As men, we often pride ourselves on being providers, problem-solvers, and pillars of strength. But let’s face it—life can throw curveballs that hit hard, especially when it comes to finances. Whether it’s an unexpected medical bill, a job loss, or past mistakes catching up, a less-than-perfect credit score can feel like a weight holding you back. The good news? There are ways to get back on track, and smart borrowing can be a tool to help you rebuild. In this... read more

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Introduction GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is a condition where excess gastric juices (acids) refluxes into the esophagus. This excess gastric juice overwhelms the natural protective mechanisms in the esophagus and causes symptoms of GERD, which typically include heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing. It may also cause esophageal inflammation (esophagitis) and/or damage but does not always do so. If you have gastroesophageal reflux disease, you’re not alone! Studies have estimated that more than 1 out of... read more

Depression Medications Several different classes of medications are used to treat depression. An explanation of each class along with examples of medications from each class is as follows: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) Work to improve mood by increasing the amount of serotonin available in the brain Have relatively few side effects, the most common being GI upset, sexual dysfunction, and decreased energy level Are preferred in children and adolescents Examples include Prozac (Fluoxetine), Celexa (Citalopram), Lexapro (Escitalopram), Paxil (Paroxetine),... read more

Non-Medicinal Treatments for Depression Psychotherapy There are many different types of psychotherapy available to assist in the treatment of depression. As previously stated, combining medical therapy with psychotherapy is more effective than either therapy used alone. Types of psychotherapy include Behavior Therapy, Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Therapy, Group Psychotherapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Supportive Psychotherapy. For more information on any of the different types of psychotherapy and on which type is most appropriate... read more

What Are the Causes of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Genetic? What causes IBD?1 Unfortunately, the primary cause of IBD is not known. IBD is characterized by an inappropriate immune reaction of the body to its own intestinal tract. This reaction results from an altered response to gut microorganisms in a genetically predisposed individual. Despite the known characteristics of the IBD disease process, the inciting event that initiates the immune reaction is not known. Smoking... read more

GERD Treatment: Lifestyle Interventions GERD treatment occurs in a stepwise manner first from lifestyle interventions to medical therapies to surgical interventions when necessary. (For medical therapies and surgical interventions see GERD Medical Treatments.) Lifestyle Interventions Lifestyle interventions for the prevention of GERD generally include eliminating factors that are known to contribute to GERD symptoms. These factors may include the following: Certain foods (i.e. coffee, alcohol, chocolate, fatty foods, spicy foods) Medications (i.e. beta-blockers, anticholinergics, nitrates, calcium channel blockers) Hormones Smoking... read more

Tanning1 Tanning is basically the immediate and long-term pigment darkening that occurs as a result of exposure to UV radiation. HAVING A TAN DOES NOT PROTECT THE SKIN FROM UV RADIATION NOR DOES IT DECREASE THE RISK OF SKIN CANCER! There is a delayed tanning effect that occurs about 3 days after sun exposure. This effect gives a sun protection factor (SPF) of about 3, which provides a small amount of protection from sunburn. However, this slight increase in protection... read more

How To Treat Depression A variety of effective treatments are available for individuals with depression. However, treating depression is not as simple as taking a pill and immediately getting better. Treatments must be customized for each individual with depression and must frequently be combined to achieve effective and lasting improvement and hopefully resolution of depressive symptoms. Additionally, depression may recur at anytime, requiring either repeat or new treatments. Medications are effective but can take weeks to months to reach full... read more

What Are the Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)? The World Gastroenterology Organization (WGO) indicates the following are general symptoms of IBD that may be associated with inflammatory bowel disease1,2: Fever Loss of appetite Weight loss Fatigue Night sweats Growth retardation Primary amenorrhea The World Gastroenterology Organization (WGO) also indicates the following symptoms may be associated with inflammatory damage in the digestive tract: 1. Diarrhea: mucus or blood may be present in the stool can occur at night incontinence may... read more

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Introduction Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a hot topic in medicine. Unfortunately, it is exceptionally common. So, what is this disease that devastates so many, and what can you do to control it? IBD is inflammation of the mucosal lining of the intestinal tract. This inflammation leads to ulcers, bleeding, and fluid and electrolyte loss. There are basically two main types of IBD: Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and Crohn’s Disease (CD). These are distinct disease entities, however they... read more