When Is a Fever an Emergency?

A fever is a temporary rise in body temperature. A fever by itself is not an illness, but a symptom of a range of medical conditions and part of an overall response by the body’s immune system, usually caused by an infection. Fevers can also be a side effect of some medications.  

Fevers are broadly categorized as low-grade, moderate-grade, high-grade, and hyperpyrexia. 

Low-grade fever is an oral temperature of 99.1°F to 100.4°F (37.3°C to 38°C) in adults. Symptoms of a low-grade fever include: 

  • Headache  
  • Feeling hot 
  • Achy eyes 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Thirst  

Moderate fever is an oral temperature of 100.6°F to 102.2°F (38.1°C to 39°C) in adults. Symptoms of a moderate-grade fever are like those of a low-grade fever, but also include: 

  • Muscle and body aches 
  • Fatigue 
  • Sweating 
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness 
  • Nausea  

High-grade fever is an oral temperature of 102.4°F to 105.8°F (39.1°C to 41°C) in adults. Symptoms of a high-grade fever are like those of a low-grade and moderate-grade fever, but also include: 

  • Increased heart rate 
  • Chills and shivering 
  • Upset stomach 
  • Extreme weakness 
  • Vomiting 
  • Decreased urination 

Hyperpyrexia is an extremely high fever of over 106.7°F (41.5°C). 

Symptoms of hyperpyrexia include: 

  • Hallucinations 
  • Extreme confusion 
  • Rapid but weak heartbeat 
  • Loss of consciousness 
  • Shallow, rapid breathing 
  • Dilated pupils 
  • Seizures 
  • Hot, dry, red skin 
  • Inability to urinate 

Fevers, such as low-grade fevers, don’t always require a hospital visit, as they often improve with medication and home care. However, moderate- or high-grade fever can be dangerous, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. If your fever reaches 105°F (40.5°C), seek medical attention immediately. 

Adults should seek care from their healthcare provider if: 

  • They have a fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher 
  • They are over 65 years of age or immunocompromised, and their fever is higher than 101°F (38.3°C) 
  • They have swelling or severe pain anywhere in their body 
  • They have a stiff neck 
  • They have trouble breathing 

For infants and young children, it is smart to be cautious and seek medical care if their symptoms are concerning, regardless of the temperature reading on the thermometer. You should take your child to receive medical care if: 

  • Your child is three to 12 months and has a fever of 102.2°F (39°C) 
  • Your child is younger than three months and has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher 
  • Your child is older than 12 months and has a fever above 104°F (40°C) 
  • Your child is under the age of two and has a fever that has lasted longer than 24 hours 
  • Your child is over the age of two and has a fever that has lasted longer than three days 
  • Your child’s symptoms are getting worse 
  • Your child still appears to be sick after taking fever-reducing medication 
  • A child who has not had immunizations or did not get timely immunizations with a temperature of 100.4°F or above 

There are several ways to reduce a fever, such as over-the-counter fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, resting and drinking plenty of fluids, and taking a lukewarm bath. 

If you or your child is experiencing moderate- or high-grade fever symptoms, you can schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Employee Spotlight Shines on Danny Agpalo

This month, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center shines its Employee Spotlight on Danny Agpalo, a Patient Care Associate (PCA).

Danny has been employed at the hospital for 31 years. He was the first Patient Care Associate hired and trained at the hospital. He began his career on Psych 2, then the Traumatic Brain Injury unit, and subsequently the Wound Care Division. Danny has earned the Going the Extra Mile (GEM) Award twice.

Danny grew up in the Philippines where he attended elementary school and high school. Upon coming to New York in June of 1995, he enrolled in Queens Borough Community College and York College studying Occupational Therapy and Nursing.

Danny currently resides in Queens. He has one daughter who is 28 years old. In his free time he enjoys gardening. Danny likes to spend his vacation visiting different countries in Asia. Japan is his favorite country and he hopes to return there again. Danny likes to eat different types of food and always strives to make healthy choices. One of his favorite types of food is Italian.  The sport that interests him the most is martial arts. At one time he trained in Tae Kwon Do.

Danny enjoys working at Jamaica Hospital because there is great team work with his colleagues. Giving excellent care to his patients is his priority and seeing good results gives him great satisfaction. We look forward to Danny continuing to work with us for many more years.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the measles virus. It can affect anyone, but it is most common in children. 

There are many risk factors for measles, including: 

  • Being unvaccinated 
  • Traveling internationally 
  • Having a Vitamin A deficiency 

Measles infects the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body. Signs and symptoms of measles appear around 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus, and can include: 

  • Fever 
  • Dry cough 
  • Runny nose 
  • Sore throat 
  • Inflamed eyes 
  • Koplik’s spots (tiny white spots with bluish-white centers on a red background, which form on the inner lining of the cheek) 
  • A skin rash made up of large, flat blotches that often flow into one another 

The infection occurs in stages that span over two to three weeks. These stages include: 

  • Infection and incubation- the measles virus spreads in the body for 10 to 14 days after infection. During that time, there are no signs or symptoms 
  • Nonspecific signs and symptoms: measles typically begin with a mild to moderate fever, a persistent cough, a runny nose, inflamed eyes, and a sore throat. This mild illness can last two to three days 
  • Acute illness and rash- a measles rash can consist of small red spots, with some that may be slightly raised. Spots and bumps in tight clusters give the skin a splotchy red appearance. The face is usually the first place it appears. The rash spreads to the arms, chest, and back, then over the thighs, lower legs, and feet over the next few days. At the same time, the fever rises to temperatures as high as 104 to 105.8 
  • Recovery- the measles rash can last for about seven days. The rash fades gradually from the face and lastly the thighs and feet. As other symptoms go away, coughing and the darkening or peeling of the skin where the rash was last about 10 days 

When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, infectious droplets spray into the air where others can breathe them in. Infectious droplets can stay in the air for about an hour and on a surface for several hours. A person with measles can spread the virus to others for about eight days. Starting four days before the rash appears and ends when the rash has been present for four days. 

Many complications can arise from measles, including: 

  • Diarrhea and vomiting 
  • Ear infection 
  • Bronchitis, laryngitis, or croup 
  • Pneumonia 
  • Encephalitis 
  • Pregnancy problems 

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children and adults receive the measles vaccine to prevent infection. 

Your healthcare provider can usually diagnose measles based on the disease’s characteristic rash and Koplik’s spot on the inner lining of the cheek. Your healthcare provider may ask whether you or your child received measles vaccines, whether you traveled outside the U.S. recently, and whether you had contact with anyone who has a rash or fever. 

The rash can be confused with many other illnesses. However, a blood test can be done to confirm whether the rash is measles. A test using a throat swab or urine sample can also be used. 

There is no specific treatment for a measles infection once it occurs. Treatment can include providing comfort measures to relieve symptoms, such as rest, and treating or preventing complications. 

Some measures can be taken to protect individuals who don’t have immunity to measles after they have been exposed to the virus, including: 

  • Post-exposure vaccination 
  • Immune serum globulin 
  • Medications 
  • Fever reducers 
  • Antibiotics 
  • Vitamin A 

If you become sick with severe symptoms, particularly after potential exposure to the measles virus, you must receive treatment from a doctor as soon as possible. You can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Diabetic Macular Edema

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a severe complication of diabetic retinopathy that occurs when there is swelling in the central part of the retina in the eye, called the macula. 

Diabetes affects the blood vessels in the eyes, making them weaker and more likely to leak blood. It may also cause new and more fragile blood vessels to grow where they shouldn’t. 

There are several signs and symptoms of diabetic macular edema, including: 

  • Blurry or double vision 
  • Difficulty seeing colors 
  • Dark spots 
  • Straight lines that appear to be bent or curved 
  • Floaters 
  • Difficulty seeing when there’s glare or bright light 
  • Seeing an object as being a different size when looking at it with only one eye and then the other 

Diabetic macular edema can be diagnosed when an ophthalmologist performs a thorough eye examination to see if there is any swelling in your retina. In addition to the eye exam, your ophthalmologist will perform a slit lamp exam, as well as tests to help diagnose and monitor diabetic macular edema, including: 

  • Optical coherence tomography 
  • Fluorescein angiography 
  • Amsler grid 

There are several treatment options for diabetic macular edema. One form of treatment includes drugs that block vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is a protein that helps new blood vessels grow, and steroids that are injected into the eye to help manage inflammation. Another form of treatment includes laser therapy to seal the blood vessels in your eyes to stop the leakage, and vitrectomy. 

There are several ways to possibly reduce your risk of developing diabetic macular edema, including: 

  • Managing diabetes and other chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure 
  • Getting regular eye exams 
  • Eating a healthy diet 
  • Getting regular physical activity 
  • Quitting smoking 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of diabetic macular edema, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ophthalmology Center now by calling (718) 206-5900. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest

man has a sudden pain in his chest.Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating abruptly because of a sudden loss of electrical function.  This medical emergency requires immediate attention because blood flow to the brain and other vital organs stops within seconds.

Someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest may lose consciousness, collapse, stop breathing or gasp for air, or not respond when shaken.  Although sudden cardiac arrest often occurs without warning, individuals may have shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or a rapid beating heart beforehand.

A person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest may die within minutes if not treated immediately.  According to American Heart Association data, 9 out of every 10 people who experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital die.

If someone appears to be in sudden cardiac arrest, you must call 911 and begin CPR immediately.  Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if one is available.

Sudden cardiac arrest can have several causes, including:

  • Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythm)
  • Heart attack
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Congenital heart defects
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Heart valve disease
  • Recreational drug use
  • Severe blood loss
  • Electrolyte imbalances

Some individuals have a higher risk of sudden cardiac arrest than others.  A person may be at a higher risk if they:

  • Have experienced a previous heart attack
  • Have had heart failure
  • Have certain inherited heart conditions
  • If they are living with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or hypertension and high cholesterol
  • A history of serious arrhythmias
  • Are a survivor of a prior sudden cardiac arrest episode

Those who are obese, smoke, or use illicit substances are also at risk.

Research shows that between 40% and 63% of sudden cardiac arrest cases are preventable and the risk can be reduced, because the vast majority of causes stem from underlying heart conditions.

Prevention can be achieved through knowing your family history,  requesting specific screenings and early detection, managing underlying illnesses, and practicing heart-healthy habits. Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Cardiology Department can help you manage your heart health. To schedule an appointment, please call 718-206-7100.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

What to Know About This Year’s Flu Shot

Flu season has arrived, and it can be unpredictable. It can begin as early as fall and can last until spring, with flu activity usually peaking during winter.  

Public healthcare professionals, advocates, and communities come together every fall to promote the flu vaccine because the flu can cause serious health complications, such as bacterial infections or pneumonia. If it isn’t treated in time, the flu can even lead to death.   

The flu can hit hard and fast, with more severe symptoms usually coming on more suddenly. Symptoms of the flu include:  

  • A high, sudden fever  
  • A stuffy nose  
  • A dry cough  
  • Headaches   
  • Muscle aches  
  • Extreme fatigue  
  • Chills and sweats  
  • Lack of appetite  

The flu vaccine can help protect you and your loved ones from potentially dangerous complications. The Food and Drug Administration has approved nine flu vaccines for the 2026-2027 season to help prevent an infection from the flu virus. Each vaccine is trivalent, meaning they were designed to protect against three different strains of influenza, which are the viruses that cause the flu. The three strains are comprised of two influenza A viruses and one influenza B/Victoria virus.  

 The effectiveness of the flu vaccine can have a lot to do with when you get it, which is why it is recommended to get the flu vaccine about two weeks before flu season begins. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that most people six years of age or older receive an annual flu vaccine, ideally before the end of October. However, vaccination later in the season can still offer protection.  

Each of the nine vaccines is recommended for certain age groups. They include: 

  • Fluad is recommended for those 65 years of age or older 
  • Fluarix is recommended for those six months or older 
  • Flublok is recommended for those nine years of age or older 
  • Flucelvax is recommended for those six months or older 
  • FluLaval is recommended for those six months or older 
  • FluMist is recommended for those two years of age or older 
  • Fluzone is recommended for those six months or older 
  • Fluzone High-Dose is recommended for those 65 years of age or older 
  • MFlusiva is recommended for those 50 years of age or older 

It is important to note that the flu vaccine has more benefits than just lowering your risk of getting the flu. They include: 

  • It lowers the risk of needing to go to a healthcare professional for treatment of the flu 
  • It reduces the risk of flu-related complications, hospitalizations, and death 
  • It helps lessen the severity of symptoms if you do get sick with the flu virus 
  • It helps prevent the flu from spreading to those around you. This is essential if you are regularly around people who have weakened immune systems or people who can’t receive the flu vaccine 
  • If you are pregnant, it helps protect your fetus during pregnancy and for a few months after birth 

Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent serious symptoms of the flu virus. However, there are also several steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting and spreading the flu, including:  

  • Washing your hands frequently with soap and water.  
  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.  
  • Staying home when you are sick to prevent the spread of the virus to others.  
  • Covering your cough and sneeze with a tissue or your elbow.  
  • Considering wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces, especially if you are around high-risk individuals. 

If you are experiencing any symptoms of the flu, you can schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001.   

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

What is HRT for Menopause?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment that helps people who are experiencing symptoms of menopause and replaces the hormones that the body isn’t making enough of. 

HRT is the term used when a person receives treatment at a younger age, especially before the age of 40. Healthcare providers use the term hormone therapy (HT) when the person is receiving treatment after the age of 50. As women transition to menopause, their ovaries stop making high levels of estrogen. This can cause symptoms, such as: 

  • Hot flashes and night sweats  
  • Mood swings, depression, or irritability 
  • Insomnia  
  • Vaginal dryness and painful sexual intercourse 
  • Leaking pee 

There are two main types of HRT: estrogen therapy and estrogen-progesterone therapy. 

  • Estrogen therapy involves taking only estrogen. Estrogen can come in many forms, including: 
  • Pills that are taken orally 
  • A patch that sticks to the skin 
  • A gel that is applied to the skin 
  • A ring that is worn inside the vagina 
  • A cream that is applied to the vagina 
  • Tablets that are placed inside the vagina 
  • A spray that is applied to the arm 
  • Estrogen-progesterone therapy, or combination therapy, combines doses of estrogen and progesterone 

There are two ways to take hormone replacement therapy: systemic and local. 

Systemic hormone therapy means the hormone goes through your bloodstream and travels to the organs and tissues it needs to get to. 

Local hormone therapy means the hormone is applied to a specific area. 

There are both health benefits and risks to be aware of when taking HRT. Your healthcare provider can help determine if the benefits of HRT outweigh its risks.  

A main benefit of HRT is that it relieves uncomfortable symptoms of menopause, which can lead to a better quality of life and allow you to get back to enjoying your daily activities. The benefits of HRT include: 

  • Helping with vaginal dryness and uncomfortable sex 
  • Helping with hot flashes and night sweats 
  • Helping with estrogen deficiency 

Other health benefits of taking HRT include: 

  • Reduces your risk of developing osteoporosis or breaking a bone 
  • Improves your sleep 
  • Improves mood and overall happiness in some people 
  • Reduces your risk of developing diabetes 
  • Combination therapy lowers your risk of developing colon cancer 

Although HRT can help you get through menopause as you deal with it, it comes with potential risks, including: 

  • Increased risk of uterine cancer, only if you still have a uterus and aren’t taking progestin along with estrogen 
  • Increased risk of breast cancer with long-term use in some people 
  • Increased risk of heart disease if you begin using HRT 10 years after menopause starts  
  • Increased risk of blood clots and stroke 
  • Increased risk of gallbladder disease 

It’s important to note that many of these potential risks have to do with your overall health and family history of health conditions. It is important to discuss any individual risks with your healthcare provider.  

If HRT doesn’t work for you or if your healthcare provider doesn’t think you would benefit from it, they may offer alternative options that may help your symptoms. Alternative options include: 

  • Antidepressants for hot flashes 
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) vaginal lubricants 
  • Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) for hot flashes and painful sexual intercourse 
  • Fezolinetant or paroxetine, which are FDA-approved for treating hot flashes 

If you are experiencing menopause symptoms and are interested in HRT, you can get more information about Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s endocrinology service or make an appointment by calling 718-206-7001. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month- Breast Cancer Stages

Breast cancer happens when healthy breast cells become abnormal, multiply, and form tumors. Most breast cancers are carcinomas that start in milk ducts or milk-producing glands. Most cases are invasive, which means a tumor can spread to other parts of your body without treatment.  

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers that affects women. Approximately one in eight women in the U.S. will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Although it is rare, male breast cancers also occur.  

Most people who have breast cancer survive it. However, what a breast cancer diagnosis means is different for everyone. The cancer type, its stage, and your response to treatment are just a few factors that will shape your outlook. 

Cancer staging systems help healthcare providers plan treatment and understand your prognosis, or what to expect after treatment. The most well-known one is called the TNM system, which considers (T) tumor size and location, and whether cancer has spread to the (N) lymph nodes or (M) metastasized to other sites. Healthcare providers will use this information to stage breast cancer from 0 to IV. The higher numbered stages mean the disease is more advanced. The TNM stages are: 

  • Stage 0 describes non-invasive breast cancers, such as DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ). Stage 0 doesn’t show any evidence of cancer cells or non-cancerous abnormal cells breaking out of the part of the breast in which they started or getting through to or invading neighboring normal tissue 
  • Stage I describes invasive breast cancer in which cancer cells break through to or invade normal surrounding breast tissue. Stage I breast cancer is divided into subcategories IA and IB: 
    • Stage IA describes invasive breast cancer that: 
      • Has a tumor that measures up to 2 cm 
      • The cancer has not spread outside the breast, and no lymph nodes are involved 
    • Stage IB describes invasive breast cancer that: 
      • Has no tumor in the breast, but small groups of cancer cells that are larger than 0.2 mm but not larger than 2 mm, and are found in the lymph nodes 
      • There is a tumor in the breast that is no larger than 2 cm, and there are small groups of cancer cells larger than 0.2 mm but not larger than 2 mm in the lymph nodes 
  • Stage II is divided into subcategories IIA and IIB: 
    • Stage IIA describes invasive breast cancer that:  
      • Has no tumor present in the breast, but is found in one to three lymph nodes under the arm or in the lymph nodes near the breastbone and is larger than 2 mm  
      • A tumor that measures 2 cm or smaller and has spread to the axillary lymph nodes 
      • The tumor is larger than 2 cm but not larger than 5 cm and has not spread to the axillary lymph nodes 
    • Stage IIB describes invasive breast cancer that:  
      • Has a tumor larger than 2 cm but no larger than 5 cm, and a small group of breast cancer cells larger than 0.2 mm but not larger than 2 mm are found in the lymph nodes 
      • The tumor is larger than 2 cm but no larger than 5 cm, and the cancer has spread to one to three axillary lymph nodes or to lymph nodes near the breastbone 
      • The tumor is larger than 5 cm but hasn’t spread to the axillary lymph nodes 
  • Stage III breast cancer is divided into subcategories IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC: 
    • Stage IIIA describes invasive breast cancer in which: 
      • No tumor is found in the breast, or the tumor may be any size, or cancer is found in four to nine axillary lymph nodes or in the lymph nodes near the breastbone 
      • The tumor is larger than 5 cm, or small groups of breast cancer cells larger than 0.2 mm but not larger than 2 mm are found in lymph nodes 
      • The tumor is larger than 5 cm, or the cancer has spread to one to three axillary lymph nodes or to the lymph nodes near the breastbone 
    • Stage IIIB describes invasive breast cancer in which: 
      • The tumor may be any size and has spread to the chest wall and/or skin of the breast, causing swelling or an ulcer  
      • May have spread to up to nine axillary lymph nodes  
      • May have spread to lymph nodes near the breastbone 
    • Stage IIIC describes invasive breast cancer in which: 
      • There may be no sign of cancer in the breast, or if there is a tumor, it may be any size and may have spread to the chest wall and/or the skin of the breast  
      • The cancer has spread to 10 or more axillary lymph nodes 
      • The cancer has spread to lymph nodes above or below the collarbone 
  • Stage IV describes invasive breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to other organs of the body, such as the lungs, distant lymph nodes, skin, bones, liver, or brain 

Whether you need diagnostic testing or treatment, the MediSys Cancer Center located at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center offers unmatched Queens cancer care for any form of cancer. To schedule an appointment or learn more about our New York hospital’s oncology department, please call 718-206-8263.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Mental Illness Awareness Week- National Depression Screening Day

National Depression Screening Day was created to bring light to the need for depression awareness and accessible and affordable mental health screenings.

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses. Clinical depression affects men and women of all ages, races, and socioeconomic groups. Depression results from a mix of environmental, genetic, psychological, biological, and biochemical components.

Not everyone experiences depression in the same way, and it can affect anyone at any time. It is important to take steps to seek out professional help and be screened if you or someone you care about feels they may be depressed.

People suffering from depression often experience some of these key symptoms:

  • A persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
  • Sleeping too little, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much
  • Reduced appetite and weight loss, or increased appetite and weight gain
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
  • Restlessness or irritability
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
  • Fatigue or loss of energy
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

There are several reasons why it is important to screen for depression, including:

  • Clinical depression is a serious medical illness
  • Clinical depression can lead to suicide
  • Sometimes people with depression mistakenly believe that the symptoms of depression are a “normal part of life”
  • Depression can co-occur and complicate other medical conditions
  • Screenings are often the first step in getting help

Screenings are not a professional diagnosis. Screenings point out the presence or absence of depressive symptoms and provide a referral for further evaluation if needed. You should see your doctor or a qualified mental health professional if you experience symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily routine.

Only about a third (35.3%) of those suffering from severe depression seek treatment from a mental health professional. Not receiving the assistance needed can lead to adverse health outcomes and affect a person’s quality of life. If you need the assistance and support of a mental health professional, you can find out more about the mental health services at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. Please call 718-206-5575 to schedule an appointment.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

How Short Walks After Eating Help Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

Blood sugar, or blood glucose, is the main sugar found in the blood. It is our body’s primary source of energy and comes from the food we eat. When your blood glucose goes up, it signals your pancreas to release insulin. However, when things aren’t functioning properly, you can develop high blood sugar, which means there is too much sugar in your bloodstream. You may have high blood sugar due to:

  • Your body isn’t using insulin correctly
  • Your pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin

Elevated blood sugar levels can cause blood vessel damage, which can lead to serious complications, such as:

  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Diabetes-related retinopathy, which can cause blindness
  • Diabetes-related nephropathy, which can lead to kidney failure
  • Nerve damage

Our blood sugar naturally rises when we eat and is highest about 30 to 90 minutes after eating. However, frequent or especially high spikes in blood sugar levels can increase the risk of or worsen diabetes.

Fortunately, there are several ways to lower blood sugar levels into a healthy range, such as eating healthy, getting regular exercise, and managing stress. Another way to manage blood sugar levels is to take a short walk after eating.

Research shows that a short walk after a meal can:

  • Prevent your blood sugar from spiking as high as it would if you ate and remained seated
  • Keep your insulin levels stable

Walking for ten minutes, or as little as two to five minutes, can lower your blood sugar.

When walking after a meal, it is important to stay safe. Some safety tips to keep in mind when walking include:

  • Go slow and gradually increase your physical activity
  • Avoid environmental triggers, such as high heat and humidity, environmental allergens, cold air, and safety hazards
  • Fall prevention for those who are 65 years of age and older

Jamaica Hospital’s Division of Endocrinology treats a wide variety of conditions. For more information about Jamaica Hospital’s endocrinology services, or to make an appointment, please call 718-206-7001.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.