- WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogHere’s an age-old truth: Maryland’s population is aging slightly faster than the rest of the country, meaning more families here are navigating the complexities of caring for older loved ones. At Luminis Health, we are committed to Age-Friendly Care—an approach that centers on what matters most to older adults and their families. We follow the nationally recognized 4M’s framework: What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility. Aquí va una verdad de toda la sangre: La población de Maryland envejece ligeramente más rápido que en el resto del país, lo que significa que más familias aquí están enfrentándose a las complejidades del cuidado de seres queridos mayores. En Luminis Health, estamos comprometidos con la Atención Amigable con la Edad, un enfoque que se centra en lo que más importa para los adultos mayores y sus familias. Seguimos el marco nacionalmente reconocido las 4M: Lo que importa: medicación, mentalidad y movilidad. ¿Qué es la bacteriuria asintomática? Un tema importante que puede ser difícil de tratar y que causa confusión es la bacteriuria asintomática. Esto ocurre cuando se encuentran bacterias en la orina, pero no hay síntomas de infección. Esta condición es muy común en adultos mayores, especialmente en mujeres después de la menopausia, cuando niveles bajos de estrógeno reducen las bacterias protectoras. Desafortunadamente, la bacteriuria asintomática suele confundirse con una infección urinaria (ITU), lo que lleva a recetar antibióticos innecesariamente. Esto es lo que usted debería saber sobre la bacteriuria asintomática: No es una infección urinaria. La bacteriuria asintomática es diferente de una infección. Un cultivo de orina positivo o un recuento alto de glóbulos blancos no siempre significa que se necesiten antibióticos. No causa confusión, caídas ni debilidad. Si su ser querido experimenta estos síntomas, podría tratarse de deshidratación, desequilibrio electrolítico o medicación. Los antibióticos suelen ser innecesarios y pueden ser perjudiciales. El uso excesivo de antibióticos no aporta ningún beneficio para tratar esta condición y puede aumentar los riesgos de diarrea, colitis, reacciones alérgicas, interacciones farmacológicas e infecciones resistentes a fármacos y peores. Hay alternativas más seguras. Una buena higiene diaria con limpieza perineal, cremas vaginales y probióticos puede ayudar a restaurar las bacterias protectoras y el pH sin los riesgos de los antibióticos. Entonces, ¿cuándo tienen sentido los antibióticos? Solo cuando su profesional médico evalúe cuidadosamente los síntomas, revise el historial médico y determine que existen signos reales de infección. Aquí es donde las 4M guían nuestra atención centrada en el paciente. Las 4M a la atención centrada en el paciente Lo que importa Escuchar a los pacientes y a sus familias sobre sus objetivos, comodidad y preferencias. Medicamentos Evitar antibióticos innecesarios que pueden hacer más daño que bien. Actividad mental Reconocer que la confusión en los adultos mayores tiene muchas causas, no solo bacterias en la orina. Movilidad Ayudar a los adultos mayores a mantenerse activos y seguros, en lugar de quedar marginados por los efectos secundarios de tratamientos inadecuados. Siguiendo este enfoque basado en la evidencia, garantizamos que las personas mayores reciban la atención adecuada en el momento adecuado, protegiendo su salud, independencia y calidad de vida. Cuidados respetuosos con la edad Luminis Health está comprometida a defender la atención amiga de la edad para nuestra comunidad. Nos enorgullece que el Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center en Annapolis sea uno de los cinco hospitales a nivel nacional reconocidos como Pioneros en el Sistema de Salud Amigable con la Edad por el Institute for Healthcare Improvement. El Centro Médico Comunitario Luminis Health Doctors en Lanham, junto con nuestras consultas de atención primaria, han obtenido la distinción de Sistema Saludable Amigable con la Edad Nivel 2 – Compromiso con la Excelencia en la Atención. A medida que Maryland sigue envejeciendo más rápido que el promedio nacional, estas conversaciones importan más que nunca—para nuestros padres, abuelos y todos los que los queremos. Consulte y comparta nuestro folleto sobre antibióticos para mujeres mayores, que también está disponible en español. Authors Mary Clance, MD MPH es epidemióloga hospitalaria en Luminis Health.0
- Cancer Care, Men's Health, Women's HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogPhysicians across the U.S. will diagnose almost 100,000 new cases of colorectal cancer this year, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Of those cases, the ACS estimates that 40,000 people will die. The good news is that colorectal cancer, also referred to as colon (large bowel) cancer, is preventable and curable if diagnosed early. The best way to achieve this is by getting a screening colonoscopy. Let’s start with the basics – what is a colonoscopy? Most colorectal cancers start from ‘silent’ growths within the colon called polyps. We use a screening colonoscopy to detect and remove polyps. The procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete. Once we sedate the patient, we insert a colonoscope that goes to the end of the colon. We remove any polyps seen during the procedure. Next, we collect the polyps for analysis. Removal of these polyps prevents the development of colorectal cancer. There are alternative screenings. There are many stool-based tests used for screening. Among these is the Cologuard test. For this test, the patient collects their stool at home and then ships it to a lab. Cologuard is very good for screening and is less invasive. Other tests check for blood in the stool. These tests occur in a doctor’s office or at home. Talk to your provider. You should get your first screening at age 50, but we recommend talking to your provider about screening beginning at the age of 45. An earlier screening is recommended at age 40 for people with a family history of colon cancer, and some research suggests African-Americans should get a colonoscopy at age 45. Diet can play a role in colon health. A diet low in fat and high in fiber can improve colon health. This type of diet may reduce your colorectal cancer risk. Signs and symptoms. Patients with early colorectal cancer usually don’t have symptoms. In later stages of undiagnosed colorectal cancer, symptoms may include: Rectal bleeding Anemia Abdominal pain Loose stools Constipation Weight loss Screening for early detection of colorectal cancer is crucial. Even for advanced colorectal cancers, a 95% cure rate is possible with the latest surgical and cancer therapies. Colorectal cancer is preventable. Don’t wait if you are over 50. Call your primary care provider to set up a colonoscopy screening. Doctors’ offices are safe, ready and open to care for you. Author Showkat Bashir, MD, specializes in gastroenterology at Doctors Community Hospital.0
- Women's HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogLena Dunham. Whoopi Goldberg. Susan Sarandon. These are just a few of the high-profile women who have publicly discussed their experience living with endometriosis. Endometriosis is a gynecologic condition that occurs when tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grows elsewhere in the abdomen. Endometriosis is very common, affecting as many as 10 percent of American women of childbearing age, or more than 6.5 million women in the United States. While the cause of endometriosis is not clear and there is not a defined gene, there may be a familial link. According to a 2008 study out of Yale University School of Medicine, women with an affected mother or sister have as high as a 10-fold increased risk of developing endometriosis. Although some women don’t experience symptoms with endometriosis, many report intensely painful menstrual cramps and pain during sex. Over time, untreated endometriosis can lead to chronic inflammation and scarring in the abdominal cavity, resulting in debilitating pain beyond the menstrual cycle. Severe endometriosis can involve other organs such as the bowel and bladder, causing non-gynecologic symptoms such as pain with bowel movements and urination. Endometriosis is traditionally diagnosed by confirmation of implants seen in surgery. However, it can often be diagnosed on symptoms and physical exam alone. Endometriosis before and during pregnancy One of the biggest concerns women with endometriosis have is whether they can get pregnant. There is a strong link between endometriosis and infertility. As many as 40 percent of women struggling with infertility are diagnosed with endometriosis. If you know you have endometriosis, it is important to meet with an infertility specialist prior to getting pregnant because you may require treatment of endometriosis before any fertility treatments. Treatment must be a multi-pronged approach It is important to understand that there is no “silver bullet” cure for endometriosis. For women who receive a diagnosis of endometriosis later in life, they often develop a hypersensitivity to pain, which is not easily treated with medication or surgery alone. Successful treatment of endometriosis requires a team of specialists in both surgical and nonsurgical fields. Drug treatments: Medicine for endometriosis should tackle one of two issues: ovulation and inflammation. Supplemental hormones, most commonly in the form of birth control pills, suppress ovulation, which suppresses the endometriosis flare during menstrual cycles. There are also safe hormonal alternatives, such as Depo-Provera injections or the hormonal IUD. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen suppresses inflammation and provides pain relief. For patients with more severe pain, certain medications can damper the pain signals in the brain. It is important to note that opioids often do not help endometriosis pain and should be avoided. Surgical treatments: I often do not recommend surgery as the first-line treatment for endometriosis. However, if the pain is severe and medication is not working, surgery may be the next option. There are many surgical options with endometriosis, like removing ovarian cysts (cystectomy), removing endometriosis implants, removing one or both ovaries (oophorectomy), and removing the uterus (hysterectomy). What kind of surgery you need will depend on your age, health status, whether you intend to get pregnant in the future and many other factors. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy (PFPT). Many patients with chronic pelvic pain due to endometriosis are excellent candidates for pelvic floor physical therapy. With chronic pain, the muscles in the vagina often tense up, resulting in significant pain during sex or with movement. Pelvic floor physical therapy is a safe and effective co-treatment for pelvic pain and should be offered to women who exhibit signs of vaginal muscle tightening or tenderness on exam. Be your own advocate Although there is no specific way of preventing endometriosis, there are ways you can impact the condition and manage your symptoms. The first thing I always tell women is not to ignore the pain. Pain that starts only during menstrual cycles can eventually become worsened or become constant due to amplification of your brain’s interpretation of pain. This can be very difficult to treat. Second, don’t be afraid or embarrassed to seek help from an expert. If surgery is recommended for you, always get a second opinion before proceeding. Be an advocate for yourself, your body and your life. Finally, get support and talk with other women who also live with endometriosis. The more women who speak up about endometriosis, the more attention this condition will get and the more we can advocate for better resources for women and healthcare providers. Author Jessica Ton, MD, is a specialist in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery with Anne Arundel Medical Group (AAMG) Gynecologic Specialty Surgeons. To schedule an appointment with her, call 443-481-3493.0
- Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogA Respectful Way to Find Out Vaccination Status As the holidays approach and the weather turns cold, activities seem to shift from wide open outdoor spaces to close quarters in our homes. And while gathering around tables with your loved ones and arranging playdates for your kiddos is essential for your family’s mental health, these activities also pose a greater risk of spreading viruses. So, how do you protect your friends and family from COVID-19 during the holiday season? It’s important that your guests understand your view on vaccination. One way is with an honest and respectful conversation about vaccination status. COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective at slowing the spread of coronavirus and greatly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death. Now, with booster shots approved for all adults age 18 and older, and COVID-19 vaccines making their way to pediatrician offices for kids ages 5-12, more people than ever are eligible for the shots. However, asking someone if they’re vaccinated isn’t always easy, especially at a time when heightened emotions and political debates seem to play into the conversation. Here are a few tips on getting a healthy and productive discussion started. Know Your Rights Some individuals have pointed to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) as a reason they don’t have to share vaccination status. That’s actually not true. HIPPA does protect an individual’s health information from being shared by health institutions or providers without their consent. But it doesn’t make it wrong – or illegal – to ask someone if they’ve been vaccinated. Just keep in mind though, that just because you ask, doesn’t mean they have to answer you. Approach The Topic With Respect Because vaccines are such a hot topic, it’s important to frame the question carefully. Letting your loved ones know upfront you understand (and respect) their point of view, even if it’s different than your own, will help put everyone at ease from the start. As you dive into the discussion, we suggest using “I” statements instead of “you” statements. For example: Try: “Our family includes immunocompromised individuals, so we do our best to protect them. One way we do that is by asking about vaccination status of the people we’ll be around. This helps us make choices that are best for our family. Have you and your family been vaccinated?” -OR- “We want to keep our kids in school as much as possible this year. One way we’re doing that is by reducing our exposure to COVID-19, however we can. I have to ask, has your family been vaccinated?” Remember, respect is key in this scenario, so even if the conversation ends differently than you’d hoped, it’s crucial you convey that you understand each family has to make the decision that’s right for them. Know What To Do If Others Aren’t Vaccinated What you do next largely depends on your comfort level and if anyone in your family is at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19. But here are a few options to consider: Ask everyone to wear a mask. If the activity will take place indoors or you’re hosting a party at your own home, ask that everyone wear a mask. Ask people if they feel sick to stay home. Anyone with cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms should stay away from others to help reduce the risk of making others sick Move activities outside. You may need to bundle up against the cold air, but outdoor events pose lower risk of spreading COVID-19 and other illness, like the seasonal flu. Opt out of the activity. Remember, if you don’t feel safe or comfortable spending time indoors with people who haven’t been vaccinated, you can politely and respectfully decline the invitation. Want to add another layer of protection to your gathering? Ask people who haven’t been vaccinated to show a negative COVID-19 test. Keep in mind, these tests aren’t always accurate at identifying active infections in asymptotic individuals, but it can help give you and your guests some peace of mind. Find Ways to Stay Included and Involved It’s been tough on everyone over the past two years. What we’ve learned is that there are many ways to stay in touch during milestone celebrations without increasing your family’s COVID-19 risk. If you do choose not to attend parties or get-togethers, here are a few ways you can still spread that holiday cheer: Ask the host to dial you in virtually for a portion of the event Bake a goody bag of cookies and candy to mail or drop off at someone’s house Send a sweet card letting loved ones know you are thinking of them Start a “You’ve Been Elfed” tradition where you leave a bucket of sweet treats and little presents on neighbor’s porches We’re Here For You We understand that vaccinations bring a wide range of responses and beliefs. However, we do hope that as time goes by, we’ll all see the great benefit of choosing to become vaccinated. After all, it’s how we can keep ourselves healthy and well, and our loved ones safe. If you have any questions, we have answers. And should you decide you’re ready to schedule your vaccination, visit one of our community vaccine clinics. Authors Sheri Poretz is an Infection Control Nurse at Luminis Health0
- PediatricsGeneral Page Tier 3BlogSix years ago I became a first-time mom to a precious baby boy. I had waited 40 long weeks to meet this new little person. After he was born, I was in complete awe of what my body had accomplished and was excited to discover everything motherhood would bring. I was ready for dirty diapers, sleepless nights and showerless days. What I wasn’t prepared for was the challenge of breastfeeding. I didn’t know how time-consuming nursing would be. I remember thinking, “This isn’t what the books say!” Suddenly I felt like I was treading water. It was lonely and isolating. I had no one to talk to and felt like I was stuck at home all day and night, because surely the second I tried to leave the house it would be time for my baby to eat again. I was dedicated to make breastfeeding work for me and decided to attend the breastfeeding support group at AAMC. In walked the vibrant Kim Knight, board-certified lactation consultant, to a room full of breastfeeding moms who were all experiencing their own unique challenges. Suddenly I had hope! I left each group meeting with more confidence and joy. I learned to stress less, live life more and that the ‘books’ aren’t always right when it comes to breastfeeding. My baby’s nursing pattern was normal. In fact, his frequent nursing was encouraging my body to establish a good milk supply. I learned about the unique supply and demand milk production process. My body would learn to supply exactly what my baby was demanding. It’s amazing when you stop to think about it! This was my first lesson in trusting my body and my baby, and trusting myself as a mother. We knew what we were doing after all! I quickly learned that so many moms need to hear the message that nursing can be challenging, but you can do it if you want. You just need a little education and the right support and resources. Often, moms think their milk supply is low when it really isn’t. At that very first support group there was a sweet mom who just could not trust that her body was enough. She thought she had to pump every feed to make sure she had enough milk for her baby. She became exhausted, stressing over every ounce she did or did not pump. You don’t need to stress about the numbers and ounces. Your baby is your proof. As long as your baby is gaining weight on breast milk, then your supply is good. I’ve also learned along the way that the amount of milk you pump is not an accurate measure of how much your baby is getting when they feed directly from your breast. Your baby is much more efficient than your pump! I had no clue how many ounces of milk my baby was getting, but I saw him growing and thriving. I started to appreciate his sweet little rolls that I worked so hard to give him! That was my evidence. One of our first jobs as a mom is to be able to feed our baby. If you choose to breastfeed and it’s not going well, it can be devastating. I can’t stress enough the value of a support network, whether it’s an in-person group, a Facebook group or a couple of friends who understand. Also, determining your personal breastfeeding goals is such an important part of the journey. Everyone’s journey is different. Some women give pacifiers, some women exclusively pump, some women schedule feedings and some women nurse on demand. There are so many ways to breastfeed and they’re all OK! At the end of the day you have to know you are doing an amazing thing for your child, and you are always enough. Join an Online Support Group The Milk Makers Community Facebook group is a breastfeeding support group started by Carly Glover in 2010. The group started with six moms from AAMC’s breastfeeding support group, and has grown to almost 2,000 local moms. The group welcomes and supports ALL local moms regardless of their personal choices when it comes to feeding their baby. To join, send Carly and the administrators a message. The AAMC Smart Parents Facebook group is a place for Moms and Dads to ask questions about their journey through parenthood and get answers from local parents and AAMC experts. Author Carly Glover is the founder of Milk Makers Community, doula with Annapolis Area Doulas and mother of four. Through her business, Carly is committed to supporting moms in their journey through pregnancy, birthing and post-partum, and helping instill confidence in their breastfeeding relationship. Breastfeeding Resources Breastfeeding Basics Class: Learn how to prepare for breastfeeding, how to hold your baby, how often and how long to feed, how to avoid common problems and much more. Breastfeeding Warm Line: Anne Arundel Medical Center’s lactation staff is available to answer any questions you might have about breastfeeding. You can reach our consultants seven days a week via our Warm Line at 443-481-6977. Simply leave a message and they’ll return your call between 9 am and 4 pm the same day. You can also e-mail our lactation staff anytime at [email protected]. Breastfeeding Support Group: Breastfeeding mothers are welcome to this gathering on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. The group is led by Kim Knight, a board-certified lactation consultant. The group is very informal and welcoming to breastfeeding mothers regardless of experience or degree of commitment. Bring your baby! Find a Lactation Consultant: A board-certified lactation consultant can help address your breastfeeding concerns or challenges. You can find one in your area through the United States Lactation Consultant Association directory. Back to Work and Breastfeeding Support Group: Discuss questions and concerns common to nursing moms who returned to work. Share your experiences and hear new ideas on how to continue to work and breastfeed successfully. This group meets the first Friday of every month at the Big Vanilla in Pasadena. AAMC Smart Parents: Join our Facebook community focused on the journey of parenthood. This is a safe, non-judgmental group to ask questions and get answers from local moms and dads, and AAMC experts. Originally published April 13, 2016. Last updated Aug. 26, 2019.0
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