white-wilson

Category: Health Tips

  • Ups and Downs: Weight Gain and Hormone Changes

    It’s no secret that as we age, our bodies experience a variety of changes. While most changes are inevitable parts of life, there are a few signs of aging that, with the help of your primary care provider and a few lifestyle changes, you can ease. Take weight gain for example.

    “Everyone, regardless of gender, can experience weight gain as they age,” explains Dr. Melissa Chrites, an internist at White-Wilson Medical Center in Fort Walton Beach. “While this is due to a lot of different changes happening in the body, one factor that plays a big part is changes in hormones.”

    According to Dr. Chrites, hormone changes happen to all of us as we age, and these changes can result in weight fluctuations. This is especially true for women.

    “As women grow older and enter menopause, hormone levels can change significantly,” says Dr. Chrites. “One of the biggest culprits of this being estrogen. While dropping estrogen levels don’t directly cause weight gain, this decrease can make it easier to gain weight by slowing your metabolism and make weight more visible by decreasing muscle mass.”

    A person’s metabolism is the process by which their body converts food and drink into energy.  The “faster” your metabolism is, the more calories your body can burn while at rest. This means a “slower” metabolism burns fewer calories at rest and may make it easier for you to gain weight than before.

    “Estrogen changes also affect muscle mass and how weight is distributed along the body.” Dr. Chrites explains. “When estrogen levels decrease so too does muscle mass. This decrease can result in more of what is called ‘visceral’ weight or weight that is noticeably visible. Whereas before, you were holding weight in your muscles and it was less visible, now it appears more visibly, oftentimes around your midsection.

    “These are just two reasons why maintaining or increasing your physical activity is so important as you age,” she continues. “Physical activity helps us burn those excess calories that our metabolism doesn’t get to and helps us tone our bodies to decrease the visibility of fat.”

    There are other hormones changes that can play a role in weight gain as we age. These include:

    • Testosterone, which affects both men and women and also affects muscle mass and metabolic rate. Like estrogen, testosterone tends to decrease as we age.
    • Insulin, which affects how your body creates and uses glucose. If you become insulin resistant, the excess glucose in your body is turned into fat. As you age, you become more likely to become insulin resistant.

    Now that we know which hormonal changes can contribute to weight gain as we age, what can we do about it?

    “As is the case at any age, adopting healthy habits is key to controlling and losing weight,” explains Dr. Chrites. “These include the usual suspects such as getting enough physical exercise and eating the right foods, as well as getting enough sleep and maintaining low levels of stress.

    “There are also medical ways to combat hormonal changes and weight gain,” she continues. “There are many factors to consider before using medications and hormone therapies and so it is important to understand how they will affect other parts of your health as well. Your White-Wilson primary care provider can talk with you about these methods and through the help of appropriate specialists, determine if they could possibly work for you.

    “Even if hormone therapies don’t seem to be a fit, don’t fret. Your primary care physician will be here to help you develop plans and implement methods that will keep you happy, and most importantly, healthy for many more years.”

    Dr. Melissa Chrites is an Internist at White-Wilson Internal Medicine clinic in Fort Walton Beach. Dr. Chrites specializes in primary care, the diagnosis and treatment of chronic illness and women’s wellness. She has a special interest in weight management and disease prevention. Learn more about Dr. Chrites’ approach to patient care and schedule your appointment with her here.

  • Tips for Navigating the Formula Shortage Crisis

    By Dr. Dale Volquartsen, Pediatrician

    Many parents today are faced with difficult decisions concerning the feeding of their infants in the midst of what is now a crisis due to the shortage of infant formula. As with most crises, there are numerous factors that play into the shortage.  For one, as the nation is emerging from the pandemic and there has been a significant increase in demand that was not anticipated. For another unexpected reason, fewer mothers are electing to nurse their children and that’s increasing the demand for formula. The largest factor, however, is the closure of a factory in Michigan where Abbott produces a large portion of their formula. In 2021, there were four infants, two of which who died, who are believed to have been made ill by consuming formula that became contaminated with bacteria from that factory. In February, that formula was recalled and the factory was closed. It is expected to reopen soon, but the supply will likely take about two months to reach the shelves.

    This shortage may be leaving families feeling desperate and willing to turn to potentially dangerous alternatives.

    Avoid these common mistakes:

    1. Please do not attempt to make your own formula. Right now, the internet is being flooded with people promoting different formula recipes. This is not a new phenomenon and has resulted in bad outcomes for infants in the past. Too much protein can harm an infant’s kidneys and liver. Inadequate electrolytes such as sodium have resulted in seizures and death. Inadequate fat and sugar content has a lasting effect on brain health and development. These are just a few of the bad outcomes from these imbalanced alternatives.
    2. Do not water down formula to make it “stretch”. The baby will get inadequate calories and the lower electrolytes can lead to seizures and death.
    3. I recommend that whole cow’s milk only be introduced after the first birthday. After six months of age, a day or two may be acceptable but only as the very last resort. The protein is more difficult for an infant to digest and cow’s milk increases the risk of iron deficiency.
    4. Plant-based milk alternatives are never appropriate alternatives for infants. Even though the ingredient labels may be similar to cow’s milk formulas, the actual ingredients are different in function. This means that the infant’s body does not metabolize and use those ingredients the same way.
    5. Toddler formulas are significantly different than infant formulas and should not be used except in older infants and only after all other options have been exhausted.
    6. The FDA and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that you do not purchase formula imported from outside America. There are numerous reasons for this, but the primary concerns include the difference consumer protection rules, shipping concerns and language/labeling risks. The importing of formula is also highly regulated, making it more difficult and expensive to procure.
    7. Avoid the temptation to hoard formula when you find it. This is actually part of the reason we are in such short supply. Early in the pandemic, there was widespread hoarding. This was followed by a significant decrease in demand the following year since there were ample supplies in homes. With the decreased demand, the formula companies did not accurately predict the demand for this current year.

    So, what is a mom to do in the face of this shortage? There are no simple answers, but here are some recommendations:

    1. If able, rely on nursing as much as possible. No formula can hold a candle to the milk a mother provides for her infant. Even if you are only able to provide a few ounces a day, that may make a big difference for your baby. Contact a lactation consultant in the case you may even be able to help a mother re-lactate.
    2. Look in smaller stores where the shortage may not have had such a large impact.
    3. For most babies, switching to a different formula or brand will not be a problem. However, if you have your baby on a special formula, ensure you speak with your pediatrician before making a switch. Samples of the proper formula may be available.  Your pediatrician will also ensure that the options chosen are healthy and appropriate.  Further, anyone needing a specialized formula can call Abbott at 1-800-881-0876 to request a formula on a case by case basis.
    4. If you qualify for WIC, be sure to enroll as they are the single largest customer purchasing infant formulas. SNAP (food stamps) and food banks may also be a solution. Here in the Florida Panhandle, you can call 2-1-1 to be connected with public services and nonprofits that that may be able to help.
    5. There may be some community groups that are working with families as well. They will often coordinate through social media outlets.

    I am confident that we will get through this crisis. Why?  Because we know we have excellent parents caring for their children.  We, the pediatricians of White-Wilson, are here to help all of you through this time and to help you make the best choices for your growing child.  Don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for any questions or concerns you have.

    Dr. Dale Volquartsen is a board-certified pediatrician with more than 30-years’ experience caring for children. Dr. Volquartsen cares for patients at White-Wilson Medical Center in DeFuniak Springs, Florida where he is accepting new patients.

  • Myth Busters: Only Allergists Can Treat Allergies

    With Spring in full bloom and summer just around the corner, we are seeing more than just tourists arriving here on the Emerald Coast. As is evident by the yellow dust showing up on our cars and, well, everywhere else, allergen levels are on the rise and with them often come an uncomfortable pressure in our heads and noses and itching in our throats. For some, these conditions are a seasonal nuisance, something to just grin and bear for a couple months, but for others, allergies have a serious effect on their overall wellbeing.

    In patients whose allergies result in more than a slightly stuffy nose and scratchy voice, seeking help from a medical professional can minimize or completely relieve these symptoms. When it comes to the medical treatment of allergies, most people generally think of Allergists, but did you know there is another type of doctor who can help?

    “Otolaryngologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders of the ear, nose and throat, but otolaryngology is a mouthful, so you’ll most commonly hear us referred to as ENT doctors,” explains White-Wilson ENT physician, Dr. Roger Skiles. “As specialists we are very experienced in treating any type of inflammation or discomfort in these areas and that includes those caused by allergies.”

    According to Dr. Skiles, allergy symptoms can often be mistaken for other conditions. Visiting an ENT physician in cases where the symptoms last a long time or are reoccurring can help narrow down the cause.

    “Especially this time of year, you will see a lot of patients coming into doctors’ offices complaining of sinus pain and itchy throats,” he explains. “They think it’s nothing but a sinus infection or cold, but many times, there is a greater underlying cause – allergies. We are able to administer tests to patients, exposing them to common allergens and determine which triggers a response. Once we know what is causing the allergic reaction, we can make a plan to offer long term relief or, potentially, prevent symptoms from returning.”

    Today, we have more treatment options than ever before, so just because symptoms are reoccurring, doesn’t mean they have to be. If you are experiencing repeated allergy or sinus issues, Dr. Skiles recommends you first talk to your primary care provider so that they can recommend a specialist that is best suited for your needs.

     

    Dr. Roger Skiles is a fellowship-trained Ear, Nose and Throat specialist caring for patients at the White-Wilson Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic in Fort Walton Beach. Dr. Skiles is board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and has more than 40 years of experience caring patients. Learn more about Dr. Skiles and his approach to patient care here.

  • Mid-Year Health Screening Breakdown

    The halfway mark of the year is upon us and it’s time to take stock of all that you have accomplished and what is yet to come. While it’s a lot more fun to think about all the things you have achieved so far in the year, it is important to have a plan for those that still need to be done, especially when it comes to your health.

    “In order to keep yourself in tiptop shape, there are certain health screenings and exams we recommend patients receive every year,” explain Dr. Tyler Hamilton, a Family Medicine physician at White-Wilson Medical Center in Navarre. “First and foremost is your annual wellness exam.”

    As the name suggests, annual wellness exams are yearly physical where your primary care provider (PCP) reviews and charts your overall health. During these visits, your PCP will conduct a series of simple examinations, including noting your weight and height, taking a blood pressure reading, checking your lungs and heart and taking a visual examination of your physical wellbeing. The exam will include a series of questions that may be asked before your visit to get an in-depth health history and to determine areas your physician should pay extra attention to.

    “Dependent on a patient’s health history, a PCP may also order blood work to be completed prior to the annual wellness visit,” Dr. Hamilton explains. “Then when the patient comes in, we can go over the results and discuss if lifestyle or medication changes need to be made.”

    Beyond annual wellness exams, Dr. Hamilton highlights how your annual wellness visit can help you stay on track with important and potentially lifesaving screenings.

    “When I talk with a patient about a gap in their health history or the last time they received a screening, they are often surprised at how many years have lapsed,” notes Dr. Hamilton. “Especially during the pandemic, we tend to not realize how much time has passed and that we be past due for a screening. That is where a regular visit with your doctor can be lifesaving. Your doctor will make sure to order any of the screenings that you may need. The last thing we want to do is put off a screening and then find later that earlier detection would have been a game changer.”

    Additional, age based or risk factor-based screenings that your doctor may order include:

    • Colonoscopy – Should occur every 10 years beginning at age 45 for patients of normal risk. Patients with higher risk may need to begin screening earlier or receive them more often
    • Mammogram – Should occur annually for women 40 and older with normal risk of developing breast cancer. Patients with a higher risk may need to begin screening earlier.
    • Cervical cancer screening – Should occur every 3 years for females ages 20-29 and every 5 years for women ages 30-65, when combined with an HPV test.
    • Osteoporosis screening – Should occur every 15 years for female patients 60 and older with normal bone mass or only mild bone loss. More frequent testing may be required for female patients with greater bone loss.

    “Once we know your personal history and your family history, we can determine what screenings are best for you. Most of these screenings require a physician’s order so that the results can be sent to them for future monitoring and record keeping,” concluded Dr. Hamilton. “If you have a good relationship with your primary care physician, he or she will be the quarterback and your annual wellness visit is a time to review the playbook and make sure you have everything in place for the best, healthiest outcomes.”

    Dr. Tyler Hamilton cares for patients at White-Wilson Family Medicine Clinic in Navarre, Florida. He is now accepting patients of all ages. To learn more about him and his approach to patient care or to schedule an appointment online, click here.

  • How To Properly Use Over-The-Counter Medications and Supplements

    It’s no secret that medications play a huge role in health care. For as long as people have roamed this Earth, medications, in the form of herbs, pastes, mixtures, pills and more, have been utilized by health care professionals to provide our bodies and minds relief from ailments of all types.

    While medications are undoubtedly helpful to many, as with most medical interventions, there are risks associated with using them.

    “It is your doctor’s job, along with your pharmacist, to know ­what medicines you can take based on your health background,” explains White-Wilson Family Medicine physician, Dr. Kirk Garcia-Rios. “This is why prescriptions are thoroughly reviewed at doctor’s visits. We are looking for potential causes of issues that have arisen as well possible negative interactions that could occur if we introduce a new medication. This is also why you should mention to your doctor if you take any over-the-counter (OTC) medications or supplements.”

    According to Dr. Garcia-Rios, OTC medications are those reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration and determined to be “safe and effective for use by the general public without seeking treatment by a health professional.” These medications tend to treat easily identifiable ailments such as headaches, stomach aches and coughs and, when their directional label is followed precisely, have little risk for adverse side effects.

    Supplements, such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids and enzymes, on the other hand are not reviewed for safety or effectiveness by the FDA prior to being sold. This is purely up to the manufacturers. The FDA can step in if the supplement is found to be unsafe or the manufacturers are making false medical claims, but until that point, they really have little control over their sale and marketing.

    “Both OTC medications and supplements have their uses,” says Dr. Garcia-Rios. “Doctors often recommend them to patients and in many cases, you can use them with little to no adverse reactions. However, if you don’t have a set of medically-trained eyes looking at these meds before patients buy them, there is a chance that important information could be missed.”

    “For example,” he continues, “if you are on certain blood thinners, you cannot take aspirin, an OTC medication. Or you could be already on a prescribed medication that contains the same active ingredients as an OTC medication, which could ultimately lead to too much of that ingredient in your system and result in damage to your organs. The same can happen with supplements. It is possible to have too much of a particular vitamin or mineral and that can cause serious problems. Consulting with your doctor or your pharmacist can lower the likelihood of this happening.”

    In addition to consulting a medical professional before beginning a new OTC medication or supplement, Dr. Garcia-Rios emphasizes that you should also consult a doctor if the use of an OTC medication or supplement doesn’t seem to be working like it should. This will also reduce the risk of overuse and, likely, give your health care provider an opportunity to discover the underlying root of the issue and get you on your way to feeling better.

    “And finally,” says Dr. Garcia-Rios, “remember to never take a prescription medication that’s not prescribed to you personally by a doctor who has evaluated your health. Not only is this potentially against the law, but it is also extremely reckless for the reasons I mentioned before. You do not know how this medication will affect you, if you are allergic to it or if it will interact with your other medications, all of which can possibly result in severe or deadly outcomes.”

    “Prescription-level medications should only be provided by your personal physician,” he concludes. “If there is a medication you want to try, but your physician won’t prescribe it, there is likely a good reason behind it. And don’t forget, you are always welcome to seek a second opinion, just be prepared for the same outcome if using that medication will put your life in danger.”

    The providers at White-Wilson Medical Center recommend that you bring a list of your medications with you to each visit, especially your annual wellness visit. This allows us to ensure your patient record is up-to-date so we can provide the care that is right for you.

    Kirk Garcia-Rios, DO is board-certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians and has more than 15 years of experience caring patients at both military and civilian medical practices. Dr. Garcia-Rios is now accepting new patients at the White-Wilson Family Medicine Clinic in Fort Walton Beach.

  • Myth Buster: Wet Hair Can Result in a Cold

     

    Cold and flu season is well underway, and you may hear that, “you better make sure your hair is dry before going to sleep or outside, otherwise you’ll catch a cold.” This myth can be traced back for decades to when it was believed that wet sleeping conditions made people more susceptible to illness.

    This logic is applied today to going to bed with wet hair, but is there any truth behind a warning that has been passed down from one generation to the next? White-Wilson Family Medicine PA, Gary Mousseau provides insight on the issue.

    “While colds and flus circulate during colder weather seasons, you must actually be exposed to a virus to contract it,” said Gary Mousseau, PA-C. “Fortunately the common cold cannot be conjured up by a cold, wet head. The viruses that cause colds are spread from close contact with infected people or surfaces.”

    How to fight off the common cold?
    While your hair helps keep your head warm, wet hair cannot make you contract a virus you have not been exposed to. You will simply feel chilly or uncomfortable. PA Mousseau adds that you can help your immune system fight off viruses by staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of rest and exercise.

    What are the symptoms of the common cold?

    • Sore throat
    • Runny nose
    • Coughing
    • Sneezing
    • Headaches
    • Body aches

    When to seek treatment for a cold?
    While most people recover from the common cold on their own in seven to 10 days, people with a weakened immune system may develop complications. In most cases the common cold simply must run its course, however, PA Mousseau recommends seeking medical care if you or your child have any of the following symptoms:

    • Symptoms that persist for 10 or more days
    • Severe or unusual symptoms
    • Fever
    • A child younger than three months and has a fever or is acting lethargic

    If you are unsure, your health care provider is the best person to determine if you have the cold or flu and to recommend treatment.

    Takeaway:
    PA Mousseau concludes that while you will be may be more comfortable with a warm head, you cannot get sick from it. Remember to wash your hands frequently and make sure your body has the rest and nutrition it needs to fight off viruses. Stay away from people that are sick and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

    This Myth is BUSTED.

    Gary Mousseau, PA has more than 40 years of health care experience and is accepting new patient at the White-Wilson Medical Center Family Medicine Clinic

  • Is My Kidney Function Declining?

    Is My Kidney Function Declining?

    Sometimes it seems like each birthday brings a new set of ailments or pains. Our knees may ache a little more than they used to, or we might squint a little harder when reading the score of Saturday’s game. Those are just a normal sign of aging. However, it is not as easy to see what effects aging may be having on other parts of our body. We know to be concerned with the function of our heart and lungs, but few stop to wonder how their kidneys are functioning.

    Kidneys play a very big part in your day to day life. Their hard work filtering your blood is often overlooked. Unfortunately, the same goes for their gradual decline.

    “Over time, your kidney, or renal function, will decline. That is an inevitable part of aging,” says White-Wilson Medical Center Nephrologist Dr. Brad Arbogast. “What we have to watch is their rate of decline. The decline can go undetected until after major damage is done. This can result in kidney disease and a major change in quality of life.”

    In addition to regular old wear and tear, there are many risk factors that can contribute to declining kidney function. These include your age and sex – males and African American and Latino populations are at far greater risk for kidney disease. Other influencers include high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease and even long-term medication use.

    So how do you know if your kidney function is declining?

    “This is something that your primary care physician should work with you to monitor,” advises Dr. Arbogast. “Blood and urine tests will tell us what we need to know. These tests measure your estimated glomerular filtration rate or GFR. This is a telltale sign of just how well your kidneys are doing their job.”

    Measuring a person’s GFR and then tracking changes is the best way to determine how well the kidneys are filtering and alert your physician to possible decline or disease. When a person’s GFR indicates decline, that is where a kidney specialist, also known as a nephrologist, comes in.

    “Kidney disease is a major issue and without treatment can even lead to death,” warns Dr. Arbogast. “The earlier we are alerted to a decline the more options you have. Sometimes that means just watching more closely and other times it means medication or treatment. It really depends on the individual and their unique situation, and a nephrologist is specially trained to help you navigate your choices and maintain your quality of life.”

    Advances in treatment options mean that patients who are diagnosed with kidney disease have more options than ever before. Medications can help declining kidneys and dialysis can even do the work for your kidneys. Today’s treatment options allow for more flexibility and greater outcomes than ever before. However, early intervention is key.

    Dr. Arbogast recommends that everyone, no matter their age, talk with their physician about their kidney function.

    “Every day, I see patients who could have prevented or stopped damage to their kidneys but waited too late,” says Dr. Arbogast. “Be your biggest advocate, see your primary care physician regularly and talk with him or her about your test results and your concerns.”

    Dr. Charles “Brad” Arbogast is currently accepting new patients at the White-Wilson Nephrology Clinic in Fort Walton Beach. Learn more about Dr. Arbogast and his approach to care here.

  • Being There – Tips For Supporting a Loved One With Health Challenges

    When we picture our lives, we all hope that we will grow old easily and peacefully, surrounded by our loved ones who remain healthy and happy right along with us. We never picture ourselves or someone we love struggling with a serious health issue. And so when it happens, it can be hard for us to know what to say or do. For someone going through a health challenge like a major illness or injury, it is possible that they will have a difficult time coping with the changes they are experiencing both mentally and physically. As a friend or family member, it can be tough to figure out how best to help your loved one through a hard time.

    “The best thing that you can do for a loved one who is facing a health challenge is to be there,” says Dr. Gregory Stepp of the White-Wilson Family Medicine Clinic in Fort Walton Beach. “I think people often underestimate the power of a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on, but for those who are sick, it may make all the difference.”

    Being there for someone, often referred to as “social support,” has been the subject of numerous research articles in terms of its relation to health outcomes. Almost all of these studies point to the findings that having social support can greatly improve life expectancy and even act as a buffer against psychological and physical illness.

    “We also know that social support plays a huge role after the occurrence of an illness or injury,” Dr. Stepp explains. “People who have someone to talk to or help them along the way experience fewer of the depressive symptoms that often accompany a major health challenge. This can play an important role in the recovery process.”

    Beyond serving as a listening ear for someone facing a health challenge, Dr. Stepp outlines other ways someone can offer support to a loved one.
    “For example, you can offer to do mundane tasks like running errands, cooking or cleaning. This will take things off the patient’s plate and allow them to focus more of their energy on recovery.”

    Dr. Stepp also recommends:

    • Taking your loved one out to do something they enjoy and help them get their mind off their health
    • Taking into account their limitation and finding other ways to spend time with them
    • Researching what he/she is facing so you are better informed of what they may be experiencing
    • Remaining a source of optimism for them
    • Refraining from offering advice on how to cure/treat their illness
    • Confirming that their emotions are valid and encouraging them to seek additional help if needed

    “This list is not exhaustive,” Dr. Stepp reminds. “And everybody is different. What works for one person, won’t necessarily work for the next person. That’s why it is important for you, as their loved one, to be in the support role, you know them best.”

    Dr. Gregory Stepp is a Family Medicine physician at White-Wilson Medical Center in Fort Walton Beach. He currently offers same-day appointments and is now accepting new patients. Learn more about Dr. Stepp and his approach to patient care here.

  • Myth Busters: Green Nasal Mucus means it’s Time for Antibotic

    Green Nasal Mucus Means It’s Time for Antibiotics. Or Does It?

    With springtime comes allergies, and for many, a nasty runny nose. But is that runny nose just allergies, or is there an underlying infection?

    The color of our nasal mucus is not something we tend to dwell on… until of course it’s dripping like a leaky faucet. But does green or yellow nasal mucus, also known as purulent nasal discharge, mean you have a bacterial infection?

    Although this is a common myth (even amongst health care professionals), purulent nasal discharge is not a sure sign of a bacterial infection. According to the Mayo Clinic, both viral and bacterial upper respiratory infections can cause similar changes to nasal mucus.

    “When our mucus changes color, it could indicate that we have come down with anything from the common cold, allergies, a bacterial infection, like sinusitis, or another underlying illness altogether,” said White-Wilson Immediate Care physician, Dr. Chinh Vien Van.

    While the common belief is that green or yellow mucus is a sign that you have a bacterial infection and need antibiotics, that is simply not the case. Dr. Van encourages patients to pay attention to the other symptoms present.

    “It is possible to have clear mucus and a terrible sinus infection, as well as dark green mucus and the common cold,” said Dr. Van. “If you have a bacterial infection, you will likely have other symptoms such as a fever, headache, congestion or chronic discharge.”

    If you have worsening symptoms and purulent nasal discharge for more than a four days, Dr. Van recommends seeing a health care provider.

    The moral of the story? Don’t jump to any conclusions when you see green or yellow mucus.

    This myth is BUSTED.

    Dr. Chinh Vien Van is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and practices at the White-Wilson Immediate Care Clinics in Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Navarre and Niceville. White-Wilson Immediate Care Clinics are open seven days a week in Fort Walton Beach. Click here to learn more about Dr. Van and his approach to patient care, and view his video bio.

  • Understanding Heart Disease and its Long-Term Effect

    Every February we honor heart month, and it is a good yearly reminder to assess the health of our hearts and understand our risk for heart disease. With February seemingly long behind us, it’s all too easy to put our healthy heart choices on the back burner and resume our normal, busy lives. As we move into the bustling spring season, we encourage you to pause and take a pulse on your heart’s health and the health of those you care for.

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in every four deaths is attributed to heart disease, and heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. In this article, White-Wilson cardiologist, Dr. Rodney Powell, shares how healthy lifestyle choices can make a huge impact on your overall heart health and help reduce your risk for a heart complication.

    The term heart disease or cardiovascular disease refers to a wide range of conditions that affect a person’s heart. The term is frequently used to convey damage to the heart or blood vessels caused by plaque build up in the arteries. A heart attack or heart failure is essentially obstructed blood flow and a diminished oxygen supply to the heart muscle, resulting in the heart muscle tissue dying. Heart disease conditions include coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, congenital defects and many other conditions and diseases affecting heart health.

    “Many people report symptoms prior to a heart complication but heart disease can also sneak up on us completely unexpected,” said White-Wilson cardiologist, Dr. Rodney Powell. “It is so important to work with your physician to assess your risk factors and know your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. These are red flags that can indicate risk of major issues like a heart attack. This becomes increasingly important as we age and our risk for heart disease increases.”

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately half of Americans with heart disease have one of the three primary risk factors below:

    1. Smoking
    2. High Blood Pressure
    3. High LDL Cholesterol levels

    Additional risk factors for heart disease include:

    • Being overweight or obese
    • Physical inactivity
    • Diabetes
    • Poor diet
    • Excessive alcohol use

    Age, gender, stress, family history and poor hygiene leading to infection are additional risk factors for heart disease.

    “It is important to understand the risk factors for heart disease and to make positive lifestyle choices to improve your risk of a heart complication,” said Dr. Powell. “Healthy lifestyle choices can include a low fat, low sodium diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking.”

    While we cannot undo damage to our hearts from heart disease, we can reduce the risk of future complications by managing blood pressure and cholesterol. Dr. Powell recommends adapting these four lifestyle changes to mitigate the long-term effects of heart disease.

    4 Steps to a Healthier Heart:

    1. Quit smoking – it’s never too late
    2. Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, 4 times a week
    3. Maintain a healthy weight
    4. Eat a low fat, low sodium diet rich in fruits and vegetables

    “When there has been damage to one area of the heart, the other areas of the heart have to work harder,” said Dr. Powell. “Heart issues, when left untreated, can lead to life threatening issues like a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, aneurysm, cardiac arrest or peripheral artery disease (PAD).”

    If lifestyle changes are not enough to manage your heart disease, your physician may recommend medications or even a medical procedure or surgery.

    “Keeping your risk factors in check and making positive lifestyle changes are the first steps and most effective ways to prevent future complications and to live with your optimal heart health,” said Dr. Powell.

    Dr. Rodney Powell is a board-certified cardiologist at the White-Wilson Medical Center Cardiology Clinic in Fort Walton Beach, FL. Dr. Powell is accepting new patients. Click here to learn more about Dr. Powell’s approach to patient care, and watch his video bio.