Posts Tagged ‘ patientblogorangecounty ’

CEO BLOG- Matthew Perry's Untimely Death

By editor
November 21, 2023

What Lessons Can We Learn to Avoid the Same Fate?

Last night I forgot to ask my wife to join me in the Jacuzzi. I was really in hot water.

Ok, perhaps it isn't the best idea to start a blog about Matthews Perry's death with a Jacuzzi joke.

Yet I feel Chandler Bing would have approved. "If meeting my maker can be used to bring a smile to thousands of people, I say go for it- plus I wish I had thought of that joke!" This is what I suspect he would say.

By now, we have all heard the news; Matthew Perry-AKA Chandler Bing- drowned while in his Jacuzzi at age 54. 

With no evidence of drug or alcohol ingestion as the cause, the world awaits the toxicology results and the final autopsy findings. 

Assuming it wasn't due to those factors, what could cause someone to drown taking a dip in their hot tub? How likely is this a possibility for you and me?

A year ago, a 57-year-old acquaintance of mine died swimming in the ocean. Autopsy - acute heart attack- that allowed her to drown. The death was from the drowning, not the heart attack itself.

In fact, drowning after a cardiac event or by substance use is not rare. Last year there were 4000 deaths from drowning, and about half were related to cardiovascular factors. 15% were due to alcohol or drug use, and the remaining third were accidental--maybe a boat accident. And let’s not forget riptides. 

A couple of years ago, another 50- year- old acquaintance suffered a drowning while snorkeling. Autopsy? An acute stroke that caused a loss of consciousness and subsequent drowning

Was there something Mr. Perry could have done to prevent this tragedy? And perhaps more important-are there steps WE can take to avert an avoidable drowning?

To determine this, we should look at the top three probable causes of loss consciousness while in a pool or Jacuzzi, or even snorkeling in the ocean. 

1. Mr. Perry may have suffered a stroke or heart attack, which caused a temporary loss of consciousnesses. If it had occurred out of the water, it may not have been fatal. But going underwater while unconscious is pretty much a game ender. 

Mr. Perry was a former smoker, and of course a known drug abuser.  It is reasonable to think he was at a higher risk than a person who never took up those habits.  He may have had warning signs such as angina or TIA’s but not necessarily. 

Actor Joe Flynn - a heavy smoker- died at age 49 while doing laps in his pool. Baby Boomers may know him as Captain Binghamton on McHale’s Navy in the 60's. By the time he was pulled from the pool, he had drowned. He had been swimming alone. Autopsy- Heart Attack. But the cause of death was drowning.

2. Mr. Perry may have experienced an arrhythmia---an issue with his heartbeat. This is statistically more likely, and falls in three categories:

a) He may have had a "Sick Sinus Syndrome" (SSS) where an issue with his internal pacemaker slows the heart down--even into the 20's . It usually will speed up with consciousness regained. But after a minute underwater, death is probable.

b) He may have suffered with A Fib-where the heartbeat is irregular and fast- which can lead to a fainting spell. 

It is possible to have A Fib and not be aware- until it goes into a fast rhythm. Both SSS and A Fib are not uncommon after 50, and more common in smokers or with enlarged hearts, which Mr. Perry was likely to have. Both conditions are relatively easy to diagnose if we are looking for them.

c) He may have been faced with ventricular arrhythmia, AKA PVC’s. If he had several in a row, a fainting spell was likely. 

Orville Redenbacher also drowned in his Jacuzzi. He was 88--a victim of a heart attack. He was a shrewd agricultural scientist who experimented with different strains of popcorn and became a millionaire in the process of revolutionizing the popcorn industry. Although an octogenarian, he had shown no signs of ill health or cardiac disease prior to this Jacuzzi incident.

3.  A third possibility is that Mr. Perry simply fainted as he was entering the Jacuzzi or while sitting in it. With the hot temps of Jacuzzis and saunas, your blood vessels become larger.  Blood falls from the brain via gravity, and you faint. If he were already hot and possibly dehydrated from playing two hours of pickleball, add the 104-degree temps of the Jacuzzi, and a loss of consciousness that proved fatal is certainly possible. This can happen to almost anybody at any age, but people over 50 do not tolerate temperature extremes as well as the youth. 

Of course, we also recall singer-actress-diva Whitney Houston too was a victim of drowning- albeit in her bathtub. Her toxicology results revealed cocaine and Xanax that most likely led to her losing consciousness while soaking in her tub, and then drowning. 

So, what conclusions can we make about Mr. Perrys' death? Was it preventable?

Almost assuredly. 

If you feel you may be at risk, here are some steps you can take to avoid a premature death thru drowning:

1. If you smoke, stop. If you are hypertensive or diabetic, see your doctor to get them under tight control. If there is any doubt about you having hardening of the arteries (thus leading to heart attacks and strokes), consider a treadmill stress test. We do several types here at Caduceus and insurance will probably cover them. If not, the cash price is $205. Mention this blog, we will do it for a flat $200. 

2. If you get palpitations, or have a personal or family history of arrhythmia, see your doctor. Or self-order an event monitor-there are a few different types. Insurance usually covers, but if not, the cash price is less than $500. These monitors will track every heartbeat over days or weeks and analyze them. If you are prone to SSS, A Fib, or PVC’s this test should help pick it up.

3. If you have a history of fainting spells, even from seeing a snake, do not use a sauna or Jacuzzi alone. Especially if you are over 50.  (Please see joke that began this blog, ha ha!). 

Be sure you are hydrated beforehand. Dip in a pool or lukewarm shower before entering the sauna/Jacuzzi. There is a reason most hotels post signs warning against using the sauna/Jacuzzi alone, especially with a cardiac or diabetic history. 

Oh, and a trivia question-Who named the band the Rolling Stones, and was their uncontested leader in the early/mid 60's? 

If you said Mick Jagger----WRONGGGGGGG!

Brian Jones (No not the Monkey--that was Davey)-a multi-instrumental musician- would be the right answer---which if you are a Baby Boomer Rock and Roller, you knew. 

Brian was a musical genius whose alcohol and drug abuse turned the band against him, and on June 9, 1969, was kicked out. Three weeks later, he partied at his house with some friends, and enjoyed large amounts of alcohol and other illicit substances and decided to go for a midnight swim. His friends pulled him out when he appeared unconscious; his girlfriend felt a pulse. He died in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. Coroners labeled the drowning "Death by Misadventure"- thus going down in history as one of the most creative descriptions of a drowning caused by drugs and alcohol. 

In Summary, let’s revisit a scene from Friends-

Rachel: "Guess what, guess what, guess what!!??"

Chandler: "The fifth dentist caved and now they ALL recommend Trident?"

Ummm, not exactly-

1. If you haven't had your annual checkup, get one.
2. Ask about a treadmill or event monitor -it may prevent fainting in the water. 
3. Do not use a sauna or Jacuzzi alone, especially if you are over 50 or have a history of fainting.

As Chandler Bing would say: “Could the advice BE any more obvious?

Gregg DeNicola MD
CEO, Caduceus Medical Group & PDQ Urgent Care & More

 
Self-book your annual check-up, and/or request a consult with your primary care provider to review your options for either a treadmill test or event monitor. You can also request directly by live chat from our website, through your patient portal, or call our dedicated appointment line at 844-807-8558.
 
 
Gregg DeNicola MD
CEO
Caduceus Medical Group
PDQ Urgent Care & More

CEO Blog- Allergies... A Silent Killer

By editor
November 21, 2023

Many of you know I love to eat. And being Italian by heritage, I also love to cook, especially Italian food. I'm proud to have raised two doctors, one is a hemopathologist and the other an ob-gyn & Caduceus CMO. I'm equally proud that my love of cooking also spawned an executive chef. 

Although I love making up my own recipes, I admit I also love to play around with cookbooks and now possess a modest collection. I especially treasure those books signed by the author/chef.

In my collection, I have two cookbooks by the Napa chef, Michael Chiarello. One is called Casual Cooking, my favorite recipe in it is Spuma Di Tonno - a bread spread that is life- changing, and a go-to opener for any meal. (If you want the recipe, just email me and I’ll gladly share!)

The other book of his is called Flavored Oils, teaching the art of making infused olive oils. This book in my collection was autographed when Mr. Chiarello met my chef son, Ryan. It says, 
"Ryan- Infuse your cooking with passion!" 

Ryan left the book in our kitchen when he moved out, so I am claiming ownership--at least until he reads this blog and comes home to reclaim it.

Earlier this month, the culinary world was shocked by Mr. Chiarello's sudden death from an anaphylactic allergy reaction while home in Napa. He was only 61. As a physician, my first thought was, could this have been prevented?

To help solve this, a word about allergies.

Allergies may be environmental- bee stings come to mind. Or food based. The "big three" in the US are cow’s milk, eggs, and nuts. Surprisingly, shellfish is down the list aways, but definitely a player. 

When most people eat shrimp, the proteins are harmlessly digested, and all is well. But in shrimp-allergic people, there is an overreaction of the immune system to the protein--we call allergens. With a little luck, this manifests only as hives, a stuffy nose, or watery eyes. A little Benadryl, maybe a Medrol dose pack in a more severe case, and all is back to normal. 

But with enough sensitization, true anaphylaxis can occur. Once you've witnessed this, you'll never forget. It may start with the just mentioned symptoms. But it rapidly may move on to on e or more of the following:

  • feeling lightheaded or faint
  • swelling of the mouth, throat or tongue, which can cause breathing and swallowing difficulties
  • wheezing
  • collapse and unconsciousness
  • respiratory and cardiac arrest

Even scarier, in severe cases, this cascade can unfold in minutes.

To make matters worse, the prevalence of food allergies is increasing worldwide, approaching an epidemic level in some regions. In the U.S. alone, approximately 10% of children and adults suffer from food allergies.

People who know they are allergic are encouraged to carry EpiPens which usually work immediately. But what if you don't know if you’re allergic?

Luckily, people with nut or shrimp allergies have had hives or wheezing from eating these in the past, saw a doctor, were tested, and know to avoid them and also carry the EpiPen. And it is true that with each peanut or bee sting the reactions are worse, so they have a warning they may be predisposed to anaphylaxis.

However, we are now finding out is it possible to have a true allergy and not be aware of it because they are asymptomatic allergies (such as Mr. Chiarello).

This condition is sometimes referred to as asymptomatic sensitization. In many cases, people with this condition may not even be aware that they have a food or bee sting hypersensitivity. 

So yes, your body becomes sensitized with each exposure but does not cause a hive break out or wheezing attack which would alert you. You could eat shrimp many times before the anaphylactic attack manifests itself.

In Mr. Chiarello’s case, most people (including yours truly) thought--well he must have accidentally eaten something cooked in a pan that had previously been used with shellfish, or the kitchen had peanuts in it, where small grains got into his dish. If only he had an EpiPen!

But his family has gone public with the facts to encourage people to look into what allergens they may have. Mr. Chiarello had no known allergies. He had never exhibited any allergic symptoms previously.  As a chef, he enjoyed almost all foods, with no previous issues. 

He was apparently not eating at the time of his attack. There was no bee sting or contact with pets or plants. No antibiotics or other medications.  He was simply at home when the attack occurred. Even a prompt response by 911 was not in time. His doctors have told the family they will probably never know the cause of the allergic attack. 

This is not an isolated case. Anaphylaxis in people with no known allergies is one of these horror stories that make doctors shake their head. When there is no obvious or apparent cause of a reaction, it is termed idiopathic anaphylaxis.

In a recent AAFA study - one of the most accurate studies done on life-threatening reactions- found that almost 1 in 50 Americans is at risk for severe reactions. This study also found that many patients are not ready for this type of reaction.

To answer the question we posed at the start---is this preventable?  Perhaps. If you feel you may be at risk or are looking for reassurance, here are a few steps you may consider.

1. Arrange a consultation with an allergist. They may want to do testing, or just give general advice.

2. Contact us for RAST testing--a blood test. This test checks for specific IgE antibodies to determine the substances that a person may be allergic to. It is an alternative to a skin prick test; it is not often recommended because of the high number of false positives. But it is fairly easy since it is a simple blood draw.

3. The most accurate would-be a skin test, usually starting with skin pricks. We have these here at Caduceus and they test for both environmental and food allergies. It should pick up most allergies that could lead to anaphylaxis, but of course there is no guarantee.

The RAST tests and allergy tests both run $400-500 depending on the exact order and patient. If it is not covered by your health plan, due to the large number of requests we have had recently, Caduceus is discounting its usual $400 price for the skin tests to $275 until November 30th. This would include both food and environmental allergens. You may arrange a Zoom call or in-person visit with your doctor, or you can also order it yourself, and the results will go to your doctor. 

You may not feel a 2% chance of anaphylaxis is worth worrying about--or you may want reassurance you should have an EpiPen that may have saved Mr. Chiarello’s life. Either way, pay close attention to hives, wheezing, and watery eyes/nose. They are the first clues that you are at risk.

Oh, by the way, the 'tonno" in the dish of Mr. Chiarello’s that I love, is Italian for “tuna.” It is basically tuna mousse. In tuna, beta (β) parvalbumin allergen is found in the muscle. I am thinking I need the testing for that allergen for sure!

I do know that if I don't get tested, the next time I am in a restaurant, and they ask me "Do you have any food allergies?” --my answer is "How do I know?!!!

 
Self-book a consult with your provider to review your treatment options, request a consult with your primary care provider to discuss or book allergy testing directly by live chat from our website, request through your patient portal, or call our dedicated appointment line at 844-807-8558.
 
If you are experiencing hives, wheezing, and/or watery eyes or nose, seek same day treatment with a Zoom call or in-office visit at our urgent care partner, PDQ Urgent Care & More.  
 
Email for my recipe.
 
 
Gregg DeNicola MD
CEO
Caduceus Medical Group
PDQ Urgent Care & More

CMO BLOG- UV Safety Awareness Month Orange County

By editor
July 27, 2023

Summertime and the livin’ is easy…

From George Gershwin’s opera lullaby to Ella Fitzgerald’s jazzy soundtrack right up to Sublime’s beach-rock sensation, “Summertime” has been synonymous with sunny, soothing goodness. Then Lana Del Rey came along and introduced “summertime sadness”, and who knows what to think?

Here at Caduceus we prefer the former, brighter version – but it does come with some precautions. So this summer we’ll give you all the health tips you need to keep the livin’ easy and avoid sizzlin’ like a snare.

First, let’s talk sunscreen.

You saw in our monthly newsletter that July is UV Safety Month, which means paying extra attention to protecting your skin from the sun’s damaging UV rays (both UVA and UVB). When it comes to sunscreen there are two basic types: chemical and physical.

Chemical sunscreens are like a “sponge” – sinking into your skin and absorbing UVB rays before they get to your tissue. They tend to be more popular because, well, they are simpler to wear and don’t leave filmy residue. But there are some caveats: the chemicals need time to work so apply 30 minutes before sun exposure; they do not filter UVA rays (which can cause wrinkles); some of the chemicals themselves are a problem so look for a “parabens free” label to avoid hormone disrupting effects.

Physical sunscreens act like a “shield” – creating a physical barrier that sits atop the skin blocking both UVA and UVB rays. Because they don’t absorb into skin these are often good choices for people with sensitive skin, for pregnant women, and children. The only real downside to these are the pasty white residue; there’s a reason the lifeguards use them!

Whichever sunscreen you choose there are a few common rules:

  • Reapply every 90 minutes
  • Use SPF 30 or higher
  • Wear sunscreen every day – dermatologists agree that this is the best habit for healthy skin. Many face moisturizers have sunscreen for this reason. Remember UV rays get through office windows, car windows, and are present on cloudy days.
  • Any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen – the best sunscreen is the one you wear.

You can see more details about sunscreen and beauty products with the CMO interview in Laguna Beach Magazine.

Second, we’ll review overall summer health.

Wearing sunscreen is just one step to protecting your skin while enjoying the sunshine. Other considerations are just as – or even more – important.

Timing – the best sunscreen is avoiding the sun altogether. Yes we know it’s Southern California and you want to enjoy it! But be mindful of peak sun exposure: 10a to 4p. Also you should download the OSHA Heat Index app to keep track of local alerts.

Remember: everyone is at risk for overheating – especially people over 65 years old, those with medical conditions like asthma and heart disease, and pregnant women. Check out the CMO interview with Emmy-winning meteorologist Miri Marshall talking specifics on heat and health.

Hydration – you probably learned growing up to drink 8 glasses of water per day. Based on good evidence? Not really. If you were looking for a number something between 2-3 liters would be closer to the right answer – but the best advice is to drink water well ahead of thirst. If you’re feeling thirsty you’re already behind. Water containers like glass and ceramic are preferred over plastic bottles especially for daily consumption.

Clothing – in some ways this is the best sunscreen of all. It doesn’t mean wearing big heavy clothing on a hot day. Brimmed hats, light colored long sleeved shirts, cover-ups, and UV-resistant clothing all get the job done.

Air Quality – don’t forget about the air pollution. It’s not just Canadian wildfires blowing smoke our way; some types of air pollution like ozone are greater during extreme heat waves. Download the EPA AirNow app to get real time air quality updates and avoid times of high alert.

Summary: Summertime is one of the best times of the year in Southern California for outdoor fun and you should enjoy it. These health tips can keep the livin’ easy and worry-free while you swim, surf, and generally soak up the sunshine. Wear sunscreen everyday, avoid peak sun exposure, drink tons of water, and track apps for daily alerts on heat and air quality.

Caduceus offers complimentary skin screens to check for a specific mole or mark that could be dangerous. Make an appointment here, or visit one of our future Dinner With The Docs Skin Screen events.

Nathaniel DeNicola, MD, MSHP, FACOG
Chief Medical Officer | Caduceus Medical Group

PATIENT BLOG ORANGE COUNTY OZEMPIC

By editor
May 19, 2023

The Doubting Doc- Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro...Oh My! Weight Loss FAQ's

Let’s play a short game of Jeopardy…
 
Answer:
I need to lose weight
I'm overweight
I'm obese
I'm fat
I'm going to stop eating carbs
No, meat
No, gluten
No, dinner
I'm going to exercise more--at least twice a week
 
Question:
What does a typical doctor hear 99 times a day from their patients?
 
Especially post Covid, we are seeing more obesity than ever. Recent studies put at 80% the number of people over their ideal body weight.
 
With obesity comes obesity humor. While its felt to be in poor taste to fat shame anyone, since MY BMI is teetering around 30, maybe I should poke fun at myself.
 
Why does me remembering my diet not kick in until my 10th donut?
or
My wife and I went on a diet and lost 10 pounds combined...she lost 20 just herself!
 
We define obesity as a BMI over 30. (All you need to calculate your BMI is your height, weight, and Google.) As doctors, our advice has been very simple over the years- diet, exercise, reduce stress, and if all else fails, have surgery to shrink the stomach.
 
But weight loss surgery seems a bit extreme for most, and diet pills had their share of issues- some are not safe or are addictive. Others have poor long-term results. Most were only good for 20 pounds. Few were FDA approved for weight loss.
 
Introducing…the current game changer for weight loss in patients who need to lose 25 or more pounds!!
 
GLP-1 agonists.
 
In plain English, they reduce hunger and food intake at the biochemical level. They are considered by the medical community to be safe and effective.
 
The three most popular choices are Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. Since we don't have a horse in this race, let’s discuss each one to see if any may be right for you or a loved one. Remember, Caduceus never allows drug "detailing,” so no Laker tickets were used in preparation for this blog. Not even a coffee cup.
 
Ozempic (Semaglutide)
 
It is FDA approved for Type 2 Diabetes---it is NOT FDA approved for weight loss, but patients who take it tend to lose weight---10-15% of body weight is common. Many patients have been able to reduce or go off diabetic, lipid, and hypertensive medications with the weight loss. It requires a weekly shot and a monthly follow-up. Once weight loss is established, it is safe to continue taking it long term. In fact, going off of it risks returning to you to your original weight.
 
Wegovy (Semaglutide)
 
It is an identical version of the drug Ozempic - with a few differences. For one, the dose used can be higher, resulting in higher weight loss. For another, it IS FDA approved for chronic weight management, and NOT for diabetes. You will need a BMI of 30, or 27 plus a "co-morbidity" such as hypertension or high cholesterol for FDA approval and insurance payment. Otherwise the cost, weekly shots, and monthly long term follow-ups apply to both.
 
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
 
It is a GLP-1 agonist plus it inhibits a second peptide that curbs appetite and produces "early satiety"--i.e. you feel fuller faster. It is FDA approved for diabetes but has an application into the FDA for approval for weight loss. It is expected to be approved, which would give it the distinction of the only medication that is FDA approved for both diabetes AND weight loss. In fact, the FDA has agreed to "fast-track" its weight loss approval. It also is the same weekly shot story, but the dose can be pushed even higher than the semiglutides. In head-to-head studies, Mounjaro has the highest weight loss, but the most side effects. The cost is comparable.
 
There were "Hollywood whispers" that Adele, Rebel Wilson, and Kim/Khloe Kardashian all have used these medications successfully---but in fact all four, they deny it loudly, saying diet and exercise were the methods for their weight loss. Being trusting, we will take them at their word. We do caution our readers that it is very difficult to get a 30-pound weight loss (or more) with diet and exercise alone, especially keeping it off.
 
Since nothing is too good to be true, what are the downsides to taking these meds? I counted five right off the bat.
 
1. They are expensive unless you allow us to get insurance approval. About $450/week, maybe half that if you try to use a compounding pharmacy (see BEWARE below). That is just for the drug itself. Most office visits may be paid for by the insurance company if there is medical necessity.
 
2.They are so popular, no one takes them anymore (Thanks to Yogi Berra for the inspiration) --meaning their popularity has caused severe shortages in some areas. Finding the meds may be tough depending on the doctor and pharmacy you pick. Hopefully the shortages are being fixed.
 
3.The main side effects are GI- nausea, cramping, etc. Some report an intolerance for alcohol. Rare reports of hair loss. These seem more pronounced with Mounjaro.
 
4.To maintain the weight loss you probably will take the medication long term--and still diet and exercise. Seems there's no getting around that advice.
 
5. You ideally need an experienced provider who can help select the right medication,  know how to get insurance approval if necessary, and correctly adjust the dose monthly.
 
And now for this commercial break---endorsed by the CEO and CMO of Caduceus:
 

  • At Caduceus and PDQ Urgent Care and More, we have trained providers to assist you if you feel you may benefit from these medications.
  • We can do most of the visits via Zoom telehealth if preferred. 
  • We will assist in selecting the medication best suited for you depending on your health conditions and weight loss needed, plus the financial situation. Also, we will work hard to obtain insurance pre-authorization.
  • If a compounding pharmacy is to be used, we will vet them for you.
  • If you need a quick lesson in giving the subcutaneous shots, we will teach that to you.

My BMI is so high, when I contracted a case of flesh-eating bacteria -they died from exhaustion.


Certainly, there are various options for getting this prescription--let us offer a few cautions.

  1. There are hundreds of "online weight clinics" offering these meds with a quick ten-minute video visit. There are too many other legit choices to resort to these; we plead you to use caution.
  2. Many "clinics" offer just one drug, and have you enroll in a "subscription" model where you pay one monthly or even yearly fee to cover the compounded medication, office visits, blood work etc. Where subscriptions are great for your TV streaming, beware of using them with your health care. Most legit doctors do not need to resort to a subscription gimmick that ties you down to that provider long term.
  3. Beware of providers that do not require blood tests, do not ensure you are up to date on your screenings, or decline to offer to teach you how to give the shots. These are signs of a "mill" and should be avoided.
  4. "No need for preauthorization" advertised. Either they may be dispensing counterfeit medications, or using a compounding pharmacy that may or may not be legit.
  5. The FDA has announced they will be investigating these meds from compounding pharmacies - why?

Semaglutide is governed by the regulations that restrict compounding pharmacies from making replications of patented therapeutics.

In defiance of these regulations, some compounding pharmacies have compounded semaglutides with other medications, thinking that gets around the FDA scrutiny.

It doesn't. 

If this is all Greek to you, we get it. Just be very careful accepting "cheap" or "generic" semaglutides. If you cannot vet them, be sure your doctor can.

I for one, am not offended when I am called overweight-- I'm much bigger than that.


In Summary:

  1. At least three newer medications are available to assist with chronic weight loss management and may be FDA approved and/or covered by insurance.
  2. These medications are not addicting, not short term solutions, and recognized as safe and effective by most doctors.
  3. They all require a weekly shot, a monthly follow up, and serial blood tests - as well as diet and exercise.  
  4. There is NO evidence any celebrity has ever used any of these medications. 
  5. Be aware of possible shortages, inexperienced doctors, shady online weight loss clinics, unvetted compounding pharmacies, or poor technique at giving your own shots.

I'm so obese my blood type came back "gravy." 


Gregg DeNicola MD CEO & Chairman
Caduceus Medical Group & PDQ Urgent Care & More 


If you feel you or a loved one may be a good candidate for these medications, please reach out to us TODAY:

  • Call our dedicated appointment line at 844-807-8558
  • Request an appointment through your patient portal account
  • Live chat from the Caduceus website or app

PATIENT BLOG ORANGE COUNTY Colorectal Cancer Awareness

By editor
May 19, 2023

As we near the end of Colorectal Cancer Prevention Month, Caduceus would like to highlight for our patients that awareness of gut health is just the beginning.  With proper education and screening, colon disease can be treated, defeated, or avoided altogether.

First, let's talk about the late form to be avoided: colorectal cancer. It's the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States, but the good news is that it's also one of the most preventable. Screening tests can detect abnormal growths in the colon, such as polyps, before they become cancerous.

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that people with an average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at age 45. I know, that likely sounds too young for something like this. But for people with a higher risk, such as a family history of colorectal cancer, screening may need to start earlier.

Others who should be screened earlier are people with:

  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
  • Personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps
  • Genetic conditions like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch Syndrome

Now you might be thinking that screening sounds like a good idea, but you’re dreading that right of passage exam.  We’re here to get you through to the other side.  While colonoscopy is the most common and often the preferred method (yes with the option for medication), there are other routes including stool tests, flexible scopes, and virtual colonoscopy.  These can be discussed with either your primary care doctor or your Gastroenterology specialist.

But screening isn't the only thing you can do to prevent colorectal cancer. You can also make lifestyle changes that can reduce your risk, such as:

  • Eating a healthy diet that's high in fiber and low in red and processed meats
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Exercising regularly
  • Quitting smoking
  • Limiting alcohol consumption

You should also know that colon cancer has started to skew younger: a new study from the American Cancer Society found that 1 in 5 cases diagnosed today occurs in adults younger than 55, compared to 1 in 10 in 1995.  While no one cause has been identified – genetics, the microbiome, and low screening rates are all believed to play a factor.

So in addition to keeping up with your screening be sure to watch out for worrisome symptoms: abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, changes in the frequency, size, or appearance of stools, and rectal bleeding.

In the end, trust your gut.

Taking care of your colon is an important part of overall health. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting screened regularly, you can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.  

If your health plan requires a referral, please schedule an in-office visit or Zoom call with your primary care provider (PCP).  You can book directly from the button below or request an appointment through your patient portal.

If your health plan does not require a referral, you can book a Zoom call with our GI advanced care practitioner for your colonoscopy screening, that would be needed prior to booking your procedure. You can request an appointment from the button below or request directly through your patient portal. 


Nathaniel DeNicola, MD, MSHP, FACOG
Chief Medical Officer | Caduceus Medical Group

CMO PATIENT BLOG ORANGE COUNTY- RSV FAQ's AND WHO IS HIGH RISK?

By editor
January 13, 2023
Aw-chew!
Uh oh.  Well maybe it’s nothing…
 
Aw-chewww!
Ok that was a good one.  That’s it, get it all out of the system.  Two sneezes and off to wor…
 
Aww-chewwwwy!
Oh boy.  What do I do now?
 
You’ve come to the right place.  Here at Caduceus & PDQ Urgent Care we have you covered.
 
The first thing to know is that respiratory viruses are still on the rise – yes, other than COVID-19 – particularly Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV.  This is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe respiratory illness in children, pregnant women, and older adults. 
 
RSV is a leading cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in young children and can be particularly dangerous for premature infants and those with underlying health conditions. Pregnant women and older adults with weakened immune systems are also at increased risk for severe RSV infection.
 
Symptoms of RSV infection may include coughing, difficulty breathing, and a runny nose. In severe cases, the virus can lead to hospitalization and, in rare cases, death. 
 
But not to fear, because the next thing to know is that it is preventable.  The best way to prevent RSV infection is to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.

Best Practices To Prevent Transmission of RSV

-Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
-Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and stay home if you are feeling unwell.
-Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze, and dispose of used tissues immediately.
-Clean and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces, such as toys, doorknobs, and light switches, daily to help prevent the spread of germs.
-Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, as this is how the virus can enter your body.
-Avoid crowded public places, especially during peak RSV season, which typically runs from late fall through early spring.
-Keep infants and young children away from people who are smoking or who have recently been in contact with smoke, as the virus can be inhaled in cigarette smoke.
-Avoid placing an infant in a car seat or stroller with a blanket, as the blanket can trap smoke and other pollutants close to the infant's face.
-If you are a parent or caregiver of an infant or young child, do not allow them to share pacifiers, bottles, cups, or eating utensils.
-If you are a healthcare worker or caregiver for high-risk individuals, wear a mask and gloves. 

Let’s examine more who should be most careful during this RSV season.  
 
Children are at the greatest risk for RSV infection, especially those under the age of two. Premature infants and those with chronic lung or heart conditions are particularly vulnerable to the virus. It is important for parents to be aware of the symptoms of RSV and to seek medical attention if their child is showing signs of infection.
 
Pregnant women are also at increased risk for severe RSV infection, as the virus can be transmitted from mother to baby during delivery. Pregnant women should take extra precautions to avoid exposure to the virus, such as avoiding crowded places and washing their hands frequently.
 
Older adults, especially those over the age of 65, are also at increased risk for severe RSV infection. This is because the immune system weakens with age, making it harder for the body to fight off the virus. Older adults should take steps to protect themselves from RSV, such as getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene.

GroupRisk for RSV infection-

-Children under 2 High
-Premature infants High
-Children with chronic lung or heart conditions High
-Pregnant women High
-Older adults over 65 High 

In terms of treatment, it’s important to know that there is no specific cure for RSV infection; which is why prevention is so important.  Early monitoring by a health professional for those at high risk is the best approach.  You can augment your monitoring at home with a pulse oximeter: typical numbers should be above 95% – and contact your healthcare team right away for numbers less than 90%.  
 
Supportive care for fever and pain can be provided with medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin).  Most individuals with the virus will recover on their own within a few weeks. However, severe cases may require hospitalization and supportive care, such as oxygen therapy and fluids.
 
Also remember, your cough and sneeze might not be RSV at all.  As a recent LA Times article advised us, we are currently facing a triple threat of respiratory viruses: RSV, COVID-19, and Influenza.  While the symptoms may be similar, there are some key differences between the three infections.
 
Symptoms of RSV infection may include coughing, difficulty breathing, and a runny nose.
 
Symptoms of COVID-19 may include coughing, difficulty breathing, and fever. Other common symptoms include loss of taste or smell, body aches, and fatigue. 
 
Symptoms of influenza, or the flu, may include fever, body aches, and a cough. Other common symptoms include chills, fatigue, and a sore throat. 

Infection    (Common symptoms) (Incubation period)
-COVID-19  (Coughing, difficulty breathing, fever) (2-14 days)
-Influenza (flu) (Fever, body aches, cough) (1-4 days)
-RSV      (Coughing, difficulty breathing, runny nose) (1-7 days)

One key difference between the three infections is that some individuals with COVID-19 may not have any symptoms at all, while symptoms of influenza and RSV infection are typically present. Additionally, the incubation period (the time between exposure to the virus and the onset of symptoms) is typically shorter for RSV and influenza than for COVID-19.

In summary, RSV is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe respiratory illness in children, pregnant women, and older adults. To reduce the risk of infection, it is important to practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with sick individuals.  To have that cough or sneeze examined we at Caduceus & PDQ Urgent Care are here for you with our online chat, same-day urgent care appointments, and telehealth checks from the comfort of home. 

Nathaniel DeNicola, MD, MSHP, FACOG
Chief Medical Officer | Caduceus Medical Group
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