Different Types of Skin Cancer1,2,3 There are three types of skin cancer in order of gravity: melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. A complete description of each is provided below. Have a dermatologist thoroughly check your body once a year for skin cancer, and report suspicious moles immediately. Melanoma Arise from melanocytes (pigmented cells in the skin) Can develop in or around lesions already on the skin or in healthy looking skin Some types caused by UV radiation... read more

What Is Botox?1 In cosmetic applications, a Botox injection, consisting of a small dose of botulinum toxin, can be used to prevent development of wrinkles by paralyzing facial muscles. Many people would probably be surprised to know that Botox® is actually Botulinum toxin A, one of 7 deadly poisons (labeled A-F) produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. Medical grade Botox® is produced in a laboratory and is FDA approved for multiple uses. Still, it remains extremely deadly even at very... read more

COPD Prognosis COPD is the 4th leading cause of death in the United States! Unfortunately, COPD cannot be cured. It can only be treated. Thus, an individual’s COPD prognosis is based on how effectively his disease can be managed. Rates of survival are based on several factors, including an individual’s body mass index (BMI), level of airway obstruction, shortness of breath at various levels of activity, and 6-minute walking distance. The better an individual rates in each of these activities,... read more

GERD Medications There are three major classes of GERD medications for treating gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). They include antacids, H2 receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors. Additionally several surgical procedures are available to reduce GERD. 1. Antacids Antacids provide immediate, short-term relief from GERD symptoms by temporarily neutralizing acids in the esophagus. These can be used anytime to decrease the symptoms of GERD but do not provide a long-term solution as their effects only last a few minutes before symptoms return.... read more

Symptoms of Depression The initial symptoms of depression are not always the commonly described symptoms of low mood, anhedonia, and other forms of sadness. Frequently, the first symptoms of depression include tiredness, headache, GI issues, and weight loss or gain. People with depression may also become irritable or easily distracted rather than overtly sad. Basically, depression can present in a variety of ways. If you have noticed unexplained mood changes or other changes concerning for depression, please contact your primary... read more

How Does Botox Work?1 Botox® works by paralyzing the muscles that is come into contact with. Botox® actually blocks the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is essential for muscle contraction. Wrinkles are caused by multiple factors, including aging, sun damage, smoking, poor hydration, and facial muscle contraction! When a facial muscle contracts, the skin overlying that muscle is pulled along with that muscles. This movement can cause that overlying skin to form a crease. Over time, the skin crease... read more

GERD Symptoms Common GERD symptoms include the following: Heartburn Regurgitation Difficulty swallowing Less common GERD symptoms may include the following: Chest pain Sour taste in mouth Coughing, laryngitis Asthma Voice changes Aspiration Even pneumonia Diagnosis The diagnosis of GERD is usually made based on clinical signs and symptoms. Lab tests (measuring the acid levels in the esophagus or the strength of muscle contractions in the esophagus) are rarely used except in special circumstances. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (looking inside the esophagus and stomach... read more

IBS Treatment and Prognosis Interestingly, the treatment of IBS primarily involves psychological support and dietary changes. Medications are available to help with symptoms but are generally secondary. Dietary Considerations: Fiber supplementation may help with symptoms of constipation and diarrhea; however, evidence on the effectiveness of fiber is inconclusive and patients may experience increased bloating and discomfort. High water intake is important, especially for patients with constipation. Patients should also avoid foods that generally increase anxiety or bloating. Examples include caffeine... read more

Botox Side Effects?1 The potential complications of Botox® range from very minor side effects to life-threatening conditions. Generally, however, Botox® is very safe for use on patients. Side effects are not common and are usually very minor. When making the decision whether or not to use Botox®, it is important to be aware that Botox® has been in use for over 20 years and has proven to be both safe and effective. Despite the relative safety of Botox®, the drug... read more

BOTOX Introduction1 Why is it that Botox® is so popular? Many people want to be treated with this drug for aesthetic purposes, often with excellent results, as it can be used to prevent development of wrinkles by paralyzing facial muscles. Yet, how many of them really even know what it is, what it does to the body, or what the potential side effects are? As with any medical treatment, an individual receiving Botox® injections should at least have a basic... read more