Lee Edition

WHAT is Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS)? PWS is a complex genetic disorder affecting appetite, growth, metabolism, cognitive function and behavior. It is typically characterized by low muscle tone, short stature, incomplete sexual development, cognitive disabilities, problem behaviors, and the hallmark characteristics—involuntary and uncontrollable chronic feelings of hunger and a slowed metabolism that can lead to excessive eating and life-threatening obesity. Those …

By Joseph Gauta, MD, FACOG Until recently, pelvic organ prolapse (POP) was rarely addressed because women were reluctant to discuss the embarrassing symptoms. POP is one of the most common disorders women will face in their lifetime. Today, many gynecologists and primary care physicians routinely screen women for symptoms, and a new surgical specialty of urogynecology has arisen to treat pelvic …

By Dr. John C. Kagan, M.D. Spring is here, and with this time of year come many of the popular sports activities that we know and love. The great advantage  of living in Florida is the endless opportunities to get outside and remain active, but with this opportunity comes the responsibility to ensure that we are taking care of our …

Q&A  with Hazelden in Naples, Executive Director, Brenda J. Iliff, MA Q: Why is the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation enhancing the treatment of opioid dependence? A: As a leader in the addiction industry, The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation continues to respond to the national epidemic of addiction to opioids, including prescription painkillers (OxyContin, Vicodin, Demerol, etc.) and heroin, and a …

By Ramon Gil, M.D. As scientists and medical researchers continue to make progress searching for the cause(s) of Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and ways to eventually “cure” this illness, the treatment has become not only more effective, but more specialized, requiring from both:  patients and treating neurologists, a more comprehensive understanding of the different aspects of this complex disease. The amount …

By Steven J. Gibbs, Esq. Hello Friends & Colleagues! It is common knowledge among estate planning professionals that reducing the size of larger estates is a key component of limiting the Federal Estate Tax exposure.  Estate reduction may be accomplished through gifting to individuals and other entities, such as Irrevocable Trusts, or pursuing other “spend down” strategies. However, not always …

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) has grown in prevalence over the last decade and is now the third leading cause of death in America. When diagnosed with an incurable chronic illness, people tend to search for alternatives to traditional medicine. The quest for treatment options can leave a patient feeling overwhelmed. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate symptoms, creating a vicious …

By Joseph Kandel, M.D. When I see a patient for the first time and mention to them I feel they may have Parkinson’s or a related condition, that is the last thing the patient hears. They think that their life is over, they won’t be able to get out of the bed or the wheelchair, and won’t be able to …

By Yollo Wellness Where does it all start? This important question can determine the success or failure of medical treatments so we better get it right. Actually there are several starting places to chronic illness but the one I want to talk about here starts in the stomach. There is an obvious symptom which starts screaming at us with a …

By Debra K. Brinker, RN There is an intricate interplay between the various structures of a joint, where injury to one area affects other areas of the joint. When a supporting structure, such as a ligament, becomes injured, the cycle of joint instability begins. This initial injury can cause wear and tear to other areas, furthering instability, until the joint …