Lexington Medical Center Heart Health Insert
Lexington Medical Center Heart Health Insert
Lexington Medical Center Heart Health Insert
Lexington Medical Centers cardiac surgery team during open heart surgery.
9,000
people die from heart disease
I enjoyed seeing a group of professionals come together to work toward a common goal, Dr. Travis said. And Im so proud of how well they have done.
Many of Lexington Medical Centers heart surgery patients have also participated in cardiac rehabilitation. Patients work with staff members to develop a personalized wellness plan that helps them rebuild strength, endurance, emotional well-being and confidence. Cardiac rehab changes lives and saves lives, said John Leech, Cardiac Rehabilitation manager at Lexington Medical Center. And now, Lexington
2,000
50,000 14,000
Life expectancy in the United States would rise
Medical Center has added a second heart surgeon. Dr. Steven Marra comes to Lexington Cardiovascular Surgery after five years as medical director of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Rockingham Memorial Hospital in Harrisonburg, VA. In addition, Lexington Medical Center will focus on growing the programs technology and services. The hospital is now expanding electrophysiology, a cardiology specialty that focuses on the treatment of abnormal heart rhythms. That includes catheter ablations for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. And, in the future, the hospital will
provide minimally invasive aortic valve replacement in the future. We want to make sure were providing the best care with the latest techniques and state-ofthe-art equipment, said Lang Spotts, assistant vice president for Cardiovascular Administration at Lexington Medical Center. That work extends into the community, with a robust heart education program and a strong resource for people who want to be involved in heart health. The goal is to deliver comprehensive cardiovascular care focused on unparalleled efficiency and excellent outcomes.
7 Years
Heart Health
O P E N H E A R T S U R G E R Y PAT I E N T S T O R I E S
I told Ann it was like Whoosh. I knew everything was fine. I knew everything was going to be okay, he said.
Mr. Corley underwent open heart surgery on a Monday. One week after his surgery, he went home. Im doing better every day. He says the 36 sessions of cardiac rehabilitation he did at Lexington Medical Center helped get him back to the things he loves doing, like tinkering in his wood shop and traveling. We like to get out and go. Mrs. Corley shakes her head in agreement, but shes quick to add that there is one place she will no longer allow her husband to go without her. I try to go to every doctor appointment now. Even if he has a hangnail, she says with a grin.
Walter Corley with wife Ann and granddaughter Taylor I said, Ive got something I need to tell you. I need to have open heart surgery. I said, what! She was shocked. That didnt go over well, Mr. Corley says with a chuckle. That didnt go over well at all. Mr. Corley says he knew right away that he wanted the surgery done at Lexington Medical Center. I wanted my wife to be able to come over and feel comfortable. We live 15 minutes away. It was how he discovered the man who would perform his surgery that is rather unconventional. Mr. Corley says he clicked on the TV one night and there he was: cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Travis on a television commercial for Lexington Medical Center. I told my wife, That is who I want to do my surgery. I dont know why. Mr. Corleys operation was scheduled just days after his first meeting with Dr. Travis. The Corleys were understandably fearful
Susan Hurt, 61
Triple Coronary Artery Bypass and Aorta Repair on June 29, 2012
If you look up Southern belle in the dictionary, you might find a picture of Susan Hurt. A perfect hostess, shes quick to offer you a cold drink; and more than once in your conversation, shell call you or someone else honey. Hurt cleans houses and offices for a living. She first recognized she had a problem when after work she was completely wiped out. Her symptoms didnt stop there. I felt a heavy weight in my chest. Every symptom you can have for having a heart attack and heart problems, I had it, Hurt says, shaking her head. She went to see her cardiologist and underwent a battery of tests that often indicate whether someone has heart problems. I passed them with flying colors, Hurt says, but she was not convinced that she was out of
the woods. I knew I couldnt breathe. And she knew heart disease runs in her family. Hurt was advised to undergo a heart catheterization. I expected to come out and them say there is nothing wrong, or maybe another problem, but instead doctors found that she had three blockages in her arteries. Hurt says her doctor called Cardiovascular Surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Travis at Lexington Medical Center. Just hours later, she was being prepped for open heart surgery. Dr. Travis opened up my chest and found that my aorta had a hole in it. So I had a triple bypass and the aorta repaired, and when I woke up [after surgery], the first thing I said to my husband was, I can breathe. Hurt had the surgery on Friday, June 29, 2012. She was released from the hospital on the Fourth of July. It has been a total miracle. When I first came home, all I wanted to do was sleep. I started each day doing more and more, and went back to work within two months.
Hurt says the heart surgery has changed her life completely. I dont know what God left me here for, what purpose. But I hope I can fulfill the gift that was given to me.
I was expecting my whole life to change with the surgery, he said. I never thought Id recover this quickly.
Miller is doing double workouts morning and night in preparation for his show. His exercise regimen includes 30 minutes of continuous crunches. Hes bench pressing more than 300 pounds. Miller says he thanks God for his recovery and for putting him in the talented hands of Lexington Medical Centers cardiovascular surgery team.
Heart Health
A Special Advertising Publication of The State Media Advertising Department and Lexington Medical Center
Around-the-Clock Care
Monitoring and Nursing in SICU/CVICU
Lexington Medical Heart Center Full of Benefits with Duke Medicine Affiliation
Through an affiliation with Duke Medicine, one of the top-ranked heart programs in the nation, patients at Lexington Medical Center are benefitting from Dukes clinical expertise and services.
For a heart patient, what happens after surgery can be just as scary as surgery itself.
Thats why the specially trained nurses in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit/Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (SICU/ CVICU) at Lexington Medical Center provide continuous bedside care and monitoring after heart surgery. Even as patients slowly wake up from surgery, a SICU/CVICU nurse is with them. These nurses have decades of intensive care experience and assist during a patients recovery in SICU/CVICU. And theyre supported by Duke Medicine, one of the nations premier heart programs. Through the hospitals affiliation with Duke, SICU/ CVICU nurses traveled to Durham, NC, to observe the flow of care for heart patients and shadowing cardiac nurses, learning about procedures for the safest and best care possible all before they treated their first patient at Lexington Medical Center. Other health care professionals are on hand in SICU/CVICU, too. Respiratory therapists monitor patients pulmonary needs and cardiac rehabilitation specialists help patients start moving. The care patients receive in SICU/CVICU helps them recover from heart surgery safely and quickly. If surgery and immediate recovery go well, most tubes and special equipment are removed within the first 24 to 48 hours. Patients are normally transferred to a post-surgery nursing floor the day after surgery; however, they may need to stay in SICU/CVICU for several days, depending on the type of heart surgery and the time needed for recovery. On the day of Lexington Medical Centers first open heart procedure in 2012, the Chief of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at Duke traveled to Lexington Medical Center to observe the surgery. A member of the Duke Heart Network Clinical Support Team also spent the day at the hospital to assist clinical staff as the first patient arrived in the cardiovascular intensive care unit after surgery. Over the past year, Duke has provided educational opportunities and quality oversight for Lexington Medical Center physicians and staff. Duke hosts conferences to discuss common concerns and best practices. Lexington Medical Centers cardiovascular team is also able to consult with Duke physicians if needed. And Duke physicians provide peer review for cases. As Lexington Medical Center prepared to begin its open heart surgery program, Duke helped the hospital set up policies and procedures, train staff, and recruit members for the cardiovascular surgery team. Duke also assisted Lexington Medical Center in setting up its cardiovascular catheterization lab to prepare for interventional procedures. And Duke reviewed Lexington Medical Centers patient education materials and conducted monthly site visits to review progress in planning the open heart surgery program. The ability to provide a full range of cardiovascular services was a goal of Lexington Medical Center for years. The hospital operates the second busiest Emergency department in South Carolina, treating more than 100,000 patients each year. The hospital also operates two busy catheterization labs. The Duke Heart Center is a global leader in advancing the care of people with heart disease. As part of Duke Medicine, which is also home to the Duke Clinical Research Institute and the worlds largest and oldest outcomes registry, the Duke Databank for Cardiovascular Disease, its accomplishments in the area of cardiovascular care include medical firsts, innovation, research and education. Duke University Health System performs more than 7,000 diagnostic and interventional coronary catheterizations each year, along with more than 1,000 open heart surgeries, 115 lung transplants and more than 60 heart transplants. The Duke Heart Center has extensive experience working with hospitals throughout the Southeast to strengthen and expand cardiac services at the local level while providing access to Dukes highly specialized services.
Lexington Medical Centers SICU/CVICU has received the prestigious Gold Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses for outstanding patient care, outcomes and work environment. LMC was one of only 14 hospitals in the nation to receive this honor.
LexingtonCardiovascular.com
2728 Sunset Blvd., Suite 101 West Columbia, SC 29169 (803) 936-7095
Heart Health
1 3
deaths
out of every
in South Carolina is related to cardiovascular disease.
If youve been shopping around town lately, you may have noticed storefronts decorated in red for an important cause heart health.
This month, Lexington Medical Center is partnering with the American Heart Association for a new heart disease prevention campaign and weve asked the Midlands business community to join us. The idea is for the Midlands to go red with information about cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke, promoting heart health for every body. More than 150 businesses have signed up to decorate their storefronts with a kit provided by the hospital and AHA that includes window decorations, items for employees, giveaways and educational information about heart disease. Lexington Medical Center is proud to continue our partnership with our community and businesses to educate and raise awareness about cardiovascular disease, and learn how we can impact those statistics, said Barbara Willm, vice president of Community Relations at Lexington Medical Center. Heart disease takes a life every 39 seconds mothers, fathers, siblings, spouses and friends. And its not just a mans disease more women than men die of heart disease each year. Risk factors include excessive weight, high blood pressure and smoking.
seconds.
39
MORE
Women
than men
die of heart disease each year.
factors
Risk
some
Linda Ingle at Jo-Lins Bridal is pleased to partner with Lexington Medical Center and the American Heart Association. Both her mother and father suffered from heart problems.
Harold Wray at Wray Volkswagon/Mazda partnered with Lexington Medical Center for Midlands Goes Red to encourage those in the business and professional community to participate in a program with real results.
(803) 936-7095 LexingtonCardiovascular.com 2728 Sunset Blvd., Suite 101 West Columbia, SC 29169
2601 Laurel Street Suite 260 Columbia, SC 29204 (803) 744-4900 131 Sunset Court West Columbia, SC 29169 (803) 744-4940 1 The Commons Lugoff, SC 29078 (803) 729-4610 lmcLexingtonCardiology.com Left to right: Dr. S. Stanley Juk Jr.; Dr. William D. Brearley Jr.; Dr. Stephen E. Van Horn Jr.; Dr. R. Taylor Williams; Dr. Michael C. Roberts; Dr. Robert M. Malanuk; Dr. Joseph J. Lawton III; Dr. William W. Brabham; Dr. Amy Rawl Epps; Dr. Richard E. Umbach
Heart Health
A Special Advertising Publication of The State Media Advertising Department and Lexington Medical Center
We live in a part of the country known as the Stroke Belt. For reasons no one completely understands, people in South Carolina and seven other Southern states are more likely to have a stroke and die from it than people living in other parts of the nation.
Is it our love for fried foods? Lack of exercise or a limited access to doctors in rural areas? Neurologist Dr. David Hammett of The Columbia Medical Group, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice, says all of the above. Dr. Hammett said poor dietary habits, smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes are all risk factors for stroke. Instead of making key lifestyle changes now to avoid a problem,our culture is often one that waits for something to happen and then plays catch up, Dr. Hammett said. Stroke remains the third-leading cause of death in the United States, after heart disease and cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds. Those numbers add up. But according to Dr. Hammett, what people fail to realize when they hear the statistics is that stroke is the greatest cause of permanent long-term disability disability that often changes the rest of your life. Signs of stroke include sudden weakness, numbness, paralysis, loss of vision, dizziness, imbalance, severe headache or loss of speech. You know what you want to say, but you cant say it. It comes out as gobbledygook, Dr. Hammett said. If you think youre having a stroke, Dr. Hammett says get to an emergency room as quickly as you can. Hammett says time is of the essence. We usually say you have three hours from the time of onset to determine if a patient can be helped by a clotbusting drug. In other words, if you suddenly felt dizzy and weak, and had a hard time putting a sentence together at lunch, but wait until supper to get checked out, its often The good news is that too late. There is so little medical facilities time to re-establish like Lexington blood supply, said Dr. Hammett. The portion Medical Center have of the brain affected treatments available by stroke those cells that can help limit the are dead, theyre never size and severity of the going to recover. How well a patient recovers most common kind is determined by how of stroke, caused by a well the undamaged blocked artery. part of the brain can take over the dead cells responsibilities. In fact, Lexington Dr. Hammett says, Medical Center is a Once you have a stroke, Certified Primary Stroke preventing the next one is Center. The hospital also the focus, when we should received the American have been focusing on Heart Association preventing the first one. and American Stroke Its never too late to try Associations Stroke Gold and improve your health. Plus Award. Its your life. Drugs called clot With determination busters, or thrombolytics, and hard work, South can interrupt a stroke. Carolinians can unbuckle The most well-known the belt around our state clot buster is called tPA and have more quality and its known to be able time doing the things to stop the stroke from we love. progressing, and prevent disability and death. Dr.
Teresa Addy:
Stroke Survivor
Teresa Addy will tell you that a stroke can happen to anyone when you least expect it.
Addy suffered a stroke in 1995 at the young age of 32. The Lexington County woman was attending a conference with her husband at The Grove Park Inn in North Carolina. After dinner one night, she went to her room with a terrible headache, thinking My head is about to kill me. At first, she thought the headache was from the stress of traveling especially leaving her three young children ages five to eight at home with family. She had no idea how serious her situation was becoming. In the middle of the night, she woke up nauseated and the terrible headache was still there. Soon, she passed out on the floor with her husband sleeping nearby. He found her there the next morning. Addy spent a week in intensive care at a hospital in Asheville, then she completed occupational and physical therapy back at home. Looking back on that night, she remembers vomiting then feeling the pressure in her head go away right before she went unconscious. Doctors later told her that may have been a blood vessel in her head rupturing. The stroke affected the left side of
TERESA ADDY
Addys body and 18 years later, she still feels some effects. Today, when I get really tired, my speech is slurred by the end of the day, she said. Doctors told Addy her main risk factor for stroke was high blood pressure. Today, she takes blood pressure medication. As women, we put ourselves on the back burner because were so concerned about our children but taking care of ourselves is the best thing we can do for our children, she said. Women do not need to neglect themselves. If you think something is wrong, have it looked at.
Teresa Addys family business, Craig Reagin Clothiers in Lexington, is participating in The Midlands Goes Red with Lexington Medical Center this month. Teresa works in the store with her husband and three sons.
Stroke is an Emergency
Stroke Symptoms:
Numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding Difficulty seeing with one or both eyes Severe headache with no known cause Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
If you or someone you know experiences any of these stroke symptoms, call 911 immediately. Treatment within 60 minutes can prevent disability.
Dont smoke Maintain a healthy weight Exercise regularly Eat healthy foods Manage your blood pressure Take charge of cholesterol Keep blood sugar in check
Heart Health
Wine
In moderation
Drink Water
Fruit, Vegetables, Grains (mostly whole), Olive Oil, Beans, Nuts, Legumes and Seeds, Herbs and Spices
Base every meal on these foods
Changing the way you eat is an important step to reduce your risk of heart disease.
Eating a healthy diet can contribute to your heart health by: p roviding you with energy; reducing high blood lipid levels; controlling high blood pressure; reducing inflammation in the coronary arteries; taking off extra pounds.
Blood Pressure:
Screenings include:
Blood Pressure Assessment Lipid Profile (Total Cholesterol, HDL, LDL and Triglycerides) for coronary heart disease risk Glucose (blood level) screening for risk of developing diabetes Iron Profile (iron and iron binding capacity) for iron deficiency, anemia and iron overload disorders or Hemochromatosis PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test for prostate cancer
Some of these screenings require a 12-hour fast prior to the time of the health screening. Determined by a simple blood test, the results of each component of your screening are mailed confidentially, along with instructions for understanding the screening results. When needed, clinicians provide follow-up recommendations to ensure that anyone with a health concern is offered resources for future prevention or further diagnosis and treatment.
Total Cholesterol:
less than
120/80 180
less than
LDL Cholesterol:
less than
For information or to schedule free health care screenings for your organization, call Lexington Medical Center Community Outreach at (803) 936-8850.
HDL Cholesterol:
more than
A graduate of the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, Dr. Brearley completed his internship and residency at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC, followed by fellowships in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Dr. Brearley, who is board certified in internal medicine and cardiovascular disease, has been published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, the International Journal of Cardiology and the Journal of Electrocardiology.
60 Optimal
Listen to Dr. Brearley speak at a free Physician Lecture Series on February 25th at 6:00 p.m. in the Lexington Medical Park 1 Auditorium. Topic: When Seconds Count Protocols For Treatment of Acute Heart Attack Ac c e p t i n g n e w pat i e n t s lmcLexingtonCardiology.com
1 The Commons Lugoff, SC 29078 (803) 729-4610 131 Sunset Court West Columbia, SC 29169 (803) 744-4940
A Lexington Medical Center Physician Practice
less than
less than
Heart Health
A Special Advertising Publication of The State Media Advertising Department and Lexington Medical Center
According to Dr. Mitchell Jacocks, a cardiologist at Sumter Cardiology, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice, keeping cholesterol levels healthy is a great way to be heart smart. But understanding cholesterol isnt easy, because not all of it is bad for you.
Why Should I be Concerned About Cholesterol? High cholesterol levels are strongly associated with atherosclerosis, which is the leading cause of heart attacks, stroke and peripheral vascular disease. Whats the Difference Between Good and Bad Cholesterol? Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often called bad cholesterol. Too much LDL causes plaque to form on artery walls. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) carries cholesterol from your cells back to your liver, where it can be eliminated from your body. HDL is known as good cholesterol because high levels may lower your risk for heart disease. What About Triglycerides? Triglycerides are the main form of fat in the body. High triglyceride levels may lead to heart disease, especially in people with low levels of good cholesterol and high levels of bad cholesterol, and those with type 2 diabetes. Can I Lower My Risk for Heart Disease if I Lower My Cholesterol? Yes! Every 1% decrease in LDL results in a 1% decrease in cardiovascular effects. What Makes Cholesterol Levels Go Up? Cholesterol levels vary with diet and activity levels. Genetics also play a significant role in lipid levels. What Can I Do to Lower My Cholesterol Levels? Diet and exercise are key components of lipid control. Consider other treatable risk factors, such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension and tobacco use. At What Age Should I Begin Having My Cholesterol Checked? Recommendations vary from pediatric testing in high-risk individuals to screening in young adulthood. Repeat screening should be considered periodically as levels tend to increase with age.
Red blood cells in healthy artery
Under Pressure:
Dr. William Brearley is a cardiologist at Lexington Cardiology, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice.
What is Blood Pressure? Blood pressure represents the amount of force created by blood pushing against artery walls. Why is High Blood Pressure Dangerous? High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, arrhythmia and stroke. It can also cause the heart to pump harder to circulate blood, which can lead to congestive heart failure. What Do Each of the Numbers Mean? The top number is systolic pressure the amount of pressure that blood exerts on vessels while the heart is contracting. The bottom number is diastolic pressure the amount of pressure while the heart is relaxed. How Can People Prevent Blood Pressure Complications? Have your blood pressure checked regularly, exercise, eat a healthy diet and minimize stress.
Lexington Medical Centers Cardiac Rehabilitation is a 12-week comprehensive program of supervised exercise, education and risk-factor modification. Designed to help patients fully recover from a heart attack, stent procedure or open heart surgery, participation also reduces the likelihood of another heart incident.
With an individualized treatment plan for insomnia, apnea and other disorders, you can return to sleepfilled nights and regain your health.
Clarence E. Coker III, MD; Sarkis S. Derderian, DO; Mohamed S. Soliman, MD; M. Christopher Marshall, MD; Paul M. Kirschenfeld, MD
lexingtonsleepsolutions.com
(803) 791-2683
Heart Health
A person is considered obese if he or she weighs at least 20% more than the maximum healthy weight for his or her height.
A quick way to assess weight is to use the Body Mass Index (BMI). Thats a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies for adult men and women, and can be calculated using the BMI table below:
WEIGHT IN POUNDS
100 30.5 28.1 26.0 24.1 22.4 20.9 19.5 18.3 17.2 16.1 15.2 14.3 13.6 12.8 12.2 11.6 11.0 10.5 10.0 110 33.6 30.9 28.6 26.5 24.7 23.0 21.5 20.1 18.9 17.8 16.7 15.8 14.9 14.1 13.4 12.7 12.1 11.5 11.0 120 36.6 33.7 31.2 28.9 26.9 25.1 23.4 21.9 20.6 19.4 18.2 17.2 16.3 15.4 14.6 13.9 13.2 12.5 12.0 130 39.7 36.6 33.8 31.3 29.1 27.2 25.4 23.8 22.3 21.0 19.8 18.7 17.6 16.7 15.8 15.0 14.3 13.6 13.0 140 42.7 39.4 36.4 33.8 31.4 29.3 27.3 25.6 24.0 22.6 21.3 20.1 19.0 18.0 17.0 16.2 15.4 14.6 13.9 150 45.8 42.2 39.0 36.2 33.6 31.3 29.3 27.4 25.7 24.2 22.8 21.5 20.3 19.3 18.3 17.3 16.5 15.7 14.9 160 48.8 45.0 41.6 38.6 35.9 33.4 31.2 29.3 27.5 25.8 24.3 23.0 21.7 20.5 19.5 18.5 17.6 16.7 15.9 170 51.9 47.8 44.2 41.0 38.1 35.5 33.2 31.1 29.2 27.4 25.8 24.4 23.1 21.8 20.7 19.6 18.7 17.8 16.9 180 54.9 50.6 46.8 43.4 40.4 37.6 35.2 32.9 30.9 29.0 27.4 25.8 24.4 23.1 21.9 20.8 19.8 18.8 17.9 190 58.0 53.4 49.4 45.8 42.6 39.7 37.1 34.7 32.6 30.7 28.9 27.3 25.8 24.4 23.1 22.0 20.9 19.9 18.9 200 61.0 56.2 52.0 48.2 44.8 41.8 39.1 36.6 34.3 32.3 30.4 28.7 27.1 25.7 24.3 23.1 22.0 20.9 19.9 210 64.1 59.1 54.6 50.6 47.1 43.9 41.0 38.4 36.0 33.9 31.9 30.1 28.5 27.0 25.6 24.3 23.1 22.0 20.9 220 67.1 61.9 57.2 53.0 49.3 46.0 43.0 402 37.8 35.5 33.4 31.6 29.8 28.2 26.8 25.4 24.2 23.0 21.9 230 70.2 64.7 59.8 55.4 51.6 48.1 44.9 42.1 39.5 37.1 35.0 33.0 31.2 29.5 28.0 26.6 25.3 24.0 22.9 240 73.2 67.5 62.4 57.9 53.8 50.2 46.9 43.9 41.2 38.7 36.5 34.4 32.5 30.8 29.2 27.7 26.4 25.1 23.9 250 76.3 70.3 65.0 60.3 56.0 52.2 48.8 45.7 42.9 40.3 38.0 35.9 33.9 32.1 30.4 28.9 27.5 26.1 24.9
Underweight
Step 1: C alculate your current BMI based on your height and weight, using the table above. Step 2: Determine your current BMI: <18.5 Underweight 18.524.5 Normal 25.029.9 Overweight 30.039.9 Obese >40.0 Severely Obese
Normal
Overweight
Obese
Step 3: A normal BMI range is 18.524.9. To determine the normal weight range for your height: refer back to the BMI table in step 1; locate the column representing your height; fi nd the numbers in your height column ranging from 18 to 25; look to the weight columns highlighted in green to find your normal weight range.
People who are overweight or suffer from obesity are more likely to develop forms of heart disease, such as heart attack, congestive heart failure, sudden cardiac death, angina (chest pain) and abnormal heart rhythm, even if they have no other heart disease risk factors. The more overweight a person is, the more likely he or she is to develop heart disease. Patients who are overweight or obese are more likely to have high blood pressure, diabetes, high levels of triglycerides (a type of fat found in the blood) and LDL cholesterol (a
fat-like substance often called bad cholesterol), and low levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol). These are all risk factors for heart disease and stroke. In addition, people with more body fat have higher blood levels of substances that cause inflammation. Inflammation in blood vessels and throughout the body may increase the risk for heart disease. Many medical studies have shown that obesity creates a larger blood volume than normal and increases the amount of resistance in blood vessels. This results in hypertension, or high
blood pressure. In fact, hypertension is approximately three times more common in obese than normal-weight persons. In addition, obesity induces a high secretion of insulin in the blood, which results in many changes in the body: thickening of the vessels, which increases their rigidity, thus increasing blood pressure; increases cardiac output, because the secretion of adrenalin increases; induces the reabsorption of water and salt by the kidney, which increases the blood volume and thus increases blood pressure; over-sensitivity to sodium, which is known to increase the rigidity of blood vessels. After some time, an obese person will develop a natural resistance to insulin, which will lead the body to synthetize more and raise blood pressure by way of the mechanisms described above. Overweight patients are also more likely than lean patients to develop type 2 diabetes, and the risk of developing diabetes increases as BMI increases. Fat, especially abdominal fat, may cause a condition called insulin resistance. This occurs when insulin cannot get into cells to lower the amount of glucose, or sugar, found in the blood. When the body senses that there is too much glucose in the blood, the pancreas produces more insulin, which results in high levels of both glucose and insulin in the blood. While all this insulin may eventually lower blood glucose levels to normal, it may also damage the inner linings of the arteries and trigger other changes in body chemistry that encourage heart disease. Together, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia (high blood levels of insulin) are associated with a cluster of abnormalities collectively
Surgery Center at Lexington Medical Center, where he had a consultation with Dr. Marc Antonetti.
Dr. Antonetti told me, If you dont do something, I dont expect you to live more than five years. Your health issues are so bad, they will kill you!
That thought was devastating. Baumgardner, a Lexington County Sheriffs Department detective, has been married to his wife Ellen for nearly 30 years. They have two sons who serve in the South Carolina Army National Guard.
Baumgardner had gastric bypass surgery at Lexington Medical Center in November 2011. He lost 80 pounds in six months. He eats a strict, protein-based diet, cutting out as much sugar as possible. He also walks two to three miles a day. Food is not the most important
thing to me now. Before, I was always thinking of food, he said. I used to live to eat now I eat to live. He credits the surgery as a tool that gave him the chance to survive. He no longer needs medicine for high blood pressure, high
cholesterol or diabetes. Losing weight has reduced his heart disease risks significantly. Today, Baumgardner weighs 228 pounds. He has lost a total of 162 pounds. Its a second lease on life, he said.
Heart Health
A Special Advertising Publication of The State Media Advertising Department and Lexington Medical Center
Its Electric
William W. Brabham, MD Lexington Cardiology
If there is a problem with your hearts electrical system, blood flow can be disrupted and lead to health problems such as arrhythmias, palpitations and even stroke. As an electrophysiologist at Lexington Cardiology, William W. Brabham, MD, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of arrhythmias, or abnormal heart rhythms. Patients with symptoms of arrhythmias, such as irregular heart beat, palpitations, light-headedness or passing out, are candidates for electrophysiology testing. While not all patients with arrhythmias require invasive therapy, we can review available options to determine the best strategy for each patient, said Dr. Brabham. Electrophysiology (EP) studies are new to Lexington Medical
with Electrophysiology
Did you know that your heart has an electrical system? It does! Your hearts electrical system creates the signals that tell it when to beat. And your heartbeat is what pumps blood throughout your body, bringing oxygen and other nutrients to help it function properly.
Centers complete cardiac care program. During an EP study, an electrophysiologist positions catheters in the heart to diagnose arrhythmias. Cardiac arrhythmias are very common, especially in the aging population of South Carolina. But these illnesses are treatable and can be curable when using newer techniques and technology. Atrial fibrillation, the most common arrhythmia in adults, is now potentially curable with catheter ablation, said Dr. Brabham. Ablation utilizes a catheter to deliver radiofrequency or an alternative energy source to burn cardiac tissue that causes arrhythmias. If a patient needs to have this procedure, it is performed in conjunction with an EP study. EP may also involve the treatment of heart problems including insertion of pacemakers or other device-based therapies to help your heart run properly. Electrophysiology is an essential component of complete cardiovascular care that enables Lexington Medical Center to provide a new dimension of arrhythmia management for patients in Lexington and our surrounding communities, he said. According to Dr. Brabham, electrophysiology has grown as a specialty due to advances in understanding cardiac arrhythmias and improvements in techniques and technology. As a result, outcomes following these procedures are better than ever before.
One of every three American children is overweight or obese, according to statistics from the American Heart Association. Thats nearly triple the rate from 1963.
These children are at risk for high blood pressure, diabetes and the beginning signs of coronary artery disease. Dr. Lillie Bates is a pediatrician with Lexington Pediatric Practice, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice. When I was in my medical residency 20 years ago, it was very uncommon to see a child with adulttype diabetes, she said. Now, its not unusual at all. The way your body processes calories and food changes with extra weight, causing the beginning of diabetes. High blood pressure in children is also an emerging problem. Children should gain only about 3 to 5 pounds per year. But pediatricians are also performing more testing for high blood pressure and cholesterol in young children because of weight issues. Lexington Pediatric Practice works to identify children headed for problems with weight by stressing the importance of annual well-checkups and tracking children on growth charts. They also recommend the right balance of nutrition and activities. Nutrition begins with breastfeeding babies. Studies show breast milk provides the best fat/ protein balance for the first year of life.
Activity Guidelines
Dr. Bates recommends 60 minutes of physical activity each day, but it does not have to be all at the same time. Jump rope, dance to your favorite songs, walk the dog or take a walk with family, she said. Pediatricians also advise two hours or less of screen time each day, unless its homework-related. Twenty years ago, there were fewer gaming systems, Dr. Bates said. So children were more likely to be running around and playing outside. And doctors say no sugarsweetened or sports drinks, except after intense exercise or activity. In that case, a drink that will help to replace electrolytes is okay. The right amount of sleep also affects your metabolism. Children need 7 to 8 hours per night, with more recommended for preschoolers and teenagers. Eat right, exercise and sleep, Dr. Bates said. There are no shortcuts.
eat often!
Go
Slow Whoa
Fatty or fried meats Ground beef (more than 10% fat) Regular hot dogs Bologna Regular bacon Ribs White flour products White rice Potatoes Macaroni and cheese Sauces with added sugar Vegetables prepared with fatback, bacon grease or butter
avoid!
Fish and seafood, baked or broiled Beefsirloin, tenderloin Skinless chicken breast Ground beef (extra lean) Lean deli meat Ground turkey breast Barley Rolled Oats Wild and brown rice Whole wheat pasta Fresh fruits and vegetables (5 servings per day) Skim milk Water
Eggs Ground beef (lean) Turkey bacon Lean turkey dogs or lean hot dogs Corn Tortillas Macaroni Spaghetti Sauces with lean meat or low-fat cheese
According to Dr. Bates, even children as young as age 10 may show the early signs of heart disease.
10
Heart Health
Do you have high cholesterol or blood pressure? Do you smoke? Do you have diabetes or a family history of stroke, heart attack or aneurysm? If you are older than 50 and answered yes to any of these questions, you are at a higher risk for peripheral vascular disease.
What is peripheral vascular disease?
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) describes diseases of the blood vessels. Blood vessels consist of arteries, which carry oxygen-rich blood to all of the body, and veins, which return blood back to the heart. PVD commonly appears as carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and aneurysms of the abdominal or thoracic aorta (AAA). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cardiovascular disease accounts for more than 1/3 of all deaths in the United States.
Vascular Disease:
older than 50 years of age with the following risk factors: Smoking High cholesterol High blood pressure Diabetes Family history of stroke, heart attack or aneurysm
Screening Dates
March 18, 2013 April 4, 2013 May 2, 2013 June 25, 2013
Individual All three screenings screenings
$
50
125
A Lexington Medical Center Physician Practice 146 North Hospital Drive, Suite 310 West Columbia, SC 29169
SouthernSurgical.com
Heart Health
A Special Advertising Publication of The State Media Advertising Department and Lexington Medical Center
11
A Different Stroke
Early one morning in October of 2000, Catherine Flitter, a West Columbia resident and classroom instructor with Lexington School District 2, suddenly had her world turned upside down.
While preparing for work, Flitter took one last glance at her reflection in her bedroom mirror when she saw a swirl of color and her face began to droop. I felt no pain or fear. I was convinced that it must be a Monday morning moment, she said. In seconds, her left side began to draw inward. Flitters family physician admitted her to HealthSouth after more testing revealed she had suffered a right parietal stroke. The magnitude was severe. I was no longer available as the wife and mother that my husband and son knew. Her health care team later told her that no one would offer any long-term recovery prognosis because of the severity and difficulty of rehabilitation from this type of brain injury. It was with this prognosis that Flitter started her life over. She learned how to walk, talk and dress herself again. I began my new life with a wheelchair and the alphabet. After completing 13 grueling months of outpatient rehabilitation, including speech and occupational therapy, Flitter had no direction for additional rehab. I had surpassed all charts for this type of stroke and there was no facility at the time who knew what to do with me. We were fortunate to be guided to Cardiac Rehab at Lexington Medical Center, where I again surpassed all levels. Then Cardiac Rehab directed her to Health Directions, Lexington Medical Centers wellness facility. Using a medical-based model for its programs and services, Health Directions is staffed by trained health
and wellness instructors who are skilled in helping people recover from a variety of health conditions. When she first arrived at Health Directions, Flitter could only walk by dragging her left foot. She spoke with an impediment, couldnt tell time and had no concept of sequencing. Essentially, she was starting at a prekindergarten learning level. When I got to Health Directions, I wanted to regain all that I could. The staff was willing to listen, learn and allow me, along with my physicians, to forge new ground. Each trainer that I worked with had their own expertise; everyone worked together. Now 63 years young, people cant tell that Flitter had a massive stroke by looking at her. Even when she speaks,
most people cant tell. Her trainers at Health Directions have taught her how to spell, count, distinguish left from right and improve her mobility. I am blessed that they were sent to me. In addition to her rehabilitation, Flitter attributes her miraculous story to her organic diet, Christian faith, and the support and affection of her husband and son. I am the product of diligence, desire and determination.
Health Directions has moved to a new 12,000-square-foot location at 3239 Sunset Boulevard in West Columbia! For more information, visit lmcHealthDirections.com.
New heart specialist brings even more expertise to Lexington Medical Center.
Lexington Cardiology welcomes Electrophysiologist William Brabham, MD, to its growing team of heart specialists.
Dr. Brabham, the top graduate of his class at the Medical University of South Carolina, earned board certification in internal medicine at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC, and returned to MUSC to complete fellowships in cardiovascular disease and cardiac electrophysiology. A member of the American College of Cardiology and American Medical Association, Dr. Brabham proudly joins the physicians of the Lexington Medical Center Network of Care. Ac c e p t i n g n e w pat i e n t s
1 The Commons Lugoff, SC 29078 (803) 729-4610 131 Sunset Court West Columbia, SC 29169 (803) 744-4940 2601 Laurel St., Suite 260 Columbia, SC 29204 (803) 744-4900
lmcLexingtonCardiology.com
West Columbia: 3239 Sunset Boulevard Irmo: 1674-E Lake Murray Boulevard (803) 791-2113 lmcHealthDirections.com
12
Heart Health
SEMINARS
7 Bariatric Weight Loss Seminar Learn 9 about bariatric surgeries from South Carolina 19 Obesity Surgery Center. Topics include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy and adjustable gastric banding. Call to register: 1-866-560-4415 25 Physician Lecture Series Lexington Medical Center is pleased to present a monthly lecture series featuring physicians speaking about medical topics that are important to our community. LMP 1 Auditorium at 6 p.m. 936-8850 Cancer Services New Patient Orientation A program for all newly diagnosed cancer patients and/or caregivers to discuss the what nows including financial, insurance and disability information, general treatment options, cancer terminology, resources and support options. Meets the first and third Thursday of every month at 5 p.m. in the Lexington Medical Park 1 Ground Floor Conference Room. For more information, contact Chris Gibson, LMSW, OSW-C. 939-8774.
health management
7 Infant/Child CPR Class Learn how to perform 26 CPR, respond to choking and discuss related safety issues for infants or children. Class space is limited. $5 per person. 68 p.m. 791-2318 7 Preparing for Total Joint Replacement Learn about care after surgery, pain management, exercise and rehabilitation. 57 p.m. No cost. 791-2318 14 Preparing for Hysterectomy Prepares you for upcoming surgery and teaches you how to take care of yourself afterward. 68 p.m. No cost. 791-2318 Asthma Wellness Classes Series of individualized visits with a respiratory therapist and a pharmacist. 791-2444 Cardiac, Pulmonary and Vascular Rehabilitation A physician-referred program that includes monitored exercise, education and healthy lifestyle modification. 791-2621 Nutrition Counseling A registered dietitian will help manage your illness or reduce your risk of illness with a personalized nutrition program. 791-2198 Pulmonary Rehab 101 A two-visit, outpatient program for adults with chronic lung disease and their families. 13 p.m., Ground Floor, Pulmonary Rehab Classroom. support groups 5 Bariatric Support Group For those who have had bariatric weight-loss surgery and their families. Meets at 6 p.m., LMP 1 Auditorium. 791-2828 5 Multiple Sclerosis Support Group Meets the first Tuesday of each month. 78:30 p.m., Granby Room. 312-4751
wellness
Personal Training Program Are you tired of the same old workout and want to take your workouts to the next level? Are you dealing with shoulder, knee or other joint problems? Our personal trainers work with clients of all experience levels to increase strength, endurance and flexibility. Call for details. 791-2113 Pre-natal Yoga Class Alleviate many of the discomforts of pregnancy and learn relaxation techniques to relieve stress during delivery. Call for details. 791-2113 To learn more about the instructors, personal trainers and members of Health Directions, visit our Facebook page or view our videos on YouTube. MATERNITY PROGRAMS 4 Your Special Touch: Infant Massage 11 A three-week series.9:3010:30 a.m. or 18 6:307:30 p.m. Cost $30 or $15 if taken with Your Special Delivery. 5 Caring For You and Your Baby 28 Learn how to care for you and your baby after delivery. No cost. 68:30 p.m. 791-2318 5 Your Special Delivery 12 A series class designed to prepare you for the 19 childbirth experience. 6:309 p.m. for 4 26 consecutive Tuesdays. Cost $50. 791-2318 9 Your Special Delivery 23 A one-session class designed to prepare you for the childbirth experience. Meets on Saturday from 9 a.m.5 p.m. Cost $50. 791-2318 12 Super Sibling Helps children ages 310 21 prepare for the arrival of your new baby. No cost. 67:30 p.m. 791-2318
Visit LexMed.com to learn more about the programs offered at Lexington Medical Center.
FOUNDATION FOCUS
Gifts from the Lexington Medical Center family and the community make it possible for the Lexington Medical Center Foundation to support our mission providing quality health services that meet the needs of our community.
Pillows
Each open heart surgery patient receives a heart-shaped pillow from the Lexington Medical Center Foundation. The pillow is designed to gently support and protect a patients chest when he or she coughs. Members of the patients care team also sign the pillow.
Scholarships
The Lexington Medical Center Foundation provides scholarships for heart patients who do not have adequate financial resources to cover the cost of cardiac rehabilitation. Giving to the Lexington Medical Center Foundation can do your heart and the hearts of others extraordinary good. With your support, the Lexington Medical Center Foundation is able to provide cardiac rehabilitation scholarships for patients in need, comfort care items and patient education materials.
If you would like to make a contribution to the Lexington Medical Center Foundations cardiovascular programs, visit
lmcFoundation.com