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Q&A on the most lethal form of dementia

Dr. Gordon J. Rafool shares the symptoms and treatment options of Alzheimer’s disease Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in America. In Polk, 11.8 percent of Medicare beneficiaries were treated for Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia in 2013, according to Healthy Tampa Bay. We interviewed Dr. Gordon J. Rafool, a geriatrician…
Pop Quiz: Establishing a solid oral care foundation

Will your child have a future Filled with healthy smiles? Teeth add to your smile, allow you to enjoy delicious foods, and rip apart that plastic wrap off your new DVD. However, as a parent, you might be wondering whether you’re setting up proper oral hygiene habits for your child, or if the little tike…
To smile or not to smile

Dr. Karen Teston and other local experts on oral hygiene and your overall health Some folks are afraid of pain. Some know they haven’t done a good job of taking care of their teeth, and don’t want to be lectured. Still others lack cash. Whatever the reason, many avoid the dentist until an emergency arises.…

Healthy Cook: Can the right diet help with clinical depression?

SOME DAYS you just don’t feel like doing much. That’s normal. If most days are like that, it’s not normal. You could have clinical depression. A visit to your doctor is in order for a proper diagnosis. Many diseases can have symptoms similar to depression and you or a well-meaning friend or relative are not…
Reducing stress during your back-to-school shopping

THE FIRST DAY of school for public schools in Polk County is August 24. By the time this note hits the street, the pressures to have all the supplies taken care of will be felt around the region. The good news is, the Florida Senate passed a 10-day back-to-school sales tax holiday. From August 7-16,…
Healthy Smiles: Time for a back-to-school smile that shines

SMILES ARE IMPORTANT. They can boost your self-image in a way that helps you focus on what’s really important, like making the grade at school or acing that interview for your dream job. Whichever your current stage in life or goal you face, a healthy and beautiful smile can make you feel happier and increase…