RSS Feedhttps:// RSS Feeden{A44B0081-1B1E-4818-B129-6CC33BA3CAD5} Prolapse A Hidden Problem That Affects Millions of Women<p>Pelvic organ prolapse is an uncomfortable condition that affects one in three women, but it&rsquo;s a hidden problem many people aren&rsquo;t comfortable talking about. It happens when any organ in the pelvic area such as the bladder or uterus <a href="">pushes against the vaginal wall</a>. It&rsquo;s like a hernia in the vagina. </p> <p>In the United States, about <a href="">3.3 million women</a> suffer from pelvic organ prolapse.</p> <p>Many women with pelvic prolapse feel they&rsquo;re alone, since it&rsquo;s not often talked about. While the condition isn&rsquo;t life-threatening, it can keep a woman from enjoying her life, especially if she&rsquo;s living an active lifestyle. Many women I&rsquo;ve treated tell me they wish they&rsquo;d come sooner because they didn&rsquo;t realize how much their prolapse affected their quality of life until it was healed.</p> <h2>Pelvic Prolapse: Causes and Risk Factors</h2> <p>Any condition or activity that <a href="">weakens the pelvic and supportive tissues</a> is a potential cause of pelvic organ prolapse.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Childbirth</strong> - Vaginal childbirth, especially of large-weight babies, can stretch the pelvic floor muscles and tissues. Vaginal childbirth is the single largest risk factor for many women who develop prolapse.</li> <li><strong>Obesity</strong> - Obesity, which is a major risk factor for many diseases, also increases a woman&rsquo;s risk of developing pelvic organ prolapse.</li> <li><strong>Aging</strong> - Pelvic prolapse is common among aging women, although it&rsquo;s not part of the normal aging process. Many women experience prolapse symptoms around menopause.</li> </ul> <h3>Symptoms</h3> <p>The <a href="">signs and symptoms</a> of pelvic prolapse vary depending on the type of prolapse. But generally, most women with pelvic prolapse will notice pressure in the pelvis or vagina or a lump at the vaginal opening. Bladder and bowel symptoms are also common in pelvic prolapse.</p> <h3>When to See a Doctor</h3> <p>Urogynecologists are specialists in the care of women with pelvic floor disorders like prolapse and urinary incontinence. We have specialized training both in surgeries such as hysterectomy and prolapse repairs as well as non-surgical remedies that can help women with these symptoms. </p>Wed, 29 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0600{4CB11548-49F4-414E-BEA0-D6F31F9C7FE7} Infertility: Reasons to be Evaluated<p>Male infertility is the sole cause of about 20 percent of infertile couples, but is a contributing factor in another 30 percent of couples.</p> <p>Male infertility is usually diagnosed by finding abnormal semen during testing. But, other issues can cause infertility, even when the man has normal semen.</p> <p>Infertility should be evaluated by a urologist who specializes in male reproductive health. Some causes of male infertility can be diagnosed and reversed (or improved) with surgery or medicines. Other causes can be diagnosed but not reversed. Rarely, the cause of infertility or an abnormal semen analysis is unknown.</p> <h2>A male infertility evaluation can identify:</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Reversible causes </strong>of male infertility and possible treatment. The goal of treatment will be to allow the couple to conceive through intercourse, or using as little technology as possible. </li> <li><strong>Irreversible causes</strong> that may respond to treatment with assisted reproductive technology using the man&rsquo;s sperm in combination with a women&rsquo;s specialist. </li> <li><strong>Treatable diseases</strong> that may be causing infertility. </li> <li><strong>Genetic causes</strong> of infertility. Irreversible conditions where the man&rsquo;s sperm cannot be retrieved. These couples may want to think about using donated sperm or adopting a child. </li> </ul> <h3>What to expect during a male infertility evaluation</h3> <p>An infertility evaluation will start with a complete reproductive, medical and surgical history. The doctor will ask about your sexual health and history, past illnesses, fertility treatments, surgeries or testicular exposure to heat, radiation and chemicals. </p> <p>During the physical exam, a doctor will assess the build, hair distribution, breast development and external genitalia of the patient. The doctor will pay special attention to the size and consistency of testicles and the structures inside the spermatic cord (the series of long tubes that connect the testicles to the body). </p> <h3>Semen Analysis</h3> <p>A semen analysis test is the most important way to evaluate a man&rsquo;s infertility. For this test, the patient will collect a sample of his semen to be analyzed at a laboratory. Semen samples can vary greatly, so most doctors will want at least two semen analyses before making a diagnosis. </p> <h3>The semen analysis will include:</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Ejaculate volume</strong> - how much fluid is in the sample</li> <li><strong>Sperm concentration</strong> - how many sperm are in the sample </li> <li><strong>Sperm motility</strong> - how well the sperm can move</li> <li><strong>Sperm morphology</strong> - the shape of the sperm </li> </ul> <h3>Ideal Results for a Semen Analysis </h3> <p>According to standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO), the ideal semen analysis results include: </p> <ul> <li><strong>Ejaculate volume:</strong> 1.5 to 5.0 mL </li> <li><strong>Sperm Concentration:</strong> More than 15 million/mL </li> <li><strong>Sperm Motility:</strong> More than 45% motile </li> <li><strong>Total Motile Sperm Count:</strong> More than 20 million </li> <li><strong>Sperm Morphology:</strong> More than 5% normal (using the Kruger Strict system, which rates how likely it is that sperm can fertilize an egg) </li> <li><strong>Leukocytes</strong> (white blood cells) to look for infection or inflammation </li> <li><strong>Anti-sperm antibodies</strong>, which the body&rsquo;s immune system may create in response to sperm</li> <li><strong>Reactive oxygen species</strong> (free radicals that damage sperm)</li> <li><strong>Sperm DNA integrity</strong> to see if there is damage to the sperm&rsquo;s genetic material </li> </ul> <p>The doctor may also conduct other special tests to assess possible issues with the endocrine system, genetic concerns, and even surgical intervention.</p> <h3>Endocrine Evaluation</h3> <p>When the hormones controlled by the endocrine system are out of balance, sperm production can be low. Endocrine tests will measure hormones such as testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and prolactin. A doctor may advise these tests if ejaculate volume is low, sperm concentration is less than 10 million/mL, or a patient shows symptoms of endocrine gland disease. </p> <p>Medical therapy can help restore the function of the testes if the pituitary gland in the brain is not sending correct hormone signals. </p> <h3>Genetic Testing: Male Infertility</h3> <p>Abnormal genes may cause infertility by affecting sperm production or mobility. Some genetic abnormalities can be passed on to a man&rsquo;s children and affect their health.</p> <p><strong>The most common genetic factors that cause male infertility are:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Y-chromosomal microdeletions that reduce or eliminate sperm count. </li> <li>Klinefelter&rsquo;s Syndrome that impairs functioning of the testes. </li> <li>Cystic fibrosis gene mutations that result in an absence of the vas deferens. </li> </ul> <h3>Surgical Intervention</h3> <p>After the cause of male infertility is diagnosed, medical therapy may help with hormone regulation, while surgery is often the answer for any physical impediment to sperm production. </p> <p>The most easily corrected condition includes varicoceles, which are large veins that allow blood to flow backward. This condition is linked to a variety of sperm problems and can be treated either with a small incision in the groin or with a venous embolization wherein a small catheter is fed through the veins. Semen quality improves in about two thirds of men who have surgery to repair varicoceles. </p> <p>Surgery can also reverse a vasectomy, which is the most common cause of blockage of the male reproductive tract. About six percent of men who have a vasectomy also have a vasectomy reversal. Approximately 85 percent to 99 percent of men can expect a return of sperm after a reversal. </p> <p>Sperm extraction can also be done with assisted reproductive technologies. Sperm found in the vas deferens, testes or epididymis may be retrieved using minimally invasive techniques and can be used in conjunction with in-vitro fertilization to assist in pregnancy.</p> <p>With new technology, only a small number of healthy sperm are needed to achieve pregnancy through in-vitro fertilization. This means doctors are often able to obtain healthy sperm for egg fertilization even from men who have a very low sperm count.</p>Tue, 28 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0600{E31564D7-A282-4E14-A530-00D55CEF7616} To Treat Seasonal Allergies<p>Treatment principles start with avoidance of the allergen if possible. This is the safest and best practice but if this isn&rsquo;t possible, there are many remedies available.&nbsp;</p> <h2>Over the Counter Options</h2> <ul> <li>Natural Products: may be tried as long as they are safe but unfortunately lack large studies to specify which are best. Nasal rinsing with saline or Neti-Pot solutions is a safe practice with varying results.&nbsp; </li> <li>Nasal Steroids: these come in many brands such as Flonase, Rinocort, or Nasacort.&nbsp; They have very few side effects and the medicine goes right to the site of your allergies with very little being absorbed into your system.</li> <li>Oral Antihistamines: examples include Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec. These enter your system to calm down allergies and can sometimes cause drowsiness. We typically reserve Benadryl for nighttime because it may have more side effects.</li> <li>Red Eye Drops: many over the counter drops can reduce eye redness and are very safe.</li> </ul> <h2>Prescription Options</h2> <p>Once you have tried any combination of over the counter treatments for a few weeks, then consider seeing your family medicine provider if you are not seeing good results. They will be able to walk you through your treatment plan and possibly add on a prescription medicine called Singulair that can bring your allergies under control. There are also antihistamine nasal sprays, eye drops, and other options available.</p> <div style="margin-bottom: 15px; border-top: #31599e 3px solid; width: 100%; background: #d5e3ee; border-bottom: #9bb9e3 2px solid; float: left; font-weight: bold; padding-left: 10px; display: block;"> <p>RELATED: <a href="">Is Connect Care Right for Allergies?</a></p> </div> <h2>Referral to Specialists</h2> <p>Occasionally allergies are so severe that over the counter medications and prescriptions aren&rsquo;t enough for relief. In this case, your family medicine provider may refer you on to an allergy specialist for immunotherapy or &ldquo;allergy shots&rdquo;. This is when they will test you for which allergens cause your allergies and then give you injections to help your immune system get used to the allergen.</p> <p>If you have any questions, feel free to come visit with one of our family medicine providers for more guidance!</p> <div style="margin-bottom: 15px; border-top: #31599e 3px solid; width: 100%; background: #d5e3ee; border-bottom: #9bb9e3 2px solid; float: left; font-weight: bold; padding-left: 10px; display: block;"> <p>RELATED: <a href="">Talk to a Physician</a></p> </div> <p style="margin-bottom: 11.25pt; background: white; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"><a href="" style="box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; font-size: 16px; text-decoration: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; text-transform: none; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(78,122,175); font-style: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: rgb(255,255,255); text-rendering: optimizeLegibility; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">Intermountain Connect Care</a>&nbsp;is available 24/7/365 to provide medical evaluation and treatment services.&nbsp; Connect to or download our mobile app for Android or iOS through your app store.</span></strong></p>Fri, 24 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0600{37BB2F70-C82C-4D66-B336-662FF7D5FE64} Meds That Are Okay (and Not Okay) During Pregnancy<p>Every woman experiences pregnancy differently. You might have morning sickness for months, while your best friend feels great. One universal, however, is that pregnant women can still get sick &mdash; and they experience more aches and pains than normal. Whether it&rsquo;s the common cold, heartburn, or a headache, you might be tempted to reach for your go-to over-the-counter remedy. But before you do, it&rsquo;s important to know what you should and shouldn&rsquo;t take during pregnancy. Reading labels will help you to understand what&rsquo;s in your medications before you take it.</p> <h3>When can I take medicine during pregnancy?</h3> <p>If you&rsquo;re newly pregnant (less than 12 weeks along), you may want to rethink taking unnecessary over-the-counter drugs. The <a href="">first 12 weeks of your pregnancy are a critical time for your baby</a> in terms of organ development. Many doctors recommend avoiding all over-the-counter drugs during this time. Doing so can help to avoid birth defects and other serious problems that could arise from <a href="">potentially harmful medications</a>. </p> <p>Most doctors agree that it&rsquo;s safer to take over-the-counter medications during the second trimester. However, you should be aware that some medications could impact your baby&rsquo;s nervous system or birth weight during this time. Taking medications after 28 weeks is also discouraged, because they can impact your baby after birth. The medications can cross into your baby&rsquo;s system, and baby may not handle it the same way you do, leading to things like breathing difficulties. Always tell your doctor what medications you take and find out if that choice is appropriate during your pregnancy. </p> <h2>What OTC Medicines are Safe During Pregnancy?</h2> <p>Pregnancy brings with it a laundry list of ailments and complaints. Luckily, <a href="">several over-the-counter remedies are safe to use during pregnancy</a>. Although the following list isn&rsquo;t comprehensive, it should give you a general idea about what&rsquo;s okay to take during pregnancy to relieve common complaints. Again, discuss any medications you take with your doctor.</p> <h3>Allergies</h3> <p>Antihistamines that include Chlorpheniramine, Loratadine, and Diphenhydramine (Chlor-Trimeton, Alavert, Claritin, Benadryl) </p> <h3>Cold and Cough</h3> <p>Over-the-counter medicines containing Guaifenesin, an expectorant (Robitussin, Mucinex, Hytuss, Neldecon Senior EX). Cough suppressants containing Dextromethorphan (Robitussin, Vicks 44 Cough Relief). Cough drops and Vicks VapoRub are also safe when used as recommended. Medications you should avoid include anything with alcohol, pseudoephedrine, and phenylephrine.</p> <h3>Constipation, diarrhea, and hemorrhoids</h3> <p>Constipation medications containing Polycarbophil (Fiber-Lax, Equalactin) Psyllium (Metamucil, Perdiem, and Konsyl-D), as well as laxatives and stool softeners (Colace, milk of magnesia, Maltsupex). Anti-diarrhea medications containing Loperamide (Imodium, Maalox Anti-Diarrheal, Pepto Diarrhea Control). Hemorrhoid creams (Tucks, Preparation H).</p> <h3>Heartburn, upset stomach, gas/bloating</h3> <p>Antacids (Tums, Mylanta, Rolaids, and Maalox). Simethicone for gas pain (Gas-X, Mylanta Gas, Mylicon, and Maalox Anti-Gas)</p> <h3>Insomnia</h3> <p>Diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Nytol) and Doxylamine succinate (Unisom Nighttime Sleep-Aid)</p> <h3>Itching/rash</h3> <p>Hydrocortisone (Cortaid, Lanacort).</p> <h3>Pain relief, headaches, and fever</h3> <p>Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Anacin Aspirin-Free)</p> <h3>Yeast Infections</h3> <p>Tioconazole (Monistat 1, and Vagistat 1), Clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin 3, Lotrimin AF), Miconazole (Monistat 3, Desenex). Some antifungal products shouldn&rsquo;t be used during pregnancy. Check with your doctor and carefully check labels. </p> <h2>What OTC Medicines to Avoid During Pregnancy</h2> <p>Pregnant women should avoid the following medications: ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), Bactrim (an antibiotic), aspirin, naproxen (Aleve), and codeine. When choosing medications, avoid all-in-one medications such as cold medicine that treats nasal congestion, fever, and aches and pains with one dose. Instead, treat specific symptoms (i.e. nasal congestion). This decreases the chance of choosing a medication that might have ingredients that aren&rsquo;t safe for you or your baby. </p> <h3>When should I talk to my doctor?</h3> <p>Although many medications are thought to be safe during pregnancy, it&rsquo;s important to discuss any medications you&rsquo;re taking with your doctor. That&rsquo;s especially true if you have a high-risk pregnancy. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking an over-the-counter medication, contact your doctor immediately. You should also contact your doctor if you think you have the flu or experience dizziness, vaginal bleeding, severe vomiting, high fever, reduced fetal movement, difficulty breathing, or chest pain. The flu can increase the risk of birth defects or premature labor.</p>Fri, 24 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0600{48A75E9D-6802-41EE-AB22-D977B4B7A69A} Clam Chowder Recipe (with video)<h3>Ingredients: </h3> <ul> <li>&frac12; lb. bacon, diced</li> <li>1 cup chopped onion</li> <li>1 cup chopped celery</li> <li>4 (6 oz.) cans minced clams with juice</li> <li>8 medium potatoes, cubed</li> <li>2 cups chicken stock</li> <li>&frac12; cup water</li> <li>3 teaspoons salt</li> <li>&frac14; teaspoon pepper</li> <li>&frac14; teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)</li> <li>2 bay leaves</li> <li>1&frac12; teaspoon thyme</li> <li>4 cups half and half cream or heavy cream</li> <li>3 to 4 Tbsp. cornstarch</li> <li>chopped fresh parsley, for garnish</li> </ul> <h3>Instructions: </h3> <ol> <li>In skillet, saut&eacute; bacon and onion until golden brown. Drain and put into slow cooker.</li> <li>Add all remaining ingredients except half and half (or cream), cornstarch, and parsley.</li> <li>Cover and cook on high 3 to 4 hours, or low 6-7 hours, until vegetables are tender.</li> <li>During the last hour of cooking, combine 1 cup of milk or cream with the cornstarch. Add cornstarch mixture and the remaining milk or cream and stir well; heat through.</li> <li>Spoon into bowls and garnish with parsley. Enjoy!</li> </ol> <br /> <iframe width="560" height="315" src=";showinfo=0" frameborder="0"></iframe>Fri, 24 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0600{28934860-C4DD-43F2-966B-A0EE5A339F2B} Right: Change the Foods Change Your Life<p>Obesity is a significant health problem in the world, linked to an increased risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer. Obesity can also have a negative effect on energy levels, sleep and self-esteem. </p> <p>I have recommended many different types of diets to my patients over the years to help them lose weight and promote health. It was frustrating for my patients and for me when most were not successful. I began to wonder if there was lifestyle that could help produce the results we wanted. </p> <h2>A Whole-Food, Plant-Based Diet</h2> <p>A few years ago, I read a book called &ldquo;Eat to Live&rdquo; that espoused the benefits of eating a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. I was so encouraged by it&rsquo;s recommendations and the studies that were used to support it that I began to research the benefits myself. What I found was impressive. There were many studies linking this type of lifestyle to lower rates of high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and cancer. There were also reports of this lifestyle reversing heart disease. </p> <p>So what is a whole-foods, plant-based lifestyle? A <a href="" target="_self">recent article in the scientific Permanente Journal</a> described it as a healthy, plant-based diet that maximizes consumption of nutrient-dense plant foods while minimizing processed foods, oils and animal foods. Such a diet also encourages eating lots of vegetables (cooked or raw), fruits, beans, peas, lentils, soybeans, seeds and nuts (in smaller amounts), and is generally low in fat. </p> <h3>Putting the Lifestyle to the Test</h3> <p>To put it to the test, I began following this lifestyle. Most mornings I would have a smoothie with fruit, water and greens. Other times I would have steel-cut oatmeal with fruit. For lunches I would have a large salad with lots of vegetables. For dinner I would eat mainly vegetables and legumes in combination with brown rice or quinoa. For snacks I would eat fruit, nuts, seeds and raw vegetables. </p> <p>Although I was not perfect, I found that after six months I had lost 25 pounds, I slept better and found that my energy levels had also improved. Perhaps most impressive, I felt I could continue this lifestyle for the rest of my life. The food was tasty and varied. I also did not feel like I was starving myself. In fact, I felt like I was eating all the time and was satisfied. It was just that I was eating the right types of foods that were high in nutritious value and low in calories. I continue to try to follow this lifestyle.&nbsp;</p> <div style="float: left; margin-bottom: 15px; background: #d5e3ee; width: 100%; font-weight: bold; border-top: 3px solid #31599e; border-bottom: 2px solid #9bb9e3; display: block; padding-left: 10px;"> <p> RELATED: <a href="">Is a Plant-Based Diet Right For Me?</a></p> </div> <p>Because of the differences in my life, I began recommending this lifestyle to my patients. For those who followed my advice, I noticed that they also lost significant amounts of weight. I noticed that in most cases it helped lower blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. I was also able to reduce the amount of medications that they were taking as many of their medical problems were better controlled. </p> <p>More importantly those who began to eat this way mentioned that they just felt better overall. </p> <h3>Why You Should Give This Lifestyle a Try</h3> <p>I am convinced that a whole-foods, plant-based lifestyle is a healthier way to eat that can prevent and even improve or cure disease. I encourage my patients to a 30-day challenge: Try the lifestyle for 30 days and see if it has a positive impact on your life. </p> <p>If you do have a chronic medical condition, I would encourage you to discuss it with your primary care provider as there may be certain medications or conditions that may need to be adjusted to work well with this lifestyle. </p>Thu, 23 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0600{AE298A39-5627-471E-882E-44D447AECC09} Heart-Healthy Fats to Add to Your Diet<p>Fat sometimes gets a bad rap, but choosing the right types of fats &ndash; mono- and poly-unsaturated fats &ndash; actually promotes heart health. Along with choosing heart healthy fats, think about incorporating more soluble fiber in your diet. Soluble fiber, especially when you get more than 10 grams per day, can significantly improve your cholesterol levels.</p> <div style="float:left; margin-bottom:15px; background:#d5e3ee; width:100%; font-weight:bold; border-top:3px solid #31599e; border-bottom:2px solid #9bb9e3; display:block; padding-left:10px;"><p> RELATED: <a href="">5 Ways to Lower Your Cholesterol Level</a></p> </div> <h2>Foods you can start eating now to improve your heart health:</h2> <h3>Nuts</h3> <p>Nuts are packed with monounsaturated fats, arginine, potassium, vitamin E, and fiber. Eating &frac12; cup of nuts per day can lower your LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) by up to 5 percent. Any kind of nut is a good choice &ndash; walnuts, almonds, peanuts, and pistachios, for example. Choose unsalted nuts and take them as a snack or add them to your salad or stir-fry.</p> <h3>Soy</h3> <p>Soy products are a good source of soluble fiber and the types of fat that can be converted to omega-3 fatty acids. Incorporate edamame, mature soybeans, tofu, or soy milk into your routine. Edamame is an excellent snack, or think about chilling it and adding it to your salad.</p> <h3>Fatty fish</h3> <p>Eat two or three servings of fatty fish every week. Fatty fish, or oily fish are lake trout, salmon, sardines, albacore tuna, herring, oysters, and halibut. Fatty fish are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and can lower your triglyceride levels.</p> <h3>Avocados</h3> <p>Avocados are an excellent source of soluble fiber, monounsaturated fats, potassium, and vitamin K. Add sliced avocados to tacos, smoothies, soups, sandwiches, etc.</p>Wed, 22 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0600{89EA09C9-A5DD-4980-BEAC-31065108DAF3} Daily Dose: What You Should Know About Vitamins and Supplements<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">What are vitamins and what is their role?</h2> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential for normal metabolism in humans. Other than Vitamin D, we do not produce any vitamins within our bodies &mdash; we must get them from food. </p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">Vitamins have a proven role in disease prevention and wellness, and certain diseases, like scurvy and rickets, are caused by vitamin deficiencies. Conversely, too much of a good thing can also be harmful. So where&rsquo;s the balance? How many vitamins and how much of them should we aim for each day?</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is the most commonly used guide for quantifying daily vitamin intake and is the best place to start. Eating a diet that includes whole fruits and vegetables, grains, nuts, dairy, and some meats usually assures an adequate intake of vitamins. Vitamin deficiencies can occur in the presence of restrictive diets (e.g. vegan) and in conditions that hinder absorption or metabolism. Women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy and elderly people have unique vitamin needs as well.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">Most multivitamin products are manufactured to provide several vitamins in amounts that, if taken as directed, help assure you are getting the daily recommended total without reaching an amount that is &ldquo;too much.&rdquo; Medically, it is generally considered safe to take a daily multivitamin, though it is not essential for most healthy adults. Research <i>to-date</i> has shown that taking a multivitamin to supplement dietary intake does not prevent diseases. I strongly recommend you get medical guidance if you are considering uses of vitamins outside the labeled recommendations.</p> <div style="margin-bottom: 15px; border-top: #31599e 3px solid; width: 100%; background: #d5e3ee; border-bottom: #9bb9e3 2px solid; float: left; font-weight: bold; padding-left: 10px; display: block;"> <p>RELATED: <a href="">Food and Drug Interactions - What You Should Know</a></p> </div> <h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">What can vitamin and mineral supplements do for your health?</h2> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">Supplements, whether they are herbal or natural, have been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of illnesses and symptoms. Everything from acai to saw palmetto, the list of plant-based supplements is quite long. Non-botanical supplements such as fish oil and chondroitin also are widely used. </p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">But supplements are not regulated, and should be used with caution. When using supplements, you might be consuming products that are:</p> <p>1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Not required to have demonstrated health benefit </p> <p>2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Not subjected to strict quality controls</p> <p>3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Not proven to be safe</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">While there are plants that we know to have health benefits &mdash; aspirin for example was first identified from willow bark &mdash; others have potentially serious safety concerns when misused or taken in combination with other supplements or medications. </p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">And while there&rsquo;s a lot we don&rsquo;t know about many supplements, a lack of detailed biochemical understanding does not necessarily discount thousands of years of practical experience. However, if you accept that a supplement does not have strong proof of health benefit and to assume it is safe in the formulation sold (check that assumption carefully), it is important to understand the ingredients and quantities in supplements cannot always be validated. </p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">Park City Hospital&rsquo;s LiVe Well Center offers experts in lifestyle medicine that can help you assess your sleep, stress, exercise habits, and nutrition intake. Based upon the results, we can recommend vitamins and supplements that could best help you live the healthiest life possible. </p>Wed, 22 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0600{92EED9E5-C0EF-450D-90DB-BF860D35D55F} with Celiac Disease: Signs, Symptoms and Treatment<h2>What is celiac disease?</h2> <strong></strong>Celiac disease, also known as celiac sprue, it is a condition where the immune system responds abnormally to a protein called gluten. With persistent exposure, it can cause damage to the lining of the small intestine. The actual cause of celiac disease is unclear, but it seems to be a combination of genetics and environment. <br /> <br /> Approximately 1 percent (1 out of 100) of Americans have celiac disease and that roughly 95 percent (300 million) remain undiagnosed. Celiac disease is seen primarily in whites of Northern European ancestry with the most common presentation between the ages of 10 and 40. Both genders are equally affected. If a first-degree relative is diagnosed, the risk of all other family members also having the disease can be anywhere from 10 percent to 40 percent. <br /> <h2>What are the signs and symptoms of celiac disease?</h2> Classic symptoms of celiac disease include: <br /> <ul> <li>Abdominal pain&nbsp;</li> <li>Bloating&nbsp;</li> <li>Diarrhea or constipation&nbsp;</li> <li>Fatigue&nbsp;</li> <li>Weight loss (or failure to thrive in children)&nbsp;</li> </ul> <br /> Other symptoms include but are not limited to: <br /> <ul> <li>Migraine headaches&nbsp;</li> <li>Joint pain&nbsp;</li> <li>Skin rash&nbsp;</li> <li>Depression&nbsp;</li> <li>Mouth sores&nbsp;</li> <li>Osteopenia or osteoporosis (bone health)&nbsp;</li> <li>Tooth defects&nbsp;</li> <li>Infertility, miscarriages or pregnancy complications&nbsp;</li> </ul> <br /> Celiac patients can also be asymptomatic, which means that they may have no obvious symptoms of celiac disease. <h2>How is celiac disease diagnosed?</h2> There are several different tests used to check for celiac disease. These include blood work and genetic testing. However, the &ldquo;gold standard&rdquo; for diagnosis is an upper endoscopy. In this procedure, biopsies (microscopic pieces of tissue) are taken from the first portion of the small intestine. These biopsies are then studied to either confirm or rule out the tissue changes characteristic of celiac disease. <br /> <br /> When a celiac patient stops consuming gluten, the tissue in the small intestine heals and testing levels return back to normal. For an accurate diagnosis, it is very important that the patient sees their doctor to be tested before cutting gluten out of their diet. <br /> <h2>What is the difference between celiac disease and gluten intolerance?</h2> It is important to know whether a patient&rsquo;s symptoms are related to an intolerance to gluten or due to true celiac disease. These problems may have similar symptoms, but only celiac disease will damage the tissue of the small intestine and lead to long-term effects and complications. These two problems can only be differentiated with small intestinal biopsies. Both will improve if the patient stops consuming gluten. <br /> <br /> If someone has true celiac disease and continues to eat gluten, long term-effects may include vitamin and nutrient deficiencies (A, D, E, B12, copper, zinc, folic acid), iron deficiency anemia, bone loss and an increased risk of certain types of gastrointestinal cancer and lymphoma (cancer in the intestinal lymph system). <br /> <br /> Additional conditions that are more common to those with celiac disease include dermatitis herpetiformis (rash), type I diabetes, liver disease, Down syndrome, thyroid disease, acid reflux, inflammatory bowel disease, reproductive issues, ADD/ADHD and nervous system disorders. In order to prevent these conditions, it is extremely important for people with celiac disease to avoid all forms of gluten. <h3>What is gluten?</h3> The treatment for celiac disease is a strict and complete avoidance of gluten. Gluten is a protein particle found in wheat, barley, rye, related grains and wheat additives. Wheat additives are the most common additive in American food products and can hide in a lot of food products that we consume as a society. This makes it very important for those with celiac disease to read all food labels closely. <br /> <br /> Foods containing gluten include: <br /> <ul> <li>Flour&nbsp;</li> <li>Breads&nbsp;</li> <li>Crackers&nbsp;</li> <li>Muffins&nbsp;</li> <li>Pasta&nbsp;</li> <li>Cereals&nbsp;</li> <li>Baking mixes&nbsp;</li> <li>Sauces, spices, condiments and salad dressings&nbsp;</li> <li>Some medications and vitamin supplements&nbsp;</li> </ul> <br /> Gluten-free foods include: <br /> <ul> <li>Rice&nbsp;</li> <li>Corn&nbsp;</li> <li>Potatoes&nbsp;</li> <li>Quinoa, millet, buckwheat and soybeans&nbsp;</li> <li>Milk, cheese and other dairy products&nbsp;</li> <li>Fruits and vegetables&nbsp;</li> <li>Meat and eggs&nbsp;</li> </ul> <br /> Foods labeled &ldquo;gluten free&rdquo; are acceptable. The FDA requires anything with the label &ldquo;gluten free&rdquo; to have less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. Gluten-free menus are also becoming safer over time as there is an increasing interest in serving celiac patients. Culinary arts programs and schools have focused on educating their students and chefs on proper ways to handle, prepare and serve gluten-free meals to properly avoid cross-contamination. Accessibility to gluten-free options has dramatically increased over time and is expected to continue increasing in the future. Varieties of gluten-free substitutes are available at supermarkets, health food stores and online. <br /> <br /> After diagnosis and eliminating gluten from their diets completely, celiac patients should expect symptom relief within several days to a few weeks. However, it can take up to six months for intestinal healing in children and up to two years in adults. Patients are encouraged to meet with a dietitian after diagnosis to discuss diet options and nutritional management for the future. <div><br /> &nbsp; <div style="margin-bottom: 15px; border-top: 3px solid #31599e; width: 100%; background: #d5e3ee; border-bottom: 2px solid #9bb9e3; float: left; font-weight: bold; padding-left: 10px; display: block;"> <p>RELATED: <a href="">Will Following a Gluten-Free Diet Enhance My Performance</a></p> </div> <h2>When is it time to see your healthcare provider? </h2> You are encouraged to see your healthcare provider if you have experienced several weeks of gastrointestinal symptoms as mentioned above, have brown or yellow teeth, find strange rashes on your skin or have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) diagnosed with celiac disease. Parents are encouraged to take children who display behavioral symptoms of celiac disease, are failing to thrive or are experiencing delayed puberty to their healthcare providers. <br /> <br /> If you or your children have any of these symptoms or if you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact our office or your primary care physician. We would be happy to get you back to your normal, healthy life. <div></div> </div>Wed, 22 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0600{05FA9931-20DF-4B4B-97BF-9CD0F52D79EF} Mammogram: A Can&#39;t-Miss Screening<p>Did you know Utah is among the lowest in the nation for mammography screening? A recent research snapshot from the Utah Women &amp; Leadership Project shows <a href="">Utah is fifth lowest in the nation for this lifesaving cancer screening</a>, and we&rsquo;ve been below the national average since 1994. </p> <p>Why is making a mammogram part of your preventive care routine so important? Because some tumors detectable by breast X-ray are too small to be detected by touch.</p> <p>There are two types of mammograms: <strong>screening</strong> and <strong>diagnostic</strong>. Which one a doctor orders depends on whether or not you have signs of or symptoms of breast cancer. &nbsp;If you have no symptoms, you can always schedule your own screening mammogram.</p> <p>A screening mammogram can detect cancer, even if you don&rsquo;t feel a lump or have other symptoms. It typically consists of two X-ray pictures of each breast, taken from different angles.</p> <p>A diagnostic mammogram&mdash;which takes more views of the breast&mdash;is performed, if you have exhibited symptoms, or if an abnormal result has shown up on a screening mammogram. An ultrasound exam is often performed as well.</p> <div style="float:left; margin-bottom:15px; background:#d5e3ee; width:100%; font-weight:bold; border-top:3px solid #31599e; border-bottom:2px solid #9bb9e3; display:block; padding-left:10px;"><p> RELATED: <a href="">What You Need to Know About Breast Exams</a></p> </div> <h2>Preparing for Your Mammogram</h2> <p>Still having periods? Don&rsquo;t schedule the mammogram for any day during the week before your period (when breasts are most tender). Scheduling outside that week makes for a more comfortable examination and a clearer X-ray.</p> <p>If you have had mammograms taken elsewhere, arrange for the prior exams to be sent to our facility, so that old and new X-rays can be compared. Most of the time, your previous exams can be transmitted electronically to one of our breast imaging centers.</p> <p>On the day of your appointment, wear clothes that let you easily undress from the waist up&mdash;e.g., a shirt with pants or skirt. Don&rsquo;t use any perfume, deodorant, lotion or powder under your breasts or arms. These can cast a shadow on the X-ray pictures.</p> <p>During the mammogram, your breasts will be compressed between two firm surfaces, which spreads out your breast tissue, making it less likely that a small cancer will be obscured. A machine will record the images and they will be digitally stored for interpretation, usually the following day.</p> <p>Intermountain Healthcare recommends that women begin yearly screening mammograms at the age of 40. Consult with your doctor about scheduling your next screening mammogram. Of course, if you have any symptoms&mdash;like a lump, fullness, nipple discharge, or other changes&mdash;you should have a diagnostic mammogram.</p> <h3>Should You Still Self-Exam?</h3> <p>Mammograms can help detect cancer before you feel a lump. However, many cancerous lumps are first noticed during clinical or self-breast examination. You and your doctor must be familiar with your breasts, as mammography is not a perfect test. Mammography is the only screening test for breast cancer that has been shown to save lives in multiple scientific studies, but a screening mammogram can miss up to 10 percent of breast cancers.</p> <p>Over the last 25 years there has been a 35-40 percent decrease in breast cancer deaths, due in large part to the widespread availability of screening mammography. Remember, one in eight women will eventually be diagnosed with breast cancer, and 75 percent of cases occur in women with no family history.</p> <div style="padding:20px; background:#d5e3ee; border-top:3px solid #0054a6;"> <h2>Schedule Your Mammogram Today</h2> <ul> <li>Alta View Hospital: <a href="tel:1-801-507-7888">(801) 507-7888</a></li> <li>American Fork Hospital: <a href="tel:1-801-357-1170">(801) 357-1170</a></li> <li>Bear River Hospital: <a href="tel:1-435-207-4555">(435) 207-4555</a></li> <li>Cassia Regional Hospital: <a href="tel:1-208-677-6515">(208) 677-6515</a></li> <li>Dixie Regional Hospital: <a href="tel:1-435-251-1777">(435) 251-1777</a></li> <li>Intermountain Medical Center: <a href="tel:1-801-507-7888">(801) 507-7888</a></li> <li>LDS Hospital: <a href="tel:1-801-507-7888">(801) 507-7888</a></li> <li>Logan Regional Hospital: <a href="tel:1-435-716-5307">(435) 716-5307</a></li> <li>McKay-Dee Hospital: <a href="tel:1-801-387-7200">(801) 387-7200</a></li> <li>Orem Community Hospital: <a href="tel:1-801-357-1170">(801) 357-1170</a></li> <li>Park City Hospital: <a href="tel:1-435-658-7051">(435) 658-7051</a></li> <li>Riverton Hospital: <a href="tel:1-801-507-7888">(801) 507-7888</a></li> <li>Salt Lake Clinic: <a href="tel:1-385-282-2000">(385) 282-2000</a></li> <li>Utah Valley Hospital: <a href="tel:1-801-357-1170">(801) 357-1170</a></li> </ul> </div>Tue, 21 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0600