Summer is here, along with the famous Arizona monsoon storms.  We hope this newsletter finds you in good health and enjoying life wherever you are.
 
Please continue to check out our website at www.doctordoug.com for new information.
 
Again, we hope you enjoy our newsletter.  Stay cool!

 

 

The Doctor's Corner....

 

One of the next "revolutions" in medicine is simple transformation:  the expanded use of computers in generating and sharing medical records.
 
As most of you know, and as demonstrated by this newsletter, my medical practice has been among the first to use computers widely in the office setting.  Currently, the primary focus of my practice is "patient centered," with the use of e-mail via AOL, printed instructions during each visit on Microsoft Word, and the use of Google searches during the office visit for teaching and information-sharing.  The next step will be a standardized patient medical record.
 
The electronic medical record (EMR) is slowly developing in the medical community.   Touted as a "cost saving measure" that some estimate has the potential to shave 10% off the current health-care budget, shared computer information on patients has enormous benefits in allowing access to your health information in a timely manner.  Ideally, this will improve our ability to treat and diagnose patients, reduce unnecessary testing, and prevent medical errors.  Of course, the potential for abuses of privacy is among the greatest concerns, and the adoption of a standardized and functional EMR is the most practical limitation at this time.
 
Within a decade, the EMR will be a standard part of your medical care, but it is not ready currently, for widespread use.  In the meantime, we'll continue with our "patient centered" approach to computerization in this office. 
 
Yours in good health,
 
Dr. Lakin 
 
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Morning Hypertension................ 

 

Several recent studies indicate that monitoring your morning blood pressure can be critically important to your health.  That's because of a condition known as morning hypertension, a sudden surge in blood pressure in the first two hours of waking, which can put you at an increased risk of a stroke.
 
Even if you are managing your blood pressure and taking medication, you can still have morning hypertension.  Fifty percent of patients with high blood pressure have morning hypertension, and half of all strokes occur in the morning.
 
For more information about morning hypertension, visit www.morningbp.com
 
                                       - Susan Hudson, Pharmacy buyer
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 When to See a Doctor....
 
 
Everyone has had a disturbing medical symptom and wondered, "Should I give it a week and call the doctor, or tough it out and blow it off?"
 
There's no stupid question or silly concern, experts say.  People are medically savvy enough to know that severe pain is not normal and should be evaluated.  But other conditions aren't always as clear.
 
For some reason we tend to get embarrassed, we get busy, or we think the symptoms will get better or go away.  In addition, people may feel silly if nothing is found.
 
Pay attention to what kinds of words you would use to describe symptoms.  If you would say, "It's the worst I've ever had" or "severe," do not ignore the symptoms.
 
It's the physician's job to find things.  If you are worried just a little bit, it's worth coming in.  If the physician catches an unusual finding early, there is usually a better treatment and a better outcome.
 
Here are conditions that merit a visit to a doctor:
 
Unintentional weight loss or gain of 10 pounds or more in a month.  This could be a sign of diabetes, thyroid disease, or other metabolic disorders. 

A lump.  Don't ignore a lump in your breast if you are a woman or a lump in your testicles if you are a man.  They can indicate cancer.  In either sex, a lump in the neck, armpit, and groin should be checked out as soon as possible.  

 
Numbness, tingling and slurred speech.  These can be signs of a stroke or tumor. 

Calf pain.  This could mean you have a deep-vein thrombosis, a blood clot.  The situation is serious.  Clots can travel to the lung and can be potentially fatal. 

Malaise, feeling tired or "not right."  This can be symptomatic of depression, chronic illness, thyroid disease, anemia or infection. 

Vaginal bleeding after menopause.  This is not normal, and is the number one symptom of uterine cancer. 

A sudden, severe headache or an increase in the number and severity of headaches.  This can indicate stroke, aneurysm, meningitis or hypertension. 

An unexplained, persistent fever.  This can indicate infection or malignancy.  If you have influenza, expect to have a fever for four to five days.  However, unexplained fevers lasting longer than two to three days are not normal and mean you should see a doctor. 

Shortness of breath at rest.  It could mean you are suffering from heart failure, asthma, pneumonia, anxiety or a blood clot in the lung.

Change in bowel habits or black stools.  The main concern is colon cancer or an inflammatory colon condition such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.  Black stools can mean you are bleeding somewhere in your digestive tract.  It's especially important for people older than 50 to have any change in bowel habits checked out.
 
If you feel full after eating very little or have nausea and vomiting for a week.  It could be a symptom of ulcers, stomach cancer or some other kind of cancer such as ovarian cancer. 

Hot, red, swollen joints.  These symptoms could indicate the onset of arthritis or an infection. 

Dizziness or vertigo.  These are often benign and go away on their own, but it could be the beginning of a stroke and needs to be evaluated. 

Flashes of light.  This is significant and should be evaluated immediately.  Any sudden vision change should be taken seriously. 

Skin sores that won't go away.  These can be serious.  Ulcers, particularly on the legs and feet, can be the first clue of diabetes.  A skin lesion anywhere on the body that doesn't go away, becomes larger or changes color and shape can suggest skin cancer.  Don't ignore it.  If caught early, the chances of a full recovery are great.
 
                            - By Dorene Weinstein, Sioux Falls, S.D.
 

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The human body:
 
Freshman Level-
 
1.      Term for the colored part of the eyes.
2.      What are the bones making up the spine called?
3.      What is the medical term for the thigh bone?
 
Graduate Level-
 
4.      What is the only movable bone in the skull?
5.      The lachrymal glands are noted for producing what?
6.      Term for the delivery of an infant whose feet or buttocks     
         appear first.

 

PH.D. Level-
 
7.      On what type of person would you expect to find a fontanel?
8.      In what gland are the islets of Langerhans?
9.      What part of the body is measured by the cephalic index?
 
Scoring:  1 point for each correct answer on the freshman level, 2 points on the Graduate level and 3 points on the Ph.D. level.
 
Answers:
1. Iris.  2.  Vertebrae, 3.  Femur.  4.  Lower jaw (mandible).

5.  Tears.  6.  Breech birth.  7.  Baby (Infant).  8.  Pancreas.

9.  Head (skull).
 
18 points: Congratulations, doctor!
15-17 points: Honors graduate
10-14 points: You're plenty smart, but no grind.
4-9 points: You really should hit the books harder.
1-3 points: Enroll in remedial courses immediately!
0 points: Who read the questions to you?  
                                                                                                
                                             -The Arizona Republic
 

 

The 2008 Beijing Olympic Games are just around the corner, featuring some of the world's top athletes.  Although you may not want to commit the requisite four or more years to get in peak Olympic form, you can use the Games as a springboard to amp up your own workouts.
 
If you currently work out once or twice a week, you could push yourself up to three to four times a week, or perhaps work out for 15 - 30 minutes longer.  You can apply this to whatever fitness activity you rely.  Whether you are swimming, cycling, or running, you can create an additional challenge for your body by adding time.  And don't forget about diet if you want to achieve your best form.
 
So, enjoy the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, and know you are doing your part to be healthy and fit.
 
                                                  - Jorge Cruise, FitSmart  

 

 

 

Bladder weakness, also known as urinary incontinence, describes the condition when one's bladder leaks involuntarily.  The problem can vary, and people with bladder weakness can lose relatively small to large quantities of urine at any one time.  The condition affects both men and women, and it's more common than you might think, affecting 10% of men and 25% of women, and not just the elderly.
 
Weakened pelvic-floor muscles, menopause, stress, or a strong and sudden urge to pass urine can cause urinary incontinence.  Urinary track and bladder infections, constipation and medication side effects can all cause short-term bladder weakness.  Childbirth, car accidents or surgical procedures can sometimes result in long-term bladder weakness.  Birth defects, progressive illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease, and other chronic conditions may require on-going management of bladder weakness.  Prostate problems and the treatments required to correct them are the most frequent causes of bladder weakness in men.  The good news is that bladder weakness is often easily treated and managed through exercise and/or medication.  
 
You can help your doctor make an accurate assessment by completing a urine-voiding diary for seven days before your appointment.  Make a list of any prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking.  Also, it is very important to let the doctor know of any family history, accidents and injuries that might be contributing to the problem.
 
                      -By T. Foster Jones, The Costco Connection 

 

 

At last, celery gets some respect.  The University of Illinois researchers say that a compound called luteolin in the crunchy stalk may help dramatically reduce brain inflammation implicated in Alzheimer's disease - they have shown it works in mice.
 
Caveat:  The chief researcher notes that the mice ate the human equivalent of about 47 servings of celery daily!
 
That's not too practical, but the same antioxidant lutetolin is also found in green peppers and parsley.
 
Bon Appe'tit!
 
                                                  - Jean Carper, EatSmart 

 

 

 

 

Recent diabetic studies aside; exercise is still key to treating the disease.
 
It's been said by doctors that they may not always be right, but they are never uncertain.  Nothing illustrates this better than a couple of recent articles in the New England Journal of Medicine.  Both articles deal with diabetes, a topic of great concern to millions of Americans.  Both present results from large studies designed to investigate whether aggressively lowering blood sugar improves health.
 
On one hand, sugar treatment was associated with a 21% reduced risk of developing kidney disease, but on the other hand, aggressive blood sugar control not only didn't lower the risk of heart complications from diabetes, it also may have raised the risk of death. 
 
So, what is the average person supposed to do?  In situations like this, the most prudent course of action is to take care of you.  Let science hash out the meaning of studies like these, but don't wait to improve you own health.
 
One of nature's most effective tools to help your body deal with diabetes is available to all, but used by few.  It offers medicinal value greater than many drugs, improves other risks that often accompany diabetes, high blood pressure, high triglycerides, excess body fat and betters the quality of life. 
The tool?     Exercise.
 
The benefits of exercise on the human body are undeniable.  Every sound treatment program for diabetes includes exercise.  And while a commitment is necessary, the key to success is not the intensity of your activity, but the consistency of your routine.  In fact, you are better off following a routine of moderate activity on a regular basis than you are "knocking yourself out" infrequently or sporadically.
 Check out The American Diabetes Association's website at www.diabetes.org, which has more information on the role exercise plays in helping to control diabetes, as well as tips for getting started.
 
                                   - Tedd Mitchell, MD, HealthSmart

 

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Keep Your Voice Strong.........

 

 

The voice is a primary tool of the trade for about 10 million workers, but voice problems can cause difficulties for anyone, not just teachers, counselors and phone workers.  Most voice problems are preventable according to Duke University, Voice Care Center.
 
Try the Expert's tips:
 
Get lots of moisture. 
Drink six to eight glasses of liquid a day, water is best.  Avoid caffeine and alcohol: they are irritants and diuretics, not good for vocal cord health.  Take steamy showers. If the environment is dry, use a humidifier.
 
Have a cold?  Rest your voice.
Decongestants dry you out, so avoid them.  Instead, use a humidifier or nasal rinse.
 
Don't grunt with heavy exercise.
It's not a good idea to talk over loud noise, scream, heavily clear your throat or excessively whisper.
 
Don't smoke.
Also, avoid second hand smoke.  It can harm your voice.

 

 

Medical specialists say to "listen to your voice, it may be telling you something" and see them if you experience these problems for more then two weeks:
 
·        Your voice changes or cracks.
·        It's an effort or strain to talk
·        When you speak, you have a sore throat or neck
 
                                      - Susan T. Lennon, USA Weekend

 

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Arizona heat is not just uncomfortable; it is dangerous and deadly for many people in our community, especially the people who work outdoors, young children, the elderly, and the homeless.  This is an important time to check on your neighbors, especially if they are elderly or live alone.
 
Here are some tips to avoid heat-related illness:
 

   Never leave infants, children, or pets in a parked  vehicle.

   Increase fluid intake, regardless of activity level.

   Avoid beverages containing alcohol, caffeine, or large 

   amounts of sugar as they dehydrate the body.

   Avoid very cold beverages as they cause stomach

   cramps.

   Limit outdoor activity between 11am and 3pm, when the

   sun is at peak intensity.

    Carry a bottle water in the car for yourself, your

    passengers, and anyone you see who might be suffering

    from the heat.

 

If you see someone you believe is in heat distress, call 911 for assistance.   You could save a life!

 

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Vitamin D is the hottest nutrient in medical circles now.  It has been credited with fighting everything from cancer to chronic pain.
The recommended daily dose of Vitamin D is 1,000 IU for children and
1,000 - 2,000 IU for Adults.
 
The body makes Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, but deficiencies are common, even in sunny Arizona.
 
 
The Latest News:
 
Cuts Heart Attacks.  Men with low levels of Vitamin D are about two times more apt to suffer a heart attack than men with sufficient D, Harvard researchers say.  Their theory: Vitamin D lessens inflammation, high blood pressure and vascular disease.
 
Curbs Cancer.   A research team at the University of California-San Diego says that 2,000 IU of Vitamin D daily could reduce breast cancer rates by half and slash the risk of colon cancer by two-thirds.
 
Prevents Diabetes.  Men with blood richest in Vitamin D were 72% less apt to develop type II diabetes after age 40 than men with the least Vitamin D, according to a new Finnish study.

Boost Brain.  Older people with depression or dementia may benefit from Vitamin D.  Men and women over 65 with major or minor depression had 14% lower Vitamin D levels than their non-depressed peers.  And among Alzheimer's patients, those with higher Vitamin D levels scored better on tests of cognitive function.
                                   
                                                                                                                                       - Jean Carper, EatSmart

 

 

According to recent statistics, sudden cardiac arrest is rapidly becoming the leading cause of death in America. Once the heart ceases to function, a healthy human brain may survive without oxygen for up to 4 minutes without suffering any permanent damage. Unfortunately, a typical EMS response may take 6, 8 or even 10 minutes.

 
It is during those critical minutes that CPR can provide oxygenated blood to the victim's brain and the heart, dramatically increasing his chance of survival. And if properly instructed, almost anyone can learn and perform CPR.

Recently, our office staff had the opportunity to re-certify and refresh our CPR skills.  Heart Savers, Inc. did not only an excellent job, but made it fun for all.
We encourage you to learn CPR; you may save a life!

For more information log on to: www.heartsaversinc.com
 
 

 

 

While other offices may be decreasing opportunities, we are excited to announce that we are increasing services to help you with your medical healthcare needs. 

 

There are some very interesting happenings developing in our office for all of our patients. 
Please check out our new patient information bulletin board in the lobby for events and dates. 
 
**Your Complete Physical on a CD
 
We are starting to burn CDs for all our patients' physicals on request.  This CD will have your current physical report, lab work, EKG, and any other reports linked to your exam.  This will be a CD that you will own, and can keep to be updated with future physicals, if you wish.  How convenient is that!
 
How can you get one?
When checking out after your next physical, tell Cindy you would like a CD, and we will be happy to make one for you. It's that easy! 

 **Weight Support Group
 
Marilyn, Dr. Lakin's medical assistant, has started a weight support group for those who want help and encouragement shedding those unwanted pounds.  The group meets every month on Thursday afternoons for 1 hour.  The group is limited to 10 patients so the meetings can be informal and personal.

 

The next meeting will be on August 14, Thursday, at 1pm in our staff lounge.
If you want information on this group, please call either Marilyn or Nan.
 
**Protime Support Group, coming soon!
 
Elena, Dr. Lakin's medical assistant, is starting a similar support group for patients on blood thinning medications.  Elena has information and suggestions to help you maintain proper treatment and help manage your condition.  For more information, please call the office, and ask for Nan.
 
**Diabetic Support Group, coming soon!
 
Elena also will be starting a support group for diabetic management and counseling.  This will be a small group, and will meet once a month.
Please call our office and ask for Nan if interested in attending Elena's group.

 

 
We hope you will take advantage of our new programs.  We are always open to new ideas to help serve your healthcare needs.  We have more events in the planning.  Keep posted!

 

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Spice Mix:                                                                            
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tbsp lemon pepper
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp dried thyme
 
Kebabs:
16 large raw shrimp, deveined
2 medium onions, peeled
1 large green or red bell pepper,
   seeded & quartered lengthwise
1 lemon, cut into 8 wedges
2 medium zucchini, cut into 1" slices
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil for brushing
 
Combine spices in a small bowl.  Stir until well blended. Set aside.
Wash shrimp in cold water; blot dry. 
Cut each onion into 4 wedges, and cut each wedge crosswise in half.
Cut each pepper quarter crosswise in half.  Heat grill to high.
Thread ingredients onto skewer: lemon wedge, red pepper, onion, shrimp,
and then zucchini.  End kebab with lemon.
Repeat for remaining 3 kebabs.  Brush each with olive oil, and
Sprinkle with spice mix.
 
Arrange kebabs on hot grill, and cook until shrimp are firm and pink, 6-8 minutes.
Brush kebabs at least once with oil as they cook.
 
Makes 4 servings.
 
 Approximate values per serving:
164 calories, 11g fat, 1g saturated fat,
36mg cholesterol, 12g carbohydrates,
7g protein, 1536mg sodium, 3g fiber
 
**60% of calories from fat

 
                                                                                                     -By Karen Fernau, The Arizona Republic


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Your Moment of Zen....... 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                      Peace......

 

 

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