Vitamin D

Vitamin D is best known for its work in maintaining healthy bone strength. It’s a fat-soluble vitamin, which aids the small intestine in absorbing calcium. When vitamin D levels in the body are low, less calcium is absorbed from the diet, causing calcium to be released from the bones. This can lead to weak bones and the possible onset of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a major health problem for many elderly patients and typically appears after menopause. In addition to hip factures, pain and suffering, it is also the indirect cause of more deaths than breast cancer.

Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is critical for warding off serious illnesses. Research has indicated a link between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of several diseases including: heart disease, hypertension, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and adult onset diabetes. It has also been associated with depression and decreased energy levels. In pregnancy, vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of pre-eclampsia (toxemia) and gestational diabetes.

The majority of vitamin D that we accumulate is through the skin with exposure to the sun. Unfortunately, with the Montana climate and latitude, approximately 80% of Montanans are vitamin D deficient. Because of this, I recommend vitamin D supplements for nearly everyone.

The most common amount I see recommended by the experts is 2000IU of extra vitamin D per day. More is frequently prescribed if the D levels in the body are very low. Most milk is fortified with extra vitamin D and supplements can be obtained very inexpensively at the drug store.

It is nearly impossible to become vitamin D toxic from supplementation. If you would like to get a vitamin D level check, please ask your health care provider.

Douglas Neuhoff, MD

Tdap Vaccinations Help Prevent Pertussis

Pertussis, also known as Whooping Cough, is a highly contagious disease and can cause serious illness in infants, children and adults. It is the only vaccine preventable disease that has been associated with a growing number of deaths in the United States since the 1980’s.

The disease starts much like a common cold with congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and maybe a mild cough or fever. Within one to two weeks, severe coughing can begin and may continue for months. Pertussis can cause violent and rapid coughing until the air is gone from the lungs and you are forced to inhale with a loud “whooping” sound. While the distinct whooping sound is generally heard in children’s cases, it is not as common in adults.

Pertussis can result in serious complications including uncontrollable coughing fits that are severe enough to cause rib fractures, vomiting, and even pneumonia. Infants under 12 months of age are particularly at risk for Pertussis and often contract the disease from parents or siblings.

The Tdap vaccine, which stands for Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis, is the only type of combination vaccine that helps protect adults and adolescents from all 3 of these diseases. Even though you may have received the Pertussis vaccine as a child, these vaccines can fade over time and it is recommended that people ages 11 – 64 be revaccinated to ensure complete protection.

Billings OB-GYN Associates is pleased to provide Tdap vaccinations for our patients. Contact us to learn more about Tdap and find out if you and your family should consider being vaccinated. Our physicians will help you make the best decision to protect your wellbeing.

Preventative Care Insurance. Does Your Plan Have It?

Did you know, most health insurance plans include wellness or preventative care benefits at no additional cost, which can help you to avoid illness and improve your health. If your plan includes preventative care, you may not have to pay a copayment , co-insurance, or deductible to receive recommended preventive health services, such as screenings, vaccinations and counseling.

At Billings OB-GYN Associates, we help you get the most of your preventative care insurance to protect the health of you and your family. Our Well Woman Exam provides you with a review of your health habits and risk factors and a general exam to assess your overall wellness. The exam includes a breast exam and pap smear to screen for cervical cancer, and, for women over age 50, it also includes screening for colorectal cancer and evaluates your risk for osteoporosis.

You may also have access to additional preventive services offered by your other health care providers, such as:

• Blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol tests
• Many cancer screenings, including mammograms and colonoscopies
• Counseling on such topics as quitting smoking, losing weight, eating healthfully, treating depression and reducing alcohol use
• Routine vaccinations against diseases such as measles, polio or meningitis
• Flu and pneumonia shots
• Counseling, screening, and vaccines to ensure healthy pregnancies
• Regular well-baby and well-child visits, from birth to age 21

Contact your insurance provider to find out what preventative care benefits are available to you and your family.