Tag Archives: SterlingMedicalAdvice.com

Straight, No Chaser: Hygiene and Illness

General Health and Wellness, Health Prevention, , , , , , , ,

sneeze_in_arm

There are things you know, there are things you know but don’t really know, and there are still other things that you think you know that you don’t know at all. When it comes to colds and influenza (both or which are simple to understand, prevent and treat), all of the above apply.
Are you sickly or do you get colds more frequently than others? Respectfully, a big part of that is because you have habits that put you at risk. Common things happen commonly.

germs-on-hands

Of course this is not an actual photo, but it’s a good depiction of what’s happening. Simply put, most of the day, your hands are pretty disgusting. You handle money that’s been handed hundreds if not thousands of times and never cleaned. You grab handles and door knobs all day long. You cough and sneeze throughout the day, spewing germs into the air to be inhaled by others. And you spend time in the restroom. Your unclean hands contribute to many ailments, including colds, influenza, conjunctivitis (pink eye) and gastroenteritis (vomiting and diarrhea) and skin infections.
The important points are simple things you can do to lower your risk for infections. First, you have to stop assuming you know more than you do about basic hygiene and allow yourself to start practicing better habits. For example …

  • When you sneeze, do you sneeze into your hands or into the air around you? Please learn the habit covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough by sneezing/coughing into your elbow and not your hands.
  • How often do you wash your hands? You must wash every time you begin to cook, before you eat, after you use the rest room, before you change a diaper and before you apply any topical medicine.
  • Have you ever noticed how much you keep your hands on parts of you that can become infected by doing so? Keep your hands out of your eyes, mouth and nose, and stop picking at your skin!

handwashing2

Yes, you wash your hands, but do you do so effectively and when you need to? Hand washing must be the easiest and most effective ways to prevent disease. Let’s start with this: from now on, whatever you do to clean your hands, do it for twenty seconds. Of course, antimicrobial soap and water are what we all learned to do way back when. It works! If that’s not available, use hand sanitizers or disposable hand wipes. It that’s not available, just rinse your hands! Be sure to rub your hands vigorously during the process as if you’re trying to get someone off of your hands, because you are!

sneeze

Feel free to contact your SMA expert consultant with any questions you have on this topic.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what  http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress, Facebook @ SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.
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"I Don't Want to Goooo!"

General Health and Wellness, , , ,

shot
“I don’t want to go to see the doctor! She might give me a shot!!”
Remember that sentiment from when you were little? Well, I have good news and … other news.
The good news is that when you contact us at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com or 844-SMA-TALK, we will not, positively not, give you a shot. Promise.
More good news: You may find out–through one of the SIX easy ways we share information and advice–that you don’t need to go to the doctor after all. You can get the core of your concerns addressed immediately.
Even more good news: You will have saved yourself a bundle in co-pays, deductibles, facilities fees, transportation, wasted time, etc., just by checking in with your personal healthcare consultant.
The … other news is that we might advise you to see a doctor, and he might give you a shot.
Best news: If you take your shot like a champ, you can probably arrange for a cool bandage and a sucker (sugarless, I hope)!
bandage and sucker
Call 844-SMA-TALK (844-762-8255), or login at  www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com. We are prepared, 24/7, to give you the immediate and personalized advice and information.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress. We are also on Facebook at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

Straight, No Chaser: Late Night Shift Work and Shift Work Sleep Disorder

General Health and Wellness, Sleep, , , , ,

shift-work-sleep-disorder

I used to love to work third shift. Generally, I’d be the only “boss” around, so I really got to enjoy my staff in a way that wasn’t possible during the day shifts. The only real problem was that after two shifts, it was hard to function during the days in between shifts. After three it got harder to function during the shifts. I’d find myself fighting moodiness and catching coldsmore easily.
Well, as luck would have it, there’s a name for that pain: shift work sleep disorder (SWSD). It shouldn’t be a surprise that working nights is problematic. Night work runs counter to the body’s natural biological cycle (called the circadian rhythm), and its attempts to compensate still don’t result in ideal body function, particularly related to sleep.
What is shift work sleep disorder (SWSD)?
SWSD is the consequence of recurrent sleep interruption in a way that runs counter to our circadian rhythms. Individuals working between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. are particularly at risk for SWSD, although not everyone in this situation develops SWSD.

swsd

What are the symptoms of SWSD?
The most common symptoms of SWSD are difficulty sleeping and excessive sleepiness. Other symptoms associated with SWSD include increased irritability, moodiness, higher risk for illness, difficulty concentrating, headaches or lack of energy. Those with SWSD are more prone to have accidents and make errors at work. Additional discussion of long-term health effects of SWSD is available at www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com.

swsd1

Here are some tips to help you handle working nights and addressing SWSD.

  • Go to sleep as soon as possible after work.
  • Keep a regular sleep schedule that includes at least seven hours of sleep every day.
  • Control your home environment when you’re trying to sleep. Limit light from coming into your bedroom and keep things quiet. Discuss this with your roommates so they don’t engage in disturbing activities.
  • Understand that the effects are compounded the more nights you work in a row, as night shift workers sleep less than day workers. Decrease the number of night shifts you work in a row and try to limit shifts to five a week or four in a row.
  • Attempt to normalize your life while awake (excluding your sleep time). Engage in routine social activities when possible.
  • Avoid long commutes.
  • Avoid rotating shifts, which are even more difficult to deal with than it is to work the same shift for a longer period of time.
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine during your home time.
  • Plan a nap just before or during the night shift, if allowed. These can improve alertness.
  • Additional medical interventions are available at www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com.

Feel free to contact your SMA expert consultant with any questions you have on this topic.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what  http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress, Facebook @ SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.
Copyright © 2014 · Sterling Initiatives, LLC · Powered by WordPress

Winter Blues: Just Don't Feel Like It

General Health and Wellness, , ,

winter
DON’T SUCCUMB! GO, and work out. COOK, and don’t try to chase the blahs away with junk food. TURN UP THE MUSIC, and DANCE like spring is already here. Keep it moving! The more you do, the better you will feel.
If you really, really don’t feel like it, maybe you should call someone. Feelings can be an important health indicator, and they may be nudging us to pay a little extra attention to ourselves. Maybe it’ll pass quickly; maybe supplements would help; maybe a chat with an expert would help lift the malaise.
We are here for you 24/7 whether your feelings are mental or physical. Feel free to contact us at 844-SMA-TALK (844-762-8255) or www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com for advice or information.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress. We are also on Facebook at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

Straight, No Chaser: The Dangers of Shoveling Snow and Other Winter Chores

Cardiology/Heart, Health Prevention, Musculoskeletal System, , , ,

shovelheart-attack

You have probably heard it said, but you’d be surprised to know how often people hurt themselves shoveling snow. Of course, this time of year, people are doing many more strenuous activities than just shoveling snow. There’s walking (through mounds of snow), skiing, cross-county skiing, snow boarding, football in the cold, pushing cars that are stuck, scraping ice off the car and many other activities.
Is this really such a big deal? The important consideration is that you exert a lot of energy doing these activities. If your heart, back or overall health isn’t prepared to handle them, you can suffer debilitating consequences. Would you believe that every year over 11,000 people visit emergency rooms for back injuries related to shoveling snow?
Let’s address this in a way that is easy to understand. Shoveling snow can be even more vigorous than a full aerobic workout. It involves utilization and straining many muscles not often used by many people. It can lead to several ailments, ranging from strains and sprains to a herniated disk or a heart attack. Thus, if you’re going to do it smartly, certain rules should apply.

snow shoveling

Understand your risks. These winter activities I mentioned pose higher risks in the following groups, including an advanced rate of having a heart attack.

  • Individuals leading a sedentary lifestyle
  • Individuals having had a prior heart attack
  • Individuals with known heart disease
  • Individuals with high blood pressure or high cholesterol
  • Smokers

Here are some quick tips to lower your risk while shoveling:

  • Discuss your risk level with your doctor.
  • Wait until the snow has stopped falling.
  • Stretch and walk for a few minutes before starting. This will loosen and warm up your muscles.
  • Avoid eating, having sex, exercising or other strenuous activity for at least 30 minutes before shoveling, as your blood (and needed oxygen) will be diverted away from your heart. This is the basis of many heart attacks.
  • Avoid coffee or smoking for at least one hour before or one hour after shoveling or during breaks. These stimulants increase your heart rate and blood pressure, increasing the level of work your heart does and your heart attack risk.
  • Drink water before and after shoveling.
  • Dress warmly; cover your head, mouth and neck. Hypothermia and frostbite are serious issues.
  • Wear shoes that will prevent you from slipping and falling. Strains, sprains, and broken bones are one faulty step away in many instances.
  • Your equipment matters. Use a shovel with a bent handle. This angling will relieve the pressure on your back. Use a smaller shovel. It may take longer, but the lowered risk is worth it.
  • Push snow; try not to lift. If you have to lift, use your knees to take some pressure off your back.
  • Take your time and take breaks. If your body doesn’t feel right, stop.

Most importantly, KNOW WHEN TO STOP.
Do you know the warning signs of a heart attack? Be quick to seek medical attention if you feel out of sorts.
If you live in certain climates, winter chores are unavoidable. Arm yourself and your loved ones with these precautions. Your Sterling Medical Advice expert consultants are certainly available to answer any questions you have on this topic or when the need arises.

shovelingsmk

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Spotlight on Our Dentists

General Health and Wellness, , ,

dental questions
I’ve seen so many individuals with dental complaints in the emergency room that it begs certain questions? Do you not have access to a dentist? Are you aware of under what circumstances you should wait it out, go to the emergency room or seek out a dentist? Even when you want to see a dentist, do you know what to do?
Would you like to chat with a dentist? Have questions about what’s separating you from your beautiful smile?
Our network of over 300 experts includes dentists who are available 24/7 with immediate, personalized medical and healthcare information and advice.
Call 844-SMA-TALK (844-762-8255) or login at  www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress. We are also on Facebook at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

Straight, No Chaser: Understanding and Appropriately Stopping Thumbsucking

Dental, , , , ,

pacifiers
At first glance, you may be wondering what’s so significant about thumb sucking that we need to discuss it. And then, I show you these two pictures.
thumbsxthumb-sucking
In most instances, thumb sucking is a benign activity. It appears to stem from the sucking reflexes babies have, which are useful in breastfeeding. It is understandable how babies can transfer the level of comfort and security they find in their maternal attachment. You would think that at some point that wouldn’t be necessary, and indeed that is the case in the overwhelming majority. In those instances when that is not the case, you need to have tools at your disposal to address the situation.
As a frame of reference, thumb sucking tends to end during the toddler years for most. For most of the rest it ends when they are exposed to other children who may exert peer pressure.
As noted in the above picture, thumb sucking becomes a physical problem when a child’s permanent teeth start to come in. Thumb sucking then can affect how teeth develop and how the roof of the mouth forms.
Regarding mental considerations, children (and adults) may revert to thumb sucking behaviors when confronted with stress. In these instances the thumb sucking can take them back to a more comforting time.
The two most common questions are “When should I do something about it?” and “What can I do about it?”
In general, the time to start working with your children to move past thumb sucking is at about age four to five, if you notice dental problems or if you suspect that thumb sucking is related to anxiety and stress.
Various strategies are used to facilitate cessation of thumb sucking:

  • It appears that parental displays of anxiety are counterproductive. Children tend to respond more to positive reinforcement (rewarding good behaviors) than negative reinforcement (criticizing negative behaviors). Along those lines, experts generally recommend avoiding strategies such as placing bitter substances on the thumb.
  • Avoid rewarding the use of thumb sucking as a means to obtain attention.
  • It’s easier and more productive to address any triggers (e.g., anxiety, stressors) that promote thumb sucking than the activity itself. Substitution of the thumb with another release (e.g., a stuffed animal) may be effective.
  • If other efforts have been unsuccessful and the thumb sucking is interfering with normal development of the teeth, your dentist might recommend a dental appliance (such as a mouth guard) or a thumb guard to prohibit sucking.

thumbguardmouthguard
It is important to realize that in most instances thumb sucking will go away. It is also important for you not to display so much stress that it adds to the child’s stress or reinforces any attention-seeking behavior.
Feel free to contact your SMA expert consultant with any questions you have on this topic.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what  http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress, Facebook @ SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.
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Don't Blame the Baby

General Health and Wellness, , ,

baby workout
Sleep deprived. Busy. Haven’t primped in a month. Way off your workout regimen.
“It’s the baby’s fault!”
Nope.
That baby’s yet another opportunity for you to be constructive and work toward your health goals.
baby swinging
Notice in these picture that babies provide a perfect 10-30 lbs. of weight resistance for your favorite exercises.
baby swinging3
Also, swinging babies has been shown to produce giggles and improve brain development. But please don’t bounce your baby on her head or otherwise place her in harm’s way. We don’t advocate that!
Find your 30 minutes. It’s great for your health, and she’s watching and learning how to take care of herself.
Feel free to contact us at 844-SMA-TALK (844-762-8255) or www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com for advice or information. We are prepared, 24/7, to give you immediate and personal advice and information.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress. We are also on Facebook at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

Straight, No Chaser: About Teething and Why We Need Baby Teeth

General Health and Wellness, Pediatrics/Kids Health, Dental, , , ,

Baby-teeth_1214906c

Have you ever wondered why our design includes baby teeth (primary teeth)? It’s not like we have primary bones in our arms and legs that disintegrate in favor of stronger arms and legs. It’s not like primary teeth aren’t strengthened by calcium and couldn’t grow like young bones do.
We’ll address that shortly, but the value in discussing baby teeth is that things outside of normal occur to them. You can’t just assume that everything is ok because permanent teeth will follow. Healthy permanent teeth represent a successful stage of development, and you need to know what steps to take to ensure that healthy development. You also need to know what steps to take when things appear to be going wrong with that development.
A child’s primary teeth (aka “baby teeth”) serve very important functions. Specifically, they help children speak, chew and serve as placeholders for the permanent teeth. Primary teeth typically begin to appear when a baby is between age six and 12 months, even though they begin to develop in the womb (as do our permanent teeth).
Even though you know they’re not permanent, dental visits are important while baby teeth are in place. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that a dentist examine a child within six months after the first tooth comes in and no later than the first birthday in any circumstance. Besides checking for tooth decay, your dentist will show you how to properly clean your child’s teeth and how to evaluate any adverse habits such as thumb-sucking.
Throughout it all, good nutrition is key from pregnancy through childhood. This includes appropriate amounts of Vitamins C and D, calcium and phosphorus.

baby_cry_250

Speaking of baby teeth, everyone always asks me, “What’s the deal with teething?” Just as adults have problems with kidney stones or women have with childbirth, the passage of things through us can be painful. Infants only have a limited number of ways to respond to pain, so their symptoms are both local to the teeth and somewhat general in nature. Common symptoms with teething (the appearance of the primary teeth) include the following:

  • Anxiety, irritability, grumbling
  • Changes in eating habits
  • Difficulty in sleep
  • Increased production of saliva (spit, salivation)
  • Lack of appetite
  • Red and/or swollen (i.e., inflamed) gums

Teething is generally a benign process, and you should expect symptoms to be mild.  Fever, rashes, vomiting and diarrhea are not part of that complex and could indicate that an additional process is occurring. This warrants a visit to your pediatrician.
In order to relieve your baby from all these discomforts , you must clean his/her mouth two to three times/day with a wet gauze, towel or tissue. Try giving cold objects (look for those manufactured especially for this purpose), a cold clean cloth or a clean teething ring to bite or chew. Gently rubbing your child’s gums with a clean finger, a small, cool spoon or a wet gauze pad can be soothing, too.
If your child is still cranky and in pain, consult your dentist or physician. You certainly can contact your SMA personal healthcare consultant for any questions you may have.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what  http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress, Facebook @ SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.
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Snowed in? Yes!!

General Health and Wellness, , ,

Relaxation is just what the doctor ordered. After your lazy morning stretch,
stretch
try out that new fat reducing breakfast recipe.
cooking
Then, get into position for a long overdue cozy-up with a good book.
planking
So that you don’t feel guilty for your complete inactivity all day, spend a little time cleaning up. Check for dust bunnies,
dust bunnies
move furniture,
moving furniture
don your snow boots to shovel the walk,
snow boots
and then, for goodness sakes, sit down for minute. You’ve earned it.
have a seat
Ok, you’ve done enough for you. Time to do something for humanity! Raise that hand. Volunteer for that good cause.
volunteer
Who knew you could get so much done in one day at home.
Time for bed. Say your prayers and hit the sack. Head back to work tomorrow.
pray
Wait, before you turn in, don’t forget to call your buddy. It’s been so long since you’ve chatted. For more healthy snow day tips, call 844-SMA-TALK (844-762-8255), or login at  www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com. We are prepared, 24/7, to give you the immediate and personal advice and information.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress. We are also on Facebook at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

Straight, No Chaser: Endometriosis

General Health and Wellness, Obstetrics and Gynecology, , , , , ,

 endometriosis-2
Guys, it really is tough to be a woman. There are so many different medical conditions women have to deal with that men don’t. Many of these just don’t even make sense. Take the example of endometriosis. This is a condition that millions of women suffer from in which cells that are supposed to live and grow in the lining of the womb (uterus), migrate, implant and grow in other parts of the body. What does that mean to the woman? For starters, it means menstrual-type activity that normally occurs in the womb can occur elsewhere. That just seems cruel. In any event, here’s your what, how, why and what to do for endometriosis.
How?
If you understand that every month a woman’s menstrual period represents the shedding of cells from the inner lining of the womb lining, then you’re most of the way to understanding endometriosis. Endometriosis is the result of these shedded cells migrating, implanting and growing outside of the uterus.

endometriosis

Where?
Tissue that migrates from the womb (endometrial lining) most commonly implants onto the ovaries, bladder, intestines, rectum and pelvic lining, although other locations are possible.
Who gets it?
You’re more likely to develop endometriosis if someone in your family (e.g., mother or sister) has it, if you started your periods at a young age, if you’ve never had children, if your periods are irregular (i.e., frequent or last more than seven days at a time) of if you have a closed hymen (vaginal opening).
What happens next?
One oddity of these endometrial implants is they tend to stay affixed to their new areas in a way that didn’t occur in the womb. Because this is the tissue that is involved in menstruation, they can grow and bleed in conjunction with your menstrual cycle.
What are the symptoms?
Any, all or none of the following may occur. Endometriosis may exist without symptoms, but it’s most typically defined by pain.

  • Pain during or following sexual intercourse
  • Pain with bowel movements
  • Painful periods
  • Pelvic/low back pain at any time during the menstrual cycle
  • Premenstrual and menstrual pain and/or cramping in the lower abdomen
  • Intestines obstruction (blockage) or other abnormal functioning (rarely)

How is this figured out?
Your job is to recognize the symptoms and seek assistance. Tests may include a vaginal ultrasound and direct visualization of your pelvis via a procedure called laparoscopy, which also allows for treatment.
How is this treated?
There’s a wide range of treatment, which depends on your level of health, the presence/significance of symptoms and your desire to have children in the future.
Options range from symptomatic treatment with exercise, relaxation techniques and pain medication to hormonal medications and surgery to remove areas of the endometriosis. The options are assessed and used based on the particulars of each patient. Details of individual medical and surgical options are discussed at www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com.
What’s the end result?
The treatments mentioned are often effective in improving symptoms but not in providing a cure. A cure is most likely to occur by removal of the womb (uterus), fallopian tubes, and both ovaries (a hysterectomy/oophorectomy).
Complications of endometriosis can include infertility, but this is not universal. More commonly, pain interferes with the activities of daily living, there are large cysts in the pelvis (called endometriomas) and post-menopausal cancer presents in the affected areas.
You should get evaluated for endometriosis if a family member has endometriosis or has particularly problematic menstrual periods or if you are having difficulties becoming pregnant (especially after trying for one year).
endometlook
Feel free to ask your SMA expert consultant any questions you have on this topic.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what  http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress, Facebook @ SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.
Copyright © 2014 · Sterling Initiatives, LLC · Powered by WordPress

Snow can improve your health

General Health and Wellness, , ,

food
Trick your family (and yourself). Stock up on foods that increase your health outcomes and let the junk food run out just in time for inclement weather. (Groundhog said it’s not over.) Take advantage of being snowed in and cook rather than swinging by a fast food joint … and pass on ordering in. On average, cooking at home is much healthier than eating out. Use this time to retrain those taste buds. It might not take as long as you think, and the benefits will stretch across your lifetime.
Note that your kids may also need a bit of adjustment. Try a new vegetable. They might surprise you by liking roasted or grilled brussell sprouts (those cute little cabbages) or stewed (not fried) okra. Chop up fruit for snacks. Put out nuts in a bowl. Hide or toss the sugary snacks and desserts, and find healthy substitutes.
Our nutritionists can help. Feel free to contact us at 844-SMA-TALK (844-762-8255) or www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com for advice or information. We are prepared, 24/7, to give you the immediate and personal advice and information.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress. We are also on Facebook at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

Straight, No Chaser: Go Eat Rocks? Discussing Pica

Diet and Nutrition, General Health and Wellness, , , , , , , , ,

pica
What the what? Pica is a pattern of eating non-food materials. This pattern must be present for at least a month to make the diagnosis. Pica is not a single incidence of a foreign body ingestion. It is not the activity of infants exploring their universe. It is an intentional and repeated effort to consume certain substances not associated with human nutrition.
Who does this?

  • Pica can be seen in any age group, although it is more frequently seen in younger children.
  • Estimates suggest that up to a third of children below age six engage in this activity.
  • Pica is also seen disproportionately during pregnancy.

Why would anyone do this?
Some individuals can’t overcome cravings or the desire to feel a certain texture in their mouth. These cravings may result from nutritional deficiencies such as iron or zinc.
What type of things are people with pica eating?
Common substances include the following:

  • Clay or dirt
  • Feces
  • Hairballs
  • Ice
  • Paint or paint chips
  • Rocks
  • Sand

What’s done about this?
The approach should include three considerations: addressing the underlying cause, addressing the consequences of the ingestion and eliminating the desire to continue the activity.

  • Addressing the underlying cause: When pica occurs in malnourished individuals, iron and/or zinc replacement (preferably through improving regular nutrition) is important.
  • Addressing the consequences of the ingestion: Lead poisoning may occur if certain types of paint/paint chips are ingested. Infection may occur if soil, feces or other contaminants are eaten. These are serious considerations and must be addressed.
  • Elimination of the desire to continue the activity: Family education, proper nutrition, positive reinforcement for good behaviors and negative reinforcement (such as aversion therapy) for destructive behaviors are possible components of therapy. Additional medications to modify behavior may also be needed.

What happens as a result of this?
It stands to reason that either a positive or negative outcome could occur. The disorder can disappear on its own, particularly if it’s simply associated with nutritional deficiencies that are addressed.
Pica can be long-lasting and destructive if associated with developmental disorders and undiscovered. It may also be especially dangerous if the substance ingested is toxic (e.g., lead poisoning via paint chips). In these instances it may be discovered as part of an illness presenting and resulting from the abnormal ingestions.
Complications can include infection, intestinal obstruction, lead poisoning, malnutrition and a mass of indigestible material can become trapped in the stomach or intestines (known as a bezoar) The appearance of a hairball is shown on the X-ray below.

bezoar

What am I supposed to do about this?

That should be the easy part. If and when you notice anyone ingesting something abnormal on just one occasion, you should seek medical attention.

Feel free to ask your SMA expert consultant any questions you have on this topic.

Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what  http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress, Facebook @ SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

Copyright © 2014 · Sterling Initiatives, LLC · Powered by WordPress

Game Ready!

General Health and Wellness, , ,

20-minute-workout
If you’re watching the game from home … or if you don’t care what you look like in the sports bar, join in with all that physical activity. Move your body!
When you do simple exercises at home, you benefit. These healthy building blocks count. Do them with vigor until you can get to the gym.
Did you know your SMA personal healthcare consultants include personal trainers? We’re ready to help you improve your health in most any circumstance.
Feel free to contact us at 844-SMA-TALK (844-762-8255) or www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com for advice or information. We are prepared, 24/7, to give you the immediate and personal advice and information you need.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress. We are also on Facebook at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

Straight, No Chaser: Total Knee Replacement Surgery

Orthopedics/Bones, Sports Medicine, , , , ,

TKR1

When you’re watching the big game, it’s likely you’re watching a group that includes someone who may require joint replacement surgery over the course of his life.
Can you believe that over half of a million total knee replacement (TKR) surgeries are performed a year?
As we age or experience knee injury, the progression of limitations on us imposed by arthritis and other diseases of the knee-joint can become too much to bear. Persistent pain and limited range of motion can make each step an exercise in physical and mental agony.
Risks for TKR include having osteoarthritis, infection, obesity, being younger than 55 years old and being male.

TKR2

TKR involves removal of damaged bone and other tissue (e.g., cartilage) from the knee joint and creation and placement of a new joint (a prosthesis) made of plastic and/or metal. Most TKRs are successful, with approximately 90 percent of patients experiencing rapid and signficant pain reduction and improved joint function.
Of course, many of you have heard about complications of joint replacement surgeries, and TKR also comes with risks. Scarring, blood clots and infections may occur, but in the hands of a competent orthopedic surgeon, these risks pale in comparison to the benefits that the otherwise healthy individual will receive. Recovery involves a brief post-surgery hospitalization, followed by treatment in a rehabilitation facility and a couple of months of physical therapy (PT).
PT is especially important, because with it you’re setting your future bar. You need to work to whatever limits you want to reach, and you need to get started right away. Once the knee stiffens post-surgery, you won’t be able to get back what you’ve lost. Your post-surgery life and use of your knee will be a direct result of how hard and how much you work that knee during rehabilitation.
Recovery involves mental and physical considerations. Physically, you’re likely not going to be engaged in high-impact sports anymore (or even running for that matter, although this is a case-by-case consideration) because of the risks of loosening the prosthesis and requiring revision surgery. Riding a bike and other activities involving flexibility will be possible.
Mentally, TKR is not a fountain of youth, and you have to wrap your brain around that fact. You must define quality of life through the loss of pain and improved mobility.

TKR

Prosthesis are expected to last at least 15-20 years, and that level of longevity should give you a new lease on life. If you find yourself or your loved ones in severe pain from arthritis or other knee pain, ask your physician what circumstances may lead to the need for a TKR. You can certainly discuss the matter further with your SMA expert consultant.
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Happy New Month!

General Health and Wellness, , ,

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Welcome to February!
Remember that it’s best to mark health improvements in small increments? Well, let’s call February the next increment–phase 2– of your New Year’s resolution. Time to go to the next gear. Don’t fade now. Imagine how you’ll look and feel this time next year.
Feel free to contact us at 844-SMA-TALK (844-762-8255) or www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com for advice or information. We are prepared, 24/7, to give you the immediate and personal advice and information you need.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress. We are also on Facebook at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

Straight, No Chaser: Avoiding Sports Injuries

Sports Medicine, Musculoskeletal System, , , ,

sportsinjuriesfootballhelmets

Tomorrow is Super Bowl Sunday, a de facto American sports holiday! Last year, over 111 million Americans watched this exhibition of athleticism and violence. In fact, the last four Super Bowls have been the four most watched television programs in the United States. In other words, it’s way beyond popular. Maybe you’ll be tossing a pigskin around today with friends and family. Maybe you’ll play a game before the big game. If so, you should know what you (and they) are up against.
Athletes are at risk for injuries for different reasons than weekend warriors. Although accidents happen to everyone, poor conditioning and training, propensities not to stretch or warm up, relatively poorer playing conditions, and use of inferior equipment (or lack of use of any at all) make your adventures a little more risky. Straight, No Chaser has reviewed many common sports injuries. Links to some are listed below, and others you can read up on just by typing what you’re looking for into the search box on the right.
The most common sports injuries include the following conditions.

Of course, the most common aren’t all the rage. Everyone’s concerned about concussions. Here’s a Straight, No Chaser review of concussions.
The weekend warrior is too often engaged in a testosterone fest and doesn’t listen to his body. If you get hurt, stop. If you don’t listen to your body, someone more serious could be on the verge of happening.

sports-injuries soccer

Here are some tips to help you avoid sports injuries.

  • Always warm up, regardless of the sport. It’s especially helpful to stretch the Achilles tendon, hamstring and quadriceps areas and hold the positions without a bouncing motion.
  • Avoid bending knees past 90 degrees.
  • Avoid twisting knees. This is best done by keeping your feet as flat as possible during stretches and running.
  • If you’re jumping, land with your knees bent.
  • Cool down following vigorous sports. You want your heart rate to come down gradually.
  • Wear properly fitting shoes. You can avoid stress fractures and sprains by wearing shoes that provide shock absorption and stability.
  • Avoid running on hard surfaces like asphalt and concrete. It’s preferable to run on softer, flat surfaces. Appreciate that running uphill may increase the stress on the Achilles tendon and the leg itself.
  • Know when to stop.

We’ve discussed the RICE method of treating strains and sprains in the past. Make a habit of this for even minor ankle, knee, wrist, elbow and shoulder sprains. It helps with pain and swelling, and it also speeds recovery.
Whether you’re enjoying the Big Game or just your game, it’s good to know what you’re looking to avoid. Don’t let a sports injury sneak up behind you. If you are in need of information or advice, contact your personal healthcare consultants at 844-SMA-TALK or www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com. Have a great day, and enjoy the game.

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Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what  http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress, Facebook @ SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.
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Want to Raise Your Health IQ? Try Sterling Medical Wellness

General Health and Wellness, , , ,

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One of the stars of our suite of services at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com is Sterling Medical Wellness. It is a self-administered health curriculum that helps you assess risk factors in your body, environment, or family history. You are then provided information and advice about areas where you can improve or maintain your health.
Many corporations (approximately half in the U.S.) engage wellness programs, knowing that healthy employees and healthy workplaces lead to better mental and physical health, improved quality of life and higher productivity. It’s a win-win: good for health; good for the bottom line.
Are you looking for a quality Wellness program for your business/organization? Visit us (or have your company’s employee assistance program official visit us) at www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com, and schedule a free consultation with a member of our business support team.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress. We are also on Facebook at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

Straight, No Chaser: About Uterine Fibroids

Obstetrics and Gynecology, , , , , , , , ,

fibroids

We’ve spent quite a bit of time lately on conditions involving abnormalities of male and female sex hormones. We do so again today in discussing fibroids (aka fibroid tumors, leiomyomas, fibromyomas and myomas). Fibroids are noncancerous growths on the female uterus (the womb). Fibroids are extremely common. In fact, by age 50 approximately half of women will have fibroids. On the other hand, they appear to be rare under age 20. This is a condition that is most prominent during the childbearing years.

fibroidsbig

Fibroids seem to run the gamut in size, clinical signs and symptoms. Although the cause isn’t known, its effects are related to estrogen production. Here are some interesting facts about fibroids you should know.

  • If a fibroid is present, it will likely continue to grow during the childbearing years and is likely to shrink after menopause (due to the relative presence of estrogen in the former circumstance and the relative lack of estrogen in the latter).
  • Women tend to have multiple fibroids if and when they occur.
  • Fibroids can range in size from too small to see with the naked eye to several pounds in size, causing obstruction in the pelvis.
  • Fibroids are more common in African-Americans.
  • During pregnancy, fibroids may grow significantly due to increasing estrogen levels. They may return to their previous size once childbirth has occurred.

Regarding symptoms, fibroids may be present without symptoms or may make a woman’s life unbearable. Any of the following symptoms may be present.

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
  • Longer than normal menstrual periods
  • Bleeding between menstrual periods
  • Stronger than normal pain or cramping during menstrual periods
  • Ongoing sensation of fullness in the pelvis
  • Frequent desire to urinate
  • Pain during sexual intercourse

If this complex of symptoms begins to become substantial, your physician will likely order an ultrasound, which can identify the fibroids. These ultrasounds also help to monitor the growth and possible interference or obstruction of fibroids within the uterine cavity.
Much of the management of fibroids depends on the severity of symptoms and the presence of any complications. Often nothing more than monitoring growth, treatment of pain and supplementation of iron for significant losses of blood and anemia is required. In more severe cases, other options are available, including the following:

  • If you have particular difficulties with abnormal bleeding (heavy or irregular periods), you may be prescribed birth control pills.
  • Short-term hormonal therapy may be given via injection to shrink the fibroids.
  • IUDs (intrauterine devices) that release the hormone progestin may reduce pain and heavy bleeding.
  • There are several surgical procedures that treat fibroids, including removal of the fibroids, stopping the blood supply to the fibroids and, in severe cases, removal of the uterus (hysterectomy).

All of these options are serious endeavors. Factors such as your general health and your desire to have children in the future must be considered.

fibroid sites

Complications of fibroids are significant enough to warrant discussion. They including the following:

  • Excessive bleeding may cause anemia (low red blood cell count).
  • Excessive bleeding or severe pain may necessitate emergency surgery.
  • Fibroids may twist, causing a blockage in blood vessels. This occurrence may make surgery necessary.
  • Fibroids may block the bladder, leading to frequent UTIs (urinary tract infections) due to incomplete emptying of urine from the bladder.
  • Rarely, fibroids may cause infertility.
  • Rarely, in pregnant women fibroids may cramp the space of the womb. This can result in premature birth or the need for a C-section.
  • Rarely, fibroids may undergo cancerous changes. These complicated fibroids are called leiomyosarcomas.

Many women who have abnormal menstrual periods, including heavy bleeding, pain, cramping, fullness of the uterine area and bleeding between periods are found to have fibroids. If you have these symptoms, and they’re causing significant distress, contact your physician. You certainly can contact your SMA personal healthcare consultant with any questions you have at www.sterlingmedicaladvice.com or 844-SMA-TALK (844-762-8255).
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what  http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress, Facebook @ SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.
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General Health and Wellness, , ,

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You’ve heard about us. Now go experience the difference. We’ve provided you access to physicians, dentals, pharmacists, nutritionists and mental health professionals in a way that’s way more convenient and way less expensive than an emergency room visit.
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You may also contact us immediately at 844-SMA-TALK (844-762-8255). We’re standing by to assist you.
Thanks for liking and following Straight, No Chaser! This public service provides a sample of what http://www.SterlingMedicalAdvice.com (SMA) offers. Please share our page with your friends on WordPress. We are also on Facebook at SterlingMedicalAdvice.com and Twitter at @asksterlingmd.

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