Peninsula Wellness
Peninsula Wellness Story Archives
Sleep Disorders Can Be Serious: They Deserve Serious, Specialized Medicine
Most physicians understand that sleep apnea is more serious than the snoring and that is often the first sign of a sleep-breathing disorder. Hypertension, cardio-vascular disease and even sudden death can be connected to sleep apnea. But that is just a tiny part of the whole story of sleep disorders and their potential impact on the health - and lives - of your patients.
How do we get cavities?
The mechanism by which tooth decay occurs in the mouth is a mystery to much of the general public. Note that dental caries is the most prevalent disease affecting the population of the United States. We all need to be informed about the nature of this devastating condition, which fortunately, is preventable.
All of us have bacteria present in the mouth, which is normal and usually harmless. However, when certain foods or beverages are introduced, the bacteria metabolize these substances, and the by-product is acid, which dissolves tooth structure. The cavity which results then progresses until a dentist intervenes, or the tooth may be destroyed completely. As we know there may be considerable pain, suffering, and expense associated with the episode.
Nueroma
An irritation of a nerve may produce a neuroma, which is a benign enlargement of a nerve segment, commonly found between the third and fourth toes. Several factors may contribute to the formation of a neuroma.
Peripheral Artery Disease
As many as 8 to 12 million Americans have Peripheral Artery Disease. Nearly 75% of these do not have any symptoms and many people mistake the symptoms of PAD for something else. PAD occurs in both men and women, but women are less likely to experience symptoms.
Drug Interactions
Due to the large variety of medications and other therapies that are now available, it is more important than ever to know about medicines you take. If you take several different medicines, see more than one doctor, or have certain health conditions, you and your doctors and one pharmacy need to be aware of all the medicines you take. Doing so will help you to avoid potential problems such as drug interactions.
Sleeping May Be The Most Dangerous Thing You Do Today
If you have trouble sleeping, snore or have excessive drowsiness during the day, you may have a sleep disorder that could be more hazardous than you think.
Why Should I Floss My Teeth?
Most people acknowledge that they should brush their teeth at least once a day, but few individuals ever use dental floss regularly. Failure to do so results in a high incidence of tooth decay even among those who brush regularly. This is particularly true of teenagers who typically consume vast quantities of what we in the profession call “contraband” (i.e. sugar containing foods and beverages).
Hammertoes
A hammertoe is a contracture—or bending—of the toe at the first joint of the digit, called the proximal interphalangeal joint. This bending causes the toe to appear like an upside-down V when looked at from the side. Any toe can be involved, but the condition usually affects the second through fifth toes, known as the lesser digits. Hammertoes are more common to females than males.
Health Benefits fo Quitting Smoking and Monitoring Lung Disease
Many people know that smoking is unhealthy. Images of blackened lungs and the dangers of smoking are posted in hospitals, schools, and physician offices. In spite of this information many smokers have tried, but have not been able to quit smoking.
Hormone Replacement: Benefits vs. Risks
Research has shown that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can effectively control symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, insomnia, vaginal dryness and frequent urinary tract infections.
Narcolepsy: treating a sleepy sickness
The sight of someone dropping off to sleep in midsentence might seem humorous when portrayed in the realm of entertainment, but there is nothing funny about narcolepsy. In fact, after obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy is the second-leading cause of excessive daytime sleepiness diagnosed by sleep centers, affecting one in 2,000 people.
The Phantom Toothaches
People frequently present to the dentist complaining of pain or hypersensitivity in their upper back teeth. This may be due to a variety of causes - decay, fractures, gum infections, etc. Occasionally the dentist cannot place the blame on any of these factors, and the teeth may appear normal both visually and on x-rays. The situation can be a diagnostic dilemma for the doctor and the patient. The patient needs relief, yet the dentist would be reluctant to initiate an irreversible procedure (i.e., root canal or extraction) without convincing evidence that a particular tooth is at fault.
Bunions
A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe—the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint—that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. This forces the toe to bend toward the others, causing an often painful lump of bone on the foot. Since this joint carries a lot of the body’s weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. The MTP joint itself may become stiff and sore, making even the wearing of shoes difficult or impossible. A bunion-from the Latin "bunio," meaning enlargement-can also occur on the outside of the foot along the little toe, where it is called a "bunionette" or "tailor’s bunion."
Health Benefits of Quitting Smoking and Monitoring Lung Disease
Many people know that smoking is unhealthy. Images of blackened lungs and the dangers of smoking are posted in hospitals, schools, and physician offices. In spite of this information many smokers have tried, but have not been able to quit smoking.
Magnesium Levels Low in Depression
Antidepressant drugs are not always effective in treating major depression and some medications have been implicated in causing an increased number of suicides. Magnesium deficiency is known to cause disorders of the nervous system. Many people have low magnesium levels, in part because only 16% of the magnesium found in whole wheat remains in refined flour, and magnesium has been removed from most drinking water supplies. In magnesium deficiency, the nervous system's requirements for magnesium may not be met, causing damage to nerves which could manifest as depression.
Pediatric sleep disorders linked to a spectrum of health and behavior issues.
Research into pediatric sleep disorders is shedding light on the clinical and behavioral manifestations of disrupted sleep in children. Some of these manifestations are typical across all age groups, particularly in those with sleep-disordered breathing, and include snoring, restless sleep, morning headaches, difficulty waking and diminished concentration.
Dental Complications
Most people do not realize the degree of complications which can arise from dental pathology. In extreme cases, infections resulting from tooth decay or gum disease can end up in a life-threatening situation. Infections of gum tissues surrounding wisdom teeth, and abcesses secondary to traumatic injuries have the same potential. Although these cases are rare, it is very commonplace for people to suffer much pain, inconvenience, and financial impact from neglected dental problems.
Out-Patient Imaging-New Healthcare Options in the Community
Out patient imaging centers have addressed the concern for better service by treating each patient as an individual with specific needs. Patients first notice this difference when they enter the doors of the facility and encounter warm colors, an inviting atmosphere, soft music and a comfortable lobby and waiting rooms.
Where do you keep your medicine?
Although bathrooms often contain medicine cabinets, they're one of the worst places to keep medications. Moisture and heat from showers and baths can cause some drugs to breakdown, or may alter the composition of a particular dosage form. Medications should not be routinely stored in the refrigerator or freezer unless specifically recommended for the particular drug or preparation.
Pediatric Sleep Disorders Linked to a Spectrum of Health & Behavior Issues.
Research into pediatric sleep disorders is shedding light on the clinical and behavioral manifestations of disrupted sleep in children. Some of these manifestations are typical across all age groups, particularly in those with sleep-disordered breathing, and include snoring, restless sleep, morning headaches, difficulty waking and diminished concentration.
How Can I Whiten My Teeth?
Many people are unsatisfied with the color or brightness of their teeth. In recent years bleaching of teeth has become quite popular, with much emphasis placed on smile appearance through the advertising media.
Dealing With Cancer
Learning that you have cancer is a frightening moment for anyone. Finding people who can help you deal with the diagnosis can make all the difference. Fortunately for Alaskans, almost all of the needed skills and technologies are here, right now, today. As a medical oncologist who has been taking care of patients with cancer in Anchorage since 1985, I am proud of the progress that has been made in not only the research arena, but in making those advances available to Alaskans, so that they don’t have to travel outside of Alaska. Traveling outside Alaska can be a major disruption for the patient, their family and most likely, their livelihood.
Vaccines To Prevent Cervical Cancer
There are over 100 types of human papillomavirus (HPV). It is estimated that approximately 20 million Americans are infected with HPV at any given time and both women and men can transmit the infection.
Sleep Disorders Can Be Serious. They Deserve Serious, Specialized Medicine
Most physicians understand that sleep apnea is more serious than the snoring and that is often the first sign of a sleep-breathing disorder. Hypertension, cardio-vascular disease and even sudden death can be connected to sleep apnea. But that is just a tiny part of the whole story of sleep disorders and their potential impact on the health - and lives - of your patients.
The Phantom Toothache
People frequently present to the dentist complaining of pain or hypersensitivity in their upper back teeth. This may be due to a variety of causes - decay, fractures, gum infections, etc. Occasionally the dentist cannot place the blame on any of these factors, and the teeth may appear normal both visually and on x-rays. The situation can be a diagnostic dilemma for the doctor and the patient. The patient needs relief, yet the dentist would be reluctant to initiate an irreversible procedure (i.e., root canal or extraction) without convincing evidence that a particular tooth is at fault.
Dealing With Cancer
Learning that you have cancer is a frightening moment for anyone. Finding people who can help you deal with the diagnosis can make all the difference. Fortunately for Alaskans, almost all of the needed skills and technologies are here, right now, today. As a medical oncologist who has been taking care of patients with cancer in Anchorage since 1985, I am proud of the progress that has been made in not only the research arena, but in making those advances available to Alaskans, so that they don’t have to travel outside of Alaska. Traveling outside Alaska can be a major disruption for the patient, their family and most likely, their livelihood.
Therapy for the Avian Flu
Bird flu scares have generated lots of interest in supplements that claim to be helpful in preventing and treating the avian flu. Some products contain common “immunity boosters” such as vitamin C, echinacea, selenium, and zinc; others contain herbal ingredients (goji, red reishi, humic acid) purported to enhance the immune response.
Sleep Disorders Can Be Serious: They Deserve Serious, Specialized Medicine.
Most physicians understand that sleep apnea is more serious than the snoring and that is often the first sign of a sleep-breathing disorder. Hypertension, cardio-vascular disease and even sudden death can be connected to sleep apnea. But that is just a tiny part of the whole story of sleep disorders and their potential impact on the health – and lives – of your patients.
How Can I Improve My Smile?
Many people are self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth. This creates somewhat of a social handicap, resulting in embarrassment and loss of self-esteem. But, with today’s modern dental technology there is no need to suffer with this problem.
Dealing With Cancer
Learning that you have cancer is a frightening moment for anyone. Finding people who can help you deal with the diagnosis can make all the difference. Fortunately for Alaskans, almost all of the needed skills and technologies are here, right now, today. As a medical oncologist who has been taking care of patients with cancer in Anchorage since 1985, I am proud of the progress that has been made in not only the research arena, but in making those advances available to Alaskans, so that they don’t have to travel outside of Alaska. Traveling outside Alaska can be a major disruption for the patient, their family and most likely, their livelihood.
Increased Need For Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 is essential for maintaining healthy nerve cells and red blood cells, and a deficiency can cause symptoms ranging from fatigue and mild diziness to nerve damage, anemia and dementia. Unlike most vitamin, B-12 occurs naturally only in animal products including meat, fish, poultry and dairy, so vegetarians and vegans may not receive adequate amounts of B-12 in their diets.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome – More common than previously thought.
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a disorder in which complete or partial obstruction of the airway during sleep causes loud snoring, oxyhemoglobin desaturation and frequent arousals. As a result, affected persons have unrestful sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness.
Out-Patient Imaging - New Healthcare Options in the Community
Out patient imaging centers have addressed the concern for better service by treating each patient as an individual with specific needs. Patients first notice this difference when they enter the doors of the facility and encounter warm colors, an inviting atmosphere, soft music and a comfortable lobby and waiting rooms.
Narcolepsy: treating a sleepy sickness
The sight of someone dropping off to sleep in midsentence might seem humorous when portrayed in the realm of entertainment, but there is nothing funny about narcolepsy. In fact, after obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy is the second-leading cause of excessive daytime sleepiness diagnosed by sleep centers, affecting one in 2,000 people.
Protecting Your Little Ones
One of the many duties parents face is protecting their children from exposure to harmful substances such as drugs, alcohol, or tobacco. One element which unfortunately does not appear on many “black lists” is sugar. This supposedly benign substance is the cause of much grief and expense in regards to children’s (and adult’s) teeth. Most people acknowledge that excess consumption of soda or candy is detrimental to anyone’s dentition, but there are many other sources which contribute to tooth decay.
Out-Patient Imaging-New Healthcare Options in the Community
Out patient imaging centers have addressed the concern for better service by treating each patient as an individual with specific needs. Patients first notice this difference when they enter the doors of the facility and encounter warm colors, an inviting atmosphere, soft music and a comfortable lobby and waiting rooms.
Peripheral Artery Diesease
As many as 8 to 12 million Americans have Peripheral Artery Disease. Nearly 75% of these do not have any symptoms and many people mistake the symptoms of PAD for something else. PAD occurs in both men and women, but women are less likely to experience symptoms.
Pediatric sleep disorders linked to a spectrum of health & behavior issues.
Research into pediatric sleep disorders is shedding light on the clinical and behavioral manifestations of disrupted sleep in children. Some of these manifestations are typical across all age groups, particularly in those with sleep-disordered breathing, and include snoring, restless sleep, morning headaches, difficulty waking and diminished concentration.
The Benefits of Fluoride
It is not well understood by the general population how fluoride affects the teeth. This naturally occurring element has a beneficial effect on teeth via several modes of operation. To appreciate this we must understand that tooth enamel is a crystalline structure composed of various elements, primarily calcium. There are voids in the molecules which can accept any available fluoride ions, and in so doing strengthen the enamel structure.
Diagnosing Pain: Options in Radiology
Rotator cuff and knee injuries are fairly common among aging athletes stretching the limits of their once awesome physical capabilities. Activities like carrying too much weight, throwing a softball, falling while skiing and other formerly normal strains now take their toll by way of ‘aches and pains’. And all too often, the injury is just under the threshold of ‘constant pain’ and becomes ‘pain occurring when moving in a particular motion.
Stroke Prevention
Risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, and diabetes. A wellness plan for stroke prevention includes regular aerobic exercise with a goal of achieving an ideal body weight; a low fat, low carbohydrate, low salt, high fiber diet, and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables; only moderate alcohol and caffeine intake; avoidance of smoking; stress management; appropriate therapy to lower cholesterol; and proper use of nutritional supplements. These phytonutrients and herbs can promote heart health and therefore may help to prevent stroke: Coenzyme Q10, a vital nutrient that supports many critical biochemical mechanisms in the heart and blood vessels and provides for cellular energy production; folic acid which is important in homocysteine metabolism; magnesium, a mineral critical to the heart and blood vessels’ ability to relax and contract; L-caritine and taurine, amino acids which are very important to heart function; and grape seed extract, a potent antioxidant that promotes healthy blood vessels and capillaries.
Pediatric Sleep Disorders Linked to a Spectrum of Health & Behavior Issues.
Research into pediatric sleep disorders is shedding light on the clinical and behavioral manifestations of disrupted sleep in children. Some of these manifestations are typical across all age groups, particularly in those with sleep-disordered breathing, and include snoring, restless sleep, morning headaches, difficulty waking and diminished concentration.
How Can I Whiten My Teeth?
Many people are unsatisfied with the color or brightness of their teeth. In recent years bleaching of teeth has become quite popular, with much emphasis placed on smile appearance through the advertising media.
Diagnosing Pain: Options in Radiology
Rotator cuff and knee injuries are fairly common among aging athletes stretching the limits of their once awesome physical capabilities. Activities like carrying too much weight, throwing a softball, falling while skiing and other formerly normal strains now take their toll by way of 'aches and pains' and becomes 'pain occurring when moving in a particular motion.'
...About Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that causes pain and stiffness of the joints. It sometimes also causes redness or swelling. In severe cases, joints may become deformed.
Snoring Can Be More Than Annoying – It Can Be Deadly
Does your snoring register on the Richter Scale? Snoring, often laughed and joked about, can actually be a sign of a more serious condition. An estimated 10% to 30% of adults snore. Snoring indicates that your airway is not completely open and inhibits the transfer of air in and out of your lungs. The obstructions can occur at multiple sites throughout the upper airway, but often occurs behind the soft palate. As you fall asleep, muscles in your throat relax. For some individuals, this extra relaxation leads to the partial collapse of the upper airway. As the airway collapses it requires more effort to move air through the smaller passage creating a greater pull on the lateral walls of the t hroat leading to further airway collapse. This vicious cycle can lead to complete airway collapse and lead to a disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Chronic Pelvic Pain
Would you like to enjoy your fall activities without the pain of osteoarthritis?
“Why Should I Floss My Teeth?”
Pharmacists Help Consumers Use Medicines Safely and Effectively
Important Medicare News
Just How Noisy Are Those Restaurants?
Tips for Hearing Aid Users
Keep Your Hearing in Good Shape
How Do I Know Whether My Child Needs Braces?
Endometrial Ablation - “At last, an alternative to hysterectomy, for heavy menses”
Assistive Listening Devices
Smoking and smokeless tobacco
Are mercury fillings safe?
Pfizer Finds Celebrex Heart Attack Risk
Leg Vein Therapy; Varicose Veins
Why consult an Audiologist?
Muscle Cramps/Common and Often Managable
Why is dentistry so expensive?
Health Care Tip of the Week
Sexually Transmitted Cancer
Stopping a Stroke Before it Happens
Pharmacists Help Consumers Use Medicines Safely and Effectively
Amylin Diabetes drug Wins FDA Approval
What is an Audiological Evaluation?

 

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