Kummetz Corporation

Already known for its work with gold mining and construction projects in economically strapped nations, Kummetz Corporation is now taking on a new field: cement production. With cement in more demand than ever, Kummetz Corporation sees this as a great opportunity for countries needing an economic boost, and the Company is working hard to foster cement production in countries that can provide it.

A compound of lime, clay, sand, and shale, cement is generally manufactured in areas where resources are readily available, Kummetz Corporation management says. China is the largest producer of cement, with India coming in second. Kummetz Corporation seeks to work with countries that aren’t currently ranking at the top, as management sees it as a great opportunity for these countries.

As part of this process, the team at Kummetz Corporation will be assisting with the development of plants in new markets, as well as acquiring already existing plants. Searching for areas where lime, clay, sand, and shale are plentiful, Kummetz Corporation will utilize these plants to help foster current facilities being operated in these same countries.

With numerous construction projects in Brazil, Kummetz Corporation has an eye on this part of the world. Brazil ranked sixth in the list of countries where cement production was most prominent. Currently, cement production has become one of Brazil’s most prominent industries, Kummetz Corporation explains. The industry took a hit during the 80s while Brazil was in recession, but Kummetz Corporation says it has begun to hit a renewal period. At last count, 11 companies were responsible for cement production in Brazil, with 65 plants located across the country.

Brazil is one of many countries that could benefit from an increased ability to manufacture cement, Kummetz Corporation explains. The demand has only continued to increase, with India being the latest to announce that demand is on the rise, states a spokesperson from Kummetz Corporation.

According to Kummetz Corporation, the East African region is another area where demand for cement has increased, with consumption outweighing supply. By creating plants that can help supplement supply, East Africa will save money in importing cement from other areas, according to Kummetz Corporation. The spokesperson from Kummetz Corporation also points out that an economic opportunity exists for the Company to provide cement to other regions in need of it, increasing economic opportunities in the financially challenged country.

Dr. Paul E. Perito

In a recent webcast with BloggerVenue, Dr. Paul E. Perito answered questions from a panel of physicians.

BloggerVenue: Can you tell us a little about what causes erectile dysfunction?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: The causes are manifold and truly anything that causes oxidative stress to the vessels of the penis. That would mean anything that is an inflammatory agent to the vessels of the penis can cause erectile dysfunction. This would include things like diabetes. Probably 10% of the patients I see have diabetes. Smokers… At least in Miami about 30% of my patients are smokers. They come in with severe erectile dysfunction. Hypertension…

BloggerVenue: So, any sort of oxidative stress to the vessels will lead to erectile dysfunction?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: Yes, and even some people whether or not they have an oxidative stress condition will wind up with erectile dysfunction because of vascular insufficiencies, meaning that there is something wrong with the veins.

BloggerVenue: Can you give us an example?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: For example, women have varicose veins. Men can have something similar to varicose veins in their penis. This may be genetic and they’ll show up in my office and this will be the first presentation of the vascular insufficiency in these patients.

BloggerVenue: Are there any hormone related issues that can cause erectile dysfunction?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: There’s also an endocrine related phenomenon, and those are usually quite rare, thanks to endocrinologists. These days I see less and less of that. Many patients have been taken care of by their primary care physician or an endocrinologist.

BloggerVenue: So what kind of the workup does a patient get before they embark on a treatment course?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: It’s interesting. I apparently do more implants than anyone in the world and one of the things I think leads to this incredible volume is that I give my patients objective-based evidence of why they have this problem. They come into the office and will get a testosterone level check if they have a low libido. They also get a good physical exam and a good history. But I think the most valuable test is a penile duplex study.

BloggerVenue: What exactly is that?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: This is a study that we are actually able to look at the arteries and veins of the penis.  I’ll be able to identify exactly where the problem is and be able to direct the patient to the different therapeutic modalities that are available.

BloggerVenue: What are the different treatment options?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: Unfortunately, it is a three-tiered system. And there is not much beyond that. Fortunately, all three tiers have high patient satisfaction. Everyone has heard of Viagra –it is a pill that allows the vessels of the penis to remain dilated. What we’re finding now, however, is that in people with severe erectile dysfunction, it does not work. There is, however, an enormous population where they are just reaching the point of erectile dysfunction where it is extremely helpful.

BloggerVenue: Is Viagra safe in all patients?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: It’s safe in most patients, except those that are using nitrates, meaning the sublingual tablets you use if you have cardiac pain.

BloggerVenue: And the second tier?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: The second tier would be injection therapy. It is an injection that you put in your penis every time you’re going to have sex. It’s a vasoactive substance which allows the vessels to dilate and this will work from 30 min. to four hours.

BloggerVenue: Does it hurt?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: No, it really does not hurt and when monitored by a urologist it’s extremely safe. The problem with injection therapy is that it has a high dropout rate. The dropout rate is about 80% over 18 months. It’s also very expensive.

BloggerVenue: You are known for penile implants; is this the final option for men with erectile dysfunction?

Dr. Paul E. Perito: Yes, the penile implant is the third tier and the last option for those with erectile dysfunction.

BloggerVenue: Thank you for speaking with us today, Dr. Paul E. Perito.

Dr. Paul E. Perito: My pleasure, thank you very much.

Dr. Paul E. Perito graduated the University Of Maryland School Of Medicine in 1988. His Coral Gables, Florida, urology center, Perito Urology, draws patients from around the globe for its innovative and updated Erectile Dysfunction treatments. Having successfully performed over 3,000 penile implants since 2005, Dr. Paul E. Perito is considered a leader in the field. His signature minimally invasive technique, The Perito Approach, has been taught to surgeons worldwide through travel and at Coral Gables Hospital, where he is Director of Urology. Dr. Paul E Perito is has participated in countless medical studies in his quest to simplify the penile implant process and make the procedure safer for his patients.

The information contained in this article is provided by Dr. Paul E. Perito for educational purposes only. It is not intended to treat or diagnose any condition.

Joe Aldeguer

Joe Aldeguer, a Chicago rooted financial expert, says that Strategic Default may help some homeowners start fresh when faced with a home whose value isn’t what they were promised it would be.

The Boom

Many homeowners were caught up in the booming real estate market of the mid 2000s, says real estate expert Joe Aldeguer, and were blatantly promised that their home’s value would increase at around 4.5% annually. Sadly, cites Joe Aldeguer, it isn’t happening that way at all. Many homeowners are now sitting “underwater” in a house they were led to believe would help secure their future. Joe Aldeguer says it is time to get real and face the possibility that real estate isn’t the golden egg it was once thought.

The Bust

In Joe Aldeguer’s home city of Chicago, the average home value in July of 2007 was around a quarter million dollars. Today, that number has slid to just under $180,000. For families who fall into Chicago’s median income of around $41,000, that is nearly two year’s salary. Over-inflated home prices and irresponsible lending, says Joe Aldeguer, were the pins that popped the housing bubble.

How Strategic Default Can Help

In some cases, says Joe Aldeguer, once a person ceases to pay his or her mortgage, there is a time lapse of up to two years before the lending institution can physically acquire the property. This time cushion can allow a homeowner the opportunity to save the equivalent of a mortgage payment each month. This extra cash can be used to save for rent, pay off other debt, or build a retirement nest egg, cites Joe Aldeguer.

Why Strategic Default?

Joe Aldeguer points out that if a home’s value is less than the homeowner’s loan amount, the bank isn’t even going to consider offering any concessions on the loan until it is in default. Joe Aldeguer notes that a Strategic Default doesn’t always end with leaving the residence. In some instances, a bank may be willing to modify the loan terms so it is more agreeable with the current market situation. Homeowners wishing to be free of the burden of an overpriced parcel may choose to default intentionally if there appears to be no other timely alternative, says Joe Aldeguer.

When Should Defaulting Become an Option?

From his office in Chicago, Joe Aldeguer often advises clients that a strategic default may be a good fit for their situation if there is no other recourse that ensures financial stability.  When there is no way to foreseeably attain equity in the property, says Joe Aldeguer, defaulting may be a wise choice. Additionally, Joe Aldeguer reminds the mortgagee that the money being paid every month will never be recouped from the bank. Once a home is so far upside down, there is little likelihood of its value skyrocketing again. If the homeowner wishes to secure his or her financial future, sometimes letting go is a much better decision that staying and drowning.

Joe Aldeguer may be reached at his office in Chicago by calling 312-945-8105.

Dr. Paul Perito

Men’s health remains a hot topic as the Baby Boomer population advances into their 50s and beyond, with erectile dysfunction being a chief concern for those wishing to remain sexually active. Seeing a need for a better approach to traditional penile implant procedures, Dr. Paul Perito developed a minimally invasive technique that is fast, safe, effective, and offers patients a relatively quick recovery period. BloggerVenue caught up with Dr. Paul Perito at his Coral Gables, Florida, urology office, Perito Urology, to get a better idea of exactly what makes his technique different from traditional procedures.

BloggerVenue: First of all, we would like to say thank you for speaking with us this afternoon.

Dr. Paul Perito: You’re welcome. Thank you for your interest in Perito Urology.

BloggerVenue: So, doctor, can you please explain to us the Perito technique.

Dr. Paul Perito: My procedure is different in that I start my case with an artificial erection. This, I think, is probably the most important aspect of the case.

BloggerVenue: Can you explain why?

Dr. Paul Perito: Well, the artificial erection accomplishes three things. First, I can identify areas of pathology before I start the case. If there is dimpling in the corpora; if there’s a penile curvature that is going to need plastic correction of angulation of the penis that I did not know about, I will find out about it at this time. The second thing that it does – I do not need to do any dilation. There is no serial dilation in my case. The dilation is accomplished by the artificial erection itself. We are now in the process of getting an IRB to see, if indeed this translates into less cold glands and maybe more sensate when it comes to the glands during coitus.

BloggerVenue:  And third?

Dr. Paul Perito: Finally, if you add a bit of lidocaine to the mixture it will make it easy to do this procedure under local anesthesia, and nowadays I am probably doing about 90% of my cases under local anesthesia.

BloggerVenue: Are there large incisions involved?

Dr. Paul Perito: Yes, there are. I was taught to make my corporatomy long; but it’s important that when you get to the corpora to make them small. My corporotomy is only about 1 ½ cm long – that corresponds to the widest part of the Titan implant, which would be the back of the implant.

BloggerVenue: So your approach is infra pubic?

Dr. Paul Perito: Yes, one of the advantages of the infra pubic approach is that there’s no incision on the scrotum, so my patients, on day one, are starting to find their deflate mechanism.

BloggerVenue: Are there other advantages of this type of approach?

Dr. Paul Perito: The other advantage of having this infra pubic approach and having your corporotomy up top is that everyone gets a 10 pound sandbag in the recovery room for two hours, and if you find that the JP is filling up, and it keeps filling up, you just tell them to keep that sandbag in place and if they are at home, they can put some books on the area.

BloggerVenue: So patients get to go home quickly after the surgery?

Dr. Paul Perito: Yes.

BloggerVenue: Our time is almost up. Would you like to add anything?

Dr. Paul Perito: In conclusion, I would like to say that the minimally invasive approach to penile implantation is safe, efficacious and expedient and I think it should be taught in conjunction with the penile scrotal approach, since both of them have such great strengths. Thank you very much for speaking with me today.

*******

Dr. Paul Perito is a 1988 graduate of the University Of Maryland School Of Medicine. His practice, Perito Urology, is considered one of the foremost Erectile Dysfunction treatments centers in the world. Since 2005, Dr. Paul Perito has successfully performed more than 3,000 penile implants, establishing him as a leader in the field. He has streamlined the procedure, making it not only more efficient, but safer, by the development and actualization of a minimally invasive approach. Aside from contributing extensively to medical publication libraries, Dr. Paul Perito heads the training center at Perito Urology where his technique is taught to an audience of surgeons from across the globe.

The information contained in this article is provided by Dr. Paul Perito for educational purposes only. It is not intended to treat or diagnose any condition.

The Balancing Act Lifetime

The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television Marybel Rodriguez:  Although the economy is down, healthcare jobs are up. The most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that healthcare is one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy, adding nearly 400,000 jobs over the past year. Kathleen Gilmartin is here to tell us about these very rewarding careers.

The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television: It seems like healthcare careers offer so much, not only personally, but also financially.  What is it about healthcare that makes it such a solid career choice?

Kathleen: Healthcare is a solid career choice because there’s such a demand. There’s an ever-growing population and our healthcare system is in great need of all kinds of skill levels.  The reward part of the career comes because it is so grounded in caring for people. It’s a humane service that touches both your heart and your mind.

The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television: It seems like one of the biggest challenges for today’s working woman is trying to find that right balance between work and your personal life.

Paige: I have a fantastic son named Jacob.  He’s 8 years old and when he went back to school one year, I knew that I wanted to find a way to get back into my career and still have that flexibility. I’m able to see my patients, make my schedule around his schedule, all around what I want to be able to do as a mother.  It’s also nice to be with Interim Healthcare because they manage on a local level.  I can walk right into my boss’s office and I am right there talking with the owner of the company.

The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television: Tell us a little bit about your career highlights and why you decided to work for Interim Healthcare.

Kathleen: My career was always as a registered nurse and I was actually introduced to Interim Healthcare many years ago in a hospital setting, where nurses were there and I was impressed with their competence.  I was fortunate enough to be able to work for one of our owners in one of our markets, learned how to manage one of our offices and to this day I’ve continued to take on more responsibility and today I lead the company as we continue to recruit and provide a great environment for healthcare professionals.

The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television: Sounds like an amazing organization. Can you please tell The Balancing Act viewers a little more about the company itself?

Kathleen: We’ve been established for over 40 years.  We have about 350 offices around the country, which gives us added flexibility to offer employment options and choices to our employees.

The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television: Paige, you were telling me that you love what you do, but did you ever think that you’d be doing this?

Paige: I knew after I had my son was when I would have a good chance to do what I wanted to do and be able to balance my life.  I love being in there with my patients.  I have that one-on-one interaction with my patient and I can really make a difference in their lives.

The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television: Kathleen, what types of people or organizations benefit from Interim Healthcare’s services?

Kathleen:  Individuals who are recovering from an illness or have an acute episode of an illness, they are the people that we care for in their home settings and that is the majority of our patients.  On the organizational side, hospitals are one of the clients that we work closely with and they often need nurses. Nursing homes, extended rehab facilities- just think of any organization, even in the workplace where they have a clinic on-site.  We provide nurse and staff for those organizations.  Hospice, home care and staffing are the primary services that we deliver across our network of 250 offices.

The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television: The great thing seems to be that you go into the home where they feel comfortable and can get the most rest.

Kathleen:  The ability to be cared for in the home is the preferred method for all patients.  Having healthcare delivered to the home is what we do best.

The Balancing Act Lifetime Television is the only morning show in America produced by women specifically for women. Every morning, The Balancing Act on Lifetime hosts Danielle Knox and Kristy Villa tackle the issues that face today’s woman. Popular show segments include Live weather updates with Mark Mancuso, surprise celebrity visitors, and news about the latest trends affecting your life, home, career and family. The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television airs daily on Lifetime at 7 a.m. ET/PT. For more information, visit The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television’s website at www.thebalancingact.com.

BrandStar Entertainment

The following segment originally aired on the September 20^th, 2011 show on BrandStar Entertainment’s morning TV show, The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television.  The featured guests were Dr. Lisa Young from Elanco Companion Animal Health and Dr. Ernie Ward from Seaside Animal Care in Calabash, North Carolina.

BrandStar Entertainment – The Balancing Act on Lifetime:  Our pets mean so much to us.  We want them to live longer, healthier and high-quality lives.  Just like you and your family go to the doctor, your pet should also make regular visits to the veterinarian.   A trip to the vet can be more than just a few shots when your pet is sick.  Regular veterinary visits are an important part of being sure that they’re receiving the proper healthcare they need and you can also take advantage of new developments in veterinary medicine.  Prevention is better, not to mention easier and ultimately less expensive than treatment.  BrandStar Entertainment’s The Balancing Act on Lifetime talks about dog health and the prevention of some dangerous parasites with guests, Dr. Lisa Young from Elanco Companion Animal Health and Dr. Ernie Ward from Seaside Animal Care in Calabash, North Carolina.

BrandStar Entertainment – The Balancing Act on Lifetime:  When we go to the vet, what can we expect?

Young & Ward:  Pet owners should establish a good relationship with a trusted veterinarian.  Here’s a checklist that everybody should complete when they go to the vet.  First, make sure your vet gets a good and thorough medical history.  Like, what you’re feeding them, how much exercise do they get, what supplements or preventatives are you giving them?  Make sure to have that conversation.

Young & Ward:  Second.  Have your vet do a very complete and thorough physical exam from nose to toes.  Make sure they’re doing all the preventative measures, whether it’s vaccines or blood tests or whatever.  Make sure they’re covering ALL the bases.

Young & Ward:  Third.  Make sure you’re given some homework.  What are the things you should be doing at home?  Maybe it’s a behavior problem you can work on.  Maybe you haven’t been giving your heartworm preventative like you should.  If most pet owners can follow those 3 simple things, the relationship and experience will be that much better.

Young & Ward:  One of our focuses when we have visits is parasite control and preventative measures on that in particular.  There are a lot of combination products to get heartworm disease, fleas and intestinal parasites.

Young & Ward:  As veterinarians, we get frustrated sometimes seeing sick pets.  We think to ourselves, if we could just rewind the tape, maybe about six months—this would never have occurred.

BrandStar Entertainment – The Balancing Act on Lifetime:  I know you probably see this a lot in your practice, where you have pets come in with heartworms.  Ultimately they die and it’s a really sad thing, because as you’ve been saying… preventative medicine really is the key.

Young & Ward:  Heartworm disease.  We’re talking 14-inch worms that can live in your dog’s heart.  Imagine you’re a little Chihuahua and you’ve got a worm in you that’s BIGGER than you!  This is serious business and it’s also fatal if untreated in almost ALL cases—and you can prevent it.  There’s no reason.

BrandStar Entertainment – The Balancing Act on Lifetime:  How can dogs contract the disease?
>>Young & Ward:  Your dog has to be bitten by an infected mosquito, or of course the other reason is fleas.

Young & Ward:  Internal parasites and one of the things pet owners may forget, is that many of these intestinal parasites can actually be transmitted to us and to children in particular. It’s our job as veterinarians to make sure we’re educating our clients about those parasites as well as the products that can treat as well as prevent those diseases.

BrandStar Entertainment – The Balancing Act on Lifetime:  I’ve always heard that parasites are seasonal, that they come out in the summertime or when the weather is hot.

Young & Ward:  That’s a total myth.  I wish it were that easy. The threat from heartworm disease is year-round deadly.  This isn’t something that you can turn off in January when it gets a little cold.  Most parts of the country are going to have those days in January and February when it does get above 70-degrees— that’s all mosquitoes are looking for, that little bit of sunshine.  The other thing, is your house isn’t freezing in January.  So, you’re still keeping the ambient air temperature warm—so now you’ve got problems with fleas.

Young & Ward:  Now there are internal parasites.  I wish it were just a seasonal thing, but for us as veterinarians—this is a year-round deadly disease.  The other part is our American Heartworm Society, as well as our Companion Animal Parasite Council both recommend year-round broad-spectrum parasite control every month… all year long… for every pet.

BrandStar Entertainment’s, The Balancing Act on Lifetime:  Now that we’ve talked about the problems.  What are the solutions?  Let’s start with parasites.  What can we do to prevent them?

Young & Ward:  Preventing parasites couldn’t be easier for a dog owner today.  For my pet patients, I’m looking for simple solutions, combination products.  I want a product that takes care of heartworm disease, takes care of fleas and all those internal parasites that could be transmitted to us.  We’ve got pills now that dogs just love—they’re chewable, so it’s like getting a treat!  I know there are other products, but I’m looking for things that are a little bit easier to take.

Young & Ward:  Pet owners just need to talk to their vet and ask; what are some of the options available, what are things that I can do that are easy on me and what can save me money?  By using these combination products—that’s where a pet owner has the opportunity to save money.

BrandStar Entertainment – The Balancing Act on Lifetime:  What else can pet owners do?

Young & Ward:  Number one, those annual exams are critical and make sure you’re getting your money’s worth.  Two, get blood and urine tests because they can uncover hidden diseases.   Remember, even if you think your dog looks healthy, no problems—you don’t know though.  Three, behavior problems—so talk to your vet about behavior training.  In this day and age we have too many good tools and resources.  Next, is heartworm disease.  That’s very important.  Preventative care is once a month—it’s a no-brainer!

BrandStar Entertainment – The Balancing Act on Lifetime:  If you want to know more information on pet health and caring for your dog, just go to elancopet.com.

The award-winning television production team at BrandStar Entertainment is one of the industry’s leaders.  BrandStar Entertainment features a full array of creative services that include distribution, sound stages and production/post production facilities. BrandStar Entertainment is known for producing content driven shows like The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television, the only morning show in America produced by women specifically for women. BrandStar proudly carries a WomenCertified® Seal, demonstrating leadership in women friendly programming. BrandStar Entertainment’s The Balancing Act airs daily on Lifetime at 7 a.m. ET/PT. For more information, visit BrandStar Entertainment’s website for The Balancing Act at www.thebalancingact.com.

Madison Pharmacy Associates

Marla Ahlgrimm has come a long way from the early days—battling to educate the country about premenstrual syndrome while co-founding Madison Pharmacy Associates. Starting in a 700 square foot pharmacy space, Madison Pharmacy Associates immediately attracted national attention, with Ahlgrimm and her colleague  fielding calls seven days a week.

After that first year, Ahlgrimm was able to hire a third pharmacist, as well as a bookkeeper. The business was steadily growing as word spread about the work Madison Pharmacy Associates was doing, but it wasn’t easy. As Marla Ahlgrimm recalls today, Madison Pharmacy Associates found themselves starting from scratch at every level while facing skepticism and even outright opposition from colleagues, lending institutions, and friends and family.

Because Madison Pharmacy Associates’ work was groundbreaking, Marla Ahlgrimm had to learn how to do everything, from financing to phone systems to interpreting state and federal regulations. Permission had to granted from the State Pharmacy Board to even open a pharmacy specializing in women’s health.  In addition to state authorities, Ahlgrimm and her colleague also had to deal with the FDA. They were able to observe the process for getting a new drug approved, as well as learn about federal and university research protocols. Marketing this new type of pharmacy was also a challenge.

“Madison Pharmacy Associates pioneered the techniques for getting the word out about our services,” Marla Ahlgrimm recalls. This often involved providing background information to radio and television researchers. In the meantime, Ahlgrimm co-authored two successful books titled The HRT Solution­–Optimizing Your Hormone Potential and Self-Help for Premenstrual Syndrome, which helped to spread the word. Soon, Ahlgrimm found physicians and patients were contacting her for advice.  Over time, Ahlgrimm found her work not only respected but imitated. Madison Pharmacy Associates’ techniques to improve powder flow and medication absorption, for instance, were incorporated at major pharmaceutical companies.  Madison Pharmacy Associates’ emphasis on prescription compounding was used as an example to University of Wisconsin pharmacy students that compounding is still an important part of the industry. The pharmacy continues to serve as a clinical rotation site for pharmacy students.

Often Marla Ahlgrimm is asked to provide advice for pharmacists interested in having the same industry-wide impact as she has. “Remember that intangible values such as pride, vision, trust, and optimism reveal themselves in every transaction you and your employees are involved in,” Marla Ahlgrimm advises. “In fact, these things are the most important measures of success.”

The information in this article has been previously published and is provided as a reference resource by Marla Ahlgrimm, R.Ph. Madison Pharmacy Associates was sold in 2011. Marla Ahlgrimm is also the co-founder and President of Cyclin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The company sells proprietary products for the women’s health market as well as ProCycle PMS and ProCycle Gold products. For more information, go online to www.cyclinpharma.com

Marla Ahlgrimm

BloggerVenue recently had the opportunity to speak with Marla Ahlgrimm, founder of Women’s Health America. In her thirty years of experience in the field of women’s health, Marla Ahlgrimm, R.Ph. has helped more than 300,000 women find relief for symptoms related to premenstrual syndrome(PMS), perimenopause, and menopause.

BloggerVenue: Marla Ahlgrimm, welcome! We understand that you regularly treat patients for a variety of symptoms related to hormone imbalance. How do you know which type of hormone replacement therapy will work for a particular patient?

Marla Ahlgrimm, R.Ph.: Each woman is different,  but hormone  therapy usually will usually consist of an estrogen, progesterone, and an androgen like testosterone or DHEA, if necessary. The amount and type is what varies from woman to woman.

BloggerVenue: Beyond a woman’s reproductive years, how important is estrogen?

Marla Ahlgrimm, R.Ph.: While many people think of estrogen in terms of its relationship to reproduction, estrogen is actually vital to many of the body’s processes, including heart health, brain health, bone density,  skin and hair condition. In fact, estrogen works in over 300 areas throughout a woman’s body. Estrogen is actually a category of hormones that include estradiol, estrone, and estriol. Estradiol is the most potent form of estrogen, produced in large amounts by the ovaries before menopause. Estrone is the primary form of estrogen in a woman’s body after menopause. And estriol, otherwise known as the forgotten estrogen, is produced by the placenta in large amounts during pregnancy.

BloggerVenue: At Madison Pharmacy Associates, you and your staff provided traditional tablets and capsules. Estrogen is available in other forms as well, isn’t it, Marla Ahlgrimm?

Marla Ahlgrimm, R.Ph.: We have formulated everything from vaginal and transdermal skin creams, to sublingual tablets, to oral tablets and capsules. The estradiol transdermal patch is is available commercially. You might be familiar with the names Climara or Vivelle. It primarily depends on what symptoms you doctor is treating though personal preference is often considered as well.  For some women, the skin patch can cause skin irritation but for women who have a hard time remembering to take medication or suffer with headaces, the patch may be a good solution. It also helps women with high triglycerides. Vaginal estriol or estradiol cream is applied locally for patients who have urinary stress incontinence and vaginal dryness. Costs and insurance coverage may also factor into a woman’s decision. Each patient should discuss her options with her physician.

BloggerVenue: People talk about synthetic hormones and natural hormones. What’s the difference between the two?

Marla Ahlgrimm, R.Ph.: Natural can be a bit of a misnomer. Where hormone replacement therapy is concerned, ‘natural’ just means it is bioidentical or identical to the hormones your body produces naturally. A synthetic hormone is similar to your body’s hormones, but not identical. The small chemical differences can have a large impact on your body. Synthetic hormones like Provera, medroxyprogesterone, can cause irritability, nausea, depression, and water retention in some women. Because natural hormone therapy is identical and prescribed in low doses, most women experience minimal to no side effects.

BloggerVenue: Is estrogen the only hormone available commercially?

Marla Ahlgrimm, R.Ph.: Estradiol and progesterone are now available commercially from the major pharmaceutical manufacturers. The dosage choices are limited though. Many women suffering from a reduced sex drive opt to take testosterone. A natural testosterone treatment can be administered, but it is not commercially available. It can be compounded by a pharmacist, however, if your doctor feels testosterone treatment is right for you.

BloggerVenue: How often does a patient have to take hormone therapy after menopause?

Marla Ahlgrimm, R.Ph.: There are two types of HRT regimens—cyclical and continuous combined. Many patients take HRT cyclically, which means they take estrogen every day and progesterone for 12-14 days. Most prefer continuous combined therapy, a patient takes estrogen and progesterone every day. There are fewer effects with the latter, and women don’t experience the monthly bleeding they may experience initially with the cyclical method.

BloggerVenue: Once a woman is prescribed a hormone replacement regimen, will she be continuing that regimen for the rest of her life?

Marla Ahlgrimm, R.Ph.: While this is certainly a likelihood, hormone therapy is something that must be revisited at least once a year by your physician. Your doctor will test your hormone levels and adjust your medication levels accordingly.

BloggerVenue: Thank you so much for talking to us today, Marla Ahlgrimm. Do you have any other points you’d like to make?

Marla Ahlgrimm, R.Ph.: Just that there is no ‘one size fits all’ for hormone therapy when patients work with a pharmacy specialized in prescription compounding, like Madison Pharmacy Associates. Each prescription is customized to the individual patient using low dosing and natural hormones.

For more information, visit Dr. Marla Ahlgrimm online at www.marlaahlgrim.com

Instant Tax Solutions

Instant Tax Solutions Is on Your Side

Wage garnishment? Penalties? If problems with the IRS are plaguing you, Instant Tax Solutions has a tax attorney available to help.

Instant Tax Solutions knows that as a taxpayer, you have rights. No matter what your situation, one of Instant Tax Solutions’ tax professionals can help. There are things the IRS won’t tell you. With a licensed, experience Instant Tax Solutions tax attorney on your side, you’ll be advised of the laws that affect your particular situation and, in many cases, be able to come to a mutually agreeable decision on your tax debt.

According to Instant Tax Solutions co-founder Byron Pedersen, the company that began with four people around a table has expanded to a full staff of more than forty tax professionals, including a tax attorney, experienced accountants, enrolled agents, and former IRS agents. All of Instant Tax Solutions’ employees have one common goal – to always place customer service and integrity first.

Instant Tax Solutions Will Help You Navigate Through Your Options

Taxpayers who are indebted to the IRS may find themselves dealing with wage garnishments, property liens and even criminal charges, explains Instant Tax Solutions. All of these possibilities can seem daunting to the average taxpayer. An Instant Tax Solutions tax attorney can help you navigate through all the tax laws and advise you of your options.

Not only can an Instant Tax Solutions attorney advise you on your options in repaying the debt, Instant Tax Solutions can negotiate with the IRS on your behalf. If Instant Tax Solutions can’t reduce your debt, says Pedersen, attorneys can often work out a payment plan to keep you and your business from being negatively impacted.

Instant Tax Solutions has more than 40 tax professionals ready to help you with your tax problems. With more than 100 years of combined experience, Instant Tax Solutions provides low-cost, friendly assistance to taxpayers in a variety of areas. For more information, visit Instant Tax Solutions online at www.instanttaxsolutions.com

Instant Tax Solutions

Instant Tax Solutions knows that, with the end of 2011 fast approaching, taxes are on everyone’s mind. Blogger Venue recently spoke with the team at Instant Tax Solutions, a Post Falls, Idaho-based tax firm specializing in IRS debt. The topic: business taxes, specifically Payroll Tax Form 941.

Blogger Venue: Thank you for chatting with us this afternoon.

Instant Tax Solutions:It’s not a problem. One of our main goals is taxpayer education, so this is a perfect opportunity for us.

Blogger Venue:Let’s get to it, shall we? What exactly is IRS Form 941 and why is it important?

Instant Tax Solutions:It is the form businesses must file quarterly for their employees’ taxes.

Blogger Venue:Federal?

Instant Tax Solutions: Yes, it is an IRS form.

Blogger Venue:Are all businesses required to file it?

Instant Tax Solutions:Not all of them, there are a few exceptions. Seasonal businesses, employers of workers in their home…

Blogger Venue:But the majority of US employers must file this form?

Instant Tax Solutions: Yes, exactly.

Blogger Venue:What information is required on Form 941?

Instant Tax Solutions:A business must report their number of employees, any wages they have paid, withholdings…

Blogger Venue:So, basically any financial information regarding payment to employees?

Instant Tax Solutions:Yes, they must also report employee gratuities.

Blogger Venue:Are there consequences when an employer fails to supply this information?

Instant Tax Solutions: Absolutely. The IRS does not look well upon employers who do not punctually report wage related information.

Blogger Venue:We’ve seen the form – it looks a bit intimidating.

Instant Tax Solutions:Yes, it can be. Here at Instant Tax Solutions, we help businesses with them almost daily. They can be very tricky. They [the IRS] are changing the form for the 2012 tax year, too, so it is vital to pay close attention.

Blogger Venue:Before we conclude – please tell us, can a business file a form late without penalties?

Instant Tax Solutions:Well the IRS is going to impose penalties but an experienced tax debt relief agency, like Instant Tax Solutions, can help. We can assist in settling with the IRS for a possible reduction of the fees.

Blogger Venue: That’s got to be a lifesaver for some businesses.

Instant Tax Solutions:Oh yes, it is. We have seen cases where the business owner just had a bad quarter and forgot, then wound up in deep financial trouble with the IRS. When we negotiate a settlement for them, often it saves their business.

Blogger Venue:Well, we know you have to get back to work -we’re sure quarterly taxes mean you are always busy! Thank you for your time today.

Instant Tax Solutions: You’re welcome. Please feel free to have your readers visit our website for more information about this and other tax related issues. It is www.InstantTaxSolutions.com

Instant Tax Solutions is a nationally respected tax debt relief firm based in Post Falls, Idaho. Their 40 plus tax professionals are knowledgeable in all areas of IRS delinquency and procedure. They aim to aid and educate their clients and ensure an open line of communication throughout the term of their service. Founded in the mid 2000s by Byron Pedersen and Ian Woodman, Instant Tax Solutions was built on the belief that good people find themselves in bad situations and that they deserve the same respect they enjoyed prior to their hardship.