The Women’s Health Initiative Study of 2002 has proven this to be true. Also, the World Health Organization (WHO) in a much ‘overlooked’ but very comprehensive review of the literature regarding SYNTHETIC HRT released a Monograph in 2005 proclaiming that SYNTHETIC HRT and Birth Control ARE – not maybe, or could be, or possibly – but ARE a cancer causing agent.

Does anyone remember Vioxx? It was an anti-inflammatory like Celebrex that caused several heart attacks. It was very quickly recalled by the FDA, and rightly so. I remember seeing Pharmacists on the national news pulling it off the shelves the day it was recalled. Yet, we have known cancer causing synthetic HRT products still being dispensed like aspirin. Did I miss something here? Why haven’t the SYNTHETIC HRT products been recalled and pulled from the shelves like Vioxx was?

So what does this have to do with the title of this blog, “Is Anti-Aging Medicine for Real”?

Well quite a bit, says Dr. Gary C. Bernard MD, founder of Pointe Medical Services and Live Well MD. Dr. Bernard has developed a most unique medical practice in Jacksonville, Florida. Clients come to see him from all over the United States. Over the last 9 years he has fine-tuned the practice of using BioIdentical Hormone Therapy, treatment of all kinds of hormonal imbalances, utilization of therapies that have been given the name Anti-Aging by the media, nutritional support, vitamin supplementation; plus many other treatment regimens with tremendous success.

It has been well documented and accepted in medicine that our hormones decline in production with age. That, in one view, explains why we feel so much better in our 20-30 year ages. Keeping the critical NATURAL hormones in the appropriate supply for your body, helps to keep you feeling good, functioning well, and feeling youthful. Studies have shown it may prevent many of the disease processes that develop with aging. Saying it boldly, “NATURAL hormone replacement may be an anti-aging modality.” I did say MAY BE.

Do I think we can turn back the clock, or put it on pause like a DVR? No I don’t. The clock runs the same for all of us. The importance is not in the quantity of time we have. What is important is the quality of time. Quality of life is when we feel good, have energy, are happy, can do what we want to do, and not how much time we can have hooked up to a catheter, or carry around 300 lbs of fat, or have clogged up arteries, or need a wheelchair, or even a handicapped parking sticker. Personally, I would rather have quality of life.

There are many competent BHRT and anti-aging physicians out there that really believe their treatment can pause the “DVR of Life”. And maybe they are at least heading down the correct road to achieve this lofty goal. But not yet. It has not happened yet.

At Pointe Medical Services, Inc., and Live Well MD, Dr. Gary C. Bernard has developed a broad-based protocol, utilizing his Internal Medicine background, BHRT, Vitamin Supplementation, and appropriate diet schemes to fight obesity, assessing all the medical needs of a patient in order to provide them ‘Quality of Life’. Since I have worked with him for 12 years, I have seen the very positive results of his program, just like his patients have seen. Word of mouth has built the practice, not costly advertising. I have watched him assess a patient with his 6th sense. I have seen him do a visual physical, and before the patient can express the problems he is experiencing, Dr. Bernard names off to the patient many of the issues that the patient was about to complain of. The patient’s mouth would drop, and he would proclaim to the 6th sense Doc, “You are right! I didn’t say a word and yet you know what is wrong with me!”

Throughout this post, I have emphasized SYNTHETIC versus NATURAL hormones. Pointe Medical Services, Inc. and Dr. Bernard utilize the ‘Complimentary’ approach or ‘Integrative’ approach to medical treatment. This natural medical treatment approach has had many names given by the conservative branch of medicine and the media, including the term “snake oil”. The pursuit of using natural BioIdentical hormones and other natural substances are used as much as possible. In true Complimentary medicine though, the philosophy is that you utilize whatever you need, as long as it works, and is not harmful to the patient.

It is a no-brainer to me that given the choice between quantity and quality OF LIFE, quality wins hands down.

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Heartburn is a common problem. It’s caused by the backwash of stomach acid into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth and stomach. This is formally called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). More than just a minor discomfort, heartburn can significantly reduce quality of life. “Heartburn can cause damage to the esophagus and even increase the risk of cancer if ignored and untreated,” says Dr. William Kormos, editor in chief of Harvard Men’s Health Watch and a primary care physician at Massachusetts General Hospital.

In these mid occasional cases, there are things that you can do to decrease the occurrence. The following are eight very practical ways of reducing it and reducing the occurrence of GERD without medication. The following methods were suggested by Harvard Medical School.

These eight steps can help ease heartburn.

Eat in a heartburn-smart way: Large meals put pressure on the muscle that normally helps keep stomach contents from backing up into the esophagus. The more you eat, the longer it takes for the stomach to empty, which contributes to reflux. Try smaller, more frequent meals and don’t wolf down your food.

Avoid late-night eating: Having a meal or snack within three hours of lying down to sleep can worsen reflux, causing heartburn. Leave enough time for the stomach to clear out.

Don’t exercise right after meals: Give your stomach time to empty; wait a couple of hours. But don’t just lie down either, which will worsen reflux.

Sleep on an incline: Raising your torso up a bit with a wedge-shaped cushion may ease nighttime heartburn. Wedges are available from medical supply companies and some home goods stores. Don’t just prop your head and shoulders up with pillows. Doing so can increase pressure on the stomach by curling you up at the waist.

Identify and avoid foods associated with heartburn: Common offenders include fatty foods, spicy foods, tomatoes, garlic, milk, coffee, tea, cola, peppermint, and chocolate. Carbonated beverages cause belching, which also causes reflux.

Chew sugarless gum after a meal: Chewing gum promotes salivation, which helps neutralize acid, soothes the esophagus, and washes acid back down to the stomach. Avoid peppermint gum, which may trigger heartburn more than other flavors.

Rule out medication side effects: Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any of the medications you take might cause pain resembling heartburn or contribute to reflux.

Lose weight if you need to: Being overweight puts more pressure on the stomach and pushes stomach contents into the esophagus. Tight fitting clothing and belts that come with weight gain may also be a factor.

When to consider medication:
If the lifestyle steps above don’t get heartburn under control, the most effective treatment is a type of drug called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by drastically reducing acid secretion by the stomach. You can get some PPIs over-the-counter — for example lansoprazole (Prevacid) and omeprazole (Prilosec). Others are available by prescription only.

A PPI can get heartburn under control, but many people end up taking one indefinitely. This isn’t ideal since research has linked PPIs to increased susceptibility to bacterial infection and long-term risk of hip fracture, among other potential risks.

After a PPI cools your heartburn symptoms, ask your doctor if you can taper it off and then combine good preventive measures with targeted use of other medicines to keep heartburn from returning. H2 blockers are good for this purpose. They include cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), famotidine (Pepcid), and nizatidine (Axid).

If your symptoms persist, you may need additional testing such as endoscopy. Reflux sufferers who have damage to the esophagus (esophagitis) or precancerous changes (Barrett’s esophagus) may have to take a PPI indefinitely. Heartburn, GERD, is nothing to shove off by eating a pack of Rolaids a day. If you fall in the serious or frequent category, please see your physician, it can be a sign of a life threatening situation.

Take command of your health and be your own health advocate, but do so in an educated way!

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1. What are synthetic hormones?
Synthetic hormones are made from plant progesterone and animal estrogens, but are not identical to the hormones the body makes. Synthetic hormones can be toxic because their chemical makeup cannot be properly metabolized.

2. What are bioidentical hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are an exact chemical match to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. They are made from soy, yams and other plant extracts.

3. What are the benefits of using bioidentical hormones?
For women suffering from the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, bioidentical hormones can alleviate hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, memory loss, mood swings, weight gain, and low libido. For men experiencing andropause (male menopause), bioidentical hormones can help with weight gain, decreased libido, fatigue, stress, low energy, loss of muscle mass, and increased body fat.

4. What are the side effects of using bioidentical hormones?
There are few side effects because bioidentical hormones have the same molecular structure as the hormones made naturally by the body. If the dosage of hormone is too high, side effects can occur. We closely monitor each patient to ensure proper hormone dosage.

5. Will I have an increased risk of heart disease or breast cancer if I use bioidentical hormones?
No. When prescribed and monitored by educated, licensed health professionals, bioidentical hormones do not pose the increased risks that synthetic hormones do.

6. How long will I have to take bioidentical hormones?
Each individual is unique. It depends on a number of factors including how well one’s body responds to bioidentical hormone therapy, as well as the individual’s diet, exercise habits, sleep patterns and stress levels. Some people can decrease and eventually eliminate various hormone treatments once they become balanced and experience fewer symptoms of menopause or andropause.

7. When can I expect to see the benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy?
Because everyone is unique, it varies with each person – which hormone therapy is being used, as well as what the individual’s diet, exercise habits, sleep patterns and stress levels and so on are. Some individuals will experience relief from symptoms immediately, with the majority of patients typically experiencing symptom relief within three to six months.

8. Will bioidentical hormone therapy interfere with any medications I am currently taking?
Not usually. In fact, some medications can be reduced or discontinued.

9. Are bioidentical hormones approved and regulated by the FDA?
While the ingredients in bioidentical hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and testosterone are approved by the FDA, the FDA does not approve any compounded products because of the lack of standardization. It is important to use the highest quality compounding pharmacy and ensure that they follow the most stringent guidelines and have excellent quality assurance.

10. What is a compounding pharmacy?
A compounding pharmacy is a specialized pharmacy that prepares customized medications prescribed by a licensed practitioner. The quality of the ingredients used, the expertise of the pharmacist and the quality of customer service are all critical decisions when choosing a compounding pharmacy. Pointe Medical Services uses its own compounding pharmacies that have a proven track record of safety and reliability. Click here to visit our compounding pharmacy

11. Why are compounded bioidentical hormones a better option than synthetic hormones?
Unlike synthetic hormones, compounded bioidentical hormones have a few important advantages:

• Compounded bioidentical hormones are made specifically for you in the exact dose recommended by your doctor based on your physiological needs.
• Compounded bioidentical hormones are made at the time they are prescribed, reducing the need for unnecessary additives such as fillers, binders and preservatives.

12. Do I need a prescription for bioidentical hormones?
Yes. Bioidentical hormones are medications that are made in a compounding pharmacy and require a prescription from a licensed practitioner.

13. What are the testing methods used?
We only use the serum (blood) testing method. To ensure accuracy when determining sex hormone levels, thyroid function, and others, we will draw several vials of your blood. We use only the best hormone testing facilities in the area to ensure consistent, reliable results.

14. How accurate is the testing?
Serum (Blood) Testing – Unlike salvia testing, serum testing measures the amount of hormones in the blood. Serum hormone testing identifies the amount of “free” hormone, or hormone that can easily enter a cell, and “total” hormone, or hormone that is attached to other substances in the blood stream, and sometimes a combination of both free and total hormones. This type of testing has been shown to be accurate and the results of serum hormone testing are very reliable.

15. What are the delivery methods for bioidentical hormones?
Each person is biologically different and so we offer a variety of delivery methods to ensure proper uptake including sublingual hormones, hormone cream, and injectable hormone. Our doctor will prescribe the method that best fits your specific needs.

16. What are the costs involved?
Cost will vary based on a number of factors including what type of testing is recommended, which hormones you are prescribed, and your insurance provider.

*Note: Be cautious when analyzing cost differences from one clinic to the next, as some who advertise set prices do not include follow-up testing. We only recommend tests that are pertinent to your specific situation and will truly tailor individual protocols on a patient-by-patient basis.

17. Do you take insurance?
Absolutely! We take many insurance providers including:

• Aetna
• Avmed
• Beechstreet
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Cigna
• First Health
• Great West
• Humana
• Medicare and most Medicare Replacement Plans
• PHCS
• Railroad Medicare
• Sunshine State
• Tricare Standard/Prime
• United Healthcare
• And many more…

18. How do I get started?
Request an appointment today or call Pointe Medical Services today to schedule your initial consultation. Call 904-621-8041. One of our expert physicians will spend time with you to review your medical history, physical and emotional symptoms, as well as answer any questions and address your preventive health concerns.

At your initial consultation you will have your blood drawn and sent to our blood lab or your insurance company’s lab. The results will provide Dr. Bernard with the information he needs to address any hormonal imbalance. Your physician may begin some Rx treatments at your initial office visit, dependent upon your age, health history and overall assessment needs. At your follow-up visit Dr. Bernard will review your labs and discuss the results with you, and will customize a plan of immediate action including nutrition, fitness and, if needed, bioidentical hormone therapy with possible further laboratory assessment.

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What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy is used to supplement the body with either estrogen alone or estrogen and progesterone in combination during and after menopause. Estrogen and progesterone are hormones that are produced by a woman’s ovaries. When the ovaries no longer produce adequate amounts of these hormones (as in menopause), HRT can be given to supplement the body with adequate levels of estrogen and progesterone.

Why Does the Body Need Estrogen and Progesterone?
Estrogen and progesterone together thicken the lining of the uterus, preparing it for the possible implantation of a fertilized egg. Estrogen also influences how the body uses calcium, an important mineral in the building of bones, and helps maintain healthy levels of cholesterol in the blood. Estrogen also keeps the vagina healthy.

As menopause nears, the ovaries reduce most of their production of these hormones. Lowered or fluctuating estrogen levels may cause menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, and medical conditions such as osteoporosis. Hormone therapy helps to replenish the estrogen, relieving some of the symptoms of menopause when they are moderate to severe.

Why Is Progesterone Taken?
Progesterone is used along with estrogen in women who still have their uterus. In these women, if taken without progesterone, estrogen increases the risk for cancer of the endometrium (the lining of the uterus). During a woman’s reproductive years, endometrial cells are shed during menstruation. When the endometrium is no longer shed, estrogen can cause an overgrowth of cells in the uterus, a condition that can lead to cancer.

Progesterone reduces the risk of endometrial cancer by making the endometrium shed each month. As a result, women who take progesterone may have monthly bleeding. Monthly bleeding can be lessened and, in some cases, eliminated by taking progesterone and estrogen together continuously. Women who have had a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus through surgery) usually do not need to take progesterone.

What Are the Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy?
There are two main types of hormone replacement therapy:

• Estrogen Therapy: Estrogen is taken alone. Doctors most often prescribe a low dose of estrogen to be taken as a pill or patch every day. Estrogen may also be prescribed as a cream. You should take the lowest dose of estrogen needed to relieve menopause symptoms.
• Progesterone/Progestin-Estrogen Hormone Therapy: Also called combination therapy, this form of HRT combines doses of estrogen and progesterone (progestin is a synthetic form of progesterone). Estrogen and a lower dose of progesterone also may be given continuously to prevent the regular, monthly bleeding that can occur when combination HRT is used. The current recommendation is to take the lowest dose of hormone therapy for the shortest time possible. Like all prescription medications, HRT should be re-evaluated each year.

What Menopause Symptoms Can Estrogen Relieve?
Estrogen is prescribed to relieve:

• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness that can result in painful intercourse
• Other problematic symptoms of menopause, such as night sweats and dry, itchy skin

Who Shouldn’t Take Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy is not usually recommended for women who have:

• Active or past breast cancer
• Recurrent or active endometrial cancer
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Recurrent or active blood clots
• History of stroke
• Liver disease
• Known or suspected pregnancy

Cigarette smokers should consider stopping tobacco use before taking HRT.

What Are the Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Like almost all medications, hormone replacement therapy has side effects. The most common side effects are:

• Monthly bleeding
• Irregular spotting
• Breast tenderness

Less common side effects of HRT include:

• Blood clots and stroke (rare, but the most serious risk)
• Fluid retention
• Headaches (including migraine)
• Dizziness
• Skin discoloration (brown or black patches)
• Increased breast density (making mammogram evaluation more difficult)
• Skin irritation under estrogen patch

How Can I Reduce the Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Adjusting either the dosage or the form of the medication you are taking can often reduce side effects of HRT. However, you should never make changes in your medication or stop taking it without first consulting your doctor.

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June 29, 2012 — The Supreme Court’s decision on the health care reform law left many people confused about their health insurance and what will happen in the future.

WebMD answers some of the most common questions that came in from readers after the ruling.

How does this decision affect those with a preexisting condition?
Starting in 2014, insurers will no longer legally be allowed to deny coverage to anyone because of their medical condition or charge them more for that coverage.

How will it affect people that already have good health insurance and a preexisting condition?
If you already have private insurance or you’re enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid, you will not be required to buy new or additional insurance because of the health reform law. Generally, you can stay with your current plan if you’re happy with it.

Many people who buy insurance on their own (meaning they don’t get it at work) and have a preexisting medical condition, however, have held onto pricey coverage because their health condition prevents them from switching plans. Starting in 2014, these people will have greater freedom to shop for coverage and to determine if another plan better suits their needs, because insurers will no longer be allowed to deny people coverage based on prior medical diagnoses.

How can I afford to buy health insurance if I am currently uninsured?
One of the law’s major goals is to make health insurance more affordable.

If you don’t get insurance through your job, you will be eligible to buy coverage through state-based insurance marketplaces scheduled to be up and running for open enrollment by fall 2013 for insurance coverage that will start in January 2014. To make insurance affordable for millions of Americans, tax credits will be available for people with incomes that are between 133% and 400% of the poverty level (up to $92,200 annually for a family of four in 2012).

There will also be caps placed on how much people will be required to spend in total out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance. These amounts will also be determined based on a person’s income.

“The bottom line is there is help to pay for out-of-pocket costs and help to pay for premiums,” says Mila Kofman, JD, a research professor at Georgetown University’s Health Policy Institute.

In addition, the law expands the number of people who qualify for Medicaid, the state and federal health insurance program for people with low incomes. That means millions of people who don’t qualify for Medicaid today will in 2014. An individual that makes less than $14,856 or a family of four that earns less than $30,657 will be eligible.

I thought the Supreme Court changed something about the Medicaid expansion rules.
It did. The Supreme Court’s decision now gives states the freedom to decide for themselves whether they want to expand their Medicaid program. “They don’t have to,” Kofman says.

People who live in states that choose not to participate may find themselves without insurance coverage in 2014. However, Kofman says, states will likely be under pressure from hospitals and insurance companies that rely on that money to expand their Medicaid programs to include more people.

Will procedures for seniors be limited? Is it up to a panel? Will they limit some procedures for those over 65?
No. There is absolutely nothing written into the law that aims to limit medical care for seniors. In fact, the law expands services to people over the age of 65 who have Medicare coverage.

Since the law first took effect in 2010, more than 5 million seniors who entered the gap in Part D prescription drug coverage known as the “donut hole” have saved $3.7 million on prescription drugs. The donut hole is scheduled to close completely by 2020 as a result of the law.

In addition, the law has given millions of people on Medicare access to preventive medical services, such as annual wellness visits, cholesterol, and other heart disease screenings, as well as cancer screenings including mammography and colonoscopies with no annual deductibles, co-pays, or coinsurance for these services.

How does the “tax” on the uninsured work?
Beginning in 2014, you’ll have to indicate on your tax forms whether you have health insurance (and your coverage will need to meet minimal essential benefit standards).

So, if you make more than 133% of the federal poverty limit — and right now that’s $14,856 a year for an individual and $30,657 for a family of four — the law says you must buy health insurance or pay a penalty on your taxes.

You also won’t face a penalty for not buying health insurance if you are a member of a religion that’s opposed to health care, like the Christian Scientists, for example; you’re a member of an Indian tribe; you’re an illegal immigrant; or you’re in jail.

There’s also no penalty to pay if you don’t make enough money to file a tax return, or if buying health insurance would cost more than 8% of your income, after taking into account any employer contributions or tax credits.

Some people will be exempt from having to buy insurance or pay the tax on the basis of financial hardship, including people making just $9,500 a year.

If you don’t fall into one of those groups, you’ll need to buy insurance.

And remember that many people with low incomes will for the first time get health insurance through Medicaid (meaning they won’t pay a premium).

What if I Still Don’t Want to Buy Insurance?
If you choose not to buy health insurance, you’ll owe an additional amount on your taxes.

In 2014, the fee will be $95 per adult and $47.50 per child up to $285 per family, or 1% of family income, whichever is greater. Those fees more than triple in 2015; and by 2016, adults who don’t buy insurance will owe $695 and $347.50 per child, up to $2,085 per family, or 2.5% of family income, whichever is greater.

The good news for people who already buy their own health insurance — an estimated 18 million Americans — is that they will be able to get better coverage, and it may cost less, says Sara Collins, PhD, vice president for Affordable Health Insurance at the Commonwealth Fund, a private foundation and health research group.

“That is something to look forward to, a big difference for people who are buying on their own,” Collins says.

Other experts agree.

“There are many wonderful effects of this law that standardize what the product of health insurance is,” says Andrew Bindman, MD, a professor of medicine, health policy, epidemiology, and biostatistics at the University of California, San Francisco.

The law will “create a mechanism, akin to a farmers market” to allow individuals to more easily compare prices and products, “and having that competition, the price of the product will come down.”

For example, most insurance companies don’t offer maternity coverage to women who buy their own health insurance. Starting in 2014, the ACA makes maternity coverage standard on all plans.

It also mandates that insurance companies offer benefit packages that cover treatment for mental health concerns, such as depression, and for substance abuse. That means your plan will pay at least part of the cost if you want to see a psychologist or psychiatrist.

Will my costs go up as a result of the law?
That’s a point up for debate, and the answer you get will likely depend on who you ask. An Urban Institute study, for example, found that by eliminating insurers’ ability to charge people more on the basis of age, small-group markets and individuals will see their premiums rise by as much as $1,400 for people between the ages of 18 and 34 and $800 for people aged 35 to 44.

However, Kofman points out that the law requires insurers to spend at least 80% of the premiums they collect on medical care. This summer, insurers will be returning money to nearly 13 million people who were overcharged for their coverage. “That alone has constrained premiums in many states,” Kofman says.

There are other aspects of the law as well, according to Kofman, designed to keep premiums stable so consumers don’t experience a huge jump in prices.

What happens to my under-26-year-old child who is currently on my health insurance plan?
The provision of the Affordable Care Act that allows adult children to stay on their parents’ health plan until their 26th birthday does not change as a result of the Supreme Court’s ruling. Your child can continue to gain coverage through you.
Will small business employers be required to provide health insurance, or can they force employees to go buy their own?

Starting by 2014, businesses that employ 100 or fewer workers will be able to buy insurance through an insurance marketplace, or exchange. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the insurance small businesses buy through an exchange “would have lower administrative costs, on average, than the policies those firms would buy under current law, particularly for very small firms.”

Also keep in mind that if you run a small business that employs fewer than 25 workers earning less than $50,000 a year, and you pay for at least half of your employees’ health insurance costs, you may qualify for a tax credit of up to 35%. Starting in 2014, those credits increase to 50%.

What about illegal immigrants?
Insurance coverage will not be extended to people who are in this country illegally. And there will be mechanisms by which states will be able to verify the lawful status of someone applying for insurance coverage through one of the exchanges. “There will be a pretty vigorous process to go through to make sure coverage is only being offered to people here legally,” Kofman says.

How does the ACA affect those who are treated through the VA?
The health reform law does not make any significant changes to TRICARE or Veterans Affairs coverage. So, if you’re an active or retired member of the military, your current coverage will not be impacted. Also, you will not be required to purchase any additional insurance coverage. (That goes for people with a combination of Medicare and TRICARE coverage as well.)

Will Catholic hospitals/colleges be forced to pay for contraception or abortions?
Starting in August of this year Catholic hospitals, colleges, and other employers will have to offer free preventive care, which includes birth control, through the insurance they offer employees.

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Experts say that men could benefit greatly by being alert to certain cancer symptoms that require a trip to the doctor’s office sooner rather than later. But when it comes to scheduling doctor visits, men are notorious foot-draggers. In fact, some men, would never go to the doctor if it weren’t for the women in their life.

Leonard Lichtenfeld, MD, is deputy chief medical officer for the national office of the American Cancer Society. According to Lichtenfeld, men often need to be pushed by women to get screened for cancer. That’s unfortunate. Routine preventive care can find cancer and other diseases in their early stages. When cancer is found early, there are more options for treatment. That means there are also better chances for a cure.

Some cancer symptoms in men are specific. They involve certain body parts and may point directly to the possibility of cancer. Other symptoms, though, are vague. For instance, pain that affects many body parts could have many explanations. It may or may not be a sign of cancer. But you can’t rule cancer out without seeing a doctor.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 1: Breast Mass
If you’re like most men, you’ve probably never considered the possibility of having breast cancer. Although it’s not common, it is possible. “Any new mass in the breast area of a man needs to be checked out by a physician,” Lichtenfeld says.

In addition, the American Cancer Society identifies several other worrisome signs involving the breast that men as well as women should take note of. They include:

» Skin dimpling or puckering
» Nipple retraction
» Redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin
» Nipple discharge

When you consult your physician about any of these signs, expect him to take a careful history and do a physical exam. Then, depending on the findings, the doctor may order a mammogram, a biopsy, or other tests.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 2: Pain
As they age, people often complain of increasing aches and pains. But pain, as vague as it may be, can be an early symptom of some cancers. Most pain complaints, though, are not from cancer.

Any pain that persists, according to the American Cancer Society, should be checked out by your physician. The doctor should take a careful history, get more details, and then decide whether further testing is necessary. If it’s not cancer, you will still benefit from the visit to the office. That’s because the doctor can work with you to find out what’s causing the pain and determine the proper treatment.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 3: Changes in the Testicles
Testicular cancer occurs most often in men aged 20 to 39. The American Cancer Society recommends that men get a testicular exam by a doctor as part of a routine cancer-related checkup. Some doctors also suggest a monthly self-exam.

Evan Y. Yu , MD, is assistant professor of medicine at the University of Washington and assistant member of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle. Yu tells WebMD that being aware of troublesome testicular symptoms between examinations is wise. “Any change in the size of the testicles, such as growth or shrinkage,” Yu says, “should be a concern.”

In addition, any swelling, lump, or feeling of heaviness in the scrotum should not be ignored. Some testicular cancers occur very quickly. So early detection is especially crucial. “If you feel a hard lump of coal [in your testicle], get it checked right away,” Yu says.

Your doctor should do a testicular exam and an overall assessment of your health. If cancer is suspected, blood tests may be ordered. You may also undergo an ultrasound examination of your scrotum, and your doctor may decide to do a biopsy. A biopsy requires the removal of the entire testicle.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 4: Changes in the Lymph Nodes
If you notice a lump or swelling in the lymph nodes under your armpit or in your neck — or anywhere else — it could be a reason for concern, says Hannah Linden, MD. Linden is a medical oncologist and an associate professor of medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine. She is also a joint associate member of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle. “If you have a lymph node that gets progressively larger, and it’s been longer than a month, see a doctor,” she says.

Your doctor should examine you and determine any associated issues that could explain the lymph node enlargement, such as infection. If there is no infection, a doctor will typically order a biopsy.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 5: Fever
If you’ve got an unexplained fever, it may indicate cancer. Fever, though, might also be a sign of pneumonia or some other illness or infection that needs treatment.

Most cancers will cause fever at some point. Often, fever occurs after the cancer has spread from its original site and invaded another part of the body. Fever can also be caused by blood cancers such as lymphoma or leukemia, according to the American Cancer Society.

It’s best not to ignore a fever that can’t be explained. Check with your doctor to find out what might be causing the fever and to determine its proper treatment.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 6: Weight Loss Without Trying
Unexpected weight loss is a concern, Lichtenfeld says. “Most of us don’t lose weight easily.” He’s talking about more than simply a few pounds from a stepped up exercise program or to eating less because of a busy schedule. If a man loses more than 10% of his body weight in a time period of 3 to 6 months, it’s time to see the doctor, he says.

Your doctor should do a general physical exam, ask you questions about your diet and exercise, and ask about other symptoms. Based on that information, the doctor will decide what other tests are needed.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 7: Gnawing Abdominal Pain and Depression
“Any man (or woman) who’s got a pain in the abdomen and is feeling depressed needs a checkup,” says Lichtenfeld. Experts have found a link between depression and pancreatic cancer. Other symptoms of pancreas cancer may include jaundice, a change in stool color — often gray — a darkening of the urine. Itching over the whole body may also occur.

Expect your doctor to do a careful physical exam and take a history. The doctor should order tests such as an ultrasound, a CT scan or both, as well as other laboratory tests.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 8: Fatigue
Fatigue is another vague symptom that could point to cancer in men. But many other problems could cause fatigue as well. Like fever, fatigue can set in after the cancer has grown. But according to the American Cancer Society, it may also happen early in cancers such as leukemia, colon cancer, or stomach cancer.

If you often feel extremely tired and you don’t get better with rest, check with your doctor. The doctor should evaluate the fatigue along with any other symptoms in order to determine its cause and the proper treatment.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 9: Persistent Cough
Coughs are expected, of course, with colds, the flu, and allergies. They are also sometimes a side effect of a medication. But a very prolonged cough — defined as lasting more than three or four weeks — or a change in a cough should not be ignored, says Ranit Mishori, MD, assistant professor and director of the family medicine clerkship at Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. Those cough patterns warrant a visit to the doctor. They could be a symptom of cancer, or they could indicate some other problem such as chronic bronchitis or acid reflux.

Your doctor should take a careful history, examine your throat, listen to your lungs, determine their function with a spirometry test, and, if you are a smoker, order X-rays. Once the reason for the coughing is identified, the doctor will work with you to determine a treatment plan.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 10: Difficulty Swallowing
Some men may report trouble swallowing but then ignore it, Lichtenfeld says. “Over time, they change their diet to a more liquid diet. They start to drink more soup.” But swallowing difficulties, he says, may be a sign of a GI cancer, such as cancer of the esophagus.

Let your doctor know if you are having trouble swallowing. Your doctor should take a careful history and possibly order a chest X-ray and a barium swallow. The doctor may also send you to a specialist for an upper GI endoscopy to examine your esophagus and upper GI tract.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 11: Changes in the Skin
You should be alert to not only changes in moles — a well-known sign of potential skin cancer — but also changes in skin pigmentation, says Mary Daly, MD. Daly is an oncologist and head of the department of clinical genetics at the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia.

Daly also says that suddenly developing bleeding on your skin or excessive scaling are reasons to check with your doctor. It’s difficult to say how long is too long to observe skin changes, but most experts say not to wait longer than several weeks.

To find out what’s causing the skin changes, your doctor should take a careful history and perform a careful physical exam. The doctor may also order a biopsy to rule out cancer.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 12: Blood Where It Shouldn’t Be
“Anytime you see blood coming from a body part where you’ve never seen it before, see a doctor,” Lichtenfeld says. “If you start coughing up blood, spitting up blood, have blood in the bowel or in the urine, it’s time for a doctor visit.”

Mishori says it’s a mistake to assume blood in the stool is simply from a hemorrhoid. “It could be colon cancer,” he says.

Your doctor should ask you questions about your symptoms. The doctor may also order tests such as a colonoscopy. This is an examination of the colon using a long flexible tube with a camera on one end. The purpose of a colonoscopy is to identify any signs of cancer or precancer or identify any other causes of the bleeding.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 13: Mouth Changes
If you smoke or chew tobacco, you need to be especially alert for any white patches inside your mouth or white spots on your tongue. Those changes may indicate leukoplakia, a pre-cancerous area that can occur with ongoing irritation. This condition can progress to oral cancer.

You should report the changes to your doctor or dentist. The dentist or doctor should take a careful history, examine the changes, and then decide what other tests might be needed.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 14: Urinary Problems
As men age, urinary problems become more frequent, says Yu. Those problems include the following:

» The urge to urinate more often, especially at night
» A sense of urgency
» A feeling of not completely emptying the bladder
» An inability to start the urine stream
» Urine leaking when laughing or coughing
» A weakening of the urine stream

“Every man will develop these problems as he gets older,” Yu says. “But once you notice these symptoms, you should seek medical attention.” That’s especially true if the symptoms get worse.

Your doctor should do a digital rectal exam, which will tell him whether the prostate gland is enlarged or has nodules on it. The prostate gland enlarges as a man ages. It’s most often caused by a noncancerous condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH.

Your doctor should also order a blood test to check the level of prostate-specific antigen or PSA. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and the test is used to help determine the possibility of prostate cancer.

If the doctor notices abnormalities in the prostate or if the PSA is higher than it should be, your doctor may refer you to a urologist and perhaps order a biopsy. Prostate cancer may be present even with a normal PSA level.

Cancer Symptom in Men No. 15: Indigestion
Many men, especially as they get older, think “heart attack” when they get bad indigestion. But persistent indigestion may point to cancer of the esophagus, throat, or stomach. Persistent or worsening indigestion should be reported to your doctor.

Your doctor should take a careful history and ask questions about the indigestion episodes. Based on the history and your answers to the questions, the doctor will decide what tests are needed.

The post 15 Cancer Symptoms Men Ignore appeared first on Pointe Medical Services.

Negative ions are odorless, tasteless, and invisible molecules that we inhale in abundance in certain environments, such as mountains, waterfalls, and beaches. Once they reach our bloodstream, negative ions are believed to produce biochemical reactions that increase levels of the mood chemical serotonin, helping to alleviate depression, relieve stress, and boost our daytime energy.

And these are a few of the reasons we see negative ion products being sold in stores and all over the Internet.

Ions 101
Ions are molecules that have gained or lost an electrical charge. They are created in nature as air molecules break apart due to sunlight, radiation, and moving air and water. You may have experienced the power of negative ions when you walk on the beach or stood underneath a waterfall. While part of the euphoria is being around these wondrous settings, the air circulating in the mountains and the beach is said to contain tens of thousands of negative ions — Much more than the average home or office building.

“The action of the pounding surf creates negative air ions and we also see it immediately after spring thunderstorms when people report lightened moods,” says ion researcher Michael Terman, PhD, of Columbia University in New York.
Columbia University studies of people with winter and chronic depression show that negative ion generators relieve depression as much as antidepressants. “The best part is that there are relatively no side effects, but we still need to figure out appropriate doses and which people it works best on,” he says.

Vitamins of the Air?
Negative ions increase the flow of oxygen to the brain; resulting in higher alertness, decreased drowsiness, and more mental energy,” says Pierce J. Howard, PhD, author of The Owners Manual for the Brain: Everyday Applications from Mind Brain Research and director of research at the Center for Applied Cognitive Sciences in Charlotte, N.C.

“They also may protect against germs in the air, resulting in decreased irritation due to inhaling various particles that make you sneeze, cough, or have a throat irritation.”

And for a whopping one in three of us who are sensitive to their effects, negative ions can make us feel like we are walking on air. You are one of them if you feel instantly refreshed the moment you open a window and breathe in fresh, humid air.

“You may be one of them if you feel sleepy when you are around an air-conditioner, but feel immediately refreshed and invigorated when you step outside or roll down the car window,” Howard says. “Air conditioning depletes the atmosphere of negative ions, but an ion generator re-releases the ions that air conditioners remove.”

Ions On The Move
Now with the emergence of negative ion products such as sports bands, fashionable bracelets, shoe inserts, and more, you can have the effects of negative ions wherever you go – by wearing them.

You can purchase negative ion sports bands and bracelets at either of our offices.

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Ginseng, Fish, Berries, or Caffeine?

Listen to the buzz about foods and dietary supplements and you’ll believe they can do everything from sharpen focus and concentration, to enhance memory, attention span, and brain function.

But do they really work? There’s no denying that as we age chronologically, our body ages right along with us. The good news is that you can increase your chances of maintaining a healthy brain — if you add “smart” foods and beverages to your diet.

Caffeine Can Make You More Alert

There’s no magic bullet to boost IQ or make you smarter — but certain substances, like caffeine, can energize and help you focus and concentrate. Found in coffee, chocolate, energy drinks, and some medications, caffeine gives you that unmistakable wake-up buzz — though the effects are short term. And more is often less: Overdo it on caffeine and it can make you jittery and uncomfortable.

Sugar Can Enhance Alertness

Sugar is your brain’s preferred fuel source — not table sugar, but glucose, which your body metabolizes from the sugars and carbohydrates you eat. That’s why a glass of something sweet to drink can offer a short-term boost to memory, thinking processes, and mental ability.

Consume too much, however, and memory can be impaired — along with the rest of you. Go easy on the sugar so it can enhance memory, without packing on the pounds.

Eat Breakfast to Fuel Your Brain

Tempted to skip breakfast? Studies have found that eating breakfast may improve short-term memory and attention. Students who eat breakfast tend to perform significantly better than those who don’t. Foods at the top of researchers’ brain fuel list include high-fiber whole grains, dairy, and fruits. Just don’t overeat; researchers also found high-calorie breakfasts appear to hinder concentration.

Fish Really is Brain Food

A protein source associated with a great brain boost is fish — rich in omega 3 fatty acids, essential for brain function and development. These healthy fats have amazing brain power: higher dietary omega 3 fatty acids are linked to lower dementia and stroke risks; slower mental decline; and may play a vital role in enhancing memory, especially as we get older.

For brain and heart health, eat two servings of fish weekly.

Add a Daily Dose of Nuts and Chocolate

Nuts and seeds are good sources of the antioxidant vitamin E, which is associated with less cognitive decline as you age. Dark chocolate also has other powerful antioxidant properties. And it contains natural stimulants like caffeine, which can enhance focus and concentration.

Enjoy up to an ounce a day of nuts and dark chocolate to provide all the benefits you need without excess calories, fat, or sugar.

Add Avocados and Whole Grains

Every organ in the body depends on blood flow, especially the heart and brain. Eating a diet high in whole grains and fruits like avocados can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and lower bad cholesterol. This reduces your risk of plaque buildup and enhances blood flow, offering a simple, tasty way to fire up brain cells.

Whole grains, like popcorn and whole wheat, also contribute dietary fiber and vitamin E. Though avocados have fat, it’s the good-for-you, monounsaturated fat that contributes to healthy blood flow.

Blueberries Are Super Nutritious

Research in animals shows that blueberries may help protect the brain from the damage caused by free radicals and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Studies also show that diets rich in blueberries significantly improved both the learning and muscle function of aging rats, making them mentally equivalent to much younger rats.

Benefits of a Healthy Diet

It may sound trite but it’s true: If your diet lacks essential nutrients, it can decrease your ability to concentrate. Eating too much or too little can also interfere with your ability to focus. A heavy meal may make you feel lethargic, while too few calories can result in distracting hunger pangs.

Benefit your brain: Strive for a well-balanced diet full of a wide variety of healthy, wholesome foods.

Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements?

Store shelves groan with supplements claiming to boost health. Although many of the reports on the brain-boosting power of supplements like vitamins B, C, E, beta-carotene, and magnesium are promising, a supplement is only useful to people whose diets are lacking in that specific nutrient.

Researchers are cautiously optimistic about ginseng, ginkgo, and vitamin, mineral, and herb combinations and their impact on the brain.

Check with your doctor.

Get Ready for a Big Day

Want to power up your ability to concentrate? Start with a meal of 100% fruit juice, a whole grain bagel with salmon, and a cup of coffee. In addition to eating a well-balanced meal, experts also advise:

» Get a good night’s sleep.
» Stay hydrated.
» Exercise to help sharpen thinking.
» Meditate to clear thinking and relax.

The post Brain Foods That Help You Concentrate appeared first on Pointe Medical Services.

» Low sex drive and infertility
» Development of “moobs” or male breasts, sometimes with painful swelling
» Shrunken testicles
» Erectile dysfunction
» Hot flashes
» Osteopenia\osis
» Anemia
» Depression\anger\foggy thinking

By the way, balding is NOT one of the symptoms of a low testosterone level – more often than not, you can chalk that male pesky problem up to genetics though the loss of hair on other parts of the body can be a sign of low testosterone.

Treatment: Injections, pellets, pills, creams, and patches are typical treatment options for those who have been diagnosed with low testosterone, but surprisingly most men who suffer from andropause don’t know they have it or think about seeking medical advice because they attribute their symptoms to the aging process. There are some potential concerns about testosterone replacement surgery, especially for men who have a history of breast or prostate cancer.

Diet and lifestyle tips:

Diet can affect testosterone levels to a certain extent, but most men who meet the criteria of low testosterone will most likely require more reliable medical treatment. Still, these tips could prove helpful:

1. Don’t drink too much! Alcohol helps in the conversion of testosterone to estrogen so it’s best to heed the American Heart Association recommendations of no more than two alcoholic beverages a day — unless you want to sport male breasts.

2. Watch the belly fat. Men with type II diabetes and those diagnosed with metabolic syndrome (a combination of risk factors such as larger waists, elevated blood glucose, high blood pressure, and high triglycerides) are much more likely to have low testosterone levels. It’s a vicious cycle – low testosterone increases belly fat and belly fat drives down testosterone production.

3. Lean on protein: Include adequate quantities of high-quality protein from dairy and lean meat, which can also help increase testosterone. Ranges of 1.0-1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight may be more appropriate.

4. Go “mono y mono”: Include more monounsaturated fat sources like avocado, canola and olive oil, and almonds, which have been shown to boost resting levels of testosterone.

5. Eat Zinc and copper-rich foods. Zinc and copper boost testosterone levels and also help in increasing the quality and quantity of sperm. Foods like oysters, beef, crab, pork, turkey, mushrooms, and chocolate are great sources of zinc and copper.

So guys, if any of those signs of low testosterone pop up in your life, be sure to have a talk with your doctor. In the meantime, include those manly foods I mentioned…yes, that’s right, chocolate is a man’s food, too!

By David Grotto, RD, LDN

The post Time To Man Up? appeared first on Pointe Medical Services.

It is important to remember that BMD cannot predict the certainty of developing a fracture. It can only predict risk. It is important to note that a bone density scan, or test, should not be confused with a bone scan, which is a nuclear medicine test that is used to detect tumors, cancer, fractures, and infections in the bone.

Premenopausal Osteoporosis
Did you know that eight out of every 10 cases of osteoporosis occur in women? While a woman’s risk of developing osteoporosis increases with age — and menopause is a key risk factor for osteoporosis — premenopausal osteoporosis or bone loss that happens before menopause is not uncommon and can result in painful, debilitating fractures.

The World Health Organization is the source of the commonly accepted definitions for osteoporosis (WHO Technical Report Series #843, Geneva 1994):

Normal: A value for BMD statistically within 1 standard deviation of the young adult peak bone mass. The report shows a T score between +1 and -1, signifying a BMD within the normal range.

Low bone mass (medically termed osteopenia): A value for BMD greater than 1 standard deviation but less than 2.5 standard deviations below that of an average young adult. The report shows a T score between -1 and -2.5, which signifies an increased fracture risk but does not meet the criteria for osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis: A value for BMD 2.5 or greater standard deviations below that of the average peak young adult bone mass. BMD in this range signifies an even higher fracture risk than osteopenia. The report shows a T score of -2.5 or lower.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that 10 million people in the U.S. have osteoporosis and nearly 34 million more have osteopenia, which puts them at greater risk for osteoporosis.

Call us at (904) 276-5700 to schedule a Bone Density Scan.

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