2021
MEDICAL GUIDE HELP WITH MANAGING OBESITY SCREENINGS RECOMMENDED FOR MEN
*LOCAL MEDICAL DIRECTORY INSIDE
THE TIMES Wednesday, June 23, 2021
“Anyone who suffers a blow to the head should need just a couple of seconds to a couple of minutes for symptoms to go away. If any symptoms last more than an hour after a head injury, it’s critical to get checked out.” – Dr. Isaac Mezo
CONCUSSION KNOW WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF
T
here’s a reason high school and college athletic departments and professional sports organizations are paying close attention to concussions. A type of traumatic brain injury, concussions are potentially serious. And whether a concussion results from a contact sport, a fall, or an accident, anyone, at any age, can get a concussion. “A concussion is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head that causes movement in the brain,” says Isaac Mezo, M.D., a neurologist with Morris Hospital Neurology Specialists. “This sudden movement in the head can cause chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretches or damages brain cells, causing neurological symptoms.” Concussions can range in severity from a minor injury that heals with rest to a serious condition that can have long-term effects on daily life. When a bump, blow, or jolt to the head occurs and symptoms continue to last for more than a few minutes, the first step is visiting an emergency department or immediate care center so a provider can rule out a serious injury. Symptoms that could indicate a concussion include headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to light, concentration or memory problems, confusion, vision problems, or feeling sluggish, hazy or groggy.
2 Medical Guide 2021 | The Times | Wednesday, June 23, 2021
“If anyone has any kind of head injury, it’s better to be safe than sorry,” says Dr. Mezo. “Anyone who suffers a blow to the head should need just a couple of seconds to a couple of minutes for symptoms to go away. If any symptoms last more than an hour after a head injury, it’s critical to get checked out.” Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers is striving to improve the outcomes for individuals diagnosed with concussions through a new Concussion Management Program. Called “Getting Your Brain Back On Track,” the comprehensive and evidencebased concussion management program utilizes emergency or immediate care, neurology, and rehabilitation services to enhance concussion diagnosis, evaluation and treatment. “There’s an urgent need to be seen by a certified provider within a few days of experiencing a concussion,” says Dr. Mezo. “Yet, we’ve found that it’s often weeks or months after a concussion occurs that patients are receiving post-concussion treatment. These numbers are very troubling. Through our new Concussion Management Program, we are streamlining the process for concussion diagnosis and treatment so that people can get back to work, school or play as fast as possible without any long-lasting injury.” For more information, go to morrishospital.org/concussion or call the Morris Hospital Neurology Specialists’ office at 815-467-0555 (Channahon) or 815-942-4506 (Morris).
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SIGNS YOUR YOUNG CHILD IS HAVING VISION PROBLEMS
A
s many a parent can attest, decoding a youngster’s needs can be challenging when that child is not yet able to fully communicate. Diagnosing health issues may require a little trial and error. So it’s no wonder many parents are not aware if their children are having issues with vision. Routine wellness exams by your child’s physician can help to determine if a child is having problems with his or her vision. Doctors may detect subtleties that parents may not see, including signs that suggest kids are having trouble with their vision.
Both physicians are board certified in general surgery and Dr. Kokoszka is also board certified in colon and rectal surgery. We cover Morris Hospital, St. Elizabeth Medical Center, St Margaret’s HealthPeru (formerly IVCH), and St. Margaret’s Hospital. Procedures include: gallbladder surgery, hernia repair, colon and rectal surgery, breast surgery, EGD and colonoscopy, hemorrhoid.
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The American Optometric Association recommends vision exams at age six months, three years and before entering first grade, as well as every two years thereafter until age 18. Initial vision assessments typically take place in a pediatrician’s office. Parents can ask their family pediatrician to look for signs of vision trouble in their children. Some pediatricians may recommend children visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
8 9
As an extra precaution, parents can watch for nine warning signs children may exhibit when they experience vision disorders.
ILLINOIS VALLEY SURGICAL ASSOCIATES
Dr. Joseph Kokoszka
1 2 3 4 5 6
Squinting, which can be a sign of compensating for poor vision.
Sitting too close to the television or holding a tablet screen close to the face. Covering or shutting one eye.
Rubbing eyes due to visual fatigue and not general fatigue.
Pulling toys or other objects closer. Head tilting, which could be a signal that vision may be better in one eye than the other.
Inability to make steady eye contact or track an object in an infant older than three months of age. Crossed or misaligned eyes after age four months.
Children who are easily distracted in learning situations or have difficulty paying attention may be losing interest due to trouble with their vision.
Health News The value of patient education: Open and clear communication between patients and their health care providers, patient education, and lower drug costs can help patients more confidently manage and take their medications. When pharmacists explain to patients how to take their medications - it can increase adherence to therapy and improve safety in their patients. Our professional staff is happy to answer your questions about your medications.
Dr. Robert Wojcik
800 W. Bluff St. Marseilles, IL 61341
(815) 795-2700
Office hours: Ottawa and Peru offices are open Monday-Thursday 8:30-4:30 Friday 8:30-12:30 We also have clinic hours in Morris and Spring Valley.
www.schottspharmacy.com
Joseph Kokoszka, M.D.
Robert Wojcik, M.D.
Compounding Specialists:
1050 E. Norris Drive Suite 2B Ottawa, IL 61350 (815) 433-3745
920 West Street Suite 118 Peru, IL 61354 (815) 223-6041
G. A. Carlson, R.Ph. K.E. Anderson, R.Ph.
1600 W. US Rt. 6 Morris, IL 60450 (815) 941-9846
St. Margaret’s Hospital Clinic 600 E. First St. Spring Valley, IL 61362
SM-CL1887392
Wednesday, June 23, 2021 | The Times | Medical Guide 2021 3
Help with MANAGING OBESITY
F
amily medicine physician Paulo Aranas, M.D., with the Morris Hospital Ottawa Campus, has seen a reoccurring problem with obesity over the years that he feels hasn’t been appropriately addressed. Officially recognized as a disease by the American Medical Association in 2013, more than 42 percent of U.S. adults cope with obesity, which is associated with a higher risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke and other musculoskeletal and vascular problems. Patients are considered clinically obese if their Body Mass Index (BMI) is over 30, while being “overweight” is defined as having a BMI between 25-29.
Dr. Aranas practices at the Morris Hospital Ottawa Campus, 1306 Gemini Circle, Suite 1, Ottawa. To schedule an appointment, call 815-433-9200.
“Obesity continues to be underdiagnosed and not put in the spotlight to the same degree as other chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia or sleep apnea,” says Dr. Aranas, who recently received certification in obesity medicine, designating his specialized expertise in helping people with weight loss, as well as those needing support before and after bariatric surgery. “As obesity gets addressed, these chronic medical conditions also get addressed.” Dr. Aranas received his certification through the American Board of Obesity Medicine following two years of rigorous training and an extensive examination process. As part of the certification process, he received extensive education in the four pillars of treating obesity – nutrition, exercise,
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4 Medical Guide 2021 | The Times | Wednesday, June 23, 2021
behavior and pharmacology. He says obesity medicine specialists treat the whole body, meaning they identify and address all aspects of a patient’s diet, exercise habits, metabolic concerns, genetic issues and other contributing factors, and develop a plan for weight management. In his role as a board-certified family medicine physician, Dr. Aranas counsels and treats patients at any point of their weight-loss efforts, but his obesity medicine expertise particularly comes into play when a patient’s initial attempts with a primary care doctor have been unsuccessful. Obesity medicine specialists also work closely with bariatric surgeons before and after weight-loss surgery to provide guidance and address any issues that may arise. “When you go to an obesity medicine specialist, it means you have been to another doctor without success,” says Dr. Aranas. “This certification gives me more knowledge and expertise to address the problem of obesity and weight. I will be helping patients throughout the whole process of their weight-loss journey and hopefully treat diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea and all the other comorbidities that accompany obesity. It’s a very important field that I am very passionate about and is gaining a lot more following in the medical community.” “If someone needs help and is ready to tackle their weight problem, they can always reach out and we can start the discussion about our options and what we need to do,” Dr. Aranas says.
Pediatric Center of Ottawa Schedule Your
school/sports physicals with
Dr. Dave
Pahroul Dave, APRN 40 Years of Care • Direct access 24 hours • Always accepting new infants & patients • Same day sick visit • Behavioral • ADHD • Asthma • Allergy • Telehealth
1209 Starfire Dr., Ottawa • 815-434-2115
Eat W TO HO
TO IMPROVE ENERGY LEVELS little extra energy during the day could benefit just about anyone. Late morning mental fatigue and the post-lunch yawns may seem unavoidable, but there are plenty of ways to improve energy levels throughout the day.
The health care experts at Kaiser Permanente note that every part of the body, including the brain and heart, require energy to work. The body gets that energy from food. The American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says eating better is an effective way to improve energy levels. The AAND recommends the following strategies.
EAT EVERY THREE TO FOUR HOURS
Eating every three to four hours helps to fuel a healthy metabolism. This approach also can prevent the betweenmeal hunger pangs that compel many people to reach for whatever food is readily available. When eating every three to four hours, remember to prepare smaller portions than you would if you were eating three meals per day. The AAND points out that feeling comfortably full but not stuffed is a good indicator that you’ve eaten enough.
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AIM FOR BALANCE
A balanced plate should include foods from multiple food groups. The AAND says a small amount of fat can find its way onto your plate, which should include a combination of whole grains, lean protein, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, and fat-free or low-fat dairy. If that’s too much for a single sitting, ensure these food groups are on your plate at some point during the day.
AVOID ADDED SUGARS
Added sugars can adversely affect energy levels. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that consuming too many added sugars, which are found in sugar-sweetened beverages like soda and iced tea and snacks like candy, increase a person’s risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The AAND reports that the energy provided by foods with added sugars is typically misleading, as it wears off quickly and ultimately leads to an energy crash. If you’re looking for energy, then choose water or low-fat milk instead of coffee and soda and replace sweet snacks with fruit.
Dr. Tushar Shah Both are board-certified orthodontists with the American Board of Orthodontics
Schedule an appointment at our
OTTAWA OR PERU OFFICE
and see why Dr. Shah & Dr. Imel are the orthodontists everyone is smiling about!
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SNACKS
The AAND recommends snacks have lean protein and fiberrich carbohydrates. Low-fat Greek yogurt, apples, a handful of unsalted nuts, and carrots are some examples of healthy snacks that will provide an energy boost between meals.
Dr. Curtis Imel
OTTAWA
1704 Polaris Circle SM-CL1886983
815.433.4222
PERU
2050 Marquette Rd. #200
815.224.2355
Wednesday, June 23, 2021 | The Times | Medical Guide 2021 5
MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE
CHIROPRACTIC
AUDIOLOGISTS
COMPOUNDING PHARMACY
Gretencord Acupuncture & Chiropractic 106 W. McKinley Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-1616 Audittori Associates North Ottawa Plaza 2741 N. Columbus St. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-4748 With Eye Care Professionals 1921 4th St. Peru, IL 61354 Streator Hearing Care Darcy Beals M.S., CCA 205 S. Park St. Streator, IL 61364 815-673-2869
AURICULAR THERAPY
Gretencord Acupuncture & Chiropractic 106 W. McKinley Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-1616
CANCER CARE
Radiation Therapy Center of Morris Hospital 1600 W. U.S. Rt. 6 Morris, IL 60450 815-364-8915 morrishospital.org/cancercare
CARDIOLOGY
Morris Hospital Cardiovascular Specialists 1300 Starfire Dr. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-705-1000 151 W. High St. (upper level) Morris, IL 60450 815-705-1000 morrishospital.org/ cvspecialists Syed Ahmed, M.D. Mary Gordon, D.O. Athar Saeed, M.D.
Gretencord Acupuncture & Chiropractic 106 W. McKinley Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-1616
Schotts Pharmacy 800 W. Bluff St. Marseilles, IL 61341 815-795-2700 www.schottspharmacy.com
DENTISTS
Affiliated Dentists Dr. Andrew Jordan, D.D.S. 214 N. Main Street Pontiac, IL 61764 815-842-3550
EYE CARE
Finkelstein Eye Associates Gary Finkelstein, MD Robert Pode, DO 102 W. Elm St. Streator, IL 61364 815-672-4600 1915 4th St. Peru, IL 61301 815-223-1112 www.finkelsteineye.com Wendy Sanders-Maubach, O.D., P.C. 107 E. McKinley Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-433-1426 drwendysanders.com
FAMILY MEDICINE
Morris Hospital Ottawa Campus 1306 Gemini Circle, Ste. 1 815-433-9200 morrishospital.org/ottawa Paulo Aranas, M.D. Hassnain Syed, M.D. Angela Todd, F.N.P.-B.C.
6 Medical Guide 2021 | The Times | Wednesday, June 23, 2021
Newark Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 5 N. Johnson St. Newark, IL 60541 815-695-5042 morrishospital.org/newark Jennifer Fry, F.N.P.-B.C. Seneca Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 271 N. Main St. Seneca, IL 61360 815-357-8511 morrishospital.org/Seneca Colin Kao, D.O. Nina Seplak, F.N.P.-B.C.
HEARING AIDS
Audittori Associates North Ottawa Plaza 2741 N. Columbus St. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-4748 With Eye Care Professionals 1921 4th St. Peru, IL 61354 Streator Hearing Care Darcy Beals M.S., CCA 205 S. Park St. Streator, IL 61364 815-673-2869
HOSPITALS
Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers 150 W. High St. Morris, IL 60450 815-942-2932 morrishospital.org
INFECTIOUS DISEASE
Morris Hospital Infectious Disease Specialists 425 E. Route 6, Ste. B Morris, IL 60450 815-513-3074 morrishospital.org/ infectiousdisease John Bolden, M.D.
NEUROLOGY
Morris Hospital Neurology Specialists 1802 N. Division St., Ste. 703 Morris, IL 60450 815-942-4506 morrishospital.org/neurology Isaac Mezo, M.D. Stefanie Henline, N.P.-C.
OBESITY MEDICINE
Morris Hospital Ottawa Campus 1306 Gemini Circle, Ste. 1 Ottawa, IL 61350 815-433-9200 morrishospital.org/ottawa Paulo Aranas, M.D.
OB/GYN
Morris Hospital Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists 1300 Starfire Dr. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-324-9700 Victoria Ochoa, D.O. Douglas Toussaint, D.O. Morris Hospital Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists 237 W. Waverley St. Morris, IL 60450 815-941-0441 morrishospital.org/obgyn Andrea Chen, M.D. Mary Fitzgibbon, M.D. Erik Muraskas, M.D. Victoria Ochoa, D.O. Leticia Setrini-Best, M.D. Douglas Toussaint, D.O.
OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE
Diagnostic & Rehabilitative Center of Morris Hospital 100 W. Gore Road Morris, IL 60450 815-364-8919 Morris Hospital Yorkville Campus 105 Saravanos Dr. Yorkville, IL 60560 630-553-8200 morrishospital.org/occmed
OPHTHALMOLOGY/ OPHTHALMOLOGISTS
Finkelstein Eye Associates Gary Finkelstein, MD Robert Pode, DO 102 W. Elm St. Streator, IL 61364 815-672-4600 1915 4th St. Peru, IL 61301 815-223-1112 www.finkelsteineye.com
OPTICAL RETAIL
Wendy Sanders-Maubach, O.D., P.C. 107 E. McKinley Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-433-1426 drwendysanders.com
ORTHODONTICS
Premier Orthodontics 1704 Polaris Circle Ottawa, IL 61350 815-433-4222 www.premierorthodontics.net Premier Orthodontics 2050 Marquette Rd. Peru, IL 61354 815-224-2355 www.premierorthodontics.net
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY
Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine 1306 Gemini Circle, Ste. 2, Ottawa – 815-433-0850 1051 W. U.S. Route 6, Ste. 100, Morris – 815-942-4875 morrishospital.org/ orthopedics Mir Ali, M.D., Ph.D. Raymond Meyer, M.D. Keith Rezin, M.D. Robert Williams, M.D.
ORTHOPEDIC SPINE SURGERY
Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine 1306 Gemini Circle, Ste. 2, Ottawa – 815-433-0850 1051 W. U.S. Route 6, Ste. 100, Morris – 815-942-4875 morrishospital.org/ orthopedics Mir Ali, M.D., Ph.D.
PEDIATRICS
Marseilles Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 580 Sycamore St. Marseilles, IL 61341 815-795-2122 morrishospital.org/ pediatricians Ian Best, M.D. Morris Hospital Ottawa Campus 1306 Gemini Circle, Ste. 1 Ottawa, IL 61350 815-433-9200 morrishospital.org/ottawa Melissa Hill, M.D. Pediatric Center of Ottawa Amar Dave, M.D. 1209 Starfire Dr. Ottawa, IL 61350 (815) 434-2115 The Streator Children’s Clinic 104 Sixth Street, Suite 303 Streator, IL 61364 815-673-2352 or 815-673-2354
PHARMACY
Schotts Pharmacy 800 W. Bluff St. Marseilles, IL 61341 815-795-2700 www.schottspharmacy.com
PODIATRY & FOOT & ANKLE SURGERY
Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine 1306 Gemini Circle, Ste. 2, Ottawa – 815-433-0850 1051 W. U.S. Route 6, Ste. 100 Morris – 815-942-4875 morrishospital.org/ orthopedics Kyle Pearson, D.P.M.
REHABILITATION SERVICES Diagnostic & Rehabilitative Center of Morris Hospital (Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapy and Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab) 100 W. Gore Road Morris, IL 60450 815-364-8919 Morris Hospital Rehabilitation Services (Physical & Occupational Therapy, Work Conditioning, Functional Capacity Evaluations) 1051 W. US Rt. 6, Ste. 400 Morris, IL 60450 815-942-8301 Morris Hospital Rehabilitation Services (Physical & Occupational Therapy) 1306 Gemini Circle, Ste. 3 Ottawa IL 61350 815-431-9980
RHEUMATOLOGY
Morris Hospital Rheumatology Specialists 1345 Edwards Street, Ste. 1 Morris, IL 60450 815-942-9299 www.morrishospital.org/ rheumatology Hadi Hedayati, M.D. Deena Raval, D.O. Belal Said, M.D.
SLEEP CENTER
Morris Hospital Sleep Center 1499 Lakewood Dr., Ste. I Morris, IL 60450 815-941-7533 morrishospital.org/sleep Peter Analytis, M.D.
SURGEONS
Illinois Valley Surgical Associates 1050 E. Norris Dr., Suite 2B Ottawa IL 61350 (815) 433-3745 1600 W. US Route 6 Morris, IL 60450 (815) 941-9846 Joseph Kokoszka, M.D. Illinois Valley Surgical Associates 920 W. St., Suite 118 Peru, IL 61354 (815) 223-6041 St. Margaret Hospital Clinic Spring Valley, IL 61362 (815) 223-6041 Robert Wojcik, M.D.
URGENT/WALK-IN CARE
Morris Hospital Immediate Care 100 W. Gore Road Morris, IL 60450 815-364-8919 morrishospital.org/walkincare Morris Hospital Convenient Care 105 Saravanos Dr. Yorkville, IL 60560 630-553-8200 morrishospital.org/walkincare
Wednesday, June 23, 2021 | The Times | Medical Guide 2021 7
Simple ways to MAINTAIN MEMORY as you age A
dults confront various agerelated side effects as they transition from middle age to their golden years. Skin may begin to wrinkle and hair may turn gray, but those are just the visible side effects of aging. Many additional effects are unseen, but those changes can have a profound effect on adults’ quality of life.
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111 Spring St., 5th Floor Streator, IL 11
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Dr. Andrew Jordan D.D.S. has recently opened his practice in Pontiac and is happy to be accepting new patients Hours are Monday thru Thursday 8a-5p Located in downtown Pontiac, on the square
Rosvida B. San Gabriel, MD, FAAP Board Certified Pediatrician
214 N. Main St. Pontiac, IL 61764
Personal que habla Español SM-CL1887168
8 Medical Guide 2021 | The Times | Wednesday, June 23, 2021
SM-CL1887173
815-842-3550
According to the Mayo Clinic, various parts of the body are affected by aging. For example, the cardiovascular system changes as people grow older. Blood vessels and arteries stiffen as adults age, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood through them. Though many changes are linked to aging, other changes commonly associated with aging, such as a decline in memory, reasoning and other thinking skills, are not natural. The Alzheimer’s Association notes that dementia is not a normal part of aging. There are many different types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, and these are the result of damage to brain cells that affect a person’s ability to communicate. That damage is not inevitable, even if it’s commonly associated with aging. The Harvard Medical School notes that fleeting memory problems experienced with aging often reflect normal changes in the structure and function of the brain. But it’s important that those changes not be mistaken for dementia, and it’s equally important that adults recognize there are many ways they can protect and sharpen their minds as they age.
CONTINUE LEARNING
HMS notes that a higher level of education is associated with improved mental functioning in old age. The reasons for that are unknown,
but experts theorize that advanced education compels people to remain mentally active, which in turn helps them maintain a strong memory. Even aging men and women who are still working in challenging fields can benefit from pursuing a new hobby or learning a new skill.
USE THE TOOLS AT YOUR DISPOSAL
It may seem counterintuitive to suggest that organizational tools like planners, maps and lists can help people maintain their memories. However, HMS notes that expending mental energy on finding car keys or trying to remember what to buy at the store makes it harder to learn new and important things.
LET ALL YOUR SENSES PLAY A ROLE
HMS reports that the more senses a person uses to learn something, the more his or her brain is involved in retaining a memory. HMS cites one study in which adults were shown a series of emotionally neutral images that were each presented along with a smell. Participants were not asked to recall what they saw, but were later shown a set of images and asked to indicate which they had previously seen. The participants had excellent recall for the odor-paired images, and researchers believe that’s because additional parts of the brain were activated when participants were asked to use more than one sense.
PAY ATTENTION TO CHANGE According to the National Institute on Aging, many older adults worry about memory loss as they age. In many instances, memory loss is not severe and not indicative of the onset of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. However, the Alzheimer’s Association notes it is important for aging men and women to seek support if they are concerned about their memory or any changes in the way they’re thinking or behaving. Doctors can be invaluable resources for aging men and women, offering tips on how to confront memory loss and recommending strategies that can improve cognitive function. The Alzheimer’s Association recommends aging adults keep notes the moment they notice any changes in their memory or behaviors. Start making a list of any changes you notice each day. Changes could be related to memory, thought patterns or behaviors.
The Alzheimer’s Association lists 10 warning signs for Alzheimer’s at www.alz.org/10signs.
COMPREHENSIVE
EYE CARE
INCLUDING • Diagnosis and management of ocular disease • Pediatric and medical optometry
Dr. Wendy Sanders-Maubach OD
EXCELLENCE IN FAMILY EYE CARE and EYEWEAR
Wendy Sanders-Maubach, O.D., P.C. 815.433.1426 SM-CL1889456
107 E McKinley Rd • Ottawa
drwendysanders.com
SM-CL1887164
Wednesday, June 23, 2021 | The Times | Medical Guide 2021 9
SCREENINGS RECOMMENDED FOR MEN M
en need to be proactive in regard to monitoring their overall health. This includes seeing their doctors for regular wellness visits and keeping up with recommended screenings to catch and/or prevent illnesses. While men and women can experience the same conditions, health experts recommend specific tests and screenings for men in various age groups. Johns Hopkins Medicine advises that men are at risk for certain conditions, including several types of cancer, such as prostate, colon and lung cancers. However, Harvard Medical School states men are less likely than women to get routine physical exams and screenings. An American Academy of Family Physicians survey found that 55 percent of men had not seen their doctors for a physical exam in the previous year, even though 40 percent had a least one chronic condition. While many screenings are recommended starting at age 40 or 50, men should discuss family histories and risk factors to determine if testing should begin earlier. The following are important health screenings to consider.
o PROSTATE-SPECIFIC ANTIGEN TEST: A PSA is a blood test that measures how much prostatespecific antigen is in the blood. Measuring PSA has been a standard for prostate cancer screening for 30 years. General guidelines indicate PSA screening begin at age 55. However, having at least one first-degree relative with prostate cancer could necessitate earlier testing. o COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING: Colorectal cancer screening generally occurs between ages 50 and 75. Tests include fecal occult blood tests, stool DNA tests, colonoscopy, and contrast barium enemas. Doctors will determine which tests are applicable and how often to conduct them. o DIABETES: Men who have a BMI over 25 are overweight and should consider a diabetes screening. In addition, blood pressure above 130/80 mm Hg or other diabetes risk factors could require a blood test to check for elevated glucose levels. o ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM: Guidelines recommend a one-time screening for men who have smoked between the ages of 65 and 75. o HEPATITIS B AND C: Men are at increased risk for infection if they have had unprotected sex with multiple partners, received blood transfusions or transplanted organs before June 1992, are healthcare workers who have been stuck by needles, or travel to regions with high rates of the hepatitis B virus. o LUNG CANCER SCREENING: Men should undergo a lung cancer screening through lowdose computed tomography if they are over age 55, have a 30-pack-per-year smoking history and currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years. o TESTICULAR CANCER SCREENING: Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers among young men, says Johns Hopkins Medicine. Early screening can include selfchecks. Routinely checking the testicles for any lumps or unusual features while showering can help detect testicular cancer. Doctors may order a painless ultrasound if something is discovered.
10 Medical Guide 2021 | The Times | Wednesday, June 23, 2021
How Women Can
GET A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP
A
good night’s sleep is vital to a person’s overall health. According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, people who get enough sleep get sick less often, are more able to maintain a healthy weight and are at lower risk for serious health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. But many adults are not getting enough quality sleep, and one group in particular may be especially likely to have sleep problems. A 2006 study published in the journal Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine found that women have more sleep-related complaints than men. The study suggested gender differences, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause, may underlie the observed differences in risk of sleep disorders. Women cannot control the biological factors that may make them more vulnerable to sleep issues. However, they are not helpless when it comes to their efforts to get adequate rest.
CREATE A BETTER SLEEP ENVIRONMENT
The National Sleep Foundation notes that the optimal bedroom temperature is between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining a cool sleeping environment is even more important for women than men due to the increases in core body temperature during menstruation. A cool environment is more conducive to better sleep and can help women stay cool even when their body temperatures rise due to menstruation.
BATHE BEFORE BEDTIME
A warm bath or shower prior to bedtime can lead to a decrease in body temperature, which the NSF notes can spark feelings of sleepiness. This can help with sleep onset when coupled with a cool bedroom temperature.
Surgical procedures available at St. Margarets Health, Peru and OSF Healthcare, Ottawa
Finkelstein Eye Associates SM-CL1887068
The NSF advises against consuming caffeine, alcohol and nicotine close to bedtime. Each of these substances can compromise a woman’s ability to fall asleep or stay asleep. For example, the Cleveland Clinic notes that while alcohol before bed may help people feel sleepy, that sedative effect wears off as the alcohol begins to metabolize. That process prevents the body from entering the stages of deep sleep, leading to more frequent sleep interruptions throughout the night.
The DHHS notes that establishing and sticking to a bedtime routine, including going to bed at the same time each night, can help women overcome their sleep issues. Over time, the body will readjust and grow accustomed to going to bed at this time, increasing
Board Certified Ophthalmologists Gary Finkelstein MD and Robert Pode DO
Streator • 102 W. Elm • 815.672.4600 Peru • 1915 4th St. • 815.223.1112
AVOID CERTAINS SUBSTANCES CLOSE TO BEDTIME
ESTABLISH A BEDTIME ROUTINE
Caring for your eyes close to home
• Cataracts • Diabetes • Glaucoma • Macular Degeneration • Medical Eye Care • Surgical Eye Care
the likelihood of falling asleep. Stick to this routine throughout the week, including on weekends.
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Wednesday, June 23, 2021 | The Times | Medical Guide 2021 11
LOCAL HEALTHCARE RESOURCES FOR YOUR FAMILY MARSEILLES Marseilles Healthcare Center 580 Sycamore St., Marseilles 815-795-2122 morrishospital.org/marseilles Dr. Ian Best, Pediatrics
NEWARK Newark Healthcare Center 5 N. Johnson St., Newark 815-695-5042 morrishospital.org/newark
Jennifer Frye, F.N.P.-B.C., Family Nurse Practitioner
SENECA Seneca Healthcare Center 271 N. Main St., Seneca 815-357-8511 morrishospital.org/seneca Dr. Colin Kao, Family Medicine Nina Seplak, F.N.P.-B.C., Family Nurse Practitioner
OTTAWA Morris Hospital Cardiovascular Specialists 1300 Starfire Drive 815-705-1000 morrishospital.org/cvspecialists
Morris Hospital Ottawa Campus 1306 Gemini Circle, Suite 1 815-433-9200 morrishospital.org/ottawa
Dr. Syed Ahmed, Interventional Cardiology
Dr. Paulo Aranas, Family Medicine, Obesity Medicine
Dr. Mary Gordon, General Cardiology
Dr. Melissa Hill, Pediatrics
Dr. Athar Saeed, Interventional Cardiology
Dr. Hassnain Syed, Family Medicine
Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine 1306 Gemini Circle, Suite 2 815-433-0850 morrishospital.org/orthopedics
Dr. Mir Ali, Orthopedic Spine Surgery
Angela Todd, F.N.P.-B.C., Family Nurse Practitioner
Morris Hospital Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists 1300 Starfire Drive 815-324-9700 morrishospital.org/obgyn
Dr. Raymond Meyer, Orthopedic Surgery
Dr. Victoria Ochoa, Obstetrics & Gynecology
Dr. Kyle Pearson, Foot & Ankle Surgery
Dr. Douglas Toussaint, Obstetrics & Gynecology
Dr. Keith Rezin, Orthopedic Surgery Dr. Robert Williams, Orthopedic Surgery
FOR HOURS AND PROFILES, VISIT WWW.MORRISHOSPITAL.ORG 12 Medical Guide 2021 | The Times | Wednesday, June 23, 2021