Author: Winneshiek Medical Center

Expert Insight from Michael D’Netto, M.D.

Many people experience unpleasant reactions to certain foods—but not all of them are true allergies. Understanding the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment, and safety.

What Is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy is an immune system response. When someone with a food allergy eats even a small amount of the offending food, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as harmful and releases chemicals like histamine. This can cause symptoms such as:

• Hives or rash
• Swelling of the lips, face, or throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Vomiting or diarrhea

Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, shellfish, soy, wheat, and sesame. 

“Food allergies can be life-threatening and require strict avoidance and emergency preparedness,” says Michael D’Netto, M.D., a Mayo Clinic Health System board-certified allergist and immunologist at WinnMed in Decorah. “Patients with a history of food allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g. Epi Pen) at all times.”

What Is a Food Intolerance?

A food intolerance, on the other hand, does not involve the immune system. It typically affects the digestive system and occurs when the body has difficulty processing certain foods. Symptoms may include:

• Bloating
• Gas
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea

Lactose intolerance is a common example, caused by a deficiency in the enzyme lactase. 

“Food intolerances are uncomfortable but not dangerous,” Dr. D’Netto explains. “They can often be managed by adjusting the diet or in the cast of lactose intolerance, by using enzyme supplements.”

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you suspect a reaction to food, consult an allergist. Skin testing, blood tests, and elimination diets can help determine whether it’s an allergy or intolerance. Dr. D’Netto emphasizes that accurate diagnosis is key to avoiding unnecessary dietary restrictions and ensuring safety.

Make an appointment

Dr. D’Netto is accepting new patients at WinnMed in Decorah.  Call WinnMed at 563-382-2911 or request an appointment online through WinnMed’s online portal, MyChart.

Expert Insight from Michael D’Netto, M.D.

Asthma and environmental allergies are often linked—but they are not the same. Understanding the difference is key to managing symptoms and getting the right treatment.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs. It causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as:

• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Coughing, especially at night or during exercise 

Asthma can be triggered by a variety of factors, including respiratory infections, cold air, exercise, and allergens like pollen or pet dander.

What Are Environmental Allergies?

Environmental allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to a harmless substance—such as pollen, dust mites or pet dander — by releasing chemicals like histamine. This can cause:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy eyes or skin

In some people, allergies can also trigger asthma symptoms. This is known as allergic asthma. 

How Are They Connected?

“Allergies and asthma often go hand in hand,” explainsMichael D’Netto, M.D., a Mayo Clinic Health System board-certified allergist and immunologist at WinnMed in Decorah. “In fact, many people with asthma have allergic triggers. Identifying and treating those allergies can significantly improve asthma control.”

Diagnosis and Treatment

An allergist can perform skin or blood tests to identify allergy triggers and determine if asthma is allergy-related. Treatment may include:

• Inhalers for asthma control
• Antihistamines or nasal sprays for allergies
• Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) to reduce sensitivity over time 

If you experience symptoms of asthma or allergies, talk to your provider about a referral to Dr. D’Netto for a personalized evaluation and treatment plan.

Make an appointment

Dr. D’Netto is accepting new patients at WinnMed in Decorah.  Call WinnMed at 563-382-2911 or request an appointment online through WinnMed’s online portal, MyChart.

WinnMed is pleased to welcome Decorah native Dailen Folkedahl, D.O., to its medical team. Dr. Folkedahl provides family medicine care for patients of all ages in the clinic setting and also serves as a hospitalist, caring for inpatients during their hospital stay.

Dr. Folkedahl earned her medical degree from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in Biddeford, Maine, and completed her residency through the Genesis Quad Cities Family Medicine Residency Program in Davenport, Iowa. She is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and has special interests in women’s health, diabetes care, and community health. Dr. Folkedahl enjoys time with her family, traveling and walking her dog, Finnley.

“I believe that building strong relationships with my patients starts with truly listening,” said Dr. Folkedahl. “I prioritize open communication and take the time to get to know each individual. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to support their wellness and long-term health.”

Family medicine, also known as primary care, is a medical specialty dedicated to providing comprehensive and continuous care for individuals and families of all ages, genders, and health conditions. Family medicine providers serve as the first point of contact for patients, playing a vital role in preventive care, chronic disease management, and overall wellness. By building long-term relationships, they ensure personalized care and coordinate with specialists when needed. At WinnMed, nearly 25 physicians and advanced practice providers deliver primary care services in Decorah, as well as in outreach locations including Ossian, Mabel and campus clinics at Luther College and Upper Iowa University, serving the college population.

To make an appointment with Dr. Folkedahl, call 563-382-2911 or request an appointment through MyChart.

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WinnMed is pleased to welcome Ryan Novak, M.D., to its medical team in Decorah, where he will provide expert urologic care to patients of all ages. Dr. Novak joins Ericka Moudry, PA-C, in the urology practice, expanding access to high-quality, compassionate care for the region.

He specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions of the urinary tract and male reproductive system, including prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support.

Dr. Novak is a board-certified urologist with a strong background in clinical, surgical and pharmaceutical care. He first earned his pharmacy degree from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, then continued at the same university to receive his medical degree, completing it in 2008. He then completed his internship in General Surgery and residency in Urology at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. He has practiced in Minnesota, and most recently two years in Hawaii, before returning to the Midwest to settle into the Decorah community with his wife and three sons, where they look forward to fishing, biking and enjoying the amenities northeast Iowa offers.

Dr. Novak says, “My goal is to improve the urologic health of our community by educating patients about their conditions and empowering them to take an active role in their care. I believe in shared decision-making and strive to provide the best possible outcomes by carefully balancing the risks and benefits of each treatment option. Clear and timely communication of results is also a priority, ensuring patients feel informed and supported every step of the way.”

Urology at WinnMed offers comprehensive, patient-centered care for both men and women. Whenever appropriate, minimally invasive techniques are used to ensure excellent outcomes with shorter recovery times.

Dr. Novak says, “I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, both in and out of the hospital, which has shaped how I connect with patients today. Growing up in Austin, Minnesota, I supported my education by working on hog and dairy farms and later spent summers in factories in Faribault. At the University of Minnesota, I served as an academic tutor and provided transportation for students and faculty with disabilities. I’ve also worked as a phlebotomist and pharmacist in both inpatient and outpatient settings during medical school. These experiences have helped me better understand people from all walks of life and communicate with patients in a way that’s respectful, relatable, and effective.”

To make an appointment with WinnMed Urology, call 563-382-2911 or request an appointment through MyChart

WinnMed is pleased to welcome Ryan Novak, M.D., to its medical team in Decorah, where he will provide expert urologic care to patients of all ages. Dr. Novak joins Ericka Moudry, PA-C, in the urology practice, expanding access to high-quality, compassionate care for the region.

He specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions of the urinary tract and male reproductive system, including prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support.

Dr. Novak is a board-certified urologist with a strong background in clinical, surgical and pharmaceutical care. He first earned his pharmacy degree from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, then continued at the same university to receive his medical degree, completing it in 2008. He then completed his internship in General Surgery and residency in Urology at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. He has practiced in Minnesota, and most recently two years in Hawaii, before returning to the Midwest to settle into the Decorah community with his wife and three sons, where they look forward to fishing, biking and enjoying the amenities northeast Iowa offers.

Dr. Novak says, “My goal is to improve the urologic health of our community by educating patients about their conditions and empowering them to take an active role in their care. I believe in shared decision-making and strive to provide the best possible outcomes by carefully balancing the risks and benefits of each treatment option. Clear and timely communication of results is also a priority, ensuring patients feel informed and supported every step of the way.”

Urology at WinnMed offers comprehensive, patient-centered care for both men and women. Whenever appropriate, minimally invasive techniques are used to ensure excellent outcomes with shorter recovery times.

Dr. Novak says, “I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, both in and out of the hospital, which has shaped how I connect with patients today. Growing up in Austin, Minnesota, I supported my education by working on hog and dairy farms and later spent summers in factories in Faribault. At the University of Minnesota, I served as an academic tutor and provided transportation for students and faculty with disabilities. I’ve also worked as a phlebotomist and pharmacist in both inpatient and outpatient settings during medical school. These experiences have helped me better understand people from all walks of life and communicate with patients in a way that’s respectful, relatable, and effective.”

To make an appointment with WinnMed Urology, call 563-382-2911 or request an appointment through MyChart

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Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is expanding at WinnMed with a second orthopedic surgeon, James Voigtlander, M.D. Dr. Voigtlander is joining Emily Connor, M.D., Jesse Butler, PA-C and John Evelsizer Olson, PA-C one week each month to provide additional access to clinical and surgical orthopedic care to patients of all ages.

Hailing from California, Dr. Voigtlander recently retired from serving as an orthopedist and in leadership roles for Kaiser-Permanente in Roseville/Sacramento, California, and currently provides orthopedic care to veterans at the VA Hospital in Sacramento, California. He earned his medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana and completed his residency year and internship in orthopedics from U.C. Davis School of Medicine in Sacramento. Dr. Voigtlander is board certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery.

Dr Voigtlander says, “I’ve been practicing Adult and Pediatric Orthopedic surgery for 33 years with special interests in joint replacements, trauma, wound care, and reconstructive surgery. At WinnMed, my practice will include surgical and non-surgical musculoskeletal care and covering on-call referrals. Our orthopedic team will cover any questions or concerns when I am not immediately available.”

Orthopedics and Sports Medicine at WinnMed specializes in surgical hip, knee and shoulder replacements; arthroscopic (scope) surgery of the knee, ankle and shoulder; sports medicine, hand surgery, pediatric surgery; and fracture and trauma care for all ages. They work with orthopedic patients to prevent, diagnose, and treat disorders of the musculoskeletal system, including: bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.

Dr. Voigtlander says, “I was introduced to this unique opportunity through mutual acquaintances and connections. Though I officially retired from full-time orthopedic surgery, I look forward to serving in new roles and locations, meeting new people and supporting patients and practices in meaningful ways.”

To make an appointment with WinnMed Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, call 563-382-2911 or request an appointment through MyChart.

In a mutually strategic decision, WinnMed and Keystone Area Education Agency (AEA) have reached an agreement for WinnMed to purchase the Keystone building located at the corner of Montgomery Street and Ridgewood Drive in Decorah. The acquisition supports WinnMed’s growing service lines and administrative needs while aligning with Keystone AEA’s goal of reducing its owned physical footprint.

The WinnMed Board of Trustees approved the proposal during its May 7 meeting. Following this, Keystone AEA initiated the formal sale process, including a public hearing, and finalized the agreement at its June 16 Board of Directors meeting.

WinnMed will officially take possession of the building on July 1, 2025. As part of the agreement, Keystone AEA will lease one floor of the building to continue its local operations without disruption. WinnMed will utilize the remaining space to accommodate future expansion.

“This property stood out to us for several reasons,” said Steve Slessor, chief administrative officer, WinnMed. “Its proximity to our main campus, the existing office-ready infrastructure, and the opportunity to lease space back to Keystone AEA under a long-term agreement made it an ideal fit. Additionally, our newest parking lot borders the property, making integration seamless.”

Slessor also addressed public interest regarding WinnMed’s recent land donation to Sunflower for its new childcare center. “While it may seem contradictory to donate land to the south and purchase property to the north, the Sunflower site would have required significant investment to develop. The land donation to Sunflower supported a critical community childcare need and made the donation a meaningful and practical decision. Meanwhile, the Keystone building enhances our northern footprint, where infrastructure is already in place to support our operations.”

Keystone AEA Chief Administrator Stan Rheingans noted, “The sale of our Decorah facility to nearby WinnMed represents a mutually beneficial arrangement including a long-term lease allowing our traditional services to continue with minimal disruption. We see this partnership with WinnMed as a valuable step forward for both organizations.”

WinnMed is proud to announce the launch of rheumatology specialty care, expanding access to expert treatment for joint, muscle, and autoimmune conditions in northeast Iowa and southeast Minnesota. This new service line is led by Matthew Samec, M.D., a board-certified rheumatologist providing full-time care at WinnMed in Decorah beginning July 2025.

Rheumatology focuses on diagnosing and treating complex, often chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, osteoporosis, and other disorders that affect the joints, muscles, and immune system.

A native of New Hampton, Dr. Samec brings both personal and professional ties to the region. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Northern Iowa and his medical degree from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. He completed his internal medicine residency and rheumatology fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. Since 2023, Dr. Samec has been providing rheumatology care, and he is a Fellow of the American College of Rheumatology.

“Rheumatologic diseases are complex, chronic, and often difficult to diagnose,” says Dr. Samec. “Given the shortage of rheumatologists — especially in northeast Iowa — I’m committed to serving not only local residents but also patients from across the region. I’ll be working closely with primary care providers to ensure patients receive the best possible care.

At WinnMed, rheumatology services include personalized treatment plans, advanced diagnostics, and compassionate care for patients at every stage of their journey. Whether someone is newly diagnosed or has been managing symptoms for years, they now have access to expert care in a familiar, local setting.

“We’re thrilled to offer rheumatology care right here in Decorah,” says Thomas Marquardt, D.P.M., chief medical officer at WinnMed. “Many people live with chronic joint pain or autoimmune conditions without realizing that effective treatments are available. Our goal is to help patients feel better, move better, and live better — without the burden of long-distance travel.”

Dr. Samec adds, “My family and I are excited to return to northeast Iowa. My wife and I both graduated from New Hampton High School, and our families still live in the area. We’re looking forward to raising our children in a community that has so much to offer and means so much to us.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Matthew Samec at WinnMed, call 563-382-2911 or request an appointment through MyChart.