What Is the Source of My Neck Pain?

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Sometimes, the cause of neck pain is simple and straightforward, and a doctor can diagnose a neck injury and offer recommendations for treatment. However, sometimes pinpointing the source of the pain can be challenging. Part of the reason is that the neck is a highly complex structure made up of cervical discs, tendons, muscles and other soft tissue, all of which can sustain injury. Additionally, the fact that the neck must continuously support the weight of the head only adds to the pain you can experience when you have a neck issue.

Understanding Types of Neck Pain

Most neck pain can be divided into two categories: neck pain caused by a single event, such as a car accident, and neck pain due to long-term “wear and tear” conditions like arthritis.

Whiplash, which often occurs during a car accident, is a result of the neck being forcibly and rapidly bent forward and backward. Those who experience whiplash, typically wear a neck brace during recovery. Whiplash can cause neck pain, headaches and dizziness. Fortunately, most neck pain due to whiplash subsides and normal functioning returns.

“Wear and tear” neck pain can have a variety of causes. It can be due to degeneration or rupture of the cervical discs. Additionally, a painful, bone-on-bone sensation can result when cartilage and other tissues erode. Pinched nerves can also be the source of neck pain.

What Do Your Symptoms Suggest?

Never try to self-diagnose a neck issue. However, it is important to take note of the symptoms you are having. That way, you will be able to describe your neck pain in greater detail, which will help your doctor during diagnosis and treatment.

Common neck conditions and injuries and their symptoms include:

  • Cervical kyphosis: An abnormal curvature in the neck. Symptoms are chronic pain and limited movement.
  • Cervical nerve compression. A pinched nerve in the neck. This results in numbness and tingling or a feeling of weakness in the hands or the arms.
  • Cervical spondylosis: A type of neck arthritis. Pain and stiffness often worsens over the course of the day.
  • Whiplash: Muscles and tendons are stretched unnaturally. Stiff neck, shoulder pain, muscle spasms and headache are common symptoms.

Finally, if your doctor prescribes a cervical collar (neck brace), be sure to follow the usage instructions carefully. The collar will stabilize your neck and can help you heal more rapidly, without the need for additional medication.

Thyroid Conditions and Digestive Problems

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On the other hand, it could be something seemingly unrelated.

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It is responsible for making and distributing thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism and help the body use energy. When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can cause a wide range of problems including digestive issues. Many people with chronic gastrointestinal problems cannot find relief because they have an undiagnosed thyroid condition.

Hyperthyroidism, or too much thyroid hormone in the body, causes bodily functions to speed up. Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are a racing heart, nervousness, hand tremors, anxiety, difficulty sleeping and an enlarged neck. Digestive symptoms of an overactive thyroid can include difficulty swallowing, vomiting, diarrhea, lactose intolerance, liver problems, H. pylori bacterial infection and weight loss.

Hypothyroidism, or too little thyroid hormone in the body, can cause the body’s processes to slow down. This may cause symptoms such as fatigue, dry skin, depression, constipation, forgetfulness and weight gain. Digestive symptoms of an underactive thyroid can include dyspepsia (chest pain), low stomach acid, poor absorption, constipation, gallstones, anemia and bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.

The thyroid gland can have a significant impact on the gastrointestinal system. A common misconception is that diet causes chronic digestive trouble and weight changes, but this may be an oversimplification. Thyroid conditions and their resultant symptoms are often complex and require ongoing treatment by an endocrinologist.

January is Thyroid Awareness Month, so make an appointment with an endocrinologist or gastroenterologist if you think you may have a thyroid condition. According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, an estimated 27 million Americans have thyroid disease, and about 13 million cases are undiagnosed. One appointment may provide the necessary insight to alleviate your digestive problems and put you on the road to better health.

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How to Maintain Your Eye Health After a Glaucoma Diagnosis

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Just remember that treating your glaucoma is a team effort, and you are not alone. January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a good time to make sure that you are “aware” of the glaucoma support that is available to you.

Visit Your Ophthalmologist Regularly

If you are taking glaucoma medication, your ophthalmologist will want to see you every 3 to 6 months. This can vary according to your specific needs, so ask your eye doctor how often you should schedule your appointments.

Keep a Copy of Your Medical Records

Many patients have no idea that they can request copies of their medical records. Keeping a copy of your records and test results can be educational and informative as you learn more about the specific tests that a glaucoma diagnosis requires. Having access to your records may empower you to ask questions and take an active role in your treatment.

Keep a Log or Journal with Questions

Between eye appointments, you may have questions or concerns. Designate a health notebook so you can document your questions and thoughts and share at your next appointment.

Enlist the Support of Family and Friends

If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, do not keep it from your family and friends. Allow them to assist you with care and provide moral support.

Do Not Settle for Less than the Best

Maintaining your vision is important, and if you have a diagnosis of glaucoma, you will be visiting your ophthalmologist more often. Be sure that your relationship with your ophthalmologist is one of mutual respect and openness. If you are not satisfied with your care, it may affect the amount of effort you put forth in the treatment process. You can always get a second opinion or choose a new ophthalmologist. Select the doctor who has a style and approach that fits both your clinical needs and your personality.

Your glaucoma treatment will be successful if you take an active role in your care plan. Educate yourself, rely on family and friends, ask questions and communicate with your doctor regularly. Learning to live with glaucoma is not easy, but it is manageable with the right support and care. 

“Get Hip” to Hip Replacement Preparation and Recovery

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This is true when it comes to hip replacement. While getting a new hip joint can significantly improve quality of life, it is important that patients prepare for and follow through with doctors’ instructions during the recovery period.

Before Your Hip Replacement

If you are having a hip replaced, here are some things you can do prior to the procedure to improve your recovery:

  • Get to a healthy weight. If you need help, talk to your doctor about effective weight loss strategies.
  • Talk to your care team. Talk to your doctor and care team to better understand what to expect post-surgery. Take notes so you know specifically what to expect during the first few hours after surgery, that night in the hospital, within the first two to three days after the surgery, and over the long-term.
  • Find a caregiver. Find a friend or relative who can come to your home and help you in the days after your hip replacement. Explain what you will need help with, such as cooking or laundry. Review the notes you have taken with your caregiver too.
  • Stay active. Try to maintain regular physical activity since it can help decrease your recovery time. Swimming is often recommended, since it is low-impact and easy on the joints.

After Your Hip Replacement

Here are some things to remember during your recovery:

  • Get as comfortable as possible and rest. If you are uncomfortable, your caregiver may be able to use pillows or special devices to help hold your hip in its proper position. Do the things that help relax you, such as listening to soothing music or warming yourself with a blanket.
  • Try not to become frustrated with your limited mobility. Remind yourself that it is not possible to “jump ahead” in your recovery, and it will literally be step-by-step as you move ahead. Encourage yourself by celebrating the small victories.
  • Follow through with exercise recommendations. As you recover, you will likely work with a physical therapist. He or she will guide you through movements and teach you exercises to do at home. It is important to carefully follow this professional advice.

Finally, remember that healing time is different for everyone. Although complete recovery typically occurs within three to six months, it varies depending on your overall fitness level and health.

 

Why do I get Sulfur Burps and How Can I Prevent Them?

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How sulfur burps occur

The rotten egg smell associated with sulfur burps comes from hydrogen sulfide gas. When bacteria in the mouth and digestive system break down food, new compounds form. Hydrogen sulfide is one of the byproducts of digestion. While occasional hydrogen sulfide production is normal, excessive production is often an indication of a digestive issue.

Specific causes of sulfur burps

Sulfur burps can be caused by many conditions including stress, reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and bacterial infections like H. pylori. Certain foods can also cause sulfur burps such as broccoli, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, garlic, dairy products, milk, and beer.

How to prevent sulfur burps

The best way to prevent sulfur burps is to find out what is causing them. Keeping a journal about your foods and daily habits can be an effective way to isolate the cause of your sulfur burps. If you notice that certain foods are aggravating your condition, you can try removing those foods from your diet temporarily. If you are experiencing a stressful time in your life, journaling may help you look back on the most stressful days to see if there was a connection between your anxiety and digestive distress.

If you cannot isolate the underlying cause of your sulfur burps with journaling, you may want to enlist the help of your spouse, partner, or someone who lives with you to see if he or she could help observe you and provide insight. If you still cannot find the connection, contact a gastroenterologist. There are several tests that can help identify the source of your digestive problem.

Home remedies

Some individuals have found relief from sulfur burps through natural home remedies. While there is no guarantee that these treatments will work for everyone, these remedies are safe to try and will not exacerbate your condition.

  • Tea — Green tea, peppermint tea or chamomile tea can aid digestion and have been known to reduce sulfur burps.
  • Water — Stay hydrated. Sufficient water protects the stomach from bacteria and can help the digestive system break down heavier proteins and sulfur-containing foods.
  • Manuka honey — This unique honey can protect the digestive lining, eliminate harmful bacteria in the gut and relieve digestive distress.
  • Apple cider vinegar — A spoonful of apple cider vinegar per day can help regulate the growth of bacteria in the digestive tract and keep digestion balanced (source: Medical News Today).

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Test Your Glaucoma Knowledge with a Glaucoma Quiz

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True or False: Glaucoma is caused by elevated eye pressure.

True. Glaucoma is caused by sensitivity to eye pressure, and the level of sensitivity can vary from person to person.

True or False: Glaucoma is easy to diagnose because it has several distinct warning signs.

False. The most common form of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma, has no signs or symptoms in the early stages. By the time visual changes such as limited peripheral vision are noticed, significant permanent optic nerve damage will have already occurred.

True or False: There is no cure for glaucoma.

True. Surgical procedures and medications can help lower intraocular pressure, but this only helps prevent further eye damage. Vision loss caused by glaucoma is irreversible.

True or False: Everyone is at equal risk for developing glaucoma.

False. Age, ethnicity and family history all affect glaucoma risk. Being above the age of 40 (or 35 if you are African American) increases your risk for glaucoma. Your chance of developing the disease also increases if glaucoma runs in your family. Being of African or Hispanic heritage also increases your risk of glaucoma.

True or False: Comprehensive eye exams are the best way to prevent glaucoma.

True. A regular comprehensive eye exam with dilation is the most effective method to detect glaucoma early and prevent damage.

Glaucoma is called “the silent thief of sight” because it can develop slowly and painlessly. Do not take a chance when it comes to your vision. Nothing can replace a comprehensive eye exam, so make an appointment with your ophthalmologist during Glaucoma Awareness Month! 

Set Goals During Healthy Weight Week

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National Healthy Weight Week, which is recognized every January, is a great time to adopt some new healthy habits and leave those fad diets behind.

Why Maintain a Healthy Weight?

Many serious health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, joint issues and colon cancer, are linked to obesity. Being overweight or obese does not always result in immediate health issues, but it does increase a person’s risk of serious diseases in the future.

What is Your Healthy Weight?

Many factors affect ideal healthy weight: age, height, ratio of muscle to fat, bone density and more. It is helpful to understand how your body is composed to determine a healthy range. For example, if you are very muscular, you may weigh more that a person who is of identical height. That person may be considered overweight while you may not, since muscle weights more than fat.

If you are not sure what a healthy weight is for you, talk to your doctor and set a realistic weight goal together. Your doctor can help you focus on how to attain a healthy weight range.

What Lifestyle Changes Work for You?

During Healthy Weight Week, take the time to determine what healthy lifestyles are most likely to work for you. Some people are motivated by tracking their calorie intake (food) and output (exercise) with an app or wrist device. However, others may have more success with strategies such as using smaller plates or eating frequent, small portions throughout the day.

How can You Start the Year Off Right?

Here are some tips to help you start the new year off right:

  • Adopt realistic expectations for yourself and your weight. If you are not sure what “healthy weight” means for you, talk to your doctor
  • Focus on healthy lifestyle changes versus following the latest weight loss fad
  • Walk and move whenever you have the opportunity
  • Relax and get good sleep

Finally, keep in mind that developing a positive mindset and awareness about your body can contribute just as much to a healthy weight as other steps you may take. So, embrace who you are right now, make a decision to become more healthy, and then enjoy the process of moving toward better health!

New Barrett’s Esophagus Research May Assist in Diagnosis and Treatment

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Overexposure to gastric acid causes cellular changes in the esophageal lining, and this can be a precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

If you have Barrett’s esophagus, it is important to manage your condition with the help of a board-certified gastroenterologist. Less than one percent of patients with Barrett’s esophagus develop esophageal cancer, but cancer of the esophagus is aggressive and difficult to treat. For this reason, researchers are committed to learning more about how Barrett’s esophagus develops so they can diagnose it earlier.

A team of researchers from Columbia University Medical Center (CUMC) recently made an exciting discovery: the “cell of origin” for Barrett’s esophagus. Jianwen Que, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor of medicine at CUMC, and Ming Jiang, Ph.D., associate research scientist in CUMC's Department of Medicine, led the study. Using genetically altered mice that were predisposed to Barrett’s esophagus, the research team examined the gastroesophageal junction tissue for changes. The gastroesophageal junction is a specific place where the esophagus and stomach join, and this area is especially susceptible to GERD inflammation and damage.

Dr. Que and the team discovered an area of the gastroesophageal junction that had a high concentration of unique basal progenitor cells. These cells are similar to stem cells and can specialize into various types of specific cells.

Now that the team knows where to find the Barrett’s esophagus cell of origin, this new knowledge could streamline Barrett’s esophagus diagnoses. In the past 40 years, esophageal adenocarcinoma has increased by 800 percent, making it the fastest growing form of cancer in the United States. Early diagnosis and immediate intervention is imperative because esophageal cancer advances rapidly. Currently, only 20 percent of patients survive longer than 5 years after diagnosis (Source: Medical News Today). Improving Barrett’s esophagus detection and treatment could impact esophageal adenocarcinoma rates.

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Upper Endoscopy on an HDHP

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Instead of contributing your hard-earned dollars toward a healthcare network account which pays for thousands of people of varying degrees of health, you can invest that same money, tax-free, into your HSA for your own medical costs and even earn interest.

What is an upper endoscopy?

Monthly contributions to your HSA can help pay for necessary tests and procedures like an upper endoscopy. Also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), this procedure is used to determine the cause of gastrointestinal disorders and symptoms including:

  • Acid reflux
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Heartburn
  • Swallowing difficulties
  • Upper abdominal pain

Why might you need an endoscopy?

An upper endoscopy is used to diagnose or treat conditions of the upper digestive tract. This procedure is performed by a gastroenterologist – a doctor who specializes in digestive conditions. Gastroenterologists perform upper endoscopies to:

  • Investigate the cause of symptoms – Upper endoscopy can help determine the cause of nausea, vomiting, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, upper abdominal pain or difficulty swallowing.
  • Diagnose conditions – Upper endoscopy can be used to confirm or rule out conditions of the upper digestive tract. Tissue samples may be sent to a lab for biopsy.
  • Treat symptoms – Your gastroenterologist can use tools to perform procedures during upper endoscopy. This may include esophageal dilation, removal of polyps, removal of foreign objects or cauterization of blood vessels.

How much does an upper endoscopy cost?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of an upper endoscopy, so it is imperative that you do your homework beforehand. These factors include:

  • Medical code — The cost of an upper endoscopy will be influenced by how the procedure is coded. Medical codes are used to describe diagnoses and treatments and help determine costs and reimbursements. Request the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code from the doctor who is ordering the test. You will need it later.
  • Your doctor and facility of choice — Choosing an in-network gastroenterologist and an in-network facility will save you money. Also, consider having your procedure done at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) because it is often less expensive than a hospital.
  • Timing of your procedure — If you have not met your deductible, you will be responsible for the charges for the upper endoscopy. If you have already met your annual deductible, your insurance may cover the procedure, but you may still be responsible for some cost-sharing.

Questions to ask your insurance company before you schedule an upper endoscopy

Before scheduling an upper endoscopy, you should make a list of questions to ask your insurance provider to determine your financial responsibility. These questions include, but are not limited to:

  1. My doctor has ordered an upper endoscopy for me. The CPT code is _______. Would you please tell me how close I am to reaching my annual deductible?
  2. My doctor suggests that I have Dr. __________ perform my procedure. Is Dr. ___________ in-network and covered under my policy? What other gastroenterologists in my local area are part of my network? I would like to call them and price compare using the CPT code.
  3. Is ______________ [your preferred hospital or ambulatory surgery center] in-network and covered under my policy?
  4. I know that if a biopsy is needed, this will be an additional cost to me. What cost should I anticipate if this is needed? What other out-of-pocket costs should I inquire about when calling these gastroenterologists?

Shop around for the best price for your upper endoscopy

Now that you have this information, you can begin comparing costs among gastroenterologists and facilities in your area. Cost for an upper endoscopy can vary widely, even within a small radius, so take your time and call several providers. Make sure to look at physician ratings and reviews and make them an equally important component in your decision-making process. You may have to call your insurance company back and ask them additional questions before making your final choice. 

Use your HSA funds

Before you call your doctor of choice to schedule the upper endoscopy, look carefully at your HSA and verify that you have enough funds in your account to pay for the procedure. If you do not, you can speak to the billing office about a payment plan.

With some careful budgeting and planning, you can schedule your endoscopy knowing that you are getting quality care at the most reasonable price. HDHPs with HSA gives you flexibility and choice so you can make informed decisions about your healthcare.

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