HomeHealth News - January 2010

Health News - January 2010

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    • Your Annual Physical Exam

    Once you’ve made an appointment to see an NMPG Internal Medicine physician for your annual physical, there are a few things you’ll want to consider preparing to make your appointment as successful as possible. Be prepared to discuss your recent physical condition, including any recent health problems. If there have been some illnesses, jot down a brief history to make certain nothing is forgotten. Include details of your family's medical history as this can help the physician to pay particular attention to potential problem areas. Also, list any medications or supplements you are taking, particularly ones prescribed by another physician or over-the-counter medication.

    Include details about your lifestyle, particularly elements that might affect your health. Do you use tobacco or alcohol (and in what quantities)? Have you had any recent weight loss or gain? Trouble sleeping, stress, etc. all can affect your health and well being.

    During your physical exam, the following tests might be performed:

    • Blood pressure – elevated blood pressure can lead to an increased risk for heart disease and stroke
    • Cholesterol – high cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke
    • Skin cancer screening exam - a look at every part of your body for suspicious lesions and/or changes in existing moles.
    • Electrocardiogram (EKG) - to check the rhythm of your heart
    • Fecal occult blood test - for colon cancer (the number two cancer killer)
    • Height/weight - is weight consistent with height?

    • Additional tests for women:

    • Pap smear - to screen for cervical cancer.
    • Pelvic and breast exam – to screen for cancer or other abnormalities.

    • Additional tests for men:

    • Testicular exam – to screen for tumors or other abnormalities.
    • Prostate - for cancer.

    • Talk with the doctor after the exam (or after the test results come in). If no problems are found - ask if you are at risk for any potential problems and what lifestyle changes can be made.

    If you are diagnosed with a condition - find out if it is under control or map out a treatment plan. Make certain you understand everything and are in complete agreement with proposed treatment.

    An annual physical can help keep you well and provide you and your family some peace of mind regarding your health.

    2010 is a Great Year to Quit Smoking

    The Center for Integrative Medicine’s smoking cessation program is based on proven methods representing the most current thinking in cessation efforts. Led by a registered nurse with 20 years experience helping people quit smoking, you will find that our services are designed to fit your unique needs.

    Our smoking cessation specialist can help you identify the right therapy and coach you on behavior change techniques that can successfully break nicotine addiction. Programs are offered monthly. Call the Center for Integrative Medicine at 312-926-DOCS (3627) to determine the right program for you.

    Start an Exercise Regime

    Does going to the gym feel like a chore? Do you have trouble getting started on a new workout routine? The Center for Integrative Medicine (CIMW) has great beginning classes in Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi. Movement classes are great low-impact ways to start improving your health and fitness.

    We have classes for all levels of fitness. One of our featured programs is Gentle Pilates. This is a great class for anyone who has not been doing regular core training and wants to learn how to use their deepest core muscles. We start with fundamentals in the class to incorporate into the full exercises. It's also a great refresher for people who have taken pilates previously, but not done it for awhile.

    Class listings, prices, dates and times are all listed on nmh.org. You can also call us directly to discuss available class times and register at
    1-877-926-4664. Please be advised class registration is open for the first three weeks of a given session.

    Women's Health at Any Age

    Women’s health services offered by NMPG gynecologists include:

    • Essure
      When you are certain that your family is complete and you do not want to have children in the future, the Essure procedure provides permanent birth control without hormones, incisions, extended recovery time or a hospital stay.
    • Novasure
      Do you suffer from heavy periods? Novasure is an in-office procedure that can significantly reduce or eliminate menstrual bleeding. This minimally-invasive procedure is quick and patients go home the same day. See your NMPG gynecologist to discuss if this option is right for you.
    • Urodynamics
      Do not let urinary incontinence or other forms of bladder dysfunction such as urinary urgency and frequency, prohibit you from enjoying your daily activities. An evaluation of your urinary problems will allow you and your physician to discuss available options to assist in restoring normal bladder function.
    • DaVinci Surgical System
      For some complex conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic prolapse or ovarian cysts, minimally invasive surgery using the DaVinci robotic surgery system may be an option. Before accepting surgery that requires a large incision, consult with the gynecologists at NMPG to see if minimally invasive surgery is an option for you.

    • WTTW11 Women's Health TV Series

    Prentice Women’s Hospital and WTTW have partnered to inform and inspire women to take control of their health with a four-part television series, Health Secrets: What Every Woman Should Know. Hosted by award-winning journalist Paula Zahn, each one-hour program is aimed at addressing women’s health needs at all stages of life. This weekly program begins airing Thursday, January 21 at 8 p.m.

    Feeling Great in Midlife features Melinda Ring, MD, from the Center for Integrative Medicine and Wellness. This episode, airing on February 4 at 8 p.m., considers what it takes to feel great during the change of life. Menopause and alternative choices for staying healthy are covered, along with discussion about integrative medicine and age-appropriate screenings.

    For more information on the television series visit nmh.org/healthsecrets.

    Welcome to Our New Provider

    Anjali Rao, MD, has joined our Pediatrics practice in Northbrook. Dr. Rao will also see patients in our Lincoln Park/SoNo office.