Page 18 - Talk of Tequesta - December '23

Page 18, The Talk Of Tequesta

TaMPa general news

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: The Silent Threat

New Guidelines Advise Screenings

Could you have fatty liver disease? According to the liver stiffness, which is a those related to NAFLD. Her vast experience and unique
American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE), marker for scarring. credentials are why many local primary doctors and
individuals with risk factors such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, “This new, advanced endocrinologists refer their patients with NAFLD to her
high blood pressure, high cholesterol or metabolic syndrome preventative measure care.
should be screened for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease available through TGH Olsen is the only physician in the Palm Beach County
(NAFLD) by their primary doctor or endocrinologist. Digestive Health Center region with specialized expertise in the management of
The vast majority of Americans, nearly 96 percent with offers patients a greater patients with end-stage liver disease, both before and after
NAFLD, are unaware they have the chronic disease. When opportunity to detect liver transplantation. She treats patients with colon, liver and
left untreated, NAFLD can result in liver cirrhosis, fibrosis and treat nonalcoholic bile duct cancer; gallbladder disease; alcohol-related and
or failure, and even death. fatty liver disease as soon nonalcohol-related liver disease; drug-related liver injury;
The AACE recently released new guidelines for the as possible,” said Dr. and all forms of hepatitis.
early screening and diagnosis of NAFLD, hoping to Olsen. “Our goal is to A doctor’s order is needed for the screening, and
mitigate its progression and raise awareness to allow for provide the most up-to- patients with high-risk factors are encouraged to contact
earlier identification, disease management and referrals to date and comprehensive their primary care provider to determine if a screening
specialists. If NAFLD is detected and managed early, it’s information to our for NAFLD is appropriate. TGH Digestive Health Center,
possible to prevent it from progressing and could reduce patients, and to give them formerly TGH Gastro Group of the Palm Beaches, has
the amount of damage and fat in the liver. the greatest level of comfort and reassurance.” offices at 2001 N. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, FL
Dr. Sonja K. Olsen, a board-certified gastroenterologist Olsen brings more than a decade of experience in 33407, and 3401 PGA Blvd., Suite 500, Palm Beach
and hepatologist, is trained in the AACE’s updated providing world-class digestive and liver care, and Gardens, FL 33410. Both offices can be reached by calling
screening for NAFLD. She offers screenings at Tampa specializes in liver disease and disorders, including (561) 659-6543.
General Hospital (TGH) Digestive Health Center, formerly
TGH Gastro Group of the Palm Beaches. The pain-free
screening consists of a FibroScan, a noninvasive diagnostic
device used to measure the fat content of the liver, and MediCal MaTTers

all abouT Kids Medicare Corner With Kathy O

It’s Time For Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) Oct. 15 To Dec. 7 You May Still
Stop Yelling At Have Time To Change Plans With A Special Enrollment Period – Call Me!

Your Kids Is it time for hearing • Hearing aids, hearing exams, and hearing tests that
aids? Need new glasses?
haven’t been ordered by a doctor
Traveling outside the U.S.?
• Long-term care, such as that delivered in most nursing
Need dental cleanings or homes (custodial care)
By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., more? • Orthopedic shoes (with only a few exceptions)
School Psychologist Original Medicare does • Outpatient prescription drugs (with only a few exceptions)
“Here we go again, not include coverage for • Routine foot care (with only a few exceptions)
mom’s rocket launcher these potentially high- • Routine physical exams (beyond the annual wellness
went off and she’s yelling cost health care expenses. visits)
at me.” This statement Medicare Advantage plans • Screening tests (with some exceptions)
captures how kids I work may fill in the gaps for items • Shots (vaccinations—except those approved)
with often describe how original Medicare does not • Some diabetic supplies (like syringes or insulin unless
their mom or dad deals cover. it is used with an external insulin pump)
with them when they are Think about your healthcare needs when you read • First three pints of blood
not acting right. “Yelling this surprising list of other common services that are not • Additional charges for a private hospital room
is the only way I can get included in original Medicare. • Private nursing care
him to listen and behave,” is a common parent response. What Medicare Does Not Cover • Skilled nursing care costs beyond 100 days a year
All agree, yelling does not contribute to a peaceful home. Health care costs that are not covered include, but are • Meals delivered to the home
Yes, at times we parents must raise our voices and make not limited to: • Medical charges billed by relatives
it stern and serious. But yelling, shouting, screaming, and • Acupuncture • Personal comfort items
threatening is parenting by instilling fear into your child. • Ambulance services (except in emergencies or when • Intermediate care
Unfortunately, fear and intimidation don’t produce lasting the individual’s health would be in danger if other Medicare Advantage plans or supplements can fill in
behavioral changes. Sure, your child might behave when transportation was used) the gaps that Medicare does not cover in most instances.
you’re around but leave them with relatives or a sitter • Chiropractic services, except for some limitations Call today for your free, no hassle consultation. I can meet
and prepare yourself for a bad report. When you yell at • Dental care and dentures (with only a few exceptions) with you one on one or virtually. I am here to help find the
your child to get him to do what you want, he is learning • Cosmetic surgery best plan for your needs today!
that’s how he should treat his peers or friends when he • Custodial care (help with bathing, dressing, using the I speak Medicare: supplement, drug plan and Advantage
encounters someone who doesn’t do what he wants. You bathroom, and eating) at home or in a nursing home plan.
are the example he looks to for learning how to interact • Health care while traveling outside of the United States For your free Medicare plan review please call me.
with others. (except in limited cases) Kathy Olejniczak, agent, (561) 835-5413 or cell/text
Do you yell at your child when he asks you to read an • Eye care – routine exams, eye refractions, and most (561) 212-7640
unknown word from his homework? No, you teach him eyeglasses
how to pronounce the word. Try to maintain this teaching
mindset when it comes to his behavior. Keep teaching him
over and over how to behave appropriately.
Perhaps ask him questions instead of yelling commands.
“Are you being helpful? Is this good for the family? What
will happen if you don’t stop?” People often tune out
yelling, but a question has an implied response requirement.
Being asked a question requires reflection and thought, and
this helps your child’s mind to shift and transition. Parenting
requires us to modify our behavior just like modifying our
child’s behavior so keep learning and practicing.
Maybe you’ve thought, “Why does he act like
that? Maybe there is something wrong with him. Is he
ADHD or maybe autistic?” Our testing process provides
information to help answer your questions. Call to discuss 747-PALM
your child as we test for autism, dyslexia, dysgraphia,
ADHD, depression, learning disabilities, and anxiety. Visit 747-7256
JimForgan.com or call (561) 625-4125.