October 2019 - Health BeatHealth Beat

Employee Spotlight on Frank Filloramo

Posted on October 31, 2019 by Andrew Rubin

This month we shine our Employee Spotlight on Frank Filloramo, Paramedic.

Frank Filloramo is a very familiar face to many people as he has worked in the Pre-Hospital Care Department at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center for over 30 years. Frank grew up in Howard Beach, New York and went to elementary school at St. Helen’s, then on to Christ the King for High School, and attended St. John’s University.

While working at Jamaica Hospital, Frank worked for the New York City Police Department as a Sergeant in the Counterterrorism Division. He retired from that position in 2010 after having served for twenty years. He also worked part time for two years as a paramedic for the New York Mets at Citifield. He says it was a great experience and he met some very interesting players. In 2017, Frank was one of the employees who went to Puerto Rico as part of Jamaica Hospital’s Hurricane Maria relief effort to the island.

Frank currently lives in Connecticut and has three beautiful daughters, ages 16, 13, and 10 years old. They mean the world to him. In his free time he enjoys cooking with his girls, especially making home-made pizza. Frank says that family is the most important part of his life. This is why holidays that involve family gatherings such as Christmas are special to him. While his immediate family is his number one priority, he values his family at Jamaica Hospital as well.

Frank enjoys working at Jamaica Hospital. He says that it is like a second home. The hospital allows Frank to live his dream of helping others and sharing his knowledge with colleagues. Jamaica Hospital is fortunate to have Frank as part of our team at and we look forward to him remaining 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.

Health Benefits of Pumpkins and a Recipe Too!

Posted on October 30, 2019 by Joann Ariola

Synonymous with the fall season are apples, squash and, of course, pumpkins. Did you know that pumpkins are not only tasty, they are quite healthy.

Some health benefits of pumpkins are:

They are highly rich in Vitamin A
They contain antioxidants and immune boosters that may reduce your risk of chronic illnesses
They are high in nutrients and low in calories
They contain compounds that promote healthy skin.

Now that you know about some of the health benefits of pumpkin, why not try this tasty gluten free, vegan Creamy Pumpkin Soup recipe. It’s healthy, easy to prepare and delicious. Just click the link below to get started!

VEGAN CREAMY PUMPKIN SOUPN (GLUTEN FREE)

Pain Caused By Under-Using Our Muscles

Posted on October 25, 2019 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

One of the most common reasons we experience pain in our joints and muscles is from overuse. Whether it is through overdoing at the gym, at home, or in the yard, we have all experienced pain when we over-exert our muscles but are you aware that you can experience pain by under-using your muscles?

The truth is there can be serious consequences to our bodies from inactivity. In fact, studies have concluded a clear connection between inactivity and chronic pain. This condition has been given the term “disuse syndrome” which refers to the changes that happen in the body as a result of being sedentary or inactive.

Disuse syndrome has been known to cause deterioration of the musculoskeletal system. When a muscle is not being used regularly, the muscle will begin to atrophy, (the process of wasting away, especially as a result of the degeneration of cells). The clearest example of this is when someone has a cast removed from one of their arms or legs. Usually, the immobilized limb is much smaller than the other due to a lack of exercise.

The same logic applies to the other muscles of the body. The less frequently the muscles in our body are used, the smaller and weaker they become. This decrease in muscle mass and strength can lead to chronic pain in the body. Disuse syndrome is a well-known cause of chronic back pain. When the muscles that are meant to hold the weight of the body become weak, the weight of the body falls on the skeletal system, specifically the spine. This can lead to degeneration and chronic back pain.

The best way to avoid or reverse the effects of disuse syndrome is through physical activity. It is also an excellent way to manage and decrease already existing pain. Regular exercise and the proper diet are the essential tools you need to combat chronic pain and maintain your good health.

If you suspect that your pain in your body is the result of disuse syndrome, speak to your doctor about how you can incorporate more physical activity in your lifestyle and reduce your chronic pain.

If you would like to make an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center, please call 718-206-7001.

Red Ribbon Week

Posted on October 23, 2019 by Joann Ariola

The last week in October is Red Ribbon Week. During this week, health care professionals and the National Family Partnership (NFP) raise awareness about drug addiction through the Red Ribbon Campaign.

Did you know that children whose parents talk to them about the dangers of drug abuse are 42% less likely to use drugs? Seems reasonable, then you read the statistics which show less than a quarter of teens in America report having this conversation with their parents or guardians.

To learn more about the Red Ribbon Campaign or if you’d like to take the Drug Free Pledge, visit http://redribbon.org/downloads/.

If you or your loved one is battling addiction, ’s (JHMC) Addiction Services Department, located at (FHMC) can help you navigate this difficult time. If you would like to learn more about what JHMC offers, visit .

Meet Dr. Jebun Nahar

Posted on October 23, 2019 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

Jamaica Hospital would like to introduce you to Dr. Jebun Nahar, MD, FACP; internist in the hospital’s Department of Medicine for 11 years.

Dr. Nahar provides a comprehensive range of primary care services for her patients, but one condition that she is extremely passionate about treating is hypertension. According to Dr. Nahar, “I feel that hypertension is largely preventable and can be managed through lifestyle modifications. If not addressed, it can lead to a variety of other health issues including diabetes and heart disease.”

Dr. Nahar believes in developing a close connection with her patients that is based on trust. She also feels that her years of experience and her understanding of the community’s needs help her as a physician. One aspect of working at Jamaica Hospital that particularly appeals to Dr. Nahar is the diverse population that it serves.

One group that has especially benefitted from Dr. Nahar’s expertise is the Bengali population. “As someone who is from Bangladesh, I can relate to and help them with not only their health, but other issues they might be encountering.” She is even a member of multiple physician groups that represent that region including the South Asian IPA and the Bangladesh Medical Association of North America.

In addition to providing high-quality care to her patients, Dr. Nahar also has a love for mentoring the next generation of doctors at Jamaica Hospital and is an active part of the hospital’s teaching faculty.

Dr. Nahar sees patients at the following locations:

TJH Medical Services
134-20 Jamaica Avenue
Jamaica, NY 11418
718-206-6742

Heart Valve Disease

Posted on October 22, 2019 by Xavia Malcolm

Our hearts have four valves: the aortic, mitral, pulmonary and tricuspid valves. They work together to keep blood flowing in the correct direction; through the heart’s chambers and to the rest of the body.

Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of our heart valves do not work properly, disrupting the flow of blood throughout our bodies. This disease can be congenital (developing before birth) or acquired (developing after birth). Heart valve disease can lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart failure, blood clots, heart rhythms abnormalities or death.

The three main problems encountered in heart valve disease are:

Stenosis- which occurs when the flaps of a heart valve do not fully open due to the thickening of valve tissue. This makes the heart work harder to pump blood which can lead to heart failure. Stenosis can develop as a result of a buildup of calcium or other deposits on the valves.
Regurgitation – this happens when the valve doesn’t close all the way. If our valves do not close correctly this will cause blood to leak backward into the heart and less blood to flow to our bodies.
Atresia- this is present at birth and occurs as a result of the valve not being developed. Instead of a valve, a piece of tissue forms that restricts the flow of blood.

Stenosis and regurgitation can be caused by pre-existing heart conditions, age-related changes, rheumatic fever or infections. There are no known causes for atresia.

Some people with heart valve disease may not experience symptoms during the early stages of the disease. When symptoms present they can include:

A heart murmur or an unusual heartbeat
Heart palpitations
Fatigue
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Fainting
Swollen ankles, feet or belly

Several factors can increase the risk of heart valve disease. Risk factors include:

Older age ( As you age your heart valves become stiffer and thicker)
A history of infective endocarditis
Rheumatic fever resulting from an untreated strep infection
Heart conditions present at birth
Atherosclerosis (buildup of plaque inside the arteries), heart attack, advanced heart failure or other conditions that can cause harm to the heart valves

If you are experiencing symptoms of heart valve disease, you should inform your doctor. A physical examination will be conducted during which your doctor will listen for a heart murmur. Your doctor may order a series of diagnostic tests such as an echocardiography, chest X-ray, cardiac MRI or electrocardiogram to evaluate your heart’s health.

Treatment for heart valve disease may include surgery or medications. Your doctor will most likely recommend that you make heart-healthy lifestyle changes.

To schedule an appointment with a cardiologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7100.

Dr. Urielle Marseille Shares Facts About Hand Foot and Mouth Disease

Posted on October 18, 2019 by Urielle Marseille

Now that we are approaching the colder seasons, one of the most common rashes to occur in younger children around this time of year is hand-foot-and-mouth disease.

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a viral infection often caused by coxsackieviruses or other enteroviruses. As the name suggests, this rash tends to appear on children’s hands, feet, and mouths; however, it can also appear on other parts of their bodies. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease typically occurs in children younger than 10 years old during the fall and winter seasons.

Symptoms of hand-foot-and-mouth disease include:

Low-grade fever -typically a temperature around 100.4 F
Rash- usually multiple pimples with some redness. A rash may present on the palms of children’s hands and the soles of their feet. A rash can also appear on their torsos and legs.
Ulcers in the back of the mouth, resulting in a sore throat which may keep your child from drinking and eating.

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease does not pose any immediate danger to your child. It is self-limiting, meaning it usually resolves on its own. However, parents need to know that the infection is contagious. It can spread to other children and adults. The most contagious period is in the first week. The virus spreads by contact with contaminated feces, saliva or respiratory droplets.

Here are a few things you can do to prevent transmission:

Keep your child home from school for at least a week
Isolate children who are infected
Have everyone at home wash their hands before eating or drinking
Do not share cups and utensils
Parents must wash their hands after every diaper change. Also, be sure to wipe changing table surfaces

As soon as you notice a rash, take your child to see a doctor. Treatment will be focused on making your child feel comfortable. Your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce fevers and alleviate other symptoms. Make sure that your child is eating and drinking,

There are rarely severe complications associated with hand-foot-and-mouth disease; however, if your child experiences vomiting, trouble breathing, a fever is higher than 101 F or difficulty standing; you should take them to the emergency room right away.

If you have questions about hand-foot-and-mouth disease and would like to schedule an appointment with a Family Medicine doctor, please call 718- 206-6942.

Jamaica Hospital Offers Facts About Cold Sores

Posted on October 17, 2019 by Michael Hinck

Cold sores are small fluid filled blisters, also known as fever blisters, that are develop on or near the mouth and the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Cold sores are highly contagious and are spread by coming in close contact with secretions from the blisters or sharing utensils or other personal hygiene items with an infected person. It is important to keep in mind that the virus can spread even when an infected person does not have a cold sore.

A cold sore usually develops in several stages during an outbreak. The stages of a cold sore are:

1 Tingling and itching near the mouth
2 Formation of a fluid filled blister
3 The blister breaks
4 Scab forms
5 Scab falls off and sore heals

Additional symptoms a person may experience during an outbreak include:

Headache
Sore throat
Muscle aches
Swollen lymph nodes

There are several factors that can cause a cold sore to develop or reoccur if a person has already had an outbreak in the past: These include:

Stress
Fatigue
Eating certain foods
Having a cold
Allergic reaction

The diagnosis of a cold sore can usually be made by visual inspection. It is also possible to do a blood test to see if the virus is present.

There are no cures for a cold sore but there are ways to treat the symptoms. Antiviral medications are often prescribed and there re over the counter medications treatment available to purchase.

Speak to your physician if you think you have a cold sore and it doesn’t start to heal in two weeks. You can also schedule an appointmrnt with a physician at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling 718-206-7001.

Laser Eye Surgery

Posted on October 8, 2019 by Xavia Malcolm

Laser eye surgery is one of the most popular, elective vision correction surgery procedures performed in the United States. It is estimated that over 10 million people have received laser eye surgery since it was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1999.

While there are different types of laser eye surgery procedures, laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is the most commonly utilized to correct the vision of people who are nearsighted, farsighted or diagnosed with astigmatism. LASIK surgery involves the use of a laser to reshape the tissue underneath the cornea, allowing it to focus light properly and improve vision.

Other types of laser eye procedures include photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) eye surgery- best for those with mild or moderate vision problems and laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK)-a good option for those with thin corneas or at an increased risk for eye injuries.

LASIK remains the most commonly performed procedure due to its efficiency and the potential benefits patients could receive. These benefits may include:

Shorter recovery times
Improved vision
Long-lasting results
Eliminating or minimizing the need for contacts or glasses.

Along with the benefits, there are certain complications patients should consider before opting for surgery. Although rare, complications can include:

Dry eyes
Glares, halos or double vision
Discomfort
Dry eyes
Flap problems
Infection
Overcorrection, undercorrection or regression of vision

Choosing an experienced doctor can minimize the risk of complications. According to the FDA, if you are considering surgery; you should compare doctors (choose surgeons who have performed several procedures and meet industry standards). Do not base your decision simply on cost, and be wary of eye centers that guarantee 20/20 vision.

To speak with an eye doctor at Jamaica Hospital about laser surgery, please call 718 206-5900.

Grilled Chicken Taco Salad Recipe

Posted on October 8, 2019 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

It’s TacoTuesday and today we’re making a healthy Grilled Chicken Taco Salad with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette.

This is a quick dinner recipe shared by Chef Peter Ieraci from our Nutritional Services Department. It’s delicious and easy to make. Enjoy!

Salad Ingredients:

Cilantro

Grilled chicken

Corn tortilla chips

Shredded cheddar

Diced tomatoes

Cucumbers

Corn

Limes

Red Onions

Black beans

Lettuce

Sour cream -optional on top

To make the salad dressing you will need :

2 cups fresh cilantro

1 garlic clove

¼ cup lime juice

2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey

½ teaspoon ground coriander

½ teaspoon sea salt

½ cup extra-virgin olive oil