or Something Else? - St. Louis Health and Wellness Magazine

Transcription

S T. L O U I S
F
TAKREE
EO
NE
The New Face
of ADDICTION
How to Know
When Your Aging Parents
Need Assistance
ISBodyITFat
HOW CAN
OUR NORMAL MALE TESTOSTERONE
LEVELS BE SO ABNORMAL?!
Hemorrhoids-2016
STOP THE BLEEDING,
STOP THE SUFFERING
or Something Else?
2
April 2016
Health and Wellness Magazine
April 2016
3
4
April 2016
April 2016
CONTACT US
PUBLISHER
ALVOS Marketing Group
Lyndsi Koszo
314.282.5011
[email protected]
www.STLHealthAndWellness.com
St. Louis Health&Wellness Magazine can be found in over 1000 St. Louis medical facilities including, hospital’s, doctor’s, chiropractor’s and dentist’s offices. Find a copy of
your FREE St. Louis Health & Wellness Magazine in most grocery and convenience
stores as well.
To get your article published and for ad rates, call 314-282-5011
[email protected]
Alvos Marketing Group, LLC | 6290 Ronald Reagen Dr. #177 | Lake St. Louis, MO 63367
©Copyright ST. LOUIS / ST, CHARLES HEALTH & WELLNESS Magazine 2013. All
rights reserved. Any reproduction of the material in this magazine in whole or in part
without written prior consent is prohibited. Articles and other material in this Magazine are not necessarily the views of St. Louis Health & Wellness Magazine. St. Louis
Health&Wellness Magazine reserves the right to publish and edit, or not publish any
material that is sent. St. Louis Health & Wellness Magazine will not knowingly publish
any advertisement which is illegal or misleading to its readers. The information in St.
Louis Health & Wellness Magazine should not be construed as a substitute for medical
examination, diagnosis, or treatment.
5
6
April 2016
My Aching Lower Back...
By James Sturm DO DABA FIPP
If you have lower back pain, you are not alone. Nearly everyone at some point has back pain that interferes with work, routine daily activities, or recreation. Americans spend at least $50 billion each year
on low back pain, the most common cause of job-related disability and a leading contributor to missed
work. 85% of Americans will experience low back
pain sometime in their lifetime and accounts for 25%
of lost workdays. Fortunately, most occurrences of
low back pain go away within a few days. 95% of the
patients will recover in the first 12 weeks of the onset
of the low back pain. Other cases take much longer
to resolve or lead to more serious conditions. Some
causes of back pain can become more serious if left
untreated. The long-lasting back pain or chronic back
pain is measured by duration — pain that persists for
more than 3 months is considered chronic. Chronic
low back pain can be more difficult to resolve, especially if adhesions develop.
Chronic causes of back pain are defined by the 3 areas of the spine. The front part of the spine contains
the disc, disc space, and body of the vertebra. The
middle portion of the spine contains the spinal canal,
spinal nerves, spinal fluid, and disc herniations. The
back part of the spine contains the facet joints, ligaments, and muscle. Any one of these elements or
combination of these elements can cause back pain in
patients. Treatment options for these problems often
overlap. Rarely other conditions such as infection
and cancer can involve the spine causing pain. This
article is part 3 in this series on My Aching Lower Back focusing on disc herniation or commonly
known as a slipped disc.
If you lived to age 100, chances of developing some
degree of degenerative disc disease are nearly 100%.
Degenerative disc disease is not really a disease but
a term used to describe the normal changes in your
spinal discs as you age. Spinal disc are made up of 2
components. The outer portion is arranged in layers
of a very tough fibrous type material. The contained
inner portion of the disc is more gelatinous in nature.
Spinal discs are compressible spacers that separate
the interlocking bones ( vertebrae ) that make up the
spine and form the spinal canal. The spinal discs act
as shock absorbers for the spine, allowing it to flex,
bend, and twist. Degenerative disc disease can take
place throughout the spine, but it most often occurs
in the discs in the lower back (lumbar region) and
A significant percentage of all disc herniations occur at the L4-L5 level. The next most common disc
herniation is the L5-S1 followed by the C5-C6 level.
Where the disc herniation occurs, will affect what
type symptoms the patient experiences. Herniated
disc in the low back can cause low back pain, low
back/leg pain and isolated leg pain, whereas disc herniations in the neck can cause neck pain, neck pain/
arm pain, headaches, and isolated arm pain. Symptoms from a disc herniation can range from little or
no pain, to severe and unrelenting neck or low back
pain into the regions of the affected nerve(s) that are
irritated or impinged by the disc herniation. Often
disc herniations symptoms are not readily apparent
and patients can have poorly defined pains in the
neck, arms, thighs, knees, or feet. Other symptoms
can include numbness, tingling, or decreased muscle
strength.
the neck (cervical region). The degenerative changes
occur with a loss of water content and tears in the
outer tough fibrous layers causing them to separate.
The amount of degenerative changes can vary widely
amongst different patients.. These age-related changes include tiny tears or cracks in the outer layer capsule of the disc. The jellylike material inside the disc
( nucleus ) may be forced out through the tears or
cracks in the capsule, which causes the disc to bulge,
break open ( herniate ), or break into fragments.
Herniated discs are most common in people in their
30s and 40s. One out of 3 individuals in the United States will develop a disc herniation sometime in
their life. Sixty to eighty percent of these patients
will not need spine surgery and will get better with
conservative therapy. Disc herniations can rarely
occur large enough to cause permanent nerve damage and even paralysis. Disc herniations in the neck
can cause compression of the spinal cord. Disc
herniations are more likely to occur in people who
smoke cigarettes and those who do heavy physical
work ( such as repeated heavy lifting )/or trauma to
the spine. If the patient develops muscle weakness,
numbness in the buttocks, difficulty with urination
or having a bowel movement, or inability to walk,
these can be a medical emergency and should be seen
immediately.
Treatment options start with the less aggressive therapies such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, manual therapy, and staying mobile with
activities of daily living. Studies have shown bed
rest more than 4 days can worsen the patient’s longterm outcome. Patients should avoid lifting more
than 5 pounds or activities that cause significant
worsening of symptoms to prevent further worsening
of the disc herniation. More aggressive options can
include pain medications, oral steroids, epidural steroid injections, microdiscectomy, open discectomy,
artificial disc replacement, and surgical fusion.
Arch Advanced Pain
Management
James Sturm DO DABA FIPP
830 Waterbury Falls Suite 202
O'Fallon, Missouri 63368
(636) 244-5004
April 2016
Food As Medicine
Hippocrates, a Greek physician in the 4th century, said, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” It was true then and it is just as true today.
This is easily noted when in the 1700’s sailors recognized that those who ate
citrus fruit were able to avoid the disease known as scurvy and those that
missed out on the citrus fruit developed scurvy. When those sailors with scurvy were given citrus fruit, they became well again. It was the Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in the citrus fruit that was needed by the body to function properly.
It seems so easy in hindsight to be the detective in the scurvy case but at the
time it was not so obvious.
We learned from this history that there is a definite link between nutrients in
food and disease. Given our Standard American Diet (appropriately called
SAD) it is no wonder that heart disease, diabetes, cancer and dementia rates
are skyrocketing!
Did you know that 75 percent of children ages 7 -11 already have beginning
signs of heart disease in their blood vessels? Yes you read that correctly--3 out
of 4 children are already sick!
Did you know that 79 million people live with prediabetes? The numbers are
growing with 25 million people in the U. S. already having the disease and 7
million of these do not even know they have it yet!
Did you know that a woman has a 38 percent lifetime risk of developing cancer
and if you are a man that risk increases to a 45 percent chance in his lifetime?
Did you know that the projected number of people suffering from dementia
in 2030 will be 75.6 million people and it is expected to triple by 2050 to 135.5
million people?
Do you understand that this is not normal? Our modern lifestyle is making
us sick!
7
We sit too much and eat without thinking. Then we wonder why we are sick.
The only way to reverse the trend is to change our choices and we do that by
informed decision-making. We have to choose to eat healthfully and be fit
through activity or exercise. We have to educate ourselves through reliable
sources on how to be smart consumers. Personal responsibility is key for a
positive outcome with your diagnosis.
Good nutrition is our foundation to a healthy life. Foods such as fruits and
vegetables have a bountiful number of phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals
in them all working together. These nutrients keep our bodies functioning
normally and help fight off disease.
Nutritional scientists are trying to identify and understand how each one
works and the effects they have on the human body. There are thousands
of phytochemicals in fruits and vegetables and we understand only a few of
them. For instance lycopene is the best known phytochemical in tomatoes. We
know lycopene is a carotenoid and it helps reduce the risk of prostate cancer
by activating phase II enzymes. Yet, lycopene is just one of thousands of phytochemicals in a single tomato.
Yellow and red onions also are powerful in the fight against cancer. They are
considered an allium vegetable and contain organosulfur compounds. When
the cell walls of this vegetable are broken – by chewing or chopping – then the
chemical reaction begins. This reaction appears to detoxify cancer cells and
halt their growth. So if you eat onions everyday then you may have stopped a
cancer in its tracks without ever even knowing you had it!
Educated food selection is your first line of defense in maintaining your health
or improving your illness. Modern medicine and medications have their place
in your treatment AFTER YOU have done your part! According to the listed
disease trends, you may be fighting for your life and not even know it yet.
Camp Jump Start
877-520-5867
www.campjumpstart.com
8
April 2016
The Truth About
By Dr. Chris Maffit
Delta Spinal Care Holistic Health and Wellness Center
Statins, High Cholesterol and Heart Disease
Tens of millions of Americans are currently taking one of the cholesterol-lowering drugs known
as statins. Moreover, many so-called “experts”
suggest that millions of more individuals should
go on them. The drug industry giant, Pfizer, has
even introduced a children’s chewable version
of its popular statin, Lipitor. You may also have
heard of Crestor, Simcor, Vytorin, and Zocor. Statistically, if you are 45 years of age or older, you
have a one-in-four chance of having taken a cholesterol lowering medication this morning. If you
or a loved one fits this description, you need to
continue reading this article. What I share with
you can have a very real impact on your health
and quality of life.
Statins are HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, that is,
they act by blocking the enzyme in the liver that is
responsible for making cholesterol (HMG-CoA reductase). The fact that statin drugs cause side effects
is well established. There are now more than 900
studies proving their adverse effects. They are attributed to a wide range of complications from muscle
problems to an increased risk of cancer. Other known
side effects include anemia, acidosis, nerve damage
in the hands and feet, serious degenerative muscle tissue conditions, sexual dysfunction, immune depression, pancreas and liver dysfunction, and cataracts.
While muscle problems are the best known adverse
side effect of statins, cognitive problems and memory loss are also widely reported. There is evidence
that issues with blood glucose elevation, tendon
problems, and even an increase in risk of Lou Gehrig’s disease may correlate with statin use.
By now you should be asking yourself, “If this group
of statin drugs has so many known and well documented adverse side effects why do so many Americans continue to take them and doctors prescribe
them?” Sadly, much of the answer resides with profit
margins and an outdated, debunked theory that high
cholesterol causes heart disease. Statins are big business. Use of statins rose by a whopping 156 percent
between 2000 and 2005, rising from $7.7 billion to
$19.7 billion annually. Forbes now estimates that
statins represent 6.5 percent of the total market share,
becoming the most widely sold pharmaceutical drugs
in history and accounting for over $26 billion in annual sales. Pfizer reported spending over $3 billion
a year to convince us that we need more and more
drugs to be healthy. Over this same time period the
nearly 900 studies mentioned above were published
showing the damage statins inflict. The truth is that
high cholesterol DOES NOT cause heart disease and
ninety-nine out of 100 people do not need statin drugs.
Parents beware. Researchers and many doctors
are now calling for universal school screenings of
children to check for high cholesterol to find those
“in need of treatment.” In addition, older siblings,
parents, and other family members might be prompted to get screened as well in order to uncover additional, previously undiagnosed adults that are in
need of the drug. This is clearly NOT the way to
improve public health. On the contrary, it could produce a new, massive wave of extremely dire health
consequences in just a few years time. So, rather
than improving school lunches, which would cost
about a dollar a day per child, they’d rather “invest”
ten times that amount for tests and drugs that in no
way, shape, or form address the root cause, which is
an improper, unhealthy diet!
The only subgroup that might benefit from statin sue
are those born with a genetic deficit called familial
hypercholesterolemia which makes them resistant to
traditional measures of normalizing cholesterol. If
your doctor is urging you to check your total cholesterol, then you should know that this test will tell you
virtually nothing about your risk of heart disease, unless it is 330 or higher. HDL percentage is a far more
accurate indicator for heart disease risk.
Here are the two ratios you should pay attention to:
• HDL/Total Cholesterol Ratio: Should ideally be
above 24 percent. If below 10 percent, you have a
significantly elevated risk for heart disease.
• Triglyceride/HDL Ratio: Should be below 2.
People with total cholesterol levels over 250 can actually be at a low risk for heart disease due to their
elevated HDL levels. Conversely, there are many
people with cholesterol levels under 200 who have
a very high risk of heart disease, based on their low
HDL.
Your body NEEDS cholesterol—it is important in
the production of cell membranes, all the steroid
hormones (testosterone, estrogen and progesterone), vitamin D, and the bile acids that help digest
fat. Cholesterol also helps your brain form memories and is vital to your neurological function. There
is strong evidence that having too little cholesterol
INCREASES your risk for cancer, memory loss,
Parkinson’s disease, hormonal imbalances, stroke,
depression, suicide, and violent behavior.
If you take statins, you must take CoQ10. Without
it your health is at serious risk. CoQ10 is a cofactor
(co-enzyme) that is essential for the creation of ATP
molecules, which you need for cellular energy production. Organs such as your heart have higher energy requirements, and therefore require more CoQ10
to function properly. Statins deplete your body of
CoQ10 by inhibiting its precursor, cholesterol, with
devastating results. Physicians in the U.S. rarely inform people of this risk and only occasionally advise
them to take a CoQ10 supplement. Canadian law
requires that all statins carry a label warning of the
risk of CoQ10 depletion.
April 2016
As your body gets more and more depleted of CoQ10, you may suffer from fatigue, muscle weakness
and soreness, and eventually heart failure. Coenzyme Q10 is also very important in the proces of
neutralizing free radicals. So when your CoQ10 is depleted, you enter a vicious cycle of increased
free radicals, loss of cellular energy, and damaged mitochondrial DNA. If you decide to take a CoQ10
supplement and are over the age of 40, it is important to choose the reduced version, called ubiquinol.
Ubiquinol is a far more effective form and has a vast range of known health benefits.
There is really no reason to take statins and suffer the damaging health effects from these dangerous
drugs. The fact is that 75 percent of your cholesterol is produced by your liver, which is influenced
by your insulin levels. Therefore, if you optimize your insulin level, you will automatically optimize
your cholesterol.
9
Delta Spinal Care
Holistic Health and Wellness Center
314-725-3358
www.deltaspinalcare.com
8403 Maryland Ave.
Clayton, MO 63105
My primary recommendations for safely regulating your cholesterol have to do with modifying your
diet and lifestyle as such:
• Reduce, with the plan of eliminating from your diet, grains and sugar. Eat the right foods for
your nutritional type and consume a good portion of raw food.
• Make sure you are getting plenty of high quality, animal-based omega 3 fats, such as krill and
fish oil.
• Other heart-healthy foods include olive oil, coconut and coconut oil, organic raw dairy products,
eggs, avocados, raw nuts and seeds, and organic grass-fed meats.
• Exercise daily. Make sure you incorporate peak fitness exercises, which also optimizes your human growth hormone (HGH) production.
• Address your emotional challenges and stressors.
• Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol excessively.
• Be sure to get plenty of good, restorative sleep.
Unlike statin drugs, which lower your cholesterol at the expense of your health, these lifestyle strategies represent a holistic approach that will benefit your overall health—which includes a healthy
cardiovascular system.
You can personally contact me for additional information or to schedule a one-on-one consultation.
Dr. Christopher J. Maffit was born in
Portland, Oregon and has lived most
of his life in St. Louis County. He began studying towards a Bachelor of
Sciences/Pre-Med degree at St. Louis
Community College at Meramec and then at the
University of Missouri in Columbia.
In 2001, he received a B.S. in Human Biology and
a Doctorate of Chiropractic degree from Logan
College of Chiropractic in Chesterfield, Missouri.
Immediately upon graduation, Dr. Maffit, along
with two classmates, launched Delta Spinal Care
in Clayton, Missouri.
The doctors of Delta Spinal Care are committed to
providing the tools necessary to empower others to
create a life where they are truly thriving.
10April 2016
How to Know
When Your Aging Parents
Need Assistance
By Denise S. Pott, LCSW - Assistance Home Care
If you are a long distance caregiver, you may not see your parents often, so occasional visits may present your only chance to detect changes in their well-being. This can be difficult for several reasons. First, they will likely be excited
for your visit, giving them an emotional lift. This, in turn, can improve their
appearance and give them energy that they may not normally have. They may
spruce themselves up, go to the barber or beauty shop, pick out something
fresh to wear. In general, you may find them looking much better than they do
on a day-to-day basis. After your visit, like a deflated balloon, they may sink
back to the level where they were before.
Still, the aging parent can only keep up this wellness act for a short time. If an
adult child coming from a distance can stay a few days, he or she does have a
chance to get a fresh look at how the parents are doing. Their input can help the
caregiver who sees the parents daily, since a primary caregiver may not notice
subtle changes.
Another reason that changes can be difficult to detect is that primary caregivers
who visit on a more regular basis, tend to do what needs to be done, and may not
notice that certain abilities are being lost. That's when someone who only sees the
elders occasionally can be really helpful. So, what should you watch for that could
help you decide if you need to suggest to your parents that they get some help?
TAKE A LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
Look at the rugs. My neighbor used to have wood floors and scatter rugs all over.
I had to fight with him to get those rugs removed, finally agreeing to slide them
under the bed, so he could get at them if he wanted to (he never did.) Scatter rugs
are a favorite with many elders, but they can be dangerous. Try to get rid of them,
or at least get them to let you put rubber backed rugs down.
Showers and tubs should be checked. Do they need grab bars? A good shower
chair? A hand-held shower? Tub mats in and out of the tub need to be firmly attached and non-skid.
The dishes they use daily should be on low shelves. Most elders don't do fancy
cooking. Encourage them to let you help arrange dishes and pans in the most
convenient fashion.
Replace door knobs. Door knobs can be replaced with levers, which are easier for
aging hands to use.
Consider long-handled grabbers. Long-handled grabbers can help keep your
parents from stooping over to pick things up off the floor, if they have problems
staying steady.
TAKE A LOOK AT YOUR PARENTS
Check their balance. Speaking of 'staying steady,' how is their general balance?
Falls are one of the worst problems for elders as they can lead to broken bones,
especially hips, and complications from a broken hip can lead to death. If you see
one of your elders is wobbly, try to talk him or her into seeing a doctor. Balance
problems can be an early sign of dementia, or simply that joints are bad. They may
have numbness they aren't mentioning or an inner ear infection.
Don’t forget to check their medications and alcohol habits; be aware of medications that can cause dizziness. There are many reasons elders get wobbly, so it
can take some doing to figure out the cause. However, it’s necessary to get to the
bottom of balance issues or they won’t be safe.
Are they eating well? Elders often don’t have big appetites, but if you notice significant weight loss, you may want to take a look in their pantry and refrigerator.
If they aren’t eating well, you can suggest Meals-on-Wheels, a community program that brings a nutritious dinner to elders for a very reasonable price. If eating
doesn’t seem to be the issue, then a complete physical should be done to see why
the weight loss is happening.
Do they seem depressed? Depression could be the hardest thing to notice if you
are coming for a rare visit. As I mentioned above, your parents may be extra excited to see you, so their depression, which perhaps a sibling has mentioned, may
temporarily lift. However, do watch for signs of depression, such as sleeping too
much, loss of interest in former hobbies they once loved (without other reasons
such as failing eye sight), no appetite, or no interest in anything at all. Also, most
seniors love getting mail, so if you see piles of mail lying around unopened, depression may be an issue. You may want to ask a good friend or neighbor about
your parents’ general moods when you aren’t there. Someone who sees them frequently may get a better handle on depression.
April 2016
11
You and you parents may feel better if you line up some in-home care for
them. Personal medical alarms are another good way to stay at home longer.
If you approach your parents in a way that lets them know you want to help
them stay in their home, they are more likely to cooperate. If they are resistant, you may want to tell them that you need for them to have help—that
you are worried and can’t focus at work, that it will give you so much peace of
mind if you know that someone is looking in and helping out when needed.
Companies such as Assistance Home Care provide non-medical home care
aimed at keeping older adults safe and in their own homes for as long as they
wish to remain there. Occasional visits or daily care is available, and is more
affordable than you may think. Better yet, it will give them the care they need
and will give you peace of mind. Why not call today to discuss how we can
help?
Assistance Home Care
636-724-4357
www.AssistanceAtHome.com
DO MOM AND DAD COVER FOR EACH OTHER?
Couples who have been together for a long time can help each other read, eat and do
other things so common to daily life that no one stops to notice that they are such a
team they are 'filling in the gaps' for each other. Often, even they don't know this is
happening. When you visit, try to "separate" the team a bit. See if Dad's hearing is getting worse, but Mom is hearing for him. See if Mom's balance is bad in the morning,
but Dad is getting her breakfast and making sure she is steady before anyone else sees
her. In other words, see if it takes a team for them just to hang on.
Teamwork is wonderful, and it's beautiful to see long-married couples working seamlessly beside each other. However, if there are health issues that need tending to, this
teamwork can be detrimental. Getting each of your parents alone helps you identify
strong and weak points.
One thing to remember when you visit is that you shouldn't swoop in and try to
change everything. Just get a feel for what is going on, how your parents are doing, in
general, and what needs to be done. Then offer to help them get things done.
TALK ABOUT IN-HOME CARE
Often, elders won't disclose that they are having trouble, because they think they may
have to go to a nursing home. They should know about in-home care agencies and
how they can get just a few hours a week of help. Many elders can stay in their own
homes much longer than they thought, because they get some in-home care for bathing and other hygiene, some medication supervision and even some light housekeeping. The caregivers who come in from agencies are generally trained to watch for the
kind of things discussed in this article, and more.
Assistance Home Care is the trusted name in St.
Louis area home care. Our flexible hourly and live in
home care plans enable St. Louis area elders and
their families to choose as much care as they need
whenever they need it. Providing the best home
care in St. Louis is so important for families caring
for an aging parent or loved one at home. After
all, few things are more unsettling than knowing
that your parent or loved one is home alone and
in need of care. Every day families juggle between
caring for their parents, working, and maintaining
a busy family life of their own. We are here to help
you and your family by providing customized hourly and live in home care solutions. We are there
with you to answer your home care questions and
help you and your family every step of the way to
make informed decisions on the best possible aging in place options for you and your loved one
right at home.
12April 2016
Are You a Fat Burner
or Sugar Burner?
By Drs. Jen and Jason Rhodes
The answer
to this question
has a profound
effect on weight loss
goals and on how healthy
we will be. Our bodies can
burn two types of fuel for energy: fat and sugar. Fat is our most
efficient energy source and, under
healthy conditions, we get most of our
energy from fat. Sugar, on the other
hand, is the body’s turbo charger—
the fuel that we use when we need a
sudden burst of energy.
Your body is not designed to burn
sugar as its primary fuel. The problem is that we have conditioned our
bodies to burn primarily sugar for energy. Our diets today are completely
different from the diets of our early ancestors. Food is plentiful, and
starch and sugar are the norm—not
the exception. This is one reason why
many individuals will go on a calorie-restricted diet and lose five to 10
pounds, then stop. Your body will
break down protein from your muscle, converting it to sugar, then stop—
and the only weight loss you achieve
is muscle loss.
Two major factors that push the body
into an unhealthy mode of energy
production: 1) stress and 2) eating
foods that are burned as sugar. Many
factors—some obvious and some hidden—create a stress response. Usually, diet is the biggest factor. Sugar and
starch push your energy metabolism
in the direction of sugar-burning, as
does excessive protein. On the other hand, healthy omega-3 fatty acids push your energy metabolism in
the direction of burning fat, and unhealthy oils block your ability to burn
fat.
Once you change your diet, it usually
takes about three weeks for the cells
in your body to develop the habit of
burning fat instead of sugar. The levels of insulin and leptin decrease and
your cells start paying attention to
these energy-regulating hormones.
For more information on how to
lose the fat once and for all, call Dr.
Rhodes office at (314) 983-9355 to
attend one of our free informational nights.
ATTEND
FREE INFORMATIONAL
NIGHT
APRIL 14TH - 7:00PM
Call (314) 983-9355
11710 Old Ballas Rd., Suite 205
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
April 2016
There’s a Reason
We Love ’Em
13
By Allison White, ACSW, LCSW, CCDP-D
Wellness Alley, LLC
They make us laugh, smile, cry and – all of a sudden,
we’ve forgotten the troubles of the day, the bills, the
work left to be done or the loneliness when no one
is around. I can’t imagine how different life would be
without sharing it with a pet.
What else in our lives has the power to make such
a profound change as pet ownership? Having a pet
offers health benefits – like decreased blood pressure, lower blood sugar and reduced rates of obesity
– and mental health benefits – such as lower stress
hormones, and decreased anxiety and depression.
Pets inspire us to get up and do something, and often demand it, which forces us to be more active. For
those who find it a challenge to meet new people, pets
give us an instant icebreaker. They trigger our “feel
good” hormone, oxytocin, resulting in the drive toward connection. We are hardwired to connect with
others, but in our busy world, we often find ourselves
pushed to achieve fame and fortune, while becoming
more isolated. Technology promotes a virtual sense
of connection, but it’s not fulfilling in the long run.
Sometimes we don’t realize how depleted of connection we are until we soak up the affection our pets
give us.
Connecting occurs free of judgment, criticism and
competition. It’s about meeting each of us where
we are and not where we think we should be. That’s
how our pets connect. To our furry companions, it
doesn’t matter if we were overlooked for a promotion,
or if we’re wearing old sweats and no makeup, or if
we’ve gained a few pounds. This special connection
between us humans and our pets goes much deeper than the eye can see – deep into the heart, where
true, unconditional love grows. If we allow ourselves
to stay there in the moment, it’s there that we experience real life as it was meant to be – simple, joyful,
playful. In the moment, we can experience peace and
joy in their simplest forms.
regardless of species. We smile and cry as we watch
soldiers reunite with their exuberant pets, or a beloved dog encouraging “her” child to recover from
extraordinary injuries. These “miracles” give us all
hope that, yes, we can overcome adversity, tragedy
and pain, and recover from whatever obstacles we’ll
have to face. Somehow, watching these animals survive, thrive and embellish life in its simplest form
graces us with the gifts needed to move past our own
challenges.
This is what draws us to our rawest emotions when
we watch cute animal videos on social media. There
are puppies kissing babies, cats befriending birds,
dogs saving their people from dangerous situations,
elephants playfully dancing to the beat of music, and
therapy pets brightening people’s lives. There are animals who miraculously survive tragic situations and
rebound to become even stronger. We marvel at the
absurdity of some of the animal antics and the remarkable relationships they have with one another,
Animals fill a void that some of us never know we
have until the pet is gone and we are left with the unbearable loss that we were unprepared to face. Even
as we navigate through the grieving process, we long
to connect with another pet. It’s a risk, since we know
our hearts will break again, but the power of the
heart-opening connection we experience with our
pets will draw us back to them over and over again.
My private practice specializes in counseling pet
owners and caregivers who are faced with many chal-
lenges of pet ownership. By helping them deal with
pet challenges, I open their hearts to the power of the
connection, to the healing needed when loss arises,
and to connecting again when the time is right. Future articles will address the power of this human-animal connection, so please stay tuned. There’s more
to come!
Allison White,
ACSW, LCSW, CCDP-D, CHC
WELLNESS ALLEY, LLC
314-899-7140
www.wellnessalley.com
14April 2016
April 2016
15
CHOOSING OUR LEGACY
By Justine Froelker, MEd, LPC, CDWF
The woman who did not try hard enough or long
enough.
The woman who gave up on her dream to be a mother.
The childless woman.
I suppose I may live the rest of my life proving these
judgments wrong, but not to you or for you but for myself because they are not my truth.
My hope, especially my hope for the future, has meant
finding the peace and clarity within the lifelong losses
of infertility and my work of being okay.
I do not honor myself, especially my babies, by allowing
my whole story to be my struggles and loss. I only honor
myself and them by doing the work of forever healing.
This is the work for all of us who have survived any struggle, trauma, loss or tragedy in our lives.
We choose to do the work. We choose how we are
forever changed, and yet, always healing.
What I do with my life is my legacy on this earth. And
the same is for you. Our legacy is left with every breath
we take on this earth. By the love we share with others,
how we walk with nature and the work we do, but most
of all in the connections and relationships we have with
others in our lives.
My legacy will not be in my own biological children or
in how many books I sell or how many clients I see.
My legacy is left in how my soul transforms your soul, in
how my light shines into your light and how my love influences even just a tiny bit of your own metamorphosis.
My legacy is my choice.
“I said to my soul, be still and wait without hope,
for hope would be hope for the wrong thing; wait
without love, for love would be love of the wrong
thing; there is yet faith, but the faith and the love are
all in the waiting. Wait without thought, for you
are not ready for thought: So the darkness shall be
the light, and the stillness the dancing.”
When hope grows up we choose the legacy we leave.
Justine Froelker, MEd, LPC, CDWF • 314.283.6264 • www.jbftherapyandcoaching.com
~ T.S. Eliot
16April 2016
“If left untreated, Lipedema can lead
to other serious conditions. ”
Is It Body Fat or Something Else?
Let's face it! We silently curse the dimpled cellulite that has settled on our thighs, the extra weight that just seems to creep up as
we get older. But not everyone stores fat the same way. There is a
disease where fat accumulates abnormally in arms and legs that
can actually harm your health.
Lipedema is a hereditary disease that is often mistaken for obesity and occurs mostly in the female population. It is a condition
that affects the fatty tissue in the legs and sometimes the arms.
Lipedema does not usually respond to regular diet and exercise
and can occur in all sizes of people.
Symptoms of Lipedema include legs that look like columns and
have larger lower halves. Additionally, they are often tender and
may bruise easily.
Dr Wright understands this painful disease and is creating the
awareness that there is hope! He is one of the very few vein specialists to be able to diagnose Lipedema and then skillfully and
effectively treat the disease. He will actually be a featured speaker at an upcoming conference on Lipedema at the Fat Disorders
Research Society Conference, April 8th and 9th at the St. Louis
Marriot Hotel.
April 2016
LIPEDEMA TREATMENTS
Treatment can include manual lymphatic drainage using massage technique movements to stimulate the flow of lymph fluids in the blocked areas returning them back to healthy vessels.
This therapy can also include using compression garments to
increase the pressure in the swollen areas and reduce fluid buildup. Certain exercises can also help to reduce this fluid mobility
and boost mobility. Finally, liposuction techniques such as water
assisted procedures can help remove lipedema fat.
17
THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO HELP FIGHT THE APPEARANCE OF LIPEDEMA
•
•
•
•
•
Maintain a healthy diet – This is a crucial step in managing
lipedema. While lipedema is not very responsive to weight
loss, unfortunately weight gain can make it worse. In a way
the lipedema fat traps excess calories but won’t release them
when weight loss occurs. The diet should eliminate sugars,
fast foods, processed foods, unhealthy oils and other such
foods. It is crucial to at least maintain a calorie balance to
avoid weight gain that will worsen lipedema.
Exercise is important – It is important to exercise to keep the
lipedema under control. Patients should especially exercise
the legs. Some of the best exercises are walking, cycling, and
swimming. Exercise not only maintains muscle mass but
also stimulates the lymphatic circulation which help control
lipedema symptoms.
Manual lymph drainage – This should be undertaken once
or twice a week and has been shown to be very effective in
battling lipedema. A special massage technique essentially
opens the lymphatic vessels to allow natural drainage of the
fluids. This is often combined with brushing and wraps.
Wear compression garments – Wearing compression garments is important, especially in combination with lymph
drainage massage. Compression garments promote venous
and lymphatic drainage and help prevent swelling. Earlier
stages of lipedema often only require lower degrees of compression.
Supplements and medications – There are several nutritional
medications and supplements that have been shown to be
helpful for the symptoms of lipedema, these include Diosmin, which is an extract of citrus fruit. There are also several
medications doctors can prescribe which can help control
the pain and swelling of lipedema.
It is very important that a correct diagnosis is made so the proper course of treatment can be implemented. If left untreated, Lipedema can lead to other serious conditions.
If you are concerned about Lipedema or would like to know
more about this debilitating disease, please contact Laser, Lipo
and Vein Center and they will help you find the best treatment
options to help you live a better life. Dr Wright and his experienced team of professionals can diagnose and provide you with
the best treatment option for you.
O’Fallon Center
3449 Pheasant Meadow Dr.
Suite 100
O’Fallon MO 63368
Chesterfield Center
13449 Olive Blvd.
Suite B
Chesterfield MO 63017
Call (636) 614-1665
www.LaserLipoAndVeins.com
MEET
Thomas Wright M.D., F.A.C.P., R.V.T
Thomas Wright M.D., F.A.C.P., R.V.T, is the medical director of Laser Lipo and Vein Center
and the leading vein doctor and liposuction specialist in St. Louis. He is one of the first twohundred-plus surgeons in the nation to become diplomates in Phlebology by the American
Board of Phlebology (aka a vein doctor and vein disease expert). Phlebology is the specialty
that treats the totality of venous disease. Dr Wright was voted by his peers as one of St Louis
Magazine TOP DOCS in 2009. He has authored and presented several scientific papers on new
surgical techniques for the treatment of venous insufficiency. He has received numerous honors including Election to the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society, the AMA Physician
Recognition Award and appointment as a Howard Hughes Research Fellow.
Dr. Wright has been awarded the Patients’ Choice Award in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013, and the
Compassionate Doctor Award in those same years. In 2012, he won honors from the American College of Phlebology for his original research. In 2013, HealthTap gave Dr. Wright the
Top Doctor Award and named him Top Phlebologist (aka Top Vein Doctor). He is a Fellow of
the American College of Physicians and is an instructor and faculty advisor for the American
Society of Nonsurgical Aesthetics. He is a member and contributor of original research to the
American College of Phlebology and a Fellow of the American Society of Laser Medicine and
Surgery as well as a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. Dr Wright is a
certified medical sonographer credentialed by American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Dr. Wright is also a true liposuction specialist, proving artistic body sculpting using
safe liposuction techniques like Tumescent Liposuction. His research and areas of special interest include venous health, minimally invasive body sculpting techniques and vein treatments.
18April 2016
HOW CAN
OUR NORMAL MALE TESTOSTERONE
LEVELS BE SO ABNORMAL?!
By Dr. Mike Williams
According to many popular sources, normal male testosterone blood levels
fall between 250 – 1200 ng/dL (whether you are 18 or 80 years old). It just
makes sense that our levels of testosterone should be higher in our late
teens than when we are in our eighties, but most labs do not take age into
consideration for testosterone results in men.
Following is a list of “normal” laboratory ranges
of Testosterone from popular sources:
Company
“Normal” Levels (ng/dL)
WebMD™:
Quest Labs™:
LabCorp™:
250 – 1070
250 – 1100
348 – 1197
WHAT ARE SOME SYMPTOMS OF LOWER
“NORMAL” TESTOSTERONE LEVELS?
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN TO YOU?
According to our U.S. medical system:
• It’s the one hormone that differentiates men from women.
• Fatigue
• If you are 20 years old with a testosterone level of 1065 you are normal.
• It’s the hormone that helps men
grow more muscles.
• Decreased mental clarity
• It’s the hormone that boosts a man’s
metabolism and helps strengthen
his bones.
• Decreased libido
WHY DO MALES NEED HIGHER
“NORMAL” LEVELS OF TESTOSTERONE?
• Decreased motivation/drive
• INCREASED body fat
• It’s a major player in sexual function,
drive, and delivery.
• If you are 20 years old with a testosterone level of 351 you are also normal.
• If you are 65 years old with a testosterone level of 351 you are normal,
but:
• If you are 30, 40, even 65 years of
age with a testosterone level of 960
you are still within normal range!
WHY CALL US?
1. We will identify your current testosterone level (usually within 48 hours).
2. We will increase your testosterone level to a safe goal.
3. We will make sure your “Low-T” symptoms improve.
4. We will monitor your progress and prevent negative side effects.
5. We will get you back in the game.
Call Now for a “No Charge” Consultation: (636) 272-8888
* Must be medically necessary
8633 Mexico Rd • O’Fallon, MO 63366
(636) 272-8888
www.Testosterone-STL.com
April 2016
h
t
u
r
T
The
19
Pelvic
about
Mesh
By Edward S. Levy, MD
Have you heard enough about vaginal
mesh and slings?
Unfortunately, most of the information on television commercials and on the internet is not
very accurate. My goal in this article is to set
the record straight and explain the pros and
cons of procedures using mesh. Like any surgical procedure, complications do occur, but
when used carefully, in the right patients and
with proper training and experience, both slings
and mesh are very valuable tools. They have
improved the lives of many women while causing relatively few complications compared with
other operations.
Every subsequent surgery carries an even higher risk of failure and of complications. That’s
where mesh comes in. Using mesh either abdominally, laparoscopically, robotically, or vaginally will reduce the risk of failure of an initial
surgery, and thus reduce the risk of needing a
repeat surgery, and if used for a repeat surgery,
will improve the chances of long-term success.
So, to summarize, not all patients need mesh,
but used properly, it can reduce the risk of reoperation for surgical failures and has a very low
risk of serious complications. The vast majority of patients report significant improvement in
quality-of-life and sexual function.
So why do we ever use mesh in surgery? To answer that question, we need to review a few stats. Women have, on average, a
7-10% chance of needing pelvic floor surgery at
some point in their lives. The problem is, 30%
of those women will need that surgery repeated
due to eventual failure of the original operation.
Finally, a sling procedure for stress urinary incontinence (leaking with coughing, sneezing, or
laughing) should be distinguished from a mesh
procedure for pelvic prolapse. The two common
types of outpatient slings have the best combination of safety and effectiveness in treating stress
incontinence of any incontinence surgery ever
invented. The incidence of serious complications from these very narrow strips of mesh-like
material is extremely low when the surgery is
performed for the right reasons by surgeons with
the proper training and experience.
The bottom line is this: Women with bothersome pelvic floor disorders such as prolapse
and urine leakage should be reassured that safe
and effective treatment is available, with or
without mesh.
Metropolitan Obstetrics,
Gynecology & Urogynecology, P.C.
Edward S. Levy, MD
816 S. Kirkwood Road, Suite 100.
Kirkwood, MO 63122
314-686-4990
20April 2016
Hemorrhoids-2016
STOP THE BLEEDING, STOP THE SUFFERING
By Levi S. Kirkland, Jr., M.D.
Hemorrhoid suffers frequently deal with their symptom
flare-ups as just a normal part of everyday life. They
often anguish quietly without seeking medical help.
Embarrassment and the fear of possibly needing surgery keep them going to the drugstore for over-thecounter remedies.
Hemorrhoids are one of the most common conditions encountered in the United States. It has been estimated that more than
50% of the population over 50 years of age have experienced
some issue related to hemorrhoids. Epidemiological studies have
shown that 10 million people with the United States have reported hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids are vascular cushions that are part of the normal
anatomy of the anal canal. We become concerned when abnormal symptoms are related to hemorrhoids. They are found primarily in three locations: left lateral, right anterior, and right posterior positions of the anus.
Classically, hemorrhoids are categorized as Internal Hemorrhoids, which are above the dentate line and External Hemorrhoids, which are located below the dentate line.
Symptoms
A patient may experience a plethora of symptoms related to piles.
Internal Hemorrhoids are associated with bleeding, prolapse,
swelling, discomfort, itching, discharge, evacuation difficulties,
and hygiene problems. External Hemorrhoids are usually asymptomatic, unless they have thrombosed. Under these circumstances a painful lump will be encountered.
GRADING OF HEMORRHOIDS
• Grade 1 - Non-prolapsing internal hemorrhoids
• Grade 2 - Prolapse of hemorrhoids during defecation with
spontaneous reduction
• Grade 3 - Prolapse of hemorrhoids that require manual reduction
• Grade 4 - Prolapsed and incarceration of hemorrhoids that
cannot be reduced
April 2016
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
Obtaining a good history with emphasis and explanation of the symptoms is of the utmost importance.
Pain, bleeding, prolapse, drainage, and difficulty with defecation are all symptoms that help to determine
treatment choices. Anoscopic examination is an accurate and efficient way to visualize the anal canal. This
procedure is essential in making decisions regarding hemorrhoids.
21
CONSERVATIVE MEDICAL TREATMENT
The over-the-counter preparations have as a primary objective to make defecation easier and reduce swelling. These compounds contain antiseptics, astringents, anesthetics, and corticosteroids. Increase in dietary fiber is also recommended. Theses modalities will benefit as a first-line approach for patients with
very mild symptoms.
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT
A. Infrared Coagulation- This approach is accomplished by placing an infrared radiation probe, which
converts to heat energy directly on the hemorrhoid plexus. The heat causes tissue destruction, protein
coagulation and scarring. Several sessions are required for effective treatment. In general, this approach is felt to be less effective than some other approaches.
B. Rubber Band Ligation (RBL)- RBL is considered an excellent alternative for patients with Hemorrhoidal Disease. This is often performed as a in-office procedure. The technique uses an instrument to
deliver two rubber rings just above the internal hemorrhoids. When released, it constricts tissue and
the blood supply to the hemorrhoid plexus is cut off. This results in ischemic necrosis and sloughing
of the hemorrhoid tissue. Rubber band ligation has been found to be a very effective and durable procedure and is ideal for Grade 1, 2, and 3 hemorrhoids. Patients generally feel a dull, aching sensation
for 24-48 hours. This, however, is usually well tolerated and patients can return to work immediately.
Three office sessions are usually warranted.
OPERATIVE TREATMENT
There are several operative techniques for hemorrhoids. All are quite effective. However, the potential for
post procedure pain is real. The anxiety as it relates to pain, probably accounts for reluctance of the general
public to seek help from their physician. The surgical approach occasionally will be complicated by a tear
at the suture line. A burning sensation during defecation may follow for a short period of time. This will
heal with time and patience. Medications and measures to maintain an easy flowing stool does minimize
the occurrence of this minor complication. As a general rule, surgical intervention is the most effective
means of reducing the possibility of reoccurrence. Surgical intervention is reserved for the most severe
(typically Grade 4) hemorrhoids. Surgical hemorrhoidectomy is reserved for patients who are refractory
to office procedures.
In summary, patients need not suffer a lifelong challenge of hemorrhoids. There are many various approaches to this vexing problem. See your hemorrhoid specialist today.
STL Hemorrhoid Center
Levi S. Kirkland, Jr., M.D.
University Tower Bldg.
(Across from Galleria)
1034 S. Brentwood Blvd. Suite 694
St. Louis, MO 63117
CALL FOR APPOINTMENT
314 644-1411
www.stlhemorrhoid.com
22April 2016
The New Face of ADDICTION
By Arturo C. Taca, Jr., MD - Diplomate-American Board of Addiction Medicine, Diplomate-American Board of Psychiatry and
Neurology Medical Director- INSynergy
There is a new face of addiction in America. No it’s
not the urban, mid 30 year old, non-Caucasian, uneducated, jobless, male. The drug is surprisingly not an
illegal drug. The new face of American addiction is a
white, teenager, suburban junkie. Yes, children from
educated backgrounds, from families with solid value
systems, and from neighborhoods you may be living in
that you thought were safe from drug dealers, overdoses, and drug related crime.
Yes, this may be your American Dream, but in the
last decade, the American Dream has quickly become
a Suburban Nightmare. To add to this epidemic, the
drug that has become a favorite among young teenagers is not even illegal. We are talking about prescription drug use.
Many times kids don’t even have to leave the safety of
their own homes to “score”. It can start with stealing
powerful pain killers like vicoden or percocets from
their parent’s drug cabinet. “I started experimenting
with my dad’s pain killers and within 3 months I was
completely addicted to them and unable to stop and
having terrible withdrawals from them if I didn’t use
that day”, says an 18 year old who is now in treatment
for his addiction. “It started out wanting to try them
out, I didn’t think they were addicting, my dad was
prescribed them and I thought they were safe, boy I
was wrong”.
“What we are seeing in our program is an epidemic
we’ve never seen before”, says Ashley Halker, Program
Director at INSynergy in St. Louis. “We’re seeing normal kids from normal backgrounds addicted to pain
killers living in fear and feeling like there is no way out”.
It is estimated that more than 50 million Americans
suffer from chronic pain. When treating pain, healthcare providers have long wrestled with a dilemma:
How to adequately relieve a patient’s suffering, while
avoiding the potential for that patient to become addicted to pain killers. (SAMHSA)
The nonmedical use and abuse of prescription drugs
is a serious public health problem. Although most
people take prescription medications responsibly, an
estimated 52 million people (20 percent of those aged
12 and older) have used prescription drugs for nonmedical reasons at least once in their lifetimes. Young
people are strongly represented in this group. The
National Institute on Drug Abuse’s (NIDA) Monitoring the Future (MTF) survey found that about 1 in 12
high school seniors reported past-year nonmedical
use of the prescription pain reliever Vicodin in 2010,
and 1 in 20 reported abusing OxyContin—making
these medications among the most commonly abused
drugs by adolescents.
Unintentional overdose deaths involving opioid pain
relievers have quadrupled since 1999, and by 2007,
outnumbered those involving heroin and cocaine.
Just recently, overdose deaths from pain pills overtook deaths from car accidents for the first time in
history. More than 37,000 deaths were reported from
overdoses from opiate pain pills. The trend continues
to climb at frightening rates.
Preventing and recognizing prescription drug abuse
Physicians, their patients, and pharmacists all can
play a role in identifying and preventing prescription
drug abuse.
PHYSICIANS.
More than 80 percent of Americans had contact with
a healthcare professional in the past year, placing
doctors in a unique position, not only to prescribe
medications, but also to identify abuse (or nonmedical use) of prescription drugs and prevent the escalation to addiction. Doctors should be alert to the fact
that those addicted to prescription drugs may engage
in “doctor shopping”—moving from provider to provider—in an effort to obtain multiple prescriptions
for the drug(s) they abuse.
PATIENTS.
For their part, patients can take steps to ensure that
they use prescription medications appropriately: always follow the prescribed directions, be aware of
potential interactions with other drugs, never stop
or change a dosing regimen without first discussing
it with a healthcare provider, and never use another
person’s prescription.
PHARMACISTS.
Pharmacists dispense medications and can help patients understand instructions for taking them. By
being watchful for prescription falsifications or alterations, pharmacists can serve as the first line of defense in recognizing prescription drug abuse. Some
pharmacies have developed hotlines to alert other
pharmacies in the region when a fraudulent prescrip-
tion is detected. Moreover, prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs), which require physicians
and pharmacists to log each filled prescription into
a State database, can assist medical professionals in
identifying patients who are getting prescriptions
from multiple sources. As of this moment, 49 States
and 1 territory have enacted legislation authorizing
PDMPs, 34 of which are operational. Prescription
Drug Monitoring Programs allow physicians and
pharmacists to track prescriptions and help identify
patients who are “doctor shopping.” Unfortunately,
Missouri is the only state not to have such a program
in place.
Leaders and addiction specialists hope to change this
situation by increasing awareness and promoting additional research on these powerful pain pills. Prescription drug abuse is not a new problem, but one
that deserves serious attention, before more faces become memories in scrapbooks.
Are you or a family member
struggling with substance abuse,
please call INSynergy
(314) 649-STOP
(314) 649-7867
April 2016
23
When Your Child is
Diagnosed with
It is a situation that all too many parents face these days.
After a lengthy assessment, the doctor informs them their
child has autism.
These parents leave the doctor’s office with a spinning
head. Unsure of what autism means, who to call or where
to look for treatment, many parents turn to the Internet,
resulting in more questions than answers. It is challenging
to sift through websites and blogs to determine the recommended treatments from the “blue sky” solutions.
AUTISM?
By Liz Kinsella, MSW, BCBA, LBA, Thrive Autism Solutions, St. Louis
Most parents are going to do everything they can to help
their child. What healthcare professionals want to avoid
is the heartbreaking situations where families have spent
countless hours, remortgaged homes, or borrowed money
to pay for unproven treatments that have marginal results.
Doctors or other parents often suggest that these unproven treatment options are worth trying, but the research disagrees. The National Institute of Mental Health, the U.S. Surgeon General, and the American Academy of Pediatrics
all endorse Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as the clinical
standard-of-care treatment for autism.
Based on more than 40 years of research, ABA uses scientific principles of human behavior and learning to teach
children with autism. Studies indicate that children receiving intensive behavioral therapy make the most long-term
gains in terms of development and increase in IQ. Time
spent in unproven therapies is time that a child could be
spending in an evidence based treatment program.
ABA programs use positive reinforcement to reward and
increase appropriate developmental and social behaviors. Board Certified Behavior Analysts will determine the
function of inappropriate or potentially harmful behaviors
in order to decrease those behaviors and teach more appropriate alternatives.
Under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, individualized ABA therapy programs can increase
skills in communication, play and social interaction, selfcare, and everyday routines like toilet training or going to
the grocery store. To those parents scouring the Internet
for answers and help in the middle of the night, look to
science for answers and to learn more about how ABA
treatment can change lives.
Thrive Autism Solutions
9374 Olive Bvld. Ste 101
Olivette Mo 63132
314.932.2402
www.ThriveASD.org
LIZ KINSELLA, MSW, BCBA, LBA, is Program Director
for Thrive Autism Solutions St. Louis. Thrive is one of the
few Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) providers accredited by the CARF International accrediting body. ABA,
when delivered properly by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), can change lives. For more information
314-932-2402 or visit www.ThriveASD.org.
24April 2016
TOXICOLOGY
PICK YOUR POISON
By Kimberly Hoff,
Pharm D, BCPS, BCACP, CDE, MSMTM
Poisoning occurs in all ages. However, over 50% of
the poisoning results from exposures in children
younger than 6 years of age and 39% result in children younger than age 3. Most common poisoning
substances are analgesics, cosmetics and personal
care products, cleaning substances, sedatives, anti-psychotics, foreign bodies, toys, topicals, anti-depressants, cough and cold, pesticides, and cardiovascular drugs. The most commonly associated
fatalities include sedatives, anti-depressants, acetaminophen, alcohols, and anti-convulsants.
Upon exposure, patient stabilization is most imperative task initially. Stabilization involves airway clearing, breathing, and circulation. Decontamination is
the second step. Strategies are orogastric lavage, syrup of ipecac, activated charcoal, urine alkalinzation
or whole bowl irrigation. Activated charcoal is beneficial for patients with an intact or protected airway
and used within 60 minutes. Whole bowel irrigation
is most efficacious in sustained-release or enteric
coated tablet ingestion.
Decontamination of acetaminophen, alcohol, oral
hypoglycemic agents, and cardiovascular agents are
the most common studied. Acetaminophen is metabolized to a toxic chemical which accumulates
and results in cell injury, liver failure, and potentially death. The management of overdose first involves
evaluation of time since ingestion. If within one hour,
activated charcoal can be given to decrease gastrointestinal absorption. However, outside this hour of
opportunity, the antidote used is N-acetylcysteine.
This chemical provides a substrate for binding or preventing the toxic metabolite formation. It is typically
given orally every 4 hours for 72 hours, monitoring
liver toxicity, acetaminophen concentrations, and
symptom resolution. However, it may also be given
intravenously due to shorter duration of action and
less side effects. Pharmacists play a role in N-acetylcysteine use via enforcement of correct dosing and
duration.
Alcohol toxicity is less common than acetaminophen
overdose and involves methanol and ethylene glycol
ingestion. Methanol is found in automobile products as well as household cleaners. Ethylene glycol
is found in brake fluid and anti-freeze. If poisoned,
the individual experiences dizziness, agitation, nausea and vomiting, and cognitive impairment. Fomepizole is administered via IV and is considered the
anti-dote. Fomepizole use is monitored for hypoglycemia, polyuria, polydipsia, gastrointestinal discomfort, and alcohol levels.
Although monitoring is completed thoroughly with
cardiovascular therapies, toxicity associated with
cardiovascular agents accounts for 90,000 adult exposures per year. Calcium channel blocker overdose
results in low blood pressure and slow heart rate. If
patient presents within two hours, orogastric lavage
or activated charcoal can be used followed by whole
bowel irrigation. In the event of more serious presentation, atropine and fluid. Intravenous calcium assists
in elevating the low calcium levels. The calcium salt
used can be extremely irritating to patient with poor
venous access, thus, hyperinsulinemic therapy is often chosen. Other therapies include cardiac pacing,
phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and balloon pumps.
Oral hypoglycemic toxicity is not as common as
the prior agents, however, the severity of the toxicity is death in unaddressed poisoning. The common
agents include metformin, sulfonylureas, and thiazolidinediones. Patients may exhibit nausea, vomiting,
metabolic acidosis, elevated heart rate, and sweating. Initial management of overdose involves airway,
breathing, and circulation stabilization. The protocol
or standard of care depends on time since ingestion
and blood glucose reading. If the blood glucose is
less than 70 mg/dL and it has been within two hours,
activated charcoal is used. If it has been past two
hours and patient is alert, oral carbohydrates are given. If patient is experiencing altered mental status,
IV dextrose is injected. Following these strategies, if
patient’s blood glucose is greater than 70 mg/dL on
two separate occassions, continue hourly monitoring
for the first 24 hours. If blood glucose fails to rise to
above 70 mg/dL, octreotide, or diazoxide or glucagon
is administered. This toxicity require intensive blood
glucose monitoring.
Anti-psychotic and anti-depressant overdoses lack
any specific reversing agents. Instead, treatment includes general supportive care focusing on airway,
breathing, circulation, and monitoring. Patients may
experience central nervous system depression, dizziness, elevated heart rate, low blood pressure, tremors,
nausea, vomiting, seizures, cardiac toxicity, and/or
mental impairment. The medications used to resolve
or improve symptoms are IV fluids, norepinephrine
or phenylephrine, benzodiazepines for seizures, and
diphenhydramine or benztropine for central nervous
system affects.
In conclusion, toxicology knowledge is powerful.
It provides an understanding of the most common
agents overdosed in addition with common procedures for treatment and prevention. If any questions
regarding chemical ingestion, call poison control @
1-800- 222-1222.
Kimberly Hoff
Pharm D, BCPS, BCACP, CDE, MSMTM
(636) 448-2695
April 2016
25
Thomas Wright, MD, Featured Speaker
FDRS National Conference
April 2016, St. Louis, MO.
Dr. Thomas Wright, Board Certified physician and specialist in Venous &
Lymphatic Medicine, will be a featured speaker on Lipedema Disease
at the Fat Disorders Research Society Conference – April 8th – 9th at the
St. Louis Marriot Hotel.
Lipedema is a chronic, painful fat syndrome disease that occurs mostly
in the female population. It can often be misdiagnosed as simple obesity. But, this abnormal accumulation of fat can often be debilitating
and affect a person’s mobility. Lipedema mostly affects the legs, but
it can also be in the arms as well. If left untreated, it can also lead to
other serious medical conditions.
Fat Disorders Research Society is a not for profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for all people affected by adipose
tissue disorders. FDRS bi-annual congress gathers medical experts from
around the world that specialize in fat disorders, which are either rare
or do not receive proper recognition.
Dr. Wright understands this painful disease and is creating the awareness that there is hope! He is one of very few vein specialists to be able
to diagnosis Lipedema and then skillfully and effectively treat the disease using state of the art lymph sparing and water assisted liposuction
techniques.
For more information about this disease, the conference, or if you would
like an interview with Dr. Wright, please visit fatdisorders.org, or contact
Dr Wright at www.laserlipoandveins.com or call 636 614 1665.
When it comes to a child with ADHD, social
skills do not necessarily come naturally to
them. Many children with ADHD lag behind
their peers and also tend to be a little more
immature than others their same age.
By Dr. Rhodes DC, BCIM
There are strategies to help your child make
friends and be socially interactive. And this
includes places such as school, neighborhood friends and at other social activities
that your child may belong to.
You can demonstrate and rehearse these
social interactions with your child. For example, instead of a child saying “This is boring,”
teach them to say, “Can we play something
else for a little while?”
Progress may come slow, so make sure you
praise your child’s efforts along the way.
You can also talk to your child about what
makes a good friend and make sure you are
close by to observe the interaction of a play
date. Playing with a little bit of a younger child
can also give them the opportunity to ‘practice friendship skills’ without being made fun
of. And as a bonus, the younger friend will
most likely look up to the older friend. This
will instill self-esteem and confidence in them
and give them a better chance at making
friends with their peers.
Keep in close contact with your child’s school
teacher(s) and ask if they can be paired up
with someone who they think would be patient with them to tackle some classwork and
school projects together. Working with other
classmates will strongly encourage your child
to practice his social skills.
By Drs. Jen and Jason Rhodes
Social Skills and ADHD
26April 2016
FREE PARENT
INFORMATION NIGHTS
ADHD in KIDS
April 7th 2016
April 21st 2016
1 855 STL ADHD
Seating does fill up fast
As your child learns new social skills, be patient and continue to gently suggest new advice. Every child may not be a social butterfly
and that’s OK. Studies show that having one
close friend is enough to help develop self
-confidence.
If you are interested in learning more about
the brain of an ADHD child and how neurofeedback can actually retrain the brain in a
natural way without the use of medications,
come to one of our FREE parent information nights on either January 7th or 21st 2016.
Seating does fill up fast so call 1 855 STL ADHD
or visit www.stladhd.com.
April 2016
The Mindset of
27
MENOPAUSE
By Frank Nuber, RPh
After having traveled through the ups and
downs of perimenopause, many women welcome the onset of menopause, the true finale
of their baby-making years. Women excited
about this prospect often remark:
“I don’t have to worry about getting pregnant
anymore!”
“No more down time because of my ‘monthly
visitor!’
“Gosh, I’ll save money not buying contraception
and tampons!”
“Yippee! My guy and I can now have sex any
time we want!”
For other women, menopause is viewed as
their entry into “being an old woman.” Losing
their ability to get pregnant (read: being young)
makes them feel as if they are one step closer to
the grave. These women often say:
“I’m all dried up.”
“I don’t know what I’m going to do now.”
“People look at me as if I’m old.”
“I feel old.”
It’s a matter of mindset. Entering menopause
can be a scary and exciting time for women. It
does mean the end of creating new life within
their bodies, but it doesn’t mean life is over. In
fact, if viewed from a different angle, menopause
is the perfect time for a woman to give birth to…
herself.
Many women are taught from a young age that
serving others is a noble endeavor. Buying into
this idea can mean, however, that these women
put aside their own wants and needs in service of
others. This can include bosses, lovers, parents,
and children. By always placing others’ needs
first, women can lose touch with themselves.
This is one reason that, when perimenopause begins, they feel as if their world is crashing down.
On a likely more subconscious level, women
who place others’ first know their role will be
changing. Children grow up. Parents grow old.
Spouses can grow apart. Jobs can be stressful.
Time alone can be…frightening.
Certainly hormonal changes can spark all kinds
of mental and emotional responses, which may
leave women feeling out of control, as if they are
losing their minds. If they don’t recognize what
is happening, they may believe it’s the way it
has to be and cope as best they can. Sadly, some
turn to prescription medications such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety concoctions. Others
begin to self-medicate. Still others realize that
they don’t have to live with what perimenopause
dishes out and seek true help through bioidentical hormone replacement, diet changes, and exercise programs. Perimenopause can be viewed
as the long goodbye to possible pregnancies, or,
perhaps more healthily, the long hello to a new
way of being alive.
Women didn’t used to live long enough to reach
menopause. Now that they do, it’s time to reframe what this phase of life can actually mean
for them. Christiane Northrup, in her book,
Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom, defines
menopause as a new beginning and an initiation.
“What we have to lose is not nearly so valuable
as what we have to gain: finding our own voices
and the courage to speak our own truth. When
women do this, they are truly irresistible in their
power and beauty.” (2002, pg. 572) Northrup
firmly believes that menopause is the breakout
point for women to reach their individual potential – to become those “wise women” who
aren’t afraid to break barriers, speak their truth,
and express themselves in newfound ways.
Changing one’s mindset isn’t easy, but it’s certainly not impossible. Anyone reading this article and thinking, “Hey, that’s me Frank’s talking
about!” has an advantage – awareness is half, if
not more, of the mindset battle. Consider trying
at least one of the suggestions below. The road to
loving your menopausal self might not be easy,
but the rewards can far outweigh the alternative.
1. Journal. If you find negative thoughts swirling
in your head, put them on paper. Two things
can happen when you do this. The first is that
you are getting the thoughts out of your head,
which can make room for more productive
thinking. The second is you might read what
you’ve written and realize things are not as
dire as they might have sounded in your head.
2. Get Outside. Studies show that being outside
in nature helps to calm our psyches, put us
back in touch with the earth, and recalibrates
our thoughts. Even if it’s only for five minutes,
being outside has tremendous mind-body
benefits.
3. Replace Consumption of Unhealthy Foods and
Beverages with Healthy Choices. A diet high in
carbohydrates, sugar, and fatty foods will undermine your attempts at altering your mindset, not to mention feed your body in an unhealthy way. As you reduce unhealthy eating
for healthy choices, your body will respond.
You might find you have more energy, clearer
thoughts, and better skin.
4. Practice Gratitude. As noted, women didn’t
use to live this long. Rejoice that you have and
celebrate!
5. Get your Hormones Checked.
Medicine Shoppe
505 Salt Lick Road, Saint Peters, MO 63376 • 636-278-6561
28April 2016
December 2015
April 2016
Alcohol&Pregnancy
29
By Shanon A. Forseter, MD, OB-GYN
I
f you are pregnant and take a drink - a glass
of wine, a beer or a cocktail - your unborn
child takes the same drink. Whatever you eat
or drink while pregnant goes directly through
your bloodstream into the placenta.
Some experts say moderate drinking during pregnancy is okay, but there are others who believe taking
even one drink is like playing Russian roulette with
your baby’s health.
If you’re having a drink your baby is too.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a pattern of mental
and physical defects which develops in some unborn
babies when the mother drinks “too much” alcohol
during pregnancy. The problem is nobody is certain
just how much “too much” is.
A baby born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome can have
serious handicaps and therefore could require a lifetime of special care. There is even some research
that indicates that women who plan to get pregnant
should stop drinking before they even conceive.
Permanent Effects
These effects are not temporary; they can cause a
lifetime of physical and emotional pain -not to mention expense. It is a large price to pay for a few drinks
during pregnancy.
If you are pregnant, don’t take a chance with your
baby’s future; stop drinking immediately.
If you are pregnant and drinking, your unborn child
is not the only one at risk. Research shows that women who drink face more health problems than men
who drink the same amount.
Potential Problems
For those who might think drinking during pregnancy
is no big deal, here is a list of the potential problems
their newborns could be facing as a result, according
to Missouri Department of Mental Health, Division
of Alcohol and Drug Abuse:
• Small body size and weight
• Slower than normal development and failure to
“catch up.”
• Deformed ribs and sternum
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Curved spine and hip dislocations
Bent, fused, webbed, or missing fingers or toes
Limited movement of joints
Small head
Facial abnormalities
Small eye openings
Skin webbing between eyes and base of nose
Drooping eyelids
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Nearsightedness
Failure of eyes to move in same direction
Short upturned nose
Sunken nasal bridge
Flat or absent groove between nose and upper lip
Thin upper lip
Opening in roof of mouth
Small jaw
Low-set or poorly formed ears
Organ deformities
Heart defects or heart murmurs
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Genital malformations
Kidney and urinary defects
Central nervous system handicaps
Small brain
Faulty arrangement of brain cells and connective
tissue
Mental retardation - occasionally severe
Learning disabilities
Short attention span
Irritability in infancy
Hyperactivity in childhood
Poor body, hand, and finger coordination
Shanon A. Forseter, MD, OB-GYN
522 North New Ballas Rd, Suite 201
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
314-994-1241
www.shanonforseter.com
30April 2016
HOLDING
A GRUDGE?
By Christy Parks
We all have reasons to hold grudges. People can wrong us and situations can hurt
us. Then the anger sets in. A grudge is
nothing more than a refusal to forgive
and it seems avoidable in today’s society. We often hold on to grudges because
we feel we have the responsibility to see
that justice is done or that others know
how badly we were hurt. When we hold
a grudge then, are we setting ourselves up
as a judge and jury to determine that one
person’s wrong doings should be not be
forgiven?
God has a strong concern about grudges
and includes a specific command when
He gave the Law to the Israelites. Leviticus
19:18 says, “Do not seek revenge or bear a
grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I
am the Lord.” God reminds us that He is
the Lord, not us. We really don’t have the
authority to do that.
In our minds, we think that forgiveness
is to excuse someone’s sin or wrong doing and pretend the offense did not matter. Believe it or not, neither one is true!
Forgiveness is not about the other person.
Forgiveness is God’s gift to us to release
us from the control of someone who
has hurt us. When we hold a grudge, we
give someone power over our emotions
and give them control over us. So when
we forgive, it puts our relationship with
God back in alignment. Forgiveness is the
choice to trust God rather than ourselves
with the outcome of the offense.
James 1:20 says, “The anger of man does
not produce the righteousness of God.”
Another word, God does not need our
anger but needs our cooperation to doing things His way and God’s way is always forgive as He has forgiven us.
Here are a few things you can do to get
started on the right path of forgiveness:
1. Acknowledge the problem.
Figure out what it is that’s causing you to
hold a grudge. You have to know what the
problem is in order to solve it.
2. Share your feelings.
A grudge can form when an issue isn’t fully confronted. Without being judgmental
about yourself or another, clarify your
feelings on the situation. Then, decide if
this is something you will work on in your
own heart.
3. Switch places.
To get a better understanding of the other
person, try putting yourself in their shoes.
The more you understand the other person and their behavior, the easier it is to
let go of a grudge.
4. Accept what is.
Choose to create your own healing, with
or without an apology.
6. Take the positive.
For every negative situation there is a positive. Look for it!
7. Let it go.
Letting go allows room for peace and happiness.
8. READ THE BIBLE ON FORGIVENESS!
SunRise O'Fallon Campus
7116 Twin Chimneys Blvd. , O'Fallon MO 63368
(636) 978-2727
††††††
SunRise Wright City Campus
70 Bell Rd. , Wright City MO 63390
(636) 745-3271
www.sunrisefamily.org
April 2016
31

or Something Else? - St. Louis Health and Wellness Magazine

Transcription

Similar documents

Check Up From The Neck Up

I`m helping to end MS by participating in the 2016 Jayman BUILT MS

Designed for Duneland

The Board of Directors of Qatar Fuel (WOQOD) is pleased to invite

The Best of Buckhead Available in your Pocket

5 `S` Training Program at ABV-IIITM, Gwalior on 21.07.2016

media information 2016

2016 MW Alliance Raffle - Manitowish Waters Alliance LTD

HERE - Perfect Shots Photography

Annonce S1