August 2016 - Health BeatHealth Beat

Tips For Healthy Summer Living

Posted on August 30, 2016 by Xavia Malcolm

It is not unusual for people to ignore their weight and fitness goals during summer. The season puts many in the state of mind to relax or let loose, often abandoning diet and exercise regimens once followed.

In the summer, we tend to have less time to work out because a good portion of our time is spent attending social obligations such as barbecues; where we typically eat and drink more than normal.

Additionally, we travel more and fast food often becomes our meal of choice because it is easy to grab and go. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many healthy fast food options.

Although we are nearing the end of summer, it is not too late to take advantage of the rest of the season and get back on track with your goals. Following these tips can help you along the way:

Reduce consumption of sugary drinks. Summer drinks such as lemonade or iced- tea are sometimes packed with large amounts of sugar. If sugar calories are not burned by the body, they can be converted into fat.
Drink alcoholic beverages in moderation. Did you know that having a pint of beer could be equivalent to having a slice of pepperoni pizza? Alcoholic beverages can be high in empty calories. Moderating your alcohol consumption or having light versions of your favorite drink (also in moderation); can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Be mindful of your portions. When we are socializing we tend to eat more but paying attention to portion size can help reduce excessive consumption. Other helpful tips are eating before going to your event, as well as steering clear of foods that tempt you the most and opting for healthier choices.
Pack healthy meals to go. Packing healthy meals to go is easy. Grab items such as apples, nuts and yogurt that will easily fit in your bag.
Squeeze in exercise. There is the saying, “something is better than nothing.” This is true with exercise. A few minutes of exercise each day can offer many benefits to your health. If it is too hot outside, doing simple activities such as dancing or jogging in place in your home can help you to stay active and manage your weight.

These guidelines can be helpful; however, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor if weight gain persists. Abnormal weight gain is at times an indicator of a more serious health issue.

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.

Jamaica Hospital Plans To Expand and Renovate Hospice Care Unit

Posted on August 29, 2016 by Zakiya Hazel-Jemmott

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center has announced plans to completely renovate and expand its hospice care unit.

The hospital has provided inpatient hospice care services since 2010 and in that time has provided compassionate, comfort care to countless patients facing end of life. Their multidisciplinary team of specially trained hospice professionals offers extensive medical, social and spiritual services. “As a community-based hospital we have made a commitment to provide the highest quality hospice care services to all those who need it,” stated Jamaica Hospital President and CEO; Bruce J. Flanz.

The organization’s commitment to the community was the inspiration to conceptualize what will be the newly developed Ferrara Family Center for Hospice Care. The unit’s redesign will provide patients and loved ones with a home-like environment that promotes privacy and serenity. The new unit will offer many upgrades and amenities including family meeting rooms as well as a relaxing lounge that offers families a space to gather, decompress or reflect.

“Every detail from the lighting to the tranquil artwork will be carefully considered to offer our patients and families a sense of peace” said Chairman of Family Medicine and Palliative Care, Dr. Alan Roth. He continued, “As hospice professionals, we understand how important a comfortable environment is during what can be a difficult time.”

To achieve their goal of completing the new Ferrara Family Center for Hospice Care, Jamaica Hospital has embarked on a $1,000,000 capital fundraising campaign. Numerous supporters of the hospital have already made generous contributions through naming opportunities and by purchasing memorial plaques.

The plans for renovating the hospice unit at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center have been enthusiastically received. Hospital leadership, staff and supporters are excited about the future of The Ferrara Family Center for Hospice Care, which is set to begin construction this fall.

For information about contributing to our hospice unit, please call the Development Department at 718-206-8613.

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The Benefits of Taking a Vacation

Posted on August 25, 2016 by Andrew Rubin

We live in a stressful society, therefore It is very important for people to take a break in order to stay healthy. Studies have shown not taking a vacation for a few years can increase the risk of heart disease and the potential for a heart attack.

It was also found that people who take vacations have an easier time with breaking bad habits such as nail biting, smoking, and eating poorly because the stressors that lead to these behaviors are minimalized.

There are many additional benefits to taking a vacation:
•A better outlook on life
• A chance for the body to unwind
• An increase in happiness

To really benefit from a vacation a person has to leave their work environment at home.
Today, with electronic devices so prevalent, it is recommended to not check them more than once or twice a day, while on vacation to reap the full benefits of relaxation.

Babyfat or Obesity?

Posted on August 24, 2016 by Joann Ariola

In many cases efforts to curb childhood obesity are aimed at children who are school-aged. However, new research suggests that interventions directed towards this group may be too late.

The most recent evidence indicates that pivotal times to introduce preventative efforts in your child’s life are during infancy and the toddler years.

According to experts, there are several measures you can take to prevent obesity and keep your baby at a healthy weight.

The Mayo Clinic recommends:

Monitor your weight gain during pregnancy.Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can increase a baby’s birth weight. Research suggests that as birth weight increases, so does the risk of childhood obesity.
Breast-feed.Some research suggests that breast-feeding reduces the risk of childhood obesity.
Limit sugar-sweetened drinks.Juice isn’t a necessary part of a baby’s diet. As you start introducing solid foods, consider offering nutritious fruits and vegetables instead.
Experiment with ways to soothe your baby.Don’t automatically turn to breast milk or formula to quiet your baby’s cries. Sometimes a new position, a calmer environment or a gentle touch is all that’s needed.
Limit media use.The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages media use by children younger than age 2. The more TV your child watches, the greater his or her risk is of becoming overweight.

It is important to keep in mind that your child needs a diet that is high in healthy fats to foster growth during infancy and caloric restrictions aimed at reducing weight is not recommended for babies under the age of two. It is highly suggested that you speak to your doctor about age-appropriate dietary guidelines before implementing any changes.

If you feel that you child may be overweight or you would like more information about childhood obesity, please contact Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at 718-206-7001 to make an appointment.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

Posted on August 24, 2016 by Joann Ariola

For a healthy and hearty salad, try this black bean and corn salad recipe from the Food Network. Let us know how you like it!

What To Expect and How To Prepare for Your Mammogram

Posted on August 23, 2016 by Xavia Malcolm

Your doctor may have recommended scheduling a mammogram as part of your annual exam or to further examine symptoms you may be experiencing that are relative to cancer. Whatever the reason may be for testing, mammograms can be extremely stressful for many women.

Although the anxiety leading up to the day of your mammogram may be overwhelming it is important not to put off testing. A mammogram is very effective in the early detection of breast cancer and saves lives.

Knowing what to expect can alleviate some of the anxiety and stress that may occur before and during the process. Here are few tips to help guide you through the process and make your experience more comfortable:

Preparing for your mammogram. Scheduling your mammogram a week after menstruation is often recommended by physicians because your breasts will be less tender and swollen. It is also recommended that you do not wear deodorants, antiperspirants, lotions, powders or ointments on your chest area because they may show up as abnormalities in your X-rays. Come prepared to remove all garments and jewelry on your upper body. If you have any concerns or symptoms you would like to discuss do not hesitate to do so before the examination. Most importantly, make certain that the facility is accredited by the American College of Radiology and specializes in breast imaging.
The duration of your mammogram. A mammogram typically takes 20 -30 minutes to complete. Times may vary if you have larger breasts, denser breasts or implants. During this time a mammogram technologist will position your breasts on the X-ray machine and compress them each for a few seconds. You may experience some discomfort or pain. Technologists are trained to ensure your privacy and to do their best to make you as comfortable as possible. If the degree of pain is too much, please inform the technologist.
After the test. After images are taken of your breast, their quality will be checked by a technician. If they are not up to standard the technologist will have to re-issue the mammogram. Otherwise, your radiologist will review and interpret the images. The radiologist will look for evidence of cancerous or benign tissues and send a report to your doctor.

If suspicious findings or abnormalities are found in your mammogram, the radiologist or your doctor may recommend another mammogram or breast ultrasound to further investigate their findings.

Jamaica Hospital’s Radiology Department offers a wide variety of state-of-the-art diagnostic and specialty services performed by over 16 board-certified and subspecialty trained radiologists, along with several highly trained and experienced technologists.

With several upgrades and improvements to the department, our patients can now undergo their testing in a new and more comfortable environment. Services offered by the Radiology Department include ultrasound, mammography and MRI.

For more information about the radiology services offered by the hospital or to schedule an appointment, please call the Department of Radiology at 718-206-6039.

What Expecting Mothers Don’t Expect

Posted on August 19, 2016 by Zakiya Hazel-Jemmott

As wonderful and exciting as pregnancy is, it comes with a lot of anxiety and curiosity due to changes your body undergoes on the journey to motherhood. Some of these changes aren’t the most comfortable or fun and some are totally unexpected. Here’s a list of three unexpected changes some women go through when expecting.

Forgetfulness. Short-term memory loss caused by pregnancy , also called “pregnancy brain,” may cause you to forget appointments, what you just walked into the store for, where you left your purse, whether you turned off the stove — and, maybe, your phone number. A fun fact: for reasons unknown, some research has shown that women pregnant with girls are, on average, more forgetful than those carrying boys. Forgetfulness is completely normal, and thile it’sfrustrating it is only temporary.
Snoring. Even if you’ve never done it before in your life snoring is fairly common during pregnancy, affecting about one in three pregnant women. The most likely culprits of your new sleep habit are nasal congestion caused by surging pregnancy hormones, that cause the mucous membranes in your nose to swell, and excess weight gain, which results in extra tissue around your head and neck – both of which are common pregnancy symptoms. Usually snoring is just an annoyance but sometimes can be the result of more serious issues like gestational diabetes, sleep apnea, or preeclampsia. It is very important to share your snoring concerns with your doctor if you have been snoring more than usual.
Discolored Skin. Most women expect to start glowing in their second trimester but some women find that they get spotty or dry, itchy skin, that they get skin tags and also brown patches of skin. Some women also find they get a dark line down their belly – called the linea nigra. You can also get redness on the palms of your hand and the soles of your feet.

There are all sorts of changes that happen to your body during pregnancy. Pregnancy books and prenatal classes tell you about the obvious ones but there are also all sorts of weird changes that happen to your body that no one talks about. Keep in mind that all women don’t go through the same changes during pregnancy. If any of your symptoms are alarming and too uncomfortable make an appointment with your doctor immediately.

Jamaica Hospital now offers a new, group model for prenatal care called Centering Pregnancy, that offers expectant moms the opportunity to share experiences and learn from other women who are in the same stages of pregnancy as they are. For more information about our Centering Program, please call 718-206-6866.

The “Eyes” Have It! Treating Pinkeye

Posted on August 19, 2016 by Zakiya Hazel-Jemmott

August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, and Pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis, affects children of all ages and at any time of the year. Symptoms include redness and swelling of the mucous membrane that line the lid and surface of the eye and discharge. Pinkeye can be caused by many things including, but not limited to, an infection, dry eyes from lack of tears or over exposure to wind and sun, chemicals, allergies and smoke.

Pinkeye is very common, is usually not serious, can be viral or bacterial, is highly contagious and can spread very easily. Therefore, preventing its spread is important.

There are home remedies for Pinkeye that will help reduce your pain and keep your eye free of drainage prior to seeing your doctor.

Some home remedies that have proven effective are – removing your contacts from infected eyes, applying cold or warm compresses to your eye (whichever feels best) to soothe any discomfort and reduce redness.

When treating your Pinkeye at home, remember to wipe your eye from the inside toward the outside and do not rub drainage back and forth between eyes. After wiping your eye, be sure to wash your hands to prevent pinkeye from spreading.

Symptoms usually last 5 to 7 days, but some cases can last for up to 3 weeks.

If symptoms persist and you would like to make an appointment to see one of our doctors, please call the Department of Ophthalmology at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center at 718-206-5900 for an appointment.

Prostate Cancer

Posted on August 17, 2016 by Andrew Rubin

The prostate gland is a part of the male reproductive system that sits below the bladder and is normally the size of a walnut. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death in American men. The majority of men who reach the age of 80 are found to have prostate cancer however most types of this cancer at that age grow slowly and may not contribute to any serious harm. Some types of prostate cancer are very aggressive and can spread to other parts of the body.
Prostate cancer can occur at any age, but is more common in men over the age of 65. There is a higher incidence of it in African American males and men who have a family history of the disease.
Symptoms of prostate cancer include:
• Difficulty urinating
• Less forceful urination
• Need to urinate frequently
• Painful urination
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Pain in the lower back, hips, pelvis
• Unexplained weight loss
Prostate screenings are very important to help detect the disease. A blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and a digital rectal exam (DRE) are the two tests that a physician will start with to see if there are any abnormalities. If there is reason to believe that there is a problem other tests will be performed and this includes an ultrasound exam and a biopsy of the gland.
Treatment of prostate cancer depends on the age of the patient at the time of diagnosis, the overall health of the patient, and the amount of growth and spread of the disease. Treatment options can include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.
To schedule an appointment with a urologist at Jamaica Hospital who can perform a prostate exam, please call 718-206-7110.

Not Your Mama’s Choco Chip Cookies!

Posted on August 17, 2016 by Joann Ariola

If you love chocolate chip cookies and you are breastfeeding, you may want to try these special Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookies. They may help you increase your breast milk supply and please your taste buds with a satisfying snack!

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