Does Alzheimer’s Disease Cause Vision Problems?

by

A new study, published Acta Neuropathologica, is helping researchers understand the complex relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and the retina, particularly in the earliest stages of cognitive decline.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, and it impairs thinking, behavior and memory. Over time, symptoms of Alzheimer’s will make daily tasks more difficult. About 60 to 80 percent of people with dementia have Alzheimer’s, and doctors diagnose about three million new cases of Alzheimer’s each year. There is no single test that can diagnose the disease, and there is no cure. The newest and most advanced treatments only slow its progression.

Alzheimer’s and its effects on the brain

Alzheimer’s prevents nerve cells, or neurons, in the brain from functioning efficiently. Scientists aren’t sure how the process begins, but two anomalous structures called plaques and tangles begin damaging and killing neurons. Plaques are a buildup of proteins called beta-amyloid that accumulate in the space between nerve cells and interrupt cell communication. Tangles are twisted fibers of a different type of protein that also collect inside neurons.

Link between Alzheimer’s disease and retinal health

Researchers from Cedars-Sinai Hospital wanted to learn more about the connection between the brain and the retina in patients with Alzheimer’s. The team examined retina and brain tissue samples from 86 donors with confirmed Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment. They compared those samples with samples from donors with normal brain function and those with advanced Alzheimer’s disease.

The research team analyzed the patients’ retinas and brain tissue and found an excess of a protein called amyloid beta 42 that disrupted brain function. They also found an accumulation of amyloid beta protein in ganglion cells, which are responsible for transmitting information between the retina and the optic nerve.

“The retina, a developmental extension of the brain, offers an unparalleled opportunity for affordable, noninvasive monitoring of the central nervous system,” said Yosef Koronyo, MSc, research associate in the Cedars-Sinai Department of Neurosurgery and first author of the study. “And with the help of our collaborators, we discovered the accumulation of highly toxic proteins in the retinas of patients with Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment, causing severe degeneration of cells.”

The researchers hope that learning more about the brain and retina in patients with Alzheimer’s may lead to a clear diagnostic for Alzheimer’s as well as effective treatments.

Schedule an eye exam during Healthy Vision Month

Did you know that May is Healthy Vision Month? The National Eye Institute and Centers for Disease Control encourage all Americans to prioritize healthy vision and get an annual comprehensive eye exam with dilation.

Your ophthalmologist can detect refractive errors like nearsightedness or presbyopia, a condition that makes it difficult to see things up close. Eye exams also include screenings for common eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy or age-related macular degeneration.

Celebrate Healthy Vision Month by calling your eye doctor to make an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam. It takes less than an hour, but it provides a lifetime of benefits — clear, healthy eyesight!

Colon Cancer Facts and Statistics to Save Your Life

by

Colorectal cancer (also more commonly referred to as colon cancer) is the fourth-most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second-leading cancer killer in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

What are the chances I will get colon cancer?

Colon cancer affects men and women equally, and your risk increases as you get older.

However, COLON CANCER IS PREVENTABLE. Regular screenings for colon cancer – in the form of a colonoscopy – can detect and remove potential pre-cancerous polyps before colon cancer starts, and detect colon cancer in its earliest stages to treat it with better results.

The 5-year relative survival rate for early-stage colon cancer (stage I and II) is 90 percent. Colon cancer screenings save lives.

What causes colon cancer?

There isn’t a consensus on exactly what causes most colon cancers. According to the Mayo Clinic, colon cancer begins when healthy cells in the colon develop changes in their DNA, then continue to divide and can accumulate into forming a tumor.

What are the risk factors of colon cancer?

Stay informed about your risks to monitor your possibilities to develop colon cancer:

  • Age. Although cases are becoming more prevalent in younger ages, everyone should be screened for colon cancer with a colonoscopy by age 45.
  • African American race. In general, African Americans have increased prevalence of colon cancer compared to other races…but this may be due to lack of early screenings.
  • Personal history. If you’ve already had colon polyps, you remain at increased risk to develop polyps again that could potentially turn into colon cancer.
  • Family history. If a close blood relative has or had colon cancer, you may be at increased risk to develop colon cancer yourself.
  • Intestinal conditions. Any inflammation in your bowels (like Inflammatory Bowel Disease) should be monitored for colon cancer risk.
  • Lack of movement. Regular physical activity helps maintain health in general.
  • Low-fiber diet. Fiber helps keep things moving in your intestines and plays a big part in keeping your colon healthy.

What are symptoms of colon cancer?

Most times, colon cancer has no symptoms. Most people don’t feel any polyps in the colon when they develop. However, be mindful of any symptoms and always talk to your doctor if you have:

  • Change in bowel habits
  • Bloody stools
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • The feeling your bladder doesn’t empty
  • Abdominal pain or cramps
  • Unexplained weight loss

Get screened for colon cancer

A colonoscopy is a quick, relatively painless procedure that can PREVENT COLON CANCER. Schedule yours today if you’re 45 (even if you have no symptoms) or have increased risk factors. Our team at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan, is knowledgeable and provides high-quality colonoscopies as our specialty.

What’s the Difference Between IBS and Colon Cancer?

by

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can have symptoms similar to colon cancer, so it is imperative to know the symptoms of GI conditions and visit your doctor for evaluation.

What is IBS?

IBS is a cluster of symptoms that occur together, including abdominal pain and a change in bowel habits, like chronic diarrhea, constipation or both.

IBS affects 10-15 percent of the population, and up to 45 million Americans live with this GI condition.

Similarities between IBS and colon cancer

GI distress can be embarrassing and confusing. Sometimes knowing how long you should wait before calling a doctor is difficult.

IBS symptoms can mimic other digestive problems like colorectal cancer. They can share similar symptoms and warning signs, such as abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, constipation, bloating and diarrhea. However, symptoms like unexplained weight loss or blood in the stool could be an indication that you need additional testing.

Other potential warning signs for colorectal cancer — the blanket term for colon cancer or rectal cancer — include the following:

  • A feeling that you are constantly full
  • Feeling that the bowel is not fully emptied
  • Urge to have a bowel movement when not needed
  • Persistent gas pain
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Anemia from blood loss

Get regular colonoscopy screenings

Because both IBS and colon cancer can be serious, you should not dismiss your symptoms or try to diagnose yourself. Instead, you may need a colon cancer screening to rule out colon cancer.

Colonoscopy is the best colon cancer screening test because your doctor can view the entire colon and remove precancerous lesions, called polyps, during the exam.

Adults at average risk for colon cancer should get a baseline screening at 45, but those with a family or personal history of polyps may need to get screened sooner.

Call your gastroenterologist for an appointment

Do you have recurrent abdominal pain and bowel problems? April is IBS Awareness Month. The only way to determine whether you have IBS, colon cancer or another digestive disorder is to visit your gastroenterologist.

At your visit, your GI doctor can review your symptoms and your medical history, as well as perform a physical exam. Your doctor may recommend some dietary changes to help treat symptoms of IBS, like avoiding gluten and increasing your fiber intake. You may need some tests to rule out certain health conditions, but your doctor will discuss these details at your appointment.

Filed Under: News Tagged With:

Can You Eat Your Way to Healthier Vision?

by

With our aging population, the CDC estimates the number of people with blindness or vision impairment will double by 2030. As people live longer, it is imperative to prioritize vision health as a part of preventive care.

Common eye conditions that can affect your vision

Many eye diseases develop slowly and without notice. Some of the most common degenerative eye conditions include the following:

  • Cataracts — Caused by a clouding of the eye lens, cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in the U.S.
  • Glaucoma — This family of eye diseases damages the optic nerve and can cause permanent vision loss without pain or symptoms.
  • Age-related macular degeneration — This condition deteriorates the macula, the light-sensitive area located in the central retina.
  • Diabetic retinopathy — The leading cause of blindness in American adults, diabetic retinopathy damages blood vessels in the retina.

Foods that can protect your vision

You can fight eye disease with your fork! One of the few ways to prevent or delay age-related eye diseases is to supply the body with foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds that delay oxidation, a process that causes cells to age and die.

Studies show that foods rich in vitamins A, C and E as well as zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce your risk for cataracts, macular degeneration and even dry eye.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is vital for good vision, strong immunity and healthy skin. Good sources of vitamin A include tomatoes, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, red bell pepper, mangoes, milk, eggs and beef liver.

Vitamins C and E

Both vitamins C and E are antioxidants that can prevent eye damage from free radicals. If you want to increase your vitamin C intake, eat citrus fruits, red peppers, tomatoes, strawberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower.

Excellent sources of vitamin E include almonds, sunflower seeds, wheat germ oil, peanut butter, spinach and collard greens.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

These two plant pigments protect the retina from ultraviolet light damage. They act like sunglasses for the eye and protect the macula in the retina’s center. Getting enough lutein and zeaxanthin can help you prevent age-related macular degeneration, so eat lots of broccoli, peaches, mangoes, berries, spinach and Swiss chard.

Riboflavin (B2)

Healthy riboflavin levels can slow the progression of cataracts. Good sources of riboflavin include meat, nuts, cheese, eggs, mushrooms and fortified breakfast cereals.

Zinc

Zinc is essential for maintaining healthy eye tissue. Zinc-rich foods include lentils, beans, seeds, seafood, dairy products, eggs and meat.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids strengthen the photoreceptor cells in the retina and reduce inflammation that can lead to dry eye disease. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, albacore tuna, trout and halibut. You can also get omega-3s from plant sources like walnuts, canola oil, flax and chia seeds.

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam

A yearly comprehensive eye exam is just as important as your annual physical. Call your ophthalmologist today to schedule an eye exam with dilation. When you go in for your appointment, ask your eye doctor for more nutritional tips to benefit your vision.

Mobility Improves After Hip Replacement

by

Morehead City, North Carolina, resident John Bolt III has enjoyed dancing with his wife since their wedding day 54 years ago.

That feeling changed about three years ago when he started experiencing chronic pain in his right hip and back.

“For the last three years, prior to surgery, I pretty much wasn’t able to really get out there and dance,” Bolt said. “It was just too painful.”

His chronic pain also limited his time outdoors playing golf with his friends.

“I had to quit golf. It was just too painful to do that hip movement in a golf swing,” Bolt said. “And I really missed that because, you know, that’s a social activity as well as some physical activity.”

Walking around his neighborhood with his dogs and other daily activities proved challenging for Bolt because of joint pain.

“I wasn’t able to walk as much. I continued to try to walk just because I felt like I needed to do it, but it just got more and more painful,” he said. “It wears you down mentally and emotionally over time.”

Initially, doctors thought Bolt may have had a sciatic nerve problem in his back, but X-rays revealed the problem was actually in his hip.

Explore treatment options

Bolt had a successful knee replacement a few years ago, so he consulted his orthopedic surgeon, Thomas E. Bates, MD, about treatment options for his hip.

Generally, initial treatments to manage chronic pain may include physical therapy, activity modification, anti-inflammatory drugs and sometimes injections in joints, Dr. Bates said. A doctor may recommend hip replacement surgery if a person has one or more of the following:

  • Pain that limits everyday activities
  • Pain that continues while resting
  • Stiffness that limits the ability to move or lift the leg or
  • Inadequate pain relief from anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy or walking supports
Hear More From Dr. Bates on The Surg Podcast

Based on his diagnosis, Bolt opted for total hip replacement surgery. This procedure replaces damaged bone and cartilage with prosthetic components called implants.

“The pain had gotten chronic, and it just never goes away. And that’s pretty mentally debilitating as well as physically debilitating,” Bolt said. “I was really ready to try to get something done to get rid of the pain and to become active again.”

Surgery relieves pain and improves mobility

According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, more than 450,000 total hip replacements are performed each year in the United States.

In February 2022, Bolt underwent the procedure in an outpatient setting. He was discharged from the surgery center the same day to start his recovery and physical therapy at home.

Within three weeks after surgery, Bolt had transitioned from using a walker to a cane and then to walking unassisted. After six weeks, doctors released him to play golf.

“I was pleasantly surprised how quickly I was able to recover,” he said. “If you have the opportunity to recover at home, I mean that seems like a win-win … I certainly got back into our own lifestyle much quicker and with a lot less frustration and tension.”

More than a year later, Bolt has significant pain relief and improved mobility. The Bolts enjoy date nights and dancing together again.

“One of the first things after I got released is we went to one of the local performances and actually got out there and danced for a couple hours. So, that was a good feeling,” Bolt said.

He and his wife walk about two miles every day with their dogs, and he plays golf sometimes twice a week when the weather is suitable.

“I love to hear a patient tell me ‘I wish I would have done this sooner.’ We hear that frequently,” Dr. Bates said. “I love to hear the fact that they get back to the things they love to do in life.”

Don’t delay your treatment

After his successful hip replacement, Bolt said it’s important not to delay treatment when you suffer from daily chronic pain. Before deciding on any treatment plan, it is important to discuss options with your doctor.

“When [hip pain keeps] you from doing anything that involves any type of walking or movement … that’s just not a way to live,” Bolt said. “Get [surgery] done, and then really work at the rehab part. I think that’s important. It gets you back to normal as quickly as possible.”

If you are considering joint replacement, Dr. Bates recommends talking to patients who have had the surgery to gain some insight into their experience.

“Most people have excellent experiences and they’re very happy with their decision,” he said. “It definitely is a personal decision.”

Our specialists always keep the patient in mind and look for the least-invasive and best way to repair your joints. If surgery is needed, our doctors use improved surgical techniques to increase your mobility and return you to an active lifestyle.

If you suffer from chronic pain in the knee, hip, shoulder or back, do not ignore these symptoms, or your condition may worsen. Request an appointment today for an evaluation.

This is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

Dr. Sundararajan Says Colonoscopy and Early Detection Are Crucial to Preventing Colorectal Cancer

by

Subha Sundararajan, MD, a gastroenterologist at the Endoscopy Center of Red Bank, knows most patients don’t look forward to their colonoscopy. But experience has taught her that patient education and compassionate, quality care go a long way.

“No one ever comes to the office saying, ‘Doc, I’m super excited to get my colonoscopy,’” Dr. Sundararajan said. “But once you explain to them that a colonoscopy is one of the most effective modalities we have out there for preventing colon cancer … and you show them how effective it is with the data and statics, it really helps reassure people.”

The American Cancer Society and U.S. Preventative Services Task Force recommend that patients at average risk for colorectal cancer (CRC) begin screening at age 45. Dr. Sundararajan says that decision comes down to detecting CRC as early as possible.

“So, the earlier it’s diagnosed, the more curable it is,” she said.

“So, go get your colonoscopy. I like to say, ‘Let’s make your butt beautiful, inside and out.’”

Donate to Fight Colon Cancer

by

Each year, Raleigh Endoscopy Centers sponsor the Cancer Coalition’s “Get Your Rear In Gear” 5K run/walk. The effort is to create more colon cancer awareness and the importance of cancer screening for those aged 45+.

If you’re interested in registering for the May 6 race, click here. But, if you can’t make it to the race, you can still support the cause with donations through our team of “Bum Runners.”

Here’s How it Works

  1. Click This Link to Find Our Group’s Donation Page
  2. Enter in the amount you would like to donate. Even, $1 will help!
  3. You can choose if you want your donation to be shown on our group page.
  4. Enter your payment info
  5. Click “Donate Now”

Your donation will go toward the fight to end colon cancer, while showing support for our team.

 

 

 

 

 

Everyone Needs a Nurse Bonnie

by

Bonnie Woodward, RN, affectionately known as “Nurse Bonnie,” lost her mother to colon cancer at a young age due to a misdiagnosis. She has since dedicated her life to helping save other people’s lives.

Nurse Bonnie cares for her community at the Endoscopy Center of Red Bank, an AMSURG-affiliated ambulatory surgery center in New Jersey. Through her work, she honors her mother and the countless patients she has helped prevent and overcome colorectal cancer diagnoses. One of those patients is Michele Battista, an 11-year Stage 3 colon cancer survivor who calls Nurse Bonnie her sister in blue.

“Everyone should have a Nurse Bonnie,” Michele said. Nurse Bonnie has helped care for Michele during her cancer journey, and in the process, they have become close friends.

“Colorectal cancer is beatable, treatable and preventable. Get your colonoscopy screening; it can save your life,” Bonnie said.

Colon Cancer Survivor Advocates for Timely Screenings

by

With more people being diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) at a younger age, it is now recommended that those at average risk for CRC begin screening at age 45 instead of 50.

It’s possible that Michele Battista’s life could have been different had the recommended first-time screening age been lowered sooner. Still, her decision to be screened at 50 was lifesaving.

Without any CRC symptoms, Michele scheduled a screening colonoscopy at the Endoscopy Center of Red Bank in New Jersey. She followed her prep and arrived at the center on Valentine’s Day.

“I wasn’t expecting anything,” Michele said.

Her physician discovered a peach-sized tumor during her colonoscopy. She was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer. Michele underwent surgery and 12 rounds of chemotherapy and is now celebrating her 11-year cancerversary®.

She has become a fierce advocate for early CRC detection, sharing her story and encouraging people to receive timely screenings.

“If I can get one person to go get their colonoscopy based on my story at 50, then I’m happy.”