When your doctor requests advanced imaging, like an MRI or CT scan, to diagnose your ailment, you may be unsure of what that means and where to go. Advanced imaging provides a more detailed look into your body’s structures, including muscles, veins, tendons, and organs, like your lungs, that x-rays or an ultrasound can’t help with diagnosing. An MRI (magnetic resonance … [Read more...]
Can You Avoid the Cold and Flu Season?
Colds and flus have become synonymous with the holiday season. Once the kids are back in school, noses start to sniffle and throats begin to tickle. Getting sick is unavoidable, or is it? In a sea of crumpled Kleenexes and cough-drop wrappers, is there hope for a germ-free season? Some local experts gave their best advice on prevention, vaccinations and … [Read more...]
BeWell@Home: Embracing Age with Support and Peace of Mind
An advocate is someone who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy. Katharine Hassell does that and more as a wellness coordinator with BeWell@Home. “No two humans are the same,” Hassell said. “The first thing I do when I meet a new client is figure out how I fit into their lives. Each of our members has a different support system. Some of our members … [Read more...]
Fearless Fighters: Local Families Share Stories of Childhood Cancer Awareness
You may already be aware that September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. If you are, then you know that gold is the ribbon used to recognize childhood cancer. Unfortunately, childhood cancer remains the leading cause of death by disease for children under the age of 14, according to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Thankfully, there are also positive stories of … [Read more...]
Pitt Street Pharmacy: Medicine for the Soul
Nestled in the heart of Mount Pleasant, Pitt Street Pharmacy has been a cherished local establishment since 1937. Known for its nostalgic soda fountain and commitment to personalized care, this historic pharmacy has recently undergone a transformation under the ownership of Brandi Sherbert. Although she may be the new owner, Sherbert’s connection with Pitt Street Pharmacy runs … [Read more...]
Is it Just a Sprain? A Look at Foot and Ankle Health
Ankle sprains are among the most common conditions treated by foot and ankle surgeons, with 10-20% progressing to chronic pain, instability and even arthritis. Chronic instability is caused by injured ligaments failing to heal correctly. The diagnosis of chronic instability is made by analyzing the patient’s history and exam. X-rays and MRIs may be necessary to evaluate the … [Read more...]
Phi Life Sciences: Improved Outcomes
Phi Life Sciences, headquartered in the SCRA MUSC Innovation Center, is Charleston’s oldest commercial molecular diagnostic laboratory. Established in 2016, they are a high-complexity, CLIA-accredited lab focused on human genomics, cancer prognostics, Alzheimer’s, dementia and molecular infectious disease. “Our patients are the most important focus for us,” said CEO Sawan … [Read more...]
It’s All in the Smile: How Oral Health is the Road to Success
The smile is a special thing. It isn’t bound by age, status or even language. It’s something that we’re born able to achieve, and that is understood by everyone. Maybe that’s why it’s more contagious than the flu and the most reciprocated facial expression humans make. A true gift from nature, smiling helps the human body release cortisol and endorphins. The release of these … [Read more...]
Meet the Superhero of CCSD Nursing: Ellen Nitz
The pandemic has changed lives around the world and put those in the medical field in the spotlight. Ellen Nitz knows this firsthand due to her work with the Charleston County School District as Director of Nursing Services. Because of COVID-19, Nitz doesn’t just have the role of director; she is also the spokesperson for the media. This isn’t a typical task for a nurse … [Read more...]
Calling All Dental Patients Sedation Dentistry of Charleston
If you’re a senior experiencing fear and anxiety about having dental procedures performed, you’re not alone. According to Dr. Robert Carimi of Sedation Dentistry of Charleston, this is fairly common for a lot of people, including seniors. In fact, he compared the prevalence of dental fear to fear of heights or arachnophobia. Fortunately, Carimi’s practice offers various … [Read more...]
Compounding Pharmacies Allow Medication Customization: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
You may have heard the term compounding before, but unless you’ve been prescribed compounded medication, you are probably unfamiliar with its methodology and benefits. Brandi Sherbert, a pharmacist with Pitt Street Pharmacy, which offers compounding services, explained that the process involves taking pure powders of various chemicals and mixing them into a variety of … [Read more...]