Surgery Group LA

Surgery Group LA
Understanding the Early Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a highly prevalent type of cancer affecting women worldwide. Every year, numerous women receive a diagnosis, emphasizing the significance of early detection and prevention. Recognizing the early symptoms of breast cancer is crucial for identifying and managing the disease in its early stages. In this article, we will explore the various signs and symptoms of breast cancer, provide guidance on conducting self-examinations, and offer advice on when to seek medical attention. By gaining knowledge and awareness, you can take proactive measures toward breast cancer prevention and early detection. Join us as we delve into vital information about understanding the early symptoms of breast cancer.

The Importance of Early Detection in Breast Cancer

Early detection plays a crucial role in the successful treatment and recovery of breast cancer. Detecting the disease at an early stage improves the chances of effective treatment and prevents its spread to other parts of the body. Moreover, early detection can lead to less invasive treatment options and a higher likelihood of preserving breast tissue.

It’s important to note that not all breast tissue changes or lumps are cancerous. However, being aware of any changes and promptly reporting them to your doctor is essential. Understanding the early signs and symptoms of breast cancer and regularly undergoing screenings can help detect the disease early and increase the chances of survival.

Understanding Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can affect both men and women, although it is more common in women. The disease occurs when breast tissue cells begin to grow abnormally and form a tumor that can spread if left untreated. While various types of breast cancer exist, certain early symptoms are common among all types. These symptoms include lumps in the breast tissue, changes in breast appearance, nipple discharge, and pain. Awareness of these symptoms and seeking medical attention if they occur is crucial.

Early Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Early symptoms of breast cancer can differ from person to person. However, some common signs include changes in breast appearance, nipple discharge or pain, and lumps or thickening in the breast tissue. It’s important to remember that not all breast tissue changes or lumps are cancerous. Nonetheless, any changes should be reported to a doctor for evaluation.

Physical Breast Cancer Symptoms to Look Out for

Breast Appearance Changes

Changes in the appearance of the breast are often an early indication of breast cancer. These changes can involve swelling, redness, and alterations in the skin texture. Additionally, the breast may exhibit dimpling or puckering, and the nipple may become inverted. Such changes can manifest in one or both breasts.

Nipple Discharge and Pain

Nipple discharge or pain is another common early symptom of breast cancer. The nipple may release a clear or bloody discharge, and the breast may experience tenderness or soreness. It is crucial to report any nipple discharge or pain to a doctor, as they could be indicative of breast cancer.

Lumps and Thickening

The presence of lumps or thickening in the breast tissue is another frequent early symptom of breast cancer. These lumps may feel hard and immovable, and they can be found in one or both breasts. It is important to note that not all lumps are cancerous, but they should be reported to a doctor for further evaluation.

Other Symptoms to Note

In addition to the physical symptoms mentioned above, there are other symptoms to be aware of, such as fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or swelling in the armpit. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Any changes in breast tissue should be reported to a doctor immediately. Additionally, if any of the symptoms mentioned above are experienced, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A doctor may perform a physical examination, imaging tests, or a biopsy to determine if the changes in breast tissue are cancerous.

Related: How to do a breast self-exam?

Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnosis

Breast cancer screening is a vital tool for early detection. Women over 40 should have a mammogram every one to two years, and those at higher risk may need more frequent screenings. Regular self-examinations are also recommended to check for any changes in breast tissue. If breast cancer is suspected, a doctor may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis, involving the examination of a small tissue sample under a microscope.

Final Thoughts

Breast cancer is a life-altering disease that impacts numerous women annually. However, by detecting and treating it early, women can enhance their chances of survival and recovery. Understanding the early symptoms of breast cancer is vital for recognizing and effectively managing the disease. It is crucial to be vigilant about any changes in breast tissue and promptly inform your doctor. Regular breast cancer screenings and self-examinations are also important to monitor for any alterations in breast tissue. With the right knowledge and awareness, women can actively engage in breast cancer prevention and early detection.

June 2, 2023

Surgery Group LA  ·  Thyroid
Impact of Thyroid Removal on Hormonal Balance and Weight Management

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck that plays a crucial role in regulating our hormones and metabolism. Unfortunately, some individuals may experience thyroid-related conditions that require surgical intervention, known as a thyroidectomy leading to the removal of all or part of the gland. 

While surgery may be necessary to manage certain thyroid concerns, it can also have a significant impact on hormonal balance and weight management. As a result, individuals who undergo thyroid removal may experience a range of symptoms, including weight gain, fatigue, and mood changes. 

In this article, we’ll explore the impact of thyroid removal on hormonal balance and weight management, as well as strategies for managing these changes. Whether you’re preparing for thyroid surgery or recently underwent the procedure, this article will provide valuable insights and tips to help you navigate the potential challenges of thyroid removal.

The role of the thyroid gland in hormonal balance and weight management

The thyroid gland plays a critical role in regulating hormones and metabolism. It produces two hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which help regulate energy production and metabolism. These hormones control the body’s metabolism, which affects how many calories are burnt at rest. The thyroid gland also produces calcitonin, which helps regulate calcium levels in the body. Hormones produced by the thyroid gland are essential for maintaining a healthy weight, regulating body temperature, and controlling heart rate.

Causes of thyroid removal

Thyroid removal is usually recommended to treat thyroid cancer, hyperthyroidism, goiters, or thyroid nodules that are overproducing thyroid hormones. In some cases, the thyroid gland may be removed due to non-cancerous conditions such as a thyroid cyst, severe thyroiditis, or Graves’ disease. In Graves’ disease, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to overproduce hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism. In such cases, removing the thyroid gland can help alleviate the symptoms and prevent further complications.

The impact of thyroid removal on hormonal balance

After thyroid removal, the body no longer produces thyroid hormones, which can result in hormonal imbalances. The lack of thyroid hormones can cause a condition called hypothyroidism, which can lead to weight gain, fatigue, depression, and other symptoms. Hypothyroidism can also cause a decrease in metabolism, leading to weight gain, and difficulty in losing weight.

In some cases, the remaining gland can compensate for the lost function, and the body can maintain a normal hormone level. However, in most cases, patients require lifelong hormone replacement therapy to supplement the missing thyroid hormones. Hormone replacement therapy involves taking synthetic thyroid hormone pills, usually levothyroxine, to replace the missing thyroid hormones.

The impact of thyroid removal on weight management

Thyroid removal can have a significant impact on weight management. After surgery, patients may experience weight gain due to several factors, including hormonal imbalances, a slower metabolism, and changes in appetite. Some patients may also experience an increase in appetite due to hormonal changes, which can lead to overeating and weight gain.

Managing weight after thyroid removal is challenging, but it’s not impossible. The key is to adopt healthy eating habits and engage in regular physical activity. Patients should also consult with their healthcare provider to determine an appropriate calorie intake for their age, gender, and activity level.

Managing weight after thyroid removal

Managing weight after thyroid removal can be challenging, but a few strategies can help control weight gain. 

  1. Patients should focus on maintaining a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. They should avoid high-calorie, high-fat foods, processed foods, and sugary drinks. 
  2. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help control hunger and prevent overeating.
  3. Physical activity is also essential for weight management after thyroid removal. Patients should engage in regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling, for at least 30 minutes per day. Exercise can help burn calories, increase metabolism, and improve overall health.

Hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy is usually required after thyroid removal to replace the missing thyroid hormones. Patients usually take levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone, to maintain normal hormone levels. The dosage is adjusted based on the patient’s age, weight, and other factors. It’s essential to take the medication as prescribed and to have regular blood tests to monitor hormone levels.

Lifestyle changes for managing hormonal balance and weight after thyroid removal

Lifestyle changes are essential for managing hormonal balance and weight after thyroid removal. Patients should avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as they can interfere with thyroid hormone absorption. Stress management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing, can also help relieve stress and improve overall health.

Patients should also get adequate sleep, as sleep deprivation can lead to hormonal imbalances and weight gain. It’s recommended to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Additionally, patients should consult with their healthcare provider before taking any supplements or herbal remedies, as they can interfere with hormone replacement therapy.

Coping with emotional changes after thyroid removal

Thyroid removal can also cause emotional changes, such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings. Coping with these changes can be challenging, but support from family, friends, and healthcare providers can help. Patients should also seek counseling or therapy to manage their emotional health and well-being.

Conclusion

Thyroid removal can have a significant impact on hormonal balance and weight management. Patients may experience weight gain, fatigue, and other symptoms due to hormonal imbalances and changes in metabolism. However, with the right strategies, such as healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and hormone replacement therapy, patients can manage their weight and hormonal balance after thyroid removal. Seeking support from family, friends, and healthcare providers can also help manage emotional changes and improve overall well-being.

May 10, 2023

Colorectal  ·  Surgery Group LA
Guide to Colorectal Cancer Screenings

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. To raise awareness and knowledge of the disease, the Surgery Group of Los Angeles is putting out a short guide on colorectal cancer screenings and advocating for people over 45 to get their first screening test.

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, is a common type of cancer that affects the colon or rectum. It develops from abnormal growths in the lining of the colon or rectum, known as polyps, which can become cancerous over time. Symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain or discomfort, fatigue, and weight loss. Risk factors include age, family history, personal history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, and a diet high in red or processed meat and low in fruits and vegetables. Colon cancer is often treatable when caught early through screening tests such as colonoscopies.

When Should I Get Screened?

The age at which you should begin screening for colon cancer depends very much on your symptoms and family history.

If you have a family history of CRC or advanced adenoma in a first-degree relative, it is recommended to undergo a colonoscopy every five years, beginning 10 years before the age at diagnosis of the youngest affected relative, or at age 40, whichever is earlier. 

Those with a single first-degree relative diagnosed with CRC or advanced adenoma at age 60 or older may start average-risk screening at age 40.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests

Tests for colon cancer are designed to detect cancer before symptoms arise. When done regularly, these tests can find colorectal cancer when it’s smaller and perhaps even easier to treat. While there are many screening options that we would like to go over with you today, the key is that you are tested. The types of tests that the American Cancer Society recommends are split into two major categories: Visual and Stool based screening. 

Stool Based tests can be separated into two categories: Blood-based and DNA based. While they are less invasive and simpler to perform, they need to be performed far more often than their Visual counterparts. 

  • Blood-based tests come in two forms: Fecal Immunochemical (FIT), or Guaiac-based fecal occult (gFOBT). Both can be performed at home and work by finding trace amounts of hidden blood inside of your stool. Both need to be performed once a year and may require you to avoid red meat and some medicines (ibuprofen, aspirin, and large amounts of Vitamin C) several days before testing. 
  • Stool DNA testing looks instead for certain DNA or gene changes that can form inside of your stool from polyps or cancerous cells. Some tests also check for blood as well. These tests are also can be performed at home, but only need to be done every 3 years 

If any of these tests show positive for blood or DNA changes, a colonoscopy must be performed. It does not however mean that cancer has formed in the colon, as it may also be Ulcers or Hemorrhoids. 

Visual Tests are recommended for patients that have an average to high risk of having colon cancer. They don’t have to be performed as often as their stool counterparts but often require more lead uptime.  

  • A Colonoscopy is the most common form of visual test and if nothing is found abnormal on an average risk patient, will not need to be performed for another 5-10 years. A flexible tube is inserted into the anus, where a small camera allows your doctor to observe the totality of your colon and rectum.  This test is done under twilight anesthesia.  There is of course the “bowel prep” and you will need a ride home, but the test is very safe. 
  • A CT Colonography is very similar to a colonoscopy but due to it being virtual, does not require sedation. It still requires drinking a bowel prep the day before. If any abnormalities are observed, a follow colonoscopy will need to be performed. While less painful, a CT Colonography must be performed every 5 years. 

Regular screening is key in preventing colorectal cancer. If polyps are found during the testing process, they can usually be removed before turning into cancer. If you’re 45 and older talk to your doctor about which test is right for you. Be sure to mention your family medical history, as that will provide key insight into testing your unique situation.  

March 21, 2023

Surgery Group LA
Early Signs of Gastric Cancer

Gastric or stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the world, but due to early testing and new research the amount of people dying from stomach cancer has dropped year by year.

Detecting stomach cancer is challenging, however, due to the fact that most symptoms are similar to a host of other digestive issues.

Am I at risk for gastric cancer?

While any chronic digestive symptom should be looked over by a doctor anyways, there are some crucial risk factors that may make you more likely to have gastric cancer.

These risk factors include:

  • Being over the age of 55
  • Smoking and drinking
  • Obesity
  • Previous chronic stomach illnesses

Helicobacter pylori infection 

One infection that is especially likely to cause stomach cancer is Helicobacter pylori infection. This infection is most common in young children and can cause damage to your lining without causing obvious symptoms. 

If you suffer from chronic nausea, and stomach conditions you may be asked about Helicobacter pylori infection. Fortunately, these infections are increasingly rare in the United States due to food contamination regulations.

Early warning signs of stomach cancer

The truth is, a variety of issues could explain every symptom of stomach cancer. Bloating, back pain, trouble eating or pooping, and nausea are common symptoms.

People who suffer from these symptoms may have not followed a decent diet for a few months and are paying for it. Your sleep is way off so now your body is struggling to hold up. If you are under 45, don’t smoke or drink to clear excess, it’s probably something else.

However, if you are:

  • throwing up solid food you just ate
  • Your vomit contains blood
  • Your poop is covered in tarry blood from the inside

These signs are more common only in cases of stomach cancer or cancer-like diseases.

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms chronically, a doctor visit is never a bad idea.

If you have financial questions, please consult this link for more information.

https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/individuals/Pages/Steps-to-Medi-Cal.aspx

We here at the Surgery Group of Los Angeles are to help you or a loved one if you have specific questions about cancer-related issues. Our team will assist you not just in operating your surgical needs, but help you make billing and insurance simple.

Please speak to a medical professional today about your gastric symptoms.

February 21, 2023

Surgery Group LA
What is causing the rising rates of colon cancer in young adults?
testing tubes with different solutions

Guys, the test results are in and they’re not pretty! 50 is no longer the age when you need to check for colorectal cancer. People who are under 50 now account for 10% of colorectal cancer cases. And the worst news is that we only have ourselves to blame.

Why young people are getting colorectal cancer so young?

The truth is poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. Couple this with smoking or drinking and young colons are going bad faster than our pandemic investment portfolio.

There are of course other factors. Age, race, and gender all play some part in your risk of developing colon cancer. 3-5% of people in developed countries have genes that put them at very high risk of Colon Cancer, caused by germline mutations in colon repair proteins (mmr).

But these mutations do not explain the recent uptick. The type of cancer that doctors are seeing in these cases grows sporadically. Genetic forms of colon cancers grow more steadily. New gene mutations could be the cause of some of these new cases. But new research shows there are more obvious risk factors to consider.

What can young people do to stay healthy?

Know your symptoms – if you or a loved one at any age develop these symptoms, it is imperative you speak to your doctor as soon as you can.

  • Rectal Bleeding – especially if your stool has rust-like blood forming inside of your stool
  • Unusual stools – dark stools, narrow thin stools, that may be a sign that your bowels are being obstructed
  • Changes in Bowel movements- this could either mean tough stools that only pass a few times a week (constipation), or loose watery stool (diarrhea) especially if this has gone on for longer than two weeks
  • Low energy or chronic exhaustion – this may be a sign of anemia or blood loss

Don’t be too alarmed! They are a variety of far less serious conditions, from hemorrhoids to a poor fiber diet to explain these symptoms. But you should still get tested, especially if there is any blood in your stool.

Make a lifestyle change – studies have shown that making these lifestyle changes can dramatically decrease your risk of developing colorectal cancer.

  • Drink in moderation – the American cancer association advises no more than two drinks for men or one drink for women, but any alcohol can increase your cancer risk
  • Quit smoking – the amount of damage smoking causes your body can fill a blog on its own, so quit as soon as you can. That includes e-cigs too!
  • Lose weight – your new year’s resolution won’t just help your pants fit better it could save your life!
  • Consume 25 grams of fiber a day – most Americans only consume 10 – 15 grams of fiber a day. This causes your body to have to strain to keep your colon clean.

The key is consistency, not intensity – no need to throw all your cigarettes in a bin or eat two pounds of Benefiber. Moderate your smoking with nicotine patches, consider adding a walk every couple of days. 

You can do a lot more good in a year doing a little than you could ever do in a week so stay consistent and be gentle with yourself when you inevitably get off track and just get back on.

If you or a loved one have questions or concerns about colorectal cancer, speak to your doctor today.

February 10, 2023

Surgery Group LA
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Symptoms, Causes, Colors, and More

Rectal bleeding is often a troubling sign of a host of different conditions. These can range from mild, such as hemorrhoids, the moderate, like an ulcer, or severe problems, such as colorectal cancer.

This can cause a lot of confusion and distress, which is why the Surgery Group of LA has made this handy sheet to help explain what the blood in your stool may mean.

What kind of rectal bleeding do I have?

Rectal bleeding can happen at various stages of the digestive process. Where it happens dictates the color, the amount, and where inside the stool the blood will start to form. 

While there are always exceptions, if your bleeding is:

  • Bright Red Blood – usually means bleeding that’s lower in the rectum near the anus
  • Dark Red or Maroon Blood – can signal bleeding in the small bowel or high in the colon
  • Blackish or tar-like stool (Melena) – likely means bleeding in the stomach, such as bleeding caused by an ulcer

Sometimes bleeding can’t be detected by the human eye and needs to be tested under a microscope. 

Rectal Bleeding Symptoms

Depending on the type of rectal bleeding you are enduring, you may experience very different symptoms. 

However rectal bleeding usually can come with: 

  • Feeling rectal pain and pressure
  • Mental confusion
  • Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

If you’re experiencing a more serious rectal condition you may also suffer from the:

  • Fast heart rate
  • Inability to urinate
  • Slipping into unconsciousness
  • Experiencing a sudden drop in blood pressure

This may be a sign that you are going through Shock, and you should get medical treatment immediately.

What causes rectal bleeding?

As mentioned earlier the type of conditions that cause rectal bleeding range from severe to mild.

Common mild conditions include:

  • Hemorrhoids – the most common cause of rectal bleeding, this condition occurs when veins inside the anus grow inflamed and causes bleeding into your stool. 
  • Anal fissures – not to be confused with Hemmorhoids, are sudden cuts that form after passing an especially hard stool

More serious, but still treatable conditions include:

  • Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis – this happens when small pouches called Diverticuli to develop in weakened sections of your intestine, if they get infected they can cause pussy yellowish blood that causes all sorts of abdominal symptoms and fever
  • Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome – IBS or IBD as it is also called, is a swelling of the small or large intestine, which can cause intestinal blockages, diarrhea, and cramping
  • Ulcers – these form when the fluids in your intestines are constantly out of homeostasis which damages the lining of your intestines

Or unfortunately, it may be a sign of:

  • Polyps – or growths in the lower digestive system, which can develop into cancer

What to do if I have rectal bleeding?

Depending on the severity of your symptoms you may want to set up an appointment with your doctor or go to urgent care.

It’s important that regardless of the cause your doctor is given a chance to perform some tests in order to verify your condition and make sure your treatment is appropriate.

And again, If you’re experiencing a more serious rectal condition you may also suffer from:

  • Fast heart rate
  • Inability to urinate
  • Slipping into unconsciousness
  • Experiencing a sudden drop in blood pressure

This may be a sign that you are going through Shock, and you should get medical treatment immediately.

If you or a loved one have questions or concerns about rectal bleeding speak to your doctor today.

February 10, 2023

Surgery Group LA
The relationship between HPV and Anal Cancer

Anal cancer is fairly rare for most people, in general about 1 in 500 develop anal cancer in their lifetime. In comparison, the chances a person will develop colorectal cancer is 1 in 22. However, rates of anal cancer are on the rise, especially for people who have HPV infections.

There are currently no specific numbers on how high HPV increases your risk of anal cancer. However, HPV was directly correlated to 630,000 cancer cases around the world, 35,000 of which were anal cancers.

Part of the reason for the inexact numbers on anal cancer is the lack of screening. The relationship between anal cancer and HPV had been known since 2014. However, only New York mandates routine screenings for anal cancer.

The more chronic the infection, the higher the risk

HPV causes such a high risk of anal cancer due to how it infects the body. HPV is actually a group of over 150 related viruses that can infect the surface of your skin on a cellular level. These infections are separated into high-risk and low-risk categories based on the type of HPV virus that infects you.

Low-risk infections, while still causing warts and other annoying skin conditions, do not cause cancer.

High-risk infections, however, such as HPV 16 and 18, have been shown to dramatically increase the chance that you develop anal cancer.

Other anal cancer risk factors

Anal warts

The types of HPV viruses that cause anal warts are also often the same kind of HPV that cause anal cancer. For this reason, it’s important to get your anal warts screened in order for your doctor to diagnose you properly.

Other types of cancer

While this may seem self-explanatory, women who develop cancers in the vulva, vagina, or cervix may also develop anal cancer. This is probably because HPV also helped cause these cancers as well.

HIV

While HIV’s relation to cancer could fill its own article, suffice to say, HIV infection greatly increases your chance of developing anal cancer compared to noninfected patients.

Sexual Activity

This is not simply because people who participate in sexual activity increase their chance of HIV and HPV infection. Both men and women who engage in receptive anal sex have a higher risk of anal cancer.

Smoking

Smokers who currently smoke increase their chances of getting all kinds of cancer, including anal cancer. Even with patients who have quit smoking, the number of cigarettes they’ve smoked in the past increases their chance of developing anal cancers.

Lowered Immunity

Patients who have undergone organ transplants, or have developed AIDS or other immune-suppressing disorders have a higher chance of skin infections. In turn, these skin infections can be the very ones that develop into anal cancer.

Conclusion

As more information on anal cancer comes out, it’s become clear that a once rare problem has a very likely chance of causing problems in your life.

If you or a loved one have HPV or have any of these other risk factors mentioned in this article, speak to a medical professional about anal cancer screening today.

February 1, 2023

Surgery Group LA
Understanding the 4 main types of cancer

Cancers are named and categorized by the parts of the body that if effects first. The primary site is the part of the body or region that cancer affects first. For example, if you develop colon cancer but it spreads to the kidneys or liver, it is still called colon cancer. The metastatic site is the part of the body that cancer spreads to.

Stages, such as stage 1 or stage 4 are named based on how far the cancer has spread and can vary based on the type of cancer it is attempting to organize. The stage your cancer is in will affect the type of treatment your doctor will prescribe and suggest.

Today we will go over the 4 most common types of cancer and the area of the body they affect: Carcinoma, Sarcoma, Lymphoma, and Leukemia.

Carcinoma

Carcinomas are the most common type of cancer. They affect the skin or the linings of your organs and glands. Common types of carcinomas include:

  • Skin cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Breast cancer

Sarcoma

Sarcomas are much rarer than Carcinomas. They cause less than 200,000 cases of cancer in the United States each year. Sarcomas cause problems in the connective tissues and body fat. Sarcoma cancers include cancers that also damage the bones, cartilage, and nerves as well. These include:

  • Soft tissue cancer
  • Bone cancer
  • Neural sheath cancer

Lymphoma

Lymphoma affects the lymph nodes of the body, as well as the spleen, bone marrow, and thymus glands.

Lymphoma is categorized into Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and is differentiated by the type of cancer cells the lymphoma is made of.

Leukemia

Leukemia is also a fairly rare type of cancer that affects the blood. Leukemia most often affects white blood cells but can affect all blood cell types. Leukemia is unfortunately also the most common form of cancer in children.

Leukemia is also characterized by the big difference between how it’s fast spreading (acute) and slow developing (chronic) form and operate.

These include: 

  • Acute and chronic myelogenous leukemia
  • Acute and chronic lymphocytic leukemia

No matter the type or stage, cancer needs a team to fight back. If your loved one believes you may have risk factors or are developing cancer, speak to a medical professional today.

February 1, 2023

Surgery Group LA
Hair, Skin, and Nail symptoms that may signal Thyroid problems

To be honest, winter can be awfully brutal. Between the snow or the rain, the dry air, or the tough winds, the winter can cause havoc on your body. This is especially true if your body is fighting a thyroid condition that you don’t even know about.

So while it is perfectly normal to have a bit of dry skin or a couple of bad hair days during this winter, you may be enduring a thyroid condition that needs treatment, especially if your symptoms are persisting and getting worse.

The surgery group of Los Angeles knows how often thyroid conditions go untreated, particularly for people who aren’t sure what thyroid symptoms are like.

To combat this, our thyroid health team has constructed this handy skin, nail, and hair checklist, especially for our readers who need to know when to see your doctor this winter.

Hair symptoms

It’s on your head, and we want to keep your hair looking great so if you notice any of these symptoms:

  • Eyebrows may start to thin or go missing entirely around the outer edges
  • Coarse brittle hair
  • Hair that breaks easily, or even falls out
  • Thinning hair or bald patches

While of course, these can be symptoms of other things, like maybe its a subtle sign that you need to spend a little more money on your conditioner but, if you experiencing any of these symptoms talk to your doctor right away

Skin Symptoms

Problems with your skin, are usually the first type of sign you’ll get that your thyroid is not working at its best.

Your skin can start to look:

  • Doughy, pale, swollen
  • Or in some cases warm and moist like a babies
  • Dry skin and leathery skin is the most common

Your skin can start to develop

  • goiters – growths around the neck
  • A yellowish-orange color on the palms
  • Deep noticeable lines and creases
  • Slow-healing wounds, or scratches
  • Rashes

Due to the weakening of your skin, you may particularly develop:

  • widening or swollen noses
  • Protruding eyes and eye pain
  • Sweating a lot more or less

Yikes, once your thyroid is unable to regulate your skin the way it’s supposed it can cause very noticeable problems.

Nail Symptoms

Your nails can also signify if you have a thyroid problem. What usually happens is your nails will start to look:

  • thick, brittle, and dry
  • Very visible ridges
  • Prone to peeling
  • Breaks easily
  • Thickening skin and swelling around the nail

If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a thyroid condition.

However, after speaking with your doctor, you can plan blood tests and checkups that will allow you guys to understand what your body is going through. If you have questions about your thyroid, it’s time to speak to your doctor today.

January 16, 2023

Surgery Group LA
Hidradenitis Suppuratavia vs Pilonidal Cysts: What’s the Difference?

Hidradenitis Suppuratavia or HS, or acne inversa, is a skin disorder that affects the sweat glands in your body. However, HS may appear to be a lot of other conditions.

This is especially true for pilonidal cysts. This is because both:

  • It can be found in the upper buttocks or tailbone
  • Both cause painful lumps around the skin
  • Similar risk factors

Big Difference #1 – HS is a genetic disorder

Pilonidal Cysts and HS express themselves in the body in a lot of the same ways. Both cause painful lumps on the skin that won’t go away. Both symptoms are caused by pressure and irritation. The difference is that HS is a chronic skin disorder, while Pilonidal cysts are infections caused by friction, ingrown hairs, and too much pressure in the buttock’s tailbone area

HS on the other hand is a condition that directly affects the apocrine glands or basically the sweat glands that rest between your skin and fat.

HS makes your body create excessive amounts of inflammatory proteins called cytokines. When these cytokines build up on the apocrine glands we mentioned earlier, your apocrine gland starts to secrete pus and irritate the skin around your:

  • Armpit
  • Groin
  • Buttocks

Big difference # 2 – HS can cause symptoms where Pilonidal cysts don’t

Both HS and Pilonidal Cysts can cause:

  • Hard lumps around the skin
  • Painful infections
  • General skin misery

But HS can affect any part of the body that has apocrine sweat glands, especially if they have been under chronic stress.

This means that HS can affect your:

  • Armpits
  • Groin
  • Under the breast
  • Neck

While pilonidal cysts usually remain near the tailbone and anal tract. In fact, due to their similarity, some researchers have theorized that chronic Pilonidal cysts are simply an expression of HS but more testing is needed.

Big Difference #3 – HS can’t be cured

While Pilonidal cysts also have a bad habit of reoccurring, HS can be incredibly stubborn in sticking around.

Treatments for Pilonidal Cysts and HS do overlap somewhat. Both can be treated using antibiotics, but unfortunately, this does not treat the underlying inflammation.

Generally speaking, your doctor will probably suggest the following:

  • Maintains a healthier body weight
  • Stop or cut down on smoking and drinking
  • Eat a healthier diet

Both Pilonidal Cysts and HS can be treated surgically, but your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatories such as Humira for HS to deal with inflammation directly.

Big Simarility #1 – both need a talk with your doctor

Left untreated pilonidal cysts can grow infected and cause extreme pain. HS can be painful and cause open wounds that can be tough to endure or look at.

If you or a loved one believe that your skin needs a checkup, speak to a doctor right away, and spare yourself another day of itchy pain.

January 16, 2023

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Surgery Group LA is a team of professional and board-licensed surgeons, who specialize of their respective fields. The institution’s project to offer sufferers with advanced and complete surgical care.

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