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Healthy Horizons West Georgia 2015

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Welcome to Alabama's premiere health and wellness magazine! Written especially for adults 40+, find everything you need inside for tips and information on a healthier lifestyle for you and your family.
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Page 1: Healthy Horizons West Georgia 2015
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Healthy Horizons 1

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Hello Readers!Welcome to another edition of Healthy Horizons

West Georgia. As you are thumbing through the pages, I’d like to point out a few things that I think you’ll enjoy. On page 6, Ken Butler shares an inspiring story of survival. If you’re looking for a new and exciting place to take your family,find out about Historic Banning Mills and all adrenaline-pumping fun theyhave in store on page 26.

As always, please contact me or any of our team with questions, comments or suggestions. If you haven’t filled out our survey yet, take a few minutes to fill out the form on the opposite page and you’ll be entered to win a $50 gift certificate. We’ll begin working on the next issue in a few months, so now is a great time to let us know what you think!

2 Healthy Horizons

Mark, Kim and the Helms gang enjoy a meal together during a recent trip.

PublisherMark Helms256.235.1955

[email protected]

Publisher/Events Coordinator

Kimberly Helms, D.H.Ed., MSN, RN256.310.6174

[email protected]

Editor/Graphic DesignerGwen Bishop256.307.8155

[email protected]

Operations ManagerJustin Minton256.235.1957

[email protected]

Distribution/SalesCorey Burns256.235.1957

[email protected]

Contributing WritersLyn EasterwoodDonna HolderPeter Jungblut

Tony MontcalmAmrish T. Patel

Christina L. SteinL. Don Wilson

Printed by Publications Press

Montgomery, AL334.244.0436

Advertising sales or to request additional copies:

Phone: 256.235.1955Fax: 256.235.1935

Have a suggestion?Healthy Horizons

PO Box 81Choccolocco, AL 36254

www.readhealthyhorizons.com

the gang

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Copyright 2015 by Healthy Horizons Magazine. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reprinted and reproduced, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Healthy Horizons is a free publication

distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, physician offices, wellness centers, assisted living centers, hospitals and rehab centers. Please call for a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

Tell us how we’re doing!Enter to win a $50 gift card just by filling out this form.

All participants will receive a t-shirt1. Where did you find our magazine?______________________________________________________2. Do you currently use any business listed in this publication? Which one(s)?_____________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 3. Would you or have you used any of our advertisers after seeing them here? Which one(s)? ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________4. What topics would you like to see covered? Is there anything you would change in Healthy Horizons? ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________Mail form to: Healthy Horizons, PO Box 81, Choccolocco, AL 36254

Name___________________________________________ Address_________________________________________ City______________________State_____ Zip__________ Phone________________ Email _____________________ Shirt size desired _________________

All participants who send in the survey by 8/30/15 will be entered into a drawing to win a $50 gift card. All participants who send in the survey by 5/28/15 will receive a free t-shirt. Healthy Horizons reserves the right to substitute sizes based on availability. Allow six to eight weeks for your t-shirt to arrive. One per household.

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health Long road to health .................................................6 Your medical team ............................................... 10 The Process .......................................................... 12 Guardian Angel ..................................................... 14

New treatments Going green .......................................................... 16

15

4 Healthy Horizons

6

inside

28

27

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Banning Mills’ Sky Trek Bridge is not for the faint of heart! It is over 600 feet long suspension bridge that towers 190 feet high over the Snake Creek Gorge. Take a chance and check out the awesome views. See the full story on page 28.

wellness preventing injuries Cancer screening ............................................20 Carpal tunnel ...................................................22 Allergies and asthma ......................................24 don’t become a victim Haney’s Drug Store .........................................27

family Walk on the wild side Sports injuries and overuse ..........................32 Pediatric care ..................................................34

Emergency numbers .............................................38Resource guide .....................................................39Fun & Games .........................................................43

the cover

18

28

26

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healthJenny McGuire smoked her last cigarette on Independence

Day, 2014.She and her husband of more than 30 years, Jim, were

preparing for a little cookout, just the two of them. Jenny began having trouble breathing, and Jim hurried her to the emergency department at Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica.

Through the next two months, Jenny retains only one memory: Jim, at her bedside, holding and stroking her hand, imploring her, “Breathe, baby. Come on. Just breathe.”

Jenny checked herself in at the hospital, though she doesn’t remember it. She knows she had visitors — her grandkids saw her and hugged her, her daughter-in-law baked her cupcakes and brought them to the hospital (even though she couldn’t eat them), her brother and sister visited, her parents came almost every day, and Jim was up there to watch after her every day. She also knows the dates that different aspects of the care she received in the hospital changed, not through her own recollection but because of a small notebook Jim used to keep up with dates and names throughout their 68-day ordeal.

“I had to write everything down,” Jim said. “It was the only way I could keep up with it.”

Jenny had developed a urinary tract infection, or UTI, that had gone septic, spreading an infection throughout her system. She was also suffering from pneumonia and respiratory failure.

Through the next two months, Jenny struggled to live while Jim and the patient care team in the intensive care unit (ICU) at Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica worked to give her every opportunity to pull through.

He wasn’t ready to lose her“What do you want for dinner?”“I don’t know.”“We’re out of that. I’ll have to go to the store and pick up

a can.”This is the banter that couples can take for granted. It’s

also easy to take for granted the festive holiday decorations that adorn the yard of their home near Temple and the glowing Christmas tree that stands in front of the large front window of their living room. It’s a house Jim designed himself, with wide doorways and no need to step down to get to the front or back porch, so it can serve them if they should need a walker or wheelchair in their later years. He keeps the floor plan he drew up framed and hanging on the wall.

The McGuires like to travel. They have a van they use when they hit the road, and they can offer the tips a seasoned traveler would know, like it’s nearly impossible to get a hotel room on the beach in San Diego for less than $300 a night, and the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is the prettiest. They love their grandkids, their nieces and nephews. And they are

about as devoted to one another as a married couple can be.“The nurses in the ICU said they’d never seen a husband

take such good care of his woman as Jim did,” Jenny said. “He’d come up there every morning and stay with me all day, and then when he had to go home in the evening to eat a little dinner or do some laundry, he’d call the nurses desk

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several times to see how I was doing before he went to bed.”Jim sat beside her and held her hand. He kissed her.

Sometimes, after she was transferred to a rehab facility in

Rome to help her come off the ventilator, Jim even cleaned out the equipment to make sure she could breathe well.

It was on July 8, just days after she was admitted, that the staff told him it might be time to start gathering the family together. Jim had a candid conversation with Bonnie Boles,

MD, board-certified in critical care, pulmonary medicine and sleep medicine and the administrator of Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica.

“He wanted to know what else we could do,” said Dr. Boles. “He wasn’t ready to lose her. He didn’t think it was time to give up, and I agreed with him. I told him we’d do everything we could.”

Some nights, between calling the hospital to check on his wife and calling family and friends with updates on her condition, Jim logged 20 phone calls a night. Throughout, Dr. Boles kept him aware of their options and the best practices they were using, while keeping him grounded in the reality of the situation. Some people, she cautioned, never come off the vent. But that was no reason to give up.

“Jim’s strength and love had a lot to do with why I made it,” said Jenny. “Some of my family members didn’t have a lot of hope for me, but he wouldn’t give up on me.”

Jenny remained on a ventilator in the ICU from early July to Aug. 1, when she had regained enough strength that they could transfer her to Kindred Healthcare in Rome where the staff there continued to help wean her off the ventilator.

“Jim wanted her to have every option we could offer,” said Dr. Boles. “The prospect of losing her had him spoiling for a fight. If we lost her, it wouldn’t be because we held back. He was ready to try anything.”

A walking, talking miracleIt took time for Jenny to breathe on

her own again without the ventilator. Slowly, over the course of several weeks, she began to take more breaths without the aid of the machine. She regained her strength and her memories started to take hold.

“The last thing I remember was doing housework on July 4,” Jenny said. “The first thing I remember after that is

waking up at Kindred in Rome.”The weeks in between are completely lost to her.“I didn’t even know Robin Williams had died,” she said.

“Someone mentioned it, and I thought, ‘when did that happen?’ I guess God doesn’t want me to remember what it

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8 Healthy Horizons

was like, being on the ventilator and feeding tube and everything. I think it’s His way of protecting me.”

On Sept. 9, she was discharged from Kindred, and on Oct. 3, her feeding tube was removed at Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica. Her physical therapists had to accelerate her treatment plan to keep pace with her recovery.

Recounting the time they returned to visit the ICU at Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica, Jim talks about the staff like he’s known them his whole life.

“They weren’t like nurses, doctors and therapists,” he said. “They were more like family. They took care of us like we were some of their own.”

By Christmas, Jenny said she was moving a little slower. She has to take more breaks, and she fretted about getting everyone’s Christmas presents wrapped — something she usually has done in October on years when she’s not in a hospital for two months

fighting for her life. Having smoked since she was 18, Jenny hasn’t had a cigarette since July 4 and said she has only had a handful of cravings since she’s been out of the hospital.

This Christmas, she realizes, was a gift in itself.

“My nieces and nephews, when they hug me, they hug me a little longer and a little tighter now,” Jenny said. “They say, ‘we love you, Aunt Jenny.’”

Jenny said this was actually the

second time Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica had saved her life. A pulmonary embolism — a blood clot in her lungs — had sent her to the emergency department in 2009 and led

to an earlier ICU stay. She credits three things for

her recovery: God, Jim and the hospital.

“This made me realize what a good man my husband is,” Jenny said. “It also showed me how powerful prayer is. There were so many churches — probably thousands of people — praying for me throughout this. And it proved to me what a good hospital Villa Rica has. I don’t know how I would’ve come out without Tanner in Villa Rica.”

As for Jim, he tries not to think back on it too much.

“I was terrified,” he said. “I felt like a zombie. I was just trying to do whatever came next. But everyone I encountered was willing to help in any way they could.”

Jim’s strength and love had a lot to do with why I

made it. Some of my family members didn’t have a lot

of hope for me, but he wouldn’t give up on me. -Jenny McGuire

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A lot of people understand taking care of their car better than taking care of themselves.

You know where to go to get the car’s oil changed, where to go to get the tires rotated and maybe even where to go to get the brakes replaced. There are shops that specialize in specific maintenance for your car. When the car is running rough or not running at all, you take it to your mechanic or even the car dealership.

Taking care of yourself can be a bit more complicated than taking care of a car. Like auto mechanics, the doctors you choose may have specific rolls much like the different mechanics do for a car. These are the types of medical providers and services you will find in our office:

Primary Care DoctorThis is an MD trained and

board certified to manage a broad range of medical conditions in adults. These doctors will treat an immediate need like the flu and they will manage chronic conditions like your cholesterol, blood pressure or diabetes. Much of the treatment is with medication, but these doctors also provide specific guidance on nutrition and exercise. This doctor will refer you to a specialist when you need a more in-depth evaluation. The primary care doctor is like your quarterback, always involved in your health decisions. This is who you call on for guidance in making decisions about your health care. Primary care doctors at Primary Care Group are Joseph Jellicorse, MD and Hermogenes Pagsisihan, MD.

PulmonologistThis is an MD that specializes in

treating diseases of the lungs. These doctors often treat patients with COPD, severe asthma or bronchitis. The pulmonologist diagnose and treat lung cancer and other life threatening diseases of the lungs. Pulmonologists can offer patients with COPD ways to improve their breathing, allowing

them to enjoy a more active life. With proper nutrition, weight loss and a commitment to stop smoking you may just find you are more active than ever. Pulmonologists in our practice are Dr. Jeff Reid and Dr. Lindsey Roenigk.

Sleep MedicineThis is an MD that treats patients

with a variety of sleep disturbances, such as sleep apnea, insomnia and restless legs syndrome. The most common disorder we treat is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Patients with OSA often complain of fatigue, snoring and daytime sleepiness. OSA is diagnosed with a sleep study. Our doctors use Tanner’s Sleep Centers and can offer you an in-lab study or a home study.

Patients with OSA are treated with CPAP to help their breathing at night. Untreated, OSA increases your risk of heart attack, heart failure and stroke. Sleep Medicine Doctors in our practice are Dr. Jeff Reid and Dr. Lindsey Roenigk.

Physician’s AssistantA Physician’s Assistant (PA) is

licensed in medicine by the State Medical Board. The PA is part of the care team directed by a MD. The PA can treat a wide variety of issues and can specialize much like a doctor. The PA will write prescriptions, order tests and refer patients to other specialists much like a MD. In our office the PA will provide follow up care to patients on top of their duty of seeing patients with urgent needs. If you are sick and

need to be seen that same day you will likely see the PA. In our office Mandi DelPozo is the PA.

Nurse PractitionerA Nurse Practitioner (NP or NP-C) is

licensed in medicine by the state. The NP usually receives a nursing degree as an RN from a four-year college program. Following work as a Registered Nurse (RN), they continue their education with a master’s degree in medicine. An NP is part of the medical care team serving under a supervising physician. The NP writes prescriptions, reports to other physicians, and maintains a schedule like an MD. In our office the NP, Shawna Berg, sees patients for the pulmonary doctors.

Nurse EducatorA Nurse Educator is a

Licensed Practical Nurse that sees patients on behalf of a physician providing education to patients and coordinates refills on controlled substances. Because an increasing number of medications are being controlled with tighter guidelines that only allow for a 30-day prescription, we are required to assess the continued need for the medications. The

nurse educator also confirms adherence to prescription directions.

Pulmonary Function TestA pulmonary function test (PFT)

assesses your lungs for air flow obstruction, air flow restriction and the lungs’ ability to move oxygen in and out. This test has three parts, all done in one visit. The spirometry involves blowing into a mouth piece where the force of the exhaled breath is measured. Another part of the test measures lung volume. The third part of the test measures the lungs ability to deliver oxygen to the blood. The PFT is conducted in an enclosed, sealed booth that allows for measurement of pressure inside the container. There is a PFT machine is in our office so there is no referral to the hospital for this test.

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I proudly admit I am an avid Alabama fan and season ticket holder. I also have the utmost respect for Coach Saban and his leadership philosophies. I even have a football Coach Saban autographed for me one evening in his living room. Coach Saban often talks about “The Process,” or the stages you have to go through to be successful. He is quoted as saying, “People who don’t understand ‘The Process’ of hard work are like little kids in the back seat asking, ‘Are we there yet?’ You get where you are going one mile-marker at a time.” I think this quote sums it up per-fectly, “You can’t get from A to Z by passing up B.”

In our office when we build beauti-ful smiles and give patients the “smile of their dreams,” we also go through “The Pro-cess.” We strive to give each of our cosmetic patients a smile to which we are proudly willing to sign our name. Our goal is not to meet our patients’ expectations but to exceed them!

Our cosmetic pa-tients don’t just walk in one day and tell us they want a smile makeover, and we get started the next day. We invite prospective smile makeover patients to visit our office for a Free Smile Evaluation. We are so confident in our ability to give patients the smile of their dreams that we encourage patients to visit other dental offices before they select us to do their work. At Signature Smile we pay atten-tion to every detail in the development of the perfect smile to fit each patient individually.

At the Smile Evaluation Appointment we look at the color, shape, length, proportion, symmetry, and alignment of the teeth. Today everyone wants “white teeth,” and I mean “WHITE!” But they also want a natural look. We can pro-vide both! Did you know that the shape of a person’s teeth should match the shape of their face? The length of the teeth

can make a smile look “goofy” if too long and “gummy” if too short. Teeth should also appear in “Golden Proportions.” This is a height to width ratio that is naturally very pleasing to the eye. Ideally, teeth should be perfectly symmetrical on both the right and left side. And, of course, we want to make the alignment be as close to perfect as possible. In many cases this eliminates the need to wear braces for two years.

A beautiful smile is not just about the “White” (teeth), it is also about the Pink (gums). A beautiful smile can be ruined

if the gums are puffy, red, infected, or too long. If a patient has a “gummy smile,” we can do a “gum lift” with the laser in just a matter of minutes to dramatically improve the looks of a smile.

We also look at the relationship of the lips to the teeth. Do the lips completely cover the teeth when the lip is relaxed? If so we can lengthen the teeth to allow just a little edge of tooth to show. We also look at the Vertical Dimension. Vertical Dimension is the distance from a point on the nose to a point on the chin. If those points are too close together the lips pooch out too much and allow the face to collapse, thus making the person look much older. By opening up or increasing the Vertical Dimension we can in essence do a “mini facelift.” And, lastly, we look at the width of the Buccal Corridor. The Buccal Corridor refers to the width across the arch from the bicuspids on one side to the bicuspids on the other. In other words, a wide Buccal Corridor can give the patient a wide beautiful smile, which we refer to as the “Julia Roberts Smile.”

Signature Smile provides a Free Smile Evaluation Guide for our patients to allow them to go home and evaluate their own smile by standing in front of their bathroom mirror.

The second step in “The Process” is to make lots of pho-tos of the patient, giving us a close-up and full face view of their smile. We send these photos to daVinci Dental Studio, our cosmetic dental lab in Hollywood. DaVinci does the dental work you see on TV shows such as “Extreme Make-overs,” “The Swan,” and “The Doctors.” Angie, the graphic artist at daVinci, images the photos of our patients to show them exactly how they are going to look when we complete “The Process.” We also make models of their teeth and send those to Craig, the master lab technician at daVinci, who

The process... an Extreme Smile Makeover

By Dr. L. Don Wilson Signature Smile

12 Healthy Horizons

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provides the patient with a 3-D wax-up of exactly what their teeth will look like after we finish. And all of this occurs before we even start the work. Now our patient and my team know exactly what we are going to do to give this person “the smile of their dreams.”

The third step in “The Process” is to actually prepare the teeth for the veneers or crowns as we planned, make an impression, and then construct a beautiful temporary for our patient to wear while their permanent crowns or veneers are being made at daVinci Dental Studio. Our temporaries are prepared according to the daVinci wax-up. Thus, they look like the finished crowns. Some dental offices boast about the fact they can prepare crowns in the office on the same day and that the patient does not have to wear a temporary. This is true. However, you cannot construct a crown in the office on the same day that will even remotely compare to the beauty and quality of the crowns and veneers carefully

constructed at daVinci by their master ceramists.

Our crowns and veneers are designed to last the patient for many years, so wearing beautiful temporar-ies for two to three weeks is not a big deal. Some patients are concerned that their teeth will have to be ground down to little nubs in order to do crowns or veneers. We only have to remove about 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm of tooth structure to do a veneer, and in some cases we do not have to remove any tooth structure at all.

The fourth step in “The Process” is to remove the temporary and cement the permanent crowns or veneers. We painstakingly bond our crowns or ve-neers in place with the best material on the market. The cement comes in various colors to influence the final internal shade of the crowns or veneers. This, coupled with the many layers of

porcelain and translucency applied at daVinci, gives us the beautiful and natural results our patients want to achieve.

The fifth and final step in “The Process” is to have the patient back in about a week to check their bite, do any final touchups, and make those beautiful “After” photos. As Coach Saban says, “It doesn’t matter what you are ranked until the end.” We believe the cosmetic results we achieve for our patients speak through the beautiful smiles of our patients. We don’t just do dentistry, we change lives!

“What happened yesterday is history. What happens to-morrow is a mystery. What we do today makes a difference – the precious present moment.” – Nick Saban

You can begin your journey today toward a life-changing, beautiful smile. All you have to do is call for a Free Smile Evaluation, because that is the first step in “The Process.”

Dr. L. Don Wilson is a 1978 graduate of the University of Alabama School of Dentistry where he received the Operative Dentistry Award. Dr. Wilson has served as one of the featured speak-ers for laser training at the renowned Las Vegas Institute (LVI) and the acclaimed Nash Insti-tute. Dr. Wilson has authored numerous articles for such noted magazines as Dental Economics, LVI Visions, Ortho Tribune, Dental Products, and The Incisal Edge.

Dr. Kristen R. Bentley attended dental school at University of Alabama Birmingham, and received a 1st place preclinical award in research at UAB’s annual Scholar’s Symposium. After graduation, Dr. Bentley attended a 12-month advanced education in general dentistry residency where she learned advanced dental techniques.

Patient, before and after

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Afib heart condition causes stroke

14 Healthy Horizons

When you have a loved one that wants to be cared for at home, turn to Guardian Angel of West Georgia, Inc. They believe in giving your loved one the personalized care they de-serve, whether it’s in their home or any healthcare facility.

Guardian Angel is the area’s leading and oldest in-home care provider. They offer the highest quality care with compassion for the elderly. Their goal to improve the physical, emotional and spiritual wellness their our clients every single day because every life is important.

They are able to tailor a program specifically for the needs of the client with the many services offered and their experienced in-home care providers. If there is a specific scheduling ques-tion in mind, Guardian Angel will come out and do a free, no obligation assessment to help you decide what works best for you and your loved one.

Guardian Angel can ac-commodate your needs be-cause there are no specific shifts - allowing them to also serve their clients 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, there is a four hour minimum. Their services include: non-medical home and respite care, bathing and personal hygiene, compan-ion services, medication reminders, meal preparation, light house keeping and laundry. Services outside the home may include: assistance to the doctor or other appointments, shop-ping and errands.

Their caregivers can come into your home or can stay at the hospital, assisted living, etc. Sound expensive? You will be pleasantly surprised at how reasonable Guardian Angel’s rates are. If you have a long term care policy, they will gladly file it every month at no extra charge.

Guardian Angel of West Ga., Inc. is not only licensed and insured, but all of their in-home care providers are extremely understanding, skilled and experienced in caring for the el-derly. Their staff is carefully screened with background and reference checks, and have high moral integrity. Our caregivers are required to take annual TB tests as well as participate in monthly in-service to insure their training in the care of the elderly is up to date.

Guardian Angel is locally owned by Lyn Easterwood. After being in the healthcare field for a number of years, Lyn bought the business in 2003 and her ongoing mission is to provide personal care to the elderly and to others in need.

At home with

Guardian AngelBy Lyn Easterwood Owner

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Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is an abnormal rhythm of the heart, which can sometimes lead to an accelerated heart rate. Millions of Americans experience Afib every year and some are at risk for serious medical complications and even stroke, which can lead to brain damage and death. Most people who develop Afib are over the age of 65, and it is more common in men and people with underlying heart disease.

In Afib, the upper chambers of the heart contract erratically sending blood into the ventricles in an uncoordinated way. This can also lead the lower chambers of the heart to contract at a faster rate. Symptoms include palpitations, mild chest discomfort, lightheadedness, shortness of breath or fatigue. Stroke

The most serious complication associated with Afib is stroke.

People with Afib have sluggish and

erratic blood flow that causes blood clots. When a piece of the blood clot breaks off, it can enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain, obstructing blood flow at the end of an artery, which can cause a stroke.Treatments

Lowering Blood Clot Formation: The likelihood of clot formation can be lowered with the use of blood thinners, which traditionally require frequent blood testing and dosing changes. Newer blood thinners don’t require regular tests. Not all patients are candidates for these medications which are also costly, so it’s best to speak with your doctor to find the right medication for you.

Cardioversion: Cardioversion is a treatment that attempts to return the heart to a regular rhythm with an electric current or medication.

Heart Rate Control: Heart rate control can be accomplished with

medications or minimally invasive treatments including radio-frequency ablation with or without pacemaker implantation, cryoablation or other interventions like a maze procedure or convergent care now offered at WellStar Kennestone Hospital, the only hospital that performs this highly successful new procedure in Georgia.

Afib rarely goes away on its own, and is often indicative of underlying heart disease. Thanks to advances in medicine and technology, patients have an increasing array of options for lowering risk for stroke and achieving a more normal heart rhythm. If you have uncontrolled arrhythmia, I encourage you to see your doctor today.

Dr. Peter Jungblut is senior vice president and medical director of WellStar Medical Group. He holds a medical degree from Weill Cornell University Medical College.

Afib heart condition causes stroke

New treatments availableBy Peter Jungblut M.D., MBA

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It has been said there is healing power in foods, but as we all know, it depends on what foods you are putting into your body. Greens (the darker the better) are some of the most nutrient-dense foods you can consume. Long-time favorite spinach which is rich in Vitamins A and C and has some amount of iron, Vitamin B6, magnesium and potassium.

A new popular “health” food is kale. Although harder to find in grocery stores, kale is a perennial and hardy enough for most anyone with space to grow it. Kale has almost a full-day’s supply of Vitamins A and C in one serving, more Vitamin K than you’ll ever need, and a healthy amount of manganese, copper, Vitamin B6 and fiber.

Swiss chard is another up-and-coming health food. With almost a full-day’s supply of Vitamins A and K, plenty of Vita-mins C and E, potassium and iron, it’s easy to see why Swiss chard is appearing in more recipes.

As with all fruits and vegetables, the most nutrition is gained from eating raw. If raw greens make you squeamish, you can steam them for about five minutes with little nutritional loss. If you’re just getting started with the superfoods, try out one of these tasty recipes.

Spinach/Strawberry Salad4 cups torn spinach2 cups sliced strawberries1/2 cup sliced green onions3 tablespoons fresh orange juice2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar1 teaspoon olive oil1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (nuts may be substituted)

Combine first 3 ingredients in a large bowl; toss gently.

Combine juice, vinegar, and oil in a small bowl; stir with a wire whisk until blended. Drizzle over spinach mixture, and toss well. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.

White Bean Soup with Kale and Chorizo2 ounces Spanish chorizo sausage, finely chopped1 cup prechopped onion3 garlic cloves, minced3 cups chicken broth2 (15-ounce) cans organic cannellini beans, rinsed and drained4 cups prechopped kale1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepperCracked black pepper (optional)

Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chorizo to pan; sauté 1 minute. Add onion and garlic to pan; sauté 5 minutes or until tender.

While onions cook, pour broth into a microwave-safe bowl; microwave at HIGH for 3 minutes. Add hot broth and beans

to pan; bring to a boil. Partially mash beans with potato masher. Stir in kale and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; cook over medium heat 6 minutes. Sprinkle with cracked pepper, if desired. cookinglight.com

Lentil and Swiss Chard Soup with Lemon3 tablespoons olive oil1/2 large yellow onion, finely chopped1 clove garlic, mincedPinch of crushed red pepper1/4 cup chopped cilantroKosher salt and freshly ground black pepper1 cup firm dark lentils, such as beluga2 1/2 cups chicken broth or chicken stock

1 small yellow squash, cut into 1/2-inch cubes1/2 bunch Swiss chard (about 3/4 lb.), ribs removed and discarded and leaves coarsely chopped2 tablespoons lemon juice

In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, gar-lic, crushed red pepper and cilantro, along with a large pinch of salt, and cook, stirring, until onions are softened and just barely beginning to brown, about 10 minutes.

Add lentils and broth to pot, plus 2 1/2 cups water. Raise heat to high and bring mixture to a boil. Lower heat and sim-mer until lentils are just tender, about 30 minutes longer.

Add yellow squash and Swiss chard and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened but still bright in color, about 5 minutes. If you would prefer a thinner soup, add more broth or water 1/2 cup at a time. When soup is the consistency you like, stir in lemon juice and season to taste with salt and pepper. Ladle soup into bowls and serve immediately. health.com

recipesgoing green

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Grits & Greens Casserole4 slices bacon, chopped (optional)2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil1 small onion, diced4 cloves garlic, minced2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth, divided1/4 teaspoon salt16 cups chopped collard greens or kale, stems removed (about 1 large bunch, 1 1/2-2 pounds)2 cups water, plus more as needed1 cup grits (not instant)3/4 cup shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, divided1/4 cup prepared salsa1 large egg, lightly beaten

Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat an 8-inch-square baking dish with cooking spray.

Place bacon (if using) in a large Dutch oven. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until crispy, 4 to 6 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Pour off the bacon fat.

Return the pot to medium-low heat; add oil, onion and garlic and cook, stirring often, until fragrant and starting to brown in spots, 2 to 8 minutes (cooking time will be quicker if you started with bacon). Add 1 cup broth and salt; bring to a boil over high heat. Add collards (or kale); stir until wilted down to about one-third the volume and bright green, 1 to 2 minutes. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stir-ring occasionally, until tender, 18 to 20 minutes. Adjust heat during cooking to maintain a simmer, and add water, 1/4

cup at a time, if the pan seems dry.Meanwhile, bring 2 cups water and the re-

maining 1 cup broth to a boil in a large saucepan. Pour in grits in a steady stream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer, whisking constantly. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, whisking often, until thick, about 5 minutes. Com-bine 1/2 cup cheese, salsa and egg in a small bowl. Remove the grits from the heat and quickly stir in the cheese mixture until combined.

Working quickly, spread about half the grits in the pre-pared baking dish. Top with greens, spreading evenly. Spread the remaining grits over the greens. Sprinkle with the remain-ing 1/4 cup cheese and the reserved bacon (if using).

Bake the casserole until hot and bubbling, about 20 min-utes. Let stand for about 10 minutes before serving. eatingwell.com

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wellnessAmong the many health-related issues

that can affect older Americans, there are several senior issues, including ac-cidents, that can be prevented.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), millions of adults over 65 fall each year. Some of the injuries may be minor, but many are more seri-ous, including hip fractures and head traumas, which can increase the risk of an early death.

What’s worse, if a head injury is sustained during a fall, there is a 50 percent greater chance of a second fall which could be fatal, according to the CDC.

Likely fractures from falling include the spine, hip, forearm, leg, ankle, pelvis, upper arm and hand. Twenty to 30 percent of people who fall will end up with moderate to severe injuries which not only increases the chance of another fall, but may limit the senior’s mobility and independence.

Below are tips from the CDC and National Institute of Health (NIH) to help prevent falls:s Exercise regularly. Exercises should

focus on increasing leg strength and improv-ing balance. Gradu-ally build your rou-tine so the exercises become more challenging. CDC recom-mends Tai

Chi.s Have the doctor and/or pharmacist

review all medications and be sure to include over-the-counter medicines as well. There are some medications, or a combination, that may cause dizziness or drowsiness.s All seniors should have their eyes

checked at least once a year and keep their glasses updated to maximize vi-sion. Consider a single vision pair for activities such as walking outside.s Make homes safer by adding grab

bars as necessary in the bathroom, add-ing railings on both sides of stairways and improving lighting.

s Remove anything that could cause tripping or slipping while walking.

Tripping on clutter, small furniture, pet bowls,

electrical or phone cords, or other things can cause you to fall. Remove items from stairs, hallways and pathways.s Arrange fur-

niture so there is

plenty of room to walk freely.s Be sure that carpets are secured

to the floor and stairs. Remove throw rugs, use non-slip rugs or attach rugs to the floor with double-sided tape.s Put non-slip strips on floors and

steps. Put non-slip strips or a rub-ber mat on the bottom of the tub or shower.s No matter the location, try to avoid

wet floors. At home, clean up spills right away and use only non-skid wax.s Check the lighting in each room, at

entrances and on outdoor walkways. Be sure there is good lighting on stairways. If necessary, add switches at both the

top and bottom of stairs.s Place a lamp within easy reach of

the bed as well as in any dark area such as a hallway. Use night lights where nec-essary. Doing a walkthrough at night is probably the best way to decide where more light is needed. s Rearrange often-used items to make

them more accessible. Food, dishes, clothing and other everyday items should be within easy reach.

preventing

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By Gwen Bishop Editor

To help maintain strength and bone density to help prevent hip fractures, the CDC recommends:s Getting enough calcium and vitamin D, whether

from food and/or supplements.s Doing weight bearing exercises, focusing on the

upper legs.s Getting screened for osteoporosis and/or get

treatment.

With six out of every 10 falls occurring at home, taking these few simple steps can help reduce the risk of you or a loved one being injured in an uninten-tional accident. A quick home safety assessment can determine what changes need to be made. Moving furniture, removing rugs and changing locations of daily items can be done simply and at no cost. Add-ing rails to bathrooms and stairways is a fairly DIY project that is also inexpensive.

For more information on prevention by exercise and vitamins, contact your primary care doctor or orthopedic surgeon.

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Carpal tunnel syndrome describes the symptoms which arise from compression of one of the major nerves of the arm, called the median nerve, as it passes through the wrist. The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome most commonly involve numbness and tingling of the thumb, in-dex and middle fingers. These symptoms

usually begin at night. They can also arise from holding your hand in one position for a long time. As time passes and the syndrome becomes more advanced, it can begin to affect your muscles as well as sensations. You may begin to feel weakness or clumsiness in your hands, particularly when manipulating small objects such as buttons or coins. You may notice your handwriting has changed. When this weakness becomes more pronounced, you may notice that your hands look different as the muscles in your palm shrink away.

The carpal tunnel is a median nerve that carries sensation information from your thumb, index and middle fingers up to your brain. It also carries signals from your brain to some of the muscles in the hand. These are important muscles which allow your thumb and fingers to move in a way to allow for pinching, grasping and manipulation of small objects. The medi-an nerve travels from your forearm into your hand through a structure called the carpal tunnel. Several tendons which work to bend your fingers and thumb also travel through this tunnel. The carpal tunnel itself is in the wrist and is formed by bone on three sides with the fourth made by a tough band of tissue called the transverse carpal ligament. You can think of it like a bridge over a canyon or ravine.

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs be-cause of pressure on the median nerve. This can happen for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is positioning during sleep. Most people sleep with their hands in fists and their wrists bent. This puts pressure on the median nerve which causes it to become irritated. This mani-fests itself as numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers which

wakes you up at night. Swelling around the tendons in the carpal tunnel can also cause the nerve to become compressed. Additionally, the ligament itself can be-come enlarged and cause compression of the nerve.

There have been studies trying to es-tablish a connection between repetitive

movements, especially typing, and carpal tunnel syndrome. At the very worst, there is no correlation. In fact, some data does seem to point that lots of typing may de-crease your risk of getting carpal tunnel syndrome. Positioning can cause or wors-en carpal tunnel syndrome. You should evaluate your own work space and see if a different position or style of keyboard or mouse may help your symptoms.

Your doctor will likely be able to make a diagnosis from your symptoms and from some special examination tests. You will likely be asked to get a special nerve test called an EMG/NCV to confirm the di-agnosis.

If you think you have symptoms of car-pal tunnel syndrome, you should be eval-uated by a health care professional. There is such a thing as waiting too long or being too late. I see many patients who have done just that and have permanent, or irreversible, nerve damage.

There are a variety of treatment options for carpal tunnel syn-drome depending on the severity of your symptoms. Treatment ranges from wrist braces while you sleep, to steroid injections, to surgery. Your doctor will best be able to help you decide whether you need treatment and which would be best suited for you.

There are multiple ways to perform what is called a carpal tunnel release. The traditional method involves an incision in the palm. This method is called an “open carpal tunnel release.” There is a second method using a camera and a smaller incision at the wrist called an “endoscopic carpal tunnel release.” Both methods will provide the same

long term results of relief, and both are equally safe. I prefer the endoscopic meth-od because of less pain in the short term. You can discuss these options with your doctor.

Approaches to recovery vary. Some surgeons will keep your wrist immobilized for some time following the surgery. I

prefer a smaller dressing and allow it to be removed after three days. After that point, I allow my patients to try to use their hand normally. They may shower and wash their hands. I ask them to avoid heavy activi-ty until they have their stitches removed at two weeks. It may take six weeks until you feel comfortable with heavier activity.

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&Allergies Asthma

It is difficult to estimate the prevalence of allergies since there are so many different types and symptoms: hay fever, food allergies, asthma, skin allergies, drug allergies, etc. But what is clear is that allergies DO impact individuals and their families, affecting schooling, work, and so much more. Identifying allergens is the first step in designing a program of health with allergies/asthma. AND, the prevalence of allergies among children between the ages of oen and five years is higher for those living in the south, including in Georgia.

Did you know that allergy shots help people of all ages? Allergy shots stimulate the immune system to build up a tolerance to the allergens over

time.Did you know that you do

not become immune to allergy medications and need to switch them back and forth? Everyone goes through periods when their allergy symptoms worsen and are just “bigger” than what the allergy medicines can treat.

Did you know that a cough could be a sign of asthma? While most people think that asthma means you wheeze, not everyone with asthma

wheezes. In fact, coughing with exercise or playing or at night may be a sign of asthma.

At Peachtree Allergy and Asthma Clinic, our providers are dedicated to help uncover the underlying allergies and will work to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. We treat hay fever, asthma, skin conditions including eczema and hives, sinus problems, insect allergies, food allergies and recurrent infections.

Who should see an allergist?s Does sneezing or runny nose or drainage interrupt daily activities?s Do the symptoms often lead to sinus or ear infections?s Do you cough or wheeze or have a hard time breathing with exercise or playing?s Are your nasal or chest symptoms worse during pollen seasons?

If you answered yes to any of the questions, then allergies or asthma may be affecting you or your child’s quality of life.

By Christina L. Stein APRN, BC, FNP

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Taking care of CarrolltonFor over 60 years our firm has heard from people suffering

from on-the-job injuries, accidents and vehicle wrecks and dis-abilities, military and otherwise. Most are experiencing problems recovering a fair amount of compensation from uncooperative insurance companies or employers. Others are struggling through the maze of applying for veterans benefits through the Depart-ment of Veterans Affairs or disability benefits through Social Security. Their financial well being as well as their health has been stretched - sometimes to the limit.

Most of these victims are getting pressure from profit-motivated insurance companies and employers to settle for a small portion of the compensation they truly deserve as a result of their injury. These companies are interested in paying as little as they can rather than an amount that is truly fair.

Here are two things you can do to avoid becoming a financial victim.

Be informed. Learn your rights.First, understand that an insurance company or employer is

not on your side when it comes to making up financially for your loss. The business goal of most companies is to make a profit for their owners or shareholders. It is in their best interest to take in as much money as they can, and pay out the least amount possible. The less they pay out, the greater amount of profit goes to their bottom line. And no matter how nice they seem, their business motive is still the same: to make a profit. For example:

You may be told that you don’t have a claim. Insurance compa-nies and employers do not want you to pursue a claim because it usually costs them money.

You may be told that you have to settle your case. This is not true! No one can force you to settle your case.

If you were hurt at work, you have a right to a medical second opinion, but insurers and employers won’t always make you aware of this right. An experienced attorney can help you make the most of this option by advising you whether it is an appropri-ate time for a second opinion, and if so, locating a doctor who is able to address the particular issues in your case.

If you are a veteran suffering from a health condition or dis-ability, did you know that the VA is actually required to presume that many illnesses, diseases and conditions were caused by time in service in Vietnam, Iraq or Afghanistan? This requirement, unfortunately, doesn’t mean smooth sailing for many veterans who still find themselves stranded in a lengthy bureaucratic maze. These cases, especially when poor health is connected with military service performed decades ago, can be extraordinarily frustrating and confusing to veterans making claims for benefits.

If you are apply for benefits through the VA or Social Security

and receive a decision denying your benefits or awarding less benefits than you requested, you can appeal that decision. Our law firm handles appeals for veterans and Social Security disabil-ity benefits.

(Note: for more information, visit www.PerkinsLawTalk.com and read “14 Things Your Insurance Company Doesn’t Want You to Know,” and “15 Things You Should Know About Your Personal Injury Case.”)

Getting expert advice quickly - it’s usually free.One more thing you will often hear is that you should not hire

an attorney because it is expensive. The truth is that most legal firms offer free initial consultations and many work on a contin-gency fee agreement which means that you only pay your attorney if they get something for you.

When you select an attorney - like when you select a doctor - choose a specialist. It’s important to choose an attorney who has experience with cases similar to yours. Most accident victims and the disabled have cases that fall under the legal specialities of per-sonal injury, workers’ compensation, veterans’ benefits or Social Security disability. Be sure to act quickly when seeking out advice because there are often time limits for filing claims that can affect your ability to be compensated for your injuries.

Too many injury victims, veterans and other people suffering with disabilities have become financial victims. Don’t let it hap-pen to you and your family.

Attorneys Cliff Perkins, Ann-Margaret Perkins, Jason Perkins and Travis Studdard specialize in legal services for the injured and disabled. They may be reached at Perkins Law Firm in Carrollton, GA 678.321.6956 or online at

www.perkinslawtalk.com

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Haney’s Drug Corner has been taking care of Carrollton’s prescription needs since 1975. In 2007, current owners Tim and Susan Oliver purchased the store from Tommy and Linda Haney. Their goal has been to continue to provide customers with the fast and friendly service that has made them so popular with their customers. Haney’s Drug Corner offers free city-wide delivery and accepts most insurance as well as Medicaid.

Haney’s is very involved in the Carrollton commu-nity. They offer support to many local charities and schools. Tim and Susan feel that it is very important to give back to the community. Our pharmacists, Tim, Christy, and Jennifer are happy to answer any questions you may have about your medical care and treatment. Once you see their great customer service, you will be a customer for life!

Visit Haney’s Drug Corner on the corner of Dixie Street and Ambulance Drive today. Their staff will be happy to take care of your prescription needs.

While you’re there, be sure to shop in the extensive gift selection including Clay Chick Ceramics, Harvest

Home Candles, Tervis Tumblers, collegiate and high school jewelry and other collectibles, Nora Fleming and Sweaty Bands. For high quality skin care, Haney’s carries Archipelago Bo-taniccals and Lindi skin care products.

g T

aking care of Carrollton

Haney’s Drug Corner

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family

Quality family time is essential and what better way to have great family togetherness than to go on an ADVENTURE!

Georgia has the largest adventure park in the world along with a very cool nature conservancy. Only 45 minutes from Atlanta’s Hartsfield Airport, Historic Banning Mills and the Screaming Eagle Zip Line Canopy tours is an official Adventure Park and Nature Conservancy with two Guinness World Records.

Historic Banning Mills is located 12 miles from Carrollton, Ga. in one of the world’s most diverse eco systems, known as “The Snake Creek Gorge.”

Once known as the Tallulah Gorge of West

Georgia, the history and beauty are unparalleled and a guest can visit the historic interpretive center on site to learn more about the history before beginning any of the adventures.

Things to Do:n The largest, continuous zip line canopy tour

in the world is a must do. With a Guinness World Record, the tour has six levels of progression so one can start at Level 1 (lower and slower) and progress to the extreme if they wish. The course is over 10 miles long, currently has over 100 zip lines, 70 sky bridges and five really, really big towers. The high speed zip lines (where one can reach speeds of 60

walk on the

side

The Adventure Park is currently working with several Alabama state parks and

will begin construction of zip lines across Alabama in the near future.

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mph) will have your eyes watering and etch a permanent grin on your face. The newest line is the Flight of the Falcon at 3400 feet long. Experience a true feeling of flying! n A second Guinness World Record

was set on Dec. 10, 2011 for the tallest, free standing climbing/rappel wall in the world. At 14 stories, one truly feels on top of the world after the climb. At the top, the panoramic views of the gorge makes the climb worth it all.n 100 Feet Power Free Fall: Not

a bungee jump at all! Climb the Adventure Tower, get hooked in by a very accommodating guide and then step off and fall 100 feet to the ground below and land safely and firmly on your feet. An amazing first step!

By Donna Holder Historic Banning Mills

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n Two Aerial Adventure Parks: The Terminator and Crazy Squirrel Village will get your heart racing as you complete 20 to 40 challenge elements set 10 to 65 feet in the air. The Crazy Squirrel Village, on the level 1, can accommodate ages four years old and up.n Team Building and GPS treks.n Kayaking, horseback riding and hiking.n Falconry programs and live birds of prey

shows.n Country Inn and Day Spa with onsite

chef, meeting rooms and lodging.

As with any type of adventure programs, there are age, weight and physical ability restrictions in place. Reservations are required.

You can visit the website for all details at: www.historicbanningmills.com, email: [email protected], or call 770.834.9149 to speak with a staff member.

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Sports injuries overuseFor a child, there’s nothing like the lessons learned from

being on the field and having an opportunity to make a game winning run or the sportsmanship gained from playing together as a team and coming up short with a loss. Child-hood sports are part of our lives. They bring joy to children and their families. Not only that, being involved in athletics can be beneficial to a child’s development. But as any parent knows, there is always the risk of injury.

By knowing the causes of sports injuries, and how to prevent them, you can make involvement in sports a more positive experience.

Drew Ferguson, Director of UAB Sports Medicine at Children’s of Alabama, points out that age can be a factor in many injuries.

“The younger kids don’t have the body control, the neck coordination to play a lot of these sports,” he said. “It’s im-portant to try to teach the basics, the fundamentals, because developing bodies and awkwardness can lead to injuries that you don’t see in older more developed children.” On the other hand, Ferguson points out, as a child grows and develops, injuries can take place due to the force of physical contact between bigger, stronger kids.

There are things you can do to help prevent your kids from being injured.

Preventing Sports Injuries

Use of Proper EquipmentChildren should always use the proper equipment and ap-

propriate safety gear for each sport. That gear should always be the correct size and fit well.

Ask your child’s coach about the appropriate helmets, shoes, mouth guards, athletic cups and padding. Shatterproof goggles should be considered as well.

Protective equipment should be approved by the organiza-tions that govern each of the sports. Protective gear should be properly maintained to ensure effectiveness.

Maintenance and Appropriateness of Playing Surfaces

Coaches and parents should ensure that playing fields are in good condition. Holes and ruts could cause children to fall and get hurt. For sports like running and basketball, surfaces should be more forgiving like a track and wooden courts over concrete surfaces.

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&Sports injuries overuse

For more information on this or other health and safety topics, visit www.childrensal.org.

Adequate Adult Supervision and Commitment to Safety

Any team sport or activity that kids par-ticipate in should be supervised by qualified adults. The team coach should have training in first aid and CPR, and the coach’s philosophy should promote players’ well-being, not a “win at all costs” approach. Additionally, make sure your kids are matched for sports according to their skill level, size, and physical and emo-tional maturity.

Proper PreparationA child should always be taught how to

play the sport before going out on the field. The child should be adequately prepared with warm-ups and training sessions before practices and games. In addition, kids should drink plenty of fluids and be allowed to rest during practices and games.

Types of Injuries

Sports injuries are usually divided into three categories. Acute injuries, overuse injuries and reinjury.

AcuteAcute injuries occur suddenly and are usu-

ally the result of some trauma. They could range from sprains or strains to the more seri-ous concussions.

OveruseAnother common source of injury is

overuse. This is seen in sports with the same, repetitive motions. One example is “Little League Elbow,” which is pain and tenderness in the elbow due to repetitive throwing.

ReinjuryReinjury often happens when a player returns

to the game before he or she is properly healed from a previous injury. A player should wait for their doctor’s approval before re-entering the sport, and even still, should start back gradually to prevent getting hurt again.

What to Do

If your child is injured, they should stop play-ing immediately. Ferguson said whether or not to call the doctor may depend on how much pain they are feeling.

“On a pain scale from one to 10, if they are below a five you may want to wait,” he said, “but if it gets more painful over time you may want to have them seen for treatment.”

You may also consider taking them to a doctor if the area is swollen, they are limping or have limited range of motion, or if the pain continues for more than a week.

Once the child has been treated by a doctor, remember to follow the doctor’s orders! Avoid activity and wait on the doctor’s approval before playing again to avoid reinjury.

By keeping these tips in mind children and their families can do their part to avoid injury and enjoy many years of athletics.

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resourcesemergencyEMERGENCY DIAL 911

AMBULANCE SERVICES ..................Ambucare770-537-1946

Ambulance Bremen, Buchanan, Tallapoosa770-537-9910

Critical Care Medflight770-513-9148

FIRE ...................................Non-emergency770-537-3331 Bremen

770-646-0077 Buchanan & Haralson counties

770-832-3456 Heard County

Forest Fire770-646-5501 Buchanan & Haralson counties

770-836-6715 Carroll County

706-675-3568 Heard County

HOSPITALS .............................Bremen Health & Wellness Center770-537-5555

Floyd Medical Center706-509-5000

Higgins General Hospital770-824-2000 Bremen770-836-9687 Carrollton770-949-7500 Villa Rica

Piedmont Newnan Hospital770-253-1912

WellStar Douglas Hospital770-949-1500

LAW ENFORCEMENT .....................Non-emergency770-537-4441 Bremen

770-646-5246 Buchanan

770-834-4451 Carrollton

770-574-7211 Tallapoosa

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives1-800-800-3855

Federal Bureau of Investigation404-679-9000

Georgia Bureau of Investigation404-244-2600

Georgia State Patrol770-459-3661 Carroll County

770-749-2200 Haralson & Polk counties

770-254-7200 Heard County

OTHER EMERGENCY NUMBERS...........Committee for Missing Children1-800-525-8204 (24 HR)

EMA Local770-830-5882 Carroll County

EMA State1-800-879-4362

TTY 1-800-462-7585

Georgia Crime Victim Assistance Helpline1-800-338-6745

Georgia Crisis & Access Line1-800-715-4225

Georgia Drug Abuse Helpline1-800-338-6745

Georgia Problem Gambling Helpline1-800-699-7117

Mental Health770-537-2367

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)1-800-799-4TTY (1-800-799-4889)

Partnership Agency Against Domestic Violence Hotline1-800-334-2836

Poison Control Center1-800-222-1222

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resourcesALLERGY CLINICS .......................Atlanta Allergy & Asthma Clinic PC770-942-7696

Buchanan, Ariana MD770-832-1984

Center for Allergy and Asthma770-836-7987 Carrollton

770-459-0620 Villa Rica

770-537-2323 Bremen

770-683-4050 Newnan

Harbin Clinic706-295-5331

Peachtree Allergy & Asthma Clinic770-832-1984

ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES .............Ashbrook Village770-459-8061

Autumn Square770-834-1737

Brookdale Senior Living678-796-0974

Carrollton Club Congregate Community770-830-6610

Carrollton Manor770-834-1737

Colonial Guest House Inc.706-675-6372

Cottage Landing770-830-8857

Stewart House Retirement Living, Inc. 770-838-0303

The Oaks of Carrollton Assisted Living770-834-2242

Wesley Woods Newnan

770-683-6833

BEDDING & ACCESSORIES ...............Sit ‘n’ Sleep770-834-1122

CANCER CARE CENTERS .................Cancer Treatment Centers of America770-400-6000

Roy Richards, Sr. Cancer Center770-836-9824

Tanner Radiation Oncology770-836-9824

CARDIOLOGY ............................WellStar Douglas Hospital678-715-5080

CHIROPRACTORS ........................Dr. Peter Lazarnick770-853-7940

Temple Chiropractic770-562-8590

Villa Rica Chiropractic Center770-459-8439

West Georgia Spine Center770-834-6669

DENTAL CENTERS .......................Bremen Dental Depot770-537-4439

Signature Smile256.SMILE97

DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING ...................Comprehensive Breast Care Center770-812-5886

Higgins General Hospital770-824-2000

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Tanner Medical Center770-836-9660 Carrollton

770-456-3174 Villa Rica

WellStar Douglas Imaging Center770-920-6390678-838-2592 Professional Parkway

EAR, NOSE & THROAT ....................Bi-County Ear, Nose,& Throat770-949-4200770-819-1435

Carrollton Ear, Nose & Throat770-832-1488

Harbin Clinic706-295-5331

Villa Rica Ear, Nose & Throat770-459-0408

WellStar Medical Group, ENT770-949-4200

ELDER LAW .............................Perkins Law Firm770-214-8885

GENERAL/FAMILY PHYSICIANS ...........

Carrollton Family Healthcare770-832-9593

Minor Emergency Family Medicine770-456-0911

New Georgia Family Healthcare770-456-3333

Primary Care of Bremen770-537-6500

Tallapoosa Family Healthcare770-824-2800

Tanner Family Healthcare of Franklin706-675-6949

Tanner Immediate Care770-949-7500

Tanner Primary Care770-812-5831 Carrollton

256-357-2188 Wedowee

770-456-3866 West Paulding

Villa Rica Family Medicine770-456-3790

WellStar Medical Group770-947-3000

West Carroll Family Healthcare770-258-5424

West Georgia Family Medicine770-459-4411

Woodland Family Healthcare256-449-2001

GASTROENTEROLOGY ....................Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates1.866.GO.TO.AGA

Gastroenterology Associates770-456-3786

Internal Medicine of Carrollton770-812-5222

GYNOCOLOGY ...........................

HEARING CENTERS ......................Beltone of West Georgia 770-557-2360

HEART CENTERS .........................Tanner Heart & Vascular Specialists770-836-9326

Tanner Heart & Vascular Center770-836-9666

Tanner Vascular Surgery770-812-5902

WellStar Medical Group678-715-5080

HOME HEALTH SERVICES .................Gentiva Health Services678-840-4475

Guardian Angel of West GA, Inc. 770-836-0766

Tanner Home Health770-834-5438

HOSPICE ...............................Altus Healthcare & Hospice770-456-4643

Evercare Hospice & Palliative Care770-417-2018

Tanner Hospice Care770-214-2355

INDEPENDENT LIVING ....................Cottage Landing770-830-8857

INTERNAL MEDICINE .....................Internal Medicine of Carrollton770-812-5222

Mirror Lake Internal Medicine770-456-3839

Tanner Primary Care of Carrollton770-812-5831

WellStar Medical Group770-949-9590

West Georgia Internal Medicine770-834-6208

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MASSAGE THERAPY .....................

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES ........Apothecary Shoppe Pharmacy770-459-9499

Bowden Homecare DME Inc.770-258-5055

Garrett Drug Co.770-537-2364

Jim Cash Pharmacy770-646-3570

Lovvorn Drugs770-537-8889

Philps Lifeline866-714-5295

Quality Lifestyles Marketing, Inc. 770-834-2013

NURSING HOMES .......................Carrollton Manor Inc.770-834-1737

Countryside Health Center770-646-3861

Heritage Healthcare of Franklin706-675-6674

Pine Knoll Nursing & Rehab Center770-832-8243

The Oaks of Carrollton770-834-3501

ORTHOPEDICS ..........................Orthopaedic Clinic770-537-0611 Bremen

770-834-0873 Carrollton

770-459-0408 Villa Rica

Pinnacle Ortho & Sports Medicine770-456-1659

Tanner Ortho and Spine Center770-836-9666

PEDIATRICS ............................. Children’s Hospital of Alabama205-638-9100

PHARMACIES ...........................Carrollton Pharmacy770-834-7733Clayton Pharmacy770-537-2321

Garrett Drug Company770-537-2364

Jim Cash Pharmacy770-646-3570

Lovvorn Drugs770-537-8889

Tallapoosa Drug Company Inc.770-574-2339

Turner Pharmacy770-832-7076

PRIMARY CARE CENTERS ................

REHABILITATION CENTERS ...............A Driving Advantage770-830-0045

John and Barbara Tanner Cardiac Rehabilitation Center770-838-8289

Southern Therapy Services, Inc.770-832-2484

Tanner Rehabilitation Services770-836-9655 Carrollton

770-824-2291 Higgins

770-456-3162 Villa Rica

SENIOR SERVICES .......................Amberley Senior Community 770-505-0509

Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Georgia706-802-5506

Comfort Keepers678-715-8624

Council on Aging770-489-3100

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fun & gamesGreenbrooke Senior Community678-567-0007

SURGERY ...............................Carrollton Surgical Group770-537-4702 Bremen

770-834-3336 Carrollton

770-456-3646 Villa Rica

Higgins General Hospital Outpatient Surgical Services Bremen

770-824-2268

Tanner Medical Center, Short Stay770-836-9500 Carrollton

Tanner Medical Center770-456-3170 Villa Rica

WellStar Medical GroupDouglas Surgical Associates770-942-4822

West Georgia Laser Center770-834-2470

TRANSPORTATION .......................Recommended Dealer Services770-819-2600

Southeast Shuttle770-832-7786

URGENT CARE CENTERS ..................

Tanner Urgent Care770-836-9445 Bremen

Tanner Immediate Care770-836-9445 Carrollton

770-836-9445 Villa Rica

WHEEL CHAIRS & LIFTS ..................Apothecary Shoppe Pharmacy770-459-9499

B & W Handicap Equipment Inc.770-460-1909

Plaza Homecare770-459-2999

WOUND CARE CENTERS ..................Advanced Wound Care Center770-812-5605

Tanner Medical Center770-214-CARE (2273)

Wellstar Health System770-956-STAR (7827)

References: Retrieved March 2015: www.yellowpages.comRetrieved January 2014: Chamber of Commerce Websites: Carroll County, Cobb County, Douglas County, Paulding County and Haralson County. Retrieved February 2014: The Real Yellow Pages, West Georgia, Tanner Health System and WellStar Medical Group. Retrieved February 2013: The Real Yellow Pages, West Georgia, June 2012-2013, www.411.com and www.yellowbook.com. Retrieved December 2011: The Yellow Pages, West Georgia. Retrieved November 11, 2009 from: www.Yellowbook.com. Retrieved October 10, 2008: Area Agency on Aging. http://www.adap.net/resource/agencies.htm. Retrieved October 10, 2008 from: The Real Yellow Pages, West Georgia, GA June 2008-2009. Metro Directories, Austell-Douglasville-Powder Springs 2007-2008. Disclaimer: Healthy Horizons provides this resource directory free of charge. Healthy Horizons strives to assure that the information contained in this directory is accurate and up to date. However, the user is advised that Healthy Horizons does not endorse the organizations listed in this directory, nor does exclusion in this directory signify disapproval. The consumer is strongly encouraged to seek information from the organization and assess if this organization meets your particular needs.

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