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Dr. Jan McBarron Fitness

Dr. Jan McBarron Explains How Bariatric Medicine and Fitness Work Together to Combat Obesity

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Obesity is a serious public health concern in the US. It is a risk factor in illnesses such as cardiac arrhythmias, coronary heart disease, stroke, ventricular dysfunction and heart failure. According to NCBI, up to 66% of adults in the country are overweight or obese. The situation is worsened by revelations that $140 billion is spent annually to treat obesity and affiliated ailments. The amount represents 9% of all annual medical expenditures. Scientists are yet to fully uncover the real causes of obesity. However, there is a strong case for a combination of factors, including genetic, behavioral, metabolic and hormonal changes.

A case for weight loss in obese patients

A comprehensive weight loss program should take into consideration efforts to maintain proper weight and health, as well as prevent future weight gain. Effective weight loss programs like bariatric treatment and exercise can minimize the risk factors and severity of weight related ailments. A medical bariatric physician, also called bariatrician can help an obese patient follow through a weight loss program without surgical intervention or refer the patient for surgery if necessary. Bariatricians are specialist in treating obesity disorders.

As part of treatment, a bariatrician can suggest the following interventions: diet changes, behavioral therapy and measured physical activities. According to Obesity Action, the treatment can be divided into two parts, the assessment and management. The assessment is done to determine the patient’s obesity levels and health status. The management part covers weight loss activities, measures to control risk factors and body weight management.

The bariatrician will look at the patient’s medical history, laboratory tests and results of physical examination to ascertain the obesity level and health status. Laboratory testing is normally requested to analyze key health issues including thyroid function and cardiac status via an electrocardiogram, as well as other tests. The bariatrician will also provide necessary counseling and to help ensure the patient follows the weight loss plan.

The progress made in areas like physical activity and diet must be recorded to gauge progress. If there are any underlying risks, the bariatrician will monitor the patient and institute the necessary changes to keep the program on track. Bariatric treatment may also involve the use of medications to assist with appetite and portion control. When writing a prescription for weight loss, the physician will analyze the expected benefits and possible side effects. Other factors include the patient’s current health and medical history.

Recommended exercises to stay healthy and lose weight

Exercise is critical for anyone who wants to stay physically fit and healthy. According to the World Health Organization factsheet, people who exercise regularly have lower rates of mortality arising from Depression, Breast Cancer, Coronary Disease, Hypertension and more. Exercise can also reduce the likelihood of suffering hip and vertebral fracture. The following physical activities are recommended for adults:
• Physical activities: hiking, walking, gardening, dancing and swimming
• Mobility exercises: cycling, jogging and walking
• Occupational activities: work, household chores, planned exercises and playing games
Note; these exercises can be carried out at individual, family or group level

Even with all the listed efforts, it is important to recognize that obesity is a complex global issue. The strategies to control weight, including exercise also remain controversial and indefinite. The controversy stems from conflicting studies and varied responses from different schools of thought. However, people suffering from obesity generally require increased daily activity to achieve weight loss. The program may constitute strength training, cardio exercises and aerobics.

The intensity of training should also be low to modest. Indeed, a better outcome can be achieved by putting emphasis on the duration of training rather than intensity. For patients with a BMI of 35 and over, exercises that cause too much strain on the joints should be avoided. These exercises include aggressive contact sports, jumping and jogging. A professional weight trainer working with a bariatric physician can help a patient through every step of training.

Get the right expert attention!

Patients suffering from obesity and its related disorders continue to benefit from treatment programs offered by bariatric physicians. Dr. Jan McBarron (Duke and The Doctor) is a well-recognized and highly respected Bariatric Medical Doctor residing in Nevada. She earned her medical doctorate from Drexel University School of Medicine in Philadelphia and was recently recognized as “The Distinguished Alumni for Entrepreneurship”. With her husband she moved to Georgia where for over thirty years she specialized in Bariatric Medicine while co-hosting with her husband Duke, the award winning, nationally syndicated, health talk radio show, Duke and The Doctor.

Having relocated to Nevada, she continues working in public speaking, writing books, blogs, magazine articles as well as for social media, and in philanthropic initiatives thru her scholarship campaigns. While she enjoyed seeing patients individually in private practice, she feels her work now enables her to reach more people than ever.

dr. thomas v. taylor Long Life

Dr. Thomas Taylor Shares Tips for Living a Long and Healthy Life

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In this country, many people age far worse than they should. They become feeble, with brittle bodies, wrinkles and poor muscle tone. They can barely get out of bed or their cars and walk around. They don’t feel well, so their quality of life is destroyed. How can this be reversed? In other countries, we hear about people living even to and above 100 years with health and vitality of body, mind and spirit.

In order to find out how people can achieve a healthy lifestyle and longevity, we spoke with Dr. Thomas Taylor, a retired bariatric surgeon. Dr. Taylor has written several books, including “Overcoming Obesity.” He is highly experienced in both gastric bypass and gastric sleeve procedures to help his patients lose weight. He also serves on the board of the American Diabetic Association.

Exercise –

According to MedicalNewsToday, exercise is not just for radiant physical health, it is also for our mental health. We are not utilizing our bodies to our natural capabilities when we fail to exercise most every day. Exercise helps us mentally by providing time for release and for time out and introspection. The simple act of taking a walk for 30 to 60 minutes each day helps and heals our bodies and minds.

According to Harvard Medical School, the four most important types of exercise to engage in every day include:

Aerobic exercise: This is the type of exercise that gets our blood pumping and puts a glow on our faces. Simple means of participating in aerobic exercise each day include brisk walking for 30 to 60 minutes, swimming, indoor aerobic exercises, water aerobics or cycling.

Benefits of aerobic exercise include lowered blood pressure, less body fat, lower blood sugar, lower bad cholesterol levels and healthier heart and lung function. Aerobic exercise improves our mood as well.

Strength training: Weight training does not have to be done with massively heavy weights, but it does need to be performed with weights such that one set has around 8 to 10 repetitions with strict form. If you can easily do more than 12 repetitions, increase the weight a tiny bit. Other strength training routines include calisthenics such as squats, lunges and push-ups.

Benefits of strength training include stronger muscles, good bone density, lower blood sugar, better posture and balance and stronger joints.

Stretching: Stretching should begin and end each exercise session. Stretching makes our muscles flexible, decreasing pain and the possibility of injury. Stretching is also a wonderful physical release when done carefully and properly.

Balance exercises: Balance exercises, such as tai chi and yoga, help our bodies support our weight more safely. They often help improve our core body strength.

Eat Well –

The U.K.’s National Health Service advises eight steps for more healthy eating:

Don’t overdo the calories: They advise around 2,500 calories of food for men each day and 2,000 for women.

Eat starchy carbohydrates: About a third of our food each day should be starchy carbohydrates, like bread, rice and potatoes.

Eat fruits and vegetables: We need about five portions of fruits and vegetables each day.

Eat more fish

Avoid saturated fats, sugar and too much salt

Stay hydrated: Drink six to eight glasses of safe water each day

Eat breakfast: You cannot lose weight by skipping breakfast. Try for more carbohydrates and a bit of skim milk or skim yogurt to accompany your carbohydrate.

Avoid Alcohol –

Alcohol is a poison to our bodies. It makes it harder to keep off excess fat, making it store in our mid-sections. It blinds us to our emotions. Also, according to LiveStrong.com, it can permanently damage our brains, heart, nervous system, liver and emotional stability. It can lead us into accidents, injury, dependence and even death.

Avoid Drugs –

The government of Canada encourages people to avoid drug use altogether. They cite the risk of addiction, the potential changes to how our brain works and the physical risk of going about life impaired. They suggest that people who have begun taking drugs to dull their emotions need to confront their feelings and even seek psychological help or the help of a family member if you are having deep feelings.

Our feelings are there to provide us warnings. We must not dull them but listen to their wise counsel.

Avoid Caffeine –

According to HealthLine, caffeine wrinkles our skin, alters our brain chemistry, causes anxiety and panic attacks, spikes our blood pressure, limits absorption of some nutrients and impairs our sleep. If we can’t get up each day without having artificial stimulus that is so dangerous, what about our lives do we need to change to make our lives happy, so we want to get out of bed each day? Tip: Answers are below.

Avoid Tobacco –

According to Smokefree.gov, immediate benefits that occur within 20 minutes of your last cigarette are that your body begins to clear out the toxins you just inhaled. In three days, the nicotine has left your body. As the toxins are leaving our bodies, we feel temporarily worse, rather than better.

Long-term help from quitting smoking includes reducing the risk of heart disease, 13 different types of cancer, stroke, bronchitis and emphysema. Also, your skin may return to normal health and not be prematurely wrinkled.

The Mayo Clinic urges smokers who wish to kick the habit to realize that the first five to 10 minutes of craving cigarettes are key because people who get past those few minutes are closer to the time when they don’t have those cravings any longer.

The Mayo Clinic also advises examining what types of situations cause the cravings and find better strategies to cope. For example, smoking to end anxiety is one trigger for cravings. Why not sit in your anxiety and find other means of working out your personal situation to not have such stress on a daily basis? Our emotions were given us for self- and planetary preservation. Try honoring those feelings instead, sitting in the feelings and seeing where the feelings lead us to in terms of healthy action.

Spend Time Outdoors Every Day –

Medical Daily cites a study that shows daily walks outdoors in nature reduce stress, improve mental health and improve sleep at night.

Share Love –

Passing it forward and random acts of kindness are not just pithy mantras. When one lives this as a part and parcel of one’s life, there is this power that we partake in that somehow makes us stronger than we would otherwise be. It also empowers others to do the same.

Find Something Outside of Yourself to Support and Sustain –

When you help others, you feel warm, loving and empowered inside. It gives you strength emotionally.

People who are outside every day enjoying nature, caring for others with their emotions and hearts, caring for their own bodies with healthy food and exercise are so full of nurturance that they sustain themselves in a healthy and happy manner, and they radiate this out to others. Dr. Thomas Taylor hopes for this lifestyle for all of his patients for the success and survival of our planet.

dr. donald littlejohn on alleviating back and neck pain

Donald Littlejohn Shares the Most Common Causes of Neck Pain

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Neck pain can be an uncomfortable condition to deal with because of the effects that it could potentially have on activities of daily living. What makes neck pain a difficult condition to treat is that the pain itself is subjective.

There is no clear way to determine the intensity and height of discomfort that the pain could cause. What is important to try and avoid some of the most common causes of neck pain, so it does not become a chronic issue to deal with. For further information on this kind of pain and how to avoid it, you should consult an expert in the field like Dr. Donald Littlejohn.

Injury

A direct injury to the neck is one of the most common causes of neck pain. The neck happens to be one of the most vulnerable parts of the body, and when it comes to trauma that comes from falls and car accidents, there are limited ways to protect it. Direct contact with the neck could cause muscles and ligaments to be moved outside of their normal position, which could cause tremendous pain.

In addition, if there are fractures of the bones in the neck, also known as cervical vertebrae, the spinal cord could face residual damage as well. A common injury of the neck that takes place from car accidents is whiplash. This is what happens when the neck gets injured due to a sudden jerking of the head. This is fairly common in head-on collisions at high velocities.

Muscle Strain

Neck pain can also be triggered if you happen to have muscle strains. This is commonly seen in situations where the neck muscles are being overused. This can be precipitated by engaging in a poor neck position for activities such as computer or office work. If this is done for hours on end, this can cause a tremendous strain on the neck, causing aches and pain later.

The pain associated with muscle strains can be made even worse with movement. Other conditions that can be associated with muscle strains include muscle spasms, headaches and restriction of neck movement due to the pain.

Degenerative Disc Disease

This is a condition that many may suffer from as the body ages. Over time, the gelatinous center of the discs in our spines dry out. This can cause an intense narrowing and a decrease in the distance between each vertebra. This has been known to cause chronic pain in the neck as the patient ages.

Cervical Spondylosis

Another degenerative condition that can predispose to neck pain is cervical spondylosis. This is a condition involving the cervical spine in which the gradual wear and tear begins to take its toll.

What makes this condition difficult to deal with is that along with cervical spondylosis, bone spurs will often develop. Bone spurs are small growths of tissue that grow outward. The spurs are actually meant to protect the surface of the bone, but these spurs can also be harmful because they can press on nerve roots as they depart the spinal canal.

Cervical spondylosis also does not come with any obvious symptoms, but neck pain soon follows after and may potentially radiate to the shoulder blades.

Cervical Spinal Canal Stenosis

The vertebrae can suffer from degenerative changes as well, and pressure can be applied upon the spinal cord. The neck pain that is associated with this activity is exacerbated with movement and physical activity. Weakness in the arms or legs could also occur.

Just like cervical spondylosis, there are no obvious symptoms with this condition. However, on occasion there may be the sensation of Lhermitte’s sign. This is a physical, electric shock like feeling when the neck is bent in a forward manner.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

The temporomandibular joint is what gives you the ability to open and close your jaw on command. If there is damage to this joint, it may cause neck pain. Damage here can cause headaches, difficulty opening the mouth, ear pain and a popping sound upon movement of the jaw. All of these activities could potentially cause extra strain on the neck and cause discomfort.

It is recommended that if there is damage here, to eat softer foods, apply heat to the jaw for at least half an hour twice a day and to avoid unnecessary chewing. For more information on all of the possible causes of neck pain, you could consult expert information from your local chiropractor or specialist, such as Donald Littlejohn.

Myofascial Pain

After a neck injury, myofascial pain can develop. This is the kind of pain that comes from tender areas of muscle that can be sensitive to touch with applied pressure. They come through trigger points and can be tangibly felt. When these specific trigger points are pressed, they can become very painful and radiate to other parts of the body. Neck pain is commonly associated with myofascial pain and can gradually grow worse over time.

Central Cord Syndrome

If the spinal cord is damaged due to a neck injury, it can result in serious neck pain and decreased range of motion. Central cord syndrome happens when this part of the body is injured. Sometimes, there may be a tumor that is embedded within the spinal cord that causes the problem.

In severe cases of this syndrome, people may suffer from poor bladder control, difficulty walking and sexual dysfunction. Central cord syndrome affects more than just spinal nerve roots and can affect the human body in other ways beyond just the neck.

As you can see, there are many conditions and events that can predispose to neck pain. The neck is one of the most vulnerable parts of the body, and serious damage to this area can result in not only severe neck pain, but damaging symptoms throughout the entire body.

Premier Allergy Discusses Breakthrough Treatments for People With Food Allergies

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If your child is allergic to peanuts, he or she is not alone as peanut allergy is one of the most common food allergies in America; according to a study published by Business Insider, an American financial and business news website, nearly 2 million American children are allergic to peanuts. As parents, we naturally want the very best for our children, which includes not having to deprive them of foods that they would otherwise enjoy. As it stands, there is currently no FDA-approved treatment for peanut allergies other than an emergency epinephrine injections, which are used to combat the severe reactions caused by accidental exposure.

Eliminating peanuts from one’s diet can be difficult and requires more than just avoiding jars of peanut butter. After all, many foods contain peanuts in one form or another. Some of the most common peanut-containing foods include cookies, cereals, granola bars, and certain grain bread. Fortunately, breakthrough treatments, which promises to enable those with peanut allergies to indulge in peanut-containing foods without the threat of a severe allergic reaction, is said to be on the horizon.

A NEW VACCINE TO TREAT PEANUT ALLERGIES

Although not officially approved by the FDA, there is currently a vaccine available that may help those struggling with peanut allergies. According to a study, which was published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and conducted by scientists at the famed University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, the vaccine designed to alter the immune response to peanuts was shown to be effective when tested on mice, and researchers believe that these positive benefits may be translatable to humans.

According to lead researcher Jessica O’Koneck, the vaccine is said to work by helping to combat the faulty immune reaction that causes the body to produce an excessive amount of immunoglobulin E, antibodies that are produced by the immune system, in response to being exposed to peanuts or peanut-containing foods. It should be noted that research is still ongoing; however, the promise of a vaccine capable of resolving peanut allergies may soon be a reality. These early findings are of great interest to allergy clinics across the nation, especially Premier Allergy, a well-regarded allergy clinic based in Columbus, OH that is routinely looking for new ways to help treat patients with severe allergies.

A NEW ORAL IMMUNOTHERAPY FOR PEANUT ALLERGIES

In addition to a promising new vaccine, oral immunotherapy for the treatment of peanut allergies is also said to be on the horizon as well. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, which involved experts from numerous research institutions, an oral immunotherapy drug called AR101 is proving to be a viable treatment for those struggling with peanut allergies. The study, which included participants between the ages of 4 and 17, found that 80 percent of those who were exposed to peanuts and were given AR101 experienced a marked increase in their tolerance to peanuts.

Similar to the new vaccine intended for peanut allergies, more research is needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this new oral immunotherapy for peanut allergies. However, early results look quite promising. And as with any other breakthrough treatment, you can be assured that Premier Allergy is waiting to see what becomes of this potentially new way of treating peanut allergies as well.

If you or your child is struggling with peanut allergies or food allergies of any kind, you’re encouraged to schedule an appointment with Premier Allergy today.

Dr Thomas Ocheltree Oral Surgeon

Thomas Ocheltree Gives a Glimpse into the Daily Routine of an Oral Surgeon

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Oral surgeons and dentists specialize in taking care of teeth, gums and the mouth. According to WebMD, the conditions that may be treated by an oral surgeon include impacted teeth, tooth loss and jaw-bone related problems. The other conditions include cleft lip and cleft palate repair, facial injury repair, snoring/sleep apnea correction, facial infections and lesion removal and biopsy. Impacted teeth usually occur when the third molars do not emerge on the gum line as expected. Dr. Thomas Ocheltree, an oral surgeon in Bloomington, Illinois, explains that patients with this condition may experience pain and swelling and develop gum infection. 

Dentists and oral surgeons may suggest dental implant to treat tooth loss. The treatment is often seen as a good alternative to dentures and bridges. During the implantation process, the surgeon anchors the implant along the jawbone so as to place the artificial teeth. Common jawbone problems include unequal jaw growth and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. TMJ is essentially a joint located on the front of the ear, at the juncture where the lower jaw adjoins the skull. A dysfunction in the TMJ can cause several problems including facial pain and headaches. 

Duties and daily routine of oral surgeons and dentists

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are generally expected to work long hours and be on call around the clock to cover serious maxillofacial trauma cases and other medical emergencies. The medical professionals need strong interpersonal skills and comprehensive medical understanding to work efficiently. The care and treatment by the surgeons cover the head, jaw and mouth. According to Career Planner, the basic duties of oral and maxillofacial surgeons include:


• Administration of general and local anesthetics
• Working with a professional team constituting orthodontists and restorative dentists to craft treatment plans
• Extracting damaged, impacted and non-restorable teeth
• Undertaking emergency treatments of various facial injuries, including fractured facial bones, facial lacerations and intra-oral lacerations.
• Treat infections of the oral cavity, neck, jaws and salivary glands
• Perform mouth and jaw surgery for patients suffering cleft lip and palate and growth problems affecting the jaw.
• Perform surgery to prepare for dental implant and work out strategies to support the regeneration of deficient gum tissues and bones.
• Restoration of bone, skin and nerve functions in order to reconstruct the face and the jaw.
• Perform minor cosmetic procedures such as minor facial rejuvenation, cheekbone and chin enhancements. Popular facial rejuvenation techniques include laser technology and Botox. 

The professional life of a dentist and oral surgeon is very similar to that of other medical professionals. A brief highlight of what an oral surgeon does on a typical day includes performing surgery on the mouth, jaws, head, neck and head. These operations are critical in correcting abnormalities of the jaw, removing tumors and abnormal growths as well as extracting a problematic tooth. Because of the growing perception about hygiene and health, many dental practitioners have evolved their trade to include cosmetic care. The work done by dentists and oral surgeons also includes many aspects of management and administration.

According to the Princeton Review, dentists and oral surgeons typically work 7 to 10 hours a day. A significant time of the day is spent educating patients on the best ways to create and preserve a healthy mouth. Dentists often encourage patients to go for frequent checkups as a way to maintain good health and minimize the risk of oral diseases. In the afternoons, most dentists spend time filing insurance claims and managing paperwork. Dentists and oral surgeons working in private clinics and practices spend a lot of money on rent and insurance premiums. The other cost implications go into maintaining qualified staff and purchasing drugs and equipment. 

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon in Illinois

Dr. Thomas Ocheltree is an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon working at Doran, Capodice, Efaw and Ocheltree, LLC. The practice mostly performs specialized oral surgery, facial cosmetic surgery and dental implants. The other services available include tooth extraction, socket preservation, bone grafting, jawbone health and impacted wisdom teeth treatment. Besides clinical treatment, Thomas spends a good part of his workdays scheduling exams, making follow-ups and recommending referrals for patients with serious facial trauma cases and other rising emergencies. 

The practice is based in Bloomington, Illinois and serves the larger surrounding community. The decision to have the treatment center in Bloomington is largely because the four partnering doctors grew up in the area and wanted to give back to the community. Thomas did his oral and maxillofacial surgery training at the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. Prior to that, he attended Augustana College and graduated in 1993. For his residency, Dr. Thomas Ocheltree went to Christiana Care Health Systems. He currently lives in Illinois with his family. 

What is an Orthopedist?

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Many people have heard of an orthopedist before. However, they are unaware of what an orthopedist actually does. Fortunately, Dr. Gregg Schellack DO has provided us with some important information on orthopedist and the many benefits of visiting one. 

What is an Orthopedist?

An orthopedist is a medical professional who focuses on correcting injuries that are associated with the spine. You will find Gregg Schellack Orthopedist working on individuals who have spinal deformities, injuries, and many more skeletal problems. His line of work aims to restore symmetry to the body. However, there are many causes of imbalance to the musculoskeletal system. Let’s take a look at some of these problems and how an orthopedist can help you.

Causes of Musculoskeletal Complications

One of the biggest causes of musculoskeletal complications is physical injuries. There are dozens of athletes who become injured and will need to seek the help of an orthopedist to help them recover. However, there are also other complications that may end up causing bodily discomfort and pain. Skeletal deformities that happen over time or at birth can end up creating complications for an individual. They will need to seek help from a licensed orthopedist to help manage their pain and restore balance to their bodies.

Different Types of Orthopedic Practices

It should be noted that there are different forms of orthopedic services available. One of the most common types of orthopedic services is orthopedic surgeries. These orthopedic surgeons will end up in school for over 14 years of professional education to provide the highest quality of orthopedic services. You may also find individuals who specialize in specific areas of the body. Feet, hips, shoulders, and more are common areas of specialization that an orthopedic surgeon may decide to focus his or her practice on.

However, there are also other non-invasive forms of orthopedic practice. A rheumatologist is someone who assists individuals who are suffering from arthritis and other bone degenerating conditions. Rheumatologists are trained to identify these conditions before they ever happen and provide treatment to ease conditions. 

Finally, a physical therapist provides orthopedic services in the form of recovery. Physical therapists may end up helping someone regain function of their body parts after they have sustained a serious injury. This type of orthopedist will work with a patient for some time to ensure that they receive the treatment they need. This type of therapy can last for months to years. It all depends on the severity of the injury that the patient experienced.

The Importance of Working With an Orthopedist

We depend on our bodies to function properly each day in order to complete our daily tasks. However, many people will end up neglecting the aches and pains that their body begins to experience. They will oftentimes not seek treatment. This can lead to problems becoming more severe in time. This is why it is important to speak with your professional orthopedist to determine the best course of action whenever it comes to receiving treatment. They will provide you with the medical consultation and advice you need to get your life back on track.

Dr. Gregg Shellack’s Insight

No one understands the world of orthopedic medicine better than Dr. Gregg Shellack. he has spent the majority of his professional life helping people recover from various physical ailments. This article was designed to provide you with insight on orthopedics and why you should visit one if you are experiencing bodily pain. A medical professional will be able to assess your condition and assist you with your recovery process.

Dr. Stoner's Thoughts on Pain vs Addiction

Dr. J. Fred Stoner Shares His Thoughts on Balancing Pain and Addiction

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Many people who turn to drugs like opioids do so as a means of managing pain. Somebody who’s been seriously injured might be prescribed opioids and have a hard time getting off of them. Eventually, they might start using illicit and unregulated street drugs, such as heroin and fentanyl. Dr. J. Fred Stoner has some insight to share about how patients can find the balance between pain and addiction.

Opioids and Pain Management

Opioids are meant to be a short-term solution for those who are going through acute pain, such as the pain experienced while recuperating from a broken or fractured bone. However, a dependency on these drugs can develop very quickly, due to how addictive they are. When someone is no longer able to get access to opioids from a doctor, they may start buying it from dealers. They might also find that they want to experience a stronger high. As the body learns to tolerate higher doses of opioids, people can start taking more than their body can handle, leading to overdoses.

Chronic pain differs from acute pain in that its far more prolonged. While opioids might be able to make someone with a chronic pain condition, such as fibromyalgia or multiple sclerosis, feel better for some time, the limited duration of their prescription means the relief isn’t going to last. If they develop a dependency, they could find themselves dealing with withdrawal in addition to the pain they’re already experiencing. 

Relapses

If someone is in recovery for opioid addiction, they have to be careful about not relapsing. However, being injured could start them on a path to re-addiction. They might think that they have no other choice and rationalize that they’ll have a better handle this time. However, opioids are highly addictive for many users, and they’re especially dangerous for anyone who has a history of abuse.

There are some things that can be done that let recovering opioid addicts relieve themselves of pain without being forced to relapse. There are psychotherapy methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, that lets them redirect their attention to creating positive thoughts that lessen the impact of negative ones that could make pain feel worse and the desire to use opiates far weaker. Although the relief may not come as quickly as it does when taking opiates, patients don’t have to deal with any negative side effects, such as experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Non-Opioid Treatments

Although opioids are some of the most potent and powerful means of treating chronic and acute pain, they are not the only options. Awareness of the long-term consequences of opioid usage has brought attention to treatment options that are far-less addictive. Many of these are easily accessible due to being less dangerous. Over-the-counter medication, such as Ibuprofen and Tylenol, can be used to relieve pain without patients worrying about getting hooked. However, they need to make sure that they follow the instructions regarding how and when to take these drugs. 

If the pain has a psychological connection, a patient might need to seek counseling in tandem with other, safer methods of pain treatment. An exercise program approved by their doctor can help them better deal with pain, as can working with physical therapists. Methods like acupuncture and meditation might also help people to not feel the extent of their pain so much. In cases of chronic pain, patients may try to explore surgery option. Some patients can be helped by getting operations that help relieve their pain. Patients shouldn’t try to underplay how much pain they’re experiencing. Being vocal about their struggle means they’ll be more able to get help, but they should understand that opioids aren’t the only option.

Healthy Lifestyles

Addiction can come from pain management because patients are anxious to find a quick source of relief. However, things like chronic pain aren’t meant to be given an easy fix. Trying to fix things so suddenly can be very risky. For someone to be able to deal with chronic pain, they need to focus not only on how they can relieve their pain but also on how they can lead a healthy lifestyle.

Chronic pain can be reduced if a patient is getting enough rest, eating properly, and finding healthy ways to deal with stress. Their chronic pain can cause them to become stressed, and their stress can make them feel even more bodily pain. These methods, and ones like meditation, can teach patients better awareness of their pain and find ways to get through flare-ups without as much trouble.

Dr. J. Fred Stoner knows that finding the balance between addiction and pain is very difficult for many patients. They don’t want to deal with addiction, but they also don’t want to feel like they’re powerless against their pain. We thankfully have been learning about ways to confront pain without the drawbacks of opioids.

Addiction can come from pain management because patients are anxious to find a quick source of relief. However, things like chronic pain aren’t meant to be given an easy fix. Trying to fix things so suddenly can be very risky. For someone to be able to deal with chronic pain, they need to focus not only on how they can relieve their pain but also on how they can lead a healthy lifestyle.

Chronic pain can be reduced if a patient is getting enough rest, eating properly, and finding healthy ways to deal with stress. Their chronic pain can cause them to become stressed, and their stress can make them feel even more bodily pain. These methods, and ones like meditation, can teach patients better awareness of their pain and find ways to get through flare-ups without as much trouble.

Dr. J. Fred Stoner knows that finding the balance between addiction and pain is very difficult for many patients. They don’t want to deal with addiction, but they also don’t want to feel like they’re powerless against their pain. We thankfully have been learning about ways to confront pain without the drawbacks of opioids.

Dr-Summit-Shah-Premier-Allergy

Dr. Summit Shah Of Premier Allergy Explains How Technology Helps

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Dr-Summit-Shah-Premier-Allergy

Dr. Summit Shah of Premier Allergy offers scholarships to the upcoming future of medicine to continue on a path of innovations and refinement of medicine. Medical professionals, researchers, and patients alike admit to improvements in medicine that, otherwise would be impossible without the use of technology. It is almost impossible to imagine the medical without technology because of the extraordinary and positive effects it has brought about.

Dr. Summit Shah on SuperBCrew
Nancy-Behrman

The Universal Importance of the Closer’s Role

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Nancy at Behrman has always been interested in learning more about the principles and philosophies responsible for the continued success of any organization, even when that organization seems to have very little in common with her own organization. The founder of a remarkably successful public relations and brand-building firm, Ms. Behrman has been a close observer of the San Francisco Giants for the past few years, particularly due to the organization’s consistent ability to outperform expectations while winning title after title.

Organizational Balance

According to Ms. Behrman, organizational balance and continuity are critical components that support the efforts of any well-run organization. Ms. Behrman has deeply valued balance and continuity over the 30 years since starting in Public Relations. She immediately recognized the role these qualities have played in helping the Giants win three World Series titles since 2010. With an exceptional core group of players in place — along with a rare level of continuity among the team’s executive personnel and coaching staff — the Giants have created a culture in which the whole is always greater than the sum of its parts.

As a keen observer of the club, Ms. Behrman saw how a sudden lack of balance affected the entire organization during a 2016 season that began with such promise. The instability of the bullpen led manager Bruce Bochy — one of the most respected leaders in the game — to make the kind of questionable decisions Giants fans had only seen from opposing dugouts and not from their own.

As Ms. Behrman points out, Bochy did not suddenly become a poor in-game tactician; the instability of the bullpen and especially the lack of a reliable and lights-out closer made it nearly impossible to confidently develop and implement an effective strategy for winning close games. Despite the fact that 2017 is an odd year, Ms. Behrman is staunch in her belief that the Giants will contend for the World Series after an offseason in which they will surely secure the bullpen help they lacked during the 2016 campaign.

3 Acidic Foods To Avoid For Dental Health

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When most of us think of acid, we can’t help but think of something noxious and dangerous. After all, we all grew up watching movies in which the villains made use of concentrated acids in all kinds of nefarious ways. However, the reality is much different. Acids exist everywhere in nature, but most are not strong enough to be dangerous.

However, just because they don’t burn your flesh off doesn’t necessarily mean that they are good for you. The sensitive enamel that covers your teeth is the main thing that protects them from rotting. Over time, acidic food and drink can and will erode this layer of enamel and lead to serious subsequent tooth decay.

Lemon and Other Citrus

The juice of these two citrus fruits may be loaded with vitamin C, but that is actually part of the problem. Vitamin C, while very healthy, is still an acid (ascorbic acid, to be exact). Between that and the high amount of citric acid that these fruits also contain, these fruits are mostly composed of acidic substances. In most foods, this is not a problem because the vitamin C is not concentrated enough. If you use either of these as a vitamin C supplement, consider using something a little less harsh or watering it down heavily.

Sour Candy

This one probably won’t surprise anyone. Sour candy is a problem for the same reason that lemons and limes can be a problem. Have you ever wondered what makes it so sour? In most cases, the answer is citric acid. This is the same substance that can make lemon juice dangerous to the teeth, except that in this case it has been concentrated more heavily. In short, you get the same risk to your teeth without any of the health benefits of vitamin C.

Pickles

While this one may not spring to mind for most people, it is a fact that pickles are one of the most acidic foods that you can get! They are so acidic that they can soften the enamel of your teeth very quickly. Some dentists recommend that you avoid brushing for an hour after eating pickles because the softened enamel can be worn off by a toothbrush.

If you are a dental professional, it is of the utmost importance that you advise your patients to avoid the problem foods. While a small amount may not have a deleterious effect upon the teeth, the smart thing is to avoid them altogether. Besides, any realistic medical professional understands that there is a limit to just how far a patient will be willing to follow your instructions. Outside of a hospital setting, it is very hard to control a patient’s behavior on a day to day basis. If you ever happen to need the advice of a solid dental consultant, I would recommend Karl Jobst. Because of Karl Jobst Grove OK is one of the best places to go for dental service, and likewise because of Karl Jobst Grove OK is also a great place to go for consulting services that will help you streamline your business.

If you are not a dental professional, You would do well to cut these foods out of your diet altogether or at least reduce your consumption. It may be tempting to “cheat” and eat them occasionally, but you can often reduce your cravings by thinking about the intense pain associated with a toothache.