“People can get infected through contaminated blood from a person who has hepatitis C,” says Martha Saly, director of the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR). “While many people associate hepatitis C with injection drug use, there are some people who don’t know how or when they became infected.”

Many myths prevail about this often-hidden disease. Here are the five things you need to know about hepatitis C:

Hepatitis C often has no symptoms.

Unlike many other diseases, people with hepatitis C often have no symptoms. In fact, a person can live with an infection for up to 20 or 30 years without feeling sick, even though liver damage may be taking place all along. “You can actually look and feel healthy and still have hepatitis C,” says Saly. “The danger in having no symptoms is that when or if symptoms do appear, they can be a sign of serious liver damage. That’s why hepatitis C is often referred to as a ‘silent’ epidemic.”

Doctors do not routinely test for hepatitis C.

You may think that you’ve already been tested for hepatitis C, but blood tests for hepatitis C are not typically done as a part of annual check-ups.

Hepatitis C is a leading cause of liver cancer.

Rates of liver cancer in the United States have tripled over the last several decades, and at least half of these cases are attributable to hepatitis C. “Left undetected and untreated, chronic hepatitis C can lead to serious liver problems and even liver cancer,” says Saly. About 15,000 people die every year from liver disease related to hepatitis C.

Getting tested for hepatitis C is critical.

Getting tested for hepatitis C involves a simple blood test. To find out if you are at risk, take the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) online Hepatitis Risk Assessment, available at CDC’s Know More Hepatitis campaign website: www.cdc.gov/HEPATITIS/riskassessment.

Treatments are available for hepatitis C.

Last year, the Food and Drug Administration approved new treatments for hepatitis C. The new treatments are more effective, and can eliminate the virus from the body.

To learn more about hepatitis C, visit www.nvhr.org.

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(ARA) – Nearly 19 million Americans are affected by acid reflux disease (ARD), also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is characterized by heartburn occurring two or more days a week despite treatment and diet changes. Spike Mendelsohn – a well-known celebrity chef and owner of several restaurants in the Washington, DC area – is one of the millions affected by ARD, and he has to manage the uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptoms of heartburn related to acid reflux disease.

“Just like you, I face stressful situations every day – in the kitchen, at work, and at home,” notes Chef Spike, who grew up working in the restaurant business alongside his family. “As someone who has acid reflux disease, I work hard to make sure my heartburn doesn’t heat up. I’m passionate about everything related to food – learning new cuisines from my travels, getting creative with my own recipes, and sharing what I’ve learned with others. I’ve tried to instill that same thinking to my health – being proactive helps me manage my acid reflux disease.”

Chef Spike has partnered with Takeda Pharmaceuticals U.S.A, Inc., the makers of DEXILANT (dexlansoprazole), on the “Don’t Let it Burn” campaign, to help educate millions of Americans about acid reflux disease and the importance of talking to a doctor for information about managing symptoms, including diet and lifestyle changes. Lifestyle tips, music, heartburn-friendly recipes and more can all be found on DontLetitBurn.com.

“To help manage my acid reflux disease, I worked with my doctor to come up with a treatment plan that, for me, includes taking DEXILANT,” explains Chef Spike. “Together with adjustments to what I eat and my lifestyle, it’s helped turn down the heat on the heartburn I experience because of my ARD. Everyone is different, so it’s important for people to work with their doctor to come up with a management approach that works for them.”

“It is very important for patients to be proactive and understand that they can work with their doctor to find an appropriate plan for treating their acid reflux disease,” says David A. Peura, M.D., Emeritus Professor of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine. “One treatment option I prescribe for my appropriate ARD patients is DEXILANT. DEXILANT can provide up to 24 hours of heartburn relief.”

With personal tips and recipes from Mendelsohn, www.DontLetitBurn.comcontains helpful information and facts about acid reflux disease, including:

• Acid reflux disease can occur in both men and women, with varying severity of the disease among patients
• Lifestyle modifications are part of a treatment plan to help manage a patient’s acid reflux disease. Some include:
• Avoid common trigger foods, such as fried or fatty foods, citrus foods, onions, and tomato-based foods as well as alcohol, coffee and other caffeinated drinks, chocolate, peppermint and spearmint
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Eat small, frequent meals rather than large amounts of food at one time
• Try not to wear tight-fitting clothing around your waist
• Elevate the head of your bed 6-8 inches
• Be smoke-free

About DEXILANT (dexlansoprazole) 30 mg and 60 mg delayed release capsules

Persistent heartburn two or more days a week, despite treatment and diet changes, could be acid reflux disease (ARD). Prescription DEXILANT capsules are used in adults for 4 weeks to treat heartburn related to ARD, for up to 8 weeks to heal acid-related damage to the lining of the esophagus (called erosive esophagitis or EE), and for up to 6 months to continue healing of EE and relief of heartburn. Individual results may vary. Most damage (erosions) heals in 4-8 weeks.

Important Safety Information

DEXILANT may not be right for everyone. Do not take DEXILANT if you are allergic to DEXILANT or any of its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions have been reported. Tell your doctor if you get any of the following symptoms with DEXILANT: rash, face swelling, throat tightness, or difficulty breathing. Symptom relief does not rule out other serious stomach conditions. People who are taking multiple daily doses of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medicines for a long period of time may have an increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine. Low magnesium levels can happen in some people who take a PPI medicine.

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To help you understand what may prompt summer allergies and asthma attacks, the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) answers common questions and separates fact from fiction.

Are allergies less common in the summer?

Pollen counts tend to be high during the spring and dissipate in early summer. But weather changes can elevate allergy symptoms. Strong winds stir up molds and pollens. Outdoor molds contribute to most summer symptoms, until weeds begin to pollenate in early August. Because the severity of allergies depends on weather conditions, and different types of pollens peak at different times, it’s difficult to classify a certain season as being the worst for allergies.

What are other common summer allergy triggers?

More than 12 million Americans suffer from food allergies. Seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as melons, peaches and celery, can be allergy-causing culprits. However, the cause isn’t always the food itself. Allergic reactions often occur as part of a cross-reaction among similar proteins in fruits and vegetables and allergy-causing grass, tree or weed pollens. If you experience severe discomfort after eating a certain type of fruit or vegetable, see an allergist to find relief and develop a treatment plan.

Are stinging insects attracted to certain people?

Two million Americans are allergic to insect stings, and many of these individuals are at risk of suffering life-threatening reactions to insect venom. While the jury is still out on what makes certain people more susceptible to biting and stinging pests than others, sweet smelling perfumes and bright clothing are known to attract these insects. If you experience facial swelling, difficulty breathing or another unusual reaction after insect stings, call 911 and receive immediate emergency care. Follow-up with an allergist, who will prescribe epinephrine and possibly allergy shots that can save your life.

Are some people allergic to chlorine?

The short answer is no, chlorine is not an allergen. However, the smell of chlorine is an irritant for some, causing allergy-like eye and nose itching and discomfort. Some people with asthma also experience difficulties when coming in contact with chlorine.

What other summer activities can be problematic?

Summer sports and other outdoor activities can be difficult for those suffering from asthma symptoms or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB). Believe it or not, baseball games can create a hazard zone for those suffering from peanut allergies. When attending games, try to keep away from peanut shells and debris, and carry allergist prescribed epinephrine. Smoke from summer staples like campfires and fireworks can also be bothersome for asthma sufferers. Allergists advise to avoid smoke or sit upwind if possible.

Anyone with allergies and asthma should be able to feel good, be active all day and sleep well at night this summer. No one should accept less. A board-certified allergist can identify the source of your seasonal suffering and develop a treatment plan to eliminate symptoms. To find an allergist, and to find relief visit AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.

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NJ Top Dentist – Samuel Romano, D.M.D.

Scotch Plains, NJ- May 2012

Dr. Samuel Romano, DMD, a NJ Top Dentist has been recognized for his exceptional passion for dentistry and his comprehensive dental care.  Dr. Romano has maintained membership within numerous professional organizations such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Dental Association, NJ Dental Association, and the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation among many others. Among his many appointments he is also a Clinical Instructor at the prestigious Kois Center for Dental Excellence where he is part of a select staff who teaches other dentists from all over the world.

Dr. Romano specializes in all aspects of family dentistry.  His office offers a full range of restorative, cosmetic, and general services to keep the mouths of their patients healthy, and looking spectacular.  This practice also offers Sedation Dentistry to fit the needs of patients’ that experience extreme dental anxiety.  Dr. Romano’s practice in Madison, New Jersey makes all of their patients feel welcome, and comfortable.

“For the past 26 years I have heard horror stories from patients about their experience with dentistry, I have dedicated my career to mastering my skills, assembling state-of-the-art technology, acquiring a caring staff all with the intent to change your perception of dentistry for a lifetime. I not only care about your teeth, I care about you.”

A general dentist is licensed to practice all areas of dentistry.  General dentists can determine the patient’s oral health after performing a complete dental exam.  All relevant information about a patient and their mouth is then gathered, and a treatment plan is then orchestrated to obtain optimal oral health.  Dr. Samuel Romano is a general dentist who conveniently also offers cosmetic services. Cosmetic Dentistry is a branch of medicine that is performed to improve the facial appeal, smile, and beauty of the denture in a person by focusing on altering existing dental arrangements and features of a patient to increase their aesthetic appeal.

Dr. Romano has extensive experience in the treatment of:

• Family Dentistry
• Porcelain Veneers
• Crowns and Bridgework
• Dental Implants
• Teeth Whitening
• Dentures
• Endodontics (Root Canals)
• TMJ Disorders and Headaches
• Gum Disease
• Preventative Care
• Invisalign®
• Sedation Dentistry
• Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Dr. Romano’s practice is conveniently located in Madison, New Jersey.  For more information please visit Dr. Romano’s full profile at:

http://www.njtopdocs.com/DrSamuelRomano

About Us

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NJTopDocs.com and NJTopDentists.com allow patients to “meet” these providers online before making their appointment.

For more information, e-mail us at info@NJTopDocs.com and/or visit www.NJTopDocs.com.

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(ARA) – Of the 15 million American adults who suffer from major depression each year, less than 25 percent currently receive treatment despite the fact that depression can be effectively managed with therapy and medication.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. If you are diagnosed with depression and currently taking an antidepressant, this is a good time to talk with your doctor about how you are doing. Antidepressants affect individuals differently, so it is important to let your doctor know how your antidepressant is working for you.

Medication can help reduce symptoms of depression. The first antidepressant you try may work fine. However, if it doesn’t relieve your symptoms the way you think it should, or causes side effects that bother you, there may be other options to consider. Research has shown that not all medications work for all patients; that is why additional treatment options are needed.

This May, or at your next appointment, make it a point to speak candidly to your doctor about your treatment experience and whether your current antidepressant is the right option for you.

Tips for talking to your doctor

How do you know if your antidepressant is really working for you? Antidepressants work differently for different people. It is important to speak to your doctor about:

• Your specific symptoms. Symptoms of depression can vary. It is important to share your symptoms with your doctor so he or she can take them into account when selecting a treatment for you. If you still have unresolved symptoms of depression, talk with your doctor.
• Your current treatment experience. Some side effects, such as weight gain, reduced sex drive, trouble sleeping, nausea and diarrhea, can make it difficult to stick with treatment. Though some of these topics may be hard to discuss openly with your doctor, it is important that you do, as there could be another option out there for you. The more your doctor knows, the better he/she can help tailor treatment to meet your specific needs.

There are a number of different antidepressant options available. VIIBRYD&reg (vilazodone HCl), which became available in 2011, is the most recently approved antidepressant by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). VIIBRYD is the first drug of its kind approved by the FDA to treat depression in adults. While the exact way VIIBRYD – or any other medication for depression – works is unknown, it is thought to affect the activity of serotonin in the brain.

Antidepressants increased the risk compared to placebo of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, teens, and young adults. Depression and certain other psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with increases in the risk of suicide. Patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior.

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Surgical technology can be a rewarding career choice for those looking to enter the health care arena. This option requires a two-year associate of science degree. As more and more of the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age, the demand for health care workers will rise. Even in today’s stunted job market, the health care sector showed growth in March 2012 despite fewer overall job gains than in recent months, according to a U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Press Release.

Kat LaRue CST, Surgical Technology Program chair at Brown Mackie College – Greenville offers insight into this career choice.

“A surgical technologist works as an important part of the operating room (OR) team and participating in surgery is the main focus of this specialty career,” she says. Responsibilities are varied for these professionals. Duties begin with preparing the OR for each surgery. Equipment must be in good working order and sterilized to prevent infection. All appropriate instruments for the specific procedure must be counted and set up. In addition, surgical technologists prepare patients for the operation by washing and disinfecting the incision area and helping the surgical team put on sterile gowns and gloves.

“During the procedure, the surgical technologist makes surgery go as smoothly as possible by counting instruments and supplies to ensure nothing gets left behind in the patient,” says LaRue. “They hand instruments to the surgeon and serve as an extra set of eyes and ears in making sure nothing goes wrong. After the procedure, the surgical technologist does another instrument count, and sometimes transfers the patient to a recovery room.”

Whether joining the profession as a first or second career, surgical technologists take pride in being medical professionals, working with doctors and nurses on behalf of patients. People who are well suited for a career as a surgical technologist tend to have an eye for detail, the ability to think critically and multitask, and have empathy for patients.

Many surgical technologists find employment at hospitals and in-patient facilities, and some work for dental surgeons in a dentist office. “Some travel and take temporary positions in different cities with a six-month or two-year contract,” LaRue says. “The facility pays for lodging for the traveling employee.”

Some states require surgical technologists to pass a certification exam given by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). LaRue has co-authored the updated and newly released Pearson’s Surgical Technology Exam Review. The book is a professional reference volume designed to prepare students who plan to test for certification. It offers a thorough review of course studies, containing relevant topical material and corresponding practice questions. The NBSTSA is working toward a national standard where all states would adopt the exam as mandatory.

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that somewhere between 50 and 70 million adults in the United States have chronic sleep and wakefulness disorders.

According to the National Institutes of Health, sleep disorders account for approximately $16 billion in annual health care costs, and Cornell University psychologist and sleep expert James Maas estimates that sleep deprivation and sleep disorders cost the American economy at least $150 billion a year.

Sleep deprivation is not only costly, but dangerous too. After a review of national behavioral health data, the CDC found that one in 20 adults reported nodding off or falling asleep while driving at least once in 30 days.

Short term sleep loss can lead to slower reaction times, headaches, aches and pains, irritability, shorter attention span and hindered decision making.

The health effects of chronic insomnia are more difficult to study, largely because individuals with insomnia are oftentimes simultaneously suffering from other health ailments, and it becomes difficult to determine the difference between a direct correlation and a mere statistical association. However, there is documented association between sleep deprivation and diabetes, weight gain, hypertension, and lower immunity. All of these maladies can lead to even greater health problems, including heart failure, stroke, kidney disease and death.

Considering the risks of not sleeping, it is not surprising that so many people turn to pharmaceuticals for help. According to IMS Health, Americans spent about $2 billion on prescription sleep drugs in 2010. In 2010 alone, 60 million prescriptions for sleep aids were written.

Unfortunately, sleep aids carry their own medical risks. As is the case with many prescription drugs, there is a chance of increased tolerance and physical and psychological dependency. Many sleep aids on the market come with side effects that range from bizarre to dangerous. Sleep aids have been connected with various incidents of sleep walking; everything from night eating to actually getting into vehicles and driving, while still asleep.

Most recently, a study by researchers at Scripps Clinic Viterbi Family Sleep Centre in San Diego has linked hypnotic sleeping pills to a 4.6 percent greater risk of death and a 35 percent increased risk of cancer among regular pill users.

So is there another answer to alleviating insomnia? Maurice Bard, founder and CEO of Mediflow Inc., a company that makes waterbase cervical pillows, is hopeful. “Before turning to prescriptions or other more drastic measures, you should examine some non-pharmaceutical remedies that could help your sleep problems. The answer to your insomnia may be simpler than you think.”

Consider the following sleep tips:

Think of a relaxing place

Go on a virtual trip in your mind by picturing a place from childhood. Trace the roads and paths of this region until you arrive at a certain place. Usually, you’ll be sleeping before you arrive at your destination.

Expose yourself to bright lights when you wake up

Exposure to bright light early in the morning, typically for 30 to 40 minutes, has been shown to promote healthy habits and a good night’s sleep.

Change your pillow

The ideal pillow is one that helps you maintain natural alignment between your neck, head and spine as you shift positions during the night. Because people tend to change sleeping positions at multiple times during the night, finding the right pillow is not always easy. A waterbase pillow is a good solution, because the water gently disperses and fills the region between your shoulder and jaw, to maintain proper cervical support – no matter what position you sleep in.

Establish a routine

By keeping a regular bedtime, your body becomes trained to ritually wind down and speed up, thus bringing on sleep more consistently. Consider avoiding daytime naps, as they may alter your body’s natural sleep cycle. Abstaining from naps helps to keep the body on schedule.

“There is no single answer to insomnia,” Bard says. “But at Mediflow, we understand the importance of a good night’s sleep. We firmly believe that combining the right products with a healthy lifestyle can help individuals create an overall sleep strategy that should help lessen sleep woes.”

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Many parents may not know how important it is to vaccinate their children at specific times and with a certain number of doses. Vaccinations can help protect children before age 2 from 14 childhood diseases. Maintaining the schedule of a child’s well visits helps ensure children get the vaccines they need, at the right times.

“While vaccination has helped eliminate or significantly reduced many childhood diseases, it may surprise people to know that some of these diseases still exist,” says Dr. Jaime Fergie, director of Infectious Diseases at Driscoll Children’s Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas. “It’s important that we are diligent in helping children to receive the protection they need.”

Dr. Fergie recommends checking your child’s health records to see if their vaccinations are up-to-date. Make an appointment with your child’s physician if they are not or if you have questions. For more information, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/vaccines.

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“While I know fry bread is popular in Phoenix, fried foods are high in trans-fats because of the oils used, which can increase the risk of heart disease,” said Oz, best-selling author and host of a popular syndicated TV show.

“So limit yourself to a celebratory indulgence instead of making it a staple in your diet.”

Oz was in Phoenix last month on a promotional tour and decided to surprise Kendra Farrell, a 10-year-old fan from Gilbert who had sent him a letter that touched him. Kendra, unaware that Oz was in town, was invited to the Channel 3 (KTVK) studios for a tour and got the chance to introduce Oz.

We caught up with Oz and asked him his picks for the most healthful foods available in the Valley.

1.) Citrus: Good for stress and your heart

Citrus fruits are best known for their vitamin C content. On average, a large citrus fruit contains more than a day’s worth of immune-system-enhancing vitamin C, which also helps blast belly fat by lowering cortisol and other stress-released hormones.

Citrus fruits also are packed with fiber, nutrients and antioxidants, which help make your heart healthy. Citrus fruits contain the flavonoid hesperidin, which recently has been shown to help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

2.) Achiote paste: Fights cancer formation

Achiote paste contains high levels of tocotrienols, which are antioxidants similar to vitamin E. Tocotrienols are potent anti-inflammatory compounds that have been shown to fight cancer formation. They also are effective at lowering cholesterol and may guard against heart disease.

3.) Chipotle: Treats chronic pain and has anti-cancer properties

This powder, made from smoke-dried jalapeño peppers, contains high levels of capsaicin, making it a healthful addition to traditional foods of the Southwest. Traditionally, capsaicin has been used as a natural analgesic, treating chronic pain and arthritis. Recent studies have shown that capsaicin has anti-cancer properties, slowing tumor growth and migration, and that it can fight obesity by increasing energy expenditure and slowing body-fat accumulation.

4.) Nopales: Lower cholesterol

Nopales, pads of the prickly-pear cactus, have been used medicinally for centuries. The cactus has high levels of dietary fiber and has been shown to decrease cholesterol levels in human and animal studies. Historically, it has been used to treat mild cases of type 2 diabetes, and several animal studies support its use to lower blood-sugar spikes after large meals.

Learn more about HCG Diets

Children’s dental health is a major concern when you consider that:
* One third of all children in America are without dental insurance.
* More than 16 million children in the U.S. have untreated tooth decay, more than any other chronic infectious disease, including asthma, early-childhood obesity and diabetes.
* Approximately 80 percent of tooth decay in this country is suffered by 25 percent of its children.
* Household economic disadvantage is the single best predictor of tooth decay in children.
* 51 million school hours are lost each year to untreated cavities.

That’s why Biffle teamed up with 3M ESPE Dental, Henry Schein Cares, the American Dental Association (ADA) and the ADA Foundation to Give Kids a Smile and put good oral health on the fast track for young fans of NASCAR. Across the country, Biffle is helping deliver the message to children about healthy habits like brushing, flossing, visiting the dentist and making smart food choices.

“As a parent, I want to do everything I can to protect my daughter’s health and teach her good lifelong habits,” says Biffle. “When you consider how much dental health impacts children’s ability to learn, self-confidence and overall quality of life, you want to do everything you can to help them be healthy. For children in need, it is even more of a challenge, so we’re working with 3M ESPE Dental, the American Dental Association, the ADA Foundation and Henry Schein Cares to provide education, free screenings and treatments.”

Biffle shared these recommendations from the ADA for your children:
* Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss once a day.
* Eat a balanced diet and avoid sugary snacks and drinks. Frequent access to sugary drinks, not the quantity, increases the likelihood of tooth decay by feeding bacteria that attacks tooth enamel.
* Visit the dentist regularly.
* Reward children each time they exhibit good dental health, perhaps with a sticker on a calendar.
* Make dental care non-negotiable. Children know they must be buckled in car seats. Dental health should be equally mandatory.
* Set a good example by following these recommendations. Research shows that children mimic parents who exhibit good dental health.

Biffle is supporting the yearlong celebration of the Give Kids A Smile program’s 10th anniversary in 2012. Fans can follow the program on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GiveKidsASmile. The yearlong education program includes a national public service announcement featuring Biffle and ongoing outreach to parents and children, community events and media. Give Kids A Smile is an ADA initiative where dentists and their dental teams provide free oral health care services to children from underserved communities across the country. Throughout the year, there will be more than 1,600 Give Kids A Smile events around the country providing dental services to more than 400,000 underserved children.

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