- Wellness, Heart CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogDo you have high cholesterol? You’re not alone — millions of adults in the United States face this common but serious issue. High cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and other chronic health conditions. In Prince George’s County, heart disease is the leading cause of death, underscoring the urgency of managing cholesterol levels. But how can you take control? At Luminis Health, we understand it’s not always easy. That’s why we’re here to explore the difference between “good,” “bad” and even “stealthy” cholesterol, review lifestyle changes that can help, and weigh the pros and cons of statin medications. Good vs. bad cholesterol Believe it or not, cholesterol isn’t all bad. Cholesterol helps build cells, create hormones and vitamin D, and aid in digestion. Problems can develop, however, when you have too much bad cholesterol or not enough good cholesterol in your bloodstream. In your body, cholesterol and triglycerides (fats from food, such as butter) combine with proteins to form lipoproteins, which travel to cells through your bloodstream. It’s likely you’ve heard of these, although perhaps by nickname: High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is often referred to as “good cholesterol” because its job is to move the bad cholesterol out of your arteries and into your liver, where it breaks down. Good cholesterol can be found in foods like nuts, fruits and vegetables, avocados, olive oil, oatmeal, beans and whole grains. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as “bad cholesterol,” causes fat to build up in your arteries, either restricting or blocking blood flow. Bad cholesterol is common in foods like red meats, processed meats and fried foods. Stealthy cholesterol is the common name for lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a). It’s often called “stealthy cholesterol” because high Lp(a) levels usually don’t cause symptoms and diet, exercise and cholesterol medication don’t affect it. It’s a genetic condition detected by a special blood test. You can have high cholesterol if you have too much LDL, too little HDL or a combination of both. Stealthy cholesterol is also quite common. According to the American Heart Association, one in five people worldwide has high levels of Lp(a). Whether you have high or stealthy cholesterol, you’re at an increased risk of experiencing heart pain (angina), a heart attack or a stroke. How to combat high cholesterol Certain lifestyle changes can help you keep your cholesterol in check, including: Eating a healthy diet that includes heart-healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy, and protein-rich foods such as fish and lean meats. Exercising regularly — aim for 150 minutes each week. Limiting your alcohol intake. Maintaining a healthy weight. Quitting smoking. If high cholesterol is an issue for you, your doctor may also prescribe medications to decrease your levels of bad cholesterol, increase your levels of good cholesterol and/or reduce your levels of triglycerides. One type of medication, called statins, can do all three. The pros and cons of statins Unfortunately, you can still have high cholesterol, even if you maintain a healthier lifestyle or have recently made some positive changes. Many of us now take a statin, which is a class of medication that helps lower cholesterol. Statins work by blocking a substance your body uses to produce cholesterol, helping to slow the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Statins are especially beneficial for people who have already had a heart attack or are at high risk due to conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. In addition to lowering cholesterol, statins may also have anti-inflammatory effects that further protect the heart and blood vessels. However, it’s important to be aware that statins can come with potential side effects, such as: Constipation Diarrhea Fatigue or sleep issues Headache Increased blood sugar Liver damage Muscle or stomach pain Nausea or vomiting Rash You’re more likely to experience side effects from statins if you’re female, take other cholesterol-lowering medications, drink excessive alcohol or have conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease or liver disease. Certain medications and even foods (such as grapefruit juice) can also interact with statins. Your doctor can help you weigh the risks and benefits to decide if statins are right for you. The support you need, close to home If you suspect you have high cholesterol or are experiencing concerning symptoms, it’s important to seek expert medical screening and treatment. The faster you get a diagnosis, the sooner we can take steps to help you lower your risk for serious health complications. Find a primary care provider at Luminis.Health/PrimaryCare or call 301-927-0088 to schedule an appointment at our Greenbelt location. The Luminis Health Community Health team also offers free community clinics with essential screenings, including A1C testing, cholesterol and blood pressure screenings. For details about upcoming clinics, visit Luminis.Health/CommunityClinics. Authors Sufia Syed, MD is an internal medicine physician at Luminis Health.
- WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWith summer fun and outdoor activity hitting its peak do not let ticks spoil the party. Tick bites can be the cause of many illnesses including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, alpha – gal, and more recently babesiosis. The good news? Most tick-related illnesses are preventable with some simple habits. How to Prevent Tick Bites Routine checks can often find ticks before they bite you. Ticks are very skilled at going unnoticed, so checking yourself routinely for unwanted guests is a great habit to get into this time of year. Look carefully — Ticks will frequent many great hiding places such as: Armpits Behind the ears Along your waistline In the belly button Between the toes Ticks can be very small and be mistaken for dirt, moles, or birthmarks. If you have kids, be sure to check them regularly/ teach them this important summer safety tip. What to Do if You Find a Tick If you find a tick attached to you the safest and most effective way to remove a tick is with fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible, then pull upwards with steady, even pressure until it detaches. Try to avoid squeezing the tick's body, which can force its saliva and potentially infectious material into your skin. (Link to possible source) Do not burn the tick or put chemicals on them. Remember pets can bring ticks inside with them so if you are a pet owner you be extra vigilant. When to Seek Medical Care Contact a provider if you experience any of the following symptoms: A new or expanding rash Fever or flu-like symptoms Headache Joint pain or myalgia (muscle aches or body soreness) No matter the question or symptom related to a tick bite, Luminis Health primary care providers can help you get the answers and care you need. With Luminis Health CareConnectNow you can connect with a medical provider on your mobile device from anywhere—even the comfort of your home. Appointments available (for ages 13 and up): Weekdays: 8:00am - 9:00pm EDT Weekends: 9:00am - 4:00pm EDT Please note: You must be physically located in Maryland at the time of service. Schedule a live virtual visit with CareConnectNow during operating hours or call us on your smartphone at 667-423-0609. Authors Andrew McGlone, M.D., is the executive medical director of Primary Care and Community Medicine at Luminis Health.
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAnnapolis, Md. (July 25) — Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC), the premier hospital serving Annapolis, the Eastern Shore and beyond, is grateful to announce a transformational philanthropic gift from Annapolis resident Sally Ehrle, PhD – one of the largest in the hospital’s nearly 125-year history. In recognition of this extraordinary generosity, the main North Pavilion lobby at LHAAMC has been named in honor of Sally and her late husband, Raymond Ehrle.Dr. Ehrle’s contribution is the lead gift of a major philanthropic investment in support of Luminis Health’s Vision 2030 strategic plan, with the goal of enhancing health, advancing wellness, and removing barriers to high quality care. The Ehrle’s gift will support planned renovations to expand patient care space, allowing LHAAMC to better serve the community and introduce additional patient-centered innovations. “We are deeply grateful to Dr. Ehrle and her late husband for their remarkable generosity and vision to spark change and inspire others,” said Dr. Sherry Perkins, president of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. “The Sally and Raymond Ehrle Lobby is in the heart of our hospital and welcomes 200,000 patients, family members, and visitors each year. It will stand as a welcoming reminder that none of us are alone in our health journey, we have dedicated neighbors who invest to ensure high quality care, close to home.” Dr. Ehrle joined her two sons, their children, Dr. Perkins, Luminis Health CEO Tori Bayless, hospital leaders, clinicians, and community members for a dedication ceremony honoring the Ehrle’s enduring legacy of care and compassion. “Raymond and I lived simply with a goal of someday using our resources to support the community.” said Dr. Ehrle. “I have an extensive volunteer history wherever I have lived, and this volunteerism has led to being a donor to several institutions in the Annapolis area. I have been an Annapolis resident for 23 years and feel a strong tie to this community.” Always humble and focused on others, Dr. Ehrle has asked that the amount of her gift remain confidential and hopes to instead focus on the impact that philanthropy can make on the health of the community. “By enabling us to grow with the needs of our community, Dr. Ehrle’s gift will enhance the health of generations to come,” said Elizabeth Gross, vice president of the Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center Foundation. “Our hospital has been built by the remarkable generosity of this community. Generations of philanthropists have stood with us to make LHAAMC the nationally-recognized institution that it is today. Dr. Ehrle’s gift is a powerful catalyst, and we hope it inspires others to join in, because every gift, no matter the amount, plays a vital role in the health of our community.” This transformational gift comes on the heels of LHAAMC’s Emergency Department receiving the Maryland Stars of Life Executive Director’s Award from the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS). The hospital is also consistently recognized among the Best Hospitals by Newsweek and rated high performing by U.S. News & World Report. LHAAMC is the only hospital in Maryland to earn 13 consecutive ‘A’ grades from Leapfrog for patient safety and is one of just 6% of hospitals nationwide to receive a third Magnet designation for nursing excellence.
- Wellness, Plastic Surgery & Skin CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWe’ve all heard about the importance of sunscreen, but sometimes it can be tempting to skip it, especially if you have a skin tone that doesn’t burn. However, even though melanin (the pigment in your skin) offers some natural protection from UV rays, it doesn’t provide full coverage or give immunity to skin cancer. In fact, skin cancer is often diagnosed at more advanced stages in people of color, which can lead to worse outcomes. Tips for keeping your skin safe in the sun You can lower your risk of skin cancer by making sun protection a daily habit. Finding the right sunscreen for you is a good place to start. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect you from UVA and UVB radiation from the sun. To avoid “white cast,” look for formulas labeled sheer, clear or “for all skin tones.” Once you have a good sunscreen, follow these simple steps: Apply sunscreen every day, even when it’s cloudy or you don’t plan to go outside. Don’t be shy, use plenty. Apply at least two finger-lengths of sunscreen to your face for full protection. Reapply sunscreen every couple of hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Seek shade, especially during peak hours of sun in the middle of the day. Wear hats, sunglasses and long sleeves to protect your skin. Stay on the lookout for sun damage It’s crucial to keep an eye out for signs of skin cancer and other sun damage. Here’s what to look for: Changes in moles Dark patches Discoloration under the eyes or around the mouth Skin that feels dry or rough It’s also important to consider the location of sun damage. For example, melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, often appears on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet of people of color. Checking your skin frequently can help you catch skin cancer early when it is most treatable. Getting regular skin checks from a dermatologist or primary care doctor can also help you catch skin damage before it becomes dangerous. If they find any suspicious spots, your provider may order a biopsy and imaging tests to determine next steps. If cancer is found, several treatments are available. In many cases, skin cancer can be removed surgically by a dermatologist. This is an outpatient procedure and patients are able to go home after surgery. For more advanced cases, treatment may involve a longer surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy or a combination of these options. The cancer care team at Luminis Health can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Skin cancer concerns are nothing to ignore. If you have questions about how to protect your skin or are worried about a new spot or mole, speak with your primary care provider today. Visit Luminis.Health/PrimaryCare to make an appointment. Authors Dr. Naeem Newman is a surgical oncologist and general surgeon. He is dedicated to a multi-disciplinary approach to cancer care, in collaboration with colleagues from medical and radiation oncology, radiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology and pathology.
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAnnapolis, Md.-- Following an extensive national search, Luminis Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Catherine Maloney, PT, MSPT, MSHA, FACHE, as the organization’s new System Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President. She will also serve as president of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC), the premier hospital serving Annapolis, Maryland's Eastern Shore, and surrounding communities. Maloney will begin her new role in late September.Maloney joins Luminis Health from Emory Healthcare in Atlanta, where she most recently served as Chief Operating Officer for Emory University Hospital and Emory University Orthopaedics and Spine Hospital. During her nearly two-decade tenure there, she led key initiatives to improve quality, patient experience, and operational and financial performance. Maloney championed improvements to patient experience and flow in the emergency department, oversaw strategic expansion construction projects, and led initiatives to reduce first-year turnover and the use of contract labor.“Catherine is an excellent fit for Luminis Health,” said Tori Bayless, CEO of Luminis Health. “She brings an impressive track record of operational expertise, clinical excellence and dedication to mission-driven leadership that aligns with our RISE values of Respect, Inclusion, Service and Excellence. "As System Chief Operating Officer, Maloney will oversee operations across Luminis Health and lead system-wide functions including Quality and Patient Safety, Information Technology, Human Resources, and the LHAAMC Foundation.“Luminis Health is a special place," Maloney said. "My goal is to build on the proud tradition by strengthening our efforts to improve health outcomes and expand access to quality care for all of the communities we serve. As President of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center, I’m honored to lead an extraordinary hospital that’s been serving the Annapolis community for nearly 125 years. I’m excited to work alongside such a dedicated team of professionals committed to advancing population health."Maloney will succeed Sherry B. Perkins, PhD, RN, FAAN, who is retiring after a long and storied career, including 16 years at Luminis Health, the last six as president of LHAAMC.
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