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What is sedation dentistry and am I a good candidate?
Sedation Dentistry is a safe, comfortable, and relaxing method of accomplishing dental treatment. Conscious sedation is achieved through small pills, eliminating the need for an IV. It is simple and painless; the patient is conscious throughout the appointment; however, little, if any, of the visit will be remembered. Patients who are fearful, have a strong gag reflex, require complex dental treatment, or have difficulty getting numb are excellent candidates for Sedation Dentistry!
Dr. April Calton, About Smiles Dental
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Why am I gaining weight in midlife, even though my eating habits haven't changed?
There are multiple factors at work that can contribute to this. As we age, muscle mass tends to decrease (especially if exercise habits diminish), which slows metabolism. For this reason, our calorie needs decrease about 5 percent every 10 years. Stress hormones, and in women the hormonal changes of menopause, can work against you by increasing appetite. Medications can also impact your weight. The good news is that there are certainly things you can do to maintain or even lose weight. A medical weight loss plan can devise effective strategies and the appropriate calorie balance for you to achieve and maintain your healthy goals.
David Anderson, MD, Annapolis Medical Weight Loss
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What are the latest plastic surgery procedures that require little or no downtime?
A liquid facelift with fillers or botox can last from 6 months to a year while a short scar facelift provides great results with a less than one week recovery. Body contouring treatments are non-invasive, safe and effective solutions for skin tightening and cellulite reduction. The PicoSure laser restores smoothness to your skin while fading own spots. The Lumenis laser hair removal is virtually painless and provides great results with no downtime.
Lee Kleiman, MD, Severn River ENT Plastic and Laser Surgery
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Who develops sleep disorders?
Sleep disorders can occur in males, females, children and adults. There are 68 different sleep disorders. The most common are insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea. Restless legs are common in the elderly. Sleep disorders are associated with strokes, heart attacks and auto accidents.
Dr. Steve Resnick, Dr. Adil Degani, Dr. Ira Weinstein
Annapolis Pulmonary, Asthma and Sleep Specialists
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Are varicose veins a cosmetic or a medical issue?
Varicose veins are a symptom of Venous Insufficiency, also known as Venous Reflux or vein disease. If left untreated, people afflicted with this progressive medical condition can suffer from blood clots, ulcers, phlebitis or other complications. The complications of this long-standing disease can be removed by early treatment. Today, there are many effective, minimally invasive treatments that can be treated as outpatient procedures. Best of all, most varicose vein procedures are covered by your insurance.
Peter Liao, MD, PhD, Maryland Vein Professionals
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What are porcelain veneers?
Veneers are thin wafers of porcelain, about the thickness of a fingernail, that are bonded on top of your natural teeth. With recent advancements in material, they can be extremely thin, requiring little or no preparation of the tooth surface in ideal situations. With proper planning and design, veneers can be as durable as any restoration placed in the mouth and can be a conservative and beautiful option to upgrade your smile.
Dr. Chris Anderson, Scott Finlay DDS & Associates, PA
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What happens after a tooth is extracted?
After the extraction of a permanent tooth, bone and gingival tissue (gums) start to fill the extraction site. However, the body also starts to “melt away” the bone in a vertical and horizontal dimension. If implant tooth replacement is desired, a site preservation bone graft is usually required to prepare the surgical site, especially if bone loss occurred prior to the extraction. This recreates ideal bony contours, and makes dental implant success more predictable. The bone graft is usually performed at the time of extraction with no additional discomfort.
Ziad Batrouni, DDS, Maryland Oral Surgery Associates
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What should I look for to detect skin cancer?
Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma are the most common types of skin cancer, and the common symptoms to look for include:
• a red, pink, own, black or multicolored lesion
• a sore or lesion that bleeds, crusts or enlarges
• a lesion that doesn’t heal
• a new or changing lesion
• a mole that appears quickly, grows or changes in color
• a lesion that occurs in a person with fair skin, light eyes, blond or red hair and extensive sun exposure
Lisa Renfro, MD, Annapolis Dermatology Associates
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Should I get the flu shot during pregnancy? Is it safe?
Yes, you should get the flu shot in pregnancy as soon as it is available (usually October). If you get the flu while pregnant, you are at higher risk of hospitalization and even death than non-pregnant women. As well, a serious illness like the flu in a pregnant woman increases the chance for harm to the fetus from complications caused by the illness, like premature labor and delivery. Yes, the flu vaccine is safe at any time during your pregnancy. Millions of pregnant women have safely received the flu vaccine. Keep in mind that there are two forms of flu vaccine: the injectable form (the flu shot) and the nasal spray. The nasal spray is not recommended in pregnancy.
Frederick Guckes, MD, Annapolis OB-GYN Associates
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I've been told I have a cataract, now what?
Cataracts are removed surgically and an intraocular lens placed to restore vision. Cataract surgery is elective. The decision about when a cataract is ready for surgery is when you believe your sight has failed to the point that you are having difficulty reading print, driving, or performing activities of daily living. An ethical surgeon will not force you into surgery. Patients should also be aware that there are new intraocular lenses available that not only provide single vision correction but also correct astigmatism and presbyopia. You should discuss these options when you talk with your ophthalmologist about cataract surgery.
Michael Dodd, MD, Maryland Eye Associates
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What can patients do to help prevent skin cancer and maintain good skin health?
It often takes the trained eye of a dermatologist to spot a melanoma or suspicious lesion on the skin. Therefore it is recommended that you have a regularly scheduled full-body screening at least once a year. If you are at high risk, you may need them more often. You should also examine your body regularly while standing in front of a full-length mirror. Use a handheld mirror for areas that are more difficult to see. If you notice any odd-looking mole or marking, contact your dermatologist as soon as possible.
Dr. Sanjiv K. Saini, MD Dermatology of Maryland
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There is a high risk of east cancer in my family, what preventive steps can I take?
If you have a family history of east or ovarian cancer (or other risk factors such as atypical cells on your biopsy), it is important to make an appointment with your doctor. As there are many elements to risk reduction, a referral to a east specialist would be beneficial to fully understand your risks and east imaging plus provide individual consultation. The goal is to develop a tailored plan to improve detection and strategies that can help you more actively reduce your risk. A long term plan with followup is often recommended when risk is increased in order to monitor east health changes through your lifetime and keep you updated with future advances in east research.
Dr. Barbara Urban, Medical Breast Specialist,
Aiello Breast Center, UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center
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What is a sleep study and why should I consider one?
A sleep study is a painless, non-invasive test that records measures of your body’s functions during sleep for the purpose of diagnosing and treating a sleep disorder. It is a diagnostic tool that will give the physician a course of treatment that will assist you in your sleep that will leave you feeling refreshed and give you the opportunity to live a healthier life. Home studies are also available.
Dr. Steve Resnick, Dr. Adil Degani, Dr. Ira Weinstein
Annapolis Pulmonary, Asthma and Sleep Specialists
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What are the newest innovations in treating sinusitis?
I utilize the safest and most cutting edge surgical techniques available including state of the art image guidance navigation and drug eluting stents. As the only fellowship trained Rhinologist in the area, I have experience in all of the latest nasal and sinus surgery techniques. Balloon Sinuplasty is a safe and minimally invasive method of opening blocked sinuses. It is performed in an outpatient setting with minimal downtime. This means less pain and a quicker recovery, which saves patients time and money.
Praveen Duggal, MD,
Severn River ENT Plastic and Laser Surgery
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My mammogram shows I have dense easts and I also have a family history of east cancer. My doctor ordered a east MRI in addition to my annual screening mammogram. If MRI is better than mammography, can I just get an MRI instead of a mammogram?
Annual screening east MRI should be used in addition to mammography, not as a replacement for mammography in women with dense easts who have an increased risk of east cancer. Breast MRI is a very sensitive test and finds many cancers that may be missed on a mammogram. This is especially true for women with dense easts. On the other hand, there are some cancers that mammography might detect that are hard to see on MRI because mammography is better at detecting small calcium deposits known as microcalcifications that are often an indicator of early cancer.
Mark D. Baganz, MD, Chesapeake Medical Imaging
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Why remove wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt within the mouth. When they align properly and gum tissue is healthy, wisdom teeth do not have to be removed. Unfortunately, this does not generally happen. Poorly positioned or impacted wisdom teeth can cause many problems including pain, infection and decay on the back of the second molars and crowding of the other healthy teeth. Early removal of problematic wisdom teeth is recommended to avoid such future problems and to decrease the surgical risk involved with the procedure. Our Oral Surgery Specialist team works closely with your dentist to insure a successful outcome and beautiful smile.
Dr. Borek Hlousek, DMD, MD, Oral Surgery Specialists
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What is Hirsutism?
Hirsutism, defined as excessive male-pattern hair growth, affects between 5 and 10 percent of women of reproductive age. It may be the initial, and possibly only, sign of an underlying male hormone disorder. In some cases, hirsutism is mild and requires only reassurance and local therapy, while in others it causes significant psychological distress and requires more extensive therapy. It should be evaluated by a doctor specializing in hormonal issues such as an endocrinologist.
Joan Cantero Lakhanpal, MD
Annapolis Endocrinology Associates
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Why should I consider a multifocal lens for cataract surgery?
Today’s technology offers cataract patients the opportunity to choose a multifocal lens over the basic single-focus lens. These advanced lenses allow patients to see variable distances versus the single-focus lens that provides either distance or near vision, which requires glasses after surgery. Having that choice is a life-long gift worth considering. Additionally, using laser technology and ORA Precision Vision further enhances cataract patients’ visual outcomes. Now, with more people living longer active lives, having the choice to see at all distances, often without glasses, is liberating.
Dr. Maria Scott, Medical Director, Cataract & Refractive Surgery, Chesapeake Eye Care & Laser Center
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What is the latest and greatest available in dentistry today?
For patients with severe compromised dentition, the latest process is called “teeth in a day” via technologies used by TeethXpress and the like. Four to six implants are placed into the jaw with abutment posts. Your denture is then attached to the abutments. The procedure typically can be completed in one day and can be done under local anesthesia. Millions of people around the world are missing enough teeth to require the use of dentures. Dentures supported by implants have been successful and the number of patients is growing rapidly due to their effectiveness, durability and the high success rate of dental implants.
Paul Kinsey, DDS, Severn River Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
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I really try to be good with sunscreen, but I want to do something to improve my blotchy facial skin pigment and wrinkles. How can you help?
The good news is that there are a number of non-surgical options to rejuvenate aged, sun-damaged skin. Our Sciton BBL photofacial and resurfacing laser provides us the most advanced technology to remove blotchy pigment and correct sagging or wrinkled skin in a customized fashion. We can individualize each treatment to fit your exact needs and desired results, as well as your tolerance for downtime. Sun induced pigmentation can be predictably removed with little or no downtime and significant wrinkle reduction can be achieved with only one treatment.
Bryan Am o, MD, Annapolis Facial Plastic Surgery
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Who is a candidate for sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who have anxiety or fear about going to the dentist. Dental sedation can also be helpful for patients with issues such as a sensitive gag reflex, fear of needles or difficulty getting numb. Just about any procedure can be performed with sedation – even a dental cleaning. There are several sedation options including inhalation sedation (laughing gas), oral medications and IV sedation. Sedation dentistry makes it possible to have multiple procedures done in one visit – meaning fewer visits to the dentist!
Kian Djawdan, DMD,
Djawdan Center for Implant & Restorative Dentistry
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Why should I go to a Pain Specialist?
Pain Medicine Specialists are physicians that have had added qualifications in the treatment of pain after they have completed their residency. A patient should seek the treatment by a Pain Specialist whenever they have pain lasting more than 3 months. Our Pain Specialists will develop comprehensive treatment plans that will alleviate your pain and allow you to resume your activities. The Pain Specialists at The Kahan Center for Pain Management use a variety of skills such as interventional injections, physical therapy and medical management to help alleviate your pain without compromising your health.
Dr. Brian Kahan, The Kahan Center for Pain Management
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What can patients do to address aging sun damage?
The first step would be setting up a consultation with our skincare expert and licensed esthetician, Jackie Suver. Jackie can develop a customized plan to address each person’s individual needs. There are a variety of treatments as well as medical grade topical products that can be utilized to address this common issue. Chemical peels, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and committing to a daily skincare regime with professional products are just a few ways to treat sun damage.
Dr. Sanjiv K. Saini, MD Dermatology of Maryland
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My eyelids are droopy and I appear to have constant bags that make me look tired, what can be done to correct this problem?
An eyelid lift (Blepharoplasty) is the best option to rejuvenate the eyelids. An upper eyelid blepharoplasty trims the excess skin and puffiness of the upper folds, ightening the eyes and giving you a lifetime of rejuvenation. Lower blepharoplasty reduces puffy “bags”, wrinkles, and extra skin from the lower lids giving them a youthful appearance. Lasers and fillers, such as Restylane® can correct lines and circles under the eyes, perfecting the cosmetic results. As an experienced Oculofacial plastic surgeon, I am most qualified to offer you the best combination of surgical and non-surgical approaches to address your particular concerns.
Dr. Elba M. Pacheco, Center for Eye & Laser Surgery
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I have had sinus problems for years. When is it appropriate to consider sinus surgery and what about the new “Balloon Sinuplasty?”
A medical evaluation is always the first step. This may include an allergy evaluation, long term antibiotics, trials of nasal medications and CAT scan imaging. This process is to better understand the underlying anatomy and look for blockages. If a patient fails medical therapy, we then consider surgical options. The new “Balloon Sinuplasty” technique uses a balloon to dilate the sinus openings. It has definite benefits over standard surgery for some cases. It can dilate the openings to certain sinuses without having to cut any bone or tissue. However, it has limitations and often needs to be combined with standard sinus surgery.
Gregg Heacock, MD, Annapolis ENT Associates
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What can dental implants do for me?
Dental implants have become a proven and durable solution for missing teeth. Implants can serve as support for a single tooth, help stabilize many teeth in the form of removable dentures, or even provide fixed solutions for all teeth that are not removable by the patient. With today’s technology, this can often be completed in the same day that the teeth are removed, which helps to insure the individual’s quality of life.
Scott Finlay, DDS, Scott Finlay DDS & Associates, PA
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Why should I go to The Kahan Center for Pain Management?
At The Kahan Center for Pain Management, the ultimate goal is to improve the patient’s quality of life. By using state of the art medical treatments, the members of The Kahan Center for Pain Management decrease symptoms while promoting optimal healing. The Kahan Center for Pain Management’s philosophy is to address the whole person and not just a symptom. By addressing how the problem is affecting the whole person the physicians at The Kahan Center for Pain Management can provide complete relief of your pain and improve your quality of life.
Dr. Brian Kahan, The Kahan Center for Pain Management
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If I have Macular Degeneration, how can I preserve my vision?
Major advancements are now available to slow vision loss for patients at different stages of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). There are several specifically formulated vitamins for the intermediate stages. Injections of Avastin®, Lucentis®, and Eylea® are available to preserve vision in Wet AMD. If you are still in the Dry AMD stage, you may be a candidate for the newly FDA approved ForeseeHome™ device that monitors changes in your vision and allows your doctor to detect early signs of Wet AMD. It’s important to schedule regular appointments with your doctor.
Dr. Tamara K. Fackler, Medical Retina,
Chesapeake Eye Care & Laser Center
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How can I improve own sun spots on my skin?
The most effective treatment for own skin discolorations is the state-of-the-art Sciton BBL® laser system. After 3 treatments, you will see amazing improvements to sun damaged skin. There is no downtime and treatments are performed with topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort. The most common treatment areas are the face, neck, chest and hands.
Henry Sandel, MD, FACS,
The Sandel Center for Facial Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa
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How Do Cataracts Form?
A cataract occurs when there is a buildup of proteins in the lens, creating protein clumps. These clumps, or deposits, prevent light from passing clearly through the lens, thus disrupting normal vision. A patient with a cataract cannot see images clearly. Instead, images appear cloudy or blurry, especially at night. Cataracts can begin to affect the patient’s ability to perform simple, everyday tasks like reading and driving. Cataract surgery is the recommended treatment in these cases and has a 98% success rate.
Dr. Samuel Boles, Anne Arundel Eye Center
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Why is flossing so important?
Believe it or not, flossing children younger than age 10 is just as important as ushing, if not more important. Seventy-five percent of cavities in children younger than 10 occur between the baby molars, which do not “fall out” until 10 or 12 years of age. The dexterity for flossing is not achieved until age 10. Therefore, we recommend that parents help children floss until then. Eighty percent of cavities on permanent teeth occur on the biting surface, but this can be prevented with sealants.
Dr. Collins, Bross & Associates
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Why is a routine annual eye exam important for diabetics?
Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness among the working-age population in this country. It can damage the blood vessels that nourish the back of the eye, leading to decreased vision. The most common cause of diabetes-related vision loss is from leakage of blood vessels near the macula. This leakage can be identified and treated well in advance of any perceived change in vision. An eye exam can identify sources of leakage early in the disease process. While not all leakage requires treatment, there is an improved chance of preserving vision if caught early. Good follow-up with annual exams is important in monitoring diabetes.
Dr. Jeremy Snow, MD
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What is Coronary Artery Disease (“atherosclerosis” or “hardening of the arteries”)?
Coronary heart disease is when there is narrowing of the major arteries that feed the heart. Like any muscle, the heart needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients in order to work efficiently. When the major arteries become narrowed or blocked, the heart has to work extra hard because not enough blood is supplied to the heart. Coronary artery disease can develop slowly and take decades before it produces symptoms, or it can come on suddenly. Left untreated, it can lead to angina or acute myocardial infarction (heart attack).
Valeriani R. Bead, MD, MedStar Health Cardiology Associates
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I have recently lost a significant amount of weight and am uncomfortable with the excess skin around my stomach. I am considering a tummy tuck, what kind of results can I expect?
The tummy tuck procedure is designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, while tightening and flattening the muscles of the abdominal wall. This excess skin & fat can be caused by pregnancy, aging or recent weight loss. Tummy tucks correct loose skin that diet and exercise cannot remove. Most incisions are kept just above the pubic area, and can be easily camouflaged. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and requires some recovery time of about two weeks for most patients, and it takes several weeks before being able to return to pre-surgery activities. If you are considering a tummy tuck, our board-certified plastic surgeons at Plastic Surgery Specialists can help determine if this procedure is right for you.
Dr. Paul Buhrer, MD, Surgeon, Plastic Surgery Specialists
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How can I rejuvenate my tired eyes?
There are several options, surgical and non-surgical, to rejuvenate tired eyes. The first step is identifying what your goals are and the cause for your tired eyes. Is your loose skin or weakened muscles causing the eyelids to droop and look tired? Or could it be the lines around your eyes that are giving you a tired look? After being extensively evaluated, an individualized approach will be discussed. It may be recommended to have surgery, along with non-surgical treatments, such as Botox and facial fillers, to further enhance your outcome.
Dr. Orin Zwick, Oculofacial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Chesapeake Eye Care & Laser Center
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My face has begun to sag and show my age. How can I tell if a mini face lift would work for me or if I need the “real thing?”
A face lift is a procedure designed to improve the most visible signs of aging by removing excess skin, tightening underlying muscles and re-draping the skin to create a more youthful appearance. If you are a candidate for a full face lift then the mini lift may only provide you with a result that does not last as long as you would expect. A real face lift should last you a lifetime. You will continue to age but you should look ten to fifteen years younger than you would had you not had the face lift. The result is a younger and more rested-looking appearance.
David H. Lowe, Plastic Surgery Specialists
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Do I have to have a full facelift in order to remove the excess skin in my neck?
No, in fact, facelift techniques have evolved greatly over the past 20 years. The jowls and neck skin are the common areas that are most concerning to patients. By focusing on these areas, we can provide exceptional, natural results with less downtime than traditional full facelifts.
Henry Sandel, MD, FACS,
The Sandel Center for Facial Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa
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Orthodontists add to the self-confidence of teens when their aces are removed...but what about the critical time while in treatment?
94% of teens think their appearance influences popularity, 92% use social media and are posting 17 photos per month, with 47% self-critiquing their smile before posting. The stage is set for daily judgment and criticism.Place these teens in aces and 84% report feeling like they don’t fit in, 33% feel awkward, 28% don’t like how they look, 18% experience lower self-esteem, and 17% report being teased. Place teens in Invisalign and 47% report a boost in self-esteem during treatment, not after. Why wait…Un ace your teens’ smile and em ace Invisalign.*Reference: Invisalign Teen Confidence Survey-NewsWorthy Analysis. July 2014
Dr. Mary Trahar, DDS, Trahar Orthodontics
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I have degenerative disc disease and have been reluctant to have a pain management procedure. I have heard the results are temporary. How long can I expect the pain relief to last after the procedure?
Results differ from patient to patient. This often depends on the nature and severity of the underlying medical condition. Results can also vary based on the goal of therapy and the type of procedure. Common procedures performed in my practice are injections, blocks, rhizotomies, discography, and spinal cord stimulation. Many patients get significant pain relief that lasts for months; others are pain free for years. I often meet patients that come up to me and thank me for procedures that relieved their pain years ago.
Damean Freas, DO, KURE Pain Management
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To what do you attribute the rise in food allergies?
There is no simple answer. It may be due to how we raise or farm food, or a result of how we process food substances―or a combination. While processing and fa ication methods have been altered over the years, we’re not quite sure how these processes have specifically influenced the allergenicity of foods. Interestingly and simply, there is less peanut sensitivity in the South where most peanuts are boiled before they are consumed. In contrast, up North, we eat mostly roasted peanuts and experience increased allergic reactions.
There has been a dramatic rise in the prevalence of food allergies perhaps due in large part to changes in and our responses to the environment. Many attribute this rise to the “hygiene hypothesis” that we as a society have become increasingly “dirt-phobic”. As a result, we fail to build up resistance to common irritants and bacteria. Studies reveal a higher prevalence of asthma and allergic disease rate in more controlled, “clean” environments.
Lawrence S. Schieken, MD
Chesapeake Asthma and Allergy Center
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I used to play golf and my wife rode horses. Unfortunately, we both have very painful lower back issues that keep us from doing the sports we love. Is surgery the only solution to relieving our pain?
No. I only recommend surgery as a last recourse, not a first choice. Other possibilities for an active couple such as your selves include physical medicine interventions and injections. I’m always looking for options that help me avoid the operating room. What guides my colleagues and me in recommending a treatment plan? We always ask ourselves what we would do if our patient were a member of our family. My goal is, and always has been, to get my patients back to function, and to the life they once enjoyed.
Brian J. Sullivan, MD, MBA, FACS,
Neurosurgeon, MD Brain, Spine + Pain
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What advice would you give to patients living with varicose veins?
Although varicose veins are frequently a cosmetic issue, the underlying condition is often a medical concern. Many patients don’t realize that symptoms such as aching, leg cramping and restless legs are often related to venous disease. In office treatment requires no downtime and patients can return to normal activity immediately. No more vein stripping. At O’Donnell Vein, we are committed to effective symptomatic relief and superior cosmetic results.
Kelly O'Donnell, MD
Medical Director, O'Donnell Vein
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I am in menopause and I started bleeding again. What should I do?
You should see your gynecologist. Likely they will start the evaluation with a pelvic ultrasound to evaluate the uterus, ovaries and uterine lining. If the lining is thickened they will recommend a sampling of the lining. This can usually be done in the office.
Karen Hardart, MD, Annapolis OB-GYN Associates
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Who is at risk for skin cancer and what can I do to prevent it?
Everyone is at risk for skin cancer. In fact, one in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetime. Exposure to ultraviolet light, both from the sun and indoor tanning devices, is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer. In order to minimize your risk, avoid tanning beds, seek shade where possible, and wear sunscreen regularly. For anything on your skin that is changing, itching, growing or bleeding, see a dermatologist for evaluation, as early detection is critical in successful treatment of skin cancer.
Dr. Donald Stranahan, Easton Dermatology Associates
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What do you tell people who are afraid of the dentist?
My approach to a patient with dental-phobia is to find out what their fear stems from – because every patient is different. Some have had a bad experience with a dentist, and some have a fear of loud noises. I try to put them at ease by explaining everything that I’m doing and also reassuring them that we will do whatever we can to make their visit painless. We offer items such as noise-cancelling headphones, a blanket – basically whatever it takes to make them feel extremely comfortable.
Dr. Ashley Francis, Eastern Shore Dental Care
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Recently, I have needed multiple CAT scans. Should I be concerned about the radiation?
We are all exposed to low levels of radiation from environmental sources such as; sun rays, earth/soil, and air. Questions to ask your doctor are:
“Is this test necessary to help manage my care?” and “Are there any alternatives?” If the scan is still necessary, ask if they have a low dose CAT scan, or if limited exposure is possible. The potential of a single or even several exams causing you harm is very small, but general concern about radiation exposure is always a good thing.
Dr. Christopher Levey, MD, Delmarva Radiology
