Carotid Artery Disease and Vascular Surgery

Written By: Sara Loch

The carotid arteries are the arteries that carry the main supply of blood to the brain.  They break off from the aorta (the largest artery in the body) a short distance from the heart, and extend upward through the neck.  There are four carotid arteries – one pair on each side of the neck.  If you have ever felt for your pulse in your neck, you were feeling for the carotid arteries.  These arteries are very important because the brain requires a constant supply of blood.  If these arteries become diseased, treatment such as vascular surgery may be necessary.

What is carotid artery disease?

Carotid artery disease that may require vascular surgery Washington DC is when these arteries become narrowed.  It is most commonly related to a condition called atherosclerosis.  Atherosclerosis is the buildup of plaque (deposits of fatty substances, cholesterol, and other material) on the inner lining of the artery.  It is usually a slow, progressive condition that you may have for many years without knowing it; however, it does progress rapidly in some people.  Your carotid arteries may be slowly narrowing for years with no indication that you may need vascular surgery DC until you have a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or a stroke.  These occur when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, often due to narrowed arteries or to pieces of plaque breaking away from the inner lining of the artery and obstructing blood flow.

In addition to vascular surgery Washington DC, treatment can include medication and management of risk factors.  Risk factors that you may be able to modify include: smoking, high cholesterol, lack of exercise, poor eating habits, and high blood pressure.

Vascular surgery Washington DC

Often following a diagnosis of carotid artery disease, treatment at a vascular surgery center Washington DC will be recommended.  For those who have only a short blockage in the artery, a vascular surgery Washington DC called carotid endarterectomy may be needed.  During this procedure, a surgeon at a vascular surgery center Washington DC opens the artery in the neck to remove the blockage.  Another option at vascular surgery hospitals Washington DC is a minimally invasive procedure where a very small hallow tube is inserted into the artery to help hold it open.  Visit www.medstarwashington.org/our-services/medstar-heart-vascular-institute/treatments/vascular-surgery to learn more about vascular surgery Washington DC.

A-Fib is Common Heart Condition

Written By: Sara Loch

Your circulatory system is made up of the vessels that carry blood throughout the body.  Veins carry blood to the heart,  then arteries carry oxygenated blood to all the organs and cells of your body.  For this to happen, the four chambers of the heart need to contract in an organized manor to efficiently pump blood from one chamber to the other, and then out into the body.  Sometimes, the signal that controls the contraction of the heart can become disorganized causing the chambers of the heart to contract irregularly and sometimes quickly.  This irregular heart rhythm is called atrial fibrillation (A-fib) and can be a serious medical condition.

Atrial fibrillation causes and symptoms

It is often unknown what causes atrial fibrillation, but any of the following things can increase the risk that you will need atrial fibrillation treatment Washington DC: older age, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, heart valve defects, lung disease, obstructive sleep apnea, or coronary artery disease.  Atrial fibrillation is most common in people who are over 65 and is more common in men than in women.

Symptoms can be different for different people, but some signs that you may need atrial fibrillation treatment DC include:

• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Fatigue

Sometimes, atrial fibrillation has no symptoms or the symptoms may occur briefly then go away.  Diagnosis will start with a physical exam and discussion of your symptoms, but often also includes tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG).  This test is used to study the heart signal and rhythm.  Other tests may include an echocardiogram, cardiac stress testing, and blood work.

Atrial fibrillation treatment Washington DC

A-fib treatment Washington DC is specific to each case.  If the underlying cause is known, A-fib treatment DC will focus on that.  If the cause is not known, A-fib treatment Washington DC can include: anti-coagulation medicine (blood thinners), medicine to slow the heartbeat, and medicines to treat heart failure.  A-fib treatment Washington DC can also include lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and being physically active.  If these treatments are not successful, atrial fibrillation treatment DC can include a procedure to block or isolate the signals causing the irregular heartbeat.  You can learn more about atrial fibrillation treatment Washington DC at http://www.medstarwashington.org/our-services/medstar-heart-vascular-institute/conditions/atrial-fibrillation/.

Change Your Lifestyle Before Bariatric Surgery

Written By: Sara Loch

Bariatric surgery is surgery to assist with weight loss, but it is not for everyone who is overweight.  Your doctor will want to discuss your lifestyle and try to identify areas where you may be able to make changes to try to lose weight without surgery before recommending you for bariatric surgery Washington DC.  There are two main reasons for this:

1. Bariatric surgery Washington DC is a serious procedure and should only be considered as a last resort. If other treatments may help, those should be done first.
2. Weight loss surgery Washington DC can be very effective, but will not work without committing to lifelong changes. You must prove that you are capable of these changes before surgery.
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Changes needed before bariatric surgery Washington DC

With or without surgery, weight management Washington DC requires lifestyle changes.  This can be very difficult if you have had a lifetime of unhealthy eating.  You may not even know what constitutes “healthy eating” or have any clue how to prepare healthy meals.  For some people, prepackaged, processed foods are the only foods they know.  Even with weight loss surgery DC, you will be unsuccessful in your weight loss endeavors if you do not change the way you think about food and learn how to make healthy choices.  You will need to avoid sugary, high-calorie drinks and learn to choose foods that that are nutritious and low calorie.  This can require very drastic changes for some people, and meeting with a nutritionist can help.

In addition to healthy food choices, an active lifestyle is needed for healthy weight management Washington DC.  You must devote time 5-7 days a week to exercise.  Sometimes meeting with a trainer can help get you motivated and teach you how to exercise.

Before you can be recommended for bariatric surgery Washington DC, your doctor will want you to demonstrate that you can make these lifestyle changes.  You may find that the changes are enough and that you are losing weight that way; or you may find that you do need the help of weight loss surgery DC.  You can learn more about bariatrics and weight management DC at http://www.medstarwashington.org/.

A-fib Treatment Options

Written By: Rachael Kaine

The Importance of Treating A-fib

Health conditions that can impact the body’s health are not to be overlooked or ignored. The things that can cause health to decline over time range in nature from routine to serious and chronic; no two individuals are the same. For this reason among others, treatment processes are going to be very different for everyone seeking medical attention, especially for a condition like a-fib. Atrial fibrillation treatment DC is meant to help patients that suffer from an irregular heartbeat get their health back on track, improving heart health and allowing them to live their lives as normal - at least whenever possible. Without treatment, this condition can impact people’s lives, causing serious outcomes like heart attacks, strokes, blood clots and a weakening of the heart’s muscles over time... and no one wants that to happen.

Options for A-fib Treatment

Medicines are the first line of defense for patients that have been diagnosed with this condition, especially if it is a mild case of atrial fibrillation. In order to find a reputable health care facility that cam meet the needs of patients, some research needs to be done. Visiting websites like http://www.medstarwashington.org/ will allow you to find out what different hospitals offer, where they are located, the specialists that work there, and what to expect from treatment.

These medicines begin with beta blockers, which help to correct the rhythm of the heart, returning it to normal and keeping it there. Another type of A-fib treatment Washington DC is the use of calcium channel blockers or digitalis in order to slow the heart rate down, reducing the feeling of a racing heart. To keep blood clots from forming, your doctor may prescribe blood thinners of various strengths. The type of medicine that you’ll need to take will depend on the severity of your condition and your overall diagnosis.

If medicine won’t do it alone, a mild electric shock via electrical cardioversion can help to change your heart’s beating back to a “normal” rhythm. This isn’t a first resort, and your doctor will be able to direct you to the right treatment method, only prescribing what is absolutely necessary to improve your heart’s condition.

As a final resort, surgery may be necessary to correct your atrial fibrillation. This surgery can be used to insert a pacemaker that will automatically “knock” your heart back into a normal rhythm when an episode begins, or to change the flow of electrical impulses across the surface of the muscle using a “maze” procedure that causes scarring and the eventual reversal of a-fib in most cases.

Limiting Risk Can Help Prevent Need for Vascular Surgery

Written By: Sara Loch

Vascular disease is a condition that usually affects arteries, veins, and blood flow.  It can affect any part of your body and many different body systems, so often vascular surgery or other treatments are necessary for vascular disease.

Causes of conditions that require vascular surgery DC

Vascular disease is usually when blood vessels become damaged or blocked; or when valves in veins are damaged.  Sometimes the cause is unknown, but sometimes the following things can lead to the need for vascular surgery DC:

• Atherosclerosis: This is a buildup of plaque in the lining of an artery.  It can progress quickly, but is usually a slow, progressive disease that can thicken the artery walls.  This thickening can lead to decreased blood flow or can block the flow of blood.
• Blood clots: A blood vessel can be blocked by an embolus (a tiny mass of debris that moves through the blood stream) or a thrombus (a blood clot).
• Inflammation: Inflammation of blood vessels can lead to narrowing and blockage.
• Trauma or injury: Blood vessels can require vascular surgery Washington DC after being narrowed or blocked by an injury that leads to infection or inflammation.
• Genetic: Certain conditions of the vascular system are inherited.

Managing risk for vascular disease

Some risk factors for vascular disease cannot be changed.  Other risks may be medically managed to reduce the risk that you will need a vascular surgery center Washington DC.  For example, smoking can help speed up the progression of atherosclerosis.  Quitting smoking can reduce the risk that you will someday require vascular surgery DC.  Another risk factor for conditions that can lead to vein surgery DC is diabetes.  Like smoking, diabetes speeds up the progression of atherosclerosis and the narrowing of arteries.  Your doctor can tell you the best way to manage your diabetes and lower your chances of undergoing vascular surgery Washington DC.  In some cases, diabetes can be managed with diet and exercise alone, but sometimes you doctor will also prescribe medication.

Vascular disease can affect all many vital body systems, including the respiratory system, digestive system, kidneys, and urinary system.  Contact a vascular surgery center Washington DC (such as www.medstarwashington.org) if you are at risk.

Life After Bariatric Surgery

Written By: Sara Loch

Bariatric surgery can have very successful results, with some people losing 100 or more pounds; but it is important that you have realistic expectations of how you will look, feel, and live after your weight loss surgery Washington DC.

Bariatric surgery Washington DC requires life-long changes

Bariatric surgery Washington DC is not a procedure that you have, recover from, and forget about while the pounds magically melt away.  Even with weight loss surgery DC, shedding significant pounds requires healthy eating and staying active.  Some types of surgical weight management Washington DC will limit your body’s ability to absorb nutrients, so it is especially important that you eat healthy for the rest of your life.  If your doctor does not feel that you can commit to these lifestyle changes, you will not be a candidate for bariatric surgery Washington DC.  You will also likely have to have regular checkups with your doctor to ensure that your health is not suffering due to a nutritional deficiency.

With healthy lifestyle changes, some people can lose up to 90% of their excess body weight with bariatrics and weight management DC.  However not everyone has these results, and you should talk to your doctor ahead of time about realistic expectations after your bariatric surgery Washington DC.

You still may not be happy with your appearance

If you are successful at losing a lot of weight, you may find that you are still not happy with your appearance.  When your skin has been slowly stretched over time due to weight gain then you lose a lot of weight, the skin often does not have the elasticity to snap back into place and you are left with loose, hanging skin.  These skin folds are not only unsightly, but they can cause discomfort, rashes, infection, and problems with hygiene.  Many people who have successful weight loss surgery Washington DC find that they want to have this extra skin surgically removed with a procedure called body contouring.  During this procedure, a cosmetic surgeon removes extra tissue then sews the remaining tissue back together.  It is important that you are at a stable weight before you have this surgery, because losing weight after body contouring can create more skin folds and gaining weight can damage your already weakened skin.

When to Consider Bariatric Surgery

Written By: Allison Zahorcak

Bariatric surgery represents a group of weight loss procedures that drastically improve a patient's chances of losing the weight they need to be healthy.  The procedure itself requires in-depth screening as well as post-procedure care.  Patients who are interested should begin by talking to their primary doctor about their weight and then seek out bariatrics and weight management DC once you've decided with your doctor to move forward with screening.  From this point, the treatment center of your choice will undergo a variety of different screening tests to ensure that your health is in optimal condition.

Talk to you doctor about weight loss surgery DC if:

• You have struggled to lose weight for many years now.  This means that you have not only tried diet and exercise, but it's likely that you've worked with a doctor in the past with medication to manage your weight.
• You are at risk for diabetes or other health related issues due to your weight.  Once obesity has become a threat to the very life of a person, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor about bariatric surgery DC.  In some cases, bariatric help can save a patient from developing a life-threatening disease.
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What to Expect After Weight Loss Surgery DC

Perhaps more stressful than the preparing for the procedure is the recovery process.  Despite the physically healing portion, there are many challenges that await after surgery.  In addition to a few months of physical therapy, you will also need to prepare yourself to take on an entirely new lifestyle and leave old habits behind.  Your doctor may have strict dietary requirements directly after the procedure.  Though you are bound to lose a lot of weight, it's important to consider whether or not you are ready for the responsibility.  Depending on the type of weight loss surgery DC you choose, you may even face health risks if you fail to follow up with post-surgery care.  Many people seek the help of groups as well as their close family and friends to stay consistent until they've developed a healthy lifestyle.  To learn more about weight management Washington DC, check out http://www.medstarwashington.org/. 

The Risks of A-fib and Prevention Strategies

Written By: Tony Amodeo

A-fib, or atrial fibrillation, is a type of irregular heartbeat that can exist in individuals of any age. A-fib becomes more likely as we get older. Medical studies indicate that because people are now living longer the volume of cases will continue to increase accordingly. Many people are not aware of the potential seriousness of the problem, although its presence exponentially equates to the likelihood of death from heart problems as well as stroke. For further information regarding additional heart problems and stroke you can visit A-fib Treatment Washington DC. Those who are mostly likely to be at the greatest risk for A-fib are those who have a combination of any of the following conditions:

• Over fifty years old: The likelihood for AFib increases dramatically as we age. Cases involving children are less common.
• Hypertension: Those with lengthy periods of uncontrolled blood pressure are known to be at high risk for A-fib.
• Existing heart disease: Some of these conditions include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, conditions associated with the heart valves, coronary syndromes, a history of heart attack, a family history of heart problems, and anyone who has had related surgery.
• Excessive alcohol usage: Those consuming high volumes of alcohol are putting themselves at significantly increased risk.
• Sleep-related disorders: Although a direct correlation has not been established, those with obstructive sleep apnea that begin treatment can improve their A-fib condition.
• Athletic competition: Athletes often develop the condition, resulting from sustained rapid heart rates.
• Other diseases: Those with diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and asthma are frequently determined to have A-fib.

If you think you may have atrial fibrillation, or are a likely candidate to develop the problem, it is best to detect the problem early on. Knowing and understanding the symptoms is very important. Seeking proper medical care from a specialist is highly recommended, as advancements in treating the problem are evolving. A heart-healthy lifestyle is the best means of prevention. Specific prevention strategies are as follows:

• Maintaining a daily regimen of physical activity such as running or walking to stay in shape.
• Eating a balanced diet that is low in salt, saturated and trans-fats, as well as cholesterol.
• Have your cholesterol checked and educate yourself on the sources of LDL and HDL-“the good and bad” cholesterol.
• Check your blood pressure regularly to determine if it is high.
• Avoid drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, as both can be harmful in large quantities.
• Don’t smoke cigarettes, as they have a wide range of negative effects on health.
• Maintain a healthy weight, as roughly 1/3 of those in the US are now classified as obese.
• Make efforts to reduce unnecessary stress, as constant stress leads to a multitude of health problems.

Bariatric Surgery: Adjustable Gastric Band & Biliopancreatic Diversion

Written By: Tony Amodeo

Bariatric surgery methods are designed as processes for weight loss surgery. Two of the various procedures that exist are the Adjustable Gastric Band and the Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS) Gastric Bypass methods. Here we will review both and contrast differences as well as advantages and disadvantages of them.

Adjustable Gastric Band

This process involves an inflatable band being positioned near the top of the stomach, forming two sections. A small food section resides above where the band is placed, while the remainder of the stomach is below the band. When food is ingested it settles in the now smaller stomach pouch which is formed. The individual experiences a feeling of “fullness” now by eating considerably less food. This procedure allows for flexibility in adjusting the size of the stomach pouch to optimize the benefits. To adjust the size of the pouch, the surgeon is able to fill the inflatable band with a sterile saline product, which is accessed through a point of access (or port) within the adjacent skin region. The space or size of the opening is minimized incrementally over a period by making adjustments. In this process there is no malabsorption; therefore, the food is ingested, digested and absorption occurs as normal.

Advantages:

• It limits the volume of food the stomach can hold.
• Expectations are that excess weight loss of nearly 50% is achieved.
• No incisions to the stomach or adjustments to the positioning of the intestines are needed.
• Hospital stays are typically under 24 hours--outpatient in many cases.
• The procedure can be reversed if necessary.
• There are considerably fewer complications resultant of the method.
• There is low risk for nutritional deficiencies from a lack of minerals or vitamins.

Disadvantages:

• Typically, the period of time before significant weight loss occurs is longer than with other options.
• A higher likelihood exists for inability to lose at least 50% of excessive body weight versus other options.
• Band slippage or deterioration is possible.
• This method has the highest rate of needing re-operation(s).

Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS) Gastric Bypass

A portion of the stomach is removed creating a smaller stomach pouch, and the small intestine is bypassed. The duodenum part of the small intestine is split, while the other portion is lifted to connect to the outlet of the new stomach. Approximately 75% of the small intestine is bypassed during the food-streaming process. The portion of the intestine containing bile and enzymes needed to breakdown food is reconnected further along the food stream. This method is effective for the treatment of diabetes.

Advantages:

• Usually 60-70% excess weight loss is typical.
• Patient is able to eat closer to normal volumes.
• Fat absorption is dramatically reduced.

Disadvantages:

• The method has relatively high rates of complications.
• It may require longer than average hospital stays.
• It has higher potential for nutritional deficiencies.
• It requires a more restrictive set of dietary and supplemental requirements.

Vascular Surgery for Varicose Veins

Written By: Allison Zahorcak

Vascular surgery can be an option for those looking to amend their varicose veins. Varicose veins are veins that become twisted and often appear to the naked eye just under the surface of the skin.  Though this condition is fairly common amongst Americans, some people can suffer moderate pain and blood clots from veins that have become engorged.

Generally speaking, varicose veins that are not harmful are commonly referred to as spider veins.  Some patients may choose to seek vascular surgery DC to change the physical appearance, but widely only those who face health complications are actively seeking Vascular Surgery Hospitals Washington DC.

Luckily, most vein surgery DC has become a minimally invasive process. Patients do not have to expect a long recovery time and in the majority of cases, are home the same day the procedure was performed.  After surgery, physical activity and stretching is highly encouraged.  In order to prevent future veins from the same distress, it's a good idea to improve muscle tone and overall lifestyle.  As vein issues are often linked to heart disease and issues within the circulatory system, taking steps to drastically improve your health is the best way to ensure a healthy future.

What to Look for in Vascular Surgery Hospitals Washington DC

If you decided on vein surgery DC for health or aesthetic reasons, it's a good idea to look for hospitals that can offer you an exceptional treatment plan.  In addition to a multidisciplinary approach to your care, your Vascular Surgery Center Washington DC should be able to offer a modern approach as well as modern medical technology. Make a list of the qualities that are most important to you and make sure that the surgery center you choose can provide all of them.  Though these procedures are minimally invasive, they still require the skill of a doctor.  Which means in some respects, these procedures should not be taken entirely easy. As with any medical care, you want to make sure that your unique needs are addressed.

To learn more about vascular surgery DC or to find a doctor in your area, visit: http://www.medstarwashington.org/.

When to Consider Bariatric Surgery

Written By: Rachael Kaine

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Even though you may be familiar with the term weight loss surgery and understand that it is done to help people lose and keep weight off, not everyone is familiar with everything that this type of procedure entails. There are different kinds of this type of surgery, but the most common is the gastric bypass surgery that allows the stomach to become smaller, giving it the ability to hold less food and for the body to digest it more quickly, resulting in a shorter amount of time for things to simply sit in the stomach. This smaller space means that patients will be able to eat less, feel full, and eventually lose the weight that they desire through changes in their routines and habits. Weight loss surgery Washington DC is not the first option that many people choose to take, but it is often the only one that is truly beneficial and able to help people manage their weight before it gets to be too late.

Should I Consider Bariatric Surgery?

The first thing that you should know is that in many cases, there is a slight risk to having bariatric surgery, simply because it requires being totally put under. This is usually not a big deal, but for those who are severely overweight, it can put a strain on the heart and other organs, resulting in more risk than for a very healthy individual.

Bariatric surgery DC is a great choice for people because the doctors and surgeons available are some of the best in the country, ready to provide their services to those in need, but the real question is whether or not you should even get a consult from somewhere like http://www.medstarwashington.org/.

This surgery is mainly for those who have tried other methods to lose weight and improve their health without success. These include increasing exercise, mobility and self reliance as well as changing the diet and not giving into impulse meals or snacks. For those that are to the point where they would even consider weight loss surgery, many things need to be looked at including willingness to change, the ability to stick with the changes and overall health. This surgery cannot be performed on an individual that has many currently present health issues, so doctors will be thorough in the screening.

On the other hand, health issues may necessitate bariatric surgery Washington DC. These include increased strain on or the failing of organs like the heart and lungs, an inability to walk or move around, and even skin issues. Experiencing any of these things means that it is time to make a change, and seeking out information about this type of surgical procedure is a logical first step.

A-fib Explained

What Is A-fib and What Can it Lead To?

The most common of all heart conditions resulting in an abnormal rhythm, atrial fibrillation or a-fib happens when the upper chambers of the heart twitch or quiver too quickly, resulting in a heartbeat that is irregular. While some patients do not experience symptoms, or their symptoms are mild, other patients experience symptoms like racing heartbeat, feeling sick or exhausted, having shortness of breath, feeling dizzy, lightheaded or even fainting, and experiencing heart palpitations. This condition itself is not life threatening, but if left untreated, a-fib can lead to many more complicated and serious issues. These include an increase in the likelihood of blood clots, the potential for strokes going up, the heart’s muscles becoming weak and thus unable to pump properly, potential eventual heart failure and permanent disabilities.

Why Does A-fib Occur?

There are many different types of risk factors for developing this condition, and needing A-fib treatment Washington DC. These factors are not the same for everyone, and recent studies have shown that women are more likely to suffer from this condition than men, but it’s a good idea to be prepared and understand that if you have or experience any of the following, you should consider that you’re more likely to develop atrial fibrillation over time.

- This condition impacts the lives of people that are typically over 60 years of age.

- Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease and chronic lung disease raise the likelihood that you’ll experience a-fib at some point in your life.

- Prior heart attacks and coronary artery disease along with other heart conditions like having open heart surgery, untreated atrial fluttering, or even structural heart disease also compound the issue, and can lead to an onset of a-fib.

- Serious illnesses and infections make it more likely that individuals will develop this condition.

- If you excessively consume alcohol or drugs, it’s likely that your heart will be stressed and is more likely to beat out of regular rhythm.

- Obesity is one of the newest likely causes of atrial fibrillation, as being overweight will put extra stress on the body, and an unhealthy diet can cause arteries to narrow and the blood to thicken, with extra pressure put on the heart to pump blood through a larger area.

Since so many different things can cause the condition to manifest, it’s important to understand the risks and options, making it necessary to consult with someone that provides A-fib treatment Washington DC so that you can get back into good health and begin making the right choices for your personal health.

Steps to Speed Up Recovery After Hip Surgery

Written by: Theanna Lynn

Hip replacement surgery is a procedure in which a doctor surgically removes a painful hip joint and replaces it with an artificial joint, often made from metal and plastic components. Hip surgery is often the last option for patients with severe arthritis. A full recovery from hip surgery will take many months, but there are ways to ease the recovery process.

Bank Your Own Blood

Prior to undergoing surgery that may require a transfusion, you can bank your own blood. The likelihood of receiving blood that is the wrong type or contaminated in some way is minimal, but it can still contain foreign pathogens that you have not been exposed to before. The more blood someone receives, the higher the risk of infection. In studies where individuals received transfusions of their own blood, they had the lowest rates of infection.

Reduce Swelling

Swelling is the body's natural response to inflammation and trauma. Lessen swelling through:

• Gentle movement
• Rest
• Icing
• Avoid heat packs on swollen areas
• Swelling will dissipate on its own over time as your body heals

Post Operative Exercises

Regular exercises to restore your normal hip motion and strength and a gradual return to everyday activities are important for your full recovery. Your orthopaedic surgeon may recommend that you exercise 20 to 30 minutes 2 or 3 times a day during your early recovery. Exercises are important because they:

• Increase circulation to your legs and feet to prevent blood clots (a risk after certain surgical procedures)
• Increase hip mobility and range of motion
• Strengthen muscles
• Speed recovery
• Reduce postoperative pain

You may begin these exercises in the recovery room shortly after surgery. Different exercises may be recommended at different phases of recovery. For example, you may not be able to stand on your own right away after surgery. As your strength and mobility increase, you will be able to graduate to standing with assistance, then without assistance. Over time your mobility will increase to include walking and other movement with increased demands on your replaced hip with less and less assistance. These exercises may push your limits at times but they are important to ensuring you make a full recovery. Please consult your physician before beginning any exercise program.

Take Your Vitamins

Speak to your physician about adding vitamins or supplements to your routine (before or after surgery) that could improve your health or your recovery time. Research studies have shown that taking as little as 250 mg a day of vitamin C after surgery cuts the healing time in half.

Soak Up Some Rays

After your surgery, try to get a bed next to a window that lets in the most sunlight, aiming for at least 15-20 minutes of sun a day. Moderate exposure to sunlight improves health and boosts vitamin D levels, and research shows that exposure to sunlight after surgery can help make the recovery process less painful.

Recovering from surgery is never fun or pain free, but following these tips can help make the recovery process quicker and smoother.

 

Bariatric Surgery May Reduce Bullying

Written by: Jessica George

Unfortunately, many children and adolescents are all too aware of the effects of bullying due to personal experience. Many instances of bullying tends to stem from an individual's appearances, quite often including weight.

Being Bullied Over Weight

Just a few years ago, roughly 30 percent of sixth grade girls were bullied because of their weight. Though this number was lower for boys, it was only about 6 percent lower. Sadly, weight has become such a controversial topic in society that bullying has become even more prevalent. Society tends to set standards for how we should look, and those who do not conform to such appearances are often put down because of it.

It used to be that children who were bullied at school had a reprieve from their torment when they were at home. However, in today's digital age, bullying tends to follow them wherever they go. Whether through texting or social media, children and adolescents often have a difficult time escaping the never ending nasty comments.

Many children and adolescents who are overweight, even if only slightly, are pushed to the brink through bullying. They often feel helpless to either be confident about their bodies or to get to a healthier weight. Studies have shown that the third most common cause of death among children and adolescents is suicide. Had many of these individuals not been bullied, they may very well still be alive.

Helping a Bullied Child or Adolescent

If you are concerned about a child or adolescent being bullied, there are some things you can do to help.

• Reassure them that there is nothing wrong with them. Compliments can make them feel a lot better when they are down.

• Talk to the child and listen to their fears and feelings. Sometimes talking things out can make a huge difference.

• Take your child to the doctor to determine if he or she really is overweight.

• If your child is clinically overweight, help him or her to make lifestyle changes that will promote weight loss, such as healthier eating or more exercise.

• If your child continuously works toward losing weight but is making little to no progress, you may consider bariatric surgery later on. While bariatric surgery Washington DC may not be a good option for young children or adolescents, it may help as they begin to become young adults in leading a healthier lifestyle and reducing the bullying they receive.

Who Needs Vascular Surgery?

Written by: Allison Zahorcak

The term vascular surgery covers a wide variety of illnesses and related conditions that affect the veins, arteries, and capillaries throughout the human body.  From rare conditions to more common occurrences, the vascular system has a multitude of reasons why one may need vascular surgery Washington DC.   Typically, your doctor will try to address vascular conditions with changes in lifestyle.  This may include diet, exercise, or physical therapy.  However, a doctor may insist upon Vascular Surgery Washington DC if your veins or arteries are blocked or swollen to the point of restricting blood and oxygen.

Though there are many more conditions that could lead to vascular surgery DC, the following conditions represent the majority of vascular conditions reported:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Aortic dissection
• Carotid artery disease
• Claudication
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Diabetic foot
• Lymphedema
• Mesenteric ischemia
• Peripheral aneurysm
• Peripheral artery disease
• Renal artery disease
• Thoracic aortic aneurysm
• Varicose veins
• Venous insufficiency

If you or a loved one is looking for a Vascular Surgery Center Washington DC, make sure you look for doctors that can offer a multidisciplinary approach to your treatment plan.   In addition to modern technology and various treatment plans, these doctors should be people you can trust to oversee your health pre and post surgery.   Those undergoing treatment will need to arrange for transportation as well as time off work.

Vascular Surgery for Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are a fairly common condition where veins become twisted and swollen just underneath the surface of the skin.   Referred to widely as spider veins, these swollen veins rarely cause major health problems for patients.  Though ulcers and blockages are possible, your doctor will typically recommend a lifestyle change such as diet or exercise before recommending a procedure.   The majority of patients will seek vascular surgery DC to improve the look of their legs or prevent future agitations or issues from occurring.  In many ways, treatment for varicose veins is the most common vascular surgery Washington DC.  Talk to your doctor if you or a loved is looking to treat spider veins.

Remember, vascular surgery DC is still a serious procedure.  Make sure you find a Vascular Surgery Center Washington DC you can trust with your health.  To learn more about surgery centers in your area, visit: http://www.medstarwashington.org/

Exercise and Bariatric Surgery for Weight Loss

Written by: Jessica George

Are you ready to lose weight but aren't sure exactly how to go about doing so? Along with a healthier diet, exercise can be very beneficial in helping you to lose weight. However, some types of exercise are much more efficient than others.

Best Types of Exercise for Weight Loss

Some of the best exercises for weight loss may seem so simple, yet they are often effective. If you haven't tried any of the following, give them a chance!

• Walking - What could be easier than walking? While many other exercises may leave you with injuries such as a pulled muscle, walking tends to put a little less stress on your ligaments. You can walk anywhere you want, without worrying about a gym membership or buying equipment.

• Running - While it may not be as easy as walking, running is also a great way to burn off some of those unwanted calories. Not only does running burn fat, but it also works to make your bones stronger and keeps your heart in shape to help prevent certain heart conditions.

• Swimming - Without being too hard on your body, swimming helps to strengthen and tone those muscles, effectively working all or most of your body. Plus, it may be great way to enjoy the sun but also cool off on a hot day!

• Bicycling - Riding your bike can be a great way to pedal off some stress or enjoy fresh air and sunshine. However, it is also a great way to burn fat. Bicycling tends to be a bit easier on your body than exercises like running because your feet and knees are not stressed due to impact with the ground.

• Jumping rope - While it may sound like a game enjoyed by kids, jumping rope can help you get in shape, too! Not only does it help to burn calories, but it also helps to strengthen and tone muscles and bones.

These exercises can be employed in an attempt to lose weight or to keep weight off. If you are having difficulty losing weight in the first place, you may want to consider bariatric surgery. You can then utilize these exercises after bariatric surgery Washington DC to keep the weight off.

Bariatric Surgery Decisions

Written By: Rachael Kaine

With reality TV shows following patients that receive weight loss surgeries, the call to be “fit” and active by celebrities and renowned doctors and an increased call to be healthy flooding the news, people are considering surgical options more and more, right along with fad diets, cleanses and “fix” type programs. Weight loss surgery DC is no different than the procedures that are performed across the country (and the rest of the world) but is it the right choice for you?

Bariatric Surgery Explained

This type of surgery is a permanent solution for those that overeat, cannot properly diet or exercise, and have the desire to change their lifestyle. This is a solution that will require work, however - it is not a quick fix, and seeing results will take time. The surgery itself is completed in one day, and the changes and reactions must be immediate. The idea behind the surgery is to decrease the size of the stomach, which will keep patients from eating too much and eventually cause them to lose weight.This weight loss is meant to take stress off of the body, allowing organs to function better and for the patient to become “healthier” as time passes and they are able to exercise and get around more. Many people that choose bariatric surgery are at the end of the line, and feel as if they have no other options; this is not a first choice option, typically it will be the last thing that health care professionals recommend due to the length and severity of the recovery period.

What Does Bariatric Surgery Mean For Me?

First, it is important to know whether or not you are a candidate for weight loss surgery Washington DC. The regulations may vary slightly depending on the location you visit, but visiting
http://www.medstarwashington.org/our-services/bariatrics-and-weight-management/treatments/am-i-a-candidate-for-bariatric-surgery/ will let you know what the criteria are for the nation’s capital.

If approved for the surgery, you’ll need to immediately begin doing things differently, starting with showing that you can commit to a new diet and lifestyle. The surgery will mean many changes in habits from drinking more water, fewer sugary and carbonated drinks, eliminating fried food and focusing on nutrition rather than eating for enjoyment. This isn’t to say that you cannot eat the things you enjoy, but that you’ll need to find new ways to cook and consume your favorite foods. You’ll need to permanently commit to the “new you”, as you will have to keep on top of it for the rest of your life.

Many patients notice that the weight comes off very quickly in the few months after having the surgery, but changes and progress will be made continuously as long as you are willing to work for them.

The Importance of Treating A-fib

Written By: Rachael Kaine

Medications For Treating A-fib

If you’ve been diagnosed with a-fib and have started a treatment regimen, you will need to be sure to follow the suggested medication schedule in order to best address the issue and ensure proper recovery and better health. Medications are provided and prescribed for a specific purpose, and interrupting the schedule or simply not paying attention to what you are told to do can have and adverse impact on your health. For atrial fibrillation treatment DC, many different medications may be prescribed, each meant to do something specific to help you out.

Surprisingly, many of these medications are meant to address the potential complications like blood clots that can occur as the result of atrial fibrillation. These include blood thinners, blood pressure medication and even medication meant to help control stress. There are options that also are meant to help control the heart’s function like rate and rhythm controllers. Included in this list are beta blockers and calcium, sodium and potassium blockers, each of which does something different by controlling a different aspect of the heart’s function.

A-fib Prognosis

Not all atrial fibrillation is the same because each individual’s body is different. The ultimate goal of a-fib treatment Washington DC is to keep the heart’s rhythm as normal as possible for as long as possible. This needs to occur in order to keep people from developing conditions as a result of the diagnosis, and succumbing to a new way of life that may include constant fatigue, dizziness, chest pain and an inability exercise, socialize or even sleep properly.

Since this condition increases the likelihood for strokes and eventual heart failure, it is important to take it seriously and to listen to the advice of medical professionals. Even if the a-fib is the only condition that you’re suffering from, it should carefully be managed in order to keep this true, and to keep the condition from progressing to an even more serious state.

Careful communication with your doctors and other people that have received the same diagnosis can make you much more comfortable with your own health, and help you to understand what you need to do - and how you can do it. This is not a death sentence, as many patients that have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation have been able to continue living normal and healthy lives, and even more still have been able to make slight adjustments to their lifestyles to accommodate their new medication schedules and expectations without much trouble. This is a condition that people may live with for years until it becomes just another facet of their daily lives.