Maryland's Health Matters - BWMC - Winter 2014 - (Page 4)

A HEALTHY START A Word About GERD If you suffer from heartburn two or more days a week, talk with your doctor about gastroesophageal reﬂux disease, or GERD. If left untreated, it can lead to inﬂammation, ulcers of the esophagus, asthma, pneumonia and a chronic cough. Symptoms of GERD include pain just below the ribs and a sour, burning sensation in the upper abdomen, neck and mouth. It occurs when the acidic contents of the stomach repeatedly ﬂow back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, belching and a chronic sore throat, to name a few symptoms. The good news is that GERD is treatable. For most patients, relief comes with dietary changes or medication, although surgery sometimes is necessary. It's important to note that GERD does not resolve itself, so visit your doctor if you think you may be suffering from it. FIND THE RIGHT DOCTOR-TODAY To ﬁnd a gastroenterologist, go to mybwmc.org/mhm and click "Find a Physician." Or call 410-787-4636. EASING JOINT PAIN WHEN TEMPS DROP You're probably not a meteorologist by trade, but if you have arthritis you may believe you can predict the weather. Many people with arthritis say they've noticed increased joint pain in cold, wet and foggy weather. (Studies on the subject have produced conﬂicting results, however.) PAIN, PAIN, GO AWAY! Don't let joint pain interfere with your life! To ﬁnd an orthopaedic surgeon near you and make an appointment today, call 410-787-4636. 4 MARYLAND'S HEALTH MATTERS Regardless, if you have joint pain this winter, protect yourself with these tips from the Joint Replacement Center at UM BWMC: Dress the part. Wear supportive shoes with good tread and wear warm clothing, especially around affected joints. Don't overdo it. Cold can numb joint pain when outdoors, making you more likely to push yourself too far. Take it easy on your joints. Drive safely. Arthritic joints tend to react less quickly. When driving in icy or wet conditions, plan for additional braking time. Walk with care. Slipping on snow or ice can further damage arthritic joints. Use handrails and assistive devices when necessary.  Email copies of any article to a friend! Go to mybwmc.org/mhm http://www.mybwmc.org/mhm http://www.mybwmc.org/mhm

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Maryland's Health Matters - BWMC - Winter 2014

Maryland's Health Matters - BWMC - Winter 2014
Contents
A Healthy Start
Age Appropriate
The Brain and Beyond
Your Point of View
Back on the Beat
At a Glance
News and Events

Maryland's Health Matters - BWMC - Winter 2014