- Heart CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogYour heart is more than just a muscle—it’s the engine that keeps your body running. With every beat, it pumps oxygen-rich blood to your organs. But what happens when this vital system starts to break down? Heart disease can develop quietly, showing only subtle signs before becoming a serious threat. A new report by the American Heart Association reveals cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. The tricky part? The early warning signs aren’t always obvious and can vary based on factors like age and gender. Recognizing them early could make all the difference Types of Heart Disease Heart disease is an umbrella term for several conditions that affect the heart’s ability to function properly. The most common is coronary artery disease (CAD), which occurs when the blood vessels in your heart narrow, making it harder for blood to flow properly. However, heart disease isn’t just about clogged arteries. Faulty heart valves can force the heart to work harder, while electrical malfunctions can cause arrhythmias—irregular heartbeats that may lead to blood clots, strokes, or heart failure. Some people are also born with congenital heart disease, which affects the heart’s structure from birth. Understanding these conditions is the first step, but recognizing the symptoms and catching them early is crucial to protecting your heart health. Early Warning Signs of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) CAD makes it harder for blood to reach your heart and other parts of your body. If the artery blockage is severe, it puts you at risk of a heart attack. CAD/heart attack warning signs include: Chest pain or tightness (often described as sharp, squeezing, or a feeling of pressure, like an elephant sitting on your chest). Pain in your jaw, neck, throat, upper belly, back, or one or both arms. Unusual fatigue or shortness of breath (especially in women). Cold sweats, often with nausea or lightheadedness (more common in women). Women are more likely to have “silent” heart disease, meaning they may not experience obvious symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they are often mistaken for the flu, stress, or simply the effects of aging. Unlike men, who typically experience chest pain during physical activity, women are more likely to feel discomfort while resting. The risk of CAD increases for women around age 50, when estrogen's protective effects decline, while men typically see their risk rise in their 40s. Early Warning Signs of Heart Rhythm Problems (Arrhythmia) Arrhythmias cause your heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Symptoms can include: A fluttering feeling in your chest. A racing heartbeat. Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Shortness of breath. Chest pain (though it’s not always the main symptom). Early Warning Signs of Heart Valve Problems Your heart has four valves that open and close to keep blood moving. Issues with these valves—whether they’re narrowing, leaking, or not closing properly—can cause: Fatigue or a lack of energy. Shortness of breath. Swollen ankles and feet (from fluid buildup). Dizziness or fainting. Chest pain (though it’s not a common early symptom). Don’t Wait to See a Doctor If you notice any heart disease symptoms, it’s important to see your primary care doctor right away. They might refer you to a cardiologist, who might prescribe heart medications, create treatment plans, and, if needed, refer you to a specialist or surgeon for advanced care. To learn more about our cardiology services or to schedule an appointment, visit Luminis.Health/Cardiology or call (443) 481-6700. Taking care of your heart starts with understanding it—don’t ignore the warning signs! Authors Dr. Salvatore Lauria, MD, is a board-certified invasive cardiologist with a special interest in congestive heart failure and preventive medicine.
- Cancer Care, WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogSandra Massey’s journey with cervical cancer began more than 30 years ago. As a mother of two young daughters, she worried that cancer could take her away from her children—just as she lost her father to cancer at the age of 11. Doctors suggested surgery to remove her cervix, but Sandra hoped to have more children and was not open to that option. Instead, in 1989, she underwent a cone biopsy. Since then, she has been diligent about visiting her doctor every year and staying up to date on screenings. She also welcomed two more children. Despite her commitment to her health, the cancer returned. In June 2023, Sandra received the news that she had stage 4 cervical cancer. “It felt like my life was turned upside down,” Sandra recalls. The day after her diagnosis, she met with Dr. Nicholas Lambrou, Chief of Gynecologic Oncology. “It was meant to be,” Sandra says of meeting Dr. Lambrou. “He and his team gave me so much hope when I needed it most.” Sandra’s treatment plan involved receiving chemotherapy every three weeks for about five months. Then she transitioned to maintenance infusions using immunotherapy. Throughout treatment, Sandra’s four children and three grandchildren provided support. They accompanied her to appointments and ensured she had meals and snacks to help maintain her strength and weight. Today, Sandra continues to work in sales and cherishes every moment with her family. “My grandchildren are the light of my life,” she says. Recently, they enjoyed a Sunday outing together, watching a movie and trying a new restaurant—a tradition they uphold nearly every weekend. Sandra’s resilience and the support of her loved ones have been instrumental in her journey. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer, please visit our webpage at Luminis Health Gynecologic Oncology or call 443-481-3493 to schedule an appointment today.
- Surgery, WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIf you’re one of the millions of people suffering from chronic back and neck pain, figuring out how to get relief can feel like, well.....a pain in the neck! From lifestyle changes to medications, several approaches can help. But when chronic back and neck pain interferes with your daily life and keeps you from the activities you love, it may be time to talk to your doctor about other options, including surgery. Understanding your options for treatment and working with a specialist who will build a treatment plan just for you can make the process less overwhelming. Understanding causes of chronic back and neck pain The CDC says nearly 40 percent of U.S. adults report having back pain. Neck pain impacts fewer people but is still common, affecting 15 percent of the population. Pain can range from dull and constant to sharp and sudden, and typically, lifestyle changes and traditional therapies help. However, chronic back and neck pain — which lasts for months or even years — is usually caused by a specific event like an accident or fall, or changes in the spine due to age or a medical condition, and often requires surgery. The right treatment for you depends on the cause of your pain. Your doctor will conduct a full examination, including diagnostic tests like X-rays and scans, to better pinpoint the source of your pain, so they can best treat it. Lifestyle changes In some cases, you can improve back and neck pain with lifestyle changes, such as: Eating an anti-inflammatory diet that includes calcium and vitamin D for strong bones Maintaining a healthy body weight to reduce stress and strain on your neck and spine Practicing good posture when sitting or standing Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees Staying active with regular exercise to increase strength and balance Wearing comfortable shoes with a low heel If pain limits your daily activities, a physical or occupational therapist can help you learn how to move safely. And while bed rest may seem like a good idea when you don’t feel your best, it’s important to note that it can make back and neck pain worse. Traditional and complementary approaches Your doctor may recommend additional back and neck pain treatment, including over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, pain medications or muscle relaxers. In addition to traditional treatments, you may also benefit from complementary approaches such as tai chi and yoga. Surgery If you’ve tried everything else and are still in pain, surgery may provide relief. Surgical approaches to relieve neck and back pain range from minimally invasive to more complex open surgeries, and include: Fusing portions of the spine Removing bone spurs of the vertebrae of your spine Removing part of a herniated disc to relieve pressure Replacing damaged discs Stimulating the spinal cord Widening areas of the spine to relieve pressure on nerves Before surgery, one of our neurosurgeons will give you a thorough evaluation to make sure you’re a good candidate. They’ll review your medical history, the cause of your pain, your symptoms and your level of support after surgery. Your doctor will review the risks and benefits of the procedure with you so you can make an informed choice. Each surgery is tailored to the individual and their lifestyle and activity goals. Expert care for your chronic pain is within reach If you haven’t been able to find relief from chronic back or neck pain, reach out to Luminis Health Neurosurgery today. We’re ready to help you find relief from your pain and get you back to feeling your best. Authors Dr. Christopher Taleghani is internationally recognized as a leading minimally invasive surgeon specializing in complex spine and brain conditions. At Luminis Health, Dr. Taleghani treats disorders of the brain, nervous system, and spinal nerves.
- Wellness, Heart CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogNothing says Valentine’s Day like a box of chocolate. But this Feb. 14, treat your loved one to the rich, health-boosting benefits of dark chocolate. Chew on this: chocolate—specifically dark chocolate—has gained attention in recent years for its impressive health benefits. A new study backs this up, revealing that eating just a few servings of dark chocolate each week can help reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Specifically, the study found that people who ate at least five servings of dark chocolate a week had a 21 percent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those who rarely or never ate dark chocolate. What’s more, the more dark chocolate they consumed, the better the outcome, with each additional serving reducing the risk by another 3 percent. But it’s not all good news. The study found no similar benefits for milk chocolate. In fact, it linked milk chocolate consumption to long-term weight gain—a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. So, what makes dark chocolate stand out from its milk counterpart? In a word: a lot. Big benefits of dark chocolate According to the American Heart Association, a standard bar of dark chocolate with 70 percent to 85 percent cacao (cocoa in its raw, less-processed form) contains about 600 calories and 24 grams of sugar. Milk chocolate, on the other hand, packs roughly the same calories, but double the sugar content. Most dark chocolate is also rich in flavonoids—especially a subtype called flavanols, which have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Cocoa beans are naturally high in flavanols, and since dark chocolate contains more cocoa than other types of chocolate, it also packs more flavanols (Flavanols can also be found in tea, red wine, apples and berries.) As antioxidants, flavanols play a key role in producing nitric oxide, which helps relax blood vessels, improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. They also support a balanced immune system and have a positive impact on brain function, boosting reaction time and memory. Dark chocolate’s lesser-known health benefits While heart health, brain function, and immune support grab the spotlight, dark chocolate also offers other surprising health benefits, such as: Enhanced mood Dark chocolate may increase feelings of pleasure and enjoyment. A 2022 study found that people who ate 85 percent dark chocolate daily maintained a better overall mood than those who ate chocolate with less or no cocoa. Improved workouts Because flavanols promote the production of nitric oxide in the blood, eating dark chocolate can reduce the amount of oxygen you use while exercising, meaning you can work out for longer. Sun protection Eating dark chocolate may protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) ray damage. Reduced stress Eating dark chocolate can reduce levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Dark chocolate is also rich in fiber and packed with important minerals like copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, which among other things, help boost immunity, support bone health, improve sleep quality and help maintain energy levels. Facts to remember Still, there are a few things to keep in mind about dark chocolate, such as: The higher the cocoa content, the better. Aim for dark chocolate that’s at least 70 percent cacao. Always check the nutrition label. You can counteract the benefits if the chocolate is high in calories, fat and sugar. Type 2 diabetes affects millions of Americans. According to the latest data, more than 38 million people, about 1 in 10, have diabetes, with 90 to 95 percent of them having type 2 diabetes. Even more concerning about 98 million Americans, or 1 in 3—have prediabetes, which can lead to type 2 diabetes if left untreated. The good news is prediabetes is reversible, and with lifestyle changes, like maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active, you can delay or even prevent most cases of type 2 diabetes. And maybe, by eating more dark chocolate. Author Colleen Kiley, MS, RD, is a lead diabetes educator for Luminis Health Diabetes and Endocrine Specialists. To make an appointment, please call 443-481-6700.
- Cancer Care, Digestive CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIn recent years, researchers and doctors have observed a troubling trend: colorectal cancer, which includes colon and rectal cancer, is on the rise among millennials and Generation Z (Gen Z). With so much at stake, it’s important to understand how you can lower your risk and recognize symptoms. Discussing your bowel movements with your doctor—even if it feels embarrassing—could save your life. What Millennials and Gen Zers Should Know Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among both women and men in the United States. In 2019, the American Cancer Society found that 20 percent of new colorectal cancer cases were diagnosed in people 54-years-old or younger. Some researchers suggest that obesity and alcohol consumption—risk factors now more common in younger adults—may be contributing to the rise. Scientists are also investigating the link between environmental chemicals and colorectal cancer. So, what does this mean for millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) and Gen Zers (born between 1997 and 2012)? It’s more crucial than ever to be aware of the risk factors and make lifestyle changes to lower your risk. Ways to Lower Your Risk Having a risk factor for colorectal cancer doesn’t mean you’ll develop the disease, but it does increase your chances. Some factors are beyond your control, including: Age: While more young adults are being diagnosed, colorectal cancer is still more common in people over 50. Certain genetic syndromes Personal or family history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease Personal history of radiation treatment around the pelvis or abdomen However, there are many risk factors you can reduce by committing to a healthier lifestyle. Here are a few examples of beneficial lifestyle changes: Get regular screenings. Colorectal cancer screening should begin at age 45. Several types of screenings are available including colonoscopy and stool based testing like Cologuard. Talk to your doctor about which screening method is right for you. Move more and eat healthier. Diets high in red and processed meats are linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Instead, eat more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, five days a week. Limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking. Alcohol and nicotine use can increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. If you need help cutting back, ask your doctor about available resources. How to Recognize Colorectal Cancer Symptoms Many symptoms of colorectal cancer can be easy to miss, as they overlap with other common conditions. For example, hemorrhoids can also cause rectal bleeding. However, it’s important to be aware of key warning signs, including: Blood in or on your stool New changes in bowel habits, such as developing daily diarrhea or constipation Chronic abdominal symptoms, including cramps, pain, or bloating Unexplained weight loss Recurrent vomiting If discussing your bathroom habits with a doctor feels uncomfortable, you’re not alone. Studies show that younger adults are often reluctant to seek care for these symptoms, dismissing them as minor issues. However, if something doesn’t feel normal for you, it’s essential to schedule an appointment. Early detection is critical for improving colorectal cancer outcomes. It is also important to talk to your parents and siblings about conditions that could increase your cancer risk. Are You Due for a Colorectal Cancer Screening? At your next primary care visit, ask your provider if you’re due for screening and review your risks—especially if you’re 45 or older and haven’t been screened yet. To schedule a primary care appointment, visit Luminis.Health/PrimaryCare. Authors Andrew McGlone, MD, is the Executive Medical Director of Primary Care and Community Medicine at Luminis Health.
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