How to Shake the Winter Blahs

About the time we have to set our clocks back, and the days begin to grow darker – quicker – many people tend to slide into a condition commonly referred to as “Seasonal Depression”.  Don’t give in to the “blues” … get up and take some very positive steps towards the sun … literally!  We are so fortunate to live in Florida where the sunny days outnumber the cloudy ones.  When things are dreary, immediately turn on the lights, go for more walks on the beach when the sun is out, or if your condition is really severe, you can invest in a Light Box, which is said to boost serotonin levels.  Regardless, get access to good light within an hour or two of waking. 

Some doctors feel a diet rich in figs (Vitamin B6), Swiss Chard (Magnesium), and dried, dark cherries (Melatonin) will also help this condition.  You might also consider having your levels of Vitamin D measured.  Setting regular times to sleep, and getting up at the same time each morning, will also help.  (If you have a hard time getting to sleep, a one (1) mg tablet of melatonin can be purchased across the counter.) 

 

It may also help to insert bright colors into your wardrobe, followed by trying to keep a “sunny” attitude!  Consider keeping a journal on the days when you feel “down”, recording your emotions within its pages.  It’s just like free therapy, because once you begin to focus on the good things in your life, you find that behind every cloud there really is a silver lining!  If you do all of the above and depression and/or anxiety persists, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your physician.  Dr. Crayton and his staff at The Arthritis and Infusion Center welcome any questions you might have about your health. We’ll address those topics in future blogs, e-newsletters, or our print edition of the practice newsletter.  Remember:  Pain is not normal.  Let us help!

How to Make the Holidays Less Harried

During Christmas and the entire holiday season, everyone’s schedule ramps up with huge expectations and crammed to-do lists.  The Arthritis and Infusion Center would like to remind you that this should be a time of celebration!  So, look at your plans and see what you can do to simplify.  Dr. Crayton would like to suggest that you don’t over complicate things.  Stop to recognize your family and friends, especially the seniors in your life, making them the focus of your time and holiday spirit.  Then, don’t over extend yourself … physically or monetarily.  One way to help with this issue is to become more organized and follow a set budget.  If you are experiencing unhappy emotions, it is actually healthier to notice and verbalize your feelings to someone who is close to you.  Of course it should go without saying that you should exercise, eat correctly, and get the appropriate amount of sleep each night.  Finally, take the focus off yourself and transfer it to others.  Even the smallest gesture toward others will be one of the best gifts you can give yourself … and a side benefit will be comfort and joy during the holidays.  Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Dr. Crayton and his staff.

DR. CRAYTON SPREADS Seasonal WARMTH!

Dr. Hulon Crayton, Rheumatologist and owner of The Arthritis and Infusion Center, is all too aware of the need for senior citizens to stay warm.  “As people age, their blood and skin thins, and certain medications, especially those used to treat arthritis, can also cause the person to feel perpetually chilly.  When we became aware of the opportunity at Community Health and Rehabilitation Center, we felt we had to get involved by purchasing extra lap robes for the residents to utilize,” said Dr. Crayton.

Betty L. Smith and Dr. Crayton

Marianne Martin, Administrator, at the Community Health and Rehabilitation Center was very grateful to Dr. Crayton and his team.  “We appreciate the extra lap robes, as our Residents enjoy the extra warmth they provide when navigating from room to room around our center.  We are so very grateful to Dr. Crayton for this donation,” said Ms. Martin. 

This winter, The Arthritis and Infusion Center would like to encourage Bay County residents to clean out their linen closets or purchase NEW lap robes and blankets for Dr. Crayton and his staff to distribute to area nursing homes.  “We’d like to continue to ‘spread the warmth’ as much as possible.  People who are interested in helping us with this important project can drop blankets at our medical practice any Monday through Thursday, 2917 Highway 77 in the Baldwin Plaza,” said Dr. Crayton.  “Help us continue to spread the warmth during this entire winter season!”

In addition to tangibly taking the chill off, the center’s residents will also enjoy a surprise musical concert from Dr. Crayton, who will play his saxophone to add emotional warmth to the holiday season.  (Dr. Crayton performs jazz concerts under the stage name of HULON with his On-Call Band.)  Dr. Crayton will be delivering, and performing, at the Community Health and Rehabilitation Center (3611 Transmitter Road) Friday, December 9^th, 2:30 p.m.

How can you spread seasonal warmth?

TheArthritis and Infusion Center will collect blankets to distribute from December 1 until March 31 at their medical practice.

Medicare Card Fraud: Protect your Identity!

There are so many stories about identity theft in the news lately.  Join Dr. Hulon Crayton, as he shares with you a quick and simple step to protect your identity.

Pictured below is a Medicare card card and a social security card.  We all know that protecting our social security numbers is important.  However, your Medicare card typically has your social security number on it.  In the unfortunate event that your wallet or purse is stolen, the thief not only has your money but now has your personal information that can lead to financial disaster.  An identify thief can take your driver’s license and social security number off your Medicare card and have all the information they need to assume your identity and open lines of credit in your name.

A simple solution to carrying your original Medicare card with your social security number is this.  Make a copy of your Medicare card.  With a black marker, mark through the first 5 numbers leaving only the last 4 numbers visible.  Carry the altered version of your Medicare card with you and place your original Medicare card in a secure location such as a safety deposit box or safe.  When you are required to present your Medicare card to physician’s offices or pharmacies, simply fill in your full Medicare card on the required paperwork. 

This is a quick and simple action for you to take to help protect your identity. 

For more information from Dr. Hulon Crayton with The Arthritis & Infusion Center on arthritis, helpful tips, or on my practice, follow me on Twitter, Facebook or visit my website.

PPO vs. HMO: What’s the difference?

Are you responsible for obtaining your own private insurance policy?  Do you have questions, concerns, and anxiety when it comes to choosing a plan?  Don’t worry, because you are not alone.  Thousands of working and retired Americans are now finding themselves in the market for an individual insurance policy.  The Arthritis and Infusion Center understands that the world of insurance is confusing.  We have set up a few tips to help you navigate you through the process.

What is an HMO?  An HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) is the most common form of managed healthcare.  In this managed care plan, the patient is required to utilize a primary-care physician (PCP) who will oversee all aspects of the patients care.  This physician will be a member of the HMO network.  As necessary, the PCP will refer the patient to a specialist or an outpatient facility for services or treatment.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of an HMO?  The advantage of an HMO is the patient has one physician overseeing the general health and wellness of the patient.  This plan can be very beneficial in ensuring preventative medical care such as yearly wellness exams.  The disadvantage of an HMO is that the patient is required to see in network-physician, therefore removing some of the freedom of traditional plans.  Additionally, in many instances, venturing outside of the “network” for an HMO will result in nonpayment by the carrier. 

A PPO is known as a Preferred Provider Organization and is much different from an HMO.  In the PPO setting, the patient has the freedom to choose any physician and there is no need for primary care physician referrals.  Usually, this type of policy has an annual deductible and coinsurance that the patient is responsible to pay to the treating physician.  Physicians often sign up to become PPO network providers, which is a benefit to the patient.  An in-network physician will accept the negotiated contract payment schedule for the particular insurance company and then the patient is only responsible for the deductible, or coinsurance, of reasonable and customary billed services.  The disadvantage of the PPO plan is that if a patient chooses to see an out-of-network provider, then the patient may be billed for the difference between what the insurance company pays the physician and what the physician actually charges, plus the deductible and coinsurance.  In some cases, there is a separate deductible for out-of-network providers.  Be sure to read the term of your insurance policy for specific information.

Medicare Advantage Plans: What You Need To Know

Medicare Advantage plans are very popular and are a wonderful way to combine three traditional Medicare policies and even add an extra coverage without purchasing a separate policy.  However, be extremely careful when choosing this type of policy.   As with any insurance plan, there are advantages and disadvantages to these particular combined plans.

By definition, Medicare Advantage Plans are a combined Medicare policy that will take the place of traditional Medicare Part A and B and often Medicare Part D.  These plans are offered by a private insurance company that is approved by Medicare, and have a set monthly premium.  Medicare Advantage plans are not supplemental coverage to traditional Medicare.

Medicare Advantage Plans would cover the traditional healthcare cost that are usually covered by traditional Medicare to your doctors, hospitals, and pharmacy.  In many cases you may also purchase additional coverage to include vision, dental, and hearing.  However, keep in mind that additional coverage equals additional premiums. 

There are a few disadvantages to this type of plan.  Here are a few questions you should consider before choosing a policy: 

·    Are you required to choose a physician that accepts, and participates, in Medicare Advantage Plans?

·    Are you required to have referrals to specialists, outpatient or radiology services?

·    Does the policy have a flat copay for physician services, or is there a deductible and coinsurance?
·    What does the prescription policy cover?  Is there a mail-order supply company offered?

·    Am I locked into the policy for a specific amount of time before I can change back to traditional Medicare or switch to a different policy?

·    Am I purchasing this policy from a reputable company with actual patient reviews of their product?

·    Is there a limit on how much this policy will pay out in one year?

There are many more questions that need to be considered before you make such an important decision for your healthcare needs.  The point of this blog is to get you thinking about your current healthcare situation, policy, as well as your future needs.  Take time, ask questions, and get multiple quotes for coverage. 

DEDUCTIBLES: What to Expect January 1st

There are many concerns regarding the cost of healthcare these days. Now it is more important than ever to know the details of your policy and formulate a budget for your healthcare needs. The Arthritis and Infusion Center understands that healthcare language can often be confusing. We have compiled a few of the most commonly used terms that refer to healthcare insurance policies.

Healthcare definitions according to the Medicare website: 

• Assignment - An agreement by your doctor, other health care provider, or supplier to be paid directly by Medicare, to accept the payment amount Medicare approves for the service, and not to bill you for any more than the Medicare deductible and coinsurance.
•  Coinsurance - An amount you may be required to pay as your share of the cost for services after you pay any deductibles. Coinsurance is usually a percentage (for example, 20%).
• Deductible - The amount you must pay for health care or prescriptions before Original Medicare, your prescription drug plan, or your other insurance begins to pay.
• Medically Necessary - Services or supplies that are needed for the diagnosis or treatment of your medical condition and meet accepted standards of medical practice.
• Medicare Approved Amount - In Original Medicare, this is the amount a doctor or supplier that accepts assignment can be paid. It may be less than the actual amount a doctor or supplier charges. Medicare pays part of this amount and you’re responsible for the difference. 

Typically deductibles renew on January 1st each year. In other words, the slate is wiped clean from the previous year and you are required to pay your annual deductible again. Keep in mind, when making your healthcare budget, often deductibles and coinsurance will be collected at the same time from your provider until the annual deductible is satisfied. Be prepared, before your office visit, with the necessary monetary means to satisfy your obligations at the time of the service.

The Arthritis and Infusion Center is ready to help. If you are unsure of your policy’s deductibles or coinsurance, give us a call and we will be more than happy to help you determine this information. An informed patient is a happy patient.

Why is arthritis worse when it gets cold?

Fortunately, in Northwest Florida, we don’t experience a really harsh winter; however, arthritis flares when the weather is cold and/or damp – and both of these extremes are often experienced within tropical storms or with winter temps that dip down, sometimes, to below freezing.  Arthritis causes stiffness, pain, and swelling of the joints.  Cold temperatures tend to make muscles contract, which puts more pressure on joints that may already be hurting.

            Even though you may be tempted to cloister yourself inside a warm house during the winter, Arthritis Today magazine advises just the opposite!  Here are a few tips they suggest:

• Stay warm and dry – you may want to equip your home with a dehumidifier.
• Stay active – exercise helps keep joints moving.
• Get help – Dr. Hulon Crayton encourages his patients to see him regularly during the winter months.
• Keep to your diet – Diets, during the winter, tend to be fat-building, but it is important to maintain a healthy diet throughout the winter -- and -- year!

Remember this:  Pain is NOT normal!  Let the experts at The Arthritis and Infusion Center help with your arthritis symptoms in winter … spring … summer … and fall.  We’re here for you regardless of the season of life you’re in!

GETTING the MOST from Your FIRST Appointment: Getting Comfortable

At The Arthritis and Infusion Center we understand that coming to your first appointment with Dr. Crayton (or to any medical appointment for that matter), can be very nerve racking.  In fact, some people even experience a rise in blood pressure, which is often humorously referred to as “White Coat Syndrome”.  However, our team of healthcare professionals does not want your visit to our practice to be anything but a very positive experience.  In our previous two blogs, What Should I Bring? and Notes and Medicine Bottles, that discussed Getting the MOST from Your FIRST Appointment, we explained how to prepare ahead of time with your paperwork.  Now, we suggest the following. 

• As previously suggested, bring your physician’s order with you.
• Dress in loose, comfortable clothing.
• Take all your regular medications, unless your referring doctor prescribes otherwise.
• Plan ahead of time by allowing enough time to complete the necessary radiology and/or diagnostic exams and/or treatments.
• Arrange for transportation, if needed.



If you are coming for an Infusion, we suggest that you wear comfortable, layered clothing that you can adjust in case you become overly warm or cool.  Bring along an extra sweater or blanket to have handy.  To pass the time, you may want to bring:

• Games
• Reading material
• Handwork (knitting, crocheting)
• MP3 Player (We offer WiFi & headphones)
• You can also use the time for meditation.

Perhaps the most important thing you can bring is a smile and a positive attitude, knowing that you are in good hands at The Arthritis and Infusion Center.  And don’t forget:  “Pain is not normal.  Let us help!”

GETTING the MOST from Your FIRST Appointment: What Should I Bring?

At The Arthritis and Infusion Center, we want your first appointment to be a pleasant as possible.  Therefore we request that you bring the following information with you:

• Medical Records – Knowing your medical history and what care you have previously received (hospitalizations, office visits, treatments) helps us with compiling a more thorough medical history.
• Referring Physician Information – Although you do not have to be referred by another physician to see Dr. Crayton, we may want to consult with the physician who may have referred you to our practice.  Please bring addresses, with phone/fax number of your primary care and referring physicians to your first appointment.
• Medications – As we mentioned in our previous blog post, knowing what medications you are taking is important.  Please bring all bottles with you.
• X-rays -- If possible, please bring any actual x-ray films related to your condition. 
• Insurance pre-authorization form and an ID card – Your healthcare insurance coverage may have been discussed before you arrive, but please bring your health insurance ID card, along with a photo ID, such as a driver’s license.

For more information, new patient forms, driving directions and more visit our Patient Center.

This information is very important to ensure the most prompt and thorough care of you – our patient.  And remember, “Pain is not normal.  Let us help.”

GETTING the MOST from Your FIRST Appointment: Bring Notes & Medicine Bottles

About a week before you go to your first appointment with Dr. Hulon Crayton, start preparing for your visit with this experienced Rheumatologist.  Do a self-assessment of the exact spots of your aches and pains, along with making notes as to any physical limitations these areas may cause you.  For instance, can you pick up things easily and carry them from one place to another?  Can you do basic chores around house?  Then, during your first visit, Dr. Crayton will be taking a full medical history, so you need to provide information regarding any family history of you condition.  In addition, he will need to know about surgical procedures you’ve undergone or allergies you may have.  It is also extremely helpful for you to bring in ALL the medicine bottles you currently take, which includes over-the-counter pills, vitamins, as well as all prescriptions.  At The Arthritis and Infusion Center, a large portion of our very personalized service includes educating our patients.  By looking at your medicine bottles, it helps us make certain of the spelling of your meds, since many medicines sound similar in pronunciation.  Plus, we need to know the directions other physicians have been giving you as to dosage, etc., so that we can make certain Dr. Crayton prescribes the correct treatment plan for you to follow.  Your healthcare is truly a team effort, and you are at the very center of the team!  Remember:  “Pain is not normal.  Let us help.”

Visit the Arthritis and Infusion Center's Patient Center!

Debunking Myths ... Arthritis Style

           It doesn’t take you long on the Internet to find some pretty amazing “natural” cures to what ails you -- from apple cider vinegar for gout to gin-soaked raisins for arthritis.  What took us on this quest for “knowledge” was a patient telling us that her mother used a well-known greasing agent (that uses letters and numbers in its name brand) to give her relief from joint pain.  We were appalled, but did our own research and found that it was, indeed, a pretty common MYTH.  Unfortunately, using this greasing agent can not only dry out your skin, but it can also have cumulative harmful effects due to the kerosene it contains.  Therefore, we strongly encourage you to call us to 1) get a proper diagnosis for your Rheumatological condition, and then 2) understand that more medications have been discovered in the last 10 years for arthritis, and its associated conditions, than in the last 100 years!  We do understand that there are some herbs and natural compounds that may give you relief from your pain, but wouldn’t you rather be safe than sorry?  Call us today, because – Pain is not normal! And, The Arthritis and Infusion Center can help! 

Venus Williams diagnosed with Sjorgen's Syndrome

In late August, The New York Times reported that Venus Williams exited the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center due to a diagnosis of Sjogren’s Syndrome.  Originally thought to be a viral illness in Ms. Williams, The Arthritis Foundation advises that “This autoimmune condition involves more than just chronic dry eyes and mouth – it can affect other organs and systems as well.  Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, rashes on the arms and legs, and inflammation of tiny blood vessels.  The lungs, liver, and kidneys may become inflamed; some people develop tingling and numbness in the limbs because of neurological involvement.”  Dr. Hulon Crayton, of The Arthritis and Infusion Center, is the longest-tenured Rheumatologist in this region who is well versed in the treatment of not only Sjogren’s Syndrome, but Dr. Crayton has a broad range of exposure to all manifestations of Rheumatological diseases.  While a diagnosis of Sjogren’s Syndrome is not life threatening, unfortunately (to date), there is no cure.  The Arthritis and Infusion Center has the most current information regarding this condition, and the sooner you address the symptoms, the sooner you can manage this condition. Remember the theme of The Arthritis and Infusion Center:  Pain is not normal.  Let The Arthritis and Infusion Center help!©

“The Silent Killer” … Another Name for Osteoporosis

Unfortunately, elderly patients with osteoporosis are the most vulnerable for compression fractures, which are broken bones of the spine. This fracture normally occurs with osteoporosis, but could also be caused from trauma to the back or tumors in the bone.

Symptoms of Compression Fractures, which cause severe back pain, usually occur in the mid to lower part of the spine. Our patients have described “shooting” pains that are aggravated by walking and a stooped posture.

The tests that are recommended for Compression Fractures include a bone density test to evaluate the osteoporosis that may be present, followed by a CT or MRI scan if there is concern that the fracture was caused by the trauma or tumors (mentioned above).

Fortunately, treatment is available and healing can occur over eight to ten weeks. There are medications available to treat osteoporosis, which can help prevent future fractures, but when vertebrae have already collapsed, treatment cannot reverse the fracture.

Immediately contact Dr. Crayton at The Arthritis and Infusion Center if you have back pain and think you may have experienced a compression fracture. The sooner you seek medical help, the faster we can ease your pain and get to the bottom of what is causing your discomfort. Remember our slogan: “Pain is not normal. Let us help.”

Fatigue Got You Down?

Are you CONSTANTLY TIRED?  …

… even after a good night’s sleep?  You could have a vitamin or mineral deficiency, an underactive thyroid, depression, sleep apnea, or your adrenal glands could be overworked. When all other symptoms have been ruled out, you could be suffering from a condition that has been referred to as a “stealth illness” – Fibromyalgia and/or chronic fatigue syndrome.  This condition usually affects more women than men, and there can also be a genetic predisposition.  While some doctors frown on this diagnosis, Dr. Hulon Crayton knows that the symptoms are very real, and blood tests can actually provide significant “markers” regarding an accurate treatment plan.  Jump starting your energy is possible, once you learn the root cause of your condition.  Call our office today to discuss your symptoms and how The Arthritis and Infusion Center can assist with a better quality of life for you or someone you love.  Remember:  Pain is not normal.  Let us help!   

The Low Down "Low T"

“Low T” … a term all males dread, because the “t” in this term refers to testosterone, and when this hormone is low, it can cause a variety of issues for men. 

This condition can be suspected when the man experiences a loss of energy, depression (from mild to severe), thinning of bones (osteoporosis), muscle weakness, and a disinterest in sex.  Unfortunately, men are less likely than women to be evaluated for osteoporosis, and that is indeed unfortunate.  Osteoporosis (in both males and females) increases the risk of hip fracture – known to be a leading cause of mortality rates during the first year.  It only stands to reason that a screen for low testosterone, and the associated osteoporosis, should be the first step towards a better quality of life when “Low T” is first suspected based on the symptoms listed above.

So what causes “Low T”?  Trauma to the testicles from medical conditions (like mumps), old sports injuries, tumors, or simply prolonged and severe illnesses can cause this condition.  Most men begin to lose testosterone levels, as a normal course, beginning at about the age of 60, but there is a very simple blood test that can easily diagnose this condition.

Then what?  Fortunately, there are skin applications, patches, and medical science is always studying better ways to treat this troublesome condition through biological therapy.

So what should you do if you feel as if you are experiencing “Low T”?  Contact The Arthritis and Infusion Center to begin the screening process.  Peace of mind is as close as your telephone, and the prevention of fracture could even make your call a life saving one.  873-6748 will take you to the appropriate medical practice to determine if you are experiencing “Low T”.   Why wait?  Contact us today!

Investing In Your Health

At The Arthritis and Infusion Center, we understand that any pain is not normal.  However, diagnosing the source of pain – especially with rheumatoid arthritis symptoms – isn’t always easy.  That’s why Dr. Hulon Crayton has made it a point to invest in the most up-to-date diagnostic tools in order to determine the origins of the diseases he treats.

For instance, our Dexa Scan equipment provides Bone Density Studies, which determine how likely you are to fracture bones.  The scan is fast, accurate, pain-free, and has very low radiation.  This information is particularly important to those patients who may lean towards osteoporosis.

           

Ultrasonography is now appreciated as a valuable tool for diagnosis monitoring and intervention in Rheumatology.  This current technology actually allows Dr. Crayton to look closely into your body, specifically your joints and muscles, to determine the origin of pain and swelling.  We have found this to be especially helpful in detecting rotator cuff and meniscus tears, rheumatoid arthritis, and other arthritis or soft tissue conditions.

Finally, we are very excited about our equipment that enables us to do Nerve Conduction Studies.  A nerve conduction study (NCS) is a test commonly used to evaluate the function, especially the ability of electrical conduction, of the motor and sensory nerves of the human body.  The results of the NCS provide good indicators of underlying diseases in the nervous system.  Patients suffering from arthritis symptoms will find this study to be particularly helpful.

Of course, within our Infusion Center, we continuously upgrade our equipment to make certain that your experience is as painless and stress-free as possible.

Remember:  Pain is not normal, and when you begin to experience pain in your muscles and joints, it’s time to contact The Arthritis and Infusion Center in Panama City, Florida.

Start Collecting Your Own Library of Resource Information

Every person who suffers from rheumatological diseases should take an active role in their treatment plan.  The Arthritis and Infusion Center has found the following links to be very helpful to patients we have treated.  We would like to suggest that you begin an archive of these sources on your person computer:

www.arthritistoday.org

www.arthritis.org/chapters/florida/

www.rheumatology.org

www.everydayhealth.com/psoriatic-arthritis

www.fda.gov

www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info

www.lupus.org

If you have found other sites that have been beneficial to you – our patient – please provide that information to us.  TOGETHER we can work towards better outcomes in treatment and therapy if we stay abreast of the most recent scientific discoveries.  Just remember our slogan:  “Pain is not normal.”  Contact us to determine what’s at the root of your pain and how we can work together to provide a better quality of life for you (or someone you love).

Fitness and Arthritis

There is a disclaimer that every person is familiar with:  “Before starting any exercise routine, always contact your physician.”  This article encourages you to see Dr. Crayton before you begin an exercise program; however, even The Arthritis Foundation acknowledges that an exercise program improves the symptoms of this dreaded disease.

“When arthritis causes pain and fatigue, beginning and sticking with an exercise program can be a challenge.  But a new study confirms that doing so can pay off.  Led by Leigh F. Callahan, of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, N.C., the study involved 346 patients with an average age of 70 who had self-reported arthritis.  The participants were divided into two groups: an intervention group that took part in the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (formerly known as People with Arthritis Can Exercise, or PACE), which consisted of exercise classes at basic and advanced levels that met for an hour twice weekly for eight weeks, and a control group that was offered the program after eight weeks.  The researchers measured pain, stiffness, and fatigue using visual analog scales, tools that help patients rate the intensity of sensations.  Physical function was evaluated by using self-reporting as well as performance-based measures such as lifting weights, and psychosocial outcomes were assessed using four different scales.

“The results showed that the intervention group had significant improvements in pain, fatigue, and managing arthritis at eight weeks and maintained improvements in pain and fatigue at six months.”

That said, know this:  Exercise Is Good Medicine!  And for the arthritis sufferer, there should be several goals to an exercise program:

• Increase energy
• Ease osteoarthritis pain
• Reduce fibromyalgia pain and fatigue
• Relieve depression
• Maintain weight
• Prevent osteoporosis or reduce bone loss

Exercise routines should include mild, moderate, and vigorous activity.  However, depending on the type of arthritis you are experiencing – not to mention previous surgeries or injuries you may have experienced – exercise should be specifically designed to your level of age and physical condition.  Dr. Crayton will be more than happy to outline an exercise program expressly designed with YOU in mind.  Plus, doing exercise incorrectly can actually cause further damage to your joints, so seek expert help before you begin to work out through scheduling a consult with Dr. Crayton at The Arthritis and Infusion Center.

Come Inside our INFUSION Center

Walk inside The Infusion Center at 2917 Highway 77, and you immediately sense an environment of calm professionalism, which we believe is important to the treatment process.

What is an infusion?  It’s a standard procedure that delivers a fluid (medication or solution) into a patient’s bloodstream.  The fluid flows from a sterile bag through plastic tubing and a small needle placed into one of the patient’s veins in order to reach the patient’s bloodstream.  This is a common, as well as highly effective, way of administering a medication over a specific period of time.  Getting an infusion feels a little like having blood drawn out of a vein in your arm, except in this case, you’re having fluid put into your body.

All you need to bring to an infusion is a smile and positive attitude.  However, you can do a variety of activities while you are receiving an infusion.  Call us to receive a brochure about our infusion services.

There are many benefits to an OUTPATIENT Infusion Center:

• Physician on site
• Lower cost to the patient (Physician-based infusion centers are typically 60% less than infusions down within hospitals.)
• One-on-one patient care
• No hospital-based Infusion Center or pharmacy wait time.  (Private infusion centers often take less than half the time of hospital-based infusion centers.)
• Expertise:  We have infused thousands of patients and are well equipped without the use of an emergency department.
• Excellent customer service.  We strive for maximum efficiency for our patients’ convenience and safety.
• Insurance pre-certification and verification.  There will be no surprises on your bill!

We’ll be happy to send you more complete information on our infusion services.  Call 873-6748 to learn more.  However, the most important fact to remember is:  We teach patients how to care for themselves during therapy so they can be active participants in their own health care.

Getting to Know Dr. Crayton

If you talk to any one of Dr. Crayton’s loyal patients, they’ll be quite candid in their assessment of what makes him so special, from his “brilliant smile that fills a room,” to his ability to “really listen to what his patients are saying”, which then enables him to accurately diagnose and treat their particular, individual symptoms. 

Dr. Crayton is also one who enjoys a good story, and perhaps his most famous anecdote surrounds the manner in which he relocated to Bay County from Racine, Wisconsin.

“I just started driving south, stopping at hardware stores along the way, and when I came to a store that didn’t sell snow shovels, I knew I was ‘home’,” kidded Dr. Crayton.

After graduating from the University of Wisconsin, Dr. Crayton has been practicing Rheumatology for almost two decades.  He is a diplomat of the American Board of Internal Medicine and of the American Board of Rheumatology.  In addition, Dr. Crayton is the only Rheumatologist in the region who has a Masters Degree in Hospital Administration and, as a true patriot, has served in the U.S. Army as well as the Army Reserve.

In his spare time, Dr. Crayon enjoys playing jazz with the group he helped to establish – “The On Call Band”, and recently debuted his inaugural CD – “First Impressions” – under his stage name, “HULON”.  Interestingly, it was Dr. Crayton’s roommate, during his short stint at Lincoln University prior to entering the University of Wisconsin, who taught him how to play and love jazz, which led to his current success as a musician.

From a civic perspective, Dr. Crayton is a Rotarian who embodies the Rotary theme of “service above self” within his medical practice, as well as with his generous philanthropy.  Dr. Crayton, along with his wife Dinah, created the Crayton Foundation, the sole mission of which is to assist minorities in their quest to attend college.  The first scholarship the husband and wife team endowed was at the Florida State University/Panama City Campus with the Crayton Health Scholarship, specifically for students interested in entering the healthcare field.  Most recently, they established the Crayton Health Sciences Endowed Scholarship within the Lincoln University Foundation, Inc.  As an undergraduate of this historically Black university, Dr. Crayton understood the challenges of minority students.  “Lincoln is very close to my heart since a lot of the faculty was responsible for developing me into the person I became.”

As an avid supporter of the arts in Bay County, Dr. Crayton serves on the Board of the Bay Arts Alliance, and recently sponsored their entire 2010-11 season.  In addition, Dr. Crayton serves on the board of B.A.S.I.C. and has donated a percentage of sales of his CDs to their fundraising efforts.  Dr. and Mrs. Crayton remain actively involved in other area charities and have three children.

LUPUS … “The Great Imitator”

The scientific name is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, usually referred to as “lupus”; however, it is often called “the Great Imitator” because of the multiple symptoms that present in the patient.  Patients may have skin rashes and arthritis as well as fatigue and fever, and most aggravating, the attacks can alternate between periods of activity and when the disease remains dormant.  Lupus, a chronic inflammatory disease, affects the joints, kidneys, and skin; plus,  –  unfortunately, if not treated – lupus can be fatal.

According to The American College of Rheumatology:
• Lupus affects ten (10) times as many women as men.
• Lupus usually develops in people in their 20s and 30s, and often tend towards blacks and Asians.
• Treatment depends on the symptoms and their severity.
• Because it is a complex disease, lupus requires treatment by a rheumatologist and the patient’s active participation in working towards good health.

Patients with lupus typically experience:
• Fever, fatigue, and weight loss
• Arthritis lasting for several weeks in multiple joints
• Butterfly-shaped rash over the cheeks or other rashes
• Skin rash appearing in areas exposed to the sun
• Sores in the mouth or nose lasting for more than a month
• Loss of hair, sometimes in spots or around the hairline
• Seizures, strokes, and mental disorders (depression)
• Blood clots
• Miscarriages
• Blood or protein in the urine or tests that suggest poor kidney function
• Low blood counts (anemia, low white blood cells, or low platelets)

So what causes Lupus?  No one really knows for sure.  Scientists have theorized that people are actually born with the genes to develop lupus, and that something “triggers” the disease.  However, other causes should not be ignored like a combination of genetics/heredity, environment, and hormones.

Once there is a diagnosis … is there help?  YES!  After 50 years, the FDA has recently approved a new drug for lupus that is administered through an infusion.  At The Arthritis and Infusion Center, we provide the medication as well as a comfortable environment in which to rest during the application of the medication. 

Remember this:  Patients with lupus can expect to live normal lives.  However, Dr. Crayton must carefully monitor and treat the disease … and … YOU are equally as important to the treatment process.  We listen, but you decide on what medical road you choose to travel.  Just know: we are here for you.

Step Into a Better Life

The Arthritis and Infusion Center, under the medical leadership of Dr. Hulon Crayton, has redesigned their logo to better reflect the practice of Rheumatology – the specialty of general arthritis care.  People, who have suffered for years with this debilitating disease, will tell you they felt hopelessly confined and depressed … until they found Dr. Crayton.  Our new logo conveys the message that we offer the expectation for a better quality of life through an aggressive treatment plan, and with careful attention to detail, so that patients can step out into a better life with less pain and more optimism for the future.