healthy valley issue 71 2014 rgv
DESCRIPTION
DRISCOLL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL: CANCER AND BLOOD DISORDERS CENTERTRANSCRIPT
healthy valley®
RGV
SCAN THIS QR CODE TO VIEWONLINE MAGAZINE THE NEW NORMAL What Happens After Cancer Treatment
Dealing With EARWAX
HEART DISEASEAn Epidemic That Is
Preventable And Reversible
DRISCOLLChildren’s Hospital
YOUR PAIN STOPS HERE
Cancer and Blood Disorders Center
ISSUE 71
[email protected] | 1430 South DIxie Hwy, suite 315 | Coral Gables, FL 33146 | PH 305-395-4554 www.HealthyMagazine.com
WH
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’SINSIDEhv
HEALTHY BODY, MIND & SOUL
FITNES & BEAUTY
HEALTHY KIDS
8. 5 WAYS TO BULLY-PROOF YOUR KID10. DRISCOLL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL: CANCER AND BLOOD DISORDERS CENTER12. DEALING WITH EARWAX
32. COLBIE CAILLAT DOESN’T TRY34. FLOSS OR DIE36. INSOMNIA AND INTEGRATED ORIENTAL MEDICINE
ISSUE 71
14. THE NBA GETS ONE RIGHT16. THE NEW NORMAL: WHAT HAPPENS AFTER CANCER TREATMENT23. HEART DISEASE: AN EPIDEMIC THAT IS PREVENTABLE AND REVERSIBLE24. YOUR PAIN STOPS HERE26. WHAT IS IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME?
PublisherMauricio Portillo
Editor in ChiefClaudia Portillo Del Valle
Marketing DirectorArnaldo Del Valle
Copy EditorLora Incardona
Website DirectorHealthy Media
Graphic DesignHealthy Media
PhotographyHMG
Contributing WritersGuillermo Lazo MDS Murthy Badiga, MD, FACGRoselind H Bardisa, DOMegan Clunan, MA, LMHC, LPCConsuelo Camarillo De G., Lic. Ac. Robert S. Tan, MD, MBACharlotte LibovMaria Luisa SalcinesLora incardonaRubel Shelly
Social Media DirectorFaride Del Valle
This is 40.
Wow, so this is what it feels like to turn 40. As I begin a new decade this month, it feels like I’m also starting a new chapter. Like New Year’s Eve, I see a new opportunity for me to refresh my life and take a good look at the possibilities that lie before me.
They say that 40 is the new 30. To be honest, right now it feels like 40, but I don’t mind. I am a lot more mature and focused than I was at 30, which I appreciate. Although this birthday does feel different, I would not change it for anything in the world. With confidence, I stand as a 40-year-old woman, wife, mother and professional with the wisdom and experience that I did not have at 30 and so many achievements to be proud of.
When a child is diagnosed with cancer or a blood disorder, there is so much that goes through a parent’s mind about cures, and treatment and care. Driscoll Children’s Hospital Cancer and Blood Disorders Center has helped to ease such worries by establishing two clinics in the Valley. It is so exciting that Valley children in need have access to the highest quality care and physicians in 30 different pediatric subspecialties within the Driscoll Children’s Hospital family of services.
Regardless of my leaping into a new decade of life, I can tell you that there is nothing better than life, no matter what your age. Enjoy every bit of it and embrace the wisdoms that years experience and learning have taught you. Live every day like you’re building the best tomorrow possible.
Enjoy life. Be healthy.
healthy magazine is a free monthly publication. All contents are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. The material in this magazine is intended to be of general informational use and is not intended to constitute medical advice, probable diagnosis, or recommended treatments. healthy magazine and its contributors accept no responsibility for inaccuracies, and the advertiser is solely responsible for ad content and holds publisher harmless from any error. Printed in Mexico
[email protected] South DIxie Hwy, suite 315Coral Gables, Fl 33146PH 305-395-4554
www.HealthyMagazine.com
Editor in ChiefClaudia Portillo
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8. 5 WAYS TO BULLY-PROOF YOUR KID
10. DRISCOLL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL CANCER AND BLOOD DISORDERS CENTER
12. DEALING WITH EARWAX
Kids
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8 HEALTHY VALLEY
HV HEALTHY kids
Did you know that 25% of public schools report that bullying among kids occurs on a daily or weekly basis? And that 1 in 5 high school students report being bullied in the past year?
The good news is that, because bullying has made national head-lines, schools and communities (and even celebrities) are taking a strong anti-bullying stance.
You can do your part at home, too. Here are five smart strategies to keep kids from becoming targets — and stop bullying that has already started:
1. Talk about it. Talk about bullying with your kids and have other family members share their experiences. If one of your kids opens up about being bullied, praise him or her for being brave enough to discuss it and offer unconditional support. Consult with the school to learn its policies and find out how staff and teachers can address the situation.
2. Remove the bait. If it’s lunch money or gadgets that the school bully is after, you can help neutralize the situation by encourag-ing your child to pack a lunch or go to school gadget-free.
3. Buddy up for safety. Two or more friends standing at their lock-ers are less likely to be picked on than a child who is all alone. Remind your child to use the buddy system when on the school bus, in the bathroom or wherever bullies may lurk.
4. Keep calm and carry on. If a bully strikes, a kid’s best defense may be to remain calm, ignore hurtful remarks, tell the bully to stop and simply walk away. Bullies thrive on hurting others. A child who isn’t easily ruffled has a better chance of staying off a bully’s radar.
5. Don’t try to fight the battle yourself. Sometimes talking to a bully’s parents can be constructive, but it’s generally best to do so in a setting where a school official, such as a counselor, can mediate.
to Bully-Proof Your Kid
Ways5
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What do you do and where do you go when your child is diagnosed with cancer or a blood disorder? In the past, an out-of-town road trip to the specialist was the answer. Today, that is no longer the case, thanks to Driscoll Children’s Hospital Cancer and Blood Disor-ders Center, which has locations in Browns-ville and McAllen.
“We offer inpatient and outpatient consulta-tions, as well as chemotherapy administra-tion, blood product transfusions, factor ad-ministration, iron infusions and bone marrow aspirations. We also perform biopsies in the clinic —with sedation, when needed— for diagnosis or disease evaluation, and lumbar punctures performed in clinic with sedation for ongoing treatment. We also offer urgent care for patients with bleeding disorders,” said Cris Johnson, MD, Medical Director of Driscoll Children’s Hospital Cancer and Blood Disorder Center.
One of the medical team’s biggest strengths is that it truly works together as a system for its young patients. Each of the team’s three physicians travels to the Rio Grande Valley clinics to provide services and one nurse practitioner stays in the Valley to serve the Brownsville and McAllen locations.
“Additionally, we have a dedicated Valley so-cial worker for our hematology/oncology pa-tients and a child-life specialist who cares for subspecialty patients in the RGV clinics,” said Dr. Johnson.
DRISCOLLCHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBy Lora Incardona
The Center also has a permanent hematology/oncology staff that includes administrative personnel and two full-time che-motherapy-certified oncology nurses, including one nation-ally certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse.
The advantages to having Driscoll Children’s Hospital loca-tions in the Valley are numerous. Patients who are cared for through Driscoll’s hematology/oncology clinics in the Rio Grande Valley have access to the highest quality care for their medical conditions. Patients in the Valley also have access to the most cutting-edge investigational agents, if they are needed, to treat their medical conditions. Physicians in 30 dif-ferent pediatric subspecialties within the Driscoll Children’s Hospital family of services also are available to patients. Dr. Johnson is of the philosophy that patients and parents are critical to the healing pro-cess and knows that an open, honest and caring relationship between doc-tor and patient is imperative to the delivery of the best possible care. Driscoll’s physicians in the Valley are attentive to each patient’s needs and are careful with their own communication when talking to patients and their parents, par-ticularly when talking about treat-ment and prognosis.
“It is imperative they understand their medical conditions in order to lead healthy lives and that information must be delivered with great care,” Dr. Johnson said.
A child being diagnosed with cancer is everyone’s worst fear, but the top priorities are diagnosis and initiation of treatment, which is why doc-tors are available to see patients quickly.
“If your child’s physician is concerned that there is a serious medical condition, we are available to speak and, in urgent cases, can arrange to see them within 24 hours,” Dr. Johnson said. If you believe your child is in need of an on-cologist, one of the most important actions you can take is to make sure your child gets referred to a pediatric cancer center. The only pediatric cancer cen-ter in the Rio Grande Valley is Driscoll Children’s Hospital Can-cer and Blood Disorder Center. “Prevention of adult cancers is well-described: monthly breast exams, high-fiber diet, avoidance of tobacco and alcohol, etc. However, there are no known triggers for pediatric cancers; they just happen,” Dr. Johnson said. “So if it happens to you or
some-one you
know, realize that it’s nothing they or their parents did or didn’t do. It isn’t contagious, so offer help, if you are able to, and compassion and prayers al-
ways,” Dr. Johnson.
Driscoll’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders provides a variety
of social and educational opportuni-ties for its patients. Programs such as
summer camps are beneficial because the plight of serious medical conditions can leave
patients feeling isolated and out of touch with their friends and classmates. When
patients attend camp, they have the op-portunity to meet other children who have experiences similar to theirs and to form supportive peer networks. Camps also give patients the opportunity to see their familiar medical personnel in a different setting.
In addition to summer camps, Driscoll Chil-dren’s Hospital’s oncology patients can par-
ticipate each summer in the Chemo Kids Fish Off, which gives the kids a day away from treatment and
puts them out on the water catching fish. There also are par-ties throughout the year for all sorts of occasions.
“We’re here for the children and their families,” Dr. Johnson said. “Our mission is to serve the children of South Texas, and we’re proud of that mission.”
Driscoll’s Center for Cancer and Blood
Disorders provides a variety of social and educational
opportunities for its patients.
12 HEALTHY VALLEY
HM HEALTHY kids
Cotton swabs are standard equipment in many family bathrooms. They’re handy implements for a variety of grooming needs but often are used to remove earwax—a common but potentially hazardous practice.
While some people have more earwax than others, in general the ear makes only as much wax as it needs. In some rare cases, children’s ears do make excess earwax. If it interferes with hearing or causes pain or discomfort, it needs to be removed by a doctor. Only a medical professional can determine whether earwax should be removed and rule out other issues that could be causing symptoms.
Parents—and children—should not attempt to remove earwax at home, even with remedies that promise to be safe and effective. Doing so risks damage to the ear canal and, possibly, a child’s hearing.
WHY DO EARS MAKE WAX?Earwax is made in the outer ear canal, the area between the fleshy part of the ear on the outside of the head and the middle ear. The medical term for earwax is cerumen.
Cerumen has many important functions. It helps protect the eardrum and ear canal by providing a waterproof lining for the ear canal, helping to keep it dry and preventing germs from causing infection. It also traps dirt, dust and other particles, keeping them from injuring or irritating the eardrum.
After the wax is produced, it slowly makes its way through the outer ear canal to the opening of the ear. Then it either falls out or comes out during bathing. In most cases, nothing needs to be done to remove earwax from ears; regular bathing is typically enough to keep it at healthy levels.
HOME TREATMENTIf your child complains of ear discomfort and you see earwax
in the ear, it’s okay to wipe the outside of the ear with a washcloth. It’s important to not use a cotton swab, a
finger or anything else to poke inside the ear because of the risk of damaging the delicate ear canal and eardrum or packing the wax in even further, which could cause infection.
If your child is having any ear pain, discomfort, hearing problems or an uncomfortable blocked feeling in the
ears, talk with your doctor. (In infants and toddlers, tugging at the ears can be a sign of an ear issue.) Many
over-the-counter treatments are sold for earwax removal but don’t use them without consulting a doctor.
Ear candling has gained a lot of attention as a home remedy for earwax removal (and overall well-being) but doctors strongly advise against it because it hasn’t been proved to be safe or effective. Trying this at home means a high risk of burning the ear canal and possibly perforating or punching a hole in the eardrum, which can permanently damage hearing. Only a trained practitioner should perform the procedure.
EARWAX REMOVALSometimes doctors will remove earwax if it’s causing pain and discomfort or interfering with hearing, or to get a better view of the eardrum to check for problems. Earwax removal usually is done in the doctor’s office. There may be a little discomfort but it isn’t painful, though some children may be uncomfortable with the sensation of someone handling their ears. In rare cases, when a child can’t sit still or cooperate with the doctor, the procedure is done in an operating room with the child given general anesthesia.
Doctors use a variety of different tools to remove earwax including a tiny device with a curve at the end (called a curette), graspers and suction, as well as an otoscope (a handheld tool with a light, used in regular checkups to see far into the ear canal). Removal takes just a few minutes and usually doesn’t require any further treatment. If there’s a sign of infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic eardrops but further home treatment usually isn’t needed after most removals.
If you have any concerns about your child’s ears or hearing, consult your doctor.
Reviewed by: Patrick Barth, MD
Dealing With
Earwax
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IDEA HIGH SCHOOLS RANK IN TOP 1%
IN THE NATION! GOLD2014
HIGH SCHOOLSBEST
www.ideapublicschools.org
14 HEALTHY VALLEY
HV
The NBAGets One Right
In June of this year, basketball enthusiasts witnessed the annual NBA draft of talent into the big leagues—and huge money—of professional basketball. One of the more promising names that had figured in draft-day speculation was Isaiah Austin.
Austin had been a tough-luck kid who was on the brink of seeing a dream come true. He had lost an eye because of a freak accident in a middle school basketball game but he stayed with the game. As he grew to his 7-foot-1 frame, he became a presence to reckon with whenever he was on the court.
Baylor University won the recruiting war for Austin, and last year, in only his sophomore season, he and his team made it to the NCAA’s Sweet Sixteen. Austin, his family and his coaches knew that the time was right for him to declare for the NBA draft. He would be a high draft pick in the much-trumpeted event. But it was not to be.
During the pre-draft physical exams required of candidates, Austin was found to have a rare genetic disorder called Marfan syndrome. The exam discovered an enlarged aorta. Further testing revealed the disease of his body’s connective tissue that sometimes affects the heart’s major vessels. One solid blow to his chest could result in near-immediate death. There would be no more competitive basketball games for Isaiah Austin.
And what a mature reaction Austin had to the news! “If this door is closed to me, God will open another.” That was his comment in a TV interview I saw. Sitting on a couch beside his mother, he declared that “this would be the beginning of something good God will do in his life.”
That mother likely did some things very right in her son’s life to help him have that sort of faith. Perhaps it was nurtured by a Sunday school teacher, a pastor, a Baylor professor or coach. Whoever the contributors to his faith, Austin has confessed his faith in a Good God whose holy purposes for human life are far greater than NBA fame and fortune. Now there’s a role model for our kids!
But back now to the NBA. On the day Austin learned his diagnosis, the New York Times quoted him as saying, “The draft is four days away and I had a dream that my name was going to be called.” In what has been universally hailed as a “classy move” by the league’s new commissioner, Austin was permitted to have his special moment on draft day.
Commissioner Adam Silver phoned, invited Austin to attend the draft and arranged a ceremonial draft for him between the 15th and 16th picks. The huge young man rose from his seat, kissed his family members, and walked onto the stage at Barclays Center to a standing ovation.
For all the bad press it sometimes gets, the NBA got this one right.
by Rubel Shelly
HEALTHY souL
14. THE NBA GETS ONE RIGHT
16. THE NEW NORMAL: WHAT HAPPENS AFTER CANCER TREATMENT
23. HEART DISEASE: AN EPIDEMIC THAT IS PREVENTABLE AND REVERSIBLE
24. YOUR PAIN STOPS HERE
26. WHAT IS IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME?
BodyMind &Soul
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16 HEALTHY VALLEY
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McALLEN
For more information about cancer prevention, please visit www.TexasOncology.com or call 1-888-864-I CAN (4226).
Billie Marek is a medical oncologist at Texas Oncology–McAllen, 1901 South Second Street in McAllen, Texas.By Dr. Billie Marek, Texas Oncology–McAllen
>
HEALTHY bodY
Congratulations! You have fought cancer and are anxious to return to normal. You are ready to go back to work, spend time with friends and family, maybe even hit the gym—at least that’s what your brain is saying, but your body feels exhausted. Or perhaps your body is strong, but your emotions are still raw, making it difficult to enjoy your health.
Life after cancer requires adjusting to a “new normal” for all patients and just as there is a variety of physical and emotional challenges that may arise in the life of a cancer survivor, there are multiple ways to address them. Fortunately, not all side effects are permanent and they can be overcome. We recommend that all of our patients speak with their oncologist about any issues or concerns they experience and that we work through them together.
Fatigue is the most common physical challenge for patients and there are ways to reduce its impact. We recommend flexibility when scheduling activities and rest to suit different energy levels at different times.
Lymphedema, swelling that occurs when lymph nodes in the arms, legs, or other areas of the body are affected by treatment, is very common for breast cancer survivors. You can help prevent lymphedema by telling your doctor about swelling or signs of infection; keeping your arms and legs free of cuts, insect bites and sunburn; and eating a well-balanced, protein-rich diet.
Cognitive issues resulting from chemotherapy, commonly known as “chemo brain,” may linger after treatment. Those experiencing learning or memory problems should talk to their oncologist and care
THE NEW NORMAL: What Happens After Cancer Treatment
team about ways to improve cognitive function and work around problematic points. Many people find that writing things down, setting up reminders and talking themselves through tasks helps them alleviate symptoms.
Cancer survivors may also experience emotional side effects after treatment. Approximately one in four cancer patients experience depression at some point, and for many, that point is after treatment. No matter when it occurs, it is extremely important to talk to your doctor immediately if you have any signs of depression.
Many cancer survivors struggle with adjusting to their new body and appearance, especially those who have experienced dramatic changes. Good communication with your partner, physical activity and healthy eating all help boost self-esteem and acceptance of the changes.
Lastly, many cancer survivors find it difficult to adjust to a “new normal” in relationships with friends, coworkers or family members. Support groups, therapy or even a simple one-on-one chat can help overcome communication barriers. Your oncology care team can provide suggestions for starting that conversation.
You may notice many of these suggestions involve talking to your doctor. The special relationship between a doctor and a patient doesn’t end with treatment. Life after cancer doesn’t have to be controlled by the side effects of treatment, and oncologists and their teams can help. Whether the challenges after cancer are physical or emotional, there are effective ways to adjust to a new normal. Visit www.TexasOncology.com to learn more.
Texas Oncology offers leading-edge radiation therapy that
is quicker, safer and more precise than ever before. We
have an arsenal of technologies ready to use for almost
every type of cancer. You can get the treatment that’s
right for you, right in your neighborhood.
FIGHT CANCERwith leading-edge technology in my community.
Curtis Daniels, Texas Oncology Patient
TEXAS ONCOLOGY–MCALLEN1901 S. 2nd StreetMcAllen, TX 78503 • 956-687-5150
1-888-864-4226 • www.TexasOncology.com
Texas Oncology delivers high-quality cancer care with leading-edge technology and advanced treatment options to help patients achieve “More breakthroughs. More victories.” in their fights against cancer. Texas Oncology, a pioneer in community-based cancer care, is an inde-pendent oncology practice with sites of service throughout Texas and southeastern New Mexico. Texas Oncology patients have the oppor-tunity to take part in some of the most promising clinical trials in the nation for a broad range of cancers. In fact, Texas Oncology has played an integral role in gaining Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for 29 of the latest cancer therapies.
Dr. Marek is board-certified and specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He currently serves as a director of Texas Oncology and is the medical director for Texas Oncology-McAllen. He has served the Rio Grande Valley for the past 22 years as a medical oncologist and hematologist, has been recognized as a “Super Doctor” in oncology for five years in a row, and was recognized as Doctor of The Year for Rio Grande Regional. Dr. Marek received his medical degree from The University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio. He completed his fellowship at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Billie J. Marek, MD, FACPMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
“I can be part of your team… and together we can fight the battle.”Dr. Restrepo specializes in, medical oncology and hematology. He completed his fellowship at the University of Miami. He also serves on the Breast Cancer Committee of US Oncology and has completed a fellowship in breast cancer treatment. Through the Life Beyond Cancer Fundation he established the Texas Oncology–McAllen Breast Cancer Ride/Walk fundraiser to raise funds for Rio Grande Valley cancer patients. To date approximately $30,000 has been
donated to cancer patients in the Rio Grande Valley.
Alvaro Restrepo, MDMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
Dr. Ratnam has been with Texas Oncology-McAllen for 13 years, which he joined after completing his fellowship at the renowned National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health. He has co-authored several research publications and is passionate about cutting-edge oncology care. He currently serves on the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee of US Oncology and chairman of the Credentials Committee for South Texas Health System.
Suresh Ratnam, MD, FACPMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
McAllen 1901 South 2nd Street McAllen, Texas 78503 PH: 956.687.5150 FAX: 956.687.9546www.TexasOncology.com
McALLEN
Dr. Wahid was fellowship-trained in medical oncology and hematology at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York. He has been recognized as Physician of the Year at Rio Grande State Center in Harlingen where he has served as senior attending
physician for the past 13 years.
Nurul Wahid, MDMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
Dr. Litam was fellowship-trained at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. He is well known in the community and was in private practice for 27 years before
joining Texas Oncology. He has special interest in treating solid tumors.
Joseph Litam, MDMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
Dr. Shekar specializes in medical oncology and hematology. She completed her fellowship at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland and trained at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Nirupama Shekar, MDMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
Dr. West is a board-certified radiation oncologist. He was a physicist prior to becoming a physician.
Benjamin West, MDRadiation Oncolog y
Dr. Lazo specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He completed his fellowship at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. He is a recipient of several awards including the American Society of Clinical Oncology Merit Award and is the author of several peer-reviewed medical publications as well as book chapters. He received the highest honors on the professional examination for his medical doctorate degree.
Guillermo Lazo, MDMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
Dr. Salinas is a board-certified radiation oncologist. He completed his residency training at Memorial Sloan–Kettering Cancer Center in New York followed by his fellowship at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Rogelio Salinas, MDRadiation Oncolog y
“Cancer prevention is a high priority. My aim is to identify individuals who may be at high risk for cancer and work with them to develop a plan to reduce that risk.”
Debbie Gillett is a nurse practitioner.
Debbie Gillett , R .N., N.P.Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Nabeel Sarhill is board-certified in hematology, medical oncology, and internal medicine. He earned his medical doctorate from the University of Tishreen Medical School in Lattakia, Syria, and completed his residency in internal medicine at Case Wester Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. His fellowship in hematology was completed at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, Texas, and his clinical research fellowship in medicine and symptoms management at The Harry R. Horvitz Center for Palliative Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Nabeel Sarhill is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Society of Hematology, Syrian Medical Association, Syrian Ministry of Health, American Board of Hematology, American Board of Medical Oncology, and
the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Nabeel SarhillMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
Harlingen 2121 Pease Street, Suite 101 Harlingen, Texas 78550 PH: 956.425.8845 FAX: 956.364.6793
Dr. Araneda specializes in medical oncology and is board-certified in internal medicine and medical oncology. He received his medical degree from San Carlos University in Guatemala and completed a medical oncology fellowship at East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, as well as a fellowship in bone marrow transplantation at the University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida. He has special interests in breast cancer, gastrointestinal malignancies, hematologic malignancies, and molecular targeted therapy.
Marco A . Araneda, MDMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
HARLINGEN
Dr. West is a board-certified radiation oncologist. He was a physicist prior to becoming a physician.
Benjamin West, MDRadiation Oncolog y
4770 N. Expressway 83, Suite 305A Brownsville, TX 78526 PH: 956-350-3975 FAX: 956-350-3425
2150 N. Expressway 83 Brownsville, TX 78521 PH: 956-548-0810 FAX: 956-548-2239
Dr. Gonzalez specializes in radiation oncology and internal medicine. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine as well as the American Board of Radiology, and is a member of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO). He completed his fellowship in radiation oncology at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, in Buffalo, New York, and also completed a second residency in radiation oncology at Jackson Memorial Hospital/Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, in Miami, Florida. Aside from his medical practice, Dr. Gonzalez is a Christian lay minister and a student of ancient Greek.
Carlos Gonzalez-Angulo, MDRadiation Oncolog y
Balesh Sharma, MD specializes in internal medicine, medical oncology and hematology. He is board certified by in medical oncology. Dr. Sharma received an MD Delhi University in New Delhi, India, in 1990, where he also completed his residency in Anesthesia and Critical Care in 1991. He completed his medical internship at Lincoln Medical Center in New York in 1992-93. Dr. Sharma completed his residency in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in affiliation with Yale University School of Medicine, Connecticut. In 1998, he completed a fellowship in hematology and oncology from University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, and has been in private practice since then.
Balesh Sharma, MDMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
Dr. Boek is board-certified in internal medicine, medical oncology and hematology. Prior to him joining Texas Oncology, he conducted clinical research as part of the North Central Cancer Treatment group.
Marcelo Boek, MDMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
BROWNSVILLE
Mariza is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, and has a Masters degree in Nursing Administration. She has over 17 years experience in nursing and has worked in healthcare areas such as medical-surgical, post-partum, hospice, and home health. She has extensive experience in providing care for the adult and geriatric population of the
Rio Grande Valley.
Mariza D. Oliver MSN, APRN, FNP- CAdvanced Practice Provider
Dr. Doctor specializes in general adult and pediatric urology; urologic oncology; male dysfunction; urinary incontinence and no scalpel vasectomy. Dr. Shamoon Doctor earned his medical degree from Osmania Medical College in Hyderabad, India in 1960. Following graduation, he specialized in general surgery and worked as a general surgeon in Zambia, Africa for five years. He then returned to Canada and specialized in urology. He has practiced urology in Canada and the United States sincce 1974, having practiced in Del Rio, Texas for over 30 years.
Shamoon Doctor, MDUrolog y
TEXAS UROLOGYSPECIALIST
WESLACO
Dr. Farray is board-certified in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine. He received his medical degree in 1998 from the Universidad Nacional Pedro Henriquez Urena in the Dominican Republic and completed his residency in internal medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, Ohio. He completed his fellowship in medical oncology and hematology in 2006 at Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center/Loyola University Chicago. Dr. Farray ranked first in his medical school class. He is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and American College of Physicians.
Daniel Farray, MDMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
Weslaco 1330 East 6th Street, Suite 204 Weslaco, Texas 78596 PH: 956.969.0021 FAX: 956.968.9744
Dr. Ghaddar specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in hematology and medical oncology. He received his medical degree from the American University of Beirut in Beirut, Lebanon. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at the Good Samaritan Hospital/John Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. He completed his fellowship in hematology/oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston,
TX. He has been in practice with Texas Oncology since 1995.
Habib Ghaddar, MD, FACPMedical Oncolog y/Hematolog y
23HEALTHY VALLEY
Heart disease is our nation’s number one killer, accounting for 1 out of every 4 deaths each year! The primary cause of heart attacks and strokes is the gradual clogging, hardening and damage done to the inside walls of our blood vessels.
Heart attacks major warning signs and symptoms may include:
• Chest pain or discomfort;
• Upper body pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw or upper stomach;
• Shortness of breath;
• Nausea, lightheadedness or cold sweats.
Here are 10 strategies to help you protect your heart:
1. Eat a healthy wholefood diet - Eat at least 8 to 10 servings of colorful fruits and vegetables a day, which contain important disease fighting micronutrients. Also eat lots of beans and legumes, raw nuts, seeds, avocados, whole grains and some lean meats. Reduce or avoid processed foods. These usually contain high amounts of sugar, salt, harmful trans-fats and artificial chemicals.
2. Avoid too much sugar - which can raise your blood pressure and damage your arteries. Maintain a fasting blood sugar between 70 – 85 mg/dl.
3. Get Moving - Avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Regular physical activity is a must for having a healthy heart. Exercise helps you maintain normal weight. Excess weight is a risk factor for heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
4. Don’t smoke or use tobacco - Smoking or using tobacco is one of the most significant risk factors for developing heart disease.
5. Take time to relax - We live in a fast-paced hectic world that’s often stressful. Take some time daily to meditate. Sit quietly for 10-15 minutes, take slow, deep breaths and think peaceful thoughts.
6. Take care of your teeth - People with periodontal disease are more likely to have heart disease and suffer a heart attack than those with healthy gums. Floss daily!
7. Check your cholesterol - Your total cholesterol should be under 200 and your LDL should be ideally under 80. But more important, your ratio of HDL to total cholesterol should be more than 24%. Your ratio of triglycerides to HDL should be below 2.
8. Know your blood pressure - Optimal blood pressure is less than 120/80 millimeters of mercury.
9. Limit alcohol - In addition to raising blood pressure, too much alcohol can add unneeded calories to your diet. If you drink alcoholic beverages, have only a moderate amount: one drink a day for women, two drinks a day for men.
10. Get regular health screenings - Regular screening can tell you what your risks are and if you need to take action.
Make sure to consult your healthcare professional with any questions concerning your heart health or when beginning any exercise regimen.
If you think that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, you should call 911 immediately.
HEART DISEASE
An Epidemic That Is
Preventable and ReversibleBy Virgilio Sanchez Jr, MD
You can prevent and even reverse heart disease by following a heart-
healthy lifestyle.
24 HEALTHY VALLEY
HV
SHV HEALTHY bodY
YOUR PAIN
topsHere
“I have a gift for turning my patients’ pain into comfort.”
Chronic PainCancer PainHeadachesMotor Vehicle InjuryWork Related InjurySpinal Cord Injury
HV
MBBS from Rajshahi Medical College in Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Residency training at Boston University and Harvard Medical School
General surgery training at Case Western University in Cleveland, Ohio
Served as Assistant Professor of Anesthesia at Boston City Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts
Attending Staff Physician at St. Paul Medical Center in Dallas
Medical Director and Chief of Anesthesia at Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco, Texas
Professional affiliations: Diplomat of the American Academy of Pain Management
Board certified with American Academy of Disability Evaluating Physicians.
Dr. Tajul “TIM” Chowdhury
Whether chronic or acute, nobody enjoys pain. With acute pain, at least the sufferer can have a reasonable expectation that the pain will soon be over. For those who suffer chronic pain, the hope of living pain-free is often lost. In both cases, though, a reduction in pain is possible through proper interventional pain management.
Interventional pain management is a medical specialization that is important to keep in mind when a person has been in constant pain. Chronic pain is defined as a constant pain that has persisted for over three months. It can be caused by failed surgeries, osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes, cancer, herniated discs, severe spasticity, brain injury, and work related and auto accidents. “As an interventional pain management specialist, my job is to restore hope for the patient who is suffering from chronic pain, when there is no hope left. My team and I provide patients with less conservative options to manage their pain. It is unrealistic for some to live a pain-free life, but managing chronic pain is possible through the proper treatments,” says Dr. Chowdhury, MD and Interventional Pain Specialist at Center for Pain Management in Edinburg.
Dr. Chowdhury decided to turn his focus to interventional pain management while training in regional anesthesia in OB rotation. He discovered that he possessed an extraordinary gift of performing nerve block for pain and anesthesia and became well-respected by his peers for his abilities to provide such relief for mothers during childbirth. Dr. Chowdhury understood that the pain methods he provided patients during labor played a major role in interventional pain management. That is when he extended his interest to interventional pain and slowly dedicated himself to full-time pain management.
Interventional pain specialists bridge the gap between conservative treatments and major surgery. They provide help to the patients who did not respond well to conservative therapy and want to, by all means, avoid any major surgery. Interventional pain specialists also provide hope to the patient who did not respond well to a major surgery and still suffers from chronic pain.
With 15 years dedicated to pain management, Dr. Tajul Chowdhury understands pain and the limitations it imposes on those who suffer and their loved ones. It’s not that those in pain haven’t sought relief; it’s that they haven’t experienced the relief from the efforts of their healthcare provider. At Center for Pain Management, Dr. Chowdhury, and his team truly understand pain and offer a myriad of pain management options to their patients.
No one should have to endure chronic pain. If chronic pain is not treated, the patient could develop or aggravate diabetes, hypertension, depression, weight gain, insomnia, low immunity and loss of active daily living. Chronic pain can also threaten good quality of life.
If you or someone you love is experiencing chronic or acute pain, consider making an appointment, even without a referral, by contacting Center for Pain Management.
P. (956) 631-90412637 Cornerstone Blvd. Edinburg, Texas 78539
www.cfpm.net
HEALTHY bodY
“Interventional Pain Specialist”
26 HEALTHY VALLEY
HV HEALTHY bodY
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common disorder of the large intestine (colon) that causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating/gas, diarrhea and/or constipation. Despite these annoying symptoms, IBS does not cause any damage to the intestines and does not lead to more serious conditions like ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease or colon cancer. Most people with IBS see their symptoms improve as they make lifestyle changes and learn to control their diet and stress. Only a small number will have disabling symptoms.
What isIRRITABLE BOWEL
Syndrome?
HEALTHY VALLEY
S Murthy Badiga, MD, FACGRenaissance Gastroenterology
5423 S. McColl, Edinburg TX 78539 (956)-362-3636902 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco TX 78596 (956)-973-2446
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?Symptoms vary from person to person and can mimic those of other diseases. The most common symptoms are abdominal pain or cramping, bloating, flatulence, diarrhea and/or constipation, and mucus in the stool. Because the symptoms of IBS can also occur with more serious disorders of the gut, it is best to discuss the symptoms with a doctor.
WHAT CAUSES IBS?It is not known what causes IBS. It is, however, speculated to be related to problems with the way signals are sent between the brain and the digestive tract; unusually high sensitivity of the intestines to foods, gas and distention; changes in gut motility and intensity of intestinal contraction; and disturbed balance of bacteria in the intestines.
DOES DIET OR STRESS AFFECT IBS SYMPTOMS?In many, the symptoms are brought on or made worse by eating certain foods. Chocolate, milk and alcohol may cause constipation or diarrhea in some, while carbonated beverages and certain fruits and vegetables may result in bloating and abdominal discomfort in others. Lactose intolerance can mimic IBS symptoms, as can consuming too much fiber, both of which can cause bloating and discomfort.
Stress often aggravates IBS symptoms. It is well established that generalized anxiety disorder is very common among IBS sufferers and depression to a smaller extent. There is proof that stress management can help prevent or reduce IBS symptoms. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or visualization, can help. Regular exercise, avoidance of alcohol and caffeine, and getting enough sleep all help manage IBS symptoms.
DO HORMONES, MEDICATIONS AND FAMILY HISTORY INFLUENCE IBS?Hormonal changes can impact IBS symptoms, which tend to worsen during menstruation, for example. Some medications, such as antibiotics, may bring about symptoms as well by changing the balance of gut bacteria. IBS has been observed to occur more frequently in those with a family history of IBS. IS INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD) THE SAME AS IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS)?Fortunately, no. IBD comprises two predominant inflammatory conditions of the intestines—ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease—and is quite distinct from IBS. In IBS, there is no damage to the gut wall and there is no inflammation of the lining. IBD,
on the other hand, is a serious condition that can have many complications including colon cancer. IBS, while quite annoying, is a benign disorder that does not result in serious complications or death.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE IBS?There is no test for IBS that can confirm the diagnosis. The condition is diagnosed by signs and symptoms and, when necessary, by excluding more serious disorders. The set of criteria used to diagnose IBS is found in the Rome III Criteria publication.
For a diagnosis of IBS, the Rome III Criteria require at least three months of recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort associated with two or more of the following, with onset at least six months previous:
• Improvement with defecation • Onset associated with a change in frequency of stool • Onset associated with a change in form of stool
CAN IBS BE TREATED? No single treatment for IBS works best for everyone. The patient and doctor need to work together to identify triggers and then it’s up to the patient to avoid them. Some common recommendations include the following:
• Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol;• Limit fatty food intake;• If diarrhea is predominant, limit dairy products, fruits and
artificial sweeteners;• If constipation is predominant, increase dietary fiber;• Avoid high gas foods like beans and raw fruits and vegetables
to help relieve bloating and gas;• Get regular exercise and good sleep.
Medications may be used along with dietary and lifestyle changes to manage the symptoms of IBS. Anticholinergics are used for cramping and are helpful in patients with bouts of diarrhea and spasms but can worsen constipation. Antidepressant medications, such as tricyclics (imipramine, amitriptyline), are used for those with diarrhea and abdominal pain, and selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine, for pain and constipation. There are medications specifically approved for IBS such as alosetron (Lotronex) for diarrhea-predominant IBS and lubiprestone (Amitiza) and linaclotide (Linzess) for constipation-predominant IBS.
32. COLBIE CAILLAT DOESN’T TRY
34. FLOSS OR DIE
36. INSOMNIA AND INTEGRATED ORIENTAL MEDICINE
Beauty
FITN
ESS
&hv
Though it may appear that summer is starting to wind
down, there are still a few key occasions to plan for
before you can pack up your bathing suit and toss the
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long gone, but the need to be pool or beach ready is still
desirable – and within reach.
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is a skin tightening and contouring treatment for the face,
neck, and body. Comparable to a 15-minute hot stone
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Instead of hoping that drug store creams or high-priced
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32 HEALTHY VALLEY
HV
Acoustic-folk singer, Colbie Marie “Coco” Caillat has been hitting the charts ever since her original song “Bubbly” was played over 14 million times on the social media site MySpace, which she gives credit to for skyrocketing her career to the top of the charts.
Even as a young child, Caillat’s parents recognized her remarkable singing voice, which she took advantage of to participate in musical theater. Surprisingly, with such talent and piano lessons, it wasn’t until she got her first acoustic guitar at age 19 that she began to write her own music. To learn to play, Caillat took lessons and wrote a song after her first lesson. Admittedly, she says, it wasn’t very good, but it was a start. Needless to say, her song writing improved and she built up a collection of her work. With a friend’s encouragement, she began sharing her music on the social media site MySpace. It was her original song “Bubbly” that finally got everybody listening and launched her music career to where it is today. “Bubbly” had over 14 million plays, making Caillat the number one unsigned artist on MySpace for four months.
Before all that, Caillat had taken piano lessons and had rolls in musicals. Even with the beautiful voice she had, it wasn’t until she was 11, when she was enthralled by Lauryn Hill’s piano
COLBIE CAILLAT
performance in Sister Act 2, that she was truly inspired to be a singer.
And it’s not just Hill’s music that moves Caillat. “I love all kinds of music and I’ve been influenced by all of it: classic rock like Fleetwood Mac and the Steve Miller Band, original soul like Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, Lauryn Hill, Bob Marley and reggae, John Mayer. Anything that makes you feel good,” she says. According to Caillat, great songs warm the heart, lift the soul and make the listener feel good, which are exactly what “Bubbly” does, which explains its MySpace success.
Songwriting provides an emotional release for Caillat. Some of her best songwriting is inspired from feelings that have been building up deep inside her. “Songwriting can be an emotional rollercoaster, and that makes it fun for me. It’s personal therapy,” she says. She has been known to write many songs over a short period of time as a release of her worries.
Twenty-fourteen has been another big year for Caillat. The song that has gotten her the most attention this year is her song “Try,” which was inspired during a writing session with Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Tony Dixon and Jason Reeves. As happens to many artists, Caillat was struggling with ideas, until she was struck in the heart by a piece of Babyface’s advice to
stay true to herself. Dixon and Reeves reiterated those powerful words, telling her, “You don’t have to try.”
The message was catchy and had true meaning for Caillat, who had been recently told that she needed to try a new style of writing. The end product of their collaboration was “Try,” a song that captures the undue struggles women put themselves through to aesthetically get ready for the day. Caillat explains, “There’s so much we have to do in order to make ourselves ‘beautiful’ so we feel accepted in the public eye. This [song] is an anthem for women to accept who they are and be comfortable showing it and not hiding it from one another.”
The day after its release on iTunes as a single, its companion lyric video was released, featuring fans and celebrities just as they are naturally, sans makeup, putting lyrics into practice for the whole world to see—You don’t have to try; just be who you are.
“When my friends and I get together, we have a blast.”
Doesn’t Try
HEALTHY souL
By Lora Incardona
HV
33HEALTHY VALLEY
GUM DISEASE INTERESTING FACTS f It can be present at any age and is the
most common cause of tooth loss in adults.
f Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that over 70% of Americans 65 and older have periodontitis.
f It is caused by a complex of bacteria. f There are approximately 500 species of
bacteria in your mouth. f You can be walking around with the
disease and never know you have it. f In most instances, there is no pain, and
by the time swollen and bleeding gums are noticed, it could be too late.
So what exactly is the connection between your mouth and the rest of your body? Inflammation.
Let’s start from the beginning. There are two major types of gum disease, gingivitis and periodontitis. They are both caused by bacterial plaque, that yucky, sticky, smelly film that forms every day around teeth. Gum disease always starts with gingivitis, which, left untreated, progresses to periodontitis. Gingivitis and periodontitis share a host of symptoms: bleeding gums, red puffy gums, painful gums and bad breath. Periodontitis also includes pus and tooth mobility.
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. It can be prevented by having good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly for professional cleanings (usually every 3 to 6 months). It’s easy—if you have good oral hygiene and remove the bacterial plaque every day, there is no disease! But if you have gingivitis, it can be treated easily by your dentist and the damages caused by it are reversible.
Periodontitis, well that’s a different story. Periodontitis is inflammation of the gums, bone and ligament attaching the tooth to
Gum disease is sometimes described as the “silent epidemic” that affects your entire body. Researchers suggest periodontal disease may play a role in a variety of health problems such as diabetes, obesity, arthritis, heart disease, pregnancy complications and respiratory illness. The mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body, so “FLOSS OR DIE.” Although bold and drastic if taken literally, it is meant to call attention to the role of oral health in overall body health. Some researchers have even found that having a healthy dentition adds years to your life, so on a positive note…FLOSS AND LIVE!!!
its socket. It can also be prevented—if there is no gingivitis, there is no periodontitis. Periodontitis starts by letting the bacteria in your mouth accumulate below the gums and on the roots of your teeth. The bacteria set in and create a biofilm that acts as a shield, almost impossible to penetrate. When the bacteria accumulate inside a gum pocket and release toxins, the pocket ulcerates and a war zone is created between them and the body’s defense mechanism, the immune system. Here lies the problem: the body’s defense mechanism does not discriminate. It fights bacteria and, in the process, dissolves bone. Your body recognizes there is an infection and tries to get rid of it by either killing or evicting the enemy, tooth included. Advanced inflammation destroys the ligament that anchors the tooth in its socket, loosening it until it falls out. Getting rid of teeth it is the natural way of your body fighting this disease.
But what does that have to do with inflammation and the connection between what happens in your mouth and your overall health?
Periodontal disease results mainly from the body’s failure to turn off its inflammatory response to infection. Many researchers believe that this response creates an inflammatory state of the entire body. If the entire body is inflamed, could this explain the presence of other inflammatory diseases in other parts of the body? Would this mean that if patients got rid of their gum disease, they would get rid of other disease? A causal relationship has not been established yet, but certainly there is a connection. For example, blood sugar levels in diabetics with periodontal disease can be significantly reduced when the patient’s gum disease is treated.
Another concern is that bacteria in the mouth do not just stay there. When you
chew food and brush your teeth, some bacteria can seep in your bloodstream. The big question is: Can the bacteria set up shop elsewhere and cause harm, such as in your heart? Is that the connection? Bacteria that are known to cause gum disease have been found in the heart, but it is hard to prove that these bacteria are the cause of heart disease. Many diseases, such as heart disease, are multifactorial.
There are factors involved in risk or predisposition to gum disease. The roles of the dentist and hygienist are now evolving to not only treat gum disease but to assess a patient’s overall risk of gum disease. Some of these factors include age, smoking habits, poor oral hygiene, medications, genetics, stress, hormone levels, other systemic diseases, environmental factors, presence of gum pockets, previous gum disease, clenching or grinding of the teeth, poor nutrition and obesity.
TREATMENTThere are various ways to treat gingivitis and periodontitis, but prevention is the key! Good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist, hygienist or the periodontist are the best ways to prevent gum disease. Although there is no way to be bacteria-free, keeping bacteria in check is an ongoing practice and a goal met by two main approaches: 1) brushing and flossing a daily basis to remove the bacteria before they create harmful biofilm and 2) reducing the number of bacteria through other means, such as mouthwashes, that combat the bacteria.
Before gingivitis develops into periodontitis, it is important to treat it as soon as it is diagnosed. The treatment for gingivitis is usually simple. A thorough professional dental cleaning is usually the most common.
For patients diagnosed with periodontitis, other treatments are necessary. The four
FLOSS OR DIE!!!
OR DIE!!!By Katherine Rodriguez, DMD
Diplomate of the American Academy of Periodontology
main treatments being scaling and root planing, laser periodontal therapy (LANAP), periodontal surgery and removal of the teeth.
f Scaling and root planing are reserved for mild periodontitis. It involves numbing the gums and cleaning the roots of the teeth. On occasion, antimicrobial agents are inserted into the pockets.
f Laser periodontal therapy, or LANAP, is the newest modality of treatment. It requires the clinician to be certified in the LANAP protocol and the use of the Periolase Laser. This treatment is very attractive to many patients who suffer from the disease because it allows for minimal discomfort. The treatment also involves numbing the gums and cleaning the roots of the teeth, plus it incorporates the added benefits of laser energy to disinfect the pockets and create a biologic environment for the regeneration of bone.
f Periodontal surgery is considered the gold standard for moderate to severe periodontal disease. By flapping the gums, we are able to access the infected root and bone, remove the biofilm and, in most occasions, place bone grafts, membranes and growth factors to regenerate the tissues that are damaged.
f Tooth removal is reserved for when the progression of the disease is so advanced that none of the three prior treatments can eliminate the infection and create a healthy environment. The only option to be rid of the infection is to remove the infected tooth. Tooth removal is the least attractive option, but once a tooth cannot be saved, the goal is to preserve the remaining bone so, if necessary, the patient can be a candidate to replace the tooth in the future.
Once treatment is completed and the periodontal disease is controlled, the patient must stick to a rigorous routine of oral home care (brushing, flossing, rinsing) as well as regular periodontal maintenance cleanings, which usually are programmed every three months. Patients who do not follow the maintenance protocol are at higher risk of recurrence.
“Every day, patients come to my practice to check their gums and every day I diagnose gum disease and, unfortunately, there are occasions when I have to deliver the bad news: ‘Mr. Smith, you are 40 years old and losing all of your teeth.’ If you are showing signs and symptoms of gum disease, visit your dentist or local periodontist for a comprehensive gum exam. It’s less expensive, less painful and less time consuming if we catch it early,” says Dr. Rodriguez. Gum disease is not just about going to the dentist. It is about your oral health and how it could be affecting your entire body.
HV ALTERNATiVE
INSOMNIA and Integrated Oriental Medicine
By Consuelo Camarillo De G., Lic. Ac.
HV
37HEALTHY VALLEY
There is no denying that our society has been affected by the widespread indulgence of technology. Online television, social websites, texting and surfing the Internet have become major distracters when it comes to following the body’s natural sleep routine. Furthermore, shift work and nighttime computer use disturb our natural sleep pattern, making the body feel overtired and restless. Statistically, it has been determined that insomnia is occurring more frequently than ever before. This lack of proper sleep may be aggravated by recreational addictions like caffeine, alcohol, food and nicotine by increasing sleep deprivation or the incidents of insomnia.
We also know that living the typical American lifestyle in general is taking a toll on our sleep. The National Sleep Foundation reports that 20% of Americans admit to getting, on average, less than six hours of sleep each night and that the number of Americans resting a full eight hours has been on the decline. It has been proven that the amount of sleep a person needs changes with age; therefore, the patient’s age must be taken into consideration when evaluating for insomnia and other sleep disorders.
The damage that insomnia causes the body is real and includes not functioning correctly at work, depression, anxiety and being overweight, which leads to a host of other illnesses. These conditions, and others, persist because we are not letting our bodies, our systems, rest and renew themselves. We must understand that each night from 9:00 to 3:00, there are some critical physiological detoxification activities taking place in the liver and kidneys and if we do not respect our bodies’ natural programming, we are contributing to their demise and inviting
insomnia. A 16-year study of 70,000 women over 40 years old showed that women who slept less than five hours each night were more likely to develop obesity than those who regularly slept more than five hours, as revealed at a 2006 conference of the American Thoracic Society.
According to Oriental medicine, insomnia is a Yin-Yang disorder where Yang is restless and increased and Yin is suppressed and decreased. Insomnia is a result of the Yin-Yang disharmony. It is essential to sleep well in order to rejuvenate the body and eliminate waste and toxins that the body has accumulated during the day due to activity, stress, metabolic waste from food, etc.
In Oriental medicine, a critical aspect of the patient interview is asking about sleep patterns and sleep quality, such as if it is difficult to fall asleep or maintain sleep and, if dreams occur, how bad are they. This aids practitioners identifying patterns of deficiency or excess of sleep.
For millennia, acupuncture and Oriental medicine have been helping patients balance their bodies and restore the sleep and rest they need to be able to return to optimal and productive functioning.
We welcome your request for an evaluative consultation to learn about the use of acupuncture to ameliorate sleep disorders and help your body get the sleep and rest it needs.
This aids practitioners in identifying patterns of deficiency or excess of sleep.
CA
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ND
AR
COMMUNITY EVENTShv
SPETEMBER 20Childbirth Classes8:00 AM – 5:00 PMRio Grande Regional Hospital: Classrooms 1AB101 E. Ridge Rd.For more information, call 956-661-3110.
Every Monday“Doing Healthy Right” Weight Loss Class 12:00 PM and 5:30 PMThe Wellness Center at Renaissance5525 Doctors Dr., EdinburgFor more information, call 956-362-5610.
Every 2nd MondayBariatric Patients Support Group6:00 PM – 7:00 PMRio Grande Regional HospitalClassroom 1A&B101 E. Ridge Rd., McAllenFor more information, please call, Jennifer Trevino, RN at 956-661-3560.
Every 3rd MondayBariatric Patients Support Group6:00 PM – 7:00 PMValley Regional Hospital100 E. Alton Gloor Blvd., BrownsvilleFor more information, please call, Jennifer Trevino, RN at 956-661-3560.
Every 1st WednesdayCar Seat Inspection Station4:00 PM – 5:00 PMEdinburg Children’s Hospital1102 W. Trenton Rd., EdinburgFor more information, call 956-388-6519.
Every TuesdayDiabetes Education Class (call for Spanish class)1:00 PMSponsored by South Texas Health SystemMcAllen Medical Center, 3 East Classroom301 W. Expressway 83, McAllenFor more information, call 956-971-5850.
Every 2nd TuesdayWeight-Loss Surgery Support Group Meetings6:00 PM – 7:00 PMWeight-Loss Surgery Center416 Lindberg Ave., Ste. B, McAllenFor more information, call 956-664-9611.
Every WednesdayCancer Support Group 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMHosted by H.O.P.E. – Helping Other Patients EmotionallyFree to cancer patients and caregiversNew McAllen Public Library, Conf. Rm. B4001 N. 23rd St., McAllenFor more information, call 956-624-3840 or email [email protected].
Every 1st WednesdayLa Leche League 9:30 AM – 11:30 AMSupports and encourages mothers who want to breastfeedEdinburg Children’s Hospital, 2nd Floor Family Room1102 W. Trenton Rd., EdinburgFor more information, call Ann at 956-682-9770.
1st and 3rd WednesdaysBreast Cancer 101 (Support Group)English @ 5:30 PM & Spanish @ 10:00 AMFor women onlyTexas Oncology-McAllen1901 South Second Street, McAllen, TXFor more information, call 956-687-6169 or send email to [email protected].
Every 3rd WednesdayFree Mall Walkers Meetings9:00 AMSunrise Mall in Brownsville (in Luby’s Restaurant)Sponsored by Valley Baptist Medical Center-BrownsvilleFor more information, call 956-389-1950 or visit www.ValleyBaptist.net.
Every 1st ThursdayUS TOO Prostate Cancer Support Group7:00 PMTexas Oncology-McAllen, Community Conference Room1901 South Second Street, McAllenFor more information, contact Anthony Sala at 956-687-5150 or [email protected].
Every 1st and 3rd ThursdayJuvenile Diabetes Support Group 6:00 PM – 7:00 PMSouth Texas Juvenile Diabetes AssociationEdinburg Regional Medical Center, The Texas Room1102 W. Trenton Rd., EdinburgFor more information, call 956-631-8903 or email [email protected].
Every 2nd Saturday$10 Heart Risk Assessment 6:00 AM – 10:00 AMBy appointment onlyHeart Hospital Conference Room, 1st Floor500 E. Ridge Rd., McAllenFor more information, call 1-800-879-1033.
Every 3rd SaturdayChildbirth Education Class in English9:00 AM – 2:00 PMMcAllen Medical Center, Birthing Center301 W. Expressway 83, McAllenTo register, call Yvonne at 956-632-4372.
Every 4th SaturdayChildbirth Education Class in Spanish9:00 AM – 2:00 PMMcAllen Medical Center, Birthing Center301 W. Expressway 83, McAllenTo register, call Yvonne at 956-632-4372.
FOUNDATION
TEXAS ONCOLOGY - McAllen
TOGETHER LETS RAISE AWARENESS FOR BREAST CANCER RESEARCH, TREATMENT AND PREVENTION
Adults $30.00 6-15 ages $10.00 1-5 ages FreeContact: Katia Moreno (956) 992-0219 (956)[email protected]
ENTR
Y FE
E Saturday, Oct. 25th 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. Texas Oncology-McAllen 1901 South 2nd St . McAllen, TX
EVEN
T REGISTRATION & COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONOct. 24th 5-8 p.m.
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