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In honor of International Women’s Day, we’re working to spread the word about taking care of your breast health and encouraging the women in your life to do the same.  Heather Reimer is on a mission — a mission to educate women everywhere about breast tissue type. For women with dense breasts, knowing your breast tissue type is absolutely critical, as cancers embedded in dense breast tissue are not always detectable with a mammogram alone. Dense breast tissue requires a breast ultrasound screening to get a complete breast health picture. Whole Breast Ultrasound for Dense Breast Tissue Heather knows this firsthand. She has dense breasts, and in this video she shares her story about finding breast cancer during a breast ultrasound screening — cancer that went undetected with her mammogram screening alone. As a result of that experience, Heather founded Each One. Tell One. — a movement to encourage women to pass along this information to others and to prompt those with dense breast and implants to consult with their doctor to schedule a whole breast ultrasound screening. To schedule a mammogram or a whole breast ultrasound, call 775-982-8100.

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Menopause is something that every woman experiences at some point in her lifetime. Learn what to expect and how you can help manage the symptoms and health risks. Most women don’t experience menopause until their 50s, but certain factors such as chromosomal abnormalities, glandular problems and chemotherapy can cause early menopause before the age of 40. No matter what your age, it’s a good idea be aware of the risks and treatments available to maintain a comfortable and healthy lifestyle. Health Risks of Menopause Two of the biggest health risks posed to women who have gone through menopause are bone density loss and risk of cardiovascular disease. Bone loss can be treated with bisphosphonate and estrogens. “Calcium with vitamin D and weight bearing exercise will also limit bone loss,” says Vickie Tippett, MD and OB/GYN at Renown Health. For cardiovascular risk, a healthy lifestyle is key. Discontinuing tobacco use, getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight and diet all help reduce a woman’s risk of cardiovascular disease. Managing Discomforts of Menopause One of the most common complaints about menopause is the discomfort of hot flashes. “Hot flashes can be treated with systemic estrogen alone or in combination with progesterone or another agent similar to estrogen,” Dr. Tippett says. “Non-hormonal medications such as SSRIs and antidepressants also work.” Vaginal dryness, another common symptom of menopause, can also be treated with estrogen, estrogen-like compounds and personal lubricants. Pills, patches, creams and many other formulations are available to help alleviate discomfort. Knowing when, why and what to expect when it comes to menopause can help make the transition easier. Learn the facts about menopause in the infographic below.

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Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in women in the U.S. That’s why early detection is so important. Dr. George Krakora, a radiologist with Renown Institute for Cancer, explains what to watch for and how new technology can lead to early detection. Most women know the importance of breast health and staying current with annual breast exams, but may not know that both screening guidelines and technology is evolving. So we asked George Krakora, MD, a radiologist for the Renown Institute for Cancer, what every woman should know about breast cancer detection and which screening method is right for them. First off, when should women start getting breast exams? Generally, women should start getting breast exams using mammography or ultrasound after they turn 40 years old. But we also want women ages 18 to 39 to talk to their primary care provider and ask for what’s called a formal risk assessment to see if screening is needed sooner. And you want to make sure your care provider is giving you a breast exam starting at age 25. It’s also a good idea to be familiar with how your breasts look and feel so you can report any changes to your care provider. What are the risk factors for breast cancer? Are there any preventive steps women can take? There a few risk factors you can’t control, like your age, family history of breast or other cancers, and if you have dense breast tissue. Your risk for breast cancer increases as you get older, and most breast cancers are diagnosed after age 50. Knowing your family history is important because a history of cancer and shared lifestyle can raise your risk. Your breast density can also increase your risk: Women with high breast density are four-to-five times more likely to get breast cancer than women with low breast density. But the good news is there are quite a few things you can do to prevent breast cancer, like not smoking, watching your alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy weight with good diet and exercise. There are a lot of newer screenings out today. What is the difference between 2-D and 3-D mammography? In a 2-D mammogram, the tech takes X-rays of the breast. These pictures can show the radiologist if there are any lumps or tumors you might not be able to feel. In 3-D mammography, the process is largely the same but more X-rays are taken and it takes a few seconds longer for each image. This kind of exam detects 41 percent more cancers and reduces the number of false-positive results given to patients. This improvement in technology is great for both patients and their care providers. 3-D mammography provides better images of the breast, which allow doctors to more clearly diagnose and avoid false positives, especially in women with dense breast tissue. And what about a whole breast ultrasound. What is that? A whole breast ultrasound uses sound waves to detect cancerous tumors in the breast without using any radiation — it’s an ultrasound just like pregnant women get to check up on their baby. And the exam only takes about 20 minutes. We recommend these exams for patients whose mammograms have shown that they have dense breast tissue. Dense breast tissue can make it harder for doctors to see any abnormalities, lumps or tumors in a mammogram, so this technology ensures better early detection.

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There are some important numbers to know when it comes to good health. Learn more and receive a free blood pressure check at a primary care open house Feb. 27 at Renown Medical Group – Double R. Know Your Numbers Adults are pretty good at knowing and memorizing numbers — from passwords and PINs to addresses and phone numbers. But what about the numbers that could help save your life? Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., with 633,842 deaths attributed to the disease in 2016, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. The American Heart Association lists the vital numbers you need to monitor to help prevent heart disease as blood pressure, total cholesterol, blood sugar and body mass index (BMI). With these numbers, your doctor can assess your risk of developing heart issues such as atherosclerosis, which can lead to other serious heart conditions. Atherosclerosis is a condition wherein plaque builds up in the arteries — the blood vessels that transport oxygen-rich blood to cells, the heart and other organs. These fatty deposits clog the arteries, inhibiting blood flow and reducing the amount of much-needed oxygen the body receives. These blockages can lead to angina, coronary heart disease, peripheral artery disease and even heart attack or stroke. But knowing your numbers and keeping them in healthy ranges can mitigate your risk of atherosclerosis and other heart conditions. First things first: Make an appointment with your healthcare provider to see how you’re doing. Learn your numbers and discuss how they may increase your personal risk of heart disease: Total Cholesterol Because cholesterol contributes to the buildup of plaque, keeping your numbers in check means keeping your arteries free of blockages. Check LDL (bad) cholesterol and HDL (good) cholesterol. Your body needs low levels of LDL, but not enough good cholesterol in your system can also increase risk. You can maintain healthy numbers by staying physically active and consuming a heart-healthy diet low in cholesterol and sodium. Statins, the class of drugs used to reduce LDL cholesterol, have proven so effective that the U.S. Preventive Service Task Force recommended in November that all adults older than 40 with one or more risk factors consider taking them. Blood Pressure High blood pressure places undue strain on your heart and arteries to move blood and oxygen throughout the body. And a heart that’s working too hard can lead to stroke, heart attack and heart failure. High blood pressure cannot be cured, but it can be managed by eating a heart-healthy diet low in alcohol, staying active and maintaining a healthy weight. Blood sugar Given that the body converts most of the food we eat into glucose, or blood sugar, for energy, adding sugar to the diet can raise blood sugar to unhealthy levels and damage the heart, increasing risk of cardiovascular disease and obesity. Opt for foods that are low in fat and added sugars and, instead, get your sweets in naturally occurring foods. Let added sugars be a treat and not the norm. Body Mass Index (BMI) Your BMI is used to determine whether you’re at a healthy weight. If you’re carrying extra pounds, the heart has to work harder, which increases risk of heart disease. Losing those pounds and maintaining a healthy weight reduces the burden on your heart and blood vessels and improves your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. So eat a heart-healthy diet and get active — even if you simply walk for 30 minutes a day. Because no symptoms indicate that you have poor cholesterol numbers, high blood pressure or high blood sugar levels, getting screened and learning your numbers is vital. Your doctor can determine what healthy levels look like for you individually and work with you to develop a plan for staying in optimum ranges. That plan will include heart-healthy eating, exercise, abstaining from smoking and, in some cases, medication. It’s up to you to stick with that plan between doctor visits. Do it for yourself, but consider making a pact for a more heart-healthy, active life with a buddy. Research shows people stick with exercise plans longer when they have a partner. This article also appeared in the Reno Gazette-Journal’s Health Source Aug. 27.

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We get it – the entire world has been overwhelmed with COVID-19 vaccine information, questions and celebrations around vaccines developed to combat COVID-19 induring the past several months. It’s hard to know where to start in digesting all this news and information. But one thing is clear: healthcare experts agree that the authorized COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective and recommended to help end this pandemic. If you are passionate about stepping up in your community to encourage the vaccination efforts, we’re offering a few ideas on how you can be an ambassador. Find the Facts Content on the vaccine is abundant, but and there’s a few resources that we can all rely on to help digest the information: The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) updates its website content around the vaccine regularly, and also offerings information in Spanish. Health departments across the U.S. are leading the way in distribution logistics planning, and partnering with other providers, like such as hospitals and pharmacies, to distribute give people doses. Their websites are great resources to understand options where you live. Locally, check out washoecounty.gov/health/programs-and-services/environmental-health/covid-19-guidance for vaccine updates in Washoe County. Many providers like Renown Health and other providers are sharing content around their recommendations for the vaccine. Get answers about the vaccine types from one of our pharmacists, read common concerns addressed by experts and view videos from many doctors and other specialists on our YouTube Channel.

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Immunizations (vaccines) save the lives of thousands of children and adults annually, protecting us from illnesses that can lead to disease, hospital stays, life-long complications and even death. Not only do immunizations protect the persons receiving the vaccine, but through herd immunity, vaccines protect children that are unable to get vaccines due to illness or age and our elderly community members whose immunities may have declined. Vanessa Slots, M.D., offers insight on the importance of immunizations. Immunizations Your Child Needs (and when) Birth to 6 Months Hepatitis B: Shortly after birth, first vaccine dose Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP), Polio, Haemophilus Influenza (HiB), Pneumonia, Hepatitis B and Rotavirus: Ages 2, 4 and 6 months, boosters and vaccines One Year to 18 Months MMR and Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine: Age 1, first vaccine dose Hepatitis A, HiB and Pneumonia: Age 1, booster DTaP: 15 months, fourth vaccine dose Hepatitis, second dose: 18 months Flu Vaccine: 6 months and older, annually* *In the year after receiving their first dose, an infant will need a booster one month later. Four Years Old MMRV, DTaP and Polio, final dose: Four years of age Pre-Teen and Beyond Tdap and Meningitis: Before starting middle school, children receive these vaccines. They are also old enough to start the HPV vaccine, an essential vaccine for all young adults to protect against cancer, genital warts and cervical dysplasia.

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Renown Health has long supported northern Nevada’s LGBTQ+ community Pride events with sponsorship, and we’ve collaborated with local and regional LGBTQ+ organizations as an ally. Renown’s Pride Committee works to deepen and broaden our external and internal efforts around LGBTQ+ community engagement, advocacy, and healthcare issues related to sexual and gender minorities, which is part of the greater Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts Renown is undertaking. According to Harvard Chan School, data shows that nearly a sixth of LGBTQ+ adults feel they were discriminated against based on their sexual orientation and gender identity. As a result, this brings to light the important need for education within the healthcare setting. Renown Health is bridging the gap for our LGBTQ+ population, and we know more work needs to take place in order to become an inclusive organization. Below are a few ways we’re working on improving our response to LGBTQ+ needs, and celebrate, respect and honor our diversity by being inclusive. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion subcommittee was formed to heighten the awareness and develop a plan on how to better serve all of our diverse populations, including our LGBTQ+ patients. As the largest healthcare provider in northern Nevada, we knew that we could do a better job. The subcommittee provides us a forum to discuss ideas and develop plans to provide better care to these populations. Updated Medical Records with Preferred Name and Pronouns Of course healthcare is personal. We meet patients at their most vulnerable states. And relating to every person by the correct pronoun shows we respect their gender identity. A new medical records update supports our doctors, nurses and care team in capturing this vital information. We are now able to capture every person’s preferred name, sex and sexual orientation to better care for them. Kathleen Zaski BSN, RN, Manager of Clinical Informatics and IT Applications at Renown explains why this is so important. “Your name and identity are core to who you are as a person, and here at Renown, we aim to take care of you as a whole person and to provide the highest level of quality care to our community – all while ensuring the experience is exceptional and tailored to the individual. In other words, having the patient’s preferred name and pronoun in the medical record is important to validate their identity, and show we care, in an already high stress environment. Specifically, giving our providers easy access to the patients preferred name and pronoun in the medical record, allows them to properly address their health concerns. This also helps the health care provider foster a closer relationship with the patient. Studies have found this actually increases the quality of care by creating a more open and comfortable environment.” Gender Neutral Restrooms Mitch Harper, Senior Program Development Manager at Renown, recognizes there’s still so much more to improve upon in becoming an inclusive organization. “At the end of the day, it’s about creating a safe and welcoming environment for our community and our employees. Access to basic human services shouldn’t be contingent on an individual’s skin color, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or beliefs. Ensuring that private restrooms are equally available to everyone on our campus is just one way we can provide a more inclusive, caring space for the people we serve.” Updated restroom locations: Roseview Tower: 10 Sierra Tower: 14 Tahoe Tower: 14 Helping to Lead and Influence Change Sean Savoy, Manager of Spiritual Care at Renown "The foundation of spiritual care is compassion – being with people in need by caring, supporting, and showing empathy, and promoting a sense of well-being. Being a member of the LGBTQ+ community informs that deep sense of compassion and empathy in a very special and unique way. Our human value, social validity, the very reality of who and what we are, even our right to exist, love and just be, are often called into question. This, in turn, can cause many of us to question ourselves and wonder about our self-worth. This experience should engender compassion and empathy so that we can better recognize, listen to and meet others’ needs to help them achieve inner peace, explore coping strategies to overcome obstacles during illness or crisis, and even find new balance by re-conceptualizing themselves in the context of health and illness. I have found that the intersectionality of my gay and spiritual selves has been a blessing in my life." Matthew Maloy, Team Lead Applications Specialist at Renown “I am a Team Lead Epic analyst in the IT department that is responsible for clinical based workflows for ED, Trauma, and Critical Care and have worked at Renown for 15 years. Being a part of the LGBTQ+ community influences my daily work by ensuring the Electronic Health Record reflects best practices such as giving clinicians the ability to document a preferred name, and displaying that throughout the medical record for consistency. Having the ability to influence decisions that move our community toward human value for all of us is a priority in my daily work.” Our Mission Renown Health’s mission is to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve, including the LGBTQ+ community. We continue to build relationships to improve care, fostering better health outcomes for ALL of our patients by creating a more inclusive health system.

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Renown Health is closely following the national outbreak of the monkeypox virus and urging healthcare providers to be alert for patients with illnesses associated with a rash. In working with the Washoe County Health District (WCHD), Renown is closely monitoring the spread of monkeypox in the community and looking to prevent and reduce the spread of monkeypox. To help to ease worries, we consulted with Paul De Leon, Infection Preventionist at Renown Health. What Exactly is Monkeypox? Monkeypox is a rare viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus — the same family of viruses that causes Smallpox. Although symptoms are similar to Smallpox, monkeypox symptoms are milder and rarely fatal. However, it's important to mention that this virus can be more severe for these susceptible groups: Immunocompromised Pregnant women A fetus or newborn baby Women who are breastfeeding Young children Those with severe skin diseases such as eczema How is Monkeypox Transmitted? The monkeypox virus is not easily transmitted but occurs through sustained person to person close contact with an infected individual. Monkeypox can also be transmitted through direct contact with infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids. Monkeypox can also be spread through prolonged intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling or sex. Lastly, monkeypox can be spread through contaminated linens or bedding. Transmission through respiratory secretions is uncommon but has been reported after prolonged face-to-face contact with symptomatic individuals. In addition, pregnant women can spread the virus to their fetuses through the placenta. Monkeypox Testing If you think you have monkeypox, contact your primary care physician or other medical providers to obtain testing. Notify the provider ahead of time before entering the physical office. Signs & Symptoms This current outbreak of West African monkeypox does not have the typical presentation of classic monkeypox. Symptoms usually appear one to three weeks after infection and include: Pimple-like rash or blisters on the face, inside the mouth, and on other areas of the body, like the hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus. The rash will go through serval stages, including scabs, before healing and may be painful or itchy. Other symptoms of monkeypox can include: Fever Headache Muscle aches and backache Swollen lymph nodes Chills Exhaustion Respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough Symptoms of monkeypox may occur before or after a rash with some individuals only report experience a rash. Individuals with monkeypox are infectious once symptoms begin and remain infectious until lesions form scabs, scabs fall off, and a fresh layer of skin forms. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

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Do you know your blood pressure numbers? Dr. Michael Bloch explains how maintaining healthy numbers are important for good quality of life and increasing longevity. High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects 85 million Americans – that’s one in three people. Left untreated, it can lead to serious and sometimes life-threatening health concerns such as vision loss, kidney disease, heart failure, heart attack and stroke. But what is it, exactly, what makes it go up and why is that increase in pressure so dangerous? All About Blood Pressure In order to function properly, your body requires a continual supply of oxygen rich blood, which is goes to organs and tissues via blood vessels called arteries. Your beating heart produces the force (or pressure) your vessels require to move blood. This is your blood pressure. Your blood pressure numbers reflect two forces at work – the pressure created as blood is pumped throughout the body (systolic) and the pressure when your heart is at rest in between beats (diastolic). A normal, healthy reading shows a systolic level at 120 or below over a diastolic level of 80 or less: 120/80. An increase in pressure occurs slowly over time, straining the circulatory system and forcing the heart, blood vessels and tissues to work harder. This friction damages blood vessel walls and lets plaque buildup from LDL cholesterol, setting the stage for hardening of the arteries. As more and more plaque builds up, your blood vessels narrow, further raising blood pressure, damaging the circulatory system and increasing your risk of serious health conditions. The Silent Killer High blood pressure is known as a “silent killer,” as most people with it have no symptoms. In fact, one in six of those affected don’t even know they have the condition. That’s why it’s so important to know your numbers. The only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to have it measured, either by a health professional or using a home monitor. If your numbers are high, there are things you can do to help lower it – it is treatable, but not curable. You can manage it with medications and lifestyle changes including: Adhering to the Mediterranean diet Decreasing sodium intake Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption Increasing exercise and activity levels Losing weight Prevention and Genetics Even better? High blood pressure doesn’t just happen. You can prevent the condition altogether. How? Know your numbers and know your risk. Look at your family medical history. Genetics certainly increases the risk of it, but those same lifestyle choices that can improve poor blood pressure can also prevent you from developing it. So if your numbers are good, keep them that way – eat well, move your body, maintain a healthy weight and drink alcohol in moderation.

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Bacterial meningitis is probably the last thing on your mind as you help your child prepare for college. Buying books and stocking up on necessities may top your list, but it’s a good idea to ensure your student is up-to-date on their meningitis vaccine. How Bacterial Meningitis Spreads According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people living in close quarters are more likely to spread this illness to one another. For example, you may have heard about the higher risk of meningococcal (or bacterial) meningitis for new college students. The risk is so serious that many colleges and universities require proof of a vaccine for new students moving into campus housing. This includes the University of Nevada, Reno. To clarify, all incoming freshmen under 23 years of age must show proof of their up-to-date meningitis shot. “Bacterial meningitis is considered a medical emergency, and anyone with the signs and symptoms should be evaluated in the emergency room immediately,” says Vanessa Slots, MD, Renown pediatrician. Symptoms of Bacterial Meningitis Fever Nausea Vomiting Irritability Headache Confusion Back pain Stiff or painful neck Leg pain Light sensitivity Rash on the torso or lower extremities It’s important to know many of these symptoms for both bacterial and viral meningitis are the same. However, the viral type is more common, often clearing up in seven to 10 days without complications. Nonetheless, you should go to the emergency room to be looked at, as the signs are similar for both illnesses. Why is Bacterial Meningitis Dangerous? This illness moves quickly, and in some cases, it can seem like the flu or severe strep throat and take a few days to develop. Or, it can hit in just hours. “Bacterial meningitis has an overall death rate of 10 to 15 percent despite treatment with antibiotics,” Dr. Slots warns. Another critical point is problems after recovery can also be severe. Frequently these include brain damage, amputations, infections around the heart, seizures and shock.

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Respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV, is a common respiratory virus that impacts the lungs and breathing pathways. The virus can be dangerous for infants and young children and is also concerning for older adults. While most older kids and adults only experience cold-like systems and recover in a week or two, an estimated 58,000-80,000 children younger than 5 years old are hospitalized due to RSV each year, and in 2022 healthcare organizations across the country are experiencing higher infection rates than in years past.  "RSV typically peaks in the winter, but this season we are seeing an earlier surge in cases,” said Dr. Vanessa Slots, the Division Chief of General Pediatrics at Renown. “Infants who are infected with RSV almost always show symptoms. Call your healthcare provider immediately if your child is having difficulty breathing, is not drinking enough fluids or is experiencing worsening symptoms.” Symptoms of RSV: Runny nose  Decrease in appetite/inability to drink Dry diapers, an indication of dehydration  Cough, which may progress to wheezing or difficulty breathing Irritability (most common in very young infants) Decreased activity (most common in very young infants) Decreased appetite (most common in very young infants) Apnea, pauses in breathing for more than 10 seconds (most common in very young infants) What to do if you think your child has RSV: Call your pediatrician! If you suspect your child might have RSV, consulting their healthcare provider is the best first line of defense. From here they will help you build an appropriate treatment plan for child. Keep in mind that many pediatrician offices offer 24/7 call lines.  If your child is experiencing retracted breathing (when the area between the ribs and in the neck sinks in when a person attempts to inhale), dehydration (not drinking and decrease in wet diapers) or apnea (pauses in breathing for more than 10 seconds) please call 911 or go to the closest emergency room.  Treating RSV from home: Clear your child's nasal pathway with a bulb syringe or saline spray/drops Stay home and rest Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration Manage fever with fever reducers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen Preventing the spread of RSV:  Good news! The biggest RSV prevention tips are almost identical to what we’ve already been doing to prevent COVID-19 – so hopefully, these actions are already second nature.   If you have young children or regularly encounter younger children, remember to:  Wash your hands often  Keep your hands off your face  Avoid close contact with sick people  Cover your coughs and sneezes Clean and disinfect surfaces  Stay home when you are sick  Get vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19 to prevent more serious co-infections RSV is dangerous for older adults, Too Older adults – especially those over 65 years old, have chronic heart or lung disease or a weakened immune system – also need to be hyper-vigilant about RSV.  If you or your loved one is in the older adult at-risk group, remember to follow the above prevention measures and talk to your healthcare provider immediately if you suspect you have RSV.  *Data courtesy of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

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