Yoga

Posted on October 1, 2014 by Andrew Rubin

Developed in India thousands of years ago, Yoga is a form of exercise that has gained popularity tremendously over the past 50 years.

Yoga teaches increased flexibility by learning how to stretch your muscles. This can help a person improve mobility, feel less tired and improve their posture.

• Some of the other benefits of yoga are:

• Improved immunity

• Ease migraines

• Improve sexual performance

• Better sleep

• Improve eating habits

Yoga can help you to feel calmer and more relaxed. This is because some forms of yoga teach techniques that focus on breathing.

It has also been shown to lower blood pressure and to lower the heart rate. This can greatly help people who have been diagnosed with heart disease and who either have had a stroke or at risk of having a stroke.

It usually takes a few weeks to start seeing the benefits of yoga. When looking for yoga classes, find an instructor who has proper training and who is certified to teach the class. It can be practiced by just about anyone, and it isn’t just for people who are in good physical condition.

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.

Ways to Quit Smoking

Posted on September 24, 2014 by Andrew Rubin

Would you like to quit smoking but don’t know which method is the best for you?

Smoking cessation methods all have positive and negative attributes. There is no guarantee that any one way is better than any other. Some of the methods available are:

• Behavioral Modification – this is an important method because it involves educating people who want to quit and learn about the health benefits of smoking cessation. Some of the behavioral techniques include keeping a diary of when the person needs a cigarette, smoking only half a cigarette, waiting 5 minutes after the urge hits before reaching for a cigarette, and avoiding situations or places that trigger the desire to have a cigarette.

• Cold Turkey – This technique is good for a first attempt. The level of success can vary and is often dependent on the person’s determination to achieve the goal. It also is the least expensive way of quitting. This method usually works best for people who are casual smokers, have a low nicotine dependence, and who smoke less than ten cigarettes a day.

• Nicotine Patch – This technique is often the first choice for people who are tying to quit smoking. It is relatively safe to use and isn’t very expensive. Some side effects include skin rash and vivid dreams. The patch is usually used for six to eight weeks.

• Nicotine Gum – This is another popular technique that people will try when they want to quit smoking. It is more expensive than the patch and a person has to be willing to chew a lot of gum throughout the day in order to keep the medication at a constant level in the body. It isn’t as quick acting as some of the other techniques. Nicotine gum comes in two strengths, 2 mg and 4 mg, and the higher dose is best for people who are heavy smokers. Some of the side effects can be sore mouth, hiccups, and nausea.

• Burpropion – Zyban – The first non nicotine product for smoking cessation. This is a pill that can be used in addition to the nicotine patch. A person starts taking this medication for one to two weeks before their intended quit date. It should not be used for more than 12 weeks. The side effects can include headaches, insomnia, dry mouth and rhinitis.

• Nasal Spray – This is a good method for people who did not have success with the patch or the gum. It is quick acting and good for people who are heavy smokers. It is very expensive and not much more effective than the other modalities.

Smoking cessation can be difficult to achieve with just one attempt. Studies have shown though that people who have higher rates of success are under a physicians care and guidance in this process. To schedule an appointment with a specialist at Jamaica Hospital to discuss the best options for you, please call 718-206-6742.

Back to School Safety Tips

Posted on September 17, 2014 by Andrew Rubin

As summer draws to an end and the start of the school year begins, road travel increases. This can be a dangerous time of year, especially for children.

Many children rely on walking, riding a bicycle, or taking a bus to and from school. Fewer daylight hours can make it harder for motorists to see these young students. Take advantage of the following tips to strengthen your traffic safety knowledge:

Car:
• All passengers should wear a seat belt.
• All children should ride in an age- and size-appropriate car safety seat or booster seat. until the vehicle’s seat belt fits properly (usually when the child reaches about 4′ 9” and is between eight to 12 years of age).

School Bus:

•   Children should always board and exit the bus at locations that provide safe access to the curb or to the school building.
•   Remind your child to wait for the bus to stop before approaching it from the curb.
•   Make sure your child walks where they can see the bus driver (which means the driver will be able to see them too).
•   Remind your child to look both ways to see that no other traffic is coming before crossing the street.

Walking:
• Make sure your child’s walk to school follows a safe route with trained crossing guards at every intersection.
• If your children are young or are walking to a new school, walk with them the first week or until you are sure they know the route and can do it safely.
• Bright-colored clothing will make your child more visible to drivers.
Bike:
• Always wear a bicycle helmet, no matter how short or long the ride.
• Ride on the right, in the same direction as auto traffic.
• Respect traffic lights and stop signs.
Following these simple rules can help to prevent accidents and will keep you and children safe.

History of Physical Therapy

Posted on September 10, 2014 by Andrew Rubin

The American Physical Therapy Association defines physical therapy as the treatment or management of pain or physical disabilities without the use of medication, surgery, or radiation. Some of the methods of physical therapy include massage, exercise and hydrotherapy.

The practice of physical therapy has been documented for thousands of years with Hippocrates using it for the treatment of physical disabilities. In more modern times, physical therapy became widely used to treat injured war veterans returning from W.W. I. In the early 1920’s, physical therapy was used to treat people afflicted with polio in order to help their mobility.

Physical therapy is commonly used for:

• Back conditions

• Neck problems

• Shoulder and arm problems

• People who have undergone hip or knee replacement

• Stroke patients
• Post-op rehabilitation

Starting in the 1980’s physical therapy became more high tech through the use of computers and more advanced equipment that assisted in the process. Some of the more modern modalities developed during the past 20 years include ultrasound, electric stimulators, and cold laser therapy.

Most patients who receive physical therapy are referred by their orthopedic doctors or rheumatologists. If you have a condition that you feel may be helped by physical therapy, please contact the physical medicine department at 718-206- 7140 for an appointment.

Fad Diets

Posted on September 4, 2014 by Andrew Rubin

How often do we say we need to lose 10 – 20 pounds quickly? We want to look good at the big party coming up and we are willing to try anything to make that happen. Fad dieting is a concept that has been around for a long time. The methods may change, but the goal is usually the same.

The results for fad diets are only temporary. They don’t focus on helping a person maintain the ideal weight, and in some instances can actually cause harm. Many of these diets are not well balanced nutritionally. They don’t include a variety of food types, or in the proper quantity, to maintain good health long term.

Some of the principles include:

• Controlled carbohydrates

• Low fat/ high carbohydrates

• Controlled portion size

• Diet pills

• Herbal remedies

• Liquid protein

Weight loss is something that should be done gradually and in a manner that is tailored to a person’s individual nutritional needs. A person who wants to lose weight should always consult with their physician before attempting a diet plan. To speak to a physician at Jamaica Hospital about a weight loss program, you can call 718-206-6742 to schedule an appointment with an internal medicine specialist. They may then recommend that you follow up with a professional nutritionist to tailor a diet to help you meet your goal.

Colon Cleansing

Posted on August 28, 2014 by Andrew Rubin

Colon Cleansing

What do you know about colon cleansing?

The colon is the end portion of the intestinal tract that is very important for the absorption of fluids and electrolytes from the digestive tract and stores waste products for elimination. It is typically about three to four feet in length and two to three inches in diameter.

Traditional medical doctors feel that the body has its own way of regulating what goes in and what comes out. Doctors today will tell you that the only time you need to clean out your colon is prior to undergoing a colonoscopy or a surgical procedure that involves the intestinal tract. Medical professionals feel that this part of the body takes care of itself.

People who chose to have colon cleansings will often say that they feel much healthier after the treatment. Some of the reasons they have the procedure is to remove toxins that may accumulate in the colon, improve their bowel regularity, and improve their overall health. Colon cleansings have been used for centuries, but less frequently now than years ago.

A colonic cleansing consists of inserting a tube into the rectum and slowly sending warm, filtered water through this tube, expanding the colon. The body’s normal response is to expel this fluid, along with any waste products that may have accumulated in this area, back through the tube to an external container.

Colon cleansing can sometimes be very dangerous. Side effects include:

 Risk of dehydration

 Potential for infection

 Cramping, bloating, nausea and vomiting

 Potential for puncturing the bowel

 Loss of intestinal flora (needed for proper digestion)

People who should not have a colon cleansing are: women who are pregnant, people with heart conditions, anemic, have abdominal hernias, have ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and hemorrhoids. If you are considering having a colon cleansing, speak with your physician first to see if they think it is beneficial. Keep in mind that while the USDA regulates the production of the equipment used in colon cleansing, it does not regulate how it is used. Caution should be taken if a person makes the decision to have this type of treatment.

Postpartum Depression

Posted on August 20, 2014 by Andrew Rubin

Did you know that women who have just given birth can experience a form of depression? It may sound strange since childbirth is supposed to be a wonderful time in person’s life, but it does happen, more frequently than you might expect.

After giving birth, it is not uncommon for a woman to feel sad, anxious, tired, have difficulty sleeping, and have occasional mood swings. These symptoms usually don’t last more than a week or two and are often referred to as having the “Baby Blues.”
Postpartum depression lasts longer, is more intense, and can affect a mother’s general health.

There are several factors that can lead to postpartum depression. After childbirth, hormone levels change dramatically causing a woman to feel tired and depressed. There are also changes in blood pressure, blood volume and metabolism that can all contribute to mood swings and depression. A diagnosis of clinical postpartum depression usually means that the symptoms started within 4 weeks of giving birth.

Common signs and symptoms of postpartum depression are:

• Loss of appetite

• Intense irritability

• Severe mood swings

• Difficulty bonding with the baby

• Insomnia

• Constant feeling of fatigue

In an extreme form, post partum depression can lead to post partum psychosis. In this condition a woman may try to harm herself or her baby, become paranoid, have hallucinations, or may become disoriented.

Some of the risk factors of postpartum depression include having a history of depression, relationship problems with the father of the child, financial struggles, and having experienced this after a prior child’s birth..

Children of women who suffer from the long term effects of untreated postpartum depression may exhibit behavioral problems, have frequent temper tantrums and may develop sleeping and eating disorders.

Treatment for postpartum depression determined by the severity of the symptoms. When the symptoms are very mild, it may resolve with plenty of rest and support from family and friends. In more severe situations psychiatric care may be necessary as well as medication. Antidepressants are sometimes given, however, if the mother is breast feeding, it is important that the doctor be made aware of this. Hormone therapy can also be used to balance the sudden drop in estrogen which takes place after childbirth.

After giving birth, it is important to get plenty of rest, eat a well balanced diet, have people around who can help out and most importantly, plan activities that allow them to enjoy being mothers.

Medical Marijuana

Posted on August 13, 2014 by Andrew Rubin

For centuries marijuana has been used to cure various ailments. Does it work ?

Throughout ancient history, marijuana has been used for medicinal purposes. The Chinese Emperor Shen Nung, known as the father of Chinese medicine, discussed the healing properties of marijuana in 2700 BC. The Egyptians used it for glaucoma and inflammation as early as 1200 BC. In 1000 BC, marijuana was used inIndiaas an anesthetic. It was also used in treating leprosy, reducing fevers, as a cure for dysentery and to help people sleep. As time progressed, more and more benefits of marijuana were described all over the world.

In the late 1700’s George Washington grew marijuana on his plantation for his troops. At about the same time, Napoleon brought it fromEgypttoFrancefor medicinal purposes. In 1840 QueenVictoriaofEnglandsaid that it was a good way to treat menstrual cramps and for inducing labor. In 1925 theLeague of Nationssaid that marijuana should only be used for medicinal purposes. In 1937, the government of theUnited Statesenacted the Marijuana Tax Act which by means of taxing producers, sellers and buyers was an attempt to control its use. By then, most states had already made laws criminalizing the possession and sale of marijuana.

In 1970, The United States adopted the Controlled Substance Act which classified marijuana as a drug and determined that it should not be allowed for medicinal purposes. Though people have been saying for centuries that marijuana has medicinal benefits, there now seems to be real scientific evidence that marijuana really does work. It is a slow process but some states have decided to allow marijuana use for medicinal purposes, and on July 5^th New York State became the 23^rd state to legalize medical marijuana.

Your Spinning World Could be Due to Vertigo.

Posted on August 7, 2014 by Andrew Rubin

Have you ever experienced dizziness or a spinning sensation when in fact everything is standing still? You may have experienced vertigo.

Vertigo can cause a person to feel light headed, off balance, spinning, seeing double, or as though they are falling. In severe cases it can be accompanied by nausea, difficulty walking, or loss of balance.

Vertigo is often related to a problem within the inner ear. It may be due to a buildup of fluid and changing pressure (Meniere’s disease), or due to an accumulation of tiny calcium particles called canaliths in the canals of the inner ear ( BPPV or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo). It may also be caused by an infection, usually viral, in the inner ear. All of these conditions can lead to loss of balance.

Symptoms of vertigo:

 A sensation of movement accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sweating..

 Head positioning leading to dizziness

 Ringing in the ears and changes in hearing

 Abnormal eye movement

 Symptoms that are fairly constant in regularity
A [physician can diagnose vertigo through physical examination that may include a CT scan of the head to see if there are any brain injuries blood tests to see if the blood glucose is normal and an EKG to see if the heart rhythm is normal.

Frequently the symptoms of vertigo will resolve by themselves. Depending on the cause, some form of medical treatment may be necessary. When the cause is due to an infection, medications may be prescribed to cure it, and sometimes steroids will be given to reduce the inflammation. If the problem is being caused by a buildup of fluid in the ear, medication may be prescribed to help reduce it. If vertigo is being caused by an accumulation of tiny calcium crystals, a series of head and neck positioning exercises may be given to help move them out of the inner ear into a location where they can be more easily absorbed by the body. In extreme cases of vertigo, surgery may be needed to resolve the problem.

If you are experiencing symptoms of vertigo and would like to schedule an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat specialist, please call 718-206-6742.

Vertigo

Posted on August 7, 2014 by Andrew Rubin

Have you ever experienced dizziness or a spinning sensation when in fact everything is standing still? You may have experienced vertigo.

Symptoms of vertigo:

A sensation of movement accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sweating..
Head positioning leading to dizziness
Ringing in the ears and changes in hearing
Abnormal eye movement
Symptoms that are fairly constant in regularity

A physician can diagnose vertigo through physical examination that may include a CT scan of the head to see if there are any brain injuries blood tests to see if the blood glucose is normal and an EKG to see if the heart rhythm is normal.

If you are experiencing symptoms of vertigo and would like to schedule an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat specialist, please call 718-206-6742.