Is it a stroke?

See if you can spot one F.A.S.T.

Ask someone if they know the warning signs of a heart attack. Chances are, that person may be able to name at least one. The symptoms of a stroke, however, are less familiar.

The American Heart Association (AHA) offers an easy reminder to help us determine if someone is having a stroke. Using letters for the word “FAST” can help us remember what to look for:

• F. Face Drooping: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop or is it numb?
• A. Arm Weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• S. Speech Difficulty: Is the person’s speech slurred? Are they unable to speak? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, such as “the sky is blue.” Is it repeated correctly?
• T. Time for help: If the person shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 immediately to get them to the hospital.

Knee pain. Is it just stiffness or could it be osteoarthritis?

People are living longer these days and staying more active. That’s good news, but it also means more people will need help with joint replacement surgery.

If you’re wondering about the type of pain you’re feeling, here are some things to consider. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that leads to the breakdown and eventual loss of joint cartilage. That allows bones under the cartilage to rub together and cause pain.

Weight loss surgery: Could it be right for you?

If you’ve always wondered about weight loss surgery, this could be the year to check it out.

Bariatric surgery can help people live longer, healthier lives, especially those who have struggled with weight loss for years.

Studies show that bariatric surgery can improve many weight-related health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure) and sleep apnea.

In addition, weight problems can lead to many life-threatening illnesses, such as heart disease, joint disease, infertility, or even feelings of isolation or depression.

Welcome: Praveena Basetty, M.D.

Praveena Basetty, M.D.,
a specialist in nephrology 

Dr. Praveena Basetty

Dr. Basetty received her medical degree from the Ranagaraya Medical College in Andhra Pradesh, India. She completed her residency in internal medicine at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak and a fellowship in nephrology at St. John Hospital in Detroit. She practices with:

St. Clair Specialty Physicians
22201 Moross, Suite 150
Professional Building 2
Detroit, MI 48226

telephone: (313) 886-8787
fax: (313) 886-8084


St. Clair Specialty Physicians
45640 Schoenherr
Shelby Township, MI 48315

telephone: (586) 247-4300
fax: (586) 247-8904.

Welcome: Chirag Popat, M.D.

Chirag Popat, M.D.,
a specialist in internal medicine

Dr. Chirag Popat

Dr. Popat received his medical degree from the M.S. University of Baroda in India. He completed a residency in internal medicine at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Paterson, New Jersey and a fellowship in sleep medicine at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. He is board certified in internal medicine. Dr. Popat practices at:

McLaren Macomb Internal Medicine & Health
37399 Garfield, Suite 106
Clinton Township, Michigan 48036

telephone: (586) 226-3500
fax: (586) 226-3600

Welcome: Erin M. Baker, D.O.

Erin M. Baker, D.O.,
a family medicine specialist 

Dr. Erin Baker

Dr. Baker received her medical degree from the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her internship and residency in family practice medicine at McLaren Oakland. She practices at:

McLaren Macomb Sterling Heights
Pediatrics and Family Medicine
35111 Dodge Park
Sterling Heights, MI 48312

telephone: (586) 978-8010
fax (586) 978-9075

Start the New Year off heart-smart

Resolutions. We make them and break them all too quickly.

But here’s one that’s worth trying: This year, start slowly and aim for a few healthy choices that will improve your health in 2014.

Learn more about weight management here.

Physicians and nutrition experts remind us – steer clear of the quick diet fads. They’re too easily abandoned. Instead, focus on healthier eating and finding the time for more exercise.