Author: Laura Mosely

Congenital anomalies occur during intrauterine life and can be identified at birth or later in life. Examples of the most common congenital disabilities include clubfoot, cleft palate, and Down syndrome. Most of these congenital disabilities affect a child’s facial appearance and function. These congenital anomalies and other acquired facial trauma may benefit from Portland, OR pediatric plastic and craniofacial surgery, which focuses on reconstructive and aesthetic improvements of a child’s appearance. The main goal of pediatric plastic surgery is to improve function and quality of life for children with congenital or acquired anomalies.

What congenital disabilities require pediatric plastic surgery?

Congenital breast malformation

Congenital breast malformation occurs when abnormal development of either the chest or breast, leading to asymmetry. These malformations can be minor such that they go unrecognized, but others are severe and cause functional, psychological, and aesthetic concerns. A child with a severe form of malformation can have problems breastfeeding in the future. Specialists can notice this defect at birth, but sometimes it becomes evident during puberty as the breast matures.

If the malformation is due to excess breast tissue, treatment involves excising the tissue in its entirety. However, sometimes the problem is underdevelopment or absence of breast tissue. In such cases, treatment consists of transferring fat into the affected breast. A child may have to wait until the other breast is fully developed for the reconstructed breast to match the other breast.

Congenital hand anomalies

• Polydactyly

It is the most common congenital hand anomaly, usually present as an extra finger next to the pinky finger. The additional growth can have a thin or substantial base, both of which require excision. Previously, hospital nurseries used to tie a thread around the bottom, which would eventually cause the little finger to fall off. However, this removal method can lead to irregularity, and the treated area may become sensitive because the extra finger also carries a sensory nerve. A pediatric plastic surgeon performs a complete excision at the office and uses numbing cream to reduce pain and discomfort. Children with extra thumb may require to go to the operating room since the thumb tends to be fused to the joint or bone, making it harder to remove.

Other forms of hand anomalies include syndactyly and hypoplastic thumb. The former occurs as two adjacent fingers without the usual space. For mild syndactyly, skin exists as a bridge between the two fingers. However, the severe form of this anomaly happens when other structures such as bones, tendons, and blood vessels are involved. Plastic surgeons recommend surgery between the ages of 12 to 18 months when the hand has grown but before a child develops fine motor control and manipulation. Children require an entire cast after surgery to prevent disrupting the repair.

 The hypoplastic thumb is highly variable in that some children hardly have noticeable differences, whereas others lack a thumb entirely. Treatment depends on the severity or extent of the deformity. If the thumb is tiny, the surgeon deepens the space between it and the index finger. Children who do not have noticeable differences may not need surgery.

If you have a child with a deformity, consult with your pediatric surgeon at PNW Plastic Surgery to know if they can benefit from surgery.

Menopause is a process that begins when a woman stops having the menstrual cycle for twelve consecutive months. It is not a health problem and happens in your forties or fifties. People will have different experiences within this period, and you may have symptoms such as vaginal dryness, mood changes, hot flashes, and weight gain. It would help if you did not suffer from symptoms of Jackson Heights menopause when there are various effective solutions for relief. However, there are many myths and misconceptions of menopause, and below are some.

Menopause ruins your sexual life

Menopause does not make your sex drive disappear. Each woman has different effects of menopause. It leads to a decrease in sexual desire in some women and increases sex craving in others. Some women might experience vaginal dryness leading to painful sex, but there are treatment options. There are also treatment methods if you lack sexual drive.

Your body stops producing hormones at menopause

Hormones are constantly produced and travel throughout your body for your entire life. Your ovaries stop producing estrogen in menopause, but they still have testosterone which converts into estrogen in body fat. Estrogen production reduces as you age but varies in each woman.

Menopause is awful

Menopause is a natural phase in your womanhood, just like pregnancy or menstruation. You can have a wonderful feeling during menopause, like living an active life or enjoying the free menstruation phase, which is a distractive process in some women. You can also have distracting effects, of which there are treatment options available.

Menopause is the gateway to weight gain

Hormones fluctuate during menopause, and this causes extra pounds to settle around the middle part of your body. Not everyone experiences weight gain. The fact is, it can be challenging to control weight gain at a certain age of menopause. Maintaining a healthy diet, good lifestyle habits, and routine exercises can help you lose weight during menopause.

You can still get menstruation after menopause

It is not menopause until you go twelve consecutive months without menstrual flow. If you get periods in less than twelve months, that is perimenopause, and there are chances you can get pregnant. You will not get pregnant when you miss your periods for twelve months consecutively.

Having hormone replacement is dangerous during menopause

Hormone replacement therapy is meant to supplement the decreasing hormones in your body. The process is only unsafe when specialists use synthetic hormones, and the treatment is done by an untrained professional or not appropriately managed by your doctor. Research has proved successful results of hormone replacement with minimal complications.

You do not require to use contraceptives after menopause

Although you cannot get pregnant when menopause begins, it does not mean you should not use contraceptives. There are many sexually transmitted infections, and it is advisable to use contraceptives such as condoms to prevent these diseases.

Not everyone will experience extreme menopause changes. You should not just sit there depressed by menopause while your doctor can help you manage the symptoms. Schedule an appointment at Raveco Medical to learn more about menopause and get treatment of your menopausal symptoms.

Experiencing pain in your TMJ joint is common, but it can decrease your life’s quality by making even the simplest tasks like eating and speaking difficult. But do not worry. Medical experts like Dr. Robert Garelick can help ease your discomfort and restore your life’s quality. Various reasons could cause stiffness, persistent pain, swelling, and popping, including lifestyle choices, arthritis issues, or trauma to the jaw. Since understanding the cause of your condition is a step towards managing the complication, here are five common reasons your TMJ joint is painting.

Poor Postures

Poor Eating Habits

The TMJ joint is responsible for the opening and closing of your mouth. Therefore, it plays a vital role in tasks like eating and speaking. When you are ford of eating too hard, challenging, and chewy foods, it could be the beginning of your pain or escalate your symptoms if you are already enduring TMJ disorder. Such eating habits cause muscle fatigue and pressure, which can cause painful flair-ups. Therefore, check on your habits and avoid any exaggerated habits. If you already have a TMJ disorder, please stick to soft foods and take small bites at a time. Also, avoid chewing gum or anything that will keep you chewing for a long time.

Stress

Stress has become one of the most adverse effects on the body. It is common to experience TMJ problems due to stressful situations as your body’s natural response. When you experience increased muscle tension, especially on your shoulders, neck, and head, you can experience painful swelling in your TMJ joint. Also, increased stress levels can cause grinding or clenching of teeth, and lack of sleep can worsen TMJ disorder symptoms.

Hormonal Changes

You might not know this, but you can experience inflammation in the joints, including the jaw joint, due to a sudden increase or decrease in your hormonal levels. Additionally, you can experience swelling and pain in the affected joints. This condition is more common in women than men, mainly due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone in their bodies throughout adulthood.

Dehydration

Dehydration affects your joints, including the TMJ joint. Remember that the joints require sufficient hydration to maintain lubrication and function. Therefore, estimate how much water you take daily to see if this is a possible reason for your painful joint. Without adequate water, you will experience inflammation and pain in your muscles and joints, including your TMJ joint. Ensure you consult your doctor on the right amount of water you should take daily.

The list of possible causes of TMJ pain is long. Therefore, the best way to understand the real deal with your joint is to get an accurate diagnosis from your doctor. Reach out to the TMJ pain specialist at Chase Dental Sleep Care for help. You can also get in touch through an online appointment.

A colposcopy is a procedure your Miami, FL doctor may recommend if they see an abnormal area on your cervix during a Pap smear. It also examines other parts such as the vulva and vagina for any signs of diseases or infection. The goal of colposcopy is to determine whether the abnormal cells are precancerous or not. Here are four ways to prepare for a Miami advanced colposcopy procedure so that you can have the best possible experience.

• Avoid Vaginal Medications

If you are taking any vaginal medications, such as a cream, suppository, or ring, your doctor may need to biopsy the abnormal cells. This is because the drugs can affect how the colposcope views the area. The main medications to avoid are vaginal creams, suppositories, and rings.

• Refrain from Douching

Douching changes the natural pH of the vagina, and it can also wash away the healthy bacteria that live in the vagina. This increases your risk for a vaginal infection. It can also damage the delicate tissues of the vagina. Besides, it makes it challenging to see abnormalities or lesions during a colposcopy.

• Avoid Vaginal Sexual Activity

Sexual activity can increase the risk of spreading any abnormal cells present. If you are sexually active, you will need to abstain from sex for at least 48 hours before your colposcopy. Inserting anything, such as a tampon or a finger, into your vagina can increase the risk of spreading any abnormal cells.

Consultations with your specialist are significant to have the best colposcopy because specialists have more knowledge about colposcopy. They may be able to provide you with some advice on preparing for the colposcopy and what to expect. They can also answer any questions that you may have about the procedure. Additionally, they can identify any potential risks that you may face and provide you with the necessary precautions to take.

• Don’t Schedule an Appointment During Your Period Week

If you’re able to avoid having your colposcopy during your period week, it’s ideal. The blood can obscure abnormal cells on the cervix and make it difficult to see them. You can also talk with your doctor to get their advice on the best time for you to have the colposcopy.

• Learn What to Expect During the Procedure

It’s important to know what to expect during a colposcopy. This will help you to feel more calm and relaxed during the procedure. You can expect to be in the exam room for about 30 minutes. The doctor will first look at your cervix with a speculum.

They will then take a sample of the cells from your cervix using a small brush or a scraping tool. You may experience some cramping during the procedure. Finally, the doctor will inspect your vagina and vulva for any other abnormalities.

By preparing for colposcopy in advance, you can ensure a positive experience. Knowing what to expect will help you feel more relaxed and calm during the procedure.

Colposcopy is a procedure that your doctor may recommend if they see an abnormal area on your cervix during a Pap smear. The goal of colposcopy is to determine whether the abnormal cells are precancerous or not. It’s good to learn ways you can prepare for one to have the best possible experience. You will want to avoid vaginal medications, douching, sexual activity before the procedure.

Menstrual periods are usually accompanied by cramps or pain and discomfort in your lower abdomen in areas around the uterus. Complications during your menstrual periods occur occasionally. These problems can now be quickly attended to due to the development of specialized women’s centers that deal specifically with these problems and gynecology in general. If you are going through McDonough endometrial ablation, continue going through the article to be better informed.

What is Endometrial Ablation?

This is an operation done to get rid of your uterine lining surgically. This is typically aimed at reducing the amount of menstrual flow. In some cases, the flow may end ultimately.

This procedure does not require the application of incisions. Thin tools are inserted into your cervix by your doctor. These tools are different depending on the ablation method. These methods use heated fluids, extreme cold, high-energy radio frequencies, or microwave energy.

Some endometrial ablation methods are done in the operating room, while others can be done in your doctor’s office. The most suitable endometrial ablation method is determined by factors such as the condition and size of your uterus.

Why is Endometrial Ablation done?

This procedure is done to treat excessive menstrual loss of blood. Other reasons to perform it include:

• Bleeding that goes on for more than seven days
• Hefty periods, i.e., a tampon or pad soaking in at least every two hours.
• Diseases that may be caused by losing a lot of blood like anemia

The first course of treatment for this condition is the application of intrauterine devices or medication prescriptions. Endometrial ablation is thus recommended when these other treatments are unapplicable to you or prove ineffective.

Endometrial ablation is not typically suitable for women who have undergone menopause or women who have:

• An increased risk of uterine cancer or having uterine cancer itself
• Specific uterine abnormalities
• An ongoing pelvic infection

Endometrial ablation may undergo rare procedural complications such as:

• Cold or heat damaging organs close by
• Bleeding, pain, or infection
• The uterine wall being punctured by the surgical instruments

Despite undergoing endometrial ablation, you can still get pregnant. However, the pregnancy may be of high risk to the baby and mother. Miscarriage may occur due to:

• The pregnancy occurring in the cervix or fallopian tube rather than the uterus leads to ectopic pregnancy
• Damage caused to the uterine lining that holds the growing embryo

Preparation of the procedure may involve:

• Do cancer checks
• Perform pregnancy checks
• IUD removal
• Going through your anesthesia options with your doctor
• Ensure your endometrium is thin to increase the success chances of the operation

The endometrial ablation procedure uses different methods to get rid of the endometrium, which includes:

• Cryoablation uses extreme cold to freeze and get rid of the endometrium
• Electrosurgery
• Free-flowing hot fluid
• Microwaves from a slender wand
• Heated balloon
• Radiofrequency

It is important to be aware that endometrial ablation is not a procedure for sterilization, so pregnancy is possible. Contraception should still be taken to avoid pregnancy. Continous heavy menstrual flow may lead to further complications; thus, visit our website or call our offices in McDonough, GA, to book a consultation.

The world of cosmetic surgery and fillers is not new by any means. Dermal fillers have been used for years to help people in Rockville Centre, New York, with a range of problems, from wrinkles and lines on the face to drooping eyebrows or smile lines at the corners of the mouth. And while it seems that this industry has grown exponentially in recent years, there are still misconceptions about what dermal fillers can do. Here’s some information on how they work and which problems they solve. Start by finding a reliable center for dermal filler in Rockville Centre, NY.

• Sagging Jawline

The jawline, also known as the lower face, can become sagged and droop with age. Dermal fillers have been used to restore a more youthful look by filling in wrinkles that form around the mouth, chin, or even across the jawbone. The procedure is done with no surgery and just simple injections along muscle lines to plump up the skin.

• Smile Lines

At the corners of your mouth, smile lines or ‘lipstick bleed’ can form as you age; this is because the fat in these areas has moved down towards your lower face and neck. Fillers are injected along the area to restore fullness and eliminate any lines simultaneously.

• Wrinkles

As anyone familiar with dermal fillers will know, the most common use of this treatment is to erase wrinkles that have started to form around the face. These ‘frown lines’ between the eyebrows, along the forehead, and across the cheeks are all treatable with dermal fillers, while some people even opt for line erasing treatments along the upper lip.

• Thin Lips

Since dermal fillers are often used to reduce wrinkles around the mouth, it’s easy to think of this treatment as an anti-aging process. But many men and women embark on dermal filler treatments because they want their lips to appear fuller and more supple. Whatever the reason, dermal fillers injectable treatments can increase volume and rejuvenate lips, so they look young and full of life once again.

• Undefined Cheeks

The area under the cheek can be filled with dermal fillers to form a more defined cheekbone that won’t sag or droop. This procedure is done subtly, so no one will even know you have had anything done, while results are immediate and comforting for people looking for a non-surgical solution to this problem.

• Nasolabial folds

Dermal fillers can also treat nasolabial folds, which are the lines that run from the side of the nose to the corner of the mouth. These lines can become more pronounced as you age, but dermal fillers can help to plump up the skin and reduce their appearance.

• Heavy Under-Eye Bags

Heavy under-eye bags can make you look tired and older than you are. Dermal fillers can be injected into the area under your eyes to reduce the appearance of these bags. The procedure is simple and takes only a few minutes to complete. You will see a noticeable difference in the appearance of your under-eye bags immediately after the treatment.

Dermal fillers can be crucial for many cosmetic procedures, including reducing wrinkles and lines around the mouth. The process utilizes injections that plump up the skin and eliminate wrinkles or other signs of aging. Dermal filler treatments have been popular for years. Still, recently they seem to have grown exponentially in popularity because people are looking for more natural ways to fight off the effects of time on their appearance.

Quality sleep is vital in helping the body function properly. It is crucial to have a full night’s sleep for our memory, mental health, and stress levels to remain balanced. Lack of quality sleep can cause many problems such as lower energy levels, increased risk of heart disease, decreased immune system functioning, weight gain, or even weight loss due to metabolism changes. This is the reality some people have to live in. Sleep disorders are health disorders that cause people to have abnormal sleep habits, leading them to sleep deprivation. Sleep disorders are a severe issue, and you need to see a specialist in sleep disorders in San Diego if you have one. Here, we look at some of the most common sleep disorders.

• Insomnia

Insomnia is an often misunderstood disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep. The main insomnia symptoms include intense feelings of fear, hypervigilance, physical exhaustion, and daytime sleepiness. Approximately 10% to 20% of adults in the United States suffer from chronic insomnia where it can come about due to stress, depression, hazardous work shifts, or the use of caffeine and other stimulants.

• Bruxism

Bruxism is a sleep disorder that causes patients to involuntarily grind or clench their teeth during their sleep. It is estimated that 1 in every two adults suffers from bruxism at some point in their lives, resulting from stress, anxiety, or alcohol use. Bruxism can lead to an increased risk of dental damage due to excessive tooth wear and headaches caused by neck soreness.

• Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that causes people to uncontrollably fall asleep during the day even with enough sleep at night. It affects 0.02 % to 0.18% of the population, where different symptoms include sleep paralysis, hallucinations, and diminished ability to move while falling asleep or waking up. Usually, people suffering from narcolepsy experience extreme drowsiness during the day to the point of falling asleep at any given time. There are different kinds of narcolepsy, with cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hypnagogic hallucinations being more common.

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea(OSA)

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition that causes breathing to temporarily stop during sleep. It occurs due to the airway becoming blocked, causing the sufferer to unknowingly wake up multiple times to resume breathing. This interruption causes a lack of deep sleep and oxygen intake, making the patient irritable or excessively tired. It is estimated that 4% to 5% of adults suffer from OSA, with it being more common in men and those who are overweight or obese.

• Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless leg syndrome is a condition that causes the sufferer to have restless sensations in their legs or arms at night. It can come with the urge to constantly move one’s legs, movement of the legs while sleeping, and pain in the limbs at night. Those who suffer from this disorder may lose sleep because they usually report feeling exhausted during the day. Restless leg syndrome can be caused by hormonal changes, iron deficiency, kidney disorders, and sleep deprivation.

In summary, lack of quality sleep can cause many problems for the sufferers where medical treatment is usually needed. You must get assessed by a doctor if you suspect you suffer from any of these disorders above.

Hemorrhoids are a common and embarrassing ailment, with an estimated 50% of adults in the United States being affected by them at some point in their lives. In Lima, Ohio, specialists are helping people get over the condition. Hemorrhoids can cause pain, discomfort, itching, swelling, or bleeding. They often go away on their own after a few days, but if you have symptoms for more than two weeks, it is time to visit your center for internal medicine in Lima, OH. Let’s cover how to avoid hemorrhoids and what causes them, so you don’t have to suffer from this condition again.

• Fill Up on Fiber

One of the simplest ways to avoid hemorrhoids is to eat a high-fiber diet. Fiber helps keep your stool soft and easy to pass, which reduces the chances of straining and developing hemorrhoids. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

Fiber is essential because it helps keep your bowel movements regular. When you don’t get enough fiber in your diet, you’re more likely to become constipated, which can strain your anus and lead to hemorrhoids.

• Drink Enough Water

Another way to avoid hemorrhoids is to drink plenty of water. Dehydration can lead to constipation, making you more susceptible to developing hemorrhoids. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

Water helps to keep things moving through your intestines and prevents constipation. When you’re constipated, the pressure put on your anus from passing stool can cause hemorrhoids.

• Exercise Regularly

Exercising regularly is another good way to prevent hemorrhoids. When you exercise, your body moves around and contracts, which can help keep your bowels moving regularly. This prevents constipation and the straining that can lead to hemorrhoids.

There are many health benefits to exercising regularly, including reducing your risk of developing hemorrhoids. Exercise helps keep your weight down, which can also help reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids. It also helps improve your overall cardiovascular health and reduces your risk for other conditions such as heart disease and stroke.

• Avoid Sitting for Long Periods

Sitting for long periods can strain your anus and increase your chances of developing hemorrhoids. If you have to sit for a long time, try to move around and stretch every 30 minutes or so. You can also use a pillow or cushion to make it more comfortable.

• Be Careful When It Comes to Laxatives

Laxatives can be helpful when you’re constipated, but overuse can lead to hemorrhoids. Laxatives work by stimulating your intestines and causing them to contract, which can cause the veins around your anus to swell and become irritated. If you need to use a laxative, follow the instructions carefully and only use them when needed.

• Visit the Washroom Without Delay

If you feel the need to go, don’t delay. Holding in your stool can put a strain on your anus and increase your chances of developing hemorrhoids. When you visit the washroom, try to take your time and relax. This will help reduce the strain on your anus.

There are several simple ways that you can avoid developing hemorrhoids. One of the simplest is to eat a high-fiber diet, which helps keep your stool soft and easy to pass. Drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, and avoid sitting for long periods to reduce the chances of straining and developing hemorrhoids. Seeking help from a hemorrhoid specialist is essential.