ASK THE EXPERT
2:58 PM EDT, August 7, 2013
Thumb arthritis can happen over time
We've all heard of arthritis in the knees and even the hips. But many people may not know the thumb is prone to the joint disease as well. Neil Zimmerman, hand surgeon at the Curtis National Hand Center at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital, said the most common type of thumb arthritis happens gradually over time.
2:06 PM EDT, July 24, 2013
Obesity can lead to liver disease
You don't have to be a heavy drinker to suffer from liver problems. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease has become the most common chronic liver disease in all developed countries, including the United States, says Dr. Srinevas K. Reddy, assistant professor of surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and a liver surgeon at the University of Maryland Medical Center.
2:30 PM EDT, July 10, 2013
Compartment syndrome can lead to permanent damage if not treated
Our muscles and organs are divided into compartments held together by connective tissue. Damage to the compartments can cause a condition called compartment syndrome, which can cause painful swelling. Dr. Daryl Osbahr, an orthopedic surgeon at Union Memorial Hospital, said if the condition isn't treated soon enough, it can cause long-term damage.
4:51 PM EDT, June 26, 2013
Hemorrhoids more common as people age
Hemorrhoids can be a painful and embarrassing condition, but many people suffer from it, especially as they get older. Luckily, the condition is easy to treat. Sergey Kantsevoy, director of the Center for Therapeutic Endoscopy at Mercy Medical Center, said one new treatment is simpler and quicker than the older options.
3:54 PM EDT, June 12, 2013
More women removing ovaries to prevent cancer
Ovarian cancer can be a death sentence for many women. It is difficult to treat and often goes undetected until the late stages when it has spread to other organs in the pelvis and abdomen.
May 30, 2013
Maintain walkers, wheelchairs like you would a car
Owning a cane, wheelchair or walker is a little bit like owning a car, said Brad Barnhart, a physical therapist at North Oaks, a senior living community in Pikesville. Skip maintenance, and it could lead to unsafe conditions. Barnhart, with more than 25 years of experience in senior living settings, provides some tips on keeping medical devices in good shape.
5:39 PM EDT, May 15, 2013
HPV-related throat cancers multiplying
It is well known that HPV (human papillomavirus) can lead to deadly cervical cancer in women, but the virus is causing cancer in men as well. Throat cancers caused by HPV are showing up typically in men with little or no history of smoking, said Dr. Kevin J. Cullen, an oncologist who specializes in treating head and neck cancers. Cullen, the director of the University of Maryland's Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, talks about the growing cases of HPV-related throat cancers.
2:28 PM EDT, May 1, 2013
Enlarged prostate can cause urination problems in men
Many men will experience prostate enlargement as they get older, some to the point that it will cause urination problems. Dr. Michael Naslund, director of the Maryland Prostate Center at the University Maryland Medical Center, said there are many options for treatment, including surgery, drugs and lifestyle changes.
2:06 PM EDT, April 17, 2013
You don't have to suffer from constipation
Constipation hits everybody at some point. The uncomfortable condition can be caused by many things, including a bad diet and dehydration. Dr. Vaibhav A. Parekh, director of Medstar Harbor Primary Care, talks about how to prevent and treat constipation, and how to tell if it's a sign of more serious health problems.
3:41 PM EDT, April 3, 2013
Cleansing can be good if not too extreme
Does eliminating specific foods from the diet, such as sugar or wheat, provide health benefits? Such cleansing has become a popular way for people to lose weight, boost energy and eat more healthfully. Liz Lipski, academic director for the Master of Science degree in nutrition and integrative health at Maryland University of Integrative Health, believes cleanses can be beneficial if they are not too extreme.
3:15 PM EDT, March 20, 2013
Heart disease often missed in women
Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, but many don't recognize the warning signs. They may ignore the symptoms or mistake them for more benign ailments. Dr. Shannon J. Winakur, medical director of the Women's Heart Center at Saint Agnes Hospital, said women should be more aware of heart disease and how to prevent it.
6:49 PM EST, March 6, 2013
Women should be concerned about low libido
Low libido can not only ruin a women's sex life but could also cause her to miss out on some key health benefits. Dr. Valerie Omicioli, a certified menopause practitioner and clinical assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, said that low sexual desire is something that women should not ignore.
3:02 PM EST, February 6, 2013
Special precautions should be taken when operating on the elderly
Surgery on older people can be riskier than other generations. But it can be safely done if doctors take certain precautions. Dr. Mark Katlic, chief of surgery at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore and an expert on surgical care of patients 80 and older, talks about the risks involved.
2:58 PM EST, February 20, 2013
How common is eclampsia today?
A popular "Downton Abbey" character died in childbirth from eclampsia in a storyline that shocked audiences. But what exactly is eclampsia, and does it kill modern-day moms?
2:58 PM EST, January 23, 2013
Changing to a vegan diet is possible with planning
As people look to live more healthful lifestyles, many are contemplating meat-free diets. But becoming vegan or vegetarian can seem daunting as people try to figure out what to eat to get all the proper nutrients. Ingrid Beardsley, registered dietitian at MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital, said the transition can be done with proper planning.
2:16 PM EST, January 9, 2013
Blood clots can lead to stroke and even death if not caught early
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton recently received a gag gift of protective headgear after she suffered a concussion and blood clot near her brain after a fall. While Clinton can now make light of the injuries, a blood clot can be a serious health risk that can lead to death. Dr. James L. Frazier, III, a neurosurgeon at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, talks about the dangers.
3:23 PM EST, December 12, 2012
Hand, foot and mouth disease common in children
Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common ailment often picked up by children in day care. While it may make for a cranky child, Dr. Benjamin N. Lockshin, a Silver Spring dermatologist who also teaches at Georgetown University and the Johns Hopkins University, said the disease is easily treated.
2:24 PM EST, November 28, 2012
Diabetes leading to blindness in many people
Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults 20 to 74 years old. Dr. Michael Grodin, co-director of retinal services and director of clinical research at Katzen Eye Group, discusses eye problems and the link to diabetes.
2:21 PM EST, November 14, 2012
ACL injuries common in certain sports
ACL tears have taken out so many University of Maryland football players, you'd think the injury is contagious. Four Terps football players have suffered from the knee injuries this season. Dr. Michael E Trice, assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and director of the Johns Hopkins Cartilage Restoration Center at Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, says ACL tears aren't that uncommon in athletes.
3:19 PM EDT, October 31, 2012
Triceps tears have a long recovery period
Fans were missing linebacker Ray Lewis at the end of the Ravens' last game. Lewis is out for the season after suffering a triceps tear, a rare injury with a long recovery time. Dr. Umasuthan Srikumaran, assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, said triceps tears are significant injuries for athletes.
1:55 PM EDT, October 17, 2012
The basics of newborn skin care
First-time parents may not always know how to care for their newborn's skin or recognize common conditions. Most problems resolve themselves, and the basic rule of thumb for washing and choosing products is to go with what's simple, says Dr. Kate B. Puttgen, assistant professor in the Johns Hopkins Medicine departments of dermatology and pediatrics and assistant director of the division of pediatric dermatology and cutaneous laser center.
4:23 PM EDT, October 3, 2012
Understanding sports hernias
That chronic groin pain sometimes felt by athletes may be called a sports hernia, but it's not really a hernia at all, according to Dr. Katherine G. Lamond, assistant professor of surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and a surgeon at the University of Maryland Medical Center. She said they are different from what's normally thought of as a hernia and sometimes tough to diagnose. But once doctors determine that this is the cause, there is effective treatment.
3:57 PM EDT, September 19, 2012
Group urges pregnant women to maintain good dental care
With so many things to think about, expectant mothers sometimes neglect their teeth, but this can have implications for their unborn babies. In response, the advocacy group Maryland Dental Action Coalition is educating women about proper oral hygiene and dietary habits through an effort called Healthy Teeth, Healthy Kids. The group's aim is to develop good habits by mothers and children and to reduce early childhood cavities, said Dr. Winifred J. Booker, an Owings Mills pediatric dentist who has served on several state committees and professional organizations and is currently a spokeswoman for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
4:19 PM EDT, September 5, 2012
Helping your child get enough sleep
The beginning of the school year often means morning battles between parents and their children who don't want to get out of bed in the morning. But a good night's sleep is crucial to a student's performance in school. Dr. Scott Krugman, chairman of the department of pediatrics at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and the vice president of the Maryland Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, talks about children's sleep patterns and how to get them on a workable sleep schedule.
7:40 PM EDT, August 24, 2012
Number of children dying in hot cars remains a problem
No parent would ever intentionally leave a child in a steaming car on a hot summer day. But it happens every year to astounded parents. Dr. Melissa Sparrow, clinical director of pediatric inpatient and emergency services at Greater Baltimore Medical Center, talks about what can happen when babies are left in hot cars and how to prevent it.
3:40 PM EDT, August 8, 2012
Ringworm infection takes on many forms
Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm. Instead, it develops when fungus grows and multiplies on the skin. Dr. Dakara Rucker Wright, a dermatologist with the Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group who practices at Kaiser Permanente's Towson Medical Center, said the disease, most common in children, is easy to treat.
2:09 PM EDT, July 25, 2012
Tips for hydration during summer heat
With the extreme heat, and even in less extreme temperatures, those who spend any time outside must stay properly hydrated. Some drinks are better than others, and some people need more fluids than others, says Dr. Marc I. Leavey, an internist at Mercy Medical Center and Lutherville Personal Physicians.
2:31 PM EDT, July 11, 2012
Considering bariatric surgery? Read this first
Often, those who are very overweight have tried dieting for years before giving up in frustration. But more obese people are turning to bariatric surgery to jump-start their weight-loss programs.
2:32 PM EDT, June 27, 2012
Aphasia affects estimated 1 million people
Earlier this month a Texas Rangers sportscaster went from calling live highlights of a baseball game to talking about a botched robbery. The sportscaster's incoherent switch confused listeners, but doctors saw the symptoms of aphasia, a disease not known to many but which affects 1 million people.
3:42 PM EDT, June 13, 2012
Strategies for dealing with migraines
The many people who suffer from migraine headaches often seek quiet, dark places to ride them out. But there are effective means of preventing them, shortening their duration and even stopping them. There are established medications and lifestyle changes sufferers can employ, and even some new ones to try, says Dr. Michael Sellman, chief of neurology at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore.
7:24 PM EDT, May 30, 2012
Doctors grapple with prostate cancer screening guidelines
For years, the PSA test has been the standard method for early detection of prostate cancer, which strikes one in six men.
11:35 AM EDT, May 17, 2012
Bacteria that caused flesh-eating infection more common than believed
The story of a 24-year-old Georgia graduate student fighting a flesh-eating disease has prompted a microbiologist with the Veterans Affairs Maryland Health Care System to speak out about the infection.
2:05 PM EDT, May 2, 2012
Hernias in women can be hard to diagnose
Hernias are a common ailment among Americans; more than 4 million people develop the painful condition. And although both men and women develop hernias, female patients may be harder to diagnose. Doctors and patients may not realize the abdominal pain a woman is feeling is because of a hernia. Dr. Hien Nguyen, assistant professor of surgery at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, said the pain can be mistaken for other conditions with similar symptoms, such as adhesions from prior surgery, endometriosis, fibroids and ovarian cysts. Nguyen talks about treating hernias in women.
4:24 PM EDT, April 18, 2012
A guide to vasectomy reversal
Sometimes men are the ones to take care of birth control through a surgical procedure. But when those men and their partners have a change of heart about children for any number of reasons, they seek to reverse their vasectomies. And that's usually possible, even long after the original procedure, says Dr. Brad Lerner, co-director of the Vasectomy Reversal Center of America a division of Chesapeake Urology. Lerner answers questions about getting and reversing a vasectomy.
3:33 PM EDT, April 4, 2012
Understanding the new pap smear guidelines
Many women became used to having a Pap smear annually to check for cervical cancer, but recent recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force have updated the timeline. Now, most women will need the test every five years. Cancer experts now agree that that this can fully protect women, while cutting down on costs, false positive test results and side effects, said Dr. Amanda Nickles Fader, assistant professor of gynecologic oncology at the Greater Baltimore Medical Center.
4:52 PM EDT, March 21, 2012
Parents, teens must weigh many factors in deciding on rhinoplasty
Many teens are unhappy with their appearance and ask their parents for a "nose job," or rhinoplasty. But there are a lot of factors to consider, such as the limits of surgery, the long-term effects and possible complications, according to Dr. Patrick J. Byrne, a facial plastic surgery specialist who practices at the Johns Hopkins Cosmetic Center at Green Spring Station. Byrne, also an assistant professor at Hopkins School of Medicine, says there are better techniques to make the surgery successful, but this is still a big decision.
6:34 PM EST, March 7, 2012
Fertility preservation for women with cancer
When a young woman is diagnosed with cancer, getting pregnant is probably the last thing on her mind. But if she wants children in the future, it's something she should think about. The chemotherapy and radiation treatments used to treat cancer can hurt a women's fertility. Nearly 10 percent of the 1.5 million diagnosed with cancer each year are of childbearing age, according to the National Cancer Institute, Dr. Melissa M. Yates, an assistant professor of gynecology and obstetrics at the Johns Hopkins Fertility Center, says these women need to think about fertility preservation before they begin treatment for cancer.
1:38 PM EST, February 23, 2012
Spinal stenosis a painful arthritic condition
Jim Calhoun should be on the sidelines of a basketball court, coaching the University of Connecticut men's team. Instead, he's been on medical leave for a painful arthritic condition.
2:17 PM EST, February 8, 2012
Emergency preparation for dialysis patients
Dialysis is a lifesaving treatment for those with kidney disorders. But during emergencies, particularly bad weather, sometimes patients don't want to go — or can't get to — their usual dialysis center. There are some steps patients can take to prepare, says Brandon Eck at the DaVita dialysis centers, who volunteers with the company's emergency response team, DaVERT.
4:30 PM EST, January 25, 2012
Robotic technology to treat lung cancer
The da Vinci robotic technology allows doctors to perform more precise surgeries. The technique also enables patients to recover more quickly with fewer complications in many cases. The technique is used to perform many different types of surgeries. Dr. Gavin Henry, program director of the surgical residency at Saint Agnes Hospital in Baltimore, uses it over traditional lobectomy surgery to treat patients with lung cancer. The hospital said Henry is poised to outpace every surgeon in Maryland in the use of robotic technology for this operation. He talks about the technique below.
3:41 PM EST, January 11, 2012
Treating menopause symptoms
Every woman will experience menopause, some in the normal course of aging and some before. It can bring on a host of symptoms in addition to hot flashes. But there are things that women can do, from improving their diet and exercising to finding the right treatment, explains Dr. Rakhi Gupta, a gynecologist at the Center for Women's Health at Good Samaritan Hospital. She answers some common questions about this life change.
3:07 PM EST, December 28, 2011
Quitting smoking is tough, but not impossible
Many people pick quitting smoking as their New Year's resolution. But if quitting smoking was easy, most smokers would have already done it. Tobacco is highly addictive and the process isn't easy, but quitting is possible for those who really are ready and are linked to methods that work for them, says Christine Schutzman, a certified tobacco treatment specialist who leads a free Freshstart smoking cessation program at the Cancer Institute at St. Joseph Medical Center.
December 15, 2011
Taking care of diabetes during holidays
More than 20 million Americans are living with diabetes, and another 40 million are in the early stages of the disease. Managing diabetes can be a challenge all year long, but the holidays can pose special problems. All those extra treats, meals and drinks can add up to extra pounds and higher glucose levels. But a little planning, and will power, can keep diabetes in check, according to Susan Steinweg, a registered nurse and a certified diabetes educator. She's also the coordinator of Carroll Hospital Center's Diabetes Center.
2:26 PM EST, November 30, 2011
Cubital tunnel syndrome causes numbness in some fingers
Most people have heard of carpal tunnel syndrome, and likely even know someone who suffers from it. Cubital tunnel syndrome is less common but also can cause debilitating symptoms, such as numbness in the ring and little fingers and wasting of muscle in the hand. More men than women suffer from the disorder, which can be caused by repeatedly leaning on your elbow or bending your arm for long periods of time. Dr. Ryan Katz, attending hand surgeon at the Curtis National Hand Center at Union Memorial Hospital, answers questions about its cause and treatment.
12:48 PM EST, November 16, 2011
Eyelid inflammation becoming more common
Blepharitis, usually identified by a sufferer's red, irritated eyelids, is becoming more common. And while doctors aren't sure why, it can be controlled with vigilance, according to Dr. Laura K. Green, residency program director of cornea, cataract and refractive surgery at the Krieger Eye Institute at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore. She said there are some simple things sufferers can do at home, such as keeping the eyelids clean, that can help ease the irritation.
5:13 PM EDT, November 2, 2011
Early treatment key to foot injuries
We've all stubbed a toe, stepped down on our foot awkwardly or hurt our feet in an accident. Sometimes there's no damage. But other times, there's pain, swelling and bruising. Dr. Gary A. Pichney, from the Mercy Medical Center Institute for Foot & Ankle Reconstruction, answers questions about proper steps to take after an injury to the toe or foot, when to see the doctor and how long the healing may take.
5:40 PM EDT, October 19, 2011
Understanding the new prostate cancer screening recommendations
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent advisory panel, recently recommended that healthy men not be given PSA blood tests to detect prostate cancer. But that won't mean the end of diagnosis and treatment of the disease, the most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer death in American men.
6:30 PM EDT, October 5, 2011
Tips and advice for runners training for Baltimore Marathon
There is more to training for a marathon than running a few laps around the track. Finishing 26.2 miles, or even getting to the starting line, takes attention to some details about eating and hydrating, miles covered, and aches and pains. Dr. John Senatore, avid runner and chief of podiatry in Union Memorial Hospital's sports medicine department, talks about what to do — and what not to do — as next week's Baltimore Running Festival approaches.
10:52 AM EDT, September 30, 2011
Cancer patients turn to acupuncture to cope with symptoms, side effects
Acupuncture, the traditional Chinese medicine that uses needles for treatment, is increasingly being used with cancer patients. Dr. Ting Bao, an assistant professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and faculty at Maryland's Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center and Center for Integrative Medicine, regularly used acupuncture to alleviate pain and treat side effects.
September 22, 2011
A look at Maryland's emergency medical system
The state of Maryland created one of the nation's first statewide emergency medical systems to ensure that patients got consistent and timely care no matter where they were. The Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems now oversees and coordinates the providers from the field to the emergency department, according to James W. Brown, director of educational support services, from headquarters in Baltimore.
September 8, 2011
Progress in Hepatitis C research
Hepatitis C has long been a problem with a low rate of cure. But new drug therapies are in use and others are on the horizon, according to Dr. Paul J. Thuluvath, chief of gastroenterology at Mercy Medical Center and the medical director of the Institute for Digestive Health & Liver Disease at Mercy. That has meant better liver health for millions in this country and around the globe.
August 25, 2011
Back-to-school checkup
Going back to school, particularly if it's a new school, can be a daunting time for kids and their parents. There's a lot to consider, from sleep schedules to proper nutrition and immunizations. Much can be accomplished by establishing good habits, says Dr. Julie Yeh, a pediatrician at Greater Baltimore Medical Center, who answered questions about handling the coming school year.
August 11, 2011
Sepsis
Every year, some 750,000 Americans develop sepsis, an extreme immune system response to infection. It kills a quarter to half of them, more than the number that die from prostate and breast cancer and AIDS combined, according to the National Institutes of Health. Health care providers have a limited amount of time to treat sepsis, which appears to be on the rise, possibly because of the longevity of people with chronic diseases and spread of antibiotic-resistant organisms. Dr. Dean W. Meadows, assistant director of the adult intensive care unit at St. Agnes Hospital, explains sepsis and how it's treated.
6:04 PM EDT, July 27, 2011
Total disc replacement
A newer procedure that involves inserting an artificial disc, called total disc replacement, means patients can get that range of motion and pain relief without the drawbacks of fusion.
4:28 PM EDT, July 13, 2011
Early-onset dementia and Alzheimer's
Everyone forgets a name or a date from time to time. But how do you know when it's something serious?
4:51 PM EDT, June 29, 2011
Food safety for the Fourth of July
There are steps to take to ensure there aren't any unwelcome fireworks in your belly.
4:27 PM EDT, June 1, 2011
MRSA in children
Dr. Robert Ancona at St. Joseph Medical Center answers questions about MRSA in children
3:37 PM EDT, May 4, 2011
Poisoning risks
Maryland Poison Center fields questions about medications, cleaners, plants and other household items
April 7, 2011
Childhood asthma
In Baltimore, as many as one in five children suffers from the condition and many go untreated.
March 24, 2011
Animal bites, scratches
Dr. Tanveer Giaibi of Northwest Hospital answers questions about animal bites
March 10, 2011
Tommy John injuries
Union Memorial orthopaedic surgeon discusses danger as baseball season approaches
3:28 PM EST, February 23, 2011
Deciding when seniors should give up driving
Driving can become a challenge as people age. Jan Crye, an occupational therapist and certified driving rehabilitation specialist at the Driving Evaluation and Training Program at Sinai Hospital, called it a delicate balance between the need for independence and the need for safety. She pointed to an 83-year-old man who recently drove the wrong way on a California freeway, causing a pileup. There are many factors that should be considered before elders get behind the wheel, she said.
4:26 PM EST, February 9, 2011
Wisdom teeth removal
Dr. Robert Williams of University of Maryland Dental School answers questions about third molars
January 27, 2011
The difference between sudden cardiac arrest and heart attacks
The new year brings a lot of resolutions to exercise. And sometimes the cold weather also means more snow shoveling. All that exertion can be harmful to people with abnormal hearts by leading to sudden cardiac arrest. Dr. Gordon Tomaselli, director of cardiology at Johns Hopkins Hospital, talks about the difference between sudden cardiac arrest and a heart attack and what those at risk can do.
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