How To Tell the Difference Between Everyday Fatigue and Anemia

Posted on September 21, 2026 by Xavia Malcolm

We have all experienced tiredness or normal exhaustion at several points in our lives. However, when these feelings persist, it often means we are fatigued.

Everyday fatigue is characterized by an ongoing lack of energy and other symptoms that may include:

Brain fog
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Emotional overwhelm
Anxiety

Fatigue can be caused by several factors such as:

Medications
Poor diet
Stress
Sedentary lifestyle
Sleep disorders
Influenza (the flu)
Pneumonia

Everyday fatigue is usually temporary and may go away with rest, sleep, or stress reduction. Fatigue that lasts for several weeks and interferes with daily life should not be ignored because it may signal an underlying medical condition.

Ongoing fatigue is often associated with anemia. Unlike everyday fatigue, anemia-related fatigue results from a lack of healthy red blood cells. Additionally, anemia-related fatigue does not improve with rest and affects multiple body systems because they lack adequate oxygen. Here are a few symptoms that may result from that:

Pale skin
Cold hands or feet
Shortness of breath
Low stamina
Frequent headaches
Restless leg syndrome
Persistent tiredness, even after getting sufficient sleep
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Heart palpitations
Brain fog
Unusual cravings
Brittle nails
Thinning hair

See a doctor if you experience these symptoms. Doctors diagnose anemia with a blood test called a Complete Blood Count (CBC), which measures hemoglobin and red blood cell levels. Your doctor may also order a ferritin blood test to check how much iron is stored in your body.

Treatment for anemia depends on the underlying issue. Treatment may include managing the underlying condition, medications that stimulate red blood cell production or suppress the immune system, intravenous (IV) iron therapy, bone marrow or cell transplants, iron or vitamin supplementation, or dietary changes that include key nutrients.

To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical 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.

Dermatologic Treatments for Oily Skin

Posted on September 15, 2026 by Xavia Malcolm

Oily skin is a common skin type that occurs when the body’s sebaceous (oil) glands produce excess sebum, making skin look shiny.

Other characteristics of oily skin include pores that appear open or enlarged, especially on the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), greasy-feeling skin, a tendency toward breakouts, and a thicker dermis layer compared with other skin types.

Although oily skin can lead to breakouts and other cosmetic problems, having oily skin does have a few advantages:

Oil helps keep the skin hydrated and prevents excessive dryness
Oily skin tends to look more supple because it retains water better than dry skin
Fine lines and wrinkles may become noticeable later when compared to dry skin
The skin barrier can be more resilient against environmental stressors.

Oily skin can be caused by several factors, including:

Hormonal changes
Genetics
Using products that are not suitable for your skin
Overwashing skin
Environmental factors such as climate and weather (hot and humid environments may increase skin oiliness)
Age (teenagers and young adults tend to produce more oil than older adults)
Stress

The American Academy of Dermatology says the key to managing oily skin is balancing the skin’s natural moisture without stripping it. The goal is to keep your skin barrier healthy while reducing excess sebum. This balance can be achieved by following a daily routine that may include:

Gently washing your skin twice a day with a mild foaming face wash or cleanser. It is recommended that you avoid using oil-based or alcohol-based cleansers
Using a lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer
Using products containing ingredients that help regulate oil such as niacinamide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, or retinoids
Using oil-free, water-based makeup
Wearing sunscreen

Dermatologists recommend sticking to a consistent and simple routine. They may also emphasize good skin hygiene, such as not sleeping in your makeup, avoiding touching your face, and not picking pimples.

If oily skin persists, suddenly worsens, or is accompanied by significant acne, consult a dermatologist to identify underlying causes and recommend a personalized treatment plan. Treatment may involve topical prescriptions, hormonal medications, or in-office procedures such as chemical peels or laser and light-based treatments.

To schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.

How Does Anesthesia Work?

Posted on August 4, 2026 by Xavia Malcolm

What is anesthesia?

Anesthesia is the use of anesthetics, which are medications that prevent a person from feeling pain during operations or other medical procedures.

Anesthetics work by blocking pain or sensation in the body or putting the brain to sleep. These medications can be given intravenously through an IV, inhaled, injected, taken orally, or applied topically.

Types of anesthesia and how they work

There are four main types of anesthesia, and each works differently by temporarily blocking pain signals between your body and your brain. They include:

General anesthesia – makes you completely unconscious (you are put in a complete medically induced sleep). The anesthetics given affect the whole body and stop pain and awareness. They also prevent movement and memory formation during surgery. General anesthesia is typically administered by IV or inhaled as a gas and is used during major operations such as heart surgery or abdominal surgery. Breathing support and monitoring of vital functions are required during surgery.
Regional anesthesia – works by numbing a large area of the body, such as the arm, shoulder, or the lower half of the body. You may remain awake or receive mild sedation during a procedure in which regional anesthesia is given. Regional anesthesia is administered by injecting medication near a cluster of nerves. This temporarily prevents pain signals from that region of the body from reaching the brain. Regional anesthesia is used for childbirth (an epidural) or targeted orthopedic surgeries on the hand or feet.
Local anesthesia numbs a small, specific part of the body. These medications work by preventing local nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. You are awake and alert during procedures in which local anesthesia is given. Local anesthetics can be administered by injections or applied topically as sprays, gels, or ointments. They are commonly used during dental procedures, skin biopsies, minor plastic surgery, or stitching a wound on your skin.
Sedation – helps you to relax or makes you feel sleepy without necessarily causing complete unconsciousness. Sedatives are often given to reduce anxiety or decrease awareness. You can usually breathe on your own and may or may not remember the procedure. Sedatives can be administered by IV, injection, or pills or liquids taken by mouth, and are used during dental procedures, colonoscopies, or minor surgeries. A trained healthcare provider will monitor your vitals while you are sedated.

Types of anesthesiology professionals

Modern anesthesia is considered very safe when it is administered by trained professionals. Medical professionals involved in this process include anesthesiologists, who are medical doctors specializing in anesthesia, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), who are nurses with advanced training in anesthesia, and Certified Anesthesiologist Assistants (CAAs), who assist anesthesiologists. These skilled individuals work together to ensure your safety during the procedure.

What Is Cyclosporiasis?

Posted on July 21, 2026 by Xavia Malcolm

Reports of a cyclosporiasis outbreak in multiple states have been making headlines. Thousands of cases have been reported. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently investigating the outbreak to determine the source of the illness.

What is cyclosporiasis?

According to the CDC, cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, also known as Cyclospora.

Cyclosporiasis occurs more commonly in tropical or subtropical regions of the world, particularly in places where sanitation and water treatment may be limited. The parasite that causes the illness is endemic in parts of Central and South America, South and Southeast Asia, and some areas of the Middle East and Africa.

Cyclosporiasis is typically uncommon in the United States when compared to other foodborne illnesses caused by germs such as Salmonella. Though uncommon, outbreaks can happen, especially during the spring and summer months.

Outbreaks in the past have been linked to domestic and imported fresh produce (especially those eaten raw), including raspberries, pre-washed bagged green salad mixes, snow peas, cilantro, and basil.

What are the signs and symptoms of cyclosporiasis?

The CDC shares that the main symptom of cyclosporiasis is loud, watery (explosive) diarrhea. Other symptoms can include:

Severe stomach cramps
Nausea
Vomiting
Bloating
Increased gas
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Low-grade fever
Prolonged fatigue
Body aches

These symptoms can appear after the incubation period, which, according to the CDC, can be 2 to 14 days. The incubation period is the time between ingesting the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite and the onset of symptoms.

How does cyclosporiasis spread?

Transmission occurs through the fecal-oral route. Individuals become infected by ingesting contaminated food or water. Contamination frequently occurs when water supplies are tainted by fecal matter or when unwashed hands spread the parasite during food preparation.

Cyclosporiasis Prevention

The CDC reports that the best way to prevent infection is to avoid food or water that may be contaminated with stool. You can reduce the risk of exposure by following food and vegetable handling recommendations, such as:

Washing your hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables
Washing all raw fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating or preparing
Washing produce that has been labeled as prewashed
Thoroughly cleaning all food preparation surfaces and utensils with hot water and soap, or cleaning solutions
Scrubbing firm fruits and vegetables, such as watermelons, with a clean produce brush
Cutting away bruised and damaged sections of fruits and vegetables before preparing or eating
Cooking produce to a temperature of at least 158 °F (70°C)
Refrigerating cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables within two hours.
When eating out, drink only sealed or bottled water and avoid tap water, or ice made from tap water
Avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables that you have not prepared

When to see a doctor

You should see your doctor right away if you are experiencing symptoms, especially several bouts of watery diarrhea each day. Your doctor can diagnose cyclosporiasis by ordering a stool test. Treatment for the infection is antibiotics. Your healthcare provider will also encourage you to drink plenty of fluids and to stay home if you feel sick.

To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.

Managing Diabetes In The Summer Heat

Posted on July 14, 2026 by Xavia Malcolm

How Does Hot Weather Affect Diabetes?

Extreme summer weather can negatively affect our health. The combination of high temperatures and humidity can be dangerous, especially for those living with diabetes.

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing heat-related illnesses than others. They are more vulnerable because high temperatures can change how the body uses insulin. High temperatures can cause blood vessels to dilate, accelerating insulin absorption and therefore leading to a drop in blood glucose.

Furthermore, high heat can lead to dehydration. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that people with diabetes get dehydrated more quickly than those who do not have the condition. This risk is driven by the following factors:

Having high blood sugar levels leads to frequent urination, causing dehydration
Diabetes can affect the body’s cooling system (Diabetes may damage the nerves that control sweat glands and blood vessels, making it harder for the body to regulate temperature, increasing the likelihood of overheating and dehydration)
Many people with diabetes also take medications such as diuretics for high blood pressure; these medications increase fluid loss and the risk of dehydration.

Lastly, extreme heat can also damage diabetic medications, such as insulin, as well as medical devices, including insulin pumps and blood sugar monitors.

Safety tips for managing diabetes in the heat

Following these precautions can help protect your health this summer, so you can enjoy the weather:

Stay hydrated- drink plenty of water (even if you don’t feel thirsty) and avoid or limit sugary drinks, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages
Keep medications, supplies, and devices out of the heat and store them in a cool place
Check your blood glucose levels regularly
Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours
Dress for the weather by wearing clothing that keeps you cool
Wear sunscreen

Most importantly, pay attention to the signs of heat-related illnesses and diabetic complications. Look for symptoms such as hot, dry skin with no sweating, rapid breathing, dizziness, nausea, extreme thirst, blurred vision, and headaches. If you notice any of these symptoms, take appropriate action, and when in doubt, seek immediate medical attention.

Dispelling PTSD Myths

Posted on June 16, 2026 by Xavia Malcolm

Knowing the facts about post-traumatic stress disorder is crucial because it helps to dismantle stigmas and confusion surrounding the disorder.

PTSD is a mental health condition that develops in people who have witnessed or experienced terrifying, traumatic, or significant life-changing events, such as natural disasters, car accidents, sexual assault, or combat.

According to the National Center for PTSD, the disorder affects approximately 5% of adults living in the United States in any given year.

Each person experiences PTSD in their own way. They may experience any of the symptoms that fall within the following four categories:

Intrusion: Having intrusive thoughts such as repeated, unwanted, or distressing memories of the triggering event; reliving or having flashbacks of the traumatic event; or having nightmares about the event.
Avoidance: Avoiding reminders of the event, including activities, places, people, objects, or situations. Avoiding thinking or talking about traumatic events.
Changes in mood and thinking: Feeling ongoing sadness, guilt, or shame; having trouble remembering key details of the traumatic event, having ongoing negative thoughts about oneself and others, feeling detached from others, or being disinterested in activities once enjoyed.
Changes in arousal and reactivity: Having trouble concentrating, having trouble sleeping, being irritable or having angry outbursts, displaying aggressive, reckless, or destructive behavior, or being hypervigilant.

While the facts about PTSD have been established, harmful myths about PTSD persist. Here are some inaccurate ideas people may have about the disorder:

Myth: Only military veterans experience PTSD

Truth: Anyone, including children, can develop PTSD

Myth: Having PTSD means you are weak or broken

Truth: PTSD is a medical condition that involves changes in how our brain responds to extreme stress. It is not a character flaw and has nothing to do with mental strength.

Myth: PTSD occurs immediately after a traumatic event

Truth: The symptoms of PTSD may not manifest or present right away. It is common for the effects of PTSD to remain dormant for months or years before surfacing.

Myth: PTSD only occurs after extremely traumatic events

Truth: Trauma is subjective and manifests differently for every individual. What counts as trauma for one person may look different for another; therefore, no one’s experiences should be minimized.

Myth: People with PTSD are violent or dangerous

Truth: Most individuals with PTSD are not violent. In fact, they are more likely to experience avoidance and withdrawal. Many can lead normal lives and understand their responses with proper care and support.

Myth: Once you have PTSD, you’ll always have it

Truth: PTSD is a treatable medical condition. People can recover significantly with a treatment plan that can involve therapy, medication, or support systems.

Myths and misconceptions surrounding PTSD can make those who are affected feel isolated and delay treatment. Understanding the facts helps reduce stigma and encourages people to seek help.

To schedule an appointment with a licensed mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718- 206-5575.

Glucose Tolerance Test

Posted on June 15, 2026 by Xavia Malcolm

A glucose tolerance test is a medical lab test used to measure how effectively our bodies process sugar after a meal. It helps healthcare providers screen for or diagnose conditions such as insulin resistance, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, or gestational diabetes.

The most common and standard glucose tolerance test is an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). However, other screening methods can include a glucose challenge test, used during pregnancy to screen for gestational diabetes, or an intravenous glucose tolerance test, primarily used in research and rarely used as an alternative to OGTT when a patient is unable to process oral glucose.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that a typical oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) involves measuring your blood sugar levels before and after consuming a sweet liquid that contains glucose. You will need to fast overnight before the test, after which your blood will be drawn to measure your fasting blood sugar level. Then, you will drink the glucose solution, and your blood sugar levels will be checked again. These measurements typically occur at the 1-hour, 2-hour, and possibly 3-hour marks after drinking the solution.

After testing, you may resume your normal daily activities. Your physician or healthcare provider should receive your lab results in the next few days. Your test results may fall within the following ranges.

Normal – where blood sugar returns to an expected normal range after drinking the glucose solution
Prediabetes – where blood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough to determine a diabetes diagnosis
Diabetes -where blood sugar levels remain highly elevated

If your results show that you have diabetes, your doctor may determine next steps based on how high your blood sugar levels are. They may want to test again to confirm their findings, request additional testing to check for related conditions, or create a treatment plan that may involve lifestyle changes or medications.

New Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines

Posted on June 11, 2026 by Xavia Malcolm

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recently updated its colorectal cancer screening guidelines, introducing major changes to blood-based and at-home stool testing.

According to the ACS, the updated guidelines reaffirm that screening in average-risk adults begins at age 45 and continues through age 75 for those with a life expectancy greater than 10 years. Key changes in these guidelines include the introduction of new screening technologies and a focus on improving access and adherence to screening.

While the ACS recognizes colonoscopy as the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, it also encourages the use of additional, acceptable screening, including:

The next generation-ng-mt-sDNA test, a stool test taken at home
A mt-sRNA test, a stool test taken at home
Blood-based test options, taken in a doctor’s office (It is important to note that blood tests have been found to be less effective in detecting stage I cancers and advanced precancerous lesions.)

The American Cancer Society emphasizes, all positive results of non-colonoscopy tests must be followed up with timely colonoscopy screening. Acting quickly can help your doctor rule out or confirm colorectal cancer, potentially lowering the risks associated with the advanced stages of the disease.

Colorectal cancer is among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The ACS estimates that over 158,000 people living in the U.S. will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2026. Colorectal cancer is expected to cause about 55,000 deaths this year. Regular screenings can prevent up to 60% of colorectal cancer deaths.

Despite having this knowledge, many people are not getting screened. The ACS reports that 1 in 3 eligible adults are not up to date with screening, and more than 20 million eligible Americans have never been screened.

“By offering more screening tools in our guideline update, more eligible adults will be able to participate in lifesaving colorectal cancer testing, helping to close the screening gap and catch more cancers at an earlier, treatable stage,” states the ACS.

If you are interested in learning more about colorectal cancer screening and your eligibility, speak with your doctor. To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.

Different Types of Asthma

Posted on May 5, 2026 by Xavia Malcolm

Asthma is a chronic respiratory illness that causes airways to become inflamed, swollen, and narrow, making breathing difficult. It affects millions of people living in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 26 million people in America have asthma.

Asthma isn’t a single disease but rather a group of related conditions with shared symptoms, which include:

Wheezing
Shortness of breath
Cough
Chest tightness
Mucus production

Asthma is categorized into different types based on severity and triggers. Some common clinical types of asthma are:

Allergic asthma – triggered by allergens such as pollen
Non-allergic asthma – triggered by non-allergens such as stress or irritants such as smoke or weather
Exercise-induced asthma- occurs when airways narrow during physical activity, especially in dry or cold air
Occupational asthma -caused by exposure to irritants such as chemicals, dust, or fumes at the workplace
Aspirin‑Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD)- triggered by aspirin or other NSAIDs
Cough-variant asthma- where a chronic dry cough is the only or primary symptom, lasting weeks
Nighttime asthma – where symptoms worsen at night or early morning

Your doctor may evaluate your medical history, symptoms, and triggers to diagnose your type of asthma. Testing may include allergy tests, sputum, or lung function tests.

Treatment for asthma may vary by type. They may include inhaled corticosteroids, biologic therapies, allergy medications, a bronchodilator used before exercise, trigger avoidance, avoidance of aspirin or NSAIDs, or rescue inhalers.

To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206- 7001.

Nearsightedness

Posted on April 28, 2026 by Xavia Malcolm

Myopia, or nearsightedness, occurs when the eyeball grows too long or oval-shaped rather than round. People living with myopia can see objects that are near but have trouble seeing objects that are farther away. It is estimated that more than 40% of adults living in the United States have myopia. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, nearsightedness has been on the rise for several decades.

Nearsightedness typically begins in childhood or adolescence. It progresses during childhood and the teen years, then stabilizes in adulthood. The primary cause of nearsightedness is axial myopia, which is caused by the eye being too long from front to back. Because of this extra length, light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina rather than directly on it, causing distant objects to appear blurry. This eye elongation can be driven by the following risk factors:

Genetics passed down from parents. If one or both parents have myopia, a person has an increased chance of developing the condition
Ethnicity – some ethnic groups are more at risk than others
Limited outdoor time – not spending enough time outdoors
Doing close-up activities, or near-vision work, such as reading or viewing screens for extended periods

People who are nearsighted may experience symptoms such as:

Difficulty seeing objects far away
Eye strain
Squinting
Headaches
Tiredness when doing certain activities, such as driving

If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is recommended that you see an eye specialist. Your eye doctor can diagnose myopia by conducting a comprehensive eye examination.

Myopia is permanent; however, in most cases, vision can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, laser procedures such as LASIK or LASEK, lens implants, or vision therapy. People living with pathological myopia, which is a severe and progressive form of the condition, may not be able to have their vision corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses.

At Jamaica Hospital Department of Ophthalmology, we are passionate about providing patient-centered adult and pediatric care. To schedule an appointment, please call 718-206-5900.