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Obstructive Sleep Apnea

A great night’s sleep not only makes us feel great and rested, it improves our health. For some, this is easier said than done! Over 18 million Americans suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). This is a serious condition in which the the airway collapses or becomes obstructed during sleep causing shallow breathing or breathing pauses which can last from a few seconds to a over a minute. These episodes can be severe , occurring several times per hour. Blood oxygen levels drop can drop during these episodes. Over time, OSA has been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, depression and accidents while driving. What used to be considered a nuisance can sometimes be not only a quality of life but quantity of life issue.

OSA is the leading cause of daytime sleepiness. Although anyone at any age can exhibit symptoms and be diagnosed with OSA, men seem more likely than women to have this condition. Risk factors include obesity and a family history of OSA. Occasionally, other medical conditions can affect OSA as well, such as congestive heart failure and neuromuscular disorders. Symptoms include loud and chronic snoring, headaches, memory problems, depression, irritability, dry mouth and sore throat. Treatments include Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and other devices and at times, surgical intervention.

In this segment, Dr. Scott Leibowitz, a board certified internal medicine physician and current President of the GA Association of Sleep Professionals will discuss OSA, good sleep hygiene, diagnosis and treatments for OSA and what’s new in this sleep apnea field. Listeners can visit: www.laureatemed.com and www.aasmnet.org for more information.

 

Dr. Scott Leibowitz

  • Residency in Internal Medicine completed at Colorado Health Science Center
  • Clinical research and fellowship in Sleep Medicine at Stanford
  • Author and frequent lecturer on sleep medicine
  • Current President of GA Association of Sleep Professionals
  • Now board certified physician in private practice with Laureate Medical Group

 

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Chiropractic Care: Not Just for Pain!

Over 20 million Americans will seek chiropractic care this year! Chiropractic care has been around for over 100 years and involves care of the musculoskeletal and nervous system through use of a hands on, drug free, non-invasive and natural approach. Chiropractors have broad diagnostic skills. This type of care has been increasingly covered by health insurance plans in the US and is appropriate for all ages. Typically, patients turn to chiropractic care seeking relief from back pain, neck pain, joint injuries and headaches. However, chiropractic care is appropriate for all ages and for many types of health conditions, both chronic and acute. Chiropractors use such modalities as heat, spinal manipulation (adjustments), nutrition, acupuncture, biofeedback, labs, imaging and exercise to achieve immediate relief and long lasting results.

This segment will discuss how this specialty can assist with many other types of health issues that the public may not associate chiropractic care with at first, such as: infant care (birth trauma recovery, growth promotion, colic, chronic ear infections), pre and post-natal pregnancy support (low back pain, pelvic support prior to delivery), carpal tunnel syndrome and acid reflux problems (hiatal hernia, GERD). Goals of this type of treatment include immediate and long term relief, decreased drug and surgical intervention and promotion of general health.

In this segment, Dr. Forrest Watts, a Doctor of Chiropractic in Cumming, GA will discuss how chiropractic can help many types of patients beyond neck and back pain. Dr. Watts has also received additional training in acupuncture and sports injuries. Listeners can visit: www.drforrestwatts.com and www.acatoday.org for more information.

 

Dr. Forrest Watts

  • Doctor of Chiropractic from Life University
  • Special training in sports injuries and acupunture
  • Certified to treat carpal tunnel problems
  • Private practice in Cumming, GA

 

Dr. Forrest Watts

Common and Lifesaving Blood Tests

Annual blood screening and testing a single, powerful and cost effective tool for preventing disease. Blood tests reveal a snapshot of our health and often detect health problems before symptoms or disease. Regular monitoring, especially over time, can help patients focus on early intervention strategies and good health maintenance. Blood tests are cost effective compared to the costs of disease related healthcare and medication expenses. Physicians often order “routine” blood tests during and annual physical, but often neglect age related or non-obvious blood testing and they often do not focus on risk factors. Blood tests provide information about the function of our cardiovascular status, hormone function, kidney and liver function, our body chemistry and our endocrine system. By obtaining blood samples and evaluating the results, patients can screen for cancers, learn about the degree of inflammation in their bodies, measure our risk factors for certain diseases and help us improve our health and longevity by catching critical changes and showing us where to focus for optimal health maintenance.

In this segment, board-certified urologist, certified medical review officer and owner of Any Lab Test Now, Dr. David Perlow will educate the listeners on top, common annual blood tests that can save lives and help us keep focused on disease prevention. Listeners can visit: www.anytest.com for more information.

 

Dr. David Perlow

  • Medical training at University of Michigan
  • Board-certified in Urology
  • Certified Medical Review Officer
  • Private practice at Georgia Regional Urology and owner Any Lab Test Now!
  • Affiliated with Wellstar Cobb, Kennestone and Windy Hill

 

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Pituitary Disease

The pituitary gland is often referred to as the “master gland” in the body. This lima bean sized gland at the base of the brain is part of the endocrine system and produces and regulates many hormones that affect glands such as growth hormone (regulates body structures and weight), thyroid stimulating hormone, prolactin ( affects milk production), sex hormones,and adrenal gland production (regulates water and electrolyte balance). Disorders of the pituitary gland can cause big and little problems- and these often go undiagnosed because symptoms can be vague. These disorders include tumors that cause overproduction of hormones that affect the end-organ system or pituitary lesions that may results in underproduction of hormones. Acromegaly, Cushings Disease, Addison’s Disease can all be linked to pituitary disorders. However, the most common problem is pituitary tumors.

Pituitary tumors are usually benign (adenomas), although they can be invasive and they account for approx. 10% of all brain tumors. Pituitary carcinoma’s account for a very small percentage of pituitary tumors. However, even these benign tumors can cause problems in hormone function and can be invasive to the surrounding structures, such as the optic nerve. Treatments include surgery, radiation and a few medications. Symptoms may include: headaches, vision and behavior changes, nausea and vomiting, hormone imbalance and fatigue. Diagnosis almost always involves investigating the “why” behind presenting symptoms.

In this segment, Dr. Joseph Pinzone, a double board-certified physician who is a national expert in pituitary diseases will provide a “master class” about this “master gland.”

 

Dr. Joseph Pinzone

  • Medical training at NYU, Columbia-Presbyterian and Mass General
  • Double board certified in Internal Medicine and Endrocrinology
  • Former NIH researcher on Pituitary Tumors
  • Current Clinical Professor at UCLA Geffen School of Medicine
  • Concierge private practice in Santa Monica, CA

 

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Coronary Calcium Scoring

The statistics are sobering. Heart disease remains the nation’s leading killer for adults > 35 yrs. Consider these statistics: 1) every 29 seconds an American has a heart attack 2) every 60 seconds and American dies from a heart attack 3) for men and women, 50% or greater of those that have a heart attack had no prior symptoms and their first one was death. Heart disease comes about over years or even decades. There is now technology available that is 99% effective in either confirming or ruling out coronary heart disease with less radiation than one would get exposed to on an airplane flight! “Virtual exams” of our internal organs are now a reality due to advances in medical imaging technology. However, imaging does not provide direct outcomes for the patient- but the information these tests can provide can lead to changes that can decrease heart disease risk factors, potentially reverse damage, and save lives.

This segment will discuss a very specific screening test for coronary heart disease: the Coronary Calcium Scoring test or as some people have heard, “The Heart Scan.” Coronary arteries do not normally have calcium. Calcified plaque in coronary arteries is a leading indicator of heart disease. Using non-invasive, low dose radiation CT scan that takes about 15-20 minutes, patients and providers can now obtain critical cardiac information that can be used post test and in comparison’s over time, to minimize risk and take proactive steps in the maintenance of good heart health or the management of heart disease. The test is most beneficial as a screening tool for patients NOT yet diagnosed with heart disease. Scans are taken of the heart and the results are compared to a scoring system that is measured by a range of no cardiac disease, minimally present, moderately present, extensively present or high risk requiring medical intervention. Information is shared with the patient and their medical provider post test and the patient can return to normal activities when the scan is completed.

In this segment, board-certified preventive cardiologist, Jason Reingold and Dan McGeown, CEO of Virtual Imaging will educate the listeners on the testing methods, patients who benefit most, the scoring system and post test results and what do do about them. Listeners can visit: www.virtualimagingatl.com or www.drjasonreingold.com for more information.

 

Dr. Jason Reingold

  • Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiology
  • MD from Emory University
  • Internal Medicine Residency program completed at UC San Francisco Med Ctr.
  • Cardiology fellowship completed at Mass General Hospital in Boston
  • Regular appearances on CNN’s Sanjay Gupta’s health program

 

Dan McGeown

  • CEO, Virtual Imaging Atlanta
  • Masters in Education and seasoned entrepreneur

 

Dr. Jason Reingold & Dan McGeown

Workers Comp: A Physician’s Primer

No matter how safe the workplace is, injuries and illness occur. Georgia now has over 4 million workers >16 years of age and in the most recent statistics available, over 87,000 injuries were reported annually. In GA alone, over $1.5 billion in benefits were paid and this does not include the associated health care expenses! Medical costs now outweigh (60%) the indemnity costs. Also of note in GA, there is a shortage of qualified physicians that treat occupational injuries and illness as we have only one fifth of the recommended ratio of 1 MD/1000 employees. On July 1, 2013 GA enacted new law (GA House Bill 154)that increased slightly the weekly workers comp benefit, but capped the benefit for less serious work related injuries. Every employer with over 3 employees is mandated to have workers comp insurance.

Workers Compensation is an accident insurance program, paid for by employers, which may provide workers with medical, rehabilitation and income if an employee is injured or becomes ill on the job. Physicians are a key part of the workers compensation system as they are a pivotal point in getting the employee connected to appropriate treatment, focused on recovery, minimizing life disruption and assisting with developing a return to work plan. Providers often find themselves “the go-between” for the employer, carrier and injured employee. This program will not focus on the legalities or politics of the workers comp system, but on the provision of high quality occupational health by providers.

In this segment, Dr. Charles Cooley, a board-certified Family Practice physician who is an expert at treating occupational health patients through the workers comp system will discuss the basic concepts of the workers comp system, common types of workers comp injuries, special considerations when handling workers comp patient cases and tips for employers and patients in navigating through the medical aspects of the workers comp program.

 

Dr. Charles Cooley

  • MD from Medical College of GA in Augusta
  • Completed residency at Huntsville Hospital
  • Board certified in Family Practice
  • Affiliated with Northside Hospital, Cherokee Campus
  • In private practice with urgent care centers in Canton, Villa Rica

 

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Energy Healing: A Complement To Medicine

Energy fields in the body have long been recognized in Eastern cultures, including medicine. Subtle energy fields are now being more incorporated and used in Western medicine. “Chi, prana, and bioenergy fields” are all words used around the world to describe this lifeforce. The belief in a living force is ancient and widespread today. Energy healing one modality of complementary medicine. When we are injured, ill or under stress, the natural flow of energy is interrupted and may negatively impact our mind/body/emotional/ spiritual connections. We can use certain tools and modalities to clear, balance, energize and support the human energy system to maximize the body’s ability to heal.

The CDC’s National Health Statistics Report documented that 1:4 Americans have used some form of complementary medicine within the past 12 months. Multiple studies have shown that our thoughts can be measured and that thoughts affect our health in a significant way. Some physicians have estimated that one third of all “healings” come about not through surgery or medicine, but from our self-healing capacities. Matter is compressed energy and information is patterns of energy. The heart’s electromagnetic signals demonstrate energy flow throughout our bodies. Many practitioners and patients believe that it is time to bring the qualities of healing into the mainstream conversation- even Oprah and Dr. Oz have featured segments on this interesting topic.

Today, an Atlanta Energy Therapist and renowned author, shares her insights and experience on energy medicine, energy balancing and energy healing as a complement to traditional medicine in optimizing our own body’s ability to heal. She will discuss energy work modalities, what to expect when working with an energy healer and provide examples of working with people with chronic illnesses, such as cancer, as well as episodic dis-ease like stress management.

 

Robbie Houcek

  • Private Practice Energy Therapist for over 15 years
  • Healing Facilitator
  • National Speaker
  • Author featured in “Remarkable Women”, “Getting Things Done; Successful Women Speak” and “Freeing Godiva; A Woman’s Journey of Self-Empowerment”

 

Robbie Houcek

Weight Loss: An Integrated Approach

Obesity has gone global. Recent statistics have shown that approximately 1 Billion people are overweight on the planet and the two primary causes are increased consumption of a diet in processed foods with saturated fat and a decrease in exercise. Consider some of these statistics: 3 in 10 Americans are trying to lose weight at any one point in time; 35% of Americans are clinically obese; the top three disease killers in the US are related to obesity (heart disease, stroke and cancer) and American’s spend $40 billion on diet related products annually. Alarming.

Research has shown that diet alone will not keep weight lost off alone. Fitness factors in as well. Actually, 80% of dieters are trying to lose weight alone and studies show that 90-95% of dieters will gain the weight lost back within 1-5 years. Exercise is a key component of permanent weight loss, but not without consideration of diet as well. Exercise is also a key component and success factor for people who are successfully able to keep the weight loss off. The role of counseling has also been of great benefit for customizing a weight loss plan and the accountability factor in sticking to a new regime.

In addition to diet and exercise, new technologies and supplements are being introduced with some success into the weight loss arena such as: spa treatments, infrared saunas and the use of cold lasers to disrupt the fat cells, the products of which can then be excreted. Many are also using mobile technology for an accountability “buddy”, calculation and tracking of weight loss and fitness goals. No matter what individual plan entails, gradual, realistic lifestyle changes over time have been shown to produce long term results.

 

Ekow Wilmot

  • Owner of BalanceDiet
  • Federal University of Rio de Janeiro
  • Professional Body Builder x20 years
  • Certified professional trainer (AFAA Aerobics and Fitness Assoc of America)
  • Body temple of God, commitment to never using unnatural aids, helps others by providing health, fitness, nutrition guidance to those wanting natural solutions
  • Watch Video

 

Butch Wesley

  • NSCA certified strength & conditioning coach
  • NSCA certified personal trainer
  • USA Weightlifting certified sports performance coach
  • Former Athletic Coordinator-Clayton County Parks & Recreation
  • NAYS certified Youth Sports Administrator
  • NCAA Football National Championship Jacksonville State University
  • Assistant strength & conditioning coach Jacksonville State University

 

Lisa burris

  • Graduate of Western Michigan University, BA in Business Administration
  • Worked closely with family for 11 years then moved to Florida
  • Established as Marketing director in a physicians office, introduced and certified as a laser tech and is what brought her to Atlanta
  • 15 years experience in business, equipped with multitude of skills including management, marketing, health and medicine applications, business operations and exemplary customer service
  • Set apart from other candidates by: Penchant for organization, eye for detail, positive and personable nature, ability to multitask and perform in a fast paced environment

 

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Exciting New Drug Therapies for Hepatitis

Hepatitis remains a global problem

Hot on the heals of World Hepatitis Day, which was July 28,2013, hepatitis remains a global problem. Viral hepatitis is a disease for both developed and developing countries that causes an estimated 1-3 million deaths globally and can often- well, be prevented! This disease can cause unnecessary suffering. Viral hepatitis is a group of five unrelated viruses (A, B, C, D and E) that can cause both acute and chronic infections, some of which do not cause symptoms and can lay dormant for decades before people learn they are infected. Like some heart diseases, viral hepatitis can be a “silent killer.” Symptoms can later show up and lead to chronic liver disease and even liver cancer long after exposure.

Vaccines are available for Hepatitis A and B. Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B is treatable. Common symptoms of hepatitis infections include nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain and dark urine. Transmission of the virus varies as to the virus type. Diagnosis is made through blood tests that can identify the virus. Many acute viral hepatitis infections resolve spontaneously. However, chronic hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis and death. Treatment involves symptom management, drug treatment and in extreme cases, liver transplant.

This segment of The Doctors Roundtable will feature Dr. Enrique Martinez, a highly acclaimed hepatologist based in Atlanta, who will discuss the basic information around Hepatitis A, B and C as well as at risk populations and exciting new drug therapies on the horizon. Listeners may also visit the following online websites for additional resources: www.atlantagastro.com, www.cdc.gov/hepatitis and www.hepatitisfoundation.org.

 

Dr. Enrique J. Martinez

  • MD training at University of So. FLA
  • Internship, residency and fellowship in IM at USF
  • Board-certified in IM and Gastro
  • Advanced training at University of Miami in Hepatology and Liver Transplantation
  • Widely published in text and peer review journals, a noted lecturer in liver disease
  • Now practicing with Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates and based at Emory in the midtown location of ATL

 

Doctor Enrique J. Martinez

Concussions and New Legislation

In the US, over 173K people were treated for concussion in the past year. In Georgia alone last year, Scottish Rite hospital treated over 1400 kids for concussion. A concussion is a violent shaking of the brain or blow to the head and it is the most common traumatic brain injury. Earlier this year, GA joined over 43 other states by enacting into law a bill addressing the issue of concussions in youth sports, called “The Return to Play Act of 2013.” Collision sports and recreation is a primary area where concussions can occur. There is no quick, definitive test for concussion and many go undiagnosed or untreated. Less than 10% of concussions occur with a loss of consciousness. Symptoms can occur weeks and days after the triggering event that causes a concussion.

Symptoms can include headache, weakness, numbness, slurred speech, amnesia, sleep disturbances, changes in cognitive function, irritability, etc. Recovery from concussion varies widely and there can be long term effects of concussion, especially repeated concussion. Treatment can include physical and cognitive rest, physical and occupational therapy, cognitive therapy. The new law focuses on baseline assessment, prevention, information on risk to parents, on the field assessment and medical clearance requirements prior to returning to play. Join us in this segment to learn about concussion, the new Georgia law, and what parents, coaches and players need to know. Listeners can also find more information at: www.cdc.gov/concussion, www.concussiontreatment.com and www.kidsandpros.com.

 

Dr. Angela Yi

  • Ph. D in Psychology with the Sports Concussion Institute in Los Angeles

 

Diane King, CTC, RD

  • GA Concussion Coalition and President, GA Athletic Trainer Association

 

Buddy Curry

  • Master Trainer with Kids and Pro’s, former Atlanta Falcon pro football player
  • Advocate for passage of GA HB 284 “Return to Play” concussion legislation

 

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