Environmental Lung Disease Clinic

Around 80% of adults experience low back pain, and most are not candidates for surgery. Prentiss Lawson, Jr., M.D., and Christopher Paul, M.D., both anesthesiologists who specialize in pain medicine, discuss a promising new durable therapy for low back pain called restorative neurostimulation. Unlike existing low back pain management options, neurostimulation addresses a root cause, a weak or inactive multifidus muscle. The doctors explain the minimally invasive procedure, which involves sending electric pulses to the multifidus nerves. Learn how this treatment uniquely restores patents’ spinal stability and thereby reduces chronic pain.

Telehealth is impacting nearly every aspect of health care. Zain Hashmi, M.D., a trauma surgeon, discusses the potential of telehealth for improving access to comprehensive trauma care among rural patients. He explains how finding ways for EMS teams to consult trauma experts virtually and closer to emergencies could reduce transfer rates and improve patient care. Dr. Hashmi outlines the challenges of implementing telehealth for trauma care, emphasizing the need for 360-degree stakeholder engagement.

Carotid stenosis, caused by a buildup of plaque in the carotid artery, accounts for around 20% of all ischemic strokes. Mark Harrigan, M.D., and Elizabeth Liptrap, M.D., both neurosurgeons, discuss key aspects of medical management and interventions for carotid stenosis. Learn about two new alternatives to the (still-effective) endarterectomy procedure. The doctors explain how their approach to management and intervention varies by patient.

The Birmingham region grew around heavy industry, including coal mining and steel production. These industries, which still employ thousands today, can pose hazards to workers’ health and others in the community. The UAB Environmental Lung Disease Clinic provides comprehensive evaluations for patients with respiratory conditions related to work exposure or environmental hazards. Kevin Dsouza, M.D., and Crystal Stephens, CRNP, helped found and lead the clinic. They discuss the scope of their work, when providers should refer patients, and how patients can also self-refer.

Over one million people in the U.S. grapple with HIV. Although life expectancy has increased, end-stage organ diseases have a relatively high mortality rate for these patients. Learn about HIV-to-HIV kidney transplants from Shikha Mehta, M.D., director of the UAB HIV and Hepatitis C Transplant Program. She explains how her interdisciplinary team has made successful kidney transplants for over decade despite numerous challenges and comorbidities of those with HIV.

While nonpulsatile tinnitus (constant buzzing sound) is a common condition many people learn to live with, pulsatile tinnitus (sound that occurs with each heartbeat) may indicate dangerous otological or vascular conditions. Erika McCarty Walsh, M.D., a neurotologist, and Jesse Jones, M.D., a neuroradiologist, discuss the complex process of determining whether patients have pulsatile tinnitus, what the causes are, and which treatments might be considered necessary. Drs. Walsh and Jones describe their collaborative approach to making sure that patients address any dangerous conditions and otherwise learn to manage their pulsatile tinnitus.

Around 15% of people in the U.S. have a form of chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is often related to diabetes and hypertension. Claretha Lyas, M.D., a nephrologist, discusses the interdisciplinary approach to treating CKD alongside its root causes. Learn about two new classes of medicine that are slowing the progression of CKD. Find out the best time to refer a patient to a nephrologist, who can manage disease progression and provide a seamless transition to transplant evaluation services if needed.

Many women who have typical symptoms of coronary artery disease actually have coronary microvascular disease (MVD). Gretchen Wells, M.D., a cardiologist, explains why it is important for physicians to proceed with tests for MVD when cardiac catheterization does not indicate coronary artery disease. She explores the common symptoms, proven and potential interventions, and the serious risks posed by MVD. Dr. Wells recommends patients explore multidisciplinary cardiac rehabilitation programs if they are diagnosed with MVD.

Only 60% of age-eligible adults are up to date on their colorectal cancer screenings. Drew Gunnells, Jr., M.D., and Shajan Peter, M.D., discuss why the colonoscopy is still their preferred first-line screening and polyp removal method, while newer at-home screening methods are useful in regions with limited access to care. The doctors discuss advancements in A.I. that they use to improve the detection of polyps during a colonoscopy. Learn more about a local partnership to provide free colonoscopies to residents despite insurance status or other barriers.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can occur in women who have neither obesity nor insulin resistance – two conditions that are often used as clues. William Hurd, M.D., a specialist in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, explains the three signs that help determine if a patient has PCOS. He also discusses working with patients to meet their reproductive planning goals while managing symptoms. Learn how a multidisciplinary team can manage the comorbidities often related to PCOS.