduced levels of anxiety and stress. Walking also increases HDL (the “good” cholesterol) and improves the ratio between HDL

LaTour Golf Club, Mathews, LA Friday, May 9, 2014

his treatments).

Father Kneipp found that walking, and especially walking barefoot in various environments, revitalizes and strengthens the body, and can also improve immune functioning by giving the body more energy and overcoming stress. Father Kneipp would treat mostly peasants who couldn’t afford medical care or upon whom traditional medicine had given up hope. However, one of his most famous clients was Pope Leo XIII. So walk on a treadmill if you must but strolling around the neighborhood or walking in the park gives you an opportunity to tone up your body. You also get some fresh air, clear your mind of the challenges of the day and find some time to reflect, pray (especially the rosary) and renew your spirit.

When you walk on a consistent basis, your body, mind and spirit will benefit and it can help you achieve greater balance in your life. Walking – the perfect exercise.

(Deacon Lloyd Duplantis is the owner of Lloyd’s Remedies in Gray.)

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Dear Donor,

On behalf of Haiti Mission, Inc., and the forgotten poor of Haiti, we personally want to invite you to the Fifth Annual Haiti Mission Golf Tournament and Silent Auction. Our primary focus is to provide basic humanitarian aid to the villages of Numero Deux and Ravine Sable, in the Jeremie region of Haiti. With your assistance, Haiti Mission will be able to bring aid to some of the most desperately poor in the Western Hemisphere.

Your contribution will enable us to continue to fund projects as outlined below.

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and LDL. Walking also reduces the risks of diabetes by lowering blood sugar and body fat levels. Overall, walking improves wellness, fitness and happiness.

Here in South Louisiana we pride ourselves as being a “lagniappe” culture. We like to surprise people by giving them a little extra and they love it! Maybe you never thought about dew having special health benefits and being a little lagniappe to walking, but it can be.

On nice, pleasant mornings when the dew is glistening in the early morning sun, take your shoes off and enjoy the unique sensation of walking (or just standing) in the dew covered grass. According to Sebastian Kneipp (1821-97), a German priest, walking in the morning dew is considered a form of hydrotherapy. Father Kneipp was a famous naturopath and botanist who developed many treatments for various ailments using the healing power of plants and water. He personally overcame tuberculosis with some dramatic hydrotherapies (walking barefoot in the dew – well, if you excuse the pun – was a “walk in the park” compared to some of

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• Format: 4-person scramble Water Wells Wells Water • Shotgun start at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. (Please Educa-on Education arrive 30 minutes prior to start) Housing Housing Economic Development Economic Development • Mulligan packages available per team member Administra-ve Costs Administrative Costs on the day of the tournament.

God Bless You, Deacon Lloyd and Faie Duplantis, Directors of Haiti Mission, Inc.

For more information on the silent auction, call 985-804-3112 or visit haitimissioninc.com to view the items available!

• Gift bags

• Beverages and food provided throughout the course.

• Prizes awarded to the top three teams, longest drive, first person to make a hole-in-one and closest-to-the-pin.

For golfing information or to help in any way, call 985-209-3228 or visit haitimissioninc.com.

www.bayoucatholic.com

Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist

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Dr. P. Mark Neal

Nobody wants skin cancer.

Nobody wants to look older than their age. That is why it is important that you protect your skin from the sun’s rays which contain ultraviolet radiation.

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is responsible for the vast majority of skin cancers as well as many of the wrinkles and dark spots that show up as you age. You accumulate sun damage throughout your lives from your sun exposure, and once you get it, there is no great way to get rid of it. The following are some tips to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays:

Staying safe in the sun: Ways to protect yourself Wear sunscreen every day, even if it is overcast or you won’t be out in the sun much. Broad spectrum sunscreens that block UVA and UVB radiation are best. If you put it on as thickly as recommended 15 SPF is sufficient, but I usually recommend at least a 30 SPF sunscreen because most people only apply a very thin layer. Even if you are getting only 15 minutes of sun a day running errands, that sun exposure accumulates over many years.

Don’t forget your lips. Apply sunscreen or a lip balm with SPF there, too.

While out in direct sunlight, reapply sunscreen every two

hours. Whether you are gardening, fishing or relaxing at the beach, you should reapply sunscreen to exposed skin for continued sun protection. If you are swimming or sweating, you should reapply even more often.

Don’t forget your hat and protective clothing. Hats are great for sun protection on your scalp where you may not want to put sunscreen, and there are many options for long-sleeved, lightweight, breathable shirts with built in sun protection.

Wear sunglasses while you are out in the sun. The sun’s ultraviolet radiation can not only damage your skin, it can also

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affect your eyes. Wear sunglasses to decrease your risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.

Avoid tanning beds! Tanning beds significantly increase your risk of all forms of skin cancer. If you feel like you have to have a tan, get a fake one. There are tanning lotions that work well that you can use at home, and most tanning salons offer spray tans.

Troubleshooting: Now that you have the basics, let’s cover some hurdles that you might need to clear. n If you don’t like the way a lotion feels, try a gel sunscreen. n If your sunscreen drips in your eyes when you sweat, try a “sport” sunscreen. n If you are worried about your vitamin D levels, you can take an over the counter supplement to get your daily vitamin D. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis or you are just worried about vitamin D deficiency, your primary care doctor can check your vitamin D levels to see if you need prescription replacement. n Don’t get a “base tan.” Your

body tans due to DNA damage from ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

This same DNA damage is what causes skin cancer. Once you get a “base tan,” it provides only a small amount of protection from future sun exposure.

If you’ve already had a significant amount of sun damage, it is never too late to start protecting yourself.

You may still have an increased risk of skin cancer, but you should keep that risk as low as possible. If you get a pimple-like bump or ulcer that won’t heal, a red scaly patch that is getting bigger, changing moles, or skin growths that bleed with minimal trauma, find a boardcertified dermatologist near you to evaluate any suspicious lesions.

The earlier you catch a skin cancer, the easier it is to treat.

(Dr. P. Mark Neal is a board certified dermatologist that practices in Houma, Morgan City and Galliano. He was raised in Thibodaux and went to college and medical school at LSU. He completed his dermatology residency training at Tulane where he served as chief resident.)

“We only get one heart, and sometimes we only get one chance to save it. Don’t blow that chance.”

�e a survivor.

At 55, Kim Waldrup was shocked to learn that she had suffered a heart attack. But thanks to the expert cardiology team at CIS, she survived and can enjoy time with her family.

She encourages others to learn their risk and prevent heart disease before it strikes.

Call to schedule an appointment: 1.800.425.2565 | www.cardio.com www.bayoucatholic.com

15

Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist

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Dr. Matt Beyer

“Doc, I have sinus problems.”

This common complaint is due to inflammation of the lining of the nasal passages and sinuses.

More than 37 million people are diagnosed with sinusitis every year in the United States.

Causes Sinusitis can result from colds (viral infections), allergies, environmental irritant or pollution exposure, and bacterial and fungal infections. Narrowing of the passageways of the sinuses or nose and the presence of polyps can predispose patients to recurrent sinus infections.

Symptoms Symptoms of sinusitis include headache, facial pain and pressure, sore teeth, fever, nasal congestion and obstruction, and yellow or green drainage.

Treatment Treatment of sinusitis can be as simple as avoiding the causative agents. For example, by reducing exposure to allergic triggers and pollutants one can lessen the swelling of the sinus membranes that can lead to sinusitis. Upper respiratory infections can be reduced by frequent hand washing or hand sanitizers which can also reduce the likelihood of contracting sinusitis. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, with regular exercise, adequate sleep and a balanced healthy diet can strengthen our immune system and help us naturally fight off infectious causes. Often patients can attempt to treat sinus symptoms with over the counter (OTC) medications. These OTC cold remedies come in different combinations.

Antihistamines can be effective for allergy symptoms like sneezing, clear runny nose and itchy eyes. Saline (salt water) nasal sprays can help

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2014

‘Doc, I have

s u n si problems’

humidify and clean the sinuses and nasal passages. Decongestants can shrink swollen mucous membranes.

It is important to follow all directions and precautions on OTC medication labels and make sure the ingredients treat your specific symptoms. If symptoms do not improve after several days or if they are severe, then a visit to the physician is indicated.

Medical The physician will determine the cause of your symptoms and tailor a specific treatment for each patient. For acute symptoms that don’t respond to OTC medicines, sometimes an antibiotic is necessary.

Other prescription medicines, injections or nose sprays may be prescribed. In-office irrigations can provide immediate relief. Evaluation for allergies and assessment of the immune system can be performed. Any anatomical abnormalities can be evaluated with nasal endoscopy performed in the office. Frequent recurrent or chronic symptoms may require further intervention.

Surgical Newer technology like balloon

sinuplasty can be effective for certain patients. In this procedure a small balloon is placed over a wire into the sinus opening and inflated in order to enlarge the natural sinus opening. It can be performed in the office with minimal recovery time or used in conjunction with outpatient surgical procedures.

If significant obstruction or extensive polyps are present, then some patients will benefit from endoscopic sinus surgery. Surgery can be performed with computer guided stereotactic technology that allows for a more thorough and safer procedure. Surgery is performed entirely through the nostrils with no external scarring.

So the next time you feel like saying, “Doc, I have sinus problems” try some of these remedies and preventative measures at home.

If they don’t work, then seek the advice of a physician.

(Dr. Matt Beyer is a board certified otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeon – ear, nose & throat physician – with offices in Houma and Thibodaux. For appointments, call (985) 872-0423.)

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Guest Columnist

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Steven Marcello, DDS

What is a pediatric dentist? A pediatric dental specialist is the equivalent of a pediatrician who provides dental care for infants, children through adolescence, including children and adults with special care needs. He or she has received four years of dental education followed by an additional two to three years of post-doctoral training in children’s dental health.

Training also includes care for those children with physical and medical disabilities. The pediatric dentist is recognized as the primary oral health care provider and a resource for specialty

referral, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) refers to us as “The Big Authority on Little Teeth.”

Many people ask “When should my child see the dentist?” The answer is before his or her first birthday (between 6-12 months of age.) We want to establish a “dental home” for you and your child. The dental home will provide you a comprehensive, continuously accessible, coordinated and family centered home.

A pediatric dental office is typically designed to provide a kid friendly appearance. The dental staff is specially trained to treat your child in a friendly, safe and caring environment. They are trained to help a parent understand proper dental care to lessen a child’s fear. We want to help your child to want to see the dentist.

Many people question “why should a child see the pediatric dentist at such an early age when they only have a few teeth.” This first visit is an educational and informative visit. The staff or pediatric dentist will demonstrate

the proper technique for brushing and provide information on diet and nutrition, bottle or cup feeding, and the proper use of fluoride toothpaste and fluoridated water.

Many children still go to bed with a cup or bottle with juice or milk. This is a topic for discussion, and the dentist will show parents the harm this may cause. The only thing a child should have in a cup or bottle at night while sleeping is water.

The use of a pacifier and thumb sucking will also be discussed. The AAPD advocates that these habits should be discontinued before the child’s permanent teeth erupt.

To close, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry along with its members, encourage you to seek a pediatric dentist for all your child’s dental needs. If you have any questions, resources are available through the Academy and your local pediatric dentist.

(Dr. Steven Marcello is a graduate of LSU Dental School and Boston University School of Graduate Dentistry, and has been practicing in Thibodaux since 1986.) www.bayoucatholic.com

Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist

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Melissa R. Robertson, PHR

Do you ever find yourself sitting at your desk and wondering where has the day gone? Then you realize that you have not stood up since you began your work day.

If this happens to you, you need to “Take a break!” The breaks need only be approximately 15 minutes at a time. However, even the smallest of breaks are still more beneficial than no break at all. During break time you should stand up, walk away from your work, and even stretch. Here are a few reasons why taking periodic breaks throughout the day are beneficial to your health.

Increase in productivity level: In a recent study at a call center, 50 percent of workers who took breaks increased their productivity by more than 30 percent. After a break, you have a sense of renewal and you can tackle tasks with more accuracy.

When your mind is refreshed, fewer mistakes occur.

Circulation: If you are in an office environment where your job requires you to sit behind a desk, not taking a break can lead to impaired circulation. When blood flow to an active muscle is impaired, the oxygen supply is diminished. This can cause weakened muscle function over time. This is also why sometimes you feel fatigued. Poor circulation is related to feeling tired or having the inability to focus.

Physical exhaustion: When we fail to take a break throughout the day, we may become physically exhausted.

Exhaustion can lead to headaches, inability to concentrate, restless sleeping at night, and will cause low levels of energy.

Stress: Working on a tedious project without taking a break,

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2014

TAKE A BREAK can cause both mental and physical stress.

When you recognize that something is becoming too stressful, it’s best to walk away for a few minutes, regain control and resume the project once you are feeling calm and composed.

Stress leads to many other chronic illnesses including heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, low immune systems, and many other serious health conditions.

Injuries: Job related stress injuries may occur if using a repetitive motion without a break.

Also, sitting in an office chair for a prolonged period of time may lead to fidgeting or moving posture which in many cases leads to poor posture. Eyestrain may occur by staring at the computer screen for long periods of time without a break. It is also important to be certain that you are using the correct positioning of your work station to help alleviate some job related stress injuries.

There are several different activities you can do during your

break which will assist in increasing your productivity level, improve circulation, prevent physical exhaustion, alleviate stress, and diminish stress injuries.

Walk away: Be sure while on a break to walk away from your workstation. To receive the full benefits of a break, you should not be interrupted for work related purposes. Talk a walk outside if possible even if it’s for five minutes.

Take deep breaths: Engaging in a few minutes of meditation or prayer will help you to gain the feeling of renewal. Taking deep breaths assists in clearing your mind, increases the oxygen levels in your body, and reduces unwanted physical and mental stress.

Stretch: Engaging in a few stretches or exercises will also reduce the risk of stress injuries.

Exercising allows the body to produce natural hormones which will keep you from feeling fatigued throughout the workday.

Participating in such movement will allow for healthy and

a

proper blood circulation and can reduce high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, and unwanted high levels of stress.

Check your employee’s handbook of policies to see if your company offers scheduled break times throughout the day. Take advantage of that break time.

Be creative as to what you can do during your break that will help you to become a happier, healthier, more engaged, motivated, productive employee.

The following websites offer tips for exercising in the workplace: n http://www.ehs.utoronto.ca/ services/Ergonomics/exercise. htm n http://www.mayoclinic.org/ healthy-living/adult-health/ in-depth/office-exercise/art20047394 OSHA Guidelines on proper workstation set up: n https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/ etools/computerworkstations/ (Melissa R. Robertson, PHR, is the diocesan director of the Office of Human Resources and Employee Benefits.)

21

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Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist

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Mae Hitt, RN, CDE

What's wrong

Feeling tired? Not getting enough sleep because you’re up all night going to the bathroom? No energy to do anything? Can’t seem to quench your thirst?

Have things been getting on your nerves lately?

Have you been thinking that you are getting old because your vision is blurry? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you will want to follow up with your doctor. Although these symptoms could be caused by many different illnesses, you may want to get screened for diabetes.

Diabetes is a disease that affects the way the body uses food. It causes blood glucose (blood sugar) levels to be too high. Normally, during digestion, the body changes carbohydrates (sugar and other starchy foods) and other foods into a form of sugar called glucose. Then, the blood carries the glucose to cells throughout the body. There, with the help of insulin (a hormone made by the pancreas), glucose is changed into quick energy for the cells to use or store for future needs.

T h i s

process of turning food into energy is crucial, because the body depends on food for its every action. If a person has diabetes, something has gone wrong with the normal process of turning food into energy.

The exact cause of diabetes is not known. Researchers know that it tends to run in families. It is seen more often in people that are overweight and lead a sedentary lifestyle. It is also more prevalent in AfricanAmericans, Indians, and Hispanics than in Caucasians.

Once you are diagnosed as having diabetes, it is extremely important that you follow your doctor’s instructions. Depending on the type of diabetes that you have, he will instruct you on the importance of following a meal plan, increasing your physical activity, and if necessary prescribe medication.

It is very helpful to meet with a dietician to learn how to plan your meals. Remember, it is not

a

with me?

about giving up foods that you like to eat, but learning to do portion control and reading food labels.

We also know that people who are overweight have an increased risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes. So, following a meal plan can also help you to lose weight, thereby decreasing your risk. When it comes to increasing your physical activity, you will want to add 30 minutes of movement at least five days per week. It can be as simple and painless as walking or dancing. If you are a couch potato and watch TV all day, switch to a station that has an exercise program for 30 minutes.

If you spend extended periods of time playing video games, switch to an interactive game where you have to get off the couch and move to play along. If you have physical limitations, there are chair exercises that you can use to increase your activity. Whenever your doctor prescribes medication to control your blood sugar, it is important to take them as prescribed. They will also have you monitor your blood sugar readings using a home use glucose monitor.

It is important to keep a record of your readings. You need to bring these readings with you when you go for your checkups. The doctor will use these readings to determine how to adjust your medications or if he needs to start you on medications.

So why is it important to follow your doctor’s instructions? It is because years of living with high blood sugar can lead to long term problems. It can affect your vision and may even lead to blindness. It can increase your risk for heart disease and strokes. It can cause you to lose kidney function and eventually cause kidney failure. It can cause problems with your circulation and when that occurs, you can have decrease wound healing which can lead to amputations. Diabetics who are not concerned about their high blood sugar readings often say that they feel fine and they don’t have to lower their blood sugar.

The truth is they probably don’t remember what it feels like to feel good, because they are so used to feeling bad.

What they don’t realize is the long term damage that is taking place inside their body. So, if you are diagnosed with diabetes and don’t follow your doctor’s advice, you might want to ask yourself – “what’s wrong with me?”

For more information on diabetes contact the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (342-2383).

(Mae Hitt, RN, CDE, is the community outreach director for Ochsner St. Anne Hospital in Raceland.)

23

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Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist Bevi Olivier

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Protecting your heart in your 30s and beyond

As the leading cause of death in the United States, cardiovascular disease affects men and women of any age. It is a silent killer, often masking its signs and symptoms until a heart attack or stroke occurs. Do you know your risk?

Heart disease is increasingly prevalent in those under the age of 60, so now is the time to start thinking about prevention.

In each decade as you age, you can take steps to prevent heart disease before it strikes.

In your 30s In your 30s, your life may be stressful as you balance work, finances and raising a family.

Consider your risk factors. Do you have a family history of heart disease? If a close relative has a form of cardiovascular disease, especially a male age 55 or younger or a female age 65 or younger, this puts you more at risk. Also, now is the time to make lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking, eating a balanced diet and incorporating exercise into your busy schedule.

The American Heart Association recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity at least five days per week. Know your cholesterol and blood pressure numbers, and visit a doctor to learn your risk.

In your 40s In your 40s, your fast-paced life may revolve around taking care of everyone else, but what about yourself? Take the time to slow down and consider your personal risk factors, such as family history. Monitor your cholesterol and blood pressure, and make

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2014

healthy lifestyles choices regarding diet and exercise.

Remember that regular visits with a cardiologist are important to determine your risk and manage disease, if needed. Your cardiologist may recommend a test such as a coronary artery calcium score, or a scan of the heart, to evaluate the presence of plaque in the arteries. This test is currently available at Cardiovascular Institute of the South for a flat fee of $49, and it is recommended for patients over the age of 40. Certain criteria do apply.

If you are interested in receiving this test, please call CIS at 1(866) 759-0137 to see if you qualify.

In your 50s and beyond In your 50s, 60s and beyond, making healthy lifestyle choices is essential to fighting heart disease.

Visit a cardiologist regularly and take all prescribed medications.

Eat a nutritious diet and stay active. Also make sure to know the signs of heart attack and stroke.

Common signs of heart attack include chest pain or shortness of breath. But other symptoms may be present, particularly in women, such as tightness or squeezing of the chest, pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck or jaw, nausea, lightheadedness or cold sweats. Also, keep watch for signs of stroke which include numbness on one side of the body/face, sudden

nausea/ vomiting, confusion, problems with vision/ speech, dizziness or severe headaches.

Call 911 immediately if any of these symptoms are present.

Regardless of your age, smoking greatly increases your chance of developing heart disease or experiencing a heart attack or stroke. But it is never too late to quit.

Within just five years of quitting, the chances of having a heart attack drop 50 to 70 percent. To help those interested in quitting, CIS has partnered with the Louisiana Smoking Cessation Trust to offer free smoking cessation medications and counseling appointments to residents of Louisiana who started smoking prior to Sept. 1, 1988.

Visit www.smokingcessationtrust. org/CIS or call 1(800) 425-2565 to enroll in the program.

Make the choice now to protect your heart for a lifetime!

With a team of nearly 500 dedicated members at 14 clinics throughout South Louisiana, CIS has provided cardiovascular care to our community for more than 30 years. For more information about CIS, call 1(800) 425-2565 or visit www.cardio.com.

(Bevi Olivier is the public relations and events coordinator for the Cardiovascular Institute of the South.)

Guest Columnist

T

Dr. James Soignet

The link between nutrition and health has never been better understood than today. Over the past several decades, numerous studies have established the relationship between unhealthy dietary choices and disorders such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even cancer. There is no doubt that eating the right kinds of food, in conjunction with healthy lifestyle choices including exercise and smoking cessation, can result in improved health and longevity for many. Ironically, the wealth of information accumulated about nutrition has led to a great deal of confusion; there seems to be too much out there for a lay person to completely comprehend. This is especially true regarding all the dietary fads on the market today.

To be honest, at times I have been just as confused as many of you. What I’ve learned to do is gloss over the differences many of these diets have, and focus on what all the good ones have in common – controlling total caloric intake, eating the right kinds of fats, carbs and proteins, and balancing diet with proper exercise.

Start with calories. While there is no single limit on caloric intake, a good rule of thumb is that healthy, active men should take in no more than 2,600 to 3,200 calories per day; and healthy, active women no more than 2,000 to 2,400, with reductions for sedentary lifestyles or diabetes (the exact recommendations can be obtained at www.usda.gov).

If you find counting calories cumbersome, don’t sweat it; simply reducing serving sizes, and eliminating between-meal snacks, has been shown to be beneficial.

Just as important as controlling total calories is eating the right kinds of fats, carbohydrates and proteins, and avoiding the bad ones. With regards to fats, monounsaturated fats (as found in olive and canola oils, avocados and certain nuts) and polyunsaturated fats (like those in soybean oil and corn oil) have been shown to be beneficial to cardiovascular health. Omega fatty acids, most

Making exercise recommendations is a bit tricky in a medium such as this, as many people who would stand to benefit the most from exercise frequently have cardiac or orthopedic conditions that might cause problems. If in doubt, seek medical attention before starting any exercise program, but as a general principle an exercise program that includes both cardiovascular training as

Understanding the link

25

between nutrition and health commonly found in cold-water fish like salmon, are included with the good fats (although fatty acids are technically not fats). Saturated fats, on the other hand, have been shown to increase cardiovascular events. By and large, these fats are usually found in animal byproducts like butter, whole milk and darker meats such as beef, pork and lamb. As for carbohydrates, the less refined carbs (essentially any ‘white’ starch), the better.

Healthier diets substitute wholegrain products (multi-grain bread, brown rice, etc.) for more traditional starches. (It is important, however, to not completely eliminate carbs from one’s diet, as these serve as an immediate source of energy for metabolism.) Regarding proteins, healthier diets stress leaner meats such as chicken, turkey and fish, and limiting red meats.

well as weight training tends to bring the best results.

Of course, it’s often much easier to describe a healthy lifestyle than to live it. In all my years of practice, I’ve seen more patients fail than succeed with nutrition and exercise programs. Even most of those who did find success had failed at some point in their past.

If you have found yourself similarly challenged, you’re not alone. Don’t be reluctant to try again. And don’t be afraid to ask for guidance from your health care provider – there are plenty of resources to start you on the right track.

(Dr. James Soignet received his degree from LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He currently practices at Regional Internal Medicine Associates in Thibodaux.) www.bayoucatholic.com

Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist

T 26

J. Michael Flynn, DC

There are lessons to be learned everywhere. Parables are a good place to look. A parable is defined as a short story that teaches a simple truth providing a moral or spiritual lesson. The Parable of the Good Samaritan is an excellent one. Another favorite goes like this: God said, “Your task is to build a better world.” And I asked, “How? This world is such a vast place and so complicated now. And I am so small and useless; there is nothing I can do.” Then God with great wisdom said, “Just build a better you.”

In a complicated world there are always challenges. You have to appreciate those who accept the challenge to build a better world. They are devoted to their families, neighbors, communities - all that make up their world.

With responsibility, respect, gratitude and love they seek not to just make it through another day, or give thanks to God it is Friday, but instead desire for a better world and their place in it.

They understand the importance of building a better “you.”

There is a lesson to be learned from an inner-city P-12 school in Chicago: Providence St. Mel, which prides itself in academic achievement and since 1978 sends all its graduates to college. The mission statement of the school, which they recite each morning after the Pledge of Allegiance, is remarkable.

At Providence St. Mel, we believe. We believe in the creation of inspired lives produced by the miracle of hard work. We are not frightened by the challenges of reality, but believe that we can change our conception of this

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2014

world and our place within it. So we work, plan, build, and dream in that order. We believe that one must earn the right to dream. Our talents, discipline, and integrity will be our contribution to a new world. Because we believe that we can take this place, this time, and this people, and make a better place, a better time, and a better people.

With God’s help, we will either find a way or make one.

In any mission of building a better you there are several things you should keep in mind. Just like the students of Providence St. Mel, you have to believe in something.

The old saying “if you don’t stand (believe) in something you will fall

for anything” applies.

You have to believe you can make changes in your life for the better; believe you can break bad habits; believe that you can take the steps to get healthier and happier; believe that you can cope with the stress in your life – appreciating that stress, just like gravity, is always with us. Stress is a normal part of life. When stress is not managed it becomes distress - a negative stress reaction.

Among the many positive ways to balance your life and avoid distress is to first and foremost have a personal mission to build a better you and contribute to a better world – your world.

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Your mission: ‘Just build a better you’ 27

We live in an unhealthy, overweight, undernourished and dehydrated society. By any measure it is overmedicated, out of shape and highly stressed. Many are having their faith tested.

We can all believe that we can do better – be better.

Believe that we will learn more, eat healthier, exercise regularly and share more. Believe that we can be better givers – supporting charities and offering a hand-up to those in need of encouragement. As it is written in the scriptures, “Give, and it will be given to you … for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.”

“We are born believing. A man bears beliefs as a tree bears apples” (Ralph Waldo Emerson).

(Dr. Mike Flynn provides chiropractic health care for patients of all ages at The Flynn Clinic of Chiropractic, 567 Corporate Drive, Houma – (985) 223-3811 – www. drmikeflynn.com.) www.bayoucatholic.com

Bayou Wellness

CIS saves a heart of gold Dr. Peter Fail chats with Msgr. Francis Amedee during an office visit recently.

By BEVI OLIVIER Msgr. Francis Amedee, age 89, was recently diagnosed with a heart condition called aortic stenosis.

This condition occurs when the valves of the aorta, the largest 28 vessel in the body, are narrowed.

When the aortic valves do not open properly, the heart is hindered from pumping blood to the rest of the body. Aortic stenosis weakens the heart and may eventually lead to heart failure if not treated.

Though Msgr. Amedee did not feel many effects of his diseased valve, aortic stenosis can cause symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue, feeling faint, shortness of breath, heart palpitations or heart murmur.

On Feb. 20, Dr. Peter Fail, interventional cardiologist at Cardiovascular Institute of the

South (CIS), along with Dr. Edgar Feinberg II, cardiac surgeon with Cardiovascular Clinic of Houma, performed a procedure on Msgr.

Amedee to replace his diseased aortic heart valve. In this advanced procedure, a replacement valve was inserted through a catheter in the leg rather than through openheart surgery.

“This procedure was a tremendous opportunity for Msgr. Amedee,” said Dr. Fail. “At Terrebonne General Medical Center (TGMC), not only do we offer alternative options through clinical trials, but our surgical procedures also utilize the most advanced and cuttingedge technology.”

Msgr. Amedee’s procedure was a success. He can now rest at ease that his heart valve is healthy and functioning properly, allowing him

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to continue driving and celebrating Mass.

“I’m thankful to the doctors and staff at CIS and TGMC for the great care I received. I also send my thanks to Dr. Fail, Dr. Edgar Feinberg II, and Dr. Bart Denys for being so considerate.”

Ann Thibodaux, administrator at St. Joseph Manor, said that Msgr. Amedee is doing extremely well following his procedure. “He was discharged one day sooner than planned, and one week later, he was back celebrating Saturday vigil Mass at the Manor. It is truly a blessing!”

“I’m ready to go 10 more years,” Msgr. Amedee laughed.

(Bevi Olivier is the public relations and events coordinator for the Cardiovascular Institute of the South.)

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Guest Columnist

V

Dr. Waybrun J. Hebert III

Various conditions such as Haglund’s deformity, Achilles tendonitis, and Achilles tendonosis cause pain and damage to the Achilles tendon.

When non-surgical approaches fail to provide adequate pain relief, surgery is an appropriate option for many patients.

A number of different surgical procedures are available to treat disorders involving the Achilles tendon. In selecting the procedure, your surgeon has taken into consideration the extent of your disorder, your age, your activity level and other factors. Three types of procedures, which may be modified somewhat by your surgeon to address your needs, are described below.

Exostectomy The Exostectomy, also called a resection (cutting) of bone, is commonly performed to remove the bony prominence (“pump bump”) on the back of the heel.

The goal of this procedure is to reduce the pain associated with this condition.

After making an incision on the back of the heel to gain access to the bone and tendon, the surgeon: n Inspects the bone and surrounding soft issue n Removes the bony prominence n Removes any bone spurs that may be present n Cleans out any damaged tissue that may be present around the Achilles tendon n Closes the incision with stitches and applies a sterile dressing n Possible immobilization of the foot and ankle with a cast or splint Achilles tendon repair This type of surgery is used to treat such conditions as chronic

Surgery for chronic Achilles tendon disorders Achilles tendonitis or tendonosis, in which inflammation has caused deterioration of the tendon. The goal of this surgery is to reduce the pain associated with a damaged Achilles tendon.

After making an incision at the back of the heel to gain access to the bone and tendon, the surgeon: n Detaches the Achilles tendon from the bone at the back of the heel

n Removes any bone spurs that may be present n Cleans out the unhealthy, degenerative tissue of the tendon caused by inflammation n Repairs the remaining, healthy tendon with stitches n Reattaches the tendon to the bone using some type of fixation hardware n Closes the incision with stitches and applies a sterile bandage n Immobilizes the foot and ankle with a splint, cast or boot Tendon Transfer A tendon transfer is suitable for patients whose Achilles tendon

has been substantially weakened and cannot function properly on its own. The goals of this procedure are to reduce pain and improve function.

After making an incision over the Achilles tendon, the surgeon: n Identifies and cuts out the portion of the Achilles tendon that is damaged n Takes a healthy tendon from the area and moves it into a new position to assist the weakened Achilles tendon n Reattaches this transferred tendon to the bone using some type of fixation hardware and repairs the Achilles tendon and reattaches 29 it to the heel bone (calcaneus) n Closes the incision with stitches and applies a sterile bandage n Immobilizes the foot and ankle with a cast, splint or boot Recovery Recovery from Achilles tendon repair surgery generally takes about 10 to 12 weeks. During a portion of that period, weight bearing may not be permitted.

(Dr. Waybrun J. Hebert III is a native and resident of Houma.

He has practiced podiatry in the Houma area since 1997. He has a bachelor of science degree from the University of Texas. He went on to attend the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery and obtained his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree in 1995. He did his reconstructive surgery residence at Doctor’s Hospital in New Boston, TX. He is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgery and specializes in surgical correction of foot deformities and diabetic wound care.) www.bayoucatholic.com

Bayou Wellness

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A Life Wellness Plan:

Healthy living at all ages Guest Columnist

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Dr. Catherine Diebold

As winter fades, we often begin to shake off the old dry self and look forward to a brighter new self for the springtime. As the

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2014

mighty oaks shed their old dried up leaves, so should we shed any unhealthy habits we have picked up during this very wet and cold winter! We should ask ourselves, “What’s my plan?”, not just for the moment, but hopefully for my year/ decade/life. This is called a Life Wellness Plan. If point A is today and point B is when you die, how will you live the days in between?

Are you making small choices daily to extend your life/happiness/ spirituality? Or, are you taking a short cut and thus shortening the overall health, happiness and spiritual goals you otherwise had

in mind? Have you had a recent wellness exam, with blood work and health recommendations?

Ask yourself where you want to be in 10 years. Do you want to be in the same or even better state of health than you are now? If so, your Life Wellness Plan will allow you to assess your baseline and take an unbiased look at how to improve your health going forward.

A Life Wellness Plan: n plans ahead n has health goals n uses small steps to achieve them To be well, one must have

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good physical health, a healthy lifestyle that supports it, and emotional and spiritual balance. If any of these are out of place, then overall health will suffer. Physical health parameters include height to weight ratio (often expressed as Body Mass Index or BMI), blood pressure, hormonal status, blood work, and other studies like mammograms/EKG, etc.

Heart attacks are the number one killer of people over age 50. High blood pressure and an unhealthy weight increases ones risk for this deadly disease. Managing these factors are very important for maintaining good health.

How does one know their hormonal status? If you are under 30 years of age and feeling great, you can generally assume all is good! If you are in your forties or older and feeling less energetic, moody, decreased sense of self, weight gain, less able to do things like when you were 20– your hormone status may be out of balance. Blood work by your doctor can sort things out and help you get back on track. Areas of concern are your thyroid, adrenal, male and/or female hormones. If any of these are out of balance, you may feel sluggish, stressed, moody, and experience a slowed metabolism, weight gain, loss of bone strength and muscle mass. Blood work can also reveal if you are at risk for diabetes, heart/liver/kidney disease, inflammation, and stress status. You should get your vitamin D level tested (important for brain, bone, heart and metabolism).

SINCE FAST

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It should come as no surprise that metabolism does slow with age.

Classically, our activity level tends to decrease as we age (remember staying out until dark when a child running/playing?).

Decreasing activity leads to withering muscle mass, decreasing metabolism, and so forth. How do we fight the decline? Two important steps are to eat right (e.g., a low glycemic/ high fiber diet– like South Beach or Mediterranean Diet) and, of course, exercise regularly.

Exercise increases muscle mass, increases metabolism, helps ward off unwanted weight gain and generally keeps you stronger and healthier. Exercise daily and make it fun! Strive for 10,000 steps a day!!! Do strength training three times/week; also do yoga or other flexibility exercises weekly.

To maintain a healthy weight, you need to match how much you eat with your metabolism. To aid in this, a metabolic test can be performed to assess you specific metabolism. The test is called ReeVue and directly measures your metabolic rate. Based on this, a diet plan can be designed to fit one’s health goals. If one eats too few calories, metabolism slows and weight increases. Too many calories, obviously weight is gained. Eat just right for weight loss or stabilization!!!

Other important considerations are to drink eight glasses of liquid, eat three meals and two snacks, and make sure your diet includes nine fresh fruits and vegetables each day. (Bright is right). You

RE BATH

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st Call 1-800-BATHTUB (228-4882) Intere or 225-753-6810 for Free g a free in-home consultation. n ci Finan

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may also derive benefit from some nutritional supplements or using an online weight /food diary app for support (e.g., check out myfitnesspal, myfooddiary and weightwatchers). Diet-wise, keep in mind that not all calories are equal. Low glycemic foods don’t lead to excessive blood sugar swings which is much healthier for our body! High blood sugar levels raise insulin which quickly stores excess calories as fat and keeps your body from burning fat as an energy source. When your blood sugars drop back down, your body craves more sugar – a vicious cycle!

Aside from physical appearances, excess fat causes inflammation and disease; triglyceride levels increase, heart disease increases, etc.

Finally, sleep is good! Get at least eight hours to control stress, and maintain metabolism and energy levels. Find your emotional and spiritual balance to help 31 control stress. This may include yoga, prayer, journal writing and meditation. Good balance supports good health!

Consider where you are, where you want to be, then live long and be happy!!!

(Dr. Catherine Diebold is board certified as an OB/GYN and Age Management Specialist.

She offers metabolic testing in her office at 506 N. Acadia Road, in Thibodaux, LA. For questions or appointments call (985)448-1216.)

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One Instal day lation

Ask about our $1000 discount.

Mention code: “Bayou Catholic” and receive an additional $100 discount.

STEVE DECELL

Aging-In-Place Consultant

Walk-in Tubs www.bayoucatholic.com

Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist

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Shea Austin

Guidelines on nutrition and physical activity for cancer prevention from the American Cancer Society stress the importance of creating social and physical environments that support healthy behaviors.

The report includes updated recommendations for individual choices regarding diet and physical activity patterns, but emphasizes that those choices occur within a community context that can either help or hinder healthy behaviors.

The updated guidelines include recommendations for community action to accompany the four major recommendations for individual choices to reduce cancer risk, saying a supportive social and physical environment is indispensable if all Americans are to have genuine opportunities to choose and maintain healthy behaviors.

The American Cancer Society publishes its Guidelines on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention to serve as a foundation for its communication, policy and community strategies, and ultimately, to affect dietary and physical activity patterns among Americans.

The guidelines, published about every five years, are developed by a national panel of experts in cancer research, prevention, epidemiology, public health and policy, and reflect the most current scientific evidence related to dietary and activity patterns and cancer risk. They were last updated in 2006.

The guidelines include four major recommendations, each of which includes several supporting recommendations.

Achieve and maintain a healthy weight throughout life.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2014

American Cancer Nutrition guidelines stress need for

n Be as lean as possible throughout life without being underweight. n Avoid excess weight gain at all ages. For those who are currently overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight has health benefits and is a good place to start. n Engage in regular physical activity and limit consumption of high-calorie foods and beverages as key strategies for maintaining a healthy weight.

Adopt a physically active lifestyle. n Adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity each week, or an equivalent combination, preferably spread throughout the week. n Children and adolescents should engage in at least one hour of moderate or vigorous intensity activity each day, with vigorous intensity activity occurring at least three days each week. n Limit sedentary behavior such as sitting, lying down and watching television, and other forms of screen-based entertainment. n Doing some physical activity above usual activities, no matter

what one’s level of activity, can have many health benefits.

Consume a healthy diet, with an emphasis on plant foods. n Choose foods and beverages in amounts that help achieve and maintain a healthy weight. n Limit consumption of processed meat and red meat. n Eat at least 2.5 cups of vegetables and fruits each day. n Choose whole grains instead of refined grain products.

If you drink alcoholic beverages, limit consumption. n Drink no more than one drink per day for women or two per day for men.

Public, private, and community organizations should work collaboratively at national, state and local levels to implement policy and environmental changes that: n Increase access to affordable, healthy foods in communities, worksites and schools, and decrease access to and marketing of foods and beverages of low nutritional value, particularly to youth. n Provide safe, enjoyable and accessible environments for physical activity in schools

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Society supportive environment

and worksites, and for transportation and recreation in communities.

“Our guidelines have always stressed what people can do themselves to lower their risk of cancer, and that’s important,” said Colleen Doyle, MS, RD, director of nutrition and physical activity, and co-author of the report. “But we must also take public action to make those behaviors easier for all Americans. We can’t just tell people to eat more fruits and vegetables and get more exercise when there are so many forces working against them being able to do that easily, and on a regular basis.

“We’ve got to work together to ensure that worksites and schools have healthy food options; that our neighborhoods are designed so that our children can safely ride their bikes or walk to school. The environments in which we live, work, learn and play have a tremendous impact on our ability to make and sustain healthy lifestyle choices. So if we’re not working to change those environments so that the healthier choice is the easier choice, we’re missing the boat.”

The report also reviews the evidence on diet and physical activity factors that affect risks for select cancers, as well as a section on common questions about diet, physical activity and cancer; from coffee and dietary supplements to garlic, fiber and irradiated foods. The guidelines can be found on cancer.org.

(Shea Austin is an account representative-hospital systems with American Cancer Society, Inc. She has a bachelor’s of science degree in kinesiology with a concentration in health promotion and wellness.)

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Journey

Why Journey Hospice?

• Located in Houma, we proudly serve South Louisiana.

• We admit patients within two hours of the doctor’s order with patient and family consents.

• Patients on service with Journey Hospice receive contact from our staff 7 days a week.

• Our nurses are on call and available 24 hours, 7 days a week.

• We communicate with the patient’s physician and family regarding the process of care provided in the manner they choose.

• We encourage our patients to continue seeing their physicians.

Hospice

• We continue to provide care for our patient’s families through our Bereavement Program for no less than 13 months following the patient’s passing.

Specialized Care For The Entire Family.

Hospice benefits everyone, and is merely a shift in medical priorities, not abandonment. Our number one goal is always patient comfort and pain management delivered at home by professionals. This process eases the financial and emotional burdens on the family, while ensuring the patient’s dignity and wishes are respected.

Journey Hospice Pays For:

• On call Professional Nursing 24/7 • Certified Nursing Assistants • Psychosocial and Spiritual Care • Bereavement • Trained Volunteers • Medicines Related To The Terminal Diagnosis • Medical Supplies (gloves, bandages, diapers, etc.)

• Medical Equipment (O2, wheelchair, hospital bed, etc.)

Who Pays For Hospice?

Hospice is paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, Private Insurance or Private Pay. We also provide care to the uninsured through our indigent program.

For a personal consultation to see if hospice is right for you or a loved one, please call Journey Hospice • 985-223-1865 • 598 Corporate Drive • Houma, La 70360 • 24 Hours 7 Days A Week www.bayoucatholic.com

Bayou Wellness

Guest Columnist

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Dr. Quentin D. Falgoust

Are you tired of wearing your glasses or contacts? Have you thought about having surgery to correct your vision but aren’t sure if it’s for you? It’s not unusual to have questions or concerns when thinking about eye surgery, especially if it’s an elective procedure. It is one thing to know that surgery is necessary to prevent disease or save your eyesight; it’s quite another to think about undergoing surgery on eyes that are perfectly healthy (other than their need for glasses or contacts).

Despite the reservations or concerns many people have about refractive surgery, it is generally a very satisfying and life changing experience for those who choose to live without having to look for their glasses or insert their contact lenses every day. Let’s look at the common refractive procedures available.

What is refractive eye surgery and what are the different procedures?

Refractive eye surgery is a procedure to change the shape of the eye, causing light to bend and focus images in the correct place on the retina. This eliminates or reduces the dependence on glasses or contacts in most cases. Currently, there are two procedures being performed: LASIK (laser assisted in situ keratomileusis) or PRK (photorefractive keratectomy).

PRK is also referred to as ASA, or advanced surface ablation. Both procedures use a laser to reshape the cornea, or the front layer of the eye.

The main difference

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Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • April 2014

How safe is refractive eye surgery?

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

between the two procedures is how the surgeon gains access to the area of the cornea that can be reshaped by the laser. In LASIK, an instrument is used to create a flap, allowing access to the deeper layers of the cornea. Once the laser is used, the flap is laid back down and allowed to heal. In PRK (or ASA), the front surface is mechanically removed before the laser is used. The front surface then has to heal back over, which takes a few days to weeks. The end result is no different between the two, but the healing time is different.

So which procedure is better?

One procedure is not superior to the other, although LASIK is the more commonly performed procedure due to a faster recovery.

So why is PRK/ASA performed at all?

In some cases, the amount of tissue that can be safely removed for the eye to remain healthy requires that PRK be performed.

In other cases, the slightly reduced risk of complications that ASA has over LASIK is what causes the

doctor and/or patient to choose this as the preferred procedure.

So does that mean that LASIK isn’t safe?

While LASIK does have a slightly higher risk of complication than PRK/ASA, when performed by an experienced surgeon these risks are minimal.

So are you saying there isn’t a risk with either procedure?

No. With any procedure on any part of the body there is always a risk of complication. In refractive surgery, we can compare this with the risk of driving or riding in a car. No one can predict every possible scenario that may occur.

However, an experienced driver knows the types of situations to watch for, and can avoid or minimize these occurrences. An experienced refractive surgeon knows which candidates are best for which procedure, and the risks for complications are extremely low in these circumstances.

Is everyone a candidate for LASIK or PRK/ASA? No. Some patients are perfect

candidates, while some are not eligible at all. Then, there are some people who are marginal candidates for one or the other, and after considering all the factors the best recommendation is made for these patients by the surgeon.

Regardless of candidacy, all the risks and benefits of any procedure should be thoroughly explained and all questions answered by the surgeon.

Overall, refractive surgery is a wonderful and safe alternative for patients who are tired of their glasses or contacts. In some cases, it can be a healthier alternative to contact lens wear. To find out if you are a candidate, contact Dr. Falgoust and his staff to discuss your refractive options at (985) 879-2393, or visit their website at www.friendlyeyecare.com.

(Quentin D. Falgoust, MD, is a LASIK and cataract specialist with over 30 years of experience in south Louisiana. He was the first LASIK surgeon in the Houma-Thibodaux area and has performed over 35,000 surgical procedures.)

Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Specialists

DAVID L. HAGEN, M.D. ~ MATTHEW G. BEYER, M.D. ~ CHAD M. SIMON, M.D. Ear • Nose • Throat & Sinus Surgery Endoscopic & Balloon Sinus Surgery • Sleep Apnea/Snoring Hearing & Balance Disorders • Hearing Aids • Thyroid Surgery

Adult and Pediatric 505 Dunn Street • Houma, LA 70360

(985) 872-0423

1125 Audubon Avenue • Thibodaux, LA 70301

(985) 448-1030

www.bayoucatholic.com

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