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

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Introduction1 Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a difficult disorder for physicians and for patients because symptoms occur in the absence of definite intestinal pathology. What this basically means is that patients have symptoms of GI upset, cramping, diarrhea, and/or constipation but physicians don’t have anything specifically to treat. Additionally, the cause remains unknown. Nonetheless, theories exist at least on the mechanisms behind IBS and treatments are available. Overview and Prevalence Symptoms of IBS come and go.... read more

Depression Introduction Depression is extremely common disease. Unfortunately, up to 2/3 of people with depression are not aware that they have the disease. Consequently, many people with depression do not seek professional help for this treatable illness.   What Is Depression? Depression is actually classified into several difference disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD), melancholic or catatonic depression, atypical depression, psychotic features, bipolar depression, single or recurrent episode, dysthymia, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Each classification has its own criteria... 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