Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDSeattle, WAPermit No. 1564

SWEDISH HEALTH SERVICES747 BroadwaySeattle, WA 98122

IN THIS ISSUECommunity Events Skip the Rest StopGot Polyps?Community EducationTake the Spin out of LifeWeight Loss: It’s More than a Fashion StatementSpecial Services for Kids with Special Needs

www.swedish.org

Many women know that mid-wives, like obstetricians and family practice physicians,

have special training and expertise in pregnancy and delivery. Not everyone, however, knows that midwives are able to provide a much broader scope of care. A certified nurse midwife (CNM) is a licensed, board-certified specialist in women’s health. CNMs focus exclusively on women’s health needs in

all stages of life — from adolescence to menopause and beyond. All midwives at Swedish are nurse practitioners who can prescribe and monitor medications. They offer care at three locations: Swedish Ballard, Swedish First Hill and Swedish Issaquah. Services include: • Health promotion and disease

prevention • Health education and counseling • Contraceptive management

Choosing a Midwife for Your Medical HomeIs it Time to See a Heart Specialist?

About half of all Americans have at least one of the three main risk factors for heart disease: high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking. How is your heart health? I have high blood pressure I have high cholesterol I smoke I have diabetes I am overweight or obese I don’t eat well I don’t exercise very often or at all I drink alcohol Members of my family have

heart disease If you’ve checked even one of those boxes, it’s time to talk with your doctor about protecting your heart by making some lifestyle changes. Just a few changes, such as eating a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking or losing weight, can make a difference. If you are at high risk or have symptoms of heart disease, your doctor may suggest that you make an appointment with a cardiologist. Some symptoms that will trigger a referral to a heart specialist include: • Racing or irregular heart rates • Chest tightness or shortness

of breath when you work hard or exercise

• Unusual fatigue • Problems breathing when you

lay down • Significant leg swelling A Swedish cardiologist can evaluate your risk, show you how to reduce that risk and help you take the first step to a healthy future. Swedish has more than 31 board-certified cardiologists in 12 locations throughout the Greater Puget Sound area. Finding a cardiologist close to home or work will make life easier for you. Your heart works all the time. Start protecting it today.

It’s not uncommon for adults to develop osteoarthritis (OA). In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention estimates that 27 million Americans suffer from OA. It can occur in any joint, but it is most common in knees. OA is an inflammation of the joint that occurs when the cushion (cartilage) between the bones begins to wear away. The cartilage loss causes pain, swelling, stiffness, loss of function and possibly bone spurs. OA of the knee can develop due to: • Age • Weight • Repetitive stress injury • Other illnesses Treatment for OA of the knee usually includes weight loss, exercise and medicine to relieve pain or reduce inflammation. Other treatments include injections or a knee brace. When these treatments don’t work, partial or total knee replacement surgery may be necessary.

New Technology at Swedish Surgeons at the Swedish Orthopedic Institute have used Mako™ robotic-arm assisted technology for partial knee replacements for the past six years.

In November 2016, the manufacturer selected Swedish as one of four sites on the West Coast to also offer Mako for total knee replacements. “We are excited that we can offer all of our knee replacement patients this innovative technology,” says Dr. James Crutcher, an orthopedic surgeon with Orthopedic Physician Associates, and medical director of the Swedish Ortho-pedic Institute. “Up until now we could only use robotic-assisted technology for partial knee replacements.” Mako is robotically-assisted surgery that offers a high level of accuracy for joint resurfacing and replacement.

Oh, My Aching KneeNew Technology for Total Knee Replacement

Find a Swedish cardiologist at www.swedish.org/heartdoctors.

A R E S O U R C E F O R Y O U R G O O D H E A L T H S P R I N G 2 0 1 7

• Gynecological care, including Pap smears and annual exams

• Pre-conception and prenatal care • Labor and delivery services, and

care of the infant and mother immediately after birth

• Menopause/post-menopausal care and symptom relief

• Referrals to other specialists as needed

“We are pleased that our training allows us to be educators and caregiv-ers, and to care for a woman’s needs throughout her life cycle,” says Laura Carmichael, ARNP, CNM, MBA. “We build relationships with our patients and help them transition from adolescence to young adult, and on to motherhood and life as a fulfilled senior.” Every woman who chooses a nurse midwife as her provider establishes a medical home for her lifetime. To find a certified nurse midwife at Swedish, go to www.swedish.org/physicians and select “midwife” under “medical specialty”.

Before surgery, the surgeon develops a patient-specific treatment plan using 3-D modeling. This planning ensures the correct implant size, orientation and alignment. During the procedure, the surgeon is able to precisely balance the knee ligaments. This improves stability and range of motion, and promotes a more natural feeling knee. Medicare and most private health insurers usually cover Mako as a knee replacement procedure. Call 1-800-SWEDISH for more

information or to schedule an appointment. Go to www.swedish.org/classes and click on “Health and Wellness Classes” for more informa-tion about the free “Joint Replacement: The Right Choice for You?” seminar.

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer• Pain in abdomen • Narrow stools• Blood in stool • Excessive gas• Change in bowel habits • Anemia• Constipation • Fatigue

Contact your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Swedish is proud to participate in these community events.

We hope you’ll join us!

Bike Commuting 101Are you considering biking to work but

you’re not sure how to get started? Tues., Apr. 11, 12-1 p.m. Swedish – First Hill CampusThur., Apr. 20, 12-1 p.m. Swedish – Ballard Campus Tues., Apr. 25, 12-1 p.m.

Swedish – Cherry Hill Campus

Lung Force WalkSat., May 6

Woodland Park Zoo For more information go the Events at

www.lung.org

MS Roadshows Sat., May 6

Marcus Whitman Hotel & Conference Center, Walla Walla www.swedish.org/MSroadshow

Seattle Brain Cancer WalkSun., May 7

Seattle Center – Fisher Pavilionwww.BrainCancerWalk.org

Webinar: Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires: Fatigue, Exercise & Well-Being During and After Cancer Treatment

Thur., May 18, 6 p.m.For more information or to register,

please call 206-215-1743.

Dark Side of the Moon: Film Screening & Discussion

Thur., May 25, 5:30-7:30 p.m.Glaser Auditorium

The Art of Living Well – Cancer Survivorship Day

Sat., Jun. 3, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.Registration is required.

For more information or to register, please call 206-215-1743

CCFA (Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America) Take Steps Walk

Sun., Jun. 11 Magnuson Park, Seattle2 p.m. Registration and Check In

3 p.m. Run/Walk Startwww.cctakesteps.org/westernwashington

Infant & Pregnancy Loss Support SeriesThur. Jun. 15, 6:30-8 p.m. Sun., Oct. 15, 6:30-8 p.m.

Center for Perinatal Bonding & Support 1101 Madison, Suite 500, Seattle

NICU ReunionSat., Jun. 24, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Lytle Center

Asian Counseling and Referral Service Walk for RiceSat., Jun. 24

Seward Park, Seattlewww.acrs.org

Seattle Gay Pride ParadeSun., Jun. 25, 11 a.m.

Start - 4h UnionDowntown Seattle

Swedish SummeRun & Walk for Ovarian Cancer

Sun., Jul. 16Swedish – First Hill Campus

www.Summerun.org

| SPRING 2017

Got Polyps?A re you avoiding a colorectal

screening? Many people are embarrassed about this life-

saving cancer screening. Colorectal cancer may not produce symptoms right away. In fact, by the time symptoms appear, the cancer may already be advanced. That’s why it is important to schedule your colorectal screening according to the guidelines. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends men and women begin having colorectal screenings at age of 50 (age 45 for African Americans and Hispanics). Ask your doctor if you should get screened if you are younger than 50 and have a family history of colorectal cancer, or you are older than 75. Screening is for people with no symptoms who want to prevent cancer or identify it at an early and more easily treatable point. If you have symptoms, it does not mean you have colon cancer. However, it does mean testing needs to be more focused.

How often you need to be screened depends on the type of screening: • Fecal immunohistochemical test

(every year) • Colonoscopy (every 10 years if

you are not high risk) • Cologuard® stool test

(every three years) • Sigmoidoscopy (every 5 years —

rarely used anymore) All four tests have been shown to save lives. Rating effectiveness of the tests has been the topic of many studies. Colonoscopy by an experi-enced gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon has been shown to be the most effective screening tool because it detects cancer before symptoms develop and also prevents cancer from starting. During a colonoscopy, pre-cancerous polyps are removed before they turn into cancer. Up to 80 percent of colorectal cancers can be prevented with the appropriate use of colonos-copy screening. Patients whose doctors prescribe Cologuard collect a stool sample and

send it to a lab for testing. The results show whether there is abnormal DNA in the stool that may be associated with cancer, but it does not detect or remove polyps. A positive Cologuard test must be followed by a colonoscopy. When colorectal cancer is found and treated early, patients have more than a 90 percent chance of survival. That statistic alone should be enough to overcome your embarrassment. Remember — the best cancer is the one that never forms. Call 1-855-411-MYGI (1-855-411-6944) today to schedule your colorectal screening.

A re you planning your family vacations around rest stops? Are you hiding at home for fear

you’ll have an accident? You’re not alone. About 13 million Americans have trouble controlling their urine, and it affects women twice as often as men. In fact, some estimates say one in every four women have trouble controlling their urine. You don’t have to suffer in silence anymore. Help is available! Urinary incontinence is one of many pelvic health conditions managed through the Swedish Pelvic Health Pro-gram. Other issues include constipation, bowel leakage, pelvic organ prolapse, recurring urinary tract infections, and pain while sitting or during or after sex. The program’s nurse navigator is the single entry point for all of these issues, which many of us are uncomfortable talking about. This specially trained

nurse will listen to you, determine which type of specialist might be the best for you and even help set up your first appointment. There are many possible causes for urinary incontinence, so it’s important to let a specialist determine the reason

Skip the Rest Stop

and the best treatment plan for your particular situation. Don’t let urinary incontinence define your quality of life or your emotional well-being any longer. Call 206-386-2117 today to talk with the Swedish Pelvic Health nurse navigator.

CANCER EDUCATIONThe Swedish Cancer Institute offers a variety of ongoing classes for those diagnosed with cancer. Visit www.swedish.org/classes for a complete listing.

Featured Classes: Look Good, Feel BetterLearn how to look good and feel better about the skin and hair changes that cancer treatment can cause. You will get help with cosmetics, skin care and head covering options. Fee: Free Edmonds: Apr. 17, 6-8 p.m.; Mon. and May 15, 6-8 p.m.

Active Women, Healthy WomenA fitness class specially designed to provide support and guidance for women who are cancer survivors. To register, please call 206-732-8350. Fee: FreeIssaquah: Mondays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Edmonds: Mondays, 7-8 p.m.

Hawaiian HulaHula instructor, JoanMarie Ke’alaileiha’aha’a Hughes, is thrilled to share Aloha and the many health benefits (physical, social, mental and emotional) of Hula. Fee: FreeEdmonds: Thursdays, 12-1 p.m.

Coffee Break Webinar SeriesLive webinars for hematology patients. Overvew of lymphomas. To register for a free webinar and see more topics visit www.lls.org/washingtonalaska. Wed., June 7th, Noon-12:30 p.m.

CHILDBIRTH EDUCATIONSwedish offers a wide variety of classes and support to help you through pregnancy, childbirth and parenting. For more details, visit www.swedish.org/childbirthclasses or call 1-800-SWEDISH.

The DAD Project The DAD (Dads and Development) Project is designed to help fathers create a meaningful relationship with their infant. Dads and their babies will interact, play and learn more about parenting topics especially for fathers.

New Parent Support GroupThe New Parent Support Group is an informal group that meets weekly for six 90-minute sessions. Led by an experienced facilitator, new parents can share questions, concerns and experiences with other new parents in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Pregnancy ResourcesAre you thinking about having a baby or just finding out you’re pregnant? Let Swedish guide you in taking those next steps. Visit www.swedish.org/now-what/pregnancy.

DIABETES EDUCATIONThe Swedish Diabetes Education Center offers resources, classes and individual programs to help you successfully manage your diabetes. Physician referral is required. Visit www.swedish.org/diabetes or call 206-215-2440 (Ballard, First Hill and Issaquah) or 425-640-4395 (Edmonds).

www.swedish.org

PrediabetesThis class will explain risk factors and how to lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 60% through dietary and lifestyle changes. Participants are welcome to bring a support person for no additional charge. Fee: $40 (includes one support person)First Hill: Thu. Apr. 13, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Thu. May. 11, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

MULTIPLE SCLEROSISAt the Multiple Sclerosis Center at Swedish, we know that care for people with MS goes beyond medical treatment. That’s why we offer programs and classes for patients and families. All classes are FREE but you must RSVP by emailing katie.scaff@swedish.org or calling 206-991-2099.

Gentle Yoga & Wellness A 75-minute exercise class to help develop good breathing patterns integrated with balanced, healthy posture and a peaceful state of mind. Open to individuals with MS, Parkinson’s disease or stroke. Cherry Hill: Tuesdays, 1-2:15 p.m. and 2:30-3:45 p.m.

Modified Mat Pilates Exercise class based on Pilates principles for individuals with MS, Parkinson’s disease or stroke. Exercises are chosen and modified for your needs and done from seated, standing and supine positions. Cherry Hill: Mondays and Fridays, 10-11 a.m.

Pilates from the Chair Exercise class based on Pilates principles for individuals with MS, Parkinson’s disease or stroke. All exercises are modified so that they may be performed from a seated position. Cherry Hill: Mondays and Fridays, 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Group Music Therapy One-on-one music therapy with our board-certified music therapist to restore, maintain and improve your emotional, physical and physiological health and well-being. Open to individuals with MS, Parkinson’s disease or stroke.Cherry Hill: Wednesdays, 9-10:30 a.m., 30-minute sessions

Get Back Your Music Play music to recondition your brain. Join this music group and learn to overcome difficulty playing/singing due to neurologic conditions. Led by a volunteer who’s done just that despite MS.Cherry Hill: Thursdays, 10-11:30 a.m.

Adult Coloring Group Activity group to increase relaxation, mindfulness, creativity and fine motor and visual skills while reducing stress and anxiety. Open to individuals with MS or other neurological or chronic conditions. Cherry Hill: 1st Wednesday of each month, 1-2:30 p.m.

Book Club Monthly book club to connect with other individuals with MS, Parkinson’s disease or stroke. You can read the whole book, just a couple of chapters or listen on tape. Cherry Hill: 3rd Wednesday of each month, 1-2:30 p.m.

Mindful Listening Group Group meditation and mindful listening to help you find comfort and strength as you learn, cope and celebrate your challenges and successes. Open to anyone, including individuals living with MS. Cherry Hill: 4th Wednesday of each month, 1-2:30 p.m.

Project Art Show Group of artists of all abilities living with and influenced by multiple sclerosis focused on discussing and executing artwork for the annual MS Center Art Show. Communicate, plan and prepare. RSVP 206-991-2099 Cherry Hill: 2nd Wednesday of each month, 1-2:30 p.m.

Play Reading Group Have you ever wanted to act in a play? Are you a theater person who doesn’t act anymore? Get into character with this fun, light-hearted group. No acting confidence/experience required. RSVP 206-991-2099 Cherry Hill: 2nd Friday of each month, 1-2:30 p.m.

HEALTH AND WELL-BEINGPain and Beyond This class teaches coping techniques for people with pain-limiting conditions. Topics include an overview of the anatomy and physiology of pain, stress management, pacing, goal setting and logging, home therapies, nutrition and supplements, and hope, happiness and healing. For more information or to register, call 425-640-4140. Fee: $10/classEdmonds: Every Friday, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Fall Prevention/Steady on Your Feet This class includes recommendations for maintaining good balance and performing daily activities safely, home and community safety tips, and community resources for staying fit. Fee: FreeEdmonds: Tue., Apr. 18, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

NUTRITIONDaily Dose of FiberCome learn about cooking with different fiber-rich foods and find out easy ways to increase the amount of fiber in your diet. Fee: $15.First Hill: Wed., Apr. 12, 6-7:30 p.m.

Nutrition Group for Weight LossFor anyone with nutrition and/or weight related goals. Nutrition discussion led by a registered dietitian. If you have questions about this group, please contact Swedish Edmonds Nutrition Education at 425-640-4395.Edmonds: Every Friday, 12-1:30 p.m.

ORTHOPEDICSNeed hip- or knee-replacement surgery? Swedish offers a one-stop resource to guide you in taking the next steps and learning about your treatment options. Visit www.swedish.org/now-what/joint.

Joint Replacement: The Right Choice for You?If you have arthritic joint pain and are considering joint replacement, you’ll want to attend this important class. Dr. Charles Peterson will discuss hip- and knee-replacement surgery. There will be an open Q&A session to discuss questions

you may have. Take the first step towards joint pain relieve. Register today www.swedish.org/joing-seminarsBallard: Wed., Apr. 26, 6-7:30 p.m.

Caring for Your Back Surgical and Non-Surgical OptionsSpinal stenosis, scoliosis, slipped discs and other common spine problems can affect your ability to move well. Learn the hows and whys of back pain, as well as options for surgical and nonsurgical relief.Edmonds: Tues., May 23, 6-8 p.m.

PARENTINGGrowing Up: All About PubertyBuild a bridge with your 9- to 12-year-old child to demystify the challenges of puberty. The focus of this fun, interactive class is to open and enhance communication between parents and preteens and explain the physical and emotional changes ahead. Fee: $35 per family (includes two adults and one child; $5 fee for each additional child or adult in the same family).Issaquah: Sat. Apr. 8, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.First Hill: Sat., May 6, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

SAFETY AND INJURY PREVENTIONHeartsaver First Aid, CPR and AEDLearn how to save a life using proper first aid, automated external defibrillator (AED) and CPR techniques for adults, children and infants. Participant certifications are valid for two years. Fee: $70.Issaquah: Sun., Oct. 11, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Ballard: Sun., Dec. 13, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

CPR/BLS for Healthcare ProvidersThis course is designed to provide healthcare providers working in and out of a wide variety of hospital settings the ability to recognize several life-threatening emergencies, provide CPR, use an AED, and relieve choking in a safe, timely and effective manner. Participant certifications are valid for two years. Fee: $60.First Hill: Sat., May 20, 9a.m.-NoonIssaquah: Sat., Apr. 15, 9a.m.-Noon

SWEDISH SUPPORT GROUPSSwedish support groups include bereavement, cancer, cerebrovascular, diabetes, headache, movement disorders, multiple sclerosis, parenting, stroke and weight loss. For more information, visit www.swedish.org/supportgroups, or talk with your healthcare provider about a group for your specific needs.

WEIGHT-LOSS EDUCATIONSwedish Weight Loss Services offers a multidisciplinary program that has helped thousands of people achieve healthy, long-term weight loss. Get started today by registering for a free surgical or nonsurgical weight loss seminar. Visit www.swedishweightloss.com/seminars or call 206-215-2090

Community EducationSwedish Ballard: 5300 Tallman Ave. N.W., Seattle 98107Swedish Cherry Hill: 500 17th Ave., Seattle 98122Swedish Edmonds: 21601 76th Ave. W., Edmonds 98026Swedish First Hill: 747 Broadway, Seattle 98122

Registration is required for all classes. Visit www.swedish.org/classes or call 206-386-2502 (unless otherwise noted) to: register for the following classes, see a full list of classes at all Swedish campuses or search for classes by region. Class information is subject to change.

Swedish Issaquah: 751 N.E. Blakely Drive, Issaquah 98029Swedish Mill Creek: 13020 Meridian Ave. S., Everett 98208 Swedish Orthopedic Institute: 601 Broadway, Seattle 98122Swedish Redmond: 18100 N.E. Union Hill Road, Redmond 98052

Programs in Your Neighborhood

Pediatric Therapy Services at Swedish

Specializing in children who need therapy for: • Autism • Communication and language delays • Developmental delays • Feeding difficulties • Conditions related to premature birth • Oral-motor deficits • Orthopedic conditions • Sensory processing disorders • Gross motor delays • Sports injuries

| SPRING 2017

HealthWatch is meant to provide useful health-care

information and is not intended to replace the advice of

your doctor. If you have a question concerning your health,

contact your physician. If you do not have one and want a

free referral, call 1-800-SWEDISH (1-800-793-3474) or

visit our website at www.swedish.org.

Contact InformationSwedish Medical Center LocationsSwedish Ballard 206-782-2700

Swedish Cherry Hill (Seattle) 206-320-2000

Swedish Edmonds 425-640-4000

Swedish First Hill (Seattle) 206-386-6000

Swedish Issaquah 425-313-4000

Swedish Mill Creek 425-357-3900

Swedish Redmond 206-320-5190

For addresses, visit www.swedish.org/locations

Swedish Primary CareBallard Clinic 206-320-3335

Bainbridge Clinic 206-991-2121

Ballinger Clinic (Mountlake Terrace) 425-640-4830

Bellevue Clinic 425-462-1132

Central Seattle Clinic 206-320-4888

Cle Elum Clinic 509-674-6779

Downtown Seattle Clinic 206-320-3351

Edmonds Birth & Family Clinic 425-640-4950

Edmonds Clinic 425-640-4900

Factoria Clinic 425-641-4000

Family Medicine – Ballard 206-297-5100

Family Medicine – Cherry Hill 206-320-2484

Family Medicine – First Hill 206-386-6111

Greenlake Clinic 206-320-3400

Internal Medicine at Edmonds 425-640-4900

Issaquah Clinic 425-394-0700

Klahanie Clinic 425-394-0620

Magnolia Clinic 206-320-3364

Mill Creek Clinic 425-357-3700

Pediatrics Clinic - Edmonds 425-673-3456

Pediatrics Clinic - Meadow Creek (Issaquah) 425-394-1680

Pediatrics Clinic - West Seattle 206-320-5780

Pediatrics Clinic - Redmond 425-881-5437

Pine Lake Clinic 425-455-2845

Redmond Clinic 206-320-5190

Renton Clinic 425-391-5700

Richmond Beach 206-533-2900

Sand Point 206-320-8050

South Lake Union Clinic 206-320-5200

Snoqualmie Clinic 425-888-2016

Queen Anne Clinic 206-861-8500

West Seattle Clinic 206-320-3399

For addresses, visit www.swedish.org/primarycare

General InformationMarketing Communications 206-386-6797

HealthWatch Editor 206-386-6797

Class Registration and

Community Health Education 206-386-2502

Cancer Education Center

(Swedish Cancer Institute) 206-386-3200

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© 2017 Swedish Health Services

When you see someone who has lost 300 pounds, the typical response is,

“doesn’t she look great!” The truth is, when an obese person loses weight it is not a matter of looks. Rather, it is a life-saving achievement that probably wasn’t accomplished just through diet and exercise. The difference between being overweight and being obese is a matter of degrees. Both are hazardous to your health. Overweight: 20% over ideal weight or 25-29.9 BMI Obese: 30% over ideal weight or 30+ BMI Morbid Obese: 50-100% over ideal weight or 40+ BMI Obesity is one of the most common chronic medical conditions in the United States. It can cause metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, cancer and sleep disorders. Swedish offers both surgical and non-surgical solutions for individuals who are overweight or obese. Good candidates for bariatric surgery include individuals with a 40+ BMI

The room is spinning … and you’re not sick and you haven’t had even one sip of alcohol.

What’s going on? It might be benign paroxysmal positional vertigo or BPPV. BPPV is not a serious condition, but the symptoms can be frightening. In addition to vertigo (a feeling that the room is spinning), symptoms may include dizziness, lightheadedness, imbalance that may lead to falling, nausea and vomiting. It can occur without warning when you are lying down, sitting or standing.

What causes BPPV? Tiny crystals of calcium carbonate in the utricle of your inner ear help you balance. Small bits of their outer cov-ering occasionally come loose. Those bits — no bigger than a blood cell — usually remain in the utricle and even-tually dissolve. Sometimes, however, the bits find their way into one of the fluid-filled semicircular canals in your inner ear. Tiny hairs in the canals send

Weight Loss: It’s More than a Fashion Statement

Taking the Spin out of Life

and those with a lower BMI who are experiencing serious health conditions associated with their weight. “A minimally invasive bariatric procedure is the most effective way for seriously obese patients to lose weight,” says Samer Mattar, M.D., a board-certified bariatric surgeon at Swedish. “This isn’t about being vain. It’s about avoiding or reversing serious medical conditions. Our multidisci-plinary team supports our bariatric surgery patients before and forever after the procedure, so they can lose weight and keep it off for good.” The Swedish Weight Loss Program also offers an effective non-surgical program for people who don’t need bariatric surgery, but haven’t been able to lose weight on their own. Work-ing with each patient individually, the team customizes a program to fit the patient’s specific goals and lifestyle. It is never too late to lose weight and take control of your health. It may be challenging and may take a while, but Swedish is here to support you. To find a location near you or to sign up to attend a free weight-loss seminar, visit www.swedishweightloss.com/seminars or call 206-215-2090.

signals to your brain about the position of your head and body (upright, tilted, etc.). If the crystals push on the hairs, the hairs send false signals to your brain. Your brain thinks your head and body are tilted when they really aren’t. The false signals cause vertigo — the sensation that the room is spinning.

Treating BPPV Talk with your primary-care provider if you experience vertigo. He or she can evaluate, diagnose and treat BPPV. In 80-90 percent of cases, BPPV is treated successfully with a short, simple office procedure called a particle repositioning maneuver to help move the crystals out of the canal. Without treatment, symptoms of BPPV may get worse. Patients with severe cases of BPPV may need a referral to the Balance Center at the Swedish Neuroscience Institute (SNI).

The Balance Center at SNI The Balance Center brings together many different specialists

Special Services for Kids with Special Needs

Children with special needs are VIPs at Swedish. The Pediatric Therapy Services team includes

highly skilled pediatric physical and occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists. These special-ists have dedicated their careers to helping kids and their families. They work together to address the children’s needs and help them maximize their potential to play, learn and engage at home, school and in the community. No two children are alike, so each child receives a very personalized care plan based on his or her needs. Because parents and guardians are integral members of their child’s therapy team, all sessions include direct treatment and parent/patient education. “It is a joy to work with these children, and to work with parents to develop the best therapy plan for their child’s particular needs,” says Shana Nielsen, OTR/L, department manager. Call 206-386-3592 for more information about Pediatric Therapy Services at Swedish, or to schedule an appointment.

to evaluate patients for conditions that may affect the patient’s walking, balance and strength. This team of specialists diagnoses and treats dizziness, vertigo, inflammation and other balance-related conditions. For more information about the Balance Center at the Swedish Neuroscience Institute, go to www.swedish.org/balance.

Create a Healthier TomorrowYour gift supports patient care, research

and education throughout Swedish. For more donation information visit:

swedishfoundation.org