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26/Apr/2023

Radio Health Chat #176

Welcome to josephpapotto.com, the official blog of Life in a Blender Family Medicine! I’m your host, Dr. Joe Papotto, and I’m excited to share with you a unique perspective on health and well-being through our radio show, Life in a Blender, Mind Bender, Radio Health Chat.

Our show covers a wide range of topics that impact your health, including new medical headlines, human interest stories, reviews of essential topics in medicine, and even exploring how the Bible meets science. But what sets us apart is our approach to medical care – we strive to treat people like humans, with compassion, good humor, and the “Care Factor”.

At Life in a Blender Family Medicine, we’re putting the “family” back in family medicine. We believe in dispensing medical care with an attitude of compassion and understanding, and our incredible and magical staff are dedicated to assisting you in obtaining the treasures of good health. We believe that people don’t care what you know until they know that you care, and we truly care about our patients.

In addition, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to my precious angel wife, Amy, who has been my unwavering support and the wing that enables me to soar onward and upward. We are all like angels with only one wing, and together, we can fly embracing each other.

So, join us on josephpapotto.com as we embark on this journey of exploring health and well-being with humor, wit, and wisdom. Together, let’s embrace a different kind of medical entertainment that focuses on what you really need to know to enhance your health and well-being. Stay tuned for our upcoming blog posts, and don’t forget to check out our radio show, Life in a Blender, Mind Bender, Radio Health Chat, on air or online. Thank you for being a part of our community, and let’s create a healthier, happier world together!

Title: Mind Excursion Slight Diversion: Weird, Wild, and Wonderful Facts

Today, we’re taking a mind excursion and diving into some weird, wild, and wonderful facts that will surely leave you intrigued. From cashew nuts to playing cards to camels, let’s explore some interesting tidbits that will make you say, “Ever Wonder Why???”

Have you ever noticed that you never see cashew nuts in their shells? It turns out that cashew shells contain a strong acid that can blister the skin. To make sure that all traces of the acid are removed, cashew nuts must be roasted. So, the next time you enjoy a handful of cashews, remember that they’ve gone through a process to ensure they’re safe to eat!

Now, let’s talk about playing cards. Did you know that the four suits we see in modern playing cards – hearts, spades, clubs, and diamonds – originated in France in the fourteenth century? It has been suggested that these four suits represent the four major classes of French society at that time. Hearts, shaped like a shield, represent the nobility and the church. Spades, shaped like a spear tip, represent the military. Clubs, shaped like clover, represent the rural peasant, and diamonds, shaped like the tiles associated with merchants’ shops, represent the middle class. So, the next time you play a game of cards, take a moment to appreciate the history and symbolism behind the suits!

Now, let’s move on to camels. Have you ever wondered why camels have humps? It’s not just for show – camels store fat in their humps! When camels cannot find food, they rely on the fat stored in their humps for energy. As the fat is used up, the hump shrinks, and in the case of the two-humped Bactrian camel, the tops of the humps flop over to one side. The humps regain their full shape once the camel eats again. In addition to serving as food storage bins, the fatty humps also provide insulation from the hot rays of the sun in the harsh desert environments where camels are found.

Isn’t it fascinating how nature has its own unique ways of adapting to different environments? These weird, wild, and wonderful facts remind us that there is always more to learn and discover about the world around us. So, take a moment to appreciate the little wonders and quirks that make our world so interesting and diverse.

Now, it’s your turn. What’s wild, wacky, sometimes wise, wonderful, and whimsical in your world today?

Welcome to Part 2 of our radio show, Life in a Blender, Mind Bender, Radio Health Chat, hosted by Dr. Joe Papotto. Today’s hot topic is hypertension (HTN), a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. We’ll delve into the causes, risk factors, and categories of HTN, as well as discuss some interesting tangential thoughts, take a break from our usual programming to explore how to discover God’s will for your life, and share some other cool stuff, time permitting.

But first, a special announcement! We are excited to welcome “Charlie” Graham, a family nurse practitioner, to our clinical team here at Dr. Papotto’ s office. Charlie is known for her intelligence, skill, and caring demeanor, and she’s eager to meet new patients. Don’t hesitate to call and schedule your new patient appointment with Charlie today!

Now, let’s dive into our hot topic for today – hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. We received a request for this topic from Loraine, a long-time listener from The Sons of Italy Club in Socastee. HTN is a condition in which the long-term force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently high, potentially leading to health problems such as heart disease and stroke.

Blood pressure is determined by two factors: the amount of blood your heart pumps and the resistance to blood flow in your arteries. When your heart pumps more blood or when your arteries are narrow, your blood pressure tends to be higher. However, most people with HTN have no signs or symptoms, making it a silent yet dangerous condition. Some individuals may experience symptoms such as headache, shortness of breath, chest pain, and even nosebleeds or conjunctival hemorrhages when their blood pressure is elevated.

So, how do we define and categorize hypertension? Blood pressure readings are given in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and consist of two numbers – the systolic blood pressure (SBP) and the diastolic blood pressure (DBP). The SBP measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart is contracting, while the DBP measures the pressure when your heart is relaxing.

Here are the categories for blood pressure:

Normal blood pressure: SBP < 120 mm Hg and DBP < 80 mm Hg

Pre-hypertension: SBP 120-139 mm Hg or DBP 80-89 mm Hg

Stage 1 hypertension: SBP 140-159 mm Hg or DBP 90-99 mm Hg

Stage 2 hypertension: SBP ≥ 160 mm Hg or DBP ≥ 100 mm Hg

Both numbers are important, and the target goals for blood pressure may vary depending on age and other factors. For example, in individuals over 60 years of age, systolic hypertension is common due to arterial hardening, so the SBP goals may be more flexible in older adults.

What are the causes and risk factors of hypertension? While most adults with HTN have “essential hypertension,” which is primarily due to genetic predisposition, there are other potential causes and risk factors to consider. These may include:

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
Kidney disease, such as renal artery stenosis (RAS) and adrenal gland tumors
Thyroid problems
Use of birth control pills (BCPs)
Illegal drugs and alcohol abuse
Aging
Race, with African Americans being at higher risk.
Obesity and lack of physical conditioning
Tobacco use
Low potassium intake in the diet
Chronic stress
Other chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes mellitus (DM)

Terrific Tangential Thought – Lobster: From Trash to Delicacy

Let’s take a dive into the history of lobster, which was not always the pricey delicacy it is today. It may surprise you to learn that in colonial America, lobsters were considered the “poor man’s protein” and even referred to as the “cockroach of the sea”. But how did lobster go from being a lowly food source to a fancy entree? Let’s explore the fascinating journey of lobster from trash to delicacy.

In Colonial America: Lobster, the “Poor Man’s Protein” In colonial America, lobsters were abundant and considered a cheap source of food. They were so plentiful that they were often fed to prisoners and servants, and having lobster shells in a house was even considered a sign of poverty. In fact, some servants made stipulations in their contracts to avoid being forced to eat lobster more than three times a week. Lobsters were not considered a delicacy, and their reputation was quite poor, earning them the nickname “cockroach of the sea”.

The Canning Industry and the Railroad: Changing Tides for Lobster The change in the perception of lobster started with the success of the canning industry in the 1840s. Canning allowed the demand for Maine lobster to be met in other areas of the East Coast, which led to increased availability and distribution of lobster. Additionally, the development of the railroad played a crucial role in changing the perception of lobster. Railways started serving lobster to passengers who were unaware of its previous reputation as a lowly food source. This exposure to lobster as an exotic item caused the demand for lobster to rise, leading to an increase in prices.

Lobster’s Changing Fortunes: From Exotic Item to Delicacy As demand for lobster increased, prices rose, and lobster started to be considered a delicacy again. By the 1920s, the price of lobster had reached its first peak, but the Great Depression caused a decline in its popularity once again. However, by the 1950s, lobster had regained its status as a delicacy, and it has remained a prized food item ever since.

Conclusion: The history of lobster is a fascinating tale of how perceptions and values around food can change over time. From being a cheap and abundant food source to becoming a luxury item, lobster’s journey from trash to delicacy is a remarkable story. So, the next time you enjoy a lobster platter at your favorite seafood restaurant, remember that lobster wasn’t always considered a pricey entree. It’s a great example of how our perception of food can evolve over time, and it’s a reminder to appreciate the value and history behind the foods we enjoy today.

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14/Mar/2023

Creativity is not just reserved for artists and musicians. In fact, creativity can benefit everyone, regardless of their level of artistic talent. According to Dr. Joseph Papotto, host of the popular radio show, “The Healing Power of Creativity,” engaging in creative activities can improve your health and well-being.

From painting and drawing to dancing and writing, creative activities have been shown to boost immune function, improve mood, and increase resiliency. Here are just a few ways that creativity can benefit your mind, body, and soul:

Creativity reduces stress and anxiety: Engaging in creative activities can provide a sense of calm and relaxation, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that art therapy can be particularly effective for individuals with anxiety disorders.
Creativity improves mood: Creating something can be incredibly rewarding and boost feelings of happiness and joy. Whether you are writing a poem or knitting a sweater, the act of creating can release dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.
Creativity enhances cognitive function: Engaging in creative activities can improve cognitive function and enhance problem-solving skills. Studies have shown that participating in creative activities can improve memory, attention, and concentration.
Creativity boosts immune function: Creating art can stimulate the immune system, helping to fight off illness and disease. Research has shown that art therapy can be particularly beneficial for cancer patients, helping to reduce pain, nausea, and other symptoms.
Creativity fosters self-expression and self-awareness: Engaging in creative activities can help individuals to express themselves in a nonverbal way. Art can provide an outlet for emotions and feelings that may be difficult to put into words, fostering self-awareness and personal growth.

So, how can you incorporate creativity into your daily life? Dr. Papotto suggests starting small by setting aside time each day for a creative activity. This could be as simple as writing in a journal, doodling, or coloring. You could also take an art class or join a writing group to connect with others who share your creative interests.

Incorporating art into your home or work environment can also have a positive impact on your well-being. Studies have shown that surrounding yourself with natural light, plants, and attractive design elements can improve mood, boost productivity, and reduce stress.

In conclusion, creativity has a powerful impact on our physical and emotional well-being. By engaging in creative activities, we can reduce stress, boost mood, and improve cognitive function. So, whether you are a professional artist or a beginner, consider adding a little creativity to your daily routine. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for it!

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23/Jan/2023

Now that we are in the New Year, it’s important to think about our health and ways to promote wellness and prevent disease. Unfortunately, in recent years, there have been stories in the media that are critical of the medical community’s attempts to get people into the system for health screenings. Some have used this as an excuse to avoid going to the doctor for check-ups.

However, Dr. Joseph Papotto, a physician serving the Myrtle Beach and Conway areas, argues that this viewpoint is based on a slanted interpretation of questionable data and that the healthcare system is made up of providers, big pharma, hospitals, and insurance companies who all want more treatment for financial gain.

Dr. Papotto suggests a rational approach to health screenings through the adult years. For adolescents, he recommends a sports physical examination (PE) to reveal early blood pressure problems, provide a gauge on growth and development, and open up a dialogue on sexual and behavioral issues. For college-aged students, he recommends catching up on immunizations and discussing present problems or family medical history.

For young adults in their 20s and 30s, Dr. Papotto recommends at least one full PE with labs in the 20s and two or three in the 30s. He advises that this is a time when the USPSTF recommends beginning screening for BP and cholesterol, especially for those with a strong family history of hypertension and at-risk ethnic groups. He also advises that women should begin Pap smears to screen for cervical cancer at 21 years old and men should be instructed on self-testicular exams.

For those in their 40s and above, Dr. Papotto advises that this is a strategic year for health screenings, where a reasonable approach can pick up early disorders before they cause irrevocable harm to the body. He advises that both men and women should get a full PE every year or two depending on their health status. We look forward to seeing you at our office. Set up an appointment here. Contact Dr. Papotto | +(843)347-4900 – Dr. Joseph Papotto

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23/Jan/2023

Welcome to the “Life in a Blender” blog, where Dr. Joseph Papotto, of Life in a Blender Family Medicine, shares some of the weird, wild, and wonderful facts he comes across in his daily work.

Did you know that America now has more people who speak Spanish than Spain? The only country in the world with more Spanish speakers than the US is Mexico. And with the fast food industry booming, as of 2022 there are 197,163 individual fast food restaurants in the United States.

But did you know that the jockstrap was invented in 1874 to help “bicycle jockeys” as they make deliveries on cobblestone streets in Boston? Or that 97% of clothes and 98% of shoes sold in the United States are imported?

When it comes to healthy choices, you might be surprised to learn that the number one source of antioxidants for Americans is…coffee! Nothing else comes close, not even fruits and vegetables.

But did you know that if you grunt when you hit a tennis ball, your shot will be approximately 3.8% faster? Or that the myth of people committing suicide around the holidays is just that – a myth? According to the CDC, suicides are actually lower in December than any other time of the year.

And did you know that people with blue eyes are more likely to be alcoholics than people with any other eye-color? Or that the person who is mentioned most often in the Koran is Jesus?

Jimi Hendrix wrote his classic song “The Wind Cries Mary” following an argument with his girlfriend, whose middle name is Mary, after she cooked him lumpy mashed potatoes. And the sound of most toilet flushes is in the key of E flat.

Lastly, do you know the word for someone giving an opinion on something that they know nothing about? An ‘ultracrepidarian’ is someone who criticizes, judges, or gives advice outside their expertise.

Baby elephants suck their trunks for comfort in the same way human babies suck their thumbs.

So, what’s wild, whimsical, wacky, wise, and wonderful in your life today?

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23/Jan/2023

Dr. Joseph Papotto discusses the holiday health hazards on his radio chat, including “I Got the Gout (Grout).” He talks about how holiday heart is a frequent occurrence around the holidays due to people drinking too much alcohol. This can lead to palpitations and even Atrial Fibrillation. He also mentions how colds, flu, and stomach bugs are common around the holidays due to families sharing gifts and food with each other. Accidental injuries also tend to increase during festive times such as sprains, strains, lacerations, falls, and burns. To prevent these mishaps, Dr. Papotto advises eating and drinking in moderation, taking decent contagious precautions while visiting, and slowing down and thinking before doing something that could put you in the ER.

Dr. Papotto also talks about gout, a kind of arthritis that can cause an attack of sudden burning pain, stiffness, and swelling in a joint, usually the big toe. Gout is caused by too much uric acid in the blood, and it is most common in men. He also mentions that gout can be caused by being overweight, drinking too much alcohol, eating too much meat and fish that are high in purines, and by taking certain medicines for blood pressure.

Lastly, Dr. Papotto talks about the myth that the human body is 80% water and states that the actual percentage of water in the human body is around 72%, with 8% chemical compounds and 20% bone and solid tissue. He also mentions the importance of water for maintaining all of the body’s systems and for repairing any damage.

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21/Jan/2023

Dr. Joseph Papotto, in his radio health chat, discusses the importance of health screenings and how the media has portrayed them in a negative light. He notes that some have criticized the medical community for trying to get people into the system for health screenings and that this has led to some people avoiding going to the doctor. He argues that the premise of these criticisms is based on a slanted interpretation of questionable data and that the healthcare system is made up of healthcare providers, big pharma, hospitals, and insurance companies who all want more treatment for financial gain.

Dr. Papotto then gives an overview of what a rational health screening protocol should look like through the adult years. He starts with adolescents and notes that the most common medical screening for this age group is the sports PE, which can reveal early BP problems, provide a gauge on growth and development, and open up a dialogue to discuss sexual and behavioral issues. For college-aged students, he recommends catching up on immunizations and discussing present problems or family medical history.

For young adults in their 20s and 30s, Dr. Papotto recommends at least one full PE with labs in the 20s and two or three in the 30s. He advises that this is a time when the USPSTF recommends beginning screening for BP and cholesterol, especially for those with a strong family history of hypertension and at-risk ethnic groups like African Americans. He also advises that women should begin Pap smears to screen for cervical cancer at 21 years old and men should be instructed on self-testicular exams.

For those in their 40s and above, Dr. Papotto advises that this is a strategic year for health screenings, where a reasonable approach can pick up early disorders before they cause irrevocable harm to the body. He advises that both men and women should get a full PE every year or two depending on their health status, and that a full blood panel, DRE, and mammography screening should be included. He also notes that he still recommends the old way of mammography screening at 40, despite a push to decrease its use and start at 50, which he believes is based more on cost savings than saving women’s lives.

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01/Dec/2022

Substance addiction is a harsh disease that doesn’t just affect one person. It can deeply impact entire families and cause major relationship strains, financial problems, and many other struggles. It can completely change a person’s life in a negative way.

In particular, Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) affects or has affected 16 million people around the world. In the United States, the number is a staggering three million and stems from the push of opioids in the 1990s. In 2020, 74.8% of overdose deaths involved opioids. In 2017, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) launched a public health emergency in response to America’s opioid epidemic.

Thankfully, there are innovative treatments for opioid addiction. Suboxone is a popular treatment option for those currently struggling with OUD. Dr. Joseph Papotto and the Life in a Blender team offers suboxone treatments for patients in and around Myrtle Beach and Conway, South Carolina.

What are the Signs of OUD?

In order to be diagnosed with OUD, which can only be professionally done by a physician, a person needs to show at least two of the following signs for at least 12 months:

Overusing their prescriptions, either in too large of a dose or for longer than intended.
Fruitless attempts at stopping their use of opioids.
Overwhelming need to use opioids with persistent urges.
Issues with school, work, or home responsibilities.
Time-consuming efforts to find opioids.
Continued use of opioids despite many problems directly related to their use.
Withdrawing from activities they loved due to preoccupation with opioids.
Using opioids in dangerous situations, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.
Continued use of opioids despite physical or mental problems worsening from their use.
Building a tolerance to high doses of opioids.
Severe withdrawal from discontinued use of opioids.

If you or a loved one is concerned about their usage of opioids and need help controlling their urges, suboxone is a possible treatment method.

What is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a medication used to treat OUD by managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It combines buprenorphine and naloxone and dissolves against the cheek or under the tongue.

Buprenorphine was created as another option to common pain medications, like—you guessed it—opioids. It was also recognized as a better and safer medication over methadone. It has been used as an addiction treatment since 2002, with a generic version approved for use in 2018.

Is Suboxone Addictive?

Evidence shows that suboxone and similar medications greatly reduce overdose risk, making it possible to pursue steady employment and a fulfilling life again. Its long-lasting effects allow for alternate-day dosing.

Like many medications, suboxone does carry the risk of addiction if misused, but only if used without proper guidance and supervision. Professionals familiar with addiction treatments who will be able to disperse the proper dosage and monitor the patient closely.

With Dr. Papotto, patients are closely monitored and tapered off of suboxone steadily for maximum results.

Who Qualifies for Suboxone as a Treatment Option?

Many patients who have OUD could be qualified to use suboxone and is typically covered by health insurance plans. Always check with your insurance provider about your plan to see what is covered. Do NOT attempt to find suboxone on your own and self-medicate.

Why Do Some People Not Want Treatment for OUD?

There are several reasons why people do not pursue treatment for OUD and other addictions, whether it is from financial worries or distance from a rehabilitation facility.

One of the biggest reasons? Shame.

The stigma of addiction and the shame it can bring too often prevents people from getting the support they need to beat it. They are afraid of judgment from others and afraid to disappoint their loved ones. There are also many people who believe that addiction is a choice and is from a lack of willpower, causing people to resist treatment or think they cannot be helped.

But help is possible, and Life in a Blender may be the right fit for your recovery.

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How Dr. Papotto’s Approach to Addiction Treatment Makes a Big Difference

Dr. Papotto is known for his mission of “Moving From Hurting to Healing”. With his approach, patients are first and foremost treated as humans. Every member of Dr. Papotto’s “A Team” is fully-trained and committed to both the success and happiness of their patients.

Every patient is our priority, including the things that patients wish to achieve during their treatment and goals afterwards. We’ll be your biggest fans the entire way and celebrate as you hit milestones you never dreamed possible.

Despite being known as a clown (yes, an actual trained clown), Dr. Papotto knows how to take his patients seriously and support them however he can. Laughter is great medicine, especially when paired with experienced and empathic care.

What if Treatment Doesn’t Work?

Suboxone is a popular and often effective treatment method. However, we also recognize that not every person is the same and has many different needs.

We’re always ready to find other evidence-based methods that can help patients during recovery, including holistic and alternative ways when possible.

We’re also here to maximize comfort and reduce the stigma and shame from addiction treatment. We work with patients to personalize care and find the absolute best solution for them.

How to Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Papotto

If you or a loved one are ready to take the first steps to recovery, we’re 1. Proud! and 2. Ready to take the first steps with you.

To contact us during working hours, call +(843)347-4900 to speak with Brenda Mohl.

For after hours or for your convenience, use our online contact form.

How Do I Get to Dr. Papotto’s Office?

Your appointment will take place at 132A Professional Park Drive, Conway, South Carolina, 29526.

It can be accessed from Singleton Ridge Road (State Road S-26-1121). The area has several medical offices, including ENTs and pediatricians. Our office is in the gray brick building. Plenty of parking is provided for your convenience.

Newer Posts

Life in a Blender, Mind Bender

Radio Health Chat #176

Title: Mind Excursion Slight Diversion: Weird, Wild, and Wonderful Facts

Here are the categories for blood pressure:

Terrific Tangential Thought – Lobster: From Trash to Delicacy

The Healing Power of Creativity: How Art Can Improve Your Health and Well-being

Dr. Joseph Papotto, a Physician serving the Myrtle Beach and Conway Areas

Dr. Joseph Papotto, of Life in a Blender Family Medicine Shares Facts

Dr. Joseph Papotto Discusses the Holiday Health Hazards

Dr. Joseph Papotto discusses the importance of health screenings

Ready for a Second Chance? Dr. Papotto’s Approach to Treating Addiction with Suboxone

What are the Signs of OUD?

What is Suboxone?

Is Suboxone Addictive?

Who Qualifies for Suboxone as a Treatment Option?

Why Do Some People Not Want Treatment for OUD?

One of the biggest reasons? Shame.

But help is possible, and Life in a Blender may be the right fit for your recovery.

How Dr. Papotto’s Approach to Addiction Treatment Makes a Big Difference

What if Treatment Doesn’t Work?

How to Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Papotto

How Do I Get to Dr. Papotto’s Office?

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