Health & Wellness

Boomer Edition | 10th Annual | 2014

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A Little Medical Maintenance Can Add Oomph To Your Retirement Years Thyroid Disorders Neck Gland Can Wreak Havoc If surgery is needed, both Volin and Glass specialize in laparoscopic approaches with the da Vinci robotic system, which dramatically shortens hospital stays, complications and recovery times. One advanced procedure called a sacropoplexy, during which mesh is used to hold the affected organs in their correct position, has a 90-percent success rate at 10- to 15-years post-op, and women report dramatic increases in quality of life, the doctors say. Dr. Michael Glass, a urologist with Sky Ridge Medical Center, recently earned the hospital an "epicenter" designation for the da Vinci Surgical System. The distinguished honor recognizes Glass as a top da Vinci surgeon in the country and makes Sky Ridge a training ground for surgeons from around the world to learn the use of the robotic system. Dr. Kimberly Vanderveen of Rose Medical Center says thyroid issues commonly plague patients after age 50. Most people brush the signs off as normal aging: gaining weight; losing energy; repeatedly searching the house for the keys. But in many cases, particularly in women past age 50, a small, butterfly-shaped gland that polices metabolism causes the chaos. "It's often found incidentally, meaning we were looking for something else," Dr. Heather Hartshorn of the North Suburban Medical Center says of thyroid disorder. Frequently, a simple blood test, which should be done during annual exams, and medication can resolve the problem. "It's not uncommon for the thyroid gland to begin losing its strength after age 50," says Dr. Kimberly Vanderveen, with Rose Medical Center. Although thyroid disorders strike men, too, experts suspect a hormone connection leaves women disproportionately affected. If the gland, which wraps around the windpipe just below the "Adam's apple," releases too little hormone (hypothyroidism), fatigue, weight gain, memory loss, cold intolerance, hair loss, dry skin and brittle nails can ensue, Hartshorn says. If it releases too much hormone (hyperthyroidism), anxiety, racing heart, hot flashes and weight loss are common symptoms. Sometimes, a nodule or lump in the gland can cause the problems and is frequently benign, but thyroid cancer would have to be ruled out, Hartshorn says. Diagnosis and treatment have come a long way, and the bottom line is people shouldn't live with these symptoms, Vanderveen says. "If someone isn't feeling well, they should go in for an exam." Are you or a loved one in need of a doctor? We're here to help. A HealthONE representative can answer your questions and help you find the right physician, close to home. Call us today 303.575.0055 Health and Wellness Magazine • 17

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