August 2016 - Page 2 of 2 - Health BeatHealth Beat

Psoriasis Awareness Month

Posted on August 15, 2016 by Zakiya Hazel-Jemmott

Psoriasis is a chronic, noncontagious, genetic disease that appears on the skin in red, scaly patches that itch, crack and bleed. This is the most common autoimmune disease in the country, affecting approximately 7.5 million Americans. It is a long-lasting disease of the immune system with symptoms ranging from mild to severe.

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown but there are symptoms to look for:

Red patches of skin covered with silvery scales
Small scaling spots (commonly seen in children)
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Itching, burning or soreness
Thickened, pitted or ridged nails
Swollen and stiff joints

When your body has plaque psoriasis, your immune system is overactive, triggering skin inflammation and causing skin cells to be produced faster than normal. New skin cells are pushed to the skin’s surface in three to four days instead of the usual 28 to 30. So while new skin cells are being produced rapidly, the old skin cells are pushed to the surface, forming the thick, red, itchy, flaky patches known as plaques.

The exact cause of psoriasis isn’t fully understood, but scientists believe psoriasis is the result of several factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and the immune system.

If you have psoriasis, it’s possible that someone in your family may have had it too. One out of three people with psoriasis also have a relative with the disease. Environmental triggers vary from person to person, causing the disease to become active.

If you suspect that you may have psoriasis, see your doctor for an examination. Also, talk to your doctor if your psoriasis:

Progresses beyond the nuisance stage, causing you discomfort and pain
Makes performing routine tasks difficult
Causes you concern about the appearance of your skin
Leads to joint problems, such as pain, swelling or inability to perform daily tasks

August is Psoriasis Awareness Month. Although the skin condition is not contagious, awareness about it is. People commonly think of psoriasis as just a “skin condition” but there is more to understand about it. Researchers and doctors have not yet discovered a specific cause of psoriasis but the National Psoriasis Foundation has grown to be the world’s largest nonprofit patient advocacy organization serving people with psoriasis. Learn more about the NPF and its investment in cutting-edge research at www.psoriasis.org/research.

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.

National Immunization Awareness Month

Posted on August 11, 2016 by Andrew Rubin

Doctor Giving Male Patient Injection

August is National Immunization Awareness Month. The importance of this designation is to make people aware about the different types of vaccines they should get throughout their lifetime. Vaccines are important to keep the body healthy by building up an immunity to serious diseases. If you would like to make an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital, please call .

The Benefit of the Power Nap

Posted on August 10, 2016 by Joann Ariola

An action that previously would have been grounds for termination in many work places is now being considered for its health and performance benefits. Several companies are now acknowledging the benefits gained from a short nap during the workday, which include increased alertness, enhanced brainpower, and fewer sick days.

Although it is widely recommended that adults sleep for at least eight hours every night, research has shown that most individuals suffer from broken sleep and fail to get a good night’s rest. For these individuals, a short nap during office hours may help. A quick 15 to 20 minute power nap can provide the boost needed to effectively complete your workday.

Believers in this philosophy feel that a well-rested employee is a pleasant employee, noting that if you’re sleep deprived, you’re going to be moody and less productive. Several progressive companies are now seeking to reap the benefits of napping by offering perks such as designated nap or “renewal rooms” to their employees. Some companies simply encourage or allow employees to nap at their desks. The average time recommended for a healthy nap is 10 to 30 minutes. The longer the nap is, the more likely the chances of waking up groggy.

In addition to enhancing performance, studies indicate people who nap can also receive advantages that improve their overall health such as lower blood pressure, a boost to the immune system, a decrease in the risk of developing heart disease and a reduction in stress levels.

Napping offers various benefits for your health. However, receiving adequate sleep at night is just as important. If you are experiencing sleep deprivation, please contact your physician or sleep professional. To schedule an appointment at The Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Sleep Center, call 718-206-5916.

What Parents Should Know About Tonsillitis and Tonsil Removal

Posted on August 9, 2016 by Xavia Malcolm

Tonsillitis is one of the most common medical conditions that occur in children. It is caused by bacterial or viral infections of the tonsils and can result in severe inflammation and swelling.

Tonsillitis is often caused by Streptococcus (strep) bacteria. Other contributors are the influenza virus, enteroviruses, Epstein-Barr virus or adenoviruses.

In addition to the major symptoms of swelling and inflammation, complications due to tonsillitis include:

Painful blisters on the throat
Ear pain
Hoarseness or the loss of one’s voice
Bad breath
Fever
Difficulty swallowing
Throat pain
Loss of appetite
A yellow or white coating of the tonsils
Tender lymph nodes on the sides of the neck
Drooling

Tonsillitis is typically diagnosed by performing a rapid strep test or throat swab culture. Depending on severity, a doctor may treat the condition with medication or recommend surgery.

Surgery is often considered the best option when tonsillitis is recurrent, unresponsive to medication or when inflamed tonsils are obstructing airways and other severe complications. The name of the procedure is called a tonsillectomy and is performed to remove the tonsils.

Tonsillectomies can be performed as same-day surgery in an ambulatory surgical setting. It is done under general anesthesia and may last anywhere from 30-45 minutes. The recovery period is approximately 10 days.

The procedure is one of many performed by highly-trained physicians at the Ambulatory Surgery Unit at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. The unit’s newly designed pediatric area offers children amenities such as televisions that feature child-friendly movies, toy chests and coloring books. In this area, children now have the option to ride a tricycle into the operating area. Jamaica Hospital’s on-site Ambulatory Surgery Unit is located on the first floor of the hospital. The Center is open Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. For more information, please call 718-206-6102.

The Benefits of Joining a Support Group- Quit Smoking Today

Posted on August 5, 2016 by Zakiya Hazel-Jemmott

It is no secret that smoking can have a number of adverse effects on the health of a smoker and those they smoke near. The journey to quitting smoking has evolved from quitting cold turkey, to smoking patches, nicotine gum and today, electronic cigarettes. A more interactive way to stop smoking is by joining a support group.

There are several benefits associated with support groups that will keep you motivated and focused on your goal. Smoking cessation support groups help you to identify the mental, physical, and social aspects of smoking. Participants are six times more likely to be smoke-free one year later than those who quit on their own. Also, statistics have shown that up to 60% of smokers have quit by the end of the program.

The journey to quit smoking can be difficult, but you do not have to do it alone. Jamaica Hospital’s smoking cessation team wants to help you develop a plan leading to your “quit day”.

Jamaica Hospital’s Medical Home Department has partnered with the American Lung Association to bring you Freedom from Smoking, a comprehensive and successful group-based smoking cessation program. Here you will participate in a series of sessions that prepare you for your quit day, provide lifestyle change tips, manage your stress, and help you stay tobacco-free for good.

Recently Jamaica hospital was recognized for its commitment to patient health and initiating comprehensive systems for identifying tobacco-using patients and linking them with smoking cessation resources. Additionally, the hospital earned the Gold Star Recognition from the New York City Department of Health’s- NYC Tobacco-Free Hospitals Campaign for its excellence in developing inpatient and outpatient tobacco cessation systems.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center has partnered with the American Lung Association to offer Freedom from Smoking, a comprehensive and successful group-based smoking cessation program.

Support group classes at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center are forming. For more information or to register, please call 718-206-8494.

How Does Hot Weather Affect Asthma ?

Posted on August 4, 2016 by Andrew Rubin

Exhausted female runner suffering angina pectoris

It is a fact that breathing difficulties associated with asthma are affected by hot weather. Anyone who has walked a few blocks when it is hot and humid outside will know that breathing seems to be more difficult. This is especially true for anyone who suffers from asthma. One possible cause of this is due to the hot, humid air irritating the airways causing inflammation which will lead to symptoms of an asthma attack. Another reason is that hot and humid air is heavier and therefore a person may have to struggle to breathe..
In hot weather months there is an increase in the amount of ozone in the air and also a higher concentration of dust and fine particles which can cause existing respiratory conditions to worsen especially in the very young and the elderly.
Some of the environmental factors that affect the respiratory system are:
• Higher levels of carbon dioxide and higher temperature can lead to more spores and mold in the air.

• Higher temperatures can lead to more greenhouse gases being produced.

• Environmental production of pollutants from vehicles and factories become trapped in the atmosphere.

These environmental conditions can cause chest pain, wheezing, and coughing, and reduced lung function for those who suffer with asthma.
Irritants that affect breathing function have definitely worsened over the years due to climate changes. People are being treated more frequently in the emergency rooms across the country due to lack of clean air to breathe.
To help avoid asthma attacks in hot weather it is recommended to:
• Stay indoors as much as possible in an air conditioned environment
• Avoid strenuous activity
• Keep hydrated
• Try to limit being outdoors during the hottest time of day
To schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital who can help treat breathing difficulties, please call 718-206-7001.

Importance of a Back to School Dental Check Up

Posted on August 3, 2016 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

When planning your child’s return to school in the fall, as parents you have a list of supplies and purchases that need to me be made to make sure they have everything they need to have a great school year. While planning your child’s entrance back to school, make sure you schedule an appointment for your child’s dental check-up.

Healthy teeth are important to your child’s overall health. Did you know that a correlation between oral infections and diabetes, asthma, heart disease and obesity has been identified? According to the National Institutes of Health, 20% to 30% of children and adolescents in the United States have chronic health conditions due to a lack of good oral hygiene.

Chronic illness may interfere with a child’s ability to succeed in school. There has been statistical evidence that shows a direct link between chronic illness and missed school time that can lead to a decline in your child’s school performance.

Some ways to promote healthy teeth in your child are:

Brush teeth regularly – At the age of 3, you can begin to teach your child proper brushing techniques by using a drop of fluoride toothpaste on a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Avoid Sugar – Ingesting sweets brings about an acidity that causes decay-producing bacteria. A sugary snack can lead to a mouth full of cavities.
Regular dental treatments – Your child should see a dentist around the time of his/her first birthday and then regularly thereafter. It is important to establish relationship of trust between your child and their dentist.

If you feel anxious about a visit to the dentist, try not to convey those feelings to your child. Encourage your child to discuss any fears about visiting a dentist and be reassuring that the dental professional is there to help them.

If you are interested in making an appointment for your child to see a dentist, the Department of Dentistry at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center provides valuable services to the community. For an appointment call, 718-206-6980.

When planning your child’s return to school after the summer break, make certain that scheduling an appointment for a dental checkup is on your list of priorities.

Healthy teeth are important to your child’s overall health. Did you know that there is a correlation between oral infections and diabetes, asthma, heart disease and obesity? According to the National Institutes of Health, 20% to 30% of children and adolescents in the United States have chronic health conditions due to a lack of good oral hygiene.

Some ways to promote healthy teeth in your child are:

Brushing teeth regularly – At the age of 3, you can begin to teach your child proper brushing techniques by using a drop of fluoride toothpaste on a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Avoiding sugar – Ingesting sweets can produce acids that cause decay-producing bacteria to develop.
Scheduling regular dental treatments – Your child should see a dentist around the time of his/her first birthday and then regularly thereafter. It is important to establish relationship of trust between your child and their dentist.

If you feel anxious about a visit to the dentist, try not to convey those feelings to your child. Encourage them to discuss any fears about visiting a dentist and be reassuring that the dental professional is there to help.

Napping -Not Just for Kids

Posted on August 2, 2016 by Joann Ariola

An office protocol, that normally would have been grounds for termination, is now being considered for its many benefits. Several companies are now acknowledging the health benefits of a short nap during the workday, which include increased alertness, enhanced brainpower, and fewer sick days.
It is recommended that adults sleep for at least eight hours every night, however, research has shown that most individuals suffer from broken sleep and fail to get a good night’s rest. For these individuals, a short nap can help. A quick 15 to 20 minute power nap can provide the boost needed to effectively complete your workday.

There are several progressive companies, such as British Airways, Nike, Pizza Hut and Google, who are now seeking to reap these benefits. These companies have created designated nap rooms or “renewal rooms” for their employees, allowed their employees to bring a nap mat for the office, or simply encouraged their employees to sleep at their desk.

Some employers are now encouraging napping for the wellness of their employees. People who take daily 30-minute naps are 37 percent less likely to die from heart disease than those who don’t nap, according to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine in 2007. Naps can also boost the immune system—theoretically leading to fewer sick days—and propel employees into their most alert, energetic, and creative states, say nap advocates. Believers in this protocol feel that a well-rested employee is a pleasant employee, noting that if you’re sleep deprived, you’re going to be moody.

Napping Further Explained
Naps can be broken down into four categories:

Planned napping, also known as preemptive napping, involves taking a nap before you get sleepy. It is a good thing to do if you know you’re going to have a late night.
Emergency napping is exactly as it sounds— taking a nap when you’re so sleepy that you can’t properly engage in your current activity.
Habitual napping is the practice of taking a nap at the same time every day.
Appetitive napping is the act of napping strictly for enjoyment.

As noted, napping increases alertness, learning capacity, memory and performance— and we have known this now for several decades. Naps can also reduce stress, as well as lower blood pressure, which is important for our overall health. So, with the research and results on “power napping,” it is safe to say that a well-rested employee is a more productive employee.