Lee Edition

The thyroid is a small gland responsible for producing hormones that play a crucial role in many of the body’s systems — from cells and tissues to organs like the heart, brain, liver, and kidneys. Dysfunction occurs when the thyroid produces either too much or too little thyroid hormone. Either can disrupt the healthy functioning of vital organs — leading …

Nowadays, the importance of one’s mental health and emotional stability is a popular topic — and rightfully so. We are no longer living in a time of “suffering in silence.” It is “okay not to be okay” and ask for help. Living through a worldwide pandemic and the devastation and isolation that the collective has experienced has had lasting effects, …

By Dr. Todd Pezzi As oncologists, we are constantly seeking better ways to treat patients. Our goals are to find and incorporate more effective approaches especially for patients and diseases that currently have limited options. We must continuously follow emerging research so that we can be as up to date as possible. In this article we will review some of …

Although PTSD is a psychiatric disorder routinely associated with wars, violent crime, and physical trauma — it’s increasingly tied to natural disasters like Hurricane Ian, the COVID-19 pandemic, and even relationship breakups. From increased sleep to reduced stress, medical marijuana is a leading treatment as the world navigates a changing environment. Read along as we discuss how medical marijuana can …

Leg pain can happen to people of all ages, and it feels different for each person. Your leg pain might feel like a dull ache that comes and goes, or it might be sudden and sharp. You could have leg pain only once in a while, or it might impact you daily. Because the symptoms and causes of leg pain …

By Joe Altepeter, DPM Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a relatively common condition that affects over 200 million people worldwide, and involves nar- As temperatures are cooling off in Southwest Florida, the competition on the pickleball court is heating up. And as the intensity of the match grows, so does the risk of injury. Despite the pickleball court being considerably …

Think of wellness programming at most retirement communities, and boxing classes aren’t often top of mind. But at The Terraces at Bonita Springs, they are one of the most popular new fitness offerings – with additional classes already being added. Is boxing a good workout for seniors? According to Jennifer Meisner, director of lifestyles at The Terraces, it is. “Not …

By Dr. Melissa (Mel) Irvine, DNP – Clinical Sexologist Specializes in Sexual Medicine and Beauty Hormone replacement therapy involves the supplementation of hormones, typically estrogen and/or progestogen, but testosterone may also be used. The type of hormone used will depend on the end-goal of the therapy. It’s also possible for a combination of hormones to be administered during HRT, with …

By Dr. Melissa Houston The year 2023 will be here in just a few weeks. How do you plan to start your New Year? It’s a great time to finish things that you’ve started. Do you have college credits but for one reason or another, you didn’t earn a college degree? Does the idea of spending years to graduate make …

By Duane Wiggins, M.D. Board Certified Ophthalmologist, Cataract & Refractive Surgeon with Quigley Eye Specialists Your eyes have a natural lens. The lens bends or refracts light rays that come into your eye to help you see. This lens should be clear. As we age, most of us will develop cataracts, which is when our lens becomes cloudy. Seeing through …