Listen up! Our Nashville audiologists encourage you not to take healthy ears for granted. Hearing loss typically happens gradually, which is why many people do not realize it is happening until they experience significant symptoms or family members notice. Unlike primary care checkups, eye appointments, and dentist visits, annual hearing tests are not a priority for most people.

Fortunately, Nashville ENT Audiology, in affiliation with St. Thomas Medical Group, is here to help you manage hearing loss, tinnitus, balance disorders, and other hearing healthcare needs.

Common Signs It Is Time For A Hearing Test

• You’re over the age of 60. For many people, hearing loss is part of the natural aging process. If you’re over 60, it is time to make hearing one of your priorities. Simply taking a hearing test every 2 years is an effective first step.
• You have noticed recent difficulty hearing. Are you turning up the television or radio volume louder than normal? Do you find it difficult to follow conversations? Do you mishear people or ask people to repeat themselves when there is background noise? If you experience one or more of these situations, you could benefit from a hearing test.
• You hear sound even when no external noise is present. Tinnitus can present itself as ringing, buzzing, chirping, or whooshing sounds in your ear. Many things can cause tinnitus, including hearing loss.

If any of these apply to you, you can schedule an appointment with our Nashville audiologists online or by calling +1 (615) 292-5191.

How Hearing Loss May Affect Your Life

Hearing loss can impact your life in three primary ways. First, people with untreated hearing loss have fewer educational and job opportunities than people with healthy hearing, which has a direct ability on one’s ability to communicate. Second, this impaired communication can lead to social withdrawal as well as reduced access to services. Third, individuals with hearing loss suffer emotional consequences such as a drop in self-esteem and confidence.

Our Nashville audiologists will help you find the right treatment plan. Our solutions include hearing aids, assistive devices, osseointegrated devices, cochlear implants, and rehabilitative education.

Understanding the Two Types of Hearing Loss

If you suffer hearing loss, your doctor will help you determine what kind of hearing loss you are experiencing. “Conductive” hearing loss is characterized by obstructions or malfunctions in the outer or middle ear. Common issues might include a damaged eardrum, impacted ear wax, or an infection in the outer or middle ear.

On the other hand, “sensorineural” hearing loss is attributed to damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. This damage can be caused by the natural aging process, exposure to loud noises (machinery, concerts, etc.), and diseases like meningitis.

Some individuals might experience a mix of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.

Hearing Loss Solutions

Fortunately, advances in medicine and technology have lead to many treatment and management solutions for hearing loss. Our Nashville audiologists will work with you to understand the treatment options available such as hearing aids, surgically implanted hearing devices, rehabilitative education, and much more!

To schedule a hearing test and protect your hearing, please schedule an appointment with our Nashville audiologists online or by calling +1 (615) 292-5191.

Are terms like “co-pay” and “deductible” throwing you off? Do you dread your 26th birthday because it means you’ll have to shop for your own health insurance?

If you’re like a lot of 20-somethings, you’re not alone. In a recent study of adults between the ages of 19 and 30, researchers found that 48% can’t define “deductible,” and 78% don’t know how to describe “coinsurance.”

In order to help patients improve their understanding of health insurance, our office at St. Thomas Medical Group has put together this convenient glossary of health insurance terms. Have a billing question? Don’t hesitate to ask us next time you’re visiting with us in the office!

Your Quick & Easy Health Insurance Glossary

Let’s take a few minutes to look at some of the most common health insurance terms and what they mean.

• ACA. Short for the “Affordable Care Act,” the ACA – also referred to as “Obamacare” – began to come into effect in 2014 (after being signed into law in 2010). Under the ACA, health insurance policies are frequently purchased by consumers through the government-run Health Insurance Marketplace (if you do not have health insurance coverage through parents or an employer). If you choose to shop for an alternative provider outside the Marketplace, you will want to confirm that your plan is ACA-compliant before purchasing.
• Claim. A “claim” describes the process of asking your insurance provider to pay for a medical service. Sometimes the physician’s office will file a claim for you. (If you aren’t sure, it never hurts to ask.)
• Copay. Many medical services – like a visit to your primary care provider at St. Thomas Medical Group – may have a copay. This is a flat rate that you pay to access the service; your insurance provider covers the remainder.
• Coinsurance. Once you’ve reached your plan’s deductible (see below), you may pay “coinsurance” – a percentage of a healthcare expense. For example, if you have a 25% coinsurance rate, then you would pay $250 of a $1,000 bill, and your insurance plan would pay $750.
• Deductible. This is the amount of money you must pay out of pocket before your health insurance plan kicks in. Generally, plans with higher deductibles have cheaper monthly fees and plans with lower deductibles are more expensive.
• In-Network Provider. Health insurance plans often have “in-network providers,” which include physicians, hospitals, pharmacies and other healthcare professionals with whom the insurance company has already negotiated lower rates.
• Health Savings Account (HSA). This is a personal savings account that you can deposit pre-tax dollars into. The money can be used to pay for a wide range of eligible medical expenses when you need it.
• Out-of-Pocket Maximum. This is the most amount of money you can pay for health costs in a year. This figure includes deductibles, copayments and coinsurance. If you spend this amount of money, your insurer should cover the rest of your expenses.
• Premium. This is the amount you (or your employer) pays per month for your health insurance policy.

Find a Primary Care Physician in Nashville, TN

For more information, see a primary care doctor in Nashville at St. Thomas Medical Group. Call +1 (615) 297-2700 for more information or to schedule an appointment. Our physicians have offered quality care at the intersection of Green Hills, Sylvan Park and Belle Meade for over 40 years.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month!

We can use this month to make a difference by spreading awareness about colorectal cancer and encouraging people to take action.

Did you know that colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States? It is also the second leading cause of death from cancer. Only lung cancer claims a higher mortality rate.

For 2018, the American Cancer Society predicts that there will be approximately 97,220 new cases of colon cancer and 43,030 new cases of rectal cancer. To put this into perspective, approximately 1 in 20 people will be affected by colon cancer in their lifetime. The good news is that it is preventable with screening.

Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors, Screening, and Treatment

While colorectal cancer affects the lives of over 140,000 Americans each year, the reality is that it is preventable. This month, help us raise awareness. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable. The key preventive strategy is “screening, screening, screening.” One of the most acceptable choices is to get a colonoscopy every 10 years beginning at age 50 if you have average risk. Other screening choices include fecal DNA testing and stool hemoccult testing (FIT). Why get screened? These tests are designed to catch colorectal cancer early when it is easiest to fight the disease. Detection of polyps and subsequent polyp removal by colonoscopy is the best strategy to prevent colon cancer before it forms since all colon cancers start as polyps.
2. There are some colorectal cancer risk factors you can change. The links between dietary habits, weight, and exercise and colorectal cancer risk are considered some of the strongest for any type of cancer. Lifestyle-related risk factors include being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, diets high in red meats, smoking, and heavy alcohol use.
3. Some colorectal cancer risk factors you cannot change. While you can live a healthier lifestyle to decrease your risk, there are still some risk factors that are out of your hands. For example, the risk of colorectal cancer increases with age. While younger adults can get it, it’s much more common after 50. The average age of diagnosis is 68 for men and 72 for women. Family history also plays a role, as nearly 1 in 3 people diagnosed with colorectal cancer have family members who have had it. A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colorectal polyps also mean that you are at an increased risk of developing the cancer. Finally, inherited syndromes such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis increase your risk as well.

To set up or discuss colonoscopy, call +1 (615) 383-0165 for Dr. Mertz and Dr. Pruitt at St. Thomas West, +1 (615) 329-2141 for Dr. Bailey and Dr. White at St. Thomas Midtown, or +1 (615) 250-4108 for Dr. Eskind and Dr. Granda at St. Thomas West.

To set up fecal DNA testing or hemoccult tests for detection of cancer, please discuss this with your primary doctor. You can also schedule an appointment online.

First words. First steps. First cold.

Of all the exciting milestones for your baby, the first cold is probably furthest from your mind. Babies start building their immune systems the moment they are born, but it takes time to develop full protection. During this vulnerable time, they can have up to 10 colds each year, more if they attend daycare or other crowded, public environments. Compare this to an average of four annual colds for most adults!

During winter weather, more time is spent indoors where viruses can live on surfaces for hours. Children experience the world by touching things and inevitably those hands make it into their mouths.

With that in mind, the best thing to do when you think your baby is coming down with a cold is to follow the guidance of your baby’s pediatrician. Please contact St. Thomas Medical Group pediatricians at +1 (615) 301-7040.

Symptoms of Colds in Babies

Apart from the common cold symptoms like fever, runny nose, cough, and congestion, younger children and babies may display a variety of other signs. Here are 7 common signs your child may be coming down with an upper respiratory infection.

1. Refusal to nurse or take a bottle. Infants and older children tend to have decreased appetite when they are coming down with a cold. If your child suddenly has less interest in breastfeeding or formula, he or she should be evaluated by a pediatrician to help determine if there is a cold developing.
2. Listlessness. Babies are naturally active and curious. When your child becomes less interested in the environment or people around them, the sudden change in energy level may be indicative of an infection like a cold. It’s always important to seek pediatric care if you have any concerns.
3. Irritability. Excessive fussiness, crying and tantrums may be a sign that your baby is not feeling well. Because babies can’t talk, crying is a baby’s primary way of communicating. Over time, parents learn to decipher the baby’s cries and what they mean, but if your baby is irritable and cries longer than usual, it might be a sign that your baby is ill or in pain.
4. Fewer wet diapers. Colds and illness can cause dehydration through fever, sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea. Less frequent need for diaper changes could indicate developing dehydration. Babies can quickly become dangerously dehydrated, so this should be communicated to your child’s pediatrician immediately.
5. Difficulty sleeping. We all know how hard it is to get good rest with a cold. A stuffy head, runny nose, and cough can keep you awake. It is no different for your baby. Changes in sleep routine can have many causes, but cold viruses top the list.
6. Pale or rosy cheeks. This type of change to your baby’s complexion may be a sign that they are becoming ill. Aside from pale or rosy cheeks, keep an eye on your baby’s skin or lips. If they turn blue or purple, then call the pediatrician immediately.
7. Swollen or sunken soft spot. Your baby’s soft spot, or fontanelle, can change depending on illness and hydration status. Both ends of the spectrum, excessive pressure or decreased fullness, can represent a medical emergency and should be evaluated by a pediatrician immediately. In Nashville, the doctors at St. Thomas Medical Group are the best pediatricians to help care for your baby.

Ambiguous Symptoms

Sometimes what may seem like a clear sign of a cold can be allergies, indigestion or another benign condition.

1. Nasal irritation can come from an infection like a cold, but can also be triggered by allergies or dry winter air.
2. Vomiting and diarrhea. While many infants have some gastrointestinal upset related to colds, these symptoms are more commonly associated with other conditions.
3. Red eyes can accompany other cold symptoms but may also be from allergies or bacterial conjunctivitis (aka pink eye) and would be treated differently in this case.

Nothing to Sneeze At

It is important to keep in mind that most illnesses, including colds, can be higher risk for children compared to adults. In addition, many of the medications used to manage cold symptoms in adults are not safe for young children.

If you have any question about your baby’s health, please do not hesitate to contact the excellent pediatricians at St. Thomas Medical Group. You can schedule an appointment with our Nashville pediatricians by calling +1 (615) 301-7040.

As winter weather continues, so do the aches, coughs, and chills. You’ve probably read the headlines about this year’s specific strain of influenza being the most widespread since the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention began its current surveillance system 13 years ago. In fact, the flu hospitalization rate is at the highest number ever recorded at this point in the season.

Fortunately, despite the scary headlines, there are steps you can actively take to stay healthy this flu season. Even if you get sick with flu symptoms, our Nashville doctors are here to make sure you get the medical care you need to return to life as normal.

Flu Prevention Techniques You Can Practice Today

By following these tips, you can minimize your risk of getting the flu. Of course, there is no fool-proof way to completely slow or stop the spread of the flu, but we encourage you to take the following actions to protect yourself and others.

1. Get vaccinated! You might be wondering, “Is it too late to get a flu shot this season?” While getting a vaccine is better earlier in the season, there are still a few weeks to go and vaccination could provide some benefit. Even if this year’s flu vaccine isn’t the best match, it can help reduce the severity of the flu and minimize downtime if you do get sick. 
2. Practice healthy hygiene and good cleaning habits. One of the best ways to avoid the flu is to regularly wash your hands, especially before eating. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, rubbing in circles, cleaning between your fingers, and scrubbing under your nails. Also take the time to regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated. Focus on areas that are touched frequently such as countertops, door knobs, faucets, and even your cell phone!
3. Avoid close contact with sick people. Families are especially at risk for spreading the flu between family members. While it is important to care for each other, it is equally important to limit contact as much as possible. It can be difficult to avoid someone with the flu if you’re the one taking care of them, but if possible, try to give them their own room for sleeping and recovery. 
4. Exercise and sleep. Getting the recommended amount of sleep is one of the best things you can do for your immune system. When your body is well rested, it can help aid you in flu prevention. Regular exercise can also help boost your body’s defenses.
5. See your primary care physician. With the exception of emergency warning signs or complications, most patients do not need to go to the Emergency Room to care for the flu. If you get sick with flu-like symptoms but have a non-emergency illness, see your primary care doctor instead. Going to the ER can expose you to others who have it, increasing the likelihood of infection.
   

When to Seek Medical Attention

The good news is that the majority of symptoms associated with the flu typically last about a week and will subside with home treatment. However, the flu can lead to serious complications that require medical attention. If you experience difficulty breathing, chest or stomach pain, dizziness or lightheadedness, or severe vomiting, you should call your doctor. These red flags are universal for both adults and children.

At St. Thomas Medical Group, we know how important flu prevention is for your quality of life. If you get flu-like symptoms, we’re also here to help you get healthy as quickly as possible. Whether you’re a new or returning patient, you can make an appointment online today or call us at +1 (615) 297-2700.