December 2021

Varicose veins remain a major vein disease that has both physiological and psychological effects. The large and swollen superficial veins pose threats to your health if not checked. Dennis E Resetarits, MD, a Camillus, NY vascular surgeon, stresses early intervention for varicose veins. Varicose veins can affect anyone; however, some lifestyle and medical factors put you at a higher risk of developing varicose veins.

Risk Factors to Watch Out For:

1. Age

Most people who develop varicose veins develop them between 40 and 80 years of age. It is no surprise that varicose veins are more prevalent amongst the senior population. As you age, your body weakens, including your veins and valves. The weakened valves prevent blood from recirculating to the body and cause pooling which manifests as varicose veins.

2. Gender

While everyone can contract varicose veins, prevalence rates are higher in women than men. The current thinking is that hormone changes during menstruation and menopause weaken the blood vessels. Also, hormonal therapies increase the likelihood of women developing varicose veins. Always ensure you consult your obstetrician or gynecologist to understand whether a specific hormone treatment puts you at risk of developing varicose veins.

3. Inactivity

Prolonged standing or sitting puts pressure on the lower legs, and over time, the prolonged pressure can cause weakened vein walls. Damaged vein walls disrupt normal blood flow. Varicose veins commonly develop on the lower leg due to considerable amounts of pressure on the legs’ veins.

4. Obesity

Excess body weight exerts pressure on veins in the leg. The unsustainable pressure constricts blood flow in the veins, and varicose veins form as a result. Obesity is also associated with low metabolism, which may cause cholesterol buildup in the veins, causing numerous vein diseases including varicose veins.

5. Pregnancy

A growing fetus in your womb exerts additional pressure on the veins of the leg. Increased weight strains the blood valves so that they don’t function normally. Also, as there is hormone fluctuation during the later stages of the pregnancy, the blood vessels weaken. It is no surprise that varicose veins develop in pregnant women during the last trimester when maximum pressure is on the legs.

6. History of Blood Clots

If you have a history of blood clots, you may probably develop varicose veins in the future. Past clots may have damaged your veins; hence, blood pools may develop in your veins when there is blood circulation disruption. If you have a medical history of deep vein thrombosis, then schedule regular checkups for varicose veins.

When to seek treatment

Signs of varicose veins include swollen veins, discolored superficial veins, and tender red patches. If you notice any of these signs, then you should schedule an appointment with a vascular center. The majority of vein diseases progress from primary vein disease. Varicose veins sometimes cause a fatal pulmonary embolism. Early intervention is essential to ensure good health. You should not self-diagnose yourself based on a few symptoms–instead, visit a qualified vascular surgeon.

Where to Seek Treatment

Accurate diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing further complications of varicose veins. Renowned vascular centers offer the best services. Schedule an appointment at Surgical Care East, PLLC, for a correct diagnosis and tailored varicose veins remedies.

The decision of where to go for primary care can be difficult. Many factors need consideration when making this choice, and it is crucial to keep the physician and the treatment options in mind. When looking for a primary care center for the first time, you may wonder which path to follow. Visiting a top-notch facility assures you of quality services. The team at Stone Mountain Oasis Healthcare Service, Inc. elaborates what primary care entails. The following article will discuss what you should consider before choosing a primary care facility.

How Diverse are the Services?

Health conditions are different for everyone, and the same is valid for treatments. Before choosing a primary care facility, you need to determine what services they offer. Do they have the specific treatment you require? Some people will need other facilities or specialists to get their condition treated. So knowing which service your chosen center provides ensures that you are aware of all available options should specific emergencies arise.

What Are Their Hours?

When making an appointment with a new doctor, it’s best to make it towards the end of the day so that you won’t have any hassles finding another ride if something happens that causes you to miss work. Thus, when visiting various primary care centers, find out their hours before deciding which one to choose. You can find such information from their official websites.

The Affordability Aspect

Knowing how much your treatment will cost beforehand will help you decide which center has the most reasonable rates. Thus, it would help to ask about their price list before making an appointment or choosing them as your primary care facility. You’ll be surprised by how low some centers charge for their primary care visits. A pocket-friendly service, however, ought to by all ways display high quality as this matters a lot to your contentment.

The Clinic’s Location

When looking for a primary care facility, it is crucial to consider your situation and the services offered by various clinics. You can’t go anywhere if you don’t have a vehicle, and each clinic will be located in different areas of town. So choose one that is conveniently near your home or workplace. However, check if they offer emergency assistance after hours, make sure their location is accessible for such emergencies. All these factors are key in choosing which primary care facility you need, our center.

What Are Their Reputations?

A doctor can be very skilled in medicine but not necessarily capable of giving quality service. When choosing a primary care facility, make sure they offer excellent customer service and efficient services by asking friends and family for recommendations. Also, check online reviews for honest opinions on various doctors and facilities to determine if they’re worth your time and money.

Choosing a primary care facility is no easy task. While many factors need consideration, it’s vital to consider the physician and the treatment options available at that clinic. When looking for a new primary care center, you should first determine what services they provide and consider affordability and location.

If you are there wondering when to take your child for their first orthodontist appointment, well, the earlier, the better. Having their teeth issues corrected at an early age while their body is still developing is the best thing you can do. It is easy to treat and recover.

Learn more about children’s orthodontics in Brooklyn at Brooklyn Heights Orthodontics. Their services are top standard and child friendly. Check them out today by calling to book your consultation.

What are children’s orthodontics?

Orthodontics for children involves treatments to correct and repair their jaw and teeth before they fully develop. Early orthodontic treatments are beneficial and successful, usually with few complications.

Dr. Liebman at Brooklyn Heights Orthodontics uses orthodontic treatments to guide the natural growth of your kid’s mouth. Through the orthodontic treatments, the child orthodontist rectifies the child’s teeth issues such as open bite.

When is the right time to start children’s orthodontic treatments?

According to the American Academy of Orthodontics, taking your child for their first orthodontic treatment from age six or seven is advisable. The specialists recommend the early age because it provides the best opportunity to correct the teeth issues while their tissues are still growing.

However, it is not necessary for your child to have the treatment on your first consultation. Usually, most children still have their baby teeth then, hence it’s more suitable to start the orthodontic treatment between nine and 16 years.

After the first consultation, your provider will develop an ideal treatment plan and the right timing to go ahead with the treatment.

What orthodontic treatments for children are available?

There are many orthodontic treatments for children. It is critical to get the treatments from a specialized orthodontist. Dr. Liebman at Brooklyn Heights Orthodontics has proper certifications and can help you with the right treatments for your child.

Here are among the treatments you can receive under her care:

Invisalign First

It involves a system of clear aligners for your child. The custom-designed aligners are for children with some baby teeth that require a wider arch. These aligners are easier for children to handle compared to braces.

They are comfortable while eating; hence you do not need to limit your child’s diet as they straighten their teeth.

Metal braces

Metal braces help children pull their teeth in a straighter position. These braces are available at Brooklyn Heights Orthodontics, including ceramic braces.

Habit-breaking appliances

The habit-breaking appliances help children stop habits such as thumb or finger-sucking. The treatment completes when the habit ends.

Palate expanders

Palate expanders are devices that help fix your child’s crossbite by widening the roof of the mouth.

Headgear

Headgear helps push children’s front teeth back. Usually, your provider will recommend your child wear it at night while sleeping.

Consult a children’s orthodontist today.

Early orthodontic treatment for children is appropriate, as it’s the development time. Hence it makes the treatment easy and less complicated. Contact Brooklyn Heights Orthodontics to book your child’s first orthodontic consultation.

Over 12% of Americans suffer from thyroid issues at some time in their lives. If you are experiencing symptoms such as chronic fatigue, unexpected weight loss, or weight gain, Juan Carlos Zubieta, MD, MPH, and the North Houston Diabetes Institute staff in Humble, Texas, can help. They offer comprehensive thyroid disorder diagnosis and treatment to alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life. For exceptional Humble thyroid disorder care, call the office or use the online booking feature to request an appointment online right away.

What Exactly Are Thyroid Disorders?

A thyroid disease is an issue with your thyroid gland, which is a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that produces hormones to regulate your metabolism. Typical thyroid problems include:

•         Hyperthyroidism: excessive thyroid hormone generation
•         Hypothyroidism: insufficient thyroid hormone generation
•         Thyroid nodules: lumps in the thyroid gland
•         Thyroiditis: inflammation of the thyroid gland
•         Goiter: thyroid gland overgrowth
•         Thyroid carcinoma: a type of cancer that affects the thyroid gland

The North Houston Diabetes Institute staff examines you for thyroid disorders and then assists you in effectively managing the thyroid issue to alleviate symptoms and avoid complications.

What Are the Factors that Put You At Risk for Thyroid Problems?

Thyroid disorders can affect everyone, but certain variables increase your likelihood of developing one. These include:

•         Personal or familial history of thyroid problems
•         Suffering type 1 diabetes or anemia
•         Having had radiotherapy or thyroid surgery in the past
•         Being a woman

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders?

The following are some of the most prevalent thyroid disorder indications and symptoms to be aware of:

•         Lumps on the thyroid gland
•         Thyroid gland enlargement
•         Frequent bowel movements or constipation
•         Sensitivity to heat or cold
•         Gaining or losing weight
•         Joint discomfort
•         Muscle deterioration
•         Hair and skin that is pale or dry
•         Irritability, fatigue, or sadness
•         Sleep difficulties
•         Variations in women’s menstrual cycles
•         Abnormal heart rhythm

Thyroid issues are more frequent in women, impacting one out of every eight women at some point in their life.

How to Diagnose Thyroid Disorders?

Your North Houston Diabetes Institute physician examines your symptoms and inquires about your health history to determine if you have a thyroid issue.

They perform a physical exam and employ blood tests, ultrasound, other imaging tests, or a biopsy to identify thyroid disorders and design a care plan. Thyroid problems and autoimmune illnesses frequently occur together.

What Are the Treatment Options for Thyroid Disorders?

Your thyroid disorder treatment is unique to you and is determined by your specific condition and its seriousness. Your provider might suggest:

•         Medications
•         Radioiodine therapy
•         Supplements for the diet
•         Lifestyle and diet changes

If you show symptoms of thyroid cancer, your doctor might recommend thyroid surgery.

Do not put up with an unresolved thyroid condition and its consequences when remedies are available at North Houston Diabetes Institute. Dr. Zubeita and his staff employ an individualized approach to patient care, developing a customized care plan that addresses your unique needs and care goals. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or request online to access their care.

It is common for patients to experience neuropathic pain at some point in life. Nerve pain can be unresponsive to treatment. If you experience ongoing nerve pain and are considering treatment, a pain management specialist in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Neal Taub, can help. With ketamine procedures and combined IV treatments, your provider can guarantee symptom relief and ensure you resume your regular activities. Call Charlotte Ketamine Center or book online to explore your recovery options today.

What is Neuropathic Pain?

Neuropathic pain often results from nerve injury. It is frequently a persistent pain condition that lasts at least three months. This pain can feel like electric jolts, and you may also experience tingling pins-and-needles sensations. Your pain may disturb your sleep or prevent you from participating in your normal routines.

Evoked pain, such as discomfort from frigid temperatures or even the gentlest of touches, can also be induced by neuropathic pain.

Causes of Neuropathic Pain

There are numerous causes of neuropathic pain. For instance, if you survive an accident, it may create long-term nerve damage, resulting in chronic pain that may linger for years after your initial wound heals. Additionally, surgery might result in nerve injury.

Diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and multiple myeloma can all cause nerve discomfort. Infections such as shingles, syphilis, and HIV can also lead to nerve pain.

Neuropathic Pain Diagnosis

Your medical background is taken, and a physical exam will be performed by your healthcare professional. If your provider is aware of or suspects that you have nerve damage, they will identify the typical neuropathic pain signs. Your physician will then attempt to identify the underlying cause of your neuropathy and track the symptoms.

Treatment of Neuropathic Pain

Ketamine infusions, combined ketamine, and lidocaine treatments are accessible at the Charlotte Ketamine Center to help with nerve pain. After just three treatments, several of their patients have reported great pain relief.

All ketamine procedures are carried out under the watchful supervision of a member of the clinical staff. Floating sensations, tingling, and slight hallucinations are common side effects.  Some patients describe feeling cozy and asleep throughout their infusions. Any side effects should go away shortly after your infusion is complete.

After your infusion, you should stay at Charlotte Ketamine Center for a while until all adverse effects have gone. Because the therapy will make you tired and disoriented, you will need a friend or family member to accompany you home. After a good night’s sleep, you should feel awesome.

How Can I Tell if Ketamine Therapy is Ideal for Me?

Ketamine infusions are an option at Charlotte Ketamine Center for those who have tried other treatments for neuropathic pain but have not found help. They conduct extensive examinations and consultations to verify that ketamine infusion therapy is safe and likely to relieve symptoms.

If you suffer from high blood pressure, another vascular health condition, or a history of substance abuse, Charlotte Ketamine Center might suggest a different therapy.

Call or book an appointment online with Charlotte Ketamine Center today to learn more about ketamine infusion therapy and how it can help with acute neuropathic pain.

If a person ever suffers from tendinitis, joint pain, or any other musculoskeletal pain, then Oakhurst joint injections can offer relief that may last for several weeks. There are several Sports medicine specialists available at Kai Sports Medicine Oakhurst, NJ.

What Are Joint Injections?

You can use a joint injection to reduce inflammation and also provide relief to pain by delivering medication directly to any swollen and sore joint. Cortisone shots and prolotherapy are two of the most popular types of joint injections offered by doctors of Kai Sports Medicine Oakhurst.

A little dose of corticosteroids, such as cortisone, or any local anesthetic, or mixture of both, may be used in the injection.

• Cortisone Shot

You must understand that cortisone is a steroid that occurs naturally in the body and has potent anti-inflammatory actions. Controlling inflammation, which is linked to the majority of joint pain, helps in the reduction or elimination of pain.

Although cortisone can be taken orally, injecting it directly into the sore location is faster and more effective.

• Prolotherapy

Cortisone is considered a naturally occurring steroid that has significant anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation, which is connected to the majority of joint pain, can be reduced or eliminated by controlling it.

Although cortisone can be taken orally, it is faster and will be more effective to inject it directly into the sore.

Benefits of Joint Injections

By undergoing joint injections, you can get more than a single benefit.

Injections will help your doctor in deciding the actual source of your discomfort as a diagnostic technique. Your damaged body part will be correctly identified if a joint injection can successfully relieve symptoms.

However, if the injection fails to alleviate the symptoms, then another source of joint discomfort must be investigated. This procedure can help in obtaining a precise diagnosis and can eliminate the need for any additional testing.

Generally, joint injections can also be utilized for alleviating discomfort. Injections can reduce inflammation temporarily and relieve your discomfort associated with any inflamed joint when it is used as a therapeutic treatment.

Therapeutic joint injections are considered a minimally invasive procedure that can deliver direct treatment to your afflicted location, providing localized relief with very little to no side effects.

Generally, joint injections are frequently advised for pain that never responds to more conservative treatments, e.g. anti-inflammatory medications, or for patients who want long-term relief. Usually, a peripheral intra-articular injection provides pain relief for 2 to 6 months.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament or ACL is a minor repair or reconstruction surgery. The ACL is a crucial soft tissue that connects the femur in the knee to the tibia. Athletes experience a completely or partially torn ACL, which needs a less invasive surgery. Dr. Ronald Hess in West Chester is an orthopedic surgeon and ACL, reconstruction specialist.

How to Identify If ACL Surgery Is Needed?

Surgery decisions will depend on the ACL tear severity and the patient’s lifestyle. A completely torn ACL will not recover on its own, while partial ACL damage can recover without surgery.

To identify if the ACL tear is partial or complete the orthopedic surgeon in West Chester performs a couple of manual tests:

• Lachman test- The shin bone is tried to pull away from the thigh bone. The bones will not move at all or only a little if the ACL is partially torn.
• Pivot shift test- The patient is made to lie on his back. The surgeon lifts his legs and puts rotational pressure on his knee. In the case of the bone shifts, this test is positive.

Patients with partial tears are recommended to wait and see if the ligament heals on its own. In terms of lifestyle, if the athlete with complete ACL tears desires to maintain an active lifestyle will need surgery. Some old patients or those whose lifestyle is not associated with vigorous exercise will be recommended a non-surgical treatment plan. Such patients must never attempt rigorous exercise because with complete ACL tear they can tear meniscus [cartilage pad] causing swelling and knee pain. It increases their chances of developing knee osteoarthritis down the road.

How Soon to Get ACL Surgery?

ACL reconstruction surgery is scheduled after 5 to 6 weeks of injury. The proper time is based on:

• Other injuries that need initial treatment.
• The physical appearance of the knee.
• Patient’s pain level.
• Patient’s motion range and muscle control quality while bending or straightening the leg.

ACL Reconstruction Surgery Steps

• A small incision is made around the knee joint.
• The arthroscope is introduced inside the portal and saline solution is delivered for space expansion around the knee joint.
• The arthroscopic camera is inserted and the structure is evaluated on the monitor outside.
• If the doctor identifies lesions on soft tissues – meniscus & articular cartilage, it is fixed.
• Graft harvested from another body part of the patient is attached to bone plugs at each end. The graft gets its support from the plugs, which transforms into a new ACL.
• The new ACL is inserted inside the tibia and femur using a flexible guidewire.
• The bone plug is secured using screws. These plugs grow into surrounding bone over time.
• The surgical device is removed and the procedure is concluded.

It generally takes 6 to 9 months for a total recovery of ACT reconstruction surgery!