Author Archives: dzadmin

04.03.20
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Anxiety and Heart Disease

chest pain anxiety heart disease tampa cardio

chest pain anxiety heart disease tampa cardioAnxiety disorders affect 40 million adults in the USA. 

Anxiety can make your body feel like you are having a heart attack. Chest based feelings of butterflies to sharp pains are not uncommon. 

Anxiety is not healthy in the short term but long term it can cause you to become ill emotionally and physically. Chronic anxiety can raise your risk for heart issues.

While small amounts of stress are healthy and even motivating, feeling worried or anxious now and then is normal. It’s when it becomes chronic that it may pose a negative threat to your wellbeing.

Generalized anxiety disorder is defined by at least 6 months of excessive worrying or feeling anxious about unrelated events. Approximately 5% of adults meet the criteria for this disorder. The incidence is higher, coming in at 11% among those with coronary artery disease and 13% of those with heart failure.

It has not been established whether anxiety sets off heart disease or vice versa. It is known that chronic anxiety can change the way the body reacts to stress. This happens via hormones and physiological reactions meant to keep us safe – known as the flight or fight response.

If your fight or flight response is constantly engaged it can lead to heart issues as well as adrenal burn out which may, in turn, cause other endocrine system issues.

Anxiety can present the same symptoms as a heart attack

A panic attack is so very similar in feel to a heart attack people often mistake them. Upon a trip to the ER, you will receive a diagnosis of non-cardiac chest pain. As many as 1 in 3 people will experience this in their lifetime.

What can you do?

The best answer medical professionals have found so far is a combination of medication and talk therapy. A cognitive-behavioral therapist will help you identify unwanted thoughts and establish what is anxiety-based and what is something that genuinely needs to be looked at and considered.

Medications work as a temporary bandaid to allow you to get through tough anxiety-filled times while working through the root cause with a therapist or on your own using tools such as automatic writing, meditation, yoga, or other relaxation healing based activities.

Never ignore chest pain. It is far better to be safe than sorry. If you are in the Tampa Florida area and looking for a cardiologist we invite you to check out the physicians at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. www.tampacardio.com 813-975-2800.

04.02.20
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Sun Exposure and Varicose Veins

Vein-health-and-sun-exposure-west-florida-vein-cente

Vein-health-and-sun-exposure-west-florida-vein-centeIf you live somewhere where sunshine is a year-round presence you will want to know how it can affect your vein health! 

The Importance of sunscreen when it comes to veins

These days most of us do put on sunscreen when laying out catching some rays. Sunscreen can deter UVA and UVB rays from doing skin damage, aging the skin or leading to cancer. While many are aware of the dark spots or wrinkles the sun may cause but what many don’t think about how sun exposure can egg on spider veins to form on the nose or cause already active vein disease in the body to worsen. With people currently flocking to South West Florida for the end of the beach season, it’s important to be aware of how to protect your skin from the sun whether it’s on the beach or just gardening in the yard.

Can the Sun Actually Cause Varicose and Spider Veins?

Yes and no. The sun can cause spider veins. It cannot cause varicose veins.

Many people believe a good tan will hide the appearance of spider veins, which is true. However, it’s a temporary measure and one that can backfire if you get too much sun, causing even more spider veins to spread.

Should I Avoid the Sun?

The only time you really should avoid sun exposure is if you have recently had a vein removal done. It is important to protect the skin after such treatment. Doctors recommend that people who have undergone vein treatment surgery should remain out of the sun anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks. The sun’s rays can cause pigment changes in the skin. Once the doctor clears you to go in the sun, it is important to apply sunscreen to the area to protect the skin.

Spider Veins: The sun breaks down collagen under the skin and in blood vessels right beneath the surface causing spider veins to appear. Sun exposure may also cause veins in your face to do the same, especially in light-skinned individuals.

Varicose veins: On the other hand, varicose veins are never created by the sun. However, veins that are diseased may worsen in hot weather. The sun’s heat can cause the veins to dilate and enlarge causing venous distention. Venous distention is a condition in which veins swell due to being filled with more blood than is needed. An increase in blood and size means swelling and pain.

Sun exposure vein health West Florida Vein center

When Is the Best Time of Year to Get Veins Treated?

The winter months are the ideal time to get skin looking healthy for the summer. Most people don’t think of their veins during the colder months because we wear so much clothing, but it can make life a lot easier to get problems fixed before summer beach weather returns.

Why Winter Treatment is Ideal:

  • Veins can worsen in winter months from inactivity.
  • Veins could require additional treatments, so there is plenty of time to be ready for the warmer weather.
  • Compression hosiery is often worn before and after varicose vein procedures. These stockings are easier to wear or hide in cooler months.

Learn More About Sun Exposure and Veins

If you have concerns about sun exposure on your spider or varicose veins or have any other questions about treatments, schedule an appointment with a vein specialist. If you are in the greater Tampa area, you can schedule a visit with Dr. Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center at (727) 712-3233. www.westfloridaveincenter.com.

04.01.20
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Boost Your Health With Bone Broth Soup

Bone-broth-soup-dr-kaster

Bone-broth-soup-dr-kasterThrough this pandemic, it is more important than ever to keep your immune system strong and healthy.

Bone broth is an easy and inexpensive way to help your body do just that. It is a great way to strengthen your immunity as well as help heal the human body.

The gelatin found in bone broth supports digestion as well as helps to keep bones strong with collagen supply. Adding this broth to your diet can help reduce joint pain and lower inflammation. It contains elements of glucosamine, chondroitin sulfates and other health-boosting compounds.

Adding to the anti-inflammatory properties this soup also contains arginine, glycine, and proline as well as calcium and magnesium for bone strength. Bone broth soups can be made from any animal bone – chicken, beef, fish, pork, and lamb. Grass-fed animal bones would be best to avoid any contaminants.

There is truth in the old wives’ tale of chicken soup for a cold or flu. Bone broth is nutrient-rich and can help your body heal. If you are experiencing frequent colds, cases of flu, digestive issues, allergies, brain health, and even autoimmune issues, it just may benefit you.

The Recipe:

INGREDIENTS

  • 2-4 lbs. of bones from a healthy source
  • 4 Carrots cut up
  • 3 Onions cut up
  • Fresh Parsley (1/2 cup)
  • Pink Salt (dash)
  • 1 Garlic clove
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 4 Qt. Filtered water

DIRECTIONS

First – In a large pot place the ribs, bones, water, and vinegar. Let it sit for an hour on low heat. This allows the minerals to leach from the bones.

Second – Add the vegetables in and bring the water to a boil. A weird filmy scum will form on the top of the pot. Scrape that off and throw it away.

Third – Lower to a simmer. Cover and cook for 24-72 hours. This can also be done in a crockpot. Just transfer it over.

Fourth – When you are almost done, add in the garlic, parsley, and salt. It only really needs to be in there for 15 minutes to absorb. You may then turn off the heat.

Fifth – Allow the broth to cool, then strain the broth removing all of the bones. You can keep it in the refrigerator for a week or in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Consuming a cup of this broth a day has been shown to help boost health.

03.20.20
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Do Your Toes Turn In? You Might Be Pigeon Toed.

pigeon-toed-dr.-kaster-fort-myers-florida-chiropractic

Have you ever taken a look at yours or your child’s feet and thought “Oh how cute. The toes turn in?” While it is a cute trait that is thought of as standing with a shy or innocent stance it isn’t great for your posture or gait.

Being pigeon-toed (also called in-toeing) is a medical condition where your toes point in. It is a normal variation much like being flat-footed and can be genetic. Because it is present at birth most believe they simply have to live with it. The issue with not resolving this is that they also often end up chronically spraining their ankles. They may not even realize what they feel is a mild sprain, and over time, that can add up to damage. 

Think back to being a child.  Though your ankle may never have fully sprained, when you jumped off a swing or the monkey bars on the playground you would notice that you often didn’t land quite right and you would feel a sting spread up your ankle and shin on the side rendering you unable to move for a few seconds.

If you are pigeon-toed it is most noticeable when standing looking straight on. Toes hook inward. It can make initially learning to walk initially difficult because you are likely to trip over your own toes. 

The standard angle is 15 degrees pointed outwards, not straight ahead or inward. That puts tension on your entire foot, leg and hip joint. Many people who are pigeon-toed are also flat-footed which compounds the issue. The use of custom created orthotics can also assist greatly in this case in stabilizing the ankle and foot so you have a more sound solid base.

Chiropractic May Be Able to Help with Pigeon Toes!

If Tibial Torsion Exists – The tibia (shin bone) has not yet turned.

Your chiropractor can adjust a subluxation in the bones and explain how to stretch the appropriate muscles. Customized orthotics may also be made to go inside of the child’s shoes to help aid in the correction of the excessive pronation.  Shoes with good arch support and a work out program that supports the building of muscle in the legs and feet are also important. Soccer, running, and football are all recommended.

If The Culprit is Femoral Torsion – The Femur or thigh bone exhibits excessive pronation.

Stretching and strengthening focused on the hip rather than the leg – sports like bicycling, ballet and gymnastics are encouraged.

In both cases – stretching, strengthening and using low force strategies like the instance activator method

If the Metatarsus ductus is the cause – This involves the foot itself. Adjustments will concentrate on the bones of the foot and orthotics can be used if it continues past age 7.

Left untreated incorrect mechanics and foot movement can lead to more problems down the road. If you or your child are pigeon-toed it is important to consult a good podiatrist and or chiropractor to avoid damage later in life.

If you are in the Fort Myers, Florida area we invite you to make an appointment with the office of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C.

Chiropractor | Nutritionist in Ft Myers, FL

Fort Myers Chiropractor, Dr. Jason B. KasterChiropractic care is a safe, alternative treatment when applied appropriately. Chiropractic treatments help in dealing with the symptoms of many conditions. Add to that, nutritional recommendations that can help your body heal itself. Are you going to wait for your symptoms to be felt, or are you going to prevent it as soon as possible?

Dr. Jason B. Kaster, a chiropractor in Fort Myers can help you and your family achieve their optimal health.

      SCHEDULE NOW!
239-332-2555
03.10.20
by

PCS – Pelvic Congestion Syndrome – Diagnosis and Treatment

Pelvic-Congestion-Syndrome-Tampa-Cardio

Pelvic-Congestion-Syndrome-Tampa-CardioPelvic Congestion Syndrome is a chronic medical condition that affects nearly 1/3 of all women at some point during their lifetime.

Pelvic congestion syndrome is a condition that causes chronic pain in the pelvic region. When this happens, the veins in your pelvis can enlarge and change shape, like varicose veins. This type of damage causes veins to become varicose. Blockages create backflows of blood because the veins do not close properly anymore. The result is pressure build-up and bulging veins. When this happens in the region of the pelvis varicose veins can affect the uterus, vulva, and ovaries causing great pain and distress.

 It can be diagnosed when it is nonrelated to the menstrual cycle and lasts 6 months or longer (the time frame for a condition to be considered chronic). This condition is aggravated by standing for long periods of time.

How to Diagnose PCS

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome may occur in a wide range of ages for women between 20 and 50 years of age. Additional symptoms can include abnormal menstrual bleeding, irritable bladder, vaginal discharge and even visible varicose veins present on the thighs, vulva or buttocks. These areas are often overlooked and do not show up on imaging. Because of this, it is often tough to diagnose. Make sure you do a thorough at-home mirror check of your entire body and report any abnormalities to your doctor.

If pelvic pain worsens later in the day or when standing yet you can’t seem to get a proper diagnosis to come into Tampa Cardiovascular Associates we are able to work in conjunction with your gynecologist.

The Treatment

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with IV sedation. The blood supply to the veins is blocked by the use of coils and embolic agents. An 80% pain reduction has been reported by those who have undergone this procedure.

Pelvic congestion syndrome is treated using minimally invasive, non-surgical, trans-catheter techniques. Contrast dye may be injected to confirm which veins are affected. If varices are found on venography, they are embolized with small coils or other FDA approved chemical agents.

The Recovery

The first of two visits is an overnight admission to the hospital. The purpose is for managed pain care during the first 24 hours. The patient is then discharged and can recover at home using oral pain medication for the relief of discomfort. Any pain experienced is most significant during the first three days after either procedure.

The second is an outpatient appointment. Most patients see great improvement. It is important to note that in some cases other pelvic veins are also affected and may require further treatment in the future.

If you are experiencing pelvic pain that seems outside the scope of normal monthly reproductive cycle issues, please give us a call at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates at 813-975-2800. www.TampaCardio.com

03.04.20
by

Sun Exposure – What You Need to Know When it Comes to Varicose and Spider Veins

Sun-exposure-vein-health-West-Florida-Vein-center

Sun exposure vein health West Florida Vein centerSummer in the sunshine state means shorts, bathing suits, and cool summer wear. It can be massively frustrating and limiting to have vein issues. It is just too hot out to be wearing long pants all the time.

Sunscreen and Vein Issues

Most of us do wear sunscreen when laying out getting some sun. Wearing sunscreen can deter UVB and UVA rays from doing skin damage, skin aging or stimulating cancer cells. While many are aware of the dark spots or wrinkles the sun may cause but what many don’t think about how sun exposure can egg on spider veins to form on the nose or cause already active vein disease in the body to worsen. With people currently flocking to South West Florida for the end of the beach season, it’s important to be aware of how to protect your skin from the sun whether it’s on the beach or just gardening in the yard.

Does the Sun Cause Varicose and Spider Veins?

This is a complicated answer. The sun can cause spider veins. It cannot cause varicose veins.

Many people believe a good tan will hide the appearance of spider veins, which is true. However, it’s a temporary measure and one that can backfire if you get too much sun, causing even more spider veins to spread.

Varicose veins: On the other hand, varicose veins are never created by the sun. However, veins that are diseased may worsen in hot weather. The sun’s heat can cause the veins to dilate and enlarge causing venous distention. Venous distention is a condition in which veins swell due to being filled with more blood than is needed. An increase in blood and size means swelling and pain.

Spider Veins: The sun breaks down collagen under the skin and in blood vessels right beneath the surface causing spider veins to appear. Sun exposure may also cause veins in your face to do the same, especially in light-skinned individuals.

Is the Sun to Be Avoided?

In general, no. However, after vein removal procedures it is important to protect the skin. Doctors recommend that people who have undergone vein treatment surgery should remain out of the sun anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks. Sunshine may cause pigment changes in the skin. Once the doctor clears you to go in the sun, it is important to apply sunscreen to the area to protect the skin.

 

What Is the Best Time of Year to Get Veins Treated?

The winter months are the ideal time to get skin looking healthy for the summer. Most people don’t think of their veins during the colder months because we wear so much clothing, but it can make life a lot easier to get problems fixed before summer beach weather returns.

Winter Treatment is Ideal:

  • Compression hose are often worn before and after varicose vein procedures. These stockings are easier to wear or hide in cooler months.
  • Veins can worsen in cold weather months due to lack of activity.
  • Veins could require additional treatments, so there is plenty of time to be ready for the warmer weather.

 More About Sun Exposure and Veins

If you have concerns about sun exposure on your spider or varicose veins or have any other questions about treatments, schedule an appointment with a vein specialist. If you are in the greater Tampa area, you can schedule a visit with Dr. Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center at (727) 712-3233. www.westfloridaveincenter.com.

03.01.20
by

Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. – Auto Accident Injury Help

auto-accident-injury-florida-fort-myers-dr-kaster

auto-accident-injury-florida-fort-myers-dr-kasterThe Best Course of Action Following an Accident

If you’re not sure about what medical action to take following your automobile accident and are concerned about who will pay for the cost, call our Fort Myers chiropractic office for a consultation to discuss what you are feeling, what your injuries are, how treatment will be paid for, and what you need to do to preserve your rights and get back your health.

Fort Myers Chiropractor Dr. Jason B. Kaster has the knowledge and years of experience to provide you with the comprehensive care that you need.

Why choose Dr. Kaster as your auto accident treatment doctor

Dr. Kaster Offers the Best Comprehensive Care

Chiropractic is the best care for this type of injury. It has been showing to enhance the healing process.

Our chiropractic goal is to restore both structural integrity and function so you can return to your former condition.

Learn more about how your body heals after an accident when under chiropractic care.

http://drkasters.com/conditions/auto-accident-injuries/soft-tissue-injuries-and-healing/

Established Community Partnerships

Dr. Kaster works with other physicians and specialists in the area who treat and accept automobile injury patients and insurance making the process as simple as possible so you do not have to keep filling out the same paperwork over and over again.

His network includes attorneys, neurologists, orthopedics, MRI and diagnostic facilities, and even car repair facilities.

Want to know more about how Chiropractic can help with auto injuries?
http://drkasters.com/conditions/auto-accident-injuries/

State-of-the-art Equipment

Dr. Kaster has all the latest equipment to treat your injuries: ultrasound, laser, massage, electrical stimulation, traction, decompression, and more.

Techniques used

http://drkasters.com/services/chiropractic/techniques/

The full list of treatments
http://drkasters.com/services/chiropractic/treatments/

Come see us! In the state of Florida, you have only 14 days to seek treatment in order to have it covered under your PIP (Personal Injury Protection) Insurance. So do not delay!

Chiropractor | Nutritionist in Ft Myers, FL.

Fort Myers Chiropractor, Dr. Jason B. KasterChiropractic care is a safe, alternative treatment when applied appropriately. Chiropractic treatments help in dealing with the symptoms of many conditions. Are you going to wait for your symptoms to be felt, or are you going to prevent it as soon as possible?

Dr. Jason B. Kaster, a chiropractor, and nutritionist in Fort Myers can help you and your family achieve their optimal health.

239-332-2555

02.16.20
by

Not Familiar With Chiropractic? – Let’s Get Back to Basics

what-is-chiropractic-dr-kaster-fort-myers

Chiropractic is used around the world by those who wish to prevent illness and injury as well as those seeking relief from pain and disease. It is a healing art form as well as a medically-based treatment.  It has been proven around the world to help relieve pain, improve health, and bring back nervous system function.

What is the Nervous System and Why is it Important?

The nervous system controls every organ in the body. The central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord. Nerves then branch out from the spinal cord to reach each organ and cell transmitting information vital to movement, regeneration, and health. When viewed on its own our nervous system does resemble tree roots.

Yoru health is dependant on the function of the nervous system due to the electrical impulses carried to and from the brain to varied organs.  If you sustain an injury anywhere along the spine – perhaps you throw out your back or neck, causing restricted movement, the currents along the nerves are also compromised.

An out of alignment vertebra is called a subluxation. A subluxation (or misalignment) within the spine causes pain and discomfort and can make other parts of your body work harder to make up for the injury.

If left untreated the joints can become damaged and swollen. They then release inflammatory chemicals causing localized and potentially system-wise inflammation. It can even result in compression or herniation of a spinal nerve or disc.

Subluxations may cause:

  • Aching
  • Inflammation
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Restricted movement
  • Sciatica
  • No noticeable symptoms

If left untreated it may eventually manifest as other health problems including diseases.

Chiropractic helps to identify where subluxations exist and gently and effectively get them back in place so you can live pain-free, halting that chance of further disease progression.

Could Chiropractic be right for you?

We would love to talk with you and see you in our office for a consultation.
Give us a call to schedule at 239-332-2555 if you are in the greater Southwest Florida / Fort Myers, Florida area.

Chiropractor | Nutritionist in Ft Myers, FL.

Fort Myers Chiropractor, Dr. Jason B. KasterChiropractic care is a safe, alternative treatment when applied appropriately. Chiropractic treatments help in dealing with the symptoms of many conditions. Are you going to wait for your symptoms to be felt, or are you going to prevent it as soon as possible?

Dr. Jason B. Kaster, a chiropractor, and nutritionist in Fort Myers can help you and your family achieve their optimal health.

239-332-2555

02.10.20
by

Vein Ligation and Stripping – The Recovery Process, What to Expect

When a patient decides to have any type of procedure performed it is important that each detail not only of the procedure but also of the recovery expected is to be discussed. No one likes surprises when it comes to their health and healing.

Though the vein treatment may take only a few minutes, your body will need some additional care and rest afterward.

Your own recovery time may vary. Everyone recovers at a slightly different rate. This is based on the average experience of all of our patients.

What to Expect Post Vein Ligation and Stripping

Please continue to wear tight compression dressings for the first 3 days post-surgery. If you have stitches they will dissolve on their own or your doctor will let you know they need to be removed if non-dissolvable within 14 days.

Make sure to rest for 3 to 7 days. Veins removed will be immediately nonvisible. Those injected will take time to fully dissolve and disappear from sight.

Your legs may feel a little stiff or sore for a few weeks. We do prescribe pain medication to manage this so your recovery period is comfortable. Your legs in the areas they worked on may be slightly bruised.

Self Care at Home

  1. Get plenty of sleep
  2. Limit activity for a few days as instructed by your physician
  3. Walk. Add a few more steps each day
  4. Avoid strenuous activities
  5. Prop your legs up on a pillow many times throughout the day
  6. Do not drive until you are given the go-ahead
  7. You may shower after the compression dressing comes off. Please do not take a bath for the first two weeks.
  8. Take all medicine as directed
  9. Ice and elevate. 10-20 minutes at a time. 
  10. Follow up with your physician as directed.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to call – especially during your recovery. 

Schedule your consultation today: www.westfloridaveincenter.com (727) 712-3233.

02.03.20
by

ARE YOUR SUPPLEMENTS WORTH THE MONEY? – HOW TO TELL!

supplements-revealed

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED???… 🥦

“Am I taking the right supplements for me?” 💊

“Am I getting what I pay for?” 🥑

“Can supplements really replace my prescription medication?” 🌿

“Is there a better manufacturer or brand that I don’t know about?

“Can I get high quality and save money?” 💵

“Can I trust the Amazon ratings of supplements?”

“How exactly are the supplements I’m taking working in my body?”

“Do I need to take all supplements forever — or can I stop after a time — and how long?”

“Can I get what I need just from my diet?” 🥤

“Is the money I spend on supplements paying off?”

“Are there supplement marketers that really game the system?” 🎚

“Can I trust what the marketers tell me?” 📞

“What about CBD? – Should I be taking it? — Is it just a fad?”

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