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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.…

The “Ripe” Time for Cataract Surgery

by William Corkins, O.D. Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida Whenever I tell a patient that he or she has cataracts they immediately ask if they need to have surgery. We start thinking about cataract surgery whenever the patient’s quality of life is affected. Common complaints include, “I can’t read road signs,” or “I can’t read the…
Recipe Spotlight: Lamb and Barley Soup & Easter Ham

by Trent Rowe, Food Editor This month’s Recipe Spotlight is focused on the Easter Holiday. Like I mentioned in the April edition of Central Florida Health News, holidays always have a large buildup, then it’s over in the blink-of-an-eye and all you’re left with is leftovers. These recipes are great ways to keep that Easter…
Risk Factors for Cavities that May Surprise You

Everyone knows that cavities are caused by too much sugar and poor oral care like neglecting daily brushing and flossing, but are those the only causes? There are actually many other behaviors that can put you at a greater risk of developing cavities. Just like brushing and flossing, the majority of additional risk factors for…