Healthy Home 2019

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Midwife, Teri is a graduate from Frontier Nursing University in Kentucky.

She began practice at Oakleaf Clinics in mid-October.

Gjerseth’s practice is centered on the “Normalcy of Birth,” a philosophy of care under which women with normal, healthy pregnancies are given the knowledge they need to navigate their pregnancies as they choose.

“Childbirth is a normal function of day-to-day life just like eating, sleeping, breathing, going to the bathroom, having sex – it’s all part of your normal physiological body process,” Teri said. While modern hospital births often proceduralize pregnancy and birth, as a midwife Teri prefers to use medical interventions such as epidurals, IV drips, induction and fetal monitoring only when medically

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ONCE HEALTH AND SAFETY HAVE BEEN ENSURED, FIRST AND FOREMOST ON TERI GJERSETH’S MIND IS GIVING WOMEN A CHOICE IN THEIR PRENATAL CARE. A Certified Nurse

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OAKLEAF CLINICS INTRODUCES MIDWIFERY CARE

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“Childbirth is a normal function of day-to-day life ... it’s all part of your normal physiological body process.”

-T E R I G J E R S E T H necessary as part of a shared decisionmaking process, or as requested by the woman as part of her birth plan.

“Wisconsin has a fairly strong midwifery presence and has for about 35 years,” Teri said. “Midwifery has really been promoted here, and I think that primarily that’s driven by the women.” By her measure, Oakleaf’s expansion into midwifery is a response to the desires of Chippewa Valley Women to have more control and

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more comfort in their healthy pregnancies.

Teri will offer care for women from adolescence through menopause, including pregnancy care and in-hospital birth, although she has extensive experience with out-of-hospital and home births. She will also provide postpartum care and nursing support, helping women navigate the many choices that present themselves in the first few days of infancy.

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“I enjoy providing families with the tools and education they need to make an informed choice about their healthcare and birth plans,” Teri said. “Birth is a very personal event, and I am honored women choose to share it with me.”

CHOOSE THE CARE THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

Some advice from Teri Gjerseth about choosing pregnancy care: • Find someone you feel comfortable with. You’ll want to enjoy making conversation with your provider – it will make discussing care easier.

• Ask about your practitioner’s philosophy of care. This will give you an idea of how much medical intervention your doctor or midwife is comfortable providing.

It’s OK to talk to several caregivers and find the person who’s right for you.

• Decide what’s right for you. Some women prefer a more managed approach to pregnancy and childbirth, while others like more control and choice. Both approaches are acceptable, as long as it’s what YOU want.

Oakleaf Clinics – OB/GYN, located at 3213 Stein Blvd. offers midwifery and typical in-hospital birth services. For more information, visit oakleafclinics.com

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M AYO C L I N I C H E A LT H SYST E M CO M BATS I N D OO R A LL E R G E N S MANY PEOPLE WHO SUFFER FROM SEASONAL ALLERGIES find relief as the weather cools and the first frost of autumn arrives. However, others struggle year-round with symptoms because they suffer from indoor allergies. An allergic reaction is your body’s immune system overreacting to a substance in your environment. Your home, school and workplace contain causes of indoor, environmental allergies. These inhaled triggers can include dust, animal dander, feathers, pollen and mold spores. Indoor allergy symptoms vary, but many people experience sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, cough, itchy and watery eyes, and skin rashes.

Mayo Clinic Health System has locations throughout the Chippewa Valley, offering a range of medical services. For more information, visit www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org

DUST MITE ALLERGY

PET DANDER ALLERGY

Dust mites are tiny bugs that live in bedding, mattresses, upholstered furniture and carpets. No matter how clean your house is, it’s impossible to completely get rid of dust mites. They are generally harmless, unless you are allergic to them. However, you can limit contact if you:

Allergic reactions to pets are caused protein in the animal’s dander (dead skin flakes) and saliva. All dogs and cats carry these proteins, so no breed is allergy-free. Help keep pet allergies in check with these tips:

• Put special dust-proof covers on pillows, mattresses and box springs.

• Limit the number of stuffed animals kept in bedrooms or wash them with the bedding. They can also be frozen and then vacuumed.

• Wash bedding weekly in hot water.

• Use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity low in your home.

• Regularly remove dust on surfaces.

• Remove carpeting on the floor, as it provides a comfortable habitat for dust mites.

• Vacuum regularly with a high-efficiency particulate, or HEPA, filter or a double-layered bag, and possibly wear a dust mask. Or ask someone else to vacuum.

• Keep your pet outdoors or restrict your pet to a few rooms in the house.

• Keep your pet out of the bedroom.

• Wash your hands after touching your pet.

• Vacuum regularly with a high-efficiency particulate filter or a double-layered bag, and possibly wear a dust mask. Or ask someone else to vacuum.

MOLD ALLERGY Molds are found in outdoor air and can enter your home any time you open a door or window. Any house can develop a mold problem with the right conditions. Molds like to grow on wallboard, wood or fabrics, but they will grow on any surface. They thrive in damp basements and closets; bathrooms, especially showers; places where fresh food is stored; garbage cans; refrigerator drip pans; house plants; air conditioners; humidifiers; and upholstered furniture. You can reduce mold in your home with these tips: • Clean bathrooms, kitchens and basements regularly, and keep them well-aired.

• Quickly clean up any spills or leaks to prevent mold from growing.

• Change filters on your furnace and air conditioner regularly.

• Use dehumidifiers or exhaust fans in damp areas.

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The first steps in treatment for any allergy is to take steps to avoid exposure to your triggers.

However, many indoor allergens are common and you can’t completely avoid them. A number of over-the-counter medications can ease your symptoms, including steroid nasal sprays and antihistamines. However, some over-the-counter medications can lead to unwanted side effects, such as drowsiness and fatigue. If over-the-counter medications don’t control your symptoms, you should contact your health care provider to help decide if other treatment options, such as immunotherapy (allergy shots), are an option for you and your family.

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STUCKY CHIROPRACTIC

family has used chiropractic care as their first line of defense against illness and ailment since the 1930s, when her grandfather took Dr. Pam’s young aunt Gyla, who suffered from chronic ear infections, to get adjusted.

From the first treatment, her infections were eased, potentially saving her from hearing loss.

This inspired all four of Gyla’s brothers, including Dr. Pam’s father, Dr. Joe Stucky, to pursue careers in chiropractic care. He opened Stucky Chiropractic in 1959. Dr. Pam is the 11th chiropractor in the family, and her daughter and son-in-law are numbers 19 and 20.

Dr. Pam has been working at the

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-DR. PAM STUCKY-LAGUARDIA

ACHY BACKS, NECKS, AND HEADS OFTEN DRIVE AILING ADULTS TO THE CHIROPRACTOR, BUT ACCORDING TO DR. PAM STUCKY-LAGUARDIA, SPINAL ADJUSTMENT SHOULD BE A FAMILY AFFAIR. In fact, her

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“When you’ve been taking care of people for so long, they become friends, and family. And I’m all about family.”

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STUCKY CHIROPRACTIC OFFERS SERVICES FOR ALL AGES

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clinic for 40 years, having started in childhood cleaning the offices. Eventually, she joined the practice as a provider along with her husband, caring for many of the patients her father treated before his retirement.

“I love people,” Dr. Pam said. “I love being able to be part of their health journey, and many times when you’ve been taking care of people for so long they become friends, and family. And I’m all about family.”

Children might not come in with the same complaints of aches and pains as grown-ups, but they have as much, if not more, to gain from chiropractic care, Dr. Pam said. She even provides adjustments for newborn infants on their way home, ensuring their nervous system isn’t inhibited and setting them up for success.

“As the tree grows, so do the branches,” she said.

In her experience, releasing the

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nervous system through chiropractic adjustment allows the immune system to fight off ear infections and other forms of discomfort that encourage temper-tantrums in youngsters. It helps repair malalignment caused by the many falls of learning to walk, ease the stress of carrying overloaded backpacks or sitting in hard, uncomfortable desks at school, and release tension from the hormonal challenges of adolescence.

When combined with a healthy diet, exercise, and nutrition, chiropractic adjustments help people of all ages lead healthy lives, Dr. Pam said.

Stucky Chiropractic offers a number of services, including massage therapy, decompression therapy, weight-loss programs, low-level laser therapy, and more. They are also preparing to launch a nutrition program to promote holistic wellness. For more information, visit www.stuckychiropractic.com.

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PREVEA PEDIATRICIAN OFFERS TOP TIPS FOR A HEALTHY CHILDHOOD

YOU MIGHT HAVE SEEN THE SLICK NEW BUILDING RISING IN ALTOONA’S RIVER PRAIRIE, all glass panels and modern brick. This is the new Prevea Altoona Medical Office Building, (3119 Woodman Drive) where families will be able to receive general and specialized care. The new health center includes an urgent care, audiologist, women’s care, an ear, nose, and throat practice, and more, all in one location in a fun and happening neighborhood. It is scheduled to open Monday, Nov. 11 with a community open house on Thursday, Nov. 7 from 3-6pm. Prevea provides care to every family member by treating patients at their health centers, and by encouraging a healthy lifestyle at home. Dr. Katie Udenberg, pediatrician, just moved to Eau Claire, but she is ready to encourage wellness at every stage with these tips for childrearing. For more information, visit prevea.com

INFANT • Always practice safe sleep with your baby: always place baby on their back to sleep, use a firm sleep surface, do not place soft items (blankets, toys, etc) in baby’s sleeping area, do not co-sleep with your baby • Give your baby breast milk or formula for the first 12 months. Baby foods may be introduced gradually beginning at 4-6 months. Ask your pediatrician for more information.

• Vaccinations are a very important way to keep your baby healthy. Regular vaccinations take place at the 2, 4, 6 and 12 month well child visits. Any child older than 6 months should get a flu shot every year.

“Have a routine to your day. This teaches your child about rules and helps them do their best when they know what to expect.”

TODDLER • Read with your child every day! Young children love books and learn from sharing books with you. Reading together can also help teach your child to talk and get them ready to listen and learn in school.

• Children often become “picky eaters” at this age. You can help your child develop a healthy appetite by eating meals together as a family and having your child help in the meal preparation. Introduce a variety of healthy foods to your child but note that it may take up to 10 times for a child to like a new food! Don’t fight with your child over food; let them learn to listen to their bodies and use hunger as their guide.

• Have a routine to your day. This teaches your child about rules and helps them do their best when they know what to expect. Have meals together as a family as often as possible. Be sure to include reading together in your routine!

• Limit screen time to two hours per day. Make sure you know what your child is watching to avoid violent and other unacceptable content. Children learn best from educational shows and games when viewed together with an adult.

-DR. KATIE UDENBERG, PEDIATRICIAN AT PREVEA HEALTH

SCHOOL AGE • Help your children develop healthy eating habits. Let them help in meal preparation and grocery shopping.

Children should have at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily; encourage them to try new foods to reach this goal. Limit juice, soda, and other sugary drinks. Eat dinner as a family as often as possible.

• Encourage children to be active as often as possible, at least 60 minutes every day. Be a good role model for your children by being active yourself or planning family activities. Remember to limit screen time to two hours per day.

• If you notice your child struggling in school, approach their teacher first. They may be able to offer further insight into your child’s behavior and academic performance at school. Ask for a plan to be put in place to help your child succeed. Be sure to bring up your concerns to your child’s pediatrician as well.

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TEENAGER • Puberty is a stressful time for both children and their parents. Talk to your child openly about the changes in their bodies and how they are feeling.

Don’t be afraid to talk to your teenager about sex; those who are best informed are more likely to delay sexual activity.

• Talk to your child about drugs and alcohol. Teach them different ways to say no to peer pressure and help them make responsible choices. Remind them that you love them and want them to be safe.

• Teach your teen about safe driving. Discourage them from driving with friends in the car, driving at night, and texting or talking on the phone while driving.

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OAKLEAF CLINICS – SOUTHSIDE MEDICAL LETS PATIENTS KNOW THEIR PROVIDERS

Complete release of information paperwork with your past healthcare providers.

Check with your insurance company to find an innetwork physician.

Bring any paperwork you need your physician to sign, including daycare eligibility, sports physical forms, or school medication paperwork.

Bring vaccination records

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screen use, especially by getting outside in the colder months to orchard and other activities.

She provides this level of investment in children, parents, and even grandparents, discussing healthy habits for older patients such as using appropriate mobility aids in the winter, and reaching out for help in maintaining driveways and other icy surfaces. Strong family support systems and neighborliness are as integral to good health as eating right and regular doctor visits.

Oakleaf Clinics – Southside Medical provides high quality, personalized medical care in a comfortable, family-friendly environment. They help you choose a healthcare provider who is right for you, and make your well-being a priority. To learn more, visit www.oakleafclinics.com or call (715)830-9990.

“It really is fun to see parents grow with their kids; their knowledge and understanding changes.”

-RACHEL PIERCE

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Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss with you or your child’s physician.

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Decide what kind of physician you want to see.

Do you prefer a male or female? Doctor or NP? Do you prefer to work with someone younger or someone with more experience?

Rachel Pierce, family nurse practitioner for Oakleaf Clinics – Southside Medical (714 W Hamilton Ave.), loves working in pediatrics.

“Just to see all the development and the changes,” she gushed. “It’s really fun to see the parents grow with their kids; their knowledge and understanding changes.”

Pierce began practice with Oakleaf in February, following work in urgent care, surgery, and in-patient family medicine.

She feels that working in a smaller, more personable clinic makes for a friendly, cooperative community of caregivers.

“Some people prefer a larger practice, others prefer more of a close-knit community type practice,” Pierce said. She works with Michael J. Smith, MD, and Jennifer Olson, FNP, to provide care. “This one’s more close knit. A lot of our patients know all of us and we know them.”

One of the advantages of the small staff is that even if a family’s regular doctor is unavailable for a same-day appointment, patients will still work with someone they

know and trust. Oakleaf offers same-day appointments and 24/7 phone support to patients whose symptoms don’t require a trip to the office.

Pierce works with Jennifer Olson, a family nurse practitioner who specializes in women’s care, and with Dr. Michael Smith, who specializes in pediatrics and internal medicine.

Together, they are able to care for patients from birth and onward, making them an easy choice for households with patients of all ages.

“It’s seriously a family-patient centered care,” Pierce said.

Part of that patient-centered care is encouraging healthy habits in daily life. Pierce especially loves teaching parents and young children about My Plate, a successor to the food pyramid that promotes eating primarily fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and a lowsodium diet. As children reach the age where they can become picky eaters, she encourages parents to introduce new foods casually and teaches them tricks for getting kids to try new things. Pierce also recommends ways to cut back on

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FROM NEWBORN BABIES TO THE GROWN-UPS WHO CARE FOR THEM,

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close-knit care

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