detecting problems in the small bowel
A significant portion radiation. This proce-It is as simple as
of the population suffers from disorders of the small bowel such as Crohn’s disease, ulcers, intestinal tumors, polyposis and vascular disorders.
In the past, the diagnosis of small bowel disease was often delayed, incomplete or the suspected cause remained unconfirmed despite multiple diagnostic procedures.
St. Claire Regional offers an easier small bowel diagnostic – the PillCam™ SB Capsule Endoscope. This tiny capsule visualizes the entire small intestine painlessly, and without dure closes the diagnostic gap and is preferred by patients. The Pill-Cam™ SB Capsule is proven to be an effective diagnostic tool in many patients who have symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, unexplained abdominal pain or weight loss, anemia and obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.
If you, or someone you know, suffer from any of the above symptoms, ask your doctor if the PillCam™ SB Capsule Endoscope is a diagnostic option for you.
How does PillCam™ SB Capsule Endoscope work?
swallowing a pill. The pill takes snapshots inside the body so SCR’s gastroenterologist, Thadis C. Cox, MD, can evaluate. The miniature camera, along with a light, transmitter and batteries, is housed in a capsule the size of a large vitamin pill.
The procedure requires no sedation or recovery time, unlike traditional endoscopy where the physician pushes a lighted instrument (endoscope) down a patient's throat to view interior regions. Images and data are acquired as the PillCam™ SB Capsule passes through the digestive system. This information is then transmitted via an array of sensors secured to the abdomen, to a DataRecorder™ affixed to a belt worn around the patient's waist. The 8-hour examination can be conducted while the patient continues normal daily activities. The disposable PillCam passes naturally and painlessly out of the body in 8 to 72 hours.
Dr. Cox is now see
ing and accepting new patients. For an appointment with Dr. Cox or more information about the PillCam call 784-6641. Dr. Cox is committed to providing the highest quality of digestive medical care.
Don’t turn your back on back pain
John Carlson, a retired pharmacist, enjoys working on old sports cars and model planes.
One late night he woke to get a drink of water when, quite unexpectedly, he passed out and fell to the floor.
A physical exam revealed vertebral compression fractures of the back; meaning, the bones of his spine had collapsed.
John was prescribed bed rest and medication to control the pain.
St. Claire Regional offers hope for patients with spinal fractures
More specifically, Carlson’s vertebral fracture was caused by osteoporosis. It’s important that you don’t ignore back pain especially if you are over age 50 as it could be a signal that you have a spinal fracture.
In the past, your options included pain medication, bed rest, and a back brace. These things helped with the pain, but didn’t treat the spinal fractures.
St. Claire Regional’s board certified radiologists Craig Butler M.D., William Lewis, M.D., and Stephen Williams,
M.Doffer an option that treats the pain and repairs the fractured bone – Balloon Kyphoplasty.
Benefits of Kyphoplasty
Balloon Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat spinal fractures. It can be performed under local or general anesthesia and typically takes about one hour to treat each fracture. In some cases, it may require an overnight hospital stay.
Balloon Kyphoplasty can restore vertebral body height, significantly reduce back pain and increase mobility,often shortly after the procedure. In addition to re-
What's behind dental cavities?
Cavities are a problem for adults and children alike. Some people seem more susceptible to cavities than others, and the pH of the mouth and other factors may play a role in the formation of cavities.
The number of dental caries, or cavities, increases with age. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, dental decay remains the most prevalent chronic disease in both children and adults, even though it is largely preventable. Although it may seem like children who love sugar would have the highest rate of cavities, data actually shows that 92 percent of adults in the
U.S.age 20 to 64 have dental caries in their permanent teeth and an average of 3.28 missing teeth. Canadian oral health statistics indicate that 96 percent of adults have dental caries.
What causes a cavity?
Bacteria is the main culprit behind cavities. Bacteria migrate into the mouth and are constantly present on the gums, teeth and tongue. While most oral bacteria are not harmful, certain types can prove troublesome. Bacteria attach to the enamel of the teeth and eventually start to form a colony. Proteins present in saliva mix with the bacteria, which then forms a hard layer on the tooth known as plaque.
Sugar plays a role in the process because the bacteria use sugar as a food source. The sugar also helps them stick to the tooth surface, making it more difficult for bacteria to be cleared away with saliva. As bacteria eat the sugar, they produce waste, which is acidic. Over time, this acid can wear away at the tough enamel on teeth, making it porous. These holes can become bigger,eventually forming what is known as a cavity.
It may take a while before you realize you have a cavity because the enamel of the tooth doesn't have nerve fibers. But once the cavity becomes large enough to expose the sensitive dentin within, pain ensues. Preventing cavities
Cavities can be largely prevented by brushing and flossing regularly to remove extra bacteria from the teeth, and preventing them from attaching and building up on the teeth.
Regular dental checkups and cleanings also play a preventative role. Dentists have equipment that can effectively clean teeth in areas that can sometimes be difficult to keep clean with just manual brushing. High susceptibility to cavities
Medications and biology can affect the pHof a person's mouth and contribute to the formation of dental caries. When pH drops, demineralization of the tooth enamel occurs and cavities form. Some forms of bacteria contribute to tooth decay more than others.
As mentioned, sugar feeds bacteria growth. Research by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has found that it's not often the amount of sugar eaten at a given time, but the frequency of sugar exposure that can lead to cavities. Sucrose, it seems, is bacteria's prefered energy source. Saliva production is important for keeping bacteria at bay. Individuals who produce less bacteria, due to medication or their physical history, may be ducing pain, patients experience an increased ability to return to simple, everyday activities such as walking, reaching, bending and lifting. Patients also report improved and sustained mental health, vitality,social function and emotional health. "After the procedure, you could see that the vertebra went back to its normal shape and size. I left the hospital with no limitations on my activities - I felt fabu
lous!” said
more susceptible to cavities.
Dental caries are a common health problem. Knowing what causes them can help with prevention.
Carlson.
CTA: Don’t let back pain win. Get Checked If you suffer from a sudden onset of back pain and/or local tenderness accompanied with muscle spasms you may have a spinal fracture. If you are diagnosed with a spinal fracture, ask your doctor if Balloon Kyphoplasty is right for you. For more information on Balloon Kyphoplasty at St. Claire Regional call 7836761.
•4 ASUPPLEMENT TO JOURNAL-TIMES • JANUARY18, 2012 HEALTHY LIFE
THE MOREHEAD NEWS • JANUARY20, 2012
Beware buying medicines online
The Internet has made it possible for consumers to buy just about anything without ever leaving their homes. Whether looking for a pizza or a car,consumers can find whatever they need with a few clicks of the mouse.
But buying merchandise online always comes with a degree of risk, and that's especially so when buying medicine over the Internet. Not all Web sites that sell medicine are trustworthy, and many physicians feel buying medicine online is never a viable option. Recognizing the risk involved in such a transaction, the Food and DrugAdministration offers the following advice to consumers consider purchasing medicines over the Internet.
Learn about medicines before ordering
Consumers should learn as much as possible about the medicines they plan to purchase before placing an order. Know what the medicine looks like, including its color, texture, shape, and packaging. If the medicine has a particular taste or smell, make note of that before taking any medication purchased over the Internet.
Know what you're buying
Many Web sites that sell medicine are perfectly legal and trustworthy. However, just as many,if not more, Web sites sell medicine that has not been checked or approved by the FDA. These drugs might contain the wrong active ingredient or too much or too little of the active ingredient, making them ineffective and possibly even deadly.These faulty sites appear just as credible as their legitimate counterparts, but sell ineffective or dangerous drugs to consumers who don't know what they're getting in return.
In an effort to increase awareness among consumers purchasing medicine online, the FDA purchased and analyzed a host of products that were sold online as Tamiflu, which is used to treat some types of influenza infection. The active ingredient in Tamiflu is oseltamivir,but in one package purchased by the FDAonline the drug they received as Tamiflu contained none of the active ingredient oseltamivir.Similar problems were reported by consumers who purchased Ambien,Xanax, Lexapro, andAtivan over the Internet. Instead of receiving these drugs, consumers received products containing the foreign version of Haldol, a powerful anti-psychotic drug that sent consumers to the emergency room, where they were treated for a host of ailments.
When shopping for medicine online, the FDAnotes the following signs of a Web site that's trustworthy:
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- The site is located in the United States.
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- The Web site is licensed by the state board of pharmacy where the Web site is operating.
- *
- The Web site offers a licensed pharmacist available to answer any questions.
*TheWeb site provides accessible contact information that allows consumers to talk to a person if they have any comments or questions.
- *
- The Web site has an accessible and understandable privacy and security policy for its consumers.
- *
- The Web site does not sell consumer information without consent.
- *
- The Web site only sells prescription drugs to consumers with an existing prescription.
More information about prescription medication safety is available at www.fda.gov.
How to use diet to supplement your workout routine
Men and women who have successfully adopted healthy lifestyles know full well that combining exercise with a healthy diet is the key to getting and staying healthy. Simply visiting the gym won't work if it's not coupled with a healthy diet.
But many people incorrectly assume that a healthy diet is one devoid of taste. That simply isn't true. In fact, a healthy diet does not necessarily restrict foods, but how frequently some of those riskier foods can be consumed. The following are some of the steps men and women can take to ensure their workouts aren't losing their effectiveness due to unhealthy eating habits.
*Start the day off with a healthy breakfast. Many foods make healthy breakfast options, including fruit and whole-grain cereals. Unfortunately, onthe-go men and women often reach for what's readily available, and what's readily available isn't necessarily healthy. Avoidbreakfast sandwiches that are high in fat and calories, and avoid eating fried foods for breakfast.
For those men and women who prefer to workout first thing in the morning, keep in mind it's important to eat before working out, even if those workouts are in the wee hours of the morning. Working out on an empty stomach can cause feelings of lightheadedness. In addition, many people are sluggish if they exercise on an empty stomach, which can make workouts less effective. If eating before a morning workout isn't your thing, consider going with a small snack before beginning your routine. If even that is not ideal, then consider a snack before bedtime. However, this option won't necessarily prove effective, as your body might just consume all of the energy this snack provides while you're asleep.
*Reassess your snacking habits. If greasy potato chips or sleep-inducing baked goods like brownies are your idea of the perfect snack, then it's time to reassess your snacking habits. Snacks should not induce sleep, but provide a little extra energy and reduce any hunger pangs. Fresh fruit, yogurt, energy bars, and even whole-grain crackers with a little peanut butter each make for a healthy snack that won't zap you of valuable energy
Core exercises becoming more popular
Fitness-conscious men and women have no doubt noticed the growing popularity of core exercises. Core exercises are those that focus on the body's core muscles, or those around the trunk and pelvis. These exercises are a focus of fitness center programs and have even been integrated into the workout regimens of professional athletes in all sports.
But those unfamiliar with core exercises might not understand why they have become so popular,or why they have proven so effective. The following are some of the reasons core exercises have become such a significant part of many training regimens.
- *
- Core exercises help improve balance and stability.Core exercises require the core muscles, including the abdominals, hips, lower back, and pelvis, to work together. When muscles work together, the result is improved balance and stability,which helps athletes perform better and non-athletes better cope with the physical demands of everyday life.
- *
- Core exercises improve the appearance of abdominals. While it might not be the best reason to workout, physical appearance is a significant reason many people have
such a strong commitment to exercise. Core exercises strengthen and tone the underlying muscles of the abdominals. When coupled with aerobic activity that burns abdominal fat, core exercises help turn flabby abdominals into the envy of fellow fitness enthusiasts.
- *
- Core exercises impact everyday life.Another reason many people commit to working their core muscles is the impact such activity has on everyday life. Core exercises help improve posture, which can reduce, if not eliminate, lower back pain and other muscle injuries. Eliminating that pain can greatly improve quality of life. In addition, core exercises can make it easier to excel in sports such as golf, a benefit that, to golfers, is worth its weight in gold.
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- Core exercises are free. Core exercises can be done without any costly machinery, and men and women can do them at home without having to pay for a monthly gym membership. However, it helps to get some instruction before beginning a core exercise regimen, as the exercises are not easy and the risk of injury is high for the inexperienced who don't have anyone to show them what to do.
during the day.
*Let food help your muscles recover. Some people feel they might negate the positive effects of their workout if they eat immediately after exercising. That's not necessarily true. In fact, foods that contain protein and carbohydrates can actually help your muscles recover after a workout.Yogurt (Greek yogurt is packed with protein), fruit, dried fruit, and nuts make great post-workout food options, and none will negate the effect of that grueling workout you just finished. In general, the longer you wait to eat after exercising, the longer it will take your muscles to recover.
*Stay hydrated. Water is an essential part of a healthy diet, and it's even more essential before, during and after a workout. When exercising, your body will lose a significant amount of water, well. which can cause the Daily exercise is esbody to dehydrate. sential to longterm Drink water before and health. But all those after your workout, and hours in the gym won't don't forget to focus on pay off if they're not staying hydrated dur-combined with healthy ing your workout as eating habits.
Free Carotid
Screenings
Friday, Jan. 27
beginning at noon
at King’s Daughters Family Care Center – Olive Hill 391 West Tom T. Hall Blvd., Olive Hill, Ky.
Appointments are required.
King’s Daughters Medical Center, in conjunction with the Kentucky Heart Foundation, isofferingfree carotid arteryscreenings.
The screening isavailable topeople age 50 and older,and those with risk factors such as diabetes, or a history of smoking or heart disease.The screening consists of an ultrasound screening exam of the carotid arteries tocheck for blockages and/ or weaknesses.A Kentucky Heart Institute heart specialist willreview the results of the ultrasound screening with participants.
a cardiovascular research institute
1.866.HEART.KY (432-7859)
Carotid Artery Disease occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the brain become narrowed or blocked. This can lead to stroke. Find out more about carotid artery disease and your risk by participating in our free screening.
| kdmc.com
HEALTHY LIFE A SUPPLEMENT TO JOURNAL-TIMES • JANUARY 18, 2012 • 5
THE MOREHEAD NEWS • JANUARY 20, 2012 •6 A SUPPLEMENT TO JOURNAL-TIMES • JANUARY 18, 2012 HEALTHY LIFE
THE MOREHEAD NEWS • JANUARY 20, 2012
