COMPLIMENTARY CHARLESTON | DORCHESTER | BERKELEY MAY/JUNE 2024 Best Doctors, Dentists, Senior Living, Fitness Centers and More... MAGAZINE
On any given day, you’re given a range of options to fuel your passions, satisfy your cravings and indulge your whims. Learn more about luxury senior living at SouthBayatMountPleasant.com or schedule a visit at 843.886.1124. A Life Plan Community offered by Liberty Senior Living INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE SKILLED NURSING | REHABILITATION 1400 Liberty Midtown Drive, Suite 419 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 © 2024 South Bay at Mount Pleasant ENJOY all the fun & none of the chores
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Colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Colonoscopies can find precancerous polyps so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Colorectal Cancer Screening Dr. Obineme specializes in: • Barrett’s esophagus • Bloating • Celiac disease • Cirrhosis • Constipation • Diarrhea • Diverticulosis • Diverticulitis • Esophagitis • Fatty liver disease • Gastroparesis • Gerd/acid reflux • GI bleed • Hepatitis A, B and C • Indigestion • Internal hemorrhoids • Irritable bowel syndrome • Swallowing disorders Procedures performed: • Capsule Endoscopies • Colonoscopy • Esophageal and Anal Rectal Manometry • Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) • Flex Sigmoidoscopy Regular screening, beginning at age 45, is key to preventing colorectal cancer and finding it early. It is recommended that adults aged 45-85 be screened for colon cancer. It is recommended that patients with risk factors and long-term history of reflux symptoms, be screened for esophageal cancer, starting at age 50. Chuma Obineme, MD GASTROENTEROLOGIST GI Fellowship: Emory University Department of Digestive Diseases Internal Medicine Residency: Emory University, J. Willis Hurst Internal Medicine Program Medical School: University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Medicine Undergraduate: University of Maryland, College Park NORTH CHARLESTON 9313 Medical Plaza Dr, Ste. 202 North Charleston, SC 29406 To schedule an appointment, call (843) 376-0670. www.PalmettoPrimaryCare.com Discover Digestive Wellness: Your Journey Starts Here With Me APPTS NOW AVAILABLE AT THIS OFFICE! LOCATIONS: SUMMERVILLE 5500 Front St Suite 260 | Summerville, SC 29486
• General Check-ups • Ear, Throat & Sinus Infections • Allergies • Blood Pressure • Diabetes • Diet/Weight Management • Physicals • Minor Stitches • Skin & Eye Infections • Depression & Anxiety FAMILY MEDICINE PEDIATRICS • Well Child Check-up • Annual Physicals • Sports Physicals ISLE OF PALMS MOUNT PLEASANT & 1200 Two Island Court, Ste. E Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 (854) 444-7676 www.PalmettoPrimaryCare.com • Immunizations & Vaccines • Acute Care Ann Gregory Kelly, MD | Hayley Bryan, PA-C
843.406.6251 - www.bishopgadsden.org Gadsden Glen is located on James Island, within Bishop Gadsden The award-winning Gadsden Glen Center for Health and Rehab opened to the Charleston Community in 2022 to restore strength and spirit, providing a healing experience unlike any other in the Southeast. With costs in line with the area, Medicare and insurance coverage allows you to select Gadsden Glen for your short-term post-acute rehabilitation, setting you on a course of improved health and wellness. NOW OPEN
843-494-5004 | www.sleepbettersc.com DANA BLALOCK, D.D.S. 1022 Physicians Dr. #B, Charleston, SC 29414 Don’t let snoring & sleep apnea ruin your relationship. A CPAP free solution is available Dr. Dana Blalock offers a new & innovative treatment for snoring & sleep apnea. Is snoring bringing out the beast in you? SCAN TO LEARN MORE
6 | HealthLinksSC.com 14 | CULTIVATING RESILIENCE Resilience involves having mental, emotional and behavioral flexibility to adapt to difficult or challenging life experiences. 18 | NO VACATION FOR HEALTHY HABITS Vacations are a time to relax and indulge, but they don't have to derail your healthy habits. With a bit of planning and mindful choices, you can return from your getaway feeling rejuvenated and energized. 22 | NEARSIGHTEDNESS: LOOKING AHEAD Health professionals warn people that if they don’t make permanent changes in their eye care, nearsightedness will likely become another worldwide pandemic. 25 | FARM TO FORK: PERFECT PICNICS When it comes to picnics, local foods make picnic packing and picnic planning more fun. 30 | TIGHTER, BRIGHTER SKIN While we can’t stop ourselves from aging, there are ways to change the way we age thanks to a growing number of nonsurgical procedures. 33 | BEST IN HEALTH 66 | AVOID THE BURN Every day, people disregard sunscreen, whether by choice, by accident or by lack of education. Learn more about sunburn prevention and sunburn care. 74 | FRANKINCENSE HEALS A clinical study that found the use of frankincense, a resin that comes from the Boswellia tree, helps to decrease the growth of cancer cells in patients with metastatic breast cancer. 80 | NAILS TELL ALL Toenail and fingernail conditions, like discoloration, are often an indication of an array of medical concerns that need treatment. Issue 13.3 MAY/JUNE 2024 MAGAZINE FEATURES
HealthLinksSC.com | 7 86 | REGENERATIVE MEDICINE Regenerative medicine, an emerging and evolving field, helps heal and repair symptoms of disease and injury. 90 | CCMS: DRUG ABUSE AND PREGNANCY Dr. Kenosha Gleaton, a board-certified OB/GYN, discusses prenatal drug abuse and its effects on both mom and baby during pregnancy and after birth. 94 | SENIOR SUPERHEROES Ann Marie and Joshua Long have helped so many senior residents navigate their needs that the Longs are considered Senior Superheroes. 106 | URGENCY FOR URGENT PET CARE Charleston only has three facilities that offer after hours emergency pet care, and only one of those offers it around the clock. CONTENTS DIRECTORIES Primary Care......................................................110 IN EVERY ISSUE Publisher’s Note..................................................... 8 From the Editor......................................................9 Living Healthy Area Events..................................10 There’s an App for That.......................................65 What Doctors Wish We Knew..............................92 The Lighter Side of Health Care..........................98 Charleston Area Nonprofits............................... 100 Unique Case.......................................................102 Faces and Places................................................104 The Pulse on Charleston Nurses........................ 112 SPONSORED MEDICAL CONTENT Delivering Concierge Healthcare to the Lowcountry..........70 Wholeheartedly Whole Health............................................72 Giving Patients a Helping Hand..........................................78 Don’t Lose a Limb to Vascular Disease...............................84 Returning Confidence to Your Smile................................... 93 BY THE NUMBERS Nearsightedness................................................................. 24 Nails.................................................................................... 82
8 | HealthLinksSC.com Issue 13.3 Publisher CULLEN MURRAY-KEMP [email protected] Managing Editor LISA BRESLIN Associate Editor AMY GESELL Copy Editor MARGARET BLUBAUGH Art Director KIM HALL Webmaster GEORGE CONKLIN Sales Manager MANDY WILLIS [email protected] Writers Senior Media Consultant MARTHA SPILLANE [email protected] Photographer JENN CADY [email protected] Distribution Manager CAROL CASSIDY Administration & Bookkeeping GINGER SOTTILE Distribution U.S. Post Office, Harris Teeter, Publix, CVS, Food Lion, Medical Offices TO ADVERTISE IN HEALTHLINKS, PLEASE CALL 843-732-4110 MEDICAL MARKETING GROUP HealthLinks Magazine reserves the right to refuse advertisements. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply the service or product is recommended or endorsed by HealthLinks Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from Medical Marketing Group, LLC. Medical Marketing Group 4 Carriage Lane, Suite 107, Charleston, S.C. 29407 843-732-4110 • [email protected] MAGAZINE PUBLISHER'S NOTE LISA BRESLIN ISABELLA CARLUCCI LINDA ESTERSON AMY GESELL L.C. LEACH III KAREN LISZEWSKI COLIN MCCANDLESS O’TIA PRIOLEAU JIM RADA, JR. KIMBERLY ST. JOHN THERESA STRATFORD LISA WACK Scan to register for the HealthLinks Charity Golf Series! Champagne bottles popped and glasses clinked as well over 100 Lowcountry-local medical professionals celebrated their victories in the 2024 Best in Health. As I canvassed the room, I remember thinking how incredible it was to see such a robust and diverse group of doctors, nurses, therapists and various health leaders all in the same place at the same time. In my toast to this group, I confirmed our appreciation for their collective effort to provide quality care to Charleston. As our readers have confirmed by their votes, the attendees are the area’s Best in Health! While there are undoubtedly challenges in today’s healthcare — patient/provider communication being a core concern — HealthLinks still strives to be an independent, unbiased resource for community members who need information and inspiration to live healthier lives. While we serve as a conduit to health information and entities, we also urge patients to be their own health advocates and to advocate for loved ones who are unable to do so for themselves. We must be proactive about how we approach our health; being proactive starts with consistent communication with our providers — as they are personal partners in our health journey. Pivotal to communication is the re-establishment of trust in our healthcare providers. “Doctor Google” for self-diagnosis and health evaluations chips away at that once deep-seeded trust. Our medical providers have spent their lifetimes researching, practicing and collaborating with colleagues. They have a sworn responsibility to use this knowledge to help us. “Doctor Google” and Chat GPT have no such oath. This issue of HealthLinks celebrates healthcare providers who have earned our trust. Charleston is full of so many wonderful health providers beyond the “Best in Health” group. Join us in the 2024 Best in Health edition’s toast to healthcare providers — to trusting them, to communicating with them and to thanking them. Thank you for taking time to enjoy HealthLinks magazine. Cheers to Good Health, Cullen Murray-Kemp, Publisher Cullen Murray Kemp
HealthLinksSC.com | 9 FROM THE EDITOR... Thanks for picking up the latest edition of HealthLinks. Your “Best in Health” votes have been tallied and, in this issue, we shine a spotlight on the winners. We celebrate the dedicated physicians, therapists, chiropractors and a myriad of other healthcare professionals who have been your trusted advocates and, sometimes, your life savers. Their commitment to compassionate care and patient-centeredness embodies the essence of “the best.” If your healthcare professionals are featured in the “Best in Health” section, be sure to congratulate them; share the news with friends, especially those who are seeking a new dermatologist, pediatric dentist, speech therapist or any of the other fields spotlighted. In addition to the “Best in Health” section, this issue features health-related stories that are page-turners. For example, reporter Lisa Wack’s article “Cultivating Resilience,” explores why some people are more resilient than others when faced with challenging life experiences. She interviewed local mental health professionals to find out how people can build resilience, especially in their children. Reporter Linda Esterson spoke to researchers at MUSC who are leading a clinical study about the use of frankincense, a resin that comes from the Boswellia tree, to decrease the growth of cancer cells in patients with metastatic breast cancer. And reporter Colin McCandless takes us into the emerging and evolving field of regenerative medicine, which turns to people’s own bodies to help heal and repair symptoms of disease and injury. There are also lighthearted articles linked to this warmer season: “Pack the Perfect Picnic,” “Avoid The (Sun) Burn,” and “The Lighter Side of Internet Symptom Searches,” to name a few. As with every issue of HealthLinks, the magazine team and I enjoyed talking to local experts and residents to create the informative stories that we share. We are thankful for all contributors and to you, our readers, who continually inspire us to reach higher and aim for the best in health. To simple pleasures and good health, Lisa Breslin, Managing Editor MAY/JUNE 2024 MAGAZINE PHOTOGRAPHY AND POSING EXPERT VISIT JENNCADY.COM AND SCHEDULE YOUR PHOTOSHOOT TODAY!
10 | HealthLinksSC.com HEALTHY AREA EVENTS l ving MAY EVERY SATURDAY Charleston Farmers Market Marion Square 329 Meeting St. Charleston 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Enjoy a bounty of fresh local produce and homegrown creativity with live music, community groups, activities, and more in a Family/Pet-Friendly environment! Learn More: (843) 724-7305 MAY 11 Family Day Middleton Place 4300 Ashley River Road Charleston 10 a.m.–3 p.m. In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Middleton Place will host a day of demonstrations and activities. Enjoy a water buffalo meet and walk, colonial games, border collie demonstrations, blacksmithing, brick making and more. Learn More: (843) 556-6020 MAY 4-5 Live Wild Holy City Brewing 1021 Aragon Ave. North Charleston 11 a.m. At LiveWild, we provide a comprehensive and joyful wellness experience curated for you to experience a wide range of movement styles, breath work, mental and emotional workshops, live music, depth in your community and more. Learn More: livewildfest.com MAY 15 Mobility Impaired Surf Fishing Clinic Edisto Beach State Park Campground 104 Palmetto Blvd. Edisto Island 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Learn how to tie knots, rig your rod, how to cast, what bait to use, and what fish you can catch with SCDNR and certified fishing instructors. Beach wheelchairs will be provided for the fishing portion. The program is free of charge and will be held if the weather is good. Learn More: eventbrite.com/o/scdnr-fishing-outreach-18659384739
HealthLinksSC.com | 11 MAY 21 AND JUNE 18 Yoga Tuesdays The Backyard at The Ryder Hotel 237 Meeting St. Charleston 6 p.m. Enjoy a rejuvenating 45-minute FLO class, hosted by expert HYLO instructors at The Ryder’s newest outdoor venue — The Backyard. This class is complimentary for guests of The Ryder and HYLO members. Not yet a member or guest? Tickets are $15. Learn More: (843) 723-7451 JUNE 22 Heroes on the Water Taylor’s Landing 708 Fergus Landing Way Etawville 8 a.m. JUNE 1 CPR Certification 22 Westedge St., Suite 400 Charleston 10 a.m. A hands-on, in-person CPR training gives the highest-quality AHA CPR classes to fulfill OSHA and employer requirements. AHA CPR certification cards are issued on the same day as class. Apart from BLS CPR, we are offering first aid, bloodborne pathogens, and pet CPR trainings as well. We have weekly classes, and we also do on-site trainings for businesses and groups. Learn More: cprcharleston.org CHARITY GOLF SERIES MAY 15, 2024 RIVERTOWNE To Benefit: Hoofprints in the Sand, Pet Helpers and My Sister’s House Learn more: charlestonfundraising.com Enjoy this free kayak fishing event for veterans, first responders and their families. Freshwater fishing and lunch to follow! Hosted by Lowcountry Chapter: Bass & Bream. Learn More: (843) 732-8084
1200 Hospital Dr., Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 • 843.375.4000 • www.vhcharleston.com What is a Critical Care Hospital? Critical Care hospitals like Vibra Hospital of Charleston, are uniquely designed to effectively care for medically complex patients. Critical Care hospitals have physicians, nurses and staff who specialize in caring for patients who are critically ill and/or have complicated medical needs like respiratory care. Choosing the right post-acute setting for critically ill patients is crucial for achieving the highest outcomes for these complex patients.
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14 | HealthLinksSC.com “Resilience is not a lack of distress,” explained Cindy Carter, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist and director at Cognitive & Behavioral Health Center of Charleston. “Everyone will experience distress. Resilience is the ability to make adjustments in how you think about and respond to a challenge.” No one really knows for sure how and why individuals respond as they do in tough situations. “We know that there are genetic variables as well as social and environmental factors that allow certain people to respond to stress in more productive ways,” said Jeannine Monnier, CULTIVATING RESILIENCE TO MEET LIFE’S CHALLENGES By Lisa Wack Why is it that some people regain their footing easily when encountering one of life’s inevitable stumbling blocks, while others struggle when facing a challenging experience? Although there are many factors that play a role in successfully navigating through adversity, a key trait is resilience. According to the American Psychological Association, resilience involves having mental, emotional and behavioral flexibility to adapt to difficult or challenging life experiences.
HealthLinksSC.com | 15 Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist and co-director with Carter at Cognitive & Behavioral Health Center of Charleston. One factor that appears to play a part for some people is childhood experiences. Erin Haire, JD, associate director at the South Carolina Institute of Medicine and Public Health, agrees that there can be a strong connection between a person’s experience in childhood and their resilience later as an adult. “Resilience has so much to do with early connections,” Haire said. “Research shows that we learn to be resilient by sensing resilience in others. For instance, kids see how Mom and Dad react to situations.” Feelings of support from those early bonds and community connections can carry through to adulthood. According to Monnier, some of our understanding about resilience comes from researchers who study trauma. “Even though those may be extreme situations, the studies help us to learn what keeps people from developing resilience,” she explained. Other characteristics that seem to affect resilience can be as varied as a person’s sense of humor, their overall optimism and their ability to look at a situation in multiple ways. The reason why one person appears more resilient than another may not be known, but there is growing awareness that a person’s ability to be resilient is not set in stone. According to the APA, the resources and skills associated with resilience can be cultivated and practiced. One way to build resilience is to adopt protective factors that can act as “buffers” to potentially challenging events. Protective factors are wide-ranging and may include connecting to a community, embracing healthy thoughts, improving
16 | HealthLinksSC.com problem-solving skills, and even a commitment to overall health — physical activity, nutrition and adequate sleep. Possibly the most important protective factor is having meaningful relationships with family, friends and the community. Malinda Terry is the community outreach coordinator at National Alliance on Mental Illness Charleston Area, and every day she sees the importance of community support. “It really takes a village of people to support an individual,” she said. “People who love you when you are having highs and love you when you are having lows and all that happens in between.” Terry is all too familiar with the negative impact of isolation with her work at NAMI Charleston. “When someone has a community to turn to, they can learn tools to help them navigate difficult situations which leads to being more resilient in the future,” she said. For children, these protective factors can be developed over time through many different avenues. “Even though early years might be more critical than we originally thought, we can give children lots of support throughout their childhood,” Haire explained. “Wherever we can reach kids, we need to provide the help they need to learn skills, whether it’s through school, sports, recreation, church or home.” Michelle Nienhius, manager of Prevention & Intervention Services at the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services, knows the importance of social support as a protective factor, especially for teens. Through DAODAS’ work with county agencies, she has seen firsthand how local youth organizations help their members build resilience skills. “The youth coalitions focus on developing leadership skills and modeling positive behavior,” she said. “The older teens demonstrate effective ways to avoid peer pressure and to make good decisions.” These skills then help the teens build resilience because they have a plan to follow when faced with a potentially troubling situation. Even though much of resilience research focuses on children, Monnier explained that resilience can be built at any age. “Just as some people may be more athletic naturally, we know that anyone can learn to play a sport,” she said. “Research supports the idea that these protective factors can be built up like a muscle. People can build up a belief in their own abilities.” “Having a flexible thinking style is something anyone can work on,” she added. “For instance, reminding yourself, ‘This situation is not permanent,’ ‘I’m capable,’ or ‘I don’t have to feel responsible for this circumstance.’” Nienhius is enthusiastic about how a better understanding of resilience may help us to weather some of the tough times we’ll face. “The study of resilience is a fairly young field, but our understanding of how it fits into our lives is growing.” she said. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to navigating tough times, but one key piece may not be what we face, but how we respond. “Everyone will experience distress. Resilience is the ability to make adjustments in how you think about and respond to a challenge.”
HealthLinksSC.com | 17 MAKE CONNECTIONS Teach your child the importance of engaging and connecting with their peers, including the skill of empathy and listening to others. HELP YOUR CHILD BY HAVING THEM HELP OTHERS Children who may feel helpless can feel empowered by helping others. MAINTAIN A DAILY ROUTINE Sticking to a routine can be comforting to children, especially younger children who crave structure in their lives. TAKE A BREAK While some anxiety can motivate us to take positive action, we also need to validate all feelings. Teach your child how to focus on something that they can control or can act on. TEACH YOUR CHILD SELF-CARE Teach your child the importance of basic self-care. This may be making more time to eat properly, exercise and get sufficient sleep as well as time to have fun and participate in activities they enjoy. MOVE TOWARD YOUR GOALS Teach your child to set reasonable goals and help them to move toward them one step at a time. NURTURE A POSITIVE SELF-VIEW Help your child remember ways they have successfully handled hardships in the past and help them understand that these past challenges help build the strength to handle future challenges. KEEP THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE AND MAINTAIN A HOPEFUL OUTLOOK Even when your child is facing very painful events, help them look at the situation in a broader context and keep a long-term perspective. An optimistic and positive outlook can enable children to see the good things and keep going even in the hardest times. LOOK FOR OPPORTUNITIES FOR SELF-DISCOVERY Tough times are often when children learn the most about themselves. Help your child look at how whatever they’re facing can teach them “what am I made of.” ACCEPT CHANGE Change often can be scary for children and teens. Help your child see that change is part of life and new goals can replace goals that have become unattainable. Source: American Psychological Association (apa.org) 10 TIPS IN CHILDREN AND TEENS
18 | HealthLinksSC.com VACATION TIME PACK YOUR HEALTHY ROUTINES Vacations are a time to relax and indulge, but they don't have to derail your healthy habits. With a bit of planning and mindful choices, you can return from your getaway feeling rejuvenated and energized. By Lisa Moody Breslin
HealthLinksSC.com | 19 You can still enjoy what you want to eat on vacation but focus a little more on how much you eat, suggested Kathryn Adel, registered dietitian, nutritionist and owner of Charleston-based Fitwave Nutrition. “You don’t have to restrict what you eat; you just need to pay attention to when you are full and stop,” she added. “Think moderation, especially with sweets and alcohol.” Adel also suggested that vacationers pack snacks with protein and fiber so that they can keep a consistent eating schedule. “Snacks will help people avoid feeling starved and then overeating as a result,” she said. “And eating fresh food, fruit and yogurt always helps when trying to maintain healthy eating habits.” One thing that Abigail King, MS, CNS, of AK Functional Nutrition, tells her clients is to stick to the basics while on vacation and get movement in.
20 | HealthLinksSC.com “It may not be realistic to hit the gym during vacation, but get some movement in when you can,” she says. “Whether it’s walking the beach, a bike ride with the kids or checking out the class schedule at the resort. I also find it helpful to explore the hotel or resort’s exercise facilities upon arrival so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly.” Many vacationers incorporate healthy habits by opting for active adventures like cycling tours or surfing lessons, while others are exploring local markets and cooking healthy meals in their vacation rentals. Wellness cruises and other themed retreats can also be excellent health-focused vacations. And if you fall off your healthy habits while on vacation? King believes it is all about your mindset. “The number one thing holding most people back is their all-or-nothing mindset,” she explains. “Thinking they have to be perfect in order to be successful. Long-term health success is about your ability to be consistent, not perfect.” For Charleston-based life coach Jessica Rueger, vacation time is the best time imaginable to apply what you’ve learned that helps you feel healthy and happy while watching for opportunities to learn more. “I work with people to expand their consciousness,” Rueger said. “Expansion involves living your intentions, living the experience you want to have.” “We keep growing; we are never done,” Rueger added. “And vacation time is the perfect time to keep our brains open to what is possible.” Rather than ordering something that you tend to always order when you go out to eat, Rueger suggested, we should order something completely new — especially in a new culture. “We don’t have to spend time laboring about the best item on the menu,” Rueger added. “Just pick something knowing that it will be a new, more vivid experience. Old habits keep us safe, but they also keep us from experiencing the magic.” Rueger has personal examples and stories that her clients have shared with her that confirm how the unexpected, even unexpected mistakes, often give way to awesome opportunities if people are open-minded. If you get lost while on vacation or have to go back somewhere because you left something behind, she explained, those detours are doors that are opening — doors to unknowns that will help you grow. “Life becomes this incredible unfolding,” Rueger explained. “Being aware of what you learn with every fold and then applying it opens up a life that is more vivid, more magical.” Reporter Karen Liszewski contributed to this story. TIPS FOR EATING HEALTHY WHILE ON VACATION 1. Bring healthy snack options like pistachios, small seed protein bars or Chomps jerky. 2. Scope out the closest grocery store. 3. Plan to go to the story early on your trip. 4. If you plan to eat out, then browse the menu before making a reservation so you know your options. The most important tip: Enjoy yourself. Source: Abigail King, AK Functional Nutrition
HealthLinksSC.com | 21 MEET your needs and new neighbors Senior Living Choices offered by Liberty Senior Living ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE REHABILITATION | SKILLED NURSING 194 Spring Street Charleston, SC 29403 Get the daily assistance you need, while living as fully and independently as possible. You’ll enjoy comforting peace of mind, enriching social and recreational opportunities, and the pleasant company of neighbors who quickly become friends. Learn how we can assist you at KemptonofCharleston.com or schedule a visit at 854.201.3466. © 2023 Kempton of Charleston 123103 kempton of charleston meet ad-healthlinks.indd 1 9/6/23 9:51 AM PROUDLY SERVING CHARLESTON, SC, & THE LOWCOUNTRY Convenient Locations: WEST ASHLEY 2073 Charlie Hall Blvd. Charleston, SC 29414 SUMMERVILLE 300 Callen Blvd., Suite 220 Summerville, SC 29486 MONCKS CORNER 2061 Highway 52 Moncks Corner, SC 29461 MT. PLEASANT 1250 Wire Gross Dr. Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466 HEALTH SPECIALISTS & ENDOSCOPY CENTER 843.571.0643 www.palmettodigestive.com At Palmetto GI, our focus is on YOU! Combining state-of-the-art technology and gentle, proactive care, Palmetto GI is committed to providing you with the best possible treatment for your digestive and liver health. Dr. Schnell, Dr. Suarez, Dr. Feussner, Dr. Robbins, Dr. Litchfield, Dr. Sagatelian
22 | HealthLinksSC.com One spring day in 2000, Greenville County resident Harold Moore was doing his usual job: inspecting facilities, machinery and safety equipment for potential hazards at the Hitachi Manufacturing Center in Mauldin. When he went to calibrate an instrument for a piece of equipment, Moore couldn’t judge the accuracy of the readings because “the numbers suddenly weren’t clear.” “Turns out I was nearsighted, and had to get prescription glasses,” said Moore, originally from West Virginia. “Not sure why the condition showed up when it did, as I was almost 40. But it’s gotten worse over time.” Moore’s condition is somewhat unusual because nearsightedness, also known as myopia, usually occurs within a person’s first 15 years. But from now until 2050, health professionals across the globe are warning that unless people everywhere, especially in advanced societies such as Europe and North America, make permanent changes in their eye care, a massive increase in nearsightedness is not only expected, but likely to become another pandemic for many more millions worldwide. “More than half of the world population will be myopic by 2050,” stated Ali Nouraeinejad, clinical ophthalmic adviser with Vision Plus in Buckinghamshire, England, in a 2021 research article for the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. Nouraeinejad also noted in the same article that such an increase would tend to make the condition show up at earlier ages. NEARSIGHTEDNESS: AT THE EDGE OF AN EXPLOSION? WHO warns of a massive increase by the end of the decade By L. C. Leach III
HealthLinksSC.com | 23 “The earlier the onset, the more myopic the individual will become later in life,” added Nouraeinejad, who has also served in the Department of Ophthalmology at Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran. “In this context, the prevalence of myopia has been shown to be more than two-fold over the past 50 years in white British children aged between 10 and 16 years old in the United Kingdom.” In the United States, ophthalmologists and optometrists are already noting the rise of nearsightedness. “About 25% of my patients need treatment for nearsightedness,” said Dr. Elizabeth Holland, board certified ophthalmologist and eye surgeon with Holland Eye Center in Greenville, South Carolina. “We commonly see it in kids between the ages of 10-15, with another spike during college from ages 19-22.” Dr. Justine O’Dell, doctor of optometry with Dr. McGregor & Associates in Greenville, added that nearsightedness accounts for about 50% of their patient cases. “And since 80% of learning is through the visual system, it is very important for school-age children to have an eye exam,” she said. “This is especially true now due to an increased use of digital devices at younger ages, although certainly there is a genetic component as well.” And, now, an age component too. Based on a 2019 report by the World Health Organization, population aging will significantly impact the number of people with eye conditions.
24 | HealthLinksSC.com NEARSIGHTEDNESS By the Numbers It has been approximately 1,850 YEARS since Greek physician Galen first used the term myopia, meaning “to shut the eye.” “Pathologic Myopia,” Kyoko Ohno-Matsui, Lawrence Yannuzzi, Richard F. Spaide (Eds.), 2021 There is 0 evidence uncovered so far to show any single underlying cause of myopia. National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland There are 5 BILLION people worldwide expected to be nearsighted by the year 2050. This equates to more than 50% of the entire world population. International Myopia Institute, https://myopiainstitute.org/ It has been approximately 23.5 CENTURIES since Greek philosopher Aristotle first described the difference between nearsightedness and farsightedness. “Pathologic Myopia,” Kyoko Ohno-Matsui, Lawrence Yannuzzi, Richard F. Spaide (Eds.), 2021 There were approximately 46,521 optometrists practicing in the United States as of 2018. American Optometric Association There were approximately 18,000 ophthalmologists practicing in the United States as of 2021. American Academy of Ophthalmology For example, WHO projects that by 2030, the number of people worldwide aged 60 years and over to reach 1.4 billion — an increase of 45.5% from 2017. WHO further projects the number of people worldwide 80 years and over to reach 202 million — a 47.4% increase from 2017. And the U.S. Census Bureau is projecting older adults to outnumber children by the year 2034 for the first time in U.S. history. So, what can you do right now to help keep nearsightedness away? Holland and O’Dell and their colleagues with the American Academy of Ophthalmology and American Optometric Association offer these options to slow the progression of myopia: • Wear contact lenses properly. • Schedule regular eye exams and check for both near- and farsightedness. • Take medications as prescribed by your ophthalmologist. • Have surgery when necessary. • For every 20 minutes of screen time — be it computer, TV, cell phone, or other electronic viewing device — take a 20-second break to view something 20 feet away. • Spend more time outdoors. “All of these things help to slow down progression of myopia,” Holland said. While there is not yet enough hard medical evidence to conclusively connect screen time to nearsightedness, researchers with the National Institutes of Health have reported spending more time outdoors reduces the risk. “There is solid evidence that exposure to brighter light can reduce risk of myopia,” said Dr. Russel Lazarus in a 2021 article for The Optometrists Network, an online eye resource currently serving more than 1 million people each year. “Peripheral defocus can regulate eye growth. But whether spending time outdoors substantially changes peripheral defocus patterns and how this could affect myopia risk is unclear.” In addition, both Holland and O’Dell recommend dilating drops, contact lens wear and a type of myopia control known as orthokeratology — the temporary reshaping of the cornea with specially made rigid contact lenses. “This is a relatively new type of myopia control, developed in the last 20 years to decrease the rate of progression of nearsightedness,” O’Dell said. “But we encourage more time outside to decrease the risk.” Which, despite his condition, is probably one reason Moore kept it away until almost age 40. “I spent most of my time outdoors when I was a kid,” he said. “And except for a stint in the West Virginia coal mines when I was 22-25, I don’t know what else I could have done to keep my vision in good shape.” There are 4 TOP RISK FACTORS for myopia: 1) genetics; 2) prolonged screen time; 3) prolonged close-up activities; 4) environmental conditions. Some studies support the idea that too much time indoors may increase the risk of nearsightedness. Mayo Clinic TWO HOURS outdoors daily is the #1 recommended best chance of prevention for myopia. International Myopia Institute
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26 | HealthLinksSC.com THE PERFECT PICNIC By Karen Liszewski
HealthLinksSC.com | 27 Ah — the smell of fresh flowers in the air, beach days on the horizon and warm sunny weather all signal the start of spring. It’s also the perfect time to grab your blankets, get outdoors and savor a picnic with friends and family. Whether you are looking for a beach experience or to sit on the grass in the park, Charleston has gorgeous places to set down your blankets this season. “I’m originally from Louisville, Kentucky, and a couple of years ago some girlfriends from high school came up to visit,” said West Ashley resident Sherry Kincaid. “We had the best time on a picnic at Sullivan’s Island, Station 26 — my favorite.” “We ate fig jam and goat cheese with crackers. We enjoyed homemade sangria, too, and, oh, we laughed — big belly laughs,” she added. No-bake oatmeal cookies were a picnic favorite for Kincaid’s children, and for students at Flowertown Elementary in Summerville, where she was a room mom. “Those cookies are fast, easy, tasty and cheap,” she said. “My number one spot is Pitt Street Bridge Park where you can have a gorgeous sunset picnic,” said Elle Moseley, owner of Picnic Charleston. "Other spots include Waterfront Park, Hampton Park, Isle of Palms (close to Breach Inlet), Melton Peter Demetre Park on James Island and Morris Lighthouse on Folly.” Where you picnic matters, but what you pack to eat matters most, picnic fans and experts note. Charcuterie boards, special sandwiches and fresh fruit are favorites. People who love to picnic also recommend stopping by local farmers markets, like the Charleston Farmers Market or West Ashley Farmers Market, to grab fresh food before heading to your spot. Inspired to picnic but have no time to pull it together yourself? Charleston boasts of picnic experts and luxury picnic companies that can help. LUXURY PICNIC COMPANIES WEIGH IN Moseley believes that the perfect picnic consists of a few elements that come together to create a unique experience. “The top items for the perfect picnic are a nice blanket, comfy pillows, bug spray and good company,” she said. Another must-have for the ultimate picnic is delicious food and Moseley loves a good shareable charcuterie. “My go-to for the best shareable charcuterie is Chucktown Cheese Boards,” she said. Serving all over the Charleston area, Chucktown Cheese Boards has everything you need for any kind of picnic you are planning this spring. From bento boxes and medium graze boards to letter or numbers boards, you will find a number of options to compliment your picnic. Alyssa Alfano, owner of Holy City Picnic, has the same items on her list but would add pretty stemmed glassware. “These elevate the whole feel of the picnic, whether you’re drinking water or wine.” “You know it’s a great picnic when the food makes you feel good and everyone is smiling and full of laughter,” Kincaid said. “I’m already looking forward to my next one.” INGREDIENTS • Your favorite kinds of fruits like grapes, blueberries, cantaloupe, kiwi, strawberries, etc. • Lime zest • Lime juice • Honey DIRECTIONS • Wash and dry the produce, cut everything up into bite size pieces. • Mix together the lime juice, lime zest and honey. • Put the fruit in a large bowl. • Drizzle the sauce over the fruit. • Mix everything together. FRUIT SALAD
28 | HealthLinksSC.com INGREDIENTS • Focaccia bread • A handful of arugula • 1 fresh mozzarella ball, sliced • 2 tomatoes, sliced • Basil leaves • Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling • Salt and pepper • Optional: roasted cherry tomatoes and pickled onions DIRECTIONS Assemble the sandwiches on the focaccia bread. Top with basil leaves, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. CAPRESE SANDWICH BY LOVE & LEMONS INGREDIENTS • 3 cups old-fashioned oatmeal • 5 tablespoons peanut butter • 2 teaspoons vanilla • 2 cups brown sugar • 1⁄2 cup milk • 1⁄4 cup butter DIRECTIONS • Mix together the first three ingredients. Set aside. • Stir together sugar, milk, and butter in Medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally — fully boil for one minute. • Immediately pour over oatmeal mixture and stir thoroughly, but rapidly. • Spoon cookie-size scoops (a heaping tablespoon) onto waxed paper or plastic wrap and let set until firm. NO-BAKE OATMEAL COOKIES
HealthLinksSC.com | 29 Take the first step to restoring your independence when you choose 5-star rated recovery with The Village at Summerville. • State-of-the-art health and rehab center • Private rooms available in short-term rehabilitation • Physical, occupational, aquatic, speech and nutritional therapies • 24-hour nursing care • Therapy coverage available seven days a week 201 W. 9th North St., Summerville, SC Your Recovery Begins Here! PresCommunities.org (843) 879-0919 [email protected] To learn more, contact Admissions: careforlifecharleston.com | 843 852-9090 FREE ASSESSMENTS IN HOME CARE RESPITE CARE VA CARE, AND MORE We’re here to help. Contact us today! Contact Shay Young-King [email protected] Immediate Care Openings Available Private Therapy Services has been Charleston’s leading physical therapy and rehabilitation practice since 2002. Their 1-on-1 treatment approach to physical therapy has yielded tremendous results. No Referral Needed. Insurance Accepted. Call today. PHYSICAL THERAPY | SPORTS MEDICINE PELVIC FLOOR | BALANCE | & MORE askmypt.com | 843-766-2121 Charleston | Mount Pleasant | Summerville
30 | HealthLinksSC.com Meg is a frequent flyer at Charleston medispas, and she looks forward to every visit as if it were her first. She requested anonymity because, she explained, “My friends don’t ask me if I’m tired anymore, and I don’t want them to know what my secret is.” Before taking advantage of nonsurgical options to give her a more youthful glow, she said every glance in a mirror “took some spark away.” At 50, she said, “I felt like a vibrant person, but the energy I felt wasn’t reflected in the mirror.” Meg explored plastic surgery options, but her hesitancy about anesthesia, no matter how low the dose and the expense, inspired her to take advantage of nonsurgical options — Botox and microneedling, to name two. While we can’t stop ourselves from aging, there are ways to change the way we age. Some people opt for surgery, but there are plenty of nonsurgical procedures that can reverse the impact of time. As skin ages, it loses volume. The two main causes of that loss are sun exposure and hormonal changes, explained Ashley Lovett, an aesthetic nurse injector for Mount Pleasant-based TIGHTEN AND BRIGHTEN SKIN WITHOUT SURGERY By O’Tia Prioleau
HealthLinksSC.com | 31 Plastic Surgery in the Carolinas. Between the ages of 41 and 47, estrogen decreases rapidly, leading to less elasticity and more sagging skin. Tightening and brightening the skin should begin at home first, with a consistent clean-exfoliate-and-moisturizing routine, local experts confirm. Daily use of sunscreen year-round is another at-home step people can take to ward off signs of aging. “Skin is an organ; it has to be healthy. It is not all about vanity; it’s about keeping your skin healthy. An at-home regimen with really good products is the first step,” said Lovett. Kerri Weiss, licensed aesthetician and owner of The Skin Care Studio in Charleston, said the best way to prevent aging skin is to see a professional regularly for a consultation. “Brightening skin can be as simple as getting a facial, which involves a deep clean to remove toxins, bacteria and dead skin cells,” Weiss added. Each time Meg completes a nonsurgical procedure, she said that she feels “overjoyed.” “How I look matches how I feel,” she added. “And my face is still mine — it just has a more youthful look.”
32 | HealthLinksSC.com SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR NONSURGICAL METHODS TO TIGHTEN AND BRIGHTEN SKIN INCLUDE: LASER SURGERY — one of the most common methods for tightening skin at the surface level for fine lines and wrinkles. A handheld device uses high-intensity focused ultrasound technology to heat and stimulate collagen production in the deepest dermis layer of skin, resulting in tighter, more youthful-looking skin. MICRONEEDLING — or collagen induction therapy, is a treatment that requires pricking the skin with tiny, sterilized needles, which causes your body’s healing response to generate more collagen and elastin, and as it heals, helps your skin look younger. MORPHEUS8 — a treatment that can be done in under an hour, but full results are not evident until after a year. Clients “get injections into the face and when the needles are in, radio frequency heats up the tissue to around 60 to 70 degrees Celsius to tighten the skin. The heat causes the tissue to contract,” Lovett explained. MICROCORING — a new method that does not require heat. This treatment “takes out little plugs of skin” with a device called Ellacore. The skin shrinks to heal, which tightens clients’ skin. BIO GENERATORS — are injections like fillers, but they change the skin. “They stimulate your body to make collagen and elastin [which] gives your skin a firmer, tighter look [while also adding] blood vessels,” Lovett explained.
Recipients
34 | HealthLinksSC.com BEST ACUPUNCTURIST Dr. Brittney Epps Dr. Brittney Epps of Serenity Wellness is committed to promoting healthy lifestyles and addressing the root of patients’ problems. HealthLinks is thrilled to announce Dr. Epps as the inaugural winner of our newest category. BEST ADDICTION RECOVERY CENTER Live Oak Mental Health and Wellness Trident Health System’s Live Oak Mental Health and Wellness expanded its services to include an intensive outpatient program for substance abuse recovery in January of this year, quickly earning the confidence of HealthLinks voters. BEST ALLERGIST Dr. John Ramey Renowned allergy expert Dr. John Ramey of National Allergy and Asthma takes the Best in Health prize this year for his outstanding care. Also known for his research, advocacy and humanitarian work, it’s easy to see why Dr. Ramey is a Charleston favorite. BEST ALLERGY CENTER Charleston ENT & Allergy Charleston ENT & Allergy wins 2024’s Best in Health award for its comprehensive and innovative care. Diagnosing and treating patients of all ages, the practice uses the latest technology to keep its patients happy and healthy. With thousands of votes from readers, patients and local medical professionals,
HealthLinksSC.com | 35 BEST AMBULATORY COMPANY Trident Medical Center This year’s Best in Health Best Ambulatory Center knows that when minutes count, competent emergency care is critical. Trident Medical Center prides itself on providing excellent critical care with cutting-edge technology and skilled specialists. BEST AUDIOLOGIST Dr. Jennifer Esse Consistently voted Best Audiologist by readers since 2021, Dr. Jennifer Esse’s expertise, appreciation of, and compassion for her patients are just a few of the reasons she continues to bring home the gold. BEST BARIATRIC PROGRAM/DOCTOR Dr. Kenneth Mitchell Dr. Mitchell, of Roper St. Francis Healthcare, provides stateof-the-art, progressive care for his patients, treating the whole person rather than focusing on the surgical aspects of bariatric medicine. Happy clients awarded him a win by a landslide. BEST BEDSIDE MANNER (MD) Dr. Kenneth DeSart Once again, Dr. Kenneth DeSart has captured hearts and votes for Best Bedside Manner. Recognized for his extraordinary talent, compassion, kindness and efficiency, Dr. DeSart remains a beloved member of HealthLinks’ community. HealthLinks is proud to present our 2024 Best in Health winners. Photo by Matthew Peacock photography.
36 | HealthLinksSC.com Mount Pleasant Gardens is a stand-alone assisted living facility for those with dementia and related diagnoses. Its mission is “to create joy in moments that matter.” We know this journey is hard for the residents and their families, so our mission speaks to the loving, encouraging moments we work to create through caregiving and enrichment. Mount Pleasant Gardens has a unique environment — our building is a square that surrounds a large, beautiful courtyard where residents/families can visit. Our “ladies only” Sullivan side consists of female patients who have mild to moderate dementia, where our goal is to lower agitation and fears concerning the dementia journey while providing a sense of worth through forming meaningful relationships and appropriate programming. Our Rutledge side is comprised of both men and women who have progressed in their dementia journey. Believe it or not, our men watch out for these ladies, offering oversight and conversation in a compassionate way. Both sides offer robust programming based on cognitive level and staff that become “students of their residents,” helping them to contribute to their activities of daily living. Management and many of our staff have been employed with Mount Pleasant Gardens since we opened in 2018 and are dedicated to the mission we strive each day to achieve. Our families inform us this model is working. One testimony from the family of a Sullivan resident states: “My mother has adjusted and is very happy — she is thriving with the daily routine and activities and forming new relationships with fellow residents! I get to wholeheartedly enjoy my time with her since I’m not constantly worried about the next obstacle that comes with dementia (there are new ones daily). I am beyond grateful for Mount Pleasant Gardens and all the angels that work there. Thank you isn’t nearly enough.” Also, a recently departed family left us this message: “On behalf of our entire family, we want to thank you and your staff for every minute of care you have given Mama since 2020. From the beginning and throughout her stay, we have experienced such peace in knowing she was being well cared for. We are so appreciative of you all over these years.” Mount Pleasant Gardens is honored to be “best in health” but the real honor is to serve those that are on this dementia journey with love, joy and passion every day of the year. Come see what makes us different! A stand-alone assisted living memory care community offering: • beginning and moderate stage dementia in an assisted living safe environment. • moderate to end-stage supportive dementia care. Mount Pleasant Gardens is committed to being the leader in providing quality personal services for our memory care residents and supporting them and their families through the dementia journey. MOUNT PLEASANT GARDENS Best Memory Care Facility LOVE. JOY. PASSION. Photo by Matthew Peacock photography.
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