Central Maine Healthcare

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Stroke Care

There are two types of strokes: Ischemic strokes are caused by a clot, and they’re the most common, accounting for 87 percent of all strokes. Hemorrhagic strokes are exactly what the name implies—they’re caused by a hemorrhage (bleeding) into the brain after a blood vessel breaks, an event called an aneurysm. And it’s not an old person’s disorder; 34 percent of strokes happen to people under 65.

Probably the most important point to know about a stroke is that you have to act fast and call 911 immediately. Brain cells will die within minutes, and if you don’t get help right away, the neurological damage could be permanent. It’s a true life-and-death situation, and you need to recognize the symptoms:

  • Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side
  • A sudden, severe headache
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or inability to understand what you’re saying
  • Suddenly can’t see with one or both eyes
  • Sudden problem with walking, coordination, dizziness or balance.

When it comes to strokes, ethnicity matters: all minority groups are at higher risk of stroke than Caucasians. African Americans have twice the risk of a first-time stroke.  Age is a factor; older people are more likely to have a stroke, especially if they’re overweight, have high blood pressure or heart disease, or smoke.

Risks and Rewards: About 15 percent of strokes are preceded by a “mini-stroke,” or TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack), which means a blood clot temporarily blocked your blood vessels. In this case, clot-dissolving medications can reduce the damage, but only if the person is treated within three hours of the stroke. You can be sure the stroke treatment provided by Central Maine Healthcare is world-class. We recently were awarded the prestigious Joint Commission’s Primary Stroke Center Certification recognizing our top-quality stroke care. The Joint Commission mentioned our multidisciplinary approach to neurology, and for you that means your treatment covers every aspect of your recovery—speed, compassionate care and attention to every detail.

We also were granted the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s “Get With the Guidelines—GOLD PLUS Quality Achievement Award” for Central Maine Healthcare’s consistent excellence in stroke care, always based on the most current research.

There are 7 million stroke survivors in America today. Central Maine Healthcare treats more than 200 stroke patients each year, mostly through our Emergency Department where we can quickly evaluate and treat your condition. Once you’ve had a stroke or heart disease, your risk of stroking escalates.

Signs and Symptoms

Strokes can come on suddenly. The faster you seek help, the more brain cells you can save. Unfortunately, the damage to the brain caused by strokes can be permanent. That is why a fast reaction may help you or a stroke victim get the right treatment and have a better recovery and prognosis.

Know the Signs of a Stroke: If you notice any of the following symptoms, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention immediately:

  • Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  • Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States. It is also a major cause of long-term disability. A critical element of a stroke is that impacts the brain, and as the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association note: “Time lost is brain lost.” In other words, brain cells that die cannot be replaced.

What is a stroke? A stroke is caused when an artery that delivers blood and oxygen to the brain becomes blocked or ruptures. Brain cells deprived of oxygen die within minutes. As a result, the effects of a stroke — neurological impairment — may be permanent, since the brain cells cannot be replaced.

A stroke that is caused by a clot that obstructs blood and oxygen flow is called an ischemic stroke. This is the most common type of stroke, occurring in 87 percent of cases. The remaining 13 percent are known as hemorrhagic strokes, which are caused by a blood vessel breaking and bleeding into the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes are caused by two types of defective blood vessels: aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations. Aneurysms are vessels that have weakened and ballooned outward; arteriovenous malformations are a collection of abnormal blood vessels that are prone to breaking.

What is a TIA? A TIA is a transient ischemic attack and is also known as a “mini stroke.” It occurs if a blood clot temporarily blocks blood vessels to the brain. Because TIAs precede about 15 percent of all strokes, they should never be ignored. Clot dissolving treatments are available to reduce damage from a TIA but are effective only if received within three hours of the stroke.

Can I lower my risk of stroke? Research indicates that living a healthy lifestyle lowers the risk of having a stroke. This includes:

  • Controlling high blood pressure
  • Not smoking
  • Eating a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet
  • Staying physically active
  • Maintaining a healthy body weight
  • Managing diabetes
  • Moderate intake or abstinence from alcohol

To learn more about strokes:

Treatment

When you have a crisis as serious as a stroke, you want the finest care available. When the Joint Commission recently awarded Central Maine its esteemed Primary Stroke Center Certification, inspectors noted that ours was “among the leading programs in the nation.” That honor was affirmed by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association when they presented us with their Get With the Guidelines—GOLD PLUS Quality Achievement Award for our outstanding stroke treatment. For you, these awards mean you can depend on us for the finest stroke care in the region. If you suspect you or a family member are having a stroke, call 911 immediately.

Fast Action Saves Lives: When someone is having a stroke, seconds count! Our Emergency Department will quickly assess the situation, then they’ll almost certainly administer a clot-busting drug, either aspirin or an injection of TPA to restore the blood flow. Medications might be sent directly to the brain through a catheter in the groin.

If it’s appropriate, your surgeon will perform a minimally invasive clot removal to remove plaque from your arteries. Some emergency treatment also involves an angioplasty—inserting a small balloon into one of your blood vessels to widen it and improve the blood flow. Or doctors might insert a stent, a tiny mesh tube to keep the artery open.

For a hemorrhagic stroke, doctors might give you a drug to lower your blood pressure or reduce pressure on your brain. Another common procedure is “clipping,” clamping your aneurysm to stop the bleeding. “Coiling” is another option, where a surgeon inserts a tiny coil into the aneurysm to fill it and block the bleeding. Radiosurgery sometimes works as well, shooting beams of focused radiation into your brain to repair the blood vessels.

Getting a Diagnosis: Firming up a stroke diagnosis is a high-tech affair. Once the crisis is past, your doctors may want to look at your brain through a 64-slice scanner, a machine that provides faster, higher-res images than less cutting-edge scanners, and shows them a detailed, 3-D reconstruction. With this technology, doctors can identify specific parts of the brain that were affected by the stroke but might still respond to treatment.

You might also undergo a MEG (magnetoencephalography) lab test, a safe, non-invasive exam that measures your brain activity. Over the coming days or weeks, you might receive a 3-Tesla MRI scan, which will track the recovery of your brain tissue to see which parts started working normally again after your stroke.

Stroke Rehab: Once you get past the emergency stroke treatment and you’re stabilized, your neurologist will want your rehabilitation to begin as soon as possible. The faster you start your rehab, the more independence and quality of life you’re likely to regain. Every aspect of your rehab is customized to you, shaped by the collaborations between your medical care team. It’s likely to incorporate these features:

  • Occupational therapy, to help you rebuild skills for performing everyday activities. Depending on the severity of your stroke, you may need to re-learn writing, bathing, dressing and other simple tasks.
  • Physical therapy, to improve your stamina, minimize your pain, build coordination and balance, and regain control of your extremities.
  • Speech and language therapy to strengthen your ability to communicate and, if needed, to swallow.

Most rehab happens on an outpatient basis, available at centers throughout the Central Maine system. We also offer a menu of education options and support groups, both for the stroke patient and their family.

Rehabilitation: The aim of neurological rehab is to get you living independently again as soon as possible. That can be a lengthy process, especially if you have to re-learn basic skills like talking, writing and dressing yourself. At Central Maine Healthcare’s Rehab Center, we provide a long list of therapies designed to get you to the highest possible level of functioning and well-being.

If you’ve had a neurological disorder and think you’re a good candidate for rehabilitation, call: (207) 795-2927.

Types of Neurological Rehab

At Central Maine we can help you rehab from a variety of disorders, including brain injuries, movement disorders, spinal cord injuries, head and neck cancer, and stroke. While the specifics of your rehab program vary according to the disorder and your personal condition, most rehab takes you through your daily functions such as mobility, thinking abilities and communication. For neurological rehab, you may work with physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, exercise specialists, nutritionists and others. They’ll make up your rehab team, and they will stay in close communication with your doctor and each other, monitoring your progress as you continue. Their goal is your smooth transition to outpatient care and independent living.

Pain management is included in many neurological rehab plans, because a number of neurological disorders cause pain and you may not find total relief during your treatment. In this case, you may be referred to CMH’s pain management program, which includes education and education. If you’ve suffered back pain after an injury or spinal disorder, you’ll undergo a program to regain strength, mobility and independence in terms of caring for yourself. Aquatic therapy is especially effective in relieving back pain, with the added bonus of relaxing sore muscles, too.

Other neurological rehab strategies might be new to you, or they could be continuations of your treatment plan, such as relief from stress, anxiety or depression. You might undergo training to regain lost social and behavioral skills, and nutritional counseling to plan meals that will support your wellness.

Rehab After a Stroke

Your after-stroke rehab plan will feature a special set of skills and goals. Many of these are found in other neurological rehab programs, but almost all are likely to be part of your program after a stroke:

  • Motor-skill training: You probably will start a regimen of exercises to improve your muscle strength and coordination, including the muscles involved in swallowing.
  • Mobility training: You may need to learn how to use devices to help you move around, such as a walker, wheelchair or cane. Some patients wear an ankle brace during this phase; it supports their ankles while they get better at walking again.
  • Constraint-induced therapy: It might sound counter-intuitive, but in this therapy, your unaffected limb—say, your left arm if your right arm had been affected by the stroke—is put in restraints. The idea is to exercise your limbs that were affected, without getting “help” from the healthy limbs.
  • Range-of-motion therapy: These exercises show how far you can move your limbs in different directions, and work to increase their range.
  • Electrical stimulus: Small electrical charges are applied to weakened muscles, causing them to contract and respond when they’re stimulated.
  • Therapy for cognitive disorders: This type of rehab is highly personalized, and could include techniques for improving your memory, problem solving skills, social skills and safety awareness.
  • Speech therapy: Many stroke patients need to learn to speak clearly again.

Your rehab might happen at home, in a skilled nursing center, or in an outpatient facility such as a doctor’s office. The sooner you begin rehab after a stroke, the better your skills will be.

Neurology Conditions We Treat

Symptoms of neurological disorders aren’t easy to navigate – neck pain, dizziness, blurred vision, tremors, and dozens more. They often resemble the symptoms of too many other ailments and can be hard to self-diagnose.

Enter the board-certified neuroscience team at Central Maine Healthcare, who are trained to diagnose and treat the full range of diseases linked to the brain, spine, muscles and nerves. By coupling cutting-edge technology with their compassionate care, our neurology team will take you in hand, identify your specific problem and design your personal treatment plan.

Back and Neck Pain

If you’re experiencing ongoing or severe back and neck pain, the neck and spine specialists at Central Maine will diagnose your problem and work with neurologists and other medical staff to find the source of your discomfort and create a treatment plan.

Why Your Back or Neck Hurts: With back-pain, your movements may be limited. You may even have a stiff neck, which makes it difficult to move your head from side to side. Back pain like this could be caused by something as simple as carrying a heavy bag on your shoulder.
Or your back pain may be a result of a more serious disorder like:
Herniated disc: When a disc protrudes in an abnormal way, it creates a hernia.
Spinal degeneration: Like all parts of the body, your spine can deteriorate over time, and you can lose your ability to walk and stand erect easily.
Spinal stenosis: The spaces within your spine can grow narrow, causing pressure on your nerves. Stenosis often is caused by arthritis and usually happens in your lower back or neck.
Chronic back pain: Once you’ve injured your back, if it’s not treated or doesn’t heal correctly you may experience pain over time.

Diagnosing and Treating Back and Neck Pain: Identifying the source of your pain usually starts with an X-ray to rule out injuries to bones or muscles. Your doctor also may order at CT or MRI scan to pinpoint the problem. You may also undergo an EMG (which is done via fine needles inserted into the muscles) to see whether certain nerves are working properly. A blood test is often added to check for inflammation or an infection. The treatment, of course, depends on the nature of your condition and always is personalized. Many patients respond well to a simple regimen of physical therapy, rest, exercise and medications. However, your individual program might include strength training and aquatic therapy or wearing a foam collar. From there, solutions get more sophisticated:
Baclofen Pump: With this advanced procedure, a small machine is implanted in your chest and delivers pain medication directly to your spinal cord.
Spinal Cord Stimulation Therapy: The stimulation happens in your brain. An electric current blocks your brain’s ability to sense pain in your spinal cord.
Surgery: More serious spine and neck conditions call for surgery, ranging from spinal fusions to vertebrae removal. Many procedures are computer-assisted or performed by robots, giving the surgeon a better view than they’d have in traditional operations, with more accurate results.
Regardless of why you’re feeling back or neck pain, CMH specialists can help get your relief.

Brain and Spinal Tumors

At Central Maine Healthcare, we focus on aggressively treating your tumor as soon as possible. Your treatment plan might include radiation, chemotherapy or surgery, and we will make sure you have the support to follow your personalized treatment.

Dementia

Dementia isn’t just one disease, it’s a group of symptoms that affect your memory, thinking and social abilities. Fortunately, at Central Maine Healthcare, you have some of the country’s best resources at your disposal, working quickly to diagnose dementia.

What Does Dementia Look Like? Dementia is tricky to diagnose because its symptoms can signal a long list of unrelated disorders. Some forms of dementia are progressive, like Alzheimer’s disease or Lewy Body dementia. But some types of dementia can be reversed. If it’s caused by an endocrine problem, such as a low-functioning thyroid or by dehydration or certain infections, the dementia stops when those conditions are addressed.

For most dementia, however, there is no cure — but modern treatments can treat the symptoms and slow the disease’s progression. Symptoms generally fall into two categories: cognitive and psychological.

Cognitive symptoms include:

  • Memory loss
  • Difficulty communicating
  • Planning or organizing
  • Confusion

Psychological symptoms include:

  • Personality changes
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Paranoia
  • Inappropriate behavior

How We Diagnose Your Dementia: Finding the reason for your dementia is a process. It involves a variety of cognitive and psychological tests. Your neurologist will work to reach an accurate diagnosis and design a treatment plan. In order to pinpoint your type of dementia, doctors will first look at your risk factors for dementia: your thorough health history, including your age and family illnesses. Then, they’ll look for signs of depression, diabetes, Down syndrome, sleep apnea, smoking or heavy alcohol use — all of which could influence dementia.

Our doctors will also test your memory, your language skills, your visual perception, and your ability to focus, reason and solve problems. They’re also likely to run CT and MRI scans to check for signs of stroke, tumors or bleeding in your brain. A PET scan can document your brain activity and tell doctors if the protein associated with Alzheimer’s (called amyloid) is present.

What We’ll Do for Your Dementia: Once we know exactly why you’re exhibiting symptoms, our physicians work on managing them. Almost always, they will prescribe medications to ease your symptoms. You’ll likely take a med such as Aricept — a cholinesterase inhibitor — that will boost your levels of the brain chemical that helps restore your memory and judgement skills. These medicines are common in treating Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Lewy Body.

Other medicines regulate additional brain chemicals that affect your depression, ability to learn, and sleep. Beyond medications, we provide help that can improve your everyday life and independence:

Occupational therapy: Our therapists will teach you coping strategies, which can help you perform simple tasks such as laundry and making coffee. Their aim is to prevent falls and other accidents and prepare you for progression of the illness.

Modify your environment: Central Maine will do everything possible to make your home safer.  We can help you reduce clutter and noise, hide items such as knives and car keys, and make sure you are visited regularly.

Modify your tasks: We’ll look at everything you do during the day and find ways to make those tasks easier. You’ll have structure and routine in your day, which will help you learn to focus on small successes.

Epilepsy

People with epilepsy can rarely predict when they’re about to have a seizure. The good news is that with Central Maine Healthcare’s help seizures can be controlled. Our highly trained experts successfully treat people with epilepsy every day. Epilepsy can develop at any age. For your own safety, if you or someone in your family has seizures, get help right away.

What Causes Seizures? We know that seizures are triggered by sudden changes in your brain’s electrical activity, but what causes those electrical surges? Seizures often start after a head injury. They might also begin after a stroke or when a tumor develops. During a seizure, nerve cells either over-excite other cells, or stop them from sending the right messages to the rest of the body. Epilepsy is diagnosed when these seizures materialize repeatedly.

When you see a Central Maine neurologist about your seizures, you’ll undergo an EEG (electroencephalogram), which can “see” the electrical activity in your brain and, possibly, predict if you’ll keep having seizures. The EEG might find seizure-causing activity in just one part of your brain, or across the entire organ. We might use a process called “cortical mapping” to measure functions and activity in precise spots.

Our Team Approach to Treating Seizures: Because there are so many approaches to seizure control, the Neurology team at Central Maine will form a multidisciplinary team to treat your epilepsy. We’ll take care of your disorder from every possible angle, and professionals guiding your recovery might include nutritionists, neurologists, surgeons and other specialists.

Medications: This is the most widely used treatment. Anti-seizure drugs succeed in controlling seizures for seven out of 10 patients.

Diet: Research has found that a low carb, “keto” diet can control seizures in some people, so your doctor or nutritionist probably will recommend you cut your carbohydrates and focus on eating whole foods, including healthy fats.

Neuromodulation: Your neurologist might also prescribe a device that sends a small electric current to your nervous system. This electric stimulation, called “neuromodulation,” can prompt your brain to release chemicals that change the way your cells act.

Movement Disorders

About a million people in the U.S. live with Parkinson’s disease, and millions more suffer from other movement disorders. They affect every aspect of your life — your job, socializing, mobility, even relaxing with your family. But treatment for movement disorders has come a long way in the last decade, and Central Maine Healthcare is on the leading-edge of movement disorder treatment.

What Are Movement Disorders? If you don’t have a movement disorder, you’ve seen it in others — their heads and limbs jerk or twist in an unnatural way, it may be difficult to understand their speech, and they may not be able to walk.

Parkinson’s disease is a slowly progressing disorder of the nervous system. People with Parkinson’s may not be diagnosed until years after their first symptoms appear. In addition to tremors, people with Parkinson’s also develop problems with their balance, limbs stiffening and slower movements.

Dystonia isn’t as well-known as Parkinson’s, but more than 300,000 people in the U.S. have been diagnosed to date. The muscle contractions with dystonia are different from other movement disorders, in that they cause twisting, repetitive movements. Dystonia can affect the whole body or just one limb.

Other movement disorders include:

  • Cervical dystonia, causing twisting contractions of the neck muscles
  • Ataxia, when the parts of the brain that control body movements don’t function correctly
  • Chorea, marked by brief, irregular movements in the face, mouth, trunk and limbs
  • Huntington’s disease, bringing uncontrolled movements, impaired thinking ability and psychiatric disorders
  • Restless leg syndrome, when you have an urge to move your legs at night
  • Tremors, rhythmic shaking of your hands, head and other body parts
  • Wilson’s disease, a rare illness caused by copper build-up in your body, causing neurological problems

Treating Movement Disorders: Your movement disorder may be more easily controlled than you think. Your doctor’s first prescription is likely to be L-Dopa, an amino acid closely related to the brain chemical dopamine and the gold standard for treating Parkinson’s and dystonia, both of which respond to dopamine. Your neurologist at Central Maine also might inject you with Botox®. Botox® temporarily paralyzes muscle activity, making it useful in controlling contractions, especially neck spasms.

Increasingly, surgeons are turning to Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), a surgery in which electrodes are implanted in the brain. The electrodes produce electrical charges that regulate your brain’s abnormal impulses, controlled by a pacemaker-like device implanted in your chest. A tiny wire connects the “pacemaker” to the electrodes in your brain. DBS is a revolutionary new procedure whose use will go far beyond treating movement disorders; researchers are studying the possibilities of DBS for stroke recovery and dementia, among other conditions.

Central Maine Healthcare can help you minimize and control your tremors and contractions, so you can return to work and regular daily life.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease. That means your immune system, which is supposed to protect your from “foreign” invaders (bacteria, viruses, even allergens) instead turns traitor and breaks down your immunity. Those invaders get into your body, and the protective covering that surrounds your nerve cells becomes inflamed, destroying the cells’ ability to work correctly. That’s when you start seeing symptoms of MS.

Central Maine’s neurologists bring on the latest research and techniques to treating your symptoms. When your MS is treated early, you can expect a normal life expectancy, symptom-free — but you must take action.

Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis: MS is one of the most difficult illnesses to diagnose because its symptoms are almost universal. Anyone can get MS, though women are more likely, and while the typical age at the onset is 20 to 40 years old, it can begin at any age. Diagnosis also is tricky because MS symptoms appear in degrees, from mild (numb limbs, for example) to severe cases with paralysis and blindness. Other symptoms include:

  • Blurred or double vision
  • Blindness in one eye
  • Red/green color distortion
  • Muscle weakness in limbs, causing balance and coordination problems
  • Prickling, numbing feelings in arms and legs
  • Pain in limbs
  • Trouble speaking
  • Tremors
  • Dizziness
  • Hearing loss
  • Depression
  • Difficulty concentrating, and problems with memory and judgement

Some symptoms happen briefly and pass, while others persist. People with MS can be symptom free and then suffer a relapse or flare-up, or the disease can be a steady progression. There’s just no such thing as a “normal” case of MS.

There also is no standard test for MS. Your neurologist and other caregivers will test you based on your current symptoms, and those they think you’re likely to develop. They may give you a neurological exam, blood analysis, brain and spine imaging, lumbar puncture test (known as a “spinal tap”). They also may prescribe an MRI scan, because 90 percent of people with MS show changes in their brain or spinal cord, and other tests that measure magnetic fields of your cells and the electrical activity in your muscles.

Treating You for a Speedy Recovery: There’s no cure for MS, but there is recovery from flare-ups, and that’s our goal when we treat MS at Central Maine. We aim to manage your symptoms, and your treatment will reflect your experience. For instance, we might prescribe a corticosteroid medication such as prednisone to reduce the inflammation in your nerves. We often turn to a host of meds that might slow the worsening of the disease, or help block the immune system’s attack on myelin, that protective covering around your nerves.

If your MS is newly diagnosed or especially severe, we might recommend a plasma exchange. This innovative procedure involves removing your plasma, mixing it with a protein solution, then putting it back into your body. Depending on your symptoms, we might also prescribe meds to combat your fatigue, resolve depression or help control your bowel or bladder. We also prescribe Interferon, a drug that can reduce the severity and frequency of your relapses.

A healthy lifestyle is important, too, in keeping MS symptoms under control. You’ll work with a physical therapist on stretching and strengthening exercises, and you’ll learn to use devices that make daily tasks easier. If you’re feeling stiff or experiencing spasms, we’ll teach you muscle relaxation exercises.

For such a wide range of symptoms, our neurologists will collaborate with as many colleagues as necessary to tame them and get you living a normal, productive life. For most MS patients, there’s no reason not to work full-time and resume all the activities they enjoy.

Stroke

There are 7 million stroke survivors in America today. Central Maine Healthcare treats more than 200 stroke patients each year, mostly through our Emergency Department where we can quickly evaluate and treat your condition. Once you’ve had a stroke or heart disease, your risk of stroking escalates.

If you or a family member are at risk for a stroke, we can help you make sure there are no strokes in your future.

Chest Pain Center

Chest pain should never be ignored. Remember: when in doubt, get checked out.

The Chest Pain Center at the Emergency Department at Central Maine Medical Center provides a faster, higher level of care to patients with heart attack symptoms. Our physicians are trained to deliver specialized care during the early stages of a cardiac event — when treatment is critical to saving lives and preserving heart muscle. We’re also able to monitor patients when it is not certain that they are having a heart attack, ensuring that they’re not sent home too quickly or needlessly admitted to the hospital.

Our proven process includes:

Step 1: Intake

When a patient enters the Chest Pain Center, our emergency physicians treat them as potential cardiac patients until a proper diagnosis is made.

Step 2: Assessment

The patient is set up on a cardiac monitor, with oxygen administered as a precaution. Intravenous lines may be started so life-saving drugs can be administered quickly if needed.

Step 3: Testing

Diagnostic testing helps our specialists reduce the time needed to determine the cause of the patient’s chest pain.

Step 4: Making a Treatment Plan

Once the patient’s condition is stable, the emergency physician may consult with one or more of our board-certified cardiologists for possible follow-up.

For more information, call the Chest Pain Center at (207) 795-2200.

Weight Loss Surgery FAQ

If you’re thinking about bariatric surgery, you may be wondering how the whole process works. The Central Maine Healthcare Bariatric Surgery Program is here to provide the information you need, so you know just what to expect at every step. Start with this helpful FAQ.

View our informational video, which is presented by a board-certified surgeon at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, that explores different types of weight loss surgery.

Who is a candidate for weight loss surgery?

For those considering surgery, you need to have a BMI (body mass index) between 35-40 with certain medical conditions associated with obesity, or a BMI greater than 40 with no medical problems.

In addition to the BMI requirement, you must realize that bariatric surgery is not the best weight loss option for all people and that this will be discussed at your consultation with a surgeon. You must remember that bariatric surgery is a TOOL and not cure, for weight loss. Your hard work, good eating habits, and good exercise and lifestyle habits are what will maintain weight loss and keep you healthy.

What are the benefits of bariatric surgery?

There are so many benefits to bariatric surgery! These are both physical and emotional. Bariatric surgery can improve your health and help you to get rid of medical problems and medications you had before surgery. You may have improvement in your energy and ability to do things in your day. You may suffer from less pain in your muscles and joints. Overall, you may see your quality of life has improved dramatically.

What are the risks of bariatric surgery?

All surgeries carry risk with them. Bariatric surgery overall is very safe, with a risk of death around 0.1%. In fact, weight loss surgery decreases the risk of dying from obesity and medical problems related to obesity. Some complications that can occur during or after surgery include things such as bleeding, leak, infections, blood clots, hernias and strictures. Your provider will review specific risks with you during your consultation.

Is weight loss surgery the ‘easy way out’? Should I just work at dieting and exercise?

No. Bariatric surgery is a big commitment and requires you to participate in a program that is several months and requires you to make changes to your diet and exercise habits. Most people who consider bariatric surgery have been struggling with their weight for years, and have tried many diet and exercise programs with variable success.

Most people who suffer from obesity find it hard to lose the weight they want and keep it off with diet and exercise alone. This is because obesity is a chronic disease that creates a vicious cycle leading to greater obesity. Weight gain can be related to many things, such as:

  • Food addiction and poor eating habits
  • Poor sleep habits
  • Eating a diet high in sugar, fats, processed meats and grains
  • Eating a diet low in fat fighting foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins
  • Mental health issues and stress
  • Medications
  • Genetics

Weight gain leads to many changes in the body which makes it harder to lose weight. Hormonal changes in the body alter functions that control appetite, feelings of hunger and fullness. Inflammation is heightened in the body’s cells, leading to fatigue and lack of energy. Studies have shown that diet and exercise alone lead to little long-term success. Weight loss surgery helps with long term weight loss because it creates biological changes in the body that help reduce food intake, change the hormonal signals to function properly, and reduce inflammation. It also restricts stomach size (you feel fuller with less) and with certain procedures also alters absorption.

Will my insurance pay for bariatric surgery?

Weight loss surgery is covered by a lot of insurances as long as certain criteria are met. Insurance coverage for program components will depend on your individual health plan. Some insurances will not cover all portions of a program and may require self pay.

We verify benefits with your insurance before your consultation, but it is always a good idea to contact your insurance provider to see if you are covered.

What are the differences between traditional and minimally invasive approaches for surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery (robotic or laparoscopic surgery) is surgery done through multiple small incisions rather than a large incision. Minimally invasive surgery usually means less pain after surgery, smaller scars, and quicker recovery.

How much weight can I expect to lose?

This number is dependent on the type of procedure you have as well as your success in making positive changes to your life regarding your diet and exercise habits. You will go through this more in depth during your consultation.

Will I be on a diet before surgery?

Yes, for 2-3 weeks before surgery you will be on a special diet. This diet is aimed at shrinking the liver and reducing fat inside the abdomen in order to make surgery safer. For certain individuals, it may be determined that they will need to lose a certain amount of weight before being able to have bariatric surgery. Furthermore, some insurance companies will require weight loss before approval.

All patients in the program are participating in medically supervised weight loss through dietician appointments. These visits are aimed more at teaching you about food, healthy habits and tools for long term success after surgery.

Will I be on a diet after surgery?

You will be on a graduated ‘diet’ from liquids to solids over six weeks. Afterwards it will be very important for you to choose healthy items for best results. In general, most patients describe a decrease in their appetite after surgery, and being satisfied with a smaller amount of food.

Are there certain medications I should avoid after surgery?

After surgery you may not take any medication in the NSAID category (NonSteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) as these may cause complications. You may have to hold certain medications before and after surgery, which you will discuss in your consultation. 

Will I have to take vitamins?

Yes. You will need to take multivitamins for life after bariatric surgery. You may also need higher doses of certain vitamins and minerals such as Iron, Calcium and Vitamin D. You will also need to have your vitamin levels checked every year.

Does weight loss surgery cause serious health problems from vitamin deficiency?

In general, as long as you take your vitamins, it is rare to have serious health problems from vitamin deficiency, but weight loss surgery can cause reduced vitamin levels because of changes in food habits and altered absorption. Vitamin deficiency can lead to fatigue, anemia, bone and muscle loss, impaired vision at night, altered senses, changes to mental function and altered immunity.

A healthy diet and the use of supplements will help prevent vitamin deficiency. The ones at biggest risk are those who don’t have a healthy diet, don’t take vitamins and don’t follow-up with their providers to get lab work. Make sure you stay in touch with your bariatric team every year or do your labs with your family provider!

Is exercise an important factor after bariatric surgery?

Yes absolutely! We encourage you to start being active as soon as possible. Remember, exercise is different for everyone and there is not a ‘one size fits all’ exercise plan. What’s most important is that you are participating in exercise that increases your heart rate and helps you build muscle. Exercise is a very important component of your successful weight loss journey, and is important to maintain your overall health as you age! If you are at a loss of what that looks like for you, we have resources to help.

How soon after surgery can I drive?

For your own safety, you shouldn’t drive until you have stopped taking narcotic medications and can move quickly and alertly to stop your car, especially in an emergency.

How long do I have to be off work?

This depends on what you do for work. You may take as little as 1-2 weeks off of work or you may require 4-6 weeks depending on your job.

Will I lose hair after weight loss surgery?

You may. Some patients do experience some hair loss or thinning in the first six months after surgery. This is usually due to hormonal changes during rapid weight loss. Hair loss is usually temporary. While we don’t fully understand hair loss, we do know that good nutrition and adequate protein intake, as well as taking vitamins, will help.

Will I have excess skin after my surgery?

You may have excess skin after surgery but this is dependent on many individual factors such as how much weight you have to lose, how quickly you lose it, your age and your exercise habits. Some patients choose to have surgery to remove skin after weight stabilization, either for cosmetic purposes or because of recurrent skin infections.

Can I become pregnant after weight loss surgery?

Yes, you can. In fact, most women are much more fertile after surgery and weight loss. In general, it is recommended that you wait at least one year after surgery to become pregnant and very strongly recommended that you use a form of birth control at all times. Your cycle may be very irregular and you may become pregnant when you least expect it.

What is dumping syndrome?

‘Dumping Syndrome’ is a side effect that can happen after gastric bypass when a patient eats something high in sugar or carbohydrates. Because of the altered way in which the body handles these things after gastric bypass, one may have feelings such as abdominal cramps, racing heart, cold sweats, light-headedness and diarrhea. This may last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Treatment for dumping syndrome revolves around diet modification.ber is 207-795-2559.

Who is a Candidate for Bariatric and Metabolic Weight Loss Surgery?

If you’re considering bariatric surgery at Central Maine Medical Center, you must meet specific criteria before you can be considered for a consult. This criteria is based on universal standards established by the National Institutes of Health and includes:

  1. Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 40 or BMI greater than 35 with medical complications related to obesity, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or sleep apnea. Use the BMI calculator from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to check your BMI. Many other medical complications qualify.
  2. A documented history of weight management and weight loss attempts with supervised diets and exercise programs.
  3. No indication of active alcoholism, active drug addiction or a major psychiatric disorder.
  4. Our surgeons will evaluate other criteria, such as your age and general health, to determine if bariatric surgery is appropriate for you.

You will be evaluated by our surgeons to determine if bariatric surgery is right for you. You will also be evaluated by our dietitians and behavioral health specialist to make sure you are ready. Further assessment may be needed by other medical specialists.

After the completion of your requirements, our team will meet to decide whether you are an appropriate candidate for surgery. This decision is based upon your physical and emotional state, as well as eating habits, food preferences, activity levels and other health problems.

In some cases, the type of surgery you desire will not offer optimal outcomes, and a different type of bariatric surgery or an alternative treatment may be recommended.

You also may be required to meet certain criteria — such as losing weight, attending counseling or undergoing physical therapy — before your surgery is scheduled. This helps to ensure that you will have the best possible chance of recovering from the surgery and succeeding at weight loss.

Once you successfully complete the screening process and obtain insurance approval, your surgery will be scheduled and pre-operative preparation will begin.

Referrals

If you have a Central Maine Healthcare provider, please have provider enter the referral into Cerner. If not, please have your provider mail or fax the following information:

  • Referral for the evaluation and treatment of morbid obesity
  • Referral authorization number from the insurance company, referral must be for 1 year
  • Demographic Information on the patient (DOB, address, phone number, insurance info)
  • Most recent history and physical including blood work and medications
  • All related diagnoses and co-morbidities
  • Weight history of the past 3 years
  • Previous attempts/duration of unsuccessful weight loss

Referral Process

  • Your primary care provider sends us a completed referral form with above documentation.
  • Our staff will review your referral and contact your insurance to verify your bariatric criteria.
  • Once bariatric criteria has been confirmed, you will then be contacted to schedule an appointment.
  • Before your appointment, you will be mailed a packet of information including appointment information and forms that need to be completed prior to your visit.
  • Most insurance plans cover these visits. However, coverage can vary and we recommend that you check your health insurance benefits.

Central Maine Bariatric Surgery Fax Number is 207-795-2559.

What to Expect with Surgery

From your first consultation through admission and recovery, Central Maine Healthcare is committed to making your surgical experience as smooth as possible. Understanding what to expect can ease any concerns and help you prep for success.

The type of surgery you have will determine your length of stay in the hospital. Inpatient procedures usually require an overnight stay and possibly more, so our team can monitor your recovery. If you’re scheduled for outpatient surgery, you’ll likely go home the same day with instructions for self-care.

Before Surgery

Pre-Admission Testing (P.A.T.)

Prior to your scheduled surgery, you will have an appointment with a member of our P.A.T. team, which can be held in our office or via a phone interview. This appointment can take up to two hours, and ensures we provide the safest and highest level of care.

A registered nurse will review your health history, medications and allergies, and complete an anesthesia screening. We’ll also coordinate any additional testing you may need for your surgery, such as an EKG (electrocardiogram), X-ray and/or lab work.

Please bring the following information with you to your appointment or have it available during your phone interview:

  • Current list of medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, including dosage information
  • List of any allergies
  • List of any previous surgeries
  • Names and phone numbers of your primary care provider and any specialists you are seeing
  • Copy of Health Care Proxy or Living Will, if applicable

At this time, your nurse will also review pre-surgery instructions, including any eating restrictions, medication usage and more, and provide written instructions for further review following the appointment. We also encourage you to ask any and all questions.

One to two days before your procedure, your pre-admission nurse or another member of your care team will call you to confirm your surgery and arrival time, and answer any last-minute questions you might have.

Also, be sure to arrange for an adult to bring you to the hospital and take you home.

Insurance & Financial Assistance

Central Maine Healthcare accepts most major insurances. We will submit your bill to your provider or responsible party you designate when you register for surgery. While our billing teamwill make every effort to validate your coverage prior to your visit, individual insurance plans vary, so please review your plan. We’re happy assist you if you need help filling out your insurance forms.

As part of our mission, we provide access to medically necessary health care to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. Learn more about our financial assistance program.

Day of Surgery

What to bring

  • Driver’s license or state identification card
  • Health insurance card(s), including supplemental insurance
  • Referral and pre-certification forms
  • Deductible and/or co-payment, if applicable
  • Recent test results, X-ray films or other relevant forms that your primary care provider surgeon has asked you to bring
  • Cases for eyeglasses, contact lenses, dentures and/or hearing aids
  • List of all of your medications, including vitamins and herbal supplements, their frequency and their doses—or the medications themselves in their original containers
  • Your documents for power of attorney, living will and advanced care planning, if you have them

Please do not bring valuables (large amounts of cash, laptop computers, etc.) or wear jewelry.

Arriving at the hospital

Please arrive with your adult companion about one and a half to two hours before your scheduled surgery to have time to register and prepare.

Surgery prep

After your admission, you’ll meet your surgery team, including your surgeon, nurses and anesthesiologists. Together, they’ll help prepare you for your procedure by:

  • Reviewing your medical history and current medical condition
  • Taking vital signs and providing gown and ID bracelet
  • Reviewing any allergies or past experiences with anesthesia.
  • Reviewing the surgery you have planned
  • Addressing any questions or concerns, and ensuring you feel comfortable and prepared

During your surgery

Along with your surgeon, you will have a dedicated team with you in the OR to monitor all aspects of your health and comfort. This team may include a surgical technician, registered nurse and anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist.

Waiting area for family and friends

Your loved ones have several places to stay during your surgery, including comfortable waiting rooms, on-site cafeterias, spiritual areas and more.

After Surgery

PACU (post-anesthesia care unit)

Each of our surgical centers is equipped with a designated unit for patients emerging from anesthesia. Patients are carefully assessed and monitored as they regain consciousness. The average stay for each patient is about 60 minutes.

If your procedure requires an overnight stay or recovery in the hospital, you will be transferred to a general hospital room for continued care and recovery before discharge. Your comfort is a top priority: most of our hospital rooms are private, with individual bathrooms and flexible visiting hours. Cable TV, phone and free Wi-Fi are available to keep patients connected. Your nursing team will monitor your pain level and help promote healing throughout your stay.

About 60 percent of our patients have same-day surgery, and are discharged a few hours after surgery. In that case, you’ll move from the PACU and back to our dedicated same-day surgery unit. Your nurse will provide detailed instructions on your recovery process, and your doctor will give you any needed medicine for pain control and make sure you are stable enough to go home.

Medical Surgical Nurses

For surgical patients requiring more extensive follow-up care, our hospitals include a dedicated medical-surgical nursing unit with a specially trained team members. These nurses are not only skilled in clinical care, but play an important role as educators—teaching patients how to care for themselves at home and recognize potential problems.

Discharge Instructions

Once you’ve been cleared to go home, your nurse will review your discharge instructions with you and your family member and will give you a packet with:

  • Written instructions
  • Follow-up information
  • Prescriptions and other medications
  • Emergency contacts

Please read this information carefully before you leave the hospital to make sure that you understand everything. Be sure to ask your surgeon or any team member if any information is unclear.

When you are ready to leave, we will escort and discharge you into the care of your adult companion. Do not drive a car, operate machinery or do anything that requires your full concentration for at least 24 hours, unless otherwise instructed by your surgeon.

Rehabilitation & Ongoing Care

If you need physical or occupational therapy following your procedure, we offer personalized rehabilitation programs on both an inpatient and outpatient basis. We’ll work closely with you to create and achieve your goals and communicate regularly with your surgeon to ensure you’re progressing well.

Need a little longer to recover? Both Bridgton Hospital and Rumford Hospital offer swing bed programs for patients who need extra care following joint replacement or general surgery. Our dedicated team is here to help you regain strength, mobility and independence, so you can safely return home.

Types of Surgery We Offer

Whether your procedure is routine or complex, rest assured you’re in good hands at Central Maine Healthcare.

Many of our board-certified surgeons practice in highly specialized areas, with advanced training in everything from tumor removal to trauma, hernia repair to heart care. We perform many of these procedures using the latest minimally invasive techniques, often allowing you to go home the same day and enjoy an easier, faster recovery.

It’s all part of our commitment to bring leading surgical care right to the central and western Maine surrounding communities we serve. So you can focus less on traveling, and more on healing.

Full Range of Surgical Services

Just some of our specialties include:

General surgery

Our surgeons treat all types of health problems affecting the esophagus, stomach, colon, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, appendix and bile ducts. We take a minimally invasive approach whenever possible, including appendectomies and gallbladder removal, as well as complex hernia repair. These laparoscopic procedures require just a few small incisions, which often means significantly less pain and quicker return to your life.

Cancer surgery

For many types of cancer, surgery is often the best first treatment, especially for early stage cancers or those that are contained to one area. Our board-certified surgeons are skilled in removing even the most complex tumors, while helping minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue. We also work closely with specialists in radiation and medical oncology to ensure the best possible care.

Gynecologic surgery

Our women’s health experts perform a wide range of gynecologic procedures to address concerns at any age and stage of life. That includes treatment for endometriosis, removing fibroids and ovarian cysts, and minimally invasive techniques for incontinence and hysterectomy. Many of these procedures can be done on an outpatient basis, allowing you to leave the hospital the same day and recover comfortably at home.

Heart and vascular surgery

At the nationally recognized Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute (CMHVI), our cardiovascular surgeons perform both traditional open heart surgery as well as some of the most advanced, minimally invasive options available. Specialties include implantable devices and ablation to help restore irregular heart rhythms; angioplasty and other interventional procedures in our state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization lab; heart valve repair and replacement, including the revolutionary TAVR procedure for severe aortic stenosis; and pediatric procedures to address congenital heart concerns and other conditions affecting young hearts.

Orthopedic surgery

The board-certified surgeons at Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM) and Central Maine Healthcare Orthopedics (CMHO) are here to help get your body, and life, back in motion. We’ve earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for providing the highest standards of care in hip, knee and shoulder replacement, as well as hip fracture care. We also specialize in minimally invasive spine surgery and the latest arthroscopic techniques to help you return faster to what you love.

Plastic and reconstructive surgery

Central Maine Healthcare offers a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures to help you look and feel your best. Elective cosmetic options include face lifts, breast augmentation, tummy tucks, liposuction and more from our board-certified plastic surgeons. Our reconstructive procedures can help restore appearance and self-confidence after an injury or illness, including breast reconstruction following mastectomy.

Trauma surgery

As a Level III Trauma Center, we provide 24-hour surgical coverage for all types of serious and life-threatening injuries. We also orthopedic surgeons and other critical care specialists always on-call.

Weight loss (bariatric) surgery

Transform your health and life with help from our board-certified bariatric surgeons. We perform a variety of safe and proven weight loss procedures, including gastric bypass, gastric sleeve and adjustable gastric banding (LAP-BAND). Using the latest laparoscopic options, we’ll help give you the best possible start on your journey, and provide the ongoing education and support you need to achieve your goals.

Other common surgeries we offer include:

  • Breast surgery
  • Colon surgery
  • Ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgery
  • Esophageal surgery
  • Gastrointestinal surgery
  • Liver and biliary tract surgery
  • Lung surgery
  • Pediatric surgery
  • Podiatry procedures
  • Urologic surgery

da Vinci Robotic Surgery

Central Maine Healthcare is dedicated to providing advanced treatments locally. Our robotic-assisted surgical procedures — performed with the da Vinci Surgical System — allow patients to access leading-edge technology that not only minimizes the risk of post-surgical complications but also allows for faster recovery.

Why Do You Need da Vinci Robotic Surgery?

CMH surgeons use da Vinci to perform general and bariatric (weight loss) surgeries and treat a range of complex gastrointestinal conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer.

Contrary to its name, da Vinci robotic surgery is not performed by a robot. Instead, this complex surgical system allows your surgeon to use specialized, tiny instruments and a 3D view of the surgical area to perform a minimally invasive surgery through a smaller incision than would be required with traditional open surgery.

da Vinci robotic surgery benefits patients in a variety of ways. Many patients experience reduced pain, less blood loss, a shorter hospital stay and a faster overall recovery when they have procedures with da Vinci compared with traditional open surgery.

But only you and your provider can determine whether this type of procedure is right for you based on your individual medical history and the procedure that’s required.

Getting Ready for da Vinci Robotic Surgery

You prepare for da Vinci robotic surgery the same way you prepare for any standard surgical procedure. Your surgeon will provide you with in-depth pre-surgical instructions to help guide your care before your procedure.

These instructions will provide specifics about any required pre-surgical testing, guidance about eating and drinking prior to the procedure, and information about any medications you need to use or discontinue before surgery. It’s important to carefully follow these instructions to ensure your safety and well-being and to promote positive surgical outcomes.

What to Expect During da Vinci Robotic Surgery

While your experience will vary somewhat depending on the exact procedure you’re undergoing, every da Vinci robotic surgery includes some of the same basics.

During the surgical procedure, your surgeon will sit at a special console. From there, they are able to use a monitor to examine the 360-degree view of the surgical area and manipulate the controls required to perform the surgery.

When the procedure begins, your surgeon will make tiny incisions. A miniature 3D camera and similarly tiny surgical instruments are then placed in the body through those incisions.

Once this is done, your surgeon has complete control from the console. Using hand and foot controls, they move the surgical instruments. They move in real-time with your provider’s motions, which are guided by the high-definition view of the surgical area. This is of great benefit to patients, since the real-time motion of your surgeon’s hands give the surgeon even more dexterity and control over the procedure than they would have in a standard surgery.

Recovering From da Vinci Robotic Surgery

The length and intensity of your recovery after surgery will depend on the type of procedure that was performed. Patients undergoing da Vinci robotic surgery often require shorter hospital stays and can return to normal activities more quickly, but your individual circumstance may vary.

Why Choose Us: Women’s Health

As part of our commitment to excellence, we always use feedback and data to improve our care practices. You can see our range of women’s health offerings below and thoughts about why you should choose us.

Quality Gynecological Care

Our providers and nurses are highly-skilled in women’s health and dedicated to providing the best care for your gynecological needs. We offer the newest advancements in health screenings, including pap smears, breast exams, and mammograms, with additional advanced screening techniques as needed. We also help our patients manage menopause symptoms and offer wellness and fitness support to keep you healthy.

Exceptional Birth Centers

Our hospitals offer birth centers staffed with providers who care about your and your baby’s well-being. Our teams include doctors, midwives, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses who all work together to make sure you’re healthy, comfortable, and supported through your birthing journey. Two of our hospitals have achieved the Baby Friendly Hospital designation and all our hospitals are proud to offer accessible lactation support. The NICU at our Lewiston hospital provides parents with peace of mind and the knowledge that we are here to keep you safe and cared for.

Breast Health Screening and Cancer Treatment

Our facilities are all equipped with quality diagnostic equipment to ensure that you are screened regularly for breast cancer and other breast issues. Our award-winning Breast Care Center at Central Maine Medical Center is set up for advanced diagnostics and the latest in treatment techniques. We also pride ourselves on our supportive team members who will be there for you throughout your breast health journey.

Education, Events, Support

Our hospitals offer classes to help you learn healthy skills and develop wellness habits. Choose from our childbirth education classes, sibling and grandparent education classes, smoking cessation classes, and even our fitness classes at our gym in collaboration with the YMCA. Whatever you want to improve or develop, we offer affordable classes and workshops to help.

Find Compassionate Care, Close to Home

Our women’s services are available near where you live or work, so you can focus on your good health:

Rumford Hospital in Rumford, Maine
Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, Maine
Bridgton Hospital in Bridgton, Maine

View our Women’s and Children’s Health Services Awards and Accreditations

Gynecological Cancer

If you’re concerned you may have gynecologic cancer, Central Maine Healthcare is here for you.

About Gynecologic Cancer

Gynecologic cancer refers to cancer of the female reproductive system. It includes, but is not limited to:

Cervical cancer starts in the cervix: the lower part of the uterus. This organ has two parts and is covered in two different types of cells; cancer begins when these cells mutate and grow out of control.  Changes in the cells can be detected by an annual Pap test and treated before they form cancerous tumors.

Uterine cancer is rare and occurs in the muscle and supporting tissue of the uterus, which is also called the womb.  It can sometimes be detected by an annual Pap test, but is usually diagnosed after surgery has been performed to remove what is thought to be benign tumors on the uterus.

Ovarian cancer can grow in either or both ovaries, the organs that produce the eggs that travel through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. It ranks fifth in cancer deaths for women, but diagnoses have been steadily falling for 20 years.  Half of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are over the age of 63.

Prevention

As with all cancers, the best way to reduce your risk is to adopt a healthy lifestyle:

  • Ensure your diet is rich in vegetables and fruit
  • Exercise regularly
  • Stop using tobacco and avoid alcohol
  • Know your body and report any changes to your provider

Also discuss with your provider whether the HPV vaccine is recommended for you. This protects you from human papillomavirus, a sexually transmitted virus that can lead to cervical and other genital cancers.

Detection and Diagnosis

The best early detection tool for cervical cancers is the Pap test. That’s why it’s so important to see your provider annually for testing, especially if you have previous history of cysts or benign growths.

There are no screening tests for other gynecologic cancers so it’s important to be aware of the warning signs. The most common warning sign is abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge. Also talk to your provider if you find yourself feeling full too quickly when eating; are experiencing pelvic pressure or pain; have a need to urinate more urgently or frequently; notice changes in the skin around the vagina that may include itching, burning or pain; are experiencing abdominal bloating.