Whether you are a parent, or just have little ones on your holiday shopping list, you are probably aware that December is Safe Toys and Gifts Month. LeBauer HealthCare celebrates this initiative and works hard to promote mindful giving all year long. Considering your child’s age and abilities when buying toys can greatly decrease their chances of injury, preventing dreaded ER trips during the holiday season. In our last blog post, we highlighted several points to consider while shopping, and today we’ll expand on that by discussing the importance of keeping toys clean. With flu season in full swing, you’ll want to take note of these simple tricks.

Make Good Use of Your Household Appliances

Cleaning each toy by hand can take a big chunk of time. Many people forget that your appliances can be utilized for cleaning more than laundry and dishes. For plush toys, doll clothes and other soft items, read the label to determine if machine washing is recommended. Toss appropriate items in a mesh laundry bag and let the machine do the work. For plastic items and other hard toys, use the dishwasher to keep germs at bay. Remember to turn the heat dry setting off.

Clean With Care

When wiping down toys, always use several cloths or different areas of one large cloth. If you are wiping toy after toy with the same cleaning surface, your work may be counterproductive. Additionally, it is important to avoid harsh cleaning solutions, as toys always end up in the mouths of little ones. Here is a great recipe for a non-toxic cleaning solution:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 2-3 drops of lemon juice or essential oil

This recipe is great to keep on hand, but heavy-duty sanitizing may require properly diluted bleach or another sanitizing product. Just be sure to check labels for solutions considered non-toxic.

Don’t Neglect Electronics

With the digital age, many popular toys are electronic or battery powered. Though it may be a bit more challenging, is equally important to clean these items. Before cleaning an electronic toy, remove any batteries or parts that may be damaged or corroded. Next, wipe every surface with a solution of dish soap and water. If desired, electronics can be sanitized with a household disinfectant, but remember to remove any excess solution before handing the toy back over to little ones.

We hope these tips will help prevent colds and flu in your household. If you have other tips for keeping toys clean and safe, please share them in our comments section!

Happy cleaning and happy holidays from the LeBauer HealthCare team!

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Heartburn with all the holiday parties? All this seasonal eating can intensify GI issues.  See how we can help below!

Gastroenterology / Endoscopy

For many who suffer from gastrointestinal issues, an activity as fundamental and simple as eating becomes painful, difficult and miserable. Rather than enjoying meals, you dread them, and every over-the-counter medication you’ve tried hasn’t solved the issue. What’s wrong? Get answers to your GI issues from the experienced gastroenterologists at LeBauer HealthCare.

From the discomfort of chronic heartburn to the searing pain of gallstones, LeBauer HealthCare’s gastroenterologists can help diagnose and treat your GI issues with a range of advanced procedures and services.

LeBauer HealthCare offers gastroenterology services and screening at North Elam Ave. location in Greensboro, N.C.

LeBauer Endoscopy Center

In addition to focused screening and treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, LeBauer’s Gastroenterology division also provides access to the LeBauer Endoscopy Center, an independent, freestanding ambulatory care center for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including endoscopies and colonoscopies.

Managed by LeBauer gastroenterologists, the LeBauer Endoscopy Center is located on the fourth floor of the Sidney F. LeBauer Medical Center at 520 North Elam Avenue, Greensboro. It is licensed by the State of North Carolina, certified by Medicare and an AAAHC accredited outpatient endoscopy center in Greensboro.

Endoscopic procedures are scheduled on an elective basis. Hours of operation are from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday – Friday. Outside of those hours, urgent or emergent care is provided at Wesley Long Community Hospital and Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital.

Make an Appointment

LeBauer Gastroenterology offers appointments at the North Elam Ave. location in Greensboro, N.C. If you are a new patient, please call 336.547.1745 to make an appointment. Our office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday.

To schedule an appointment at The Endoscopy Center, please call 336.547.1718. The Center is open from 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday-Friday.

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LeBauer HealthCare offers compassionate care to Greensboro and surrounding communities all year long, but we like to do a little extra around the holidays. The opportunity to help local children always makes our season bright. That’s why we continue to honor our managers’ tradition of collecting toys throughout the month of December for Toys for Tots. It is an initiative that everyone looks forward to, and a great way to wrap up the year.

As you can see, the managers had a blast while collecting gifts. They participate in an activity where each manager draws the name of another manager, and is asked to purchase a toy that reminds him or her of that person. The managers then exchange gifts with each other before donating them to Toys for Tots. This year, the group had a great time and was able to give back to many children in need.

The toys were delivered on December 5 at Ward Black Law during the annual drop-off event. Todd from New Country 104.1 was on hand at the event and shared in LeBauer’s excitement of caring for families in the community!

 

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By now, most children already have their wish lists prepared and gifts are being purchased for the holidays. While every parent wants to give their family the perfect presents, it is important to consider safety when shopping. Many toys that children ask for are actually not age appropriate and can create a variety of health risks. As you can imagine, emergency rooms see thousands of children on and around the holidays – treating choking incidents, cuts, burns, poisoning from toxic products and more. December has been named “Safe Toys and Gifts Month” to raise awareness of these risks. In attempt to keep the season merry and injury-free, Melissa O’Sullivan, FNP, and other LeBauer Primary Care providers have some tips for healthy holiday giving.

1. When shopping, carefully examine the age restrictions on each toy’s box. These are in place to protect the safety of young children.
2. Consider each child’s younger siblings. If there are multiple small children in a household, a toy with small parts may not be wise for anyone. To protect the entire family, small parts should be stored in sealed containers to prevent choking hazards.
3. Toys purchased at yard sales, thrift stores or those handed down from sibling to sibling should be examined for safety. Toys are frequently subject to safety recalls, so it would be wise to check safekids.org before gifting a used toy.
4. Inspect all toys that your children receive at school parties or family gatherings. Review the age recommendations and examine for small parts, sharp edges or other hazards like cords and ropes.
5. If there is a child with special needs on your list, consider their unique skills and hindrances. Suggestions can be found at ableplay.org.

While we all want to give our children everything on their lists, remember that simple is often better! Melissa O’Sullivan, FNP, recalls her toddler enjoying boxes and tissue paper amidst a sea of toys one Christmas morning.

We hope these tips will help you be a mindful shopper over the coming weeks. And remember, if you do have an injury this holiday season, do not hesitate to seek prompt medical attention.

Happy Holidays from the LeBauer HealthCare team!

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With roughly 42 million American smokers, the American Cancer Society marks the Great American Smokeout annually on the third Thursday of November. This initiative empowers smokers to make a plan for quitting. Even if they choose to honor the day by not smoking for 24 hours, a stride is made in the right direction. Since the 1970s, the Great American Smokeout has challenged people to stop using tobacco, and continues to help today by providing tools and resources for people to become and stay smoke free.

The Case for Quitting

According to the American Cancer Society, tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the U.S. Tobacco smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, hundreds of which are toxic and 70 of which are known to cause cancer, putting smokers at greater risk for the following health concerns:

Heart disease
Emphysema
Chronic bronchitis
Lung cancer
And many more devastating diseases

The good news: the benefits of quitting begin immediately after a person stops smoking. Quitting at a young age can greatly reduce your health risks, but quitting at any age can provide further years and quality of life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Graphic created and provided by the American Cancer Society.

Resources For Smokers

Research shows that smokers are most successful in kicking the habit when they have support. Using two or more of these resources works better than using one alone.

• Telephone smoking-cessation hotlines in NC: 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).
• Stop-smoking groups, online quit groups, counseling
• Nicotine replacement products
• Prescription medicine to reduce cravings
• Guidebooks
• Encouragement and support from friends and family members

Helpful Links

Quitline NC

Stay Away From Tobacco

Quit Net

Smoking-Related Medical Issues?

LeBauer Pulmonary/Critical Care physicians offer compassionate care for individuals who may be dealing with smoking-related medical issues.  For more information about LeBauer Pulmonary/Critical Care services and physicians, please call us at 336.547.1700 or learn more at our website https://www.lebauer.com/services/pulmonarycritical-care/.

 

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

American Cancer Society

Quitline NC

 

 

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Dr. Gutterman tells you how to deal with holiday stress during this week’s FOX8 The Doctor Is In segment.  This video, along with the helpful tips and information shared in the article, will allow you to enjoy time with family and friends, add meaning to the holiday, and avoid regret once the holiday passes.

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Epileptic support groups are helpful for navigating the common obstacles patients face such as sleep management, medication maintenance and making it to numerous doctor appointments. However, there are times when support groups don’t work for people with Epilepsy. Patients often live in rural areas or have circumstances that make it difficult to get to support group meetings. Dr. Jaffe and the LeBauer Neurology team work with patients to understand their obstacles and help them receive the most effective form of support. Various research initiatives and new programs at LeBauer are addressing the unique needs of Epileptic patients. This blog post will shed light on the latest developments that go beyond the traditional “12 step” support group for living with Epilepsy.

Introducing Self-Management

The CDC is working with U.S. universities and community-based organizations through MEW (Managing Epilepsy Well) to launch self-management programs and to create tools aimed at improving the everyday life for Epileptics.

LeBauer Neurologist Dr. Jaffe confirms, “ …Key components to treatment are support groups and self-management tools, along with being seen by your doctor as scheduled.” “These establish consistency, which helps patients with taking medications and staying on their treatment plan.”

Emphasizing Support

There are online and in-person support groups that Dr. Jaffe, and the LeBauer Neurologists, recommend to their patients as part of an individualized treatment plan.

Additional resources for support groups and information can be found here.

Making It Work

Dr. Jaffe works with patients who have transportation concerns due to living in rural areas, medical restrictions, age or mental illness such as depression. Patients who have co-existing mental illness often struggle with managing medications and appointments, but we can help. New research developments and self-management tools allow the patient to be more in control of their condition. These include online tools, telephone self-management programs and electronic decision support systems for clinics. According to Dr. Jaffe, these programs seem very promising.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one is dealing with epilepsy, contact LeBauer Neurology for more information about groundbreaking treatment options and support groups. We look forward to working with you.

 

 

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Trying to stay warm during the winter months is a familiar sentiment. As we step outside in the morning, the brisk air is a blatant reminder to bundle up. But while focusing on staying warm is important, it is equally essential to focus on staying well. As you are out and about completing holiday shopping and attending family gatherings, remember that the risks for illness or injury increase greatly at this time of year. LeBauer Primary Care wants to help you winterize in anticipation of an exceptionally chilly season. This blog post will continue an educational series, helping you with flu prevention, cold survival, accident avoidance and general tips for family wellness. And if you do fall under the weather, remember that timely treatment is paramount.

In previous LeBauer posts, several tips for avoiding the flu were shared. Click here to learn how to avoid the flu and colds this season. The advice is practical and easy to follow, and includes making your appointment for a flu shot at one of the LeBauer Primary Care flu clinics.  Visit our website for information on extended hours and to find an office location near you.

Stay Warm, Stay Well

The safety of your environment often plays a role in your overall health. Even if you live or work in a high-risk setting, simple steps can be taken to prevent your chances of falling ill. These include wiping down high-touch surfaces with virus fighting wipes and washing your hands frequently. Protecting your environment also entails preparing for harsh winter weather. The CDC has some valuable recommendations which include:

1)  Equipping your home with flashlights

2)  Preparing your car with tools and snacks, should you get stuck

3)  Heating your home in a safe way

4)  Creating or purchasing a first aid kit to keep on hand

5)  Ensuring your water source before a big storm

Our Doctors are here to help!

With icy roads and walkways, there is also an increase in accidents and injuries at this time of year. A heightened awareness can lessen your chances; however, if you do get hurt, Dr. Zach Smith is here to help you recuperate quickly. Dr. Smith’s family medicine background coupled with experience treating a wide range of physical conditions allows him to address each patient using a holistic approach.  As a primary care sports medicine doctor, patients do not need a referral to see Dr. Smith. For more information on preventing injuries or for treatment of new or existing injuries, call us today to make an appointment.

 

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Dr. Gutterman discussed how to avoid overeating due to stress with FOX8 this week.  Watch Dr. Gutterman’s Interview  for answers on how to manage your stress and eating.

Dr. Gutterman is the Clinical Director of Behavioral Medicine and provides services at our Elam location. A licensed psychologist, he has more than 20 years experience in treating adolescents, adults, couples and families. He offers confidential treatment to meet your specific needs.

 

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The first response often makes a life-changing difference for someone who is having a seizure. Dr. Jaffe, along with the LeBauer Neurology team, educates patients and their families on ways to help when a seizure occurs. Even if you do not have a family member with epilepsy, it is important to be aware of ways to handle this emergency situation and keep a patient safe. The last blog posts from LeBauer shared information to help you recognize when a seizure is occurring, and this post will help you prepare to respond with ten simple steps.

10 Steps for the Seizure First Responder:

1) Keep calm and prevent injury.

2) Remove items that may get in the way of the person’s breathing.

3) Time the seizure with a watch to be aware of length of seizure.

4) Don’t hold a person down or put anything in their mouth.

5) Turn the person gently on their side to help keep their airway clear.

6) Only attempt CPR after the seizure ends and if the person is not breathing.

7) Stay present until the seizure ends naturally and the person is fully awake.

8) Do not offer the person water or food until seizure ends naturally and they are stable.

9) Be friendly and reassuring to them as they regain consciousness.

10) Offer to call a taxi or a friend/family member to drive them home, if needed.

When does it become an Emergency that requires you to call 911?

CDC shares information on different types of seizures and when to consider a seizure an emergency. Click here to learn more about when you should call 911.

Have you or a loved one suffered a seizure?

LeBauer Neurology is home to three board-certified providers. Specializing in complex neurological disorders such as epilepsy, they have the knowledge and skills to improve patients’ overall quality of life. If you or a loved one suffers from seizures, contact us today. If not, we hope you will share this post in honor of National Epilepsy Awareness Month.

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