Taking Medication While Breastfeeding

Posted on November 9, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Breastfeeding mothers are often cautioned to be mindful of the things they eat or drink because whatever they ingest will make its way into their breast milk. The same advice is given for taking medication while breastfeeding.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most medications are transferred in low doses in breast milk and are safe to take. However, it is always recommended that your physician is consulted before doing so because there are exceptions. Some medicines can remain concentrated in breast milk.

Another reason to speak with your doctor is he or she can advise if your baby runs the risk of being affected by medications due to age or health condition. Babies who are premature, newborn or diagnosed with certain chronic health conditions run a high risk of having adverse reactions.

If the medicine you are taking is determined to be unsafe while breastfeeding, your physician may recommend that you stop nursing temporarily or permanently.

It is always good to know if substances you ingest may harm your nursing baby. Always remember to speak with your doctor before taking any medications, dietary supplements or herbal remedies.

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 Control Asthma During a Cold

Posted on November 3, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Colds make us feel miserable and coughing fits tend to bring attention to us at times when we want it least. For most catching a cold is a nuisance but for others with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, colds can be very serious. Colds are one of the most common causes for flare ups in asthmatics. The mildest of cold symptoms can easily lead to wheezing, shortness of breath or trigger asthma attacks.

Taking preventative measures to avoid catching a cold is one of the best recommendations that asthmatics can follow. Some of these precautions include: frequently washing or sanitizing hands, staying away from individuals who have colds and avoiding contact to the eyes and nose.

Even though prevention is highly recommended, during the cold season avoiding a cold is sometimes easier said than done. If you do contract the cold virus there are several things you can do to help control your asthma:

If you are sick stay home and take care of yourself. Staying home can help you avoid environmental factors that could worsen your condition.
Monitor your air flow by frequently using a peak flow meter. If there is a drop in peak flow rates contact your physician to discuss adjustments to medication.
Keep track of changes in your condition and developing asthma symptoms such as wheezing, tightness of the chest or coughing.
Take medication as advised by your doctor.

Following these recommendations can help you manage symptoms and reduce the risk of a serious attack. If your condition continues to get worse after several days, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.

Rare But True-Disorders That Can Turn Your Skin Blue

Posted on October 27, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

The Blue Fugates of Troublesome Creek was an entire family from Eastern Kentucky made up of blue-skinned people. Those who knew the Fugates described them as, “blue all over” and “as blue as Lake Louise.”

The Blue Fugates were famously known for inheriting and passing on the rare gene that causes methemoglobinemia, a blood disorder that produces an abnormally high amount of methemoglobin (a form of hemoglobin). Individuals who have this disease are at risk of developing very dark, almost chocolate- colored blood or blue skin. This is because the hemoglobin that they produce is unable to carry sufficient amounts of oxygen throughout the body and oxygenate tissues.

Methemoglobinemia can be inherited or acquired. Acquired cases are more likely to occur and are usually the result of exposure to certain medications or chemicals such as nitrates, silver or benzocaine.

Symptoms of this rare disease can include:

Bluish colored skin
Seizures
Headaches
Shortness of breath
Fatigue

Another disorder that is known to cause the skin to turn to a bluish or silver hue is argyria. This condition results from extended amounts of contact with silver compounds or the ingestion of silver salts.

People who are potentially at risk of developing this condition are those:

Taking medications with silver salts as an ingredient
Taking colloidal silver as a dietary supplement
Have careers that expose them to silver such as silver mining or refining

Cases of this disorder are extremely rare. Paul Karason famously known as “Papa Smurf,” was one of these few people to develop argryia in recent years. He acquired the disorder by drinking a home-made brew that included colloidal silver and using a silver-based salve on his face. He helped raise awareness of this condition as well as the potentially harmful side effects of ingesting silver-based products.

Here is a video of the interview of “The man who turned blue”.

(Video via OWN network)

Pulmonary Rehab For COPD

Posted on October 26, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a general term that describes progressive respiratory diseases including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is characterized by decreased airflow over time and increased inflammation of the lungs.

A decrease in airflow often results in shortness of breath, which at times makes performing minimal physical activities difficult. One of the most recommended forms of treatments used to improve this issue is pulmonary rehabilitation for COPD. A respiratory therapist can assess the severity of a patient’s condition before enrollment into a program by administering tests such as a pulmonary function test.

This form of treatment involves a series of exercises that teaches people breathing techniques that help them build physical fitness and lung strength.

Most pulmonary rehab programs include:

Exercise-This is one of the key components in pulmonary rehab. Patients are required to do a series of physical activities such as:

Exercises to strengthen and improve breathing muscles
Upper body exercises
Lower body exercises
Strength training

Smoking cessation- In order to improve quality of life and lung function, smoking cessation is often a goal or prerequisite in pulmonary rehab. Quitting is the most important thing a smoker can do to slow the progression of COPD.
Education-Programs offer education in either a group setting or on an individual basis. Education sessions are designed to teach people ways to manage their COPD or include lessons on understanding medication as well as using oxygen therapy.

Patients who participate in pulmonary rehab programs gain several benefits. Most see significant improvement in their breathing. It is suggested that participants continue the exercises even after completing a program by incorporating them into their daily life. Those who do not may experience a decline in its benefits.

Teenage Depression and Anxiety

Posted on October 20, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Teen angst -488360124 The term “teen angst” is synonymous with the emotional changes that adolescents experience. It is commonly used to describe unpredictable mood swings and at times unexplained changes in behaviors displayed by adolescents.

Adolescent or teen angst is defined as an “acute feeling of anxiety or apprehension that is often accompanied by depression.”(www.Medscape.com). Occasional bad moods, irritability or periods of sadness are common and expected behaviors. However, if they persist for an extended period of time, it can be an indication that your child is experiencing more than the typical teen strife. They may be exhibiting symptoms of a serious mental health issue such as depression or anxiety.

It is estimated that one in eight teenagers suffer from depression or anxiety and in some cases both disorders. Many of these behaviors are dismissed or overlooked as moodiness. This is concerning because if left untreated depression or anxiety can lead to highly destructive actions such as, drug abuse, self-mutilation, or in extreme situations- suicide.

There are several signs that may present themselves that can help parents recognize if their child is suffering from a depression or anxiety disorder. Some of which are:

Frequent sadness or crying
Persistent boredom or the inability to enjoy activities
Increased hostility, anger or irritability
Frequent absences from school or extracurricular activities they once enjoyed
Extreme fear of rejection or failure
Chronic fatigue or tiredness
Frequent complaints about headaches and stomach aches, without real cause for illness
Poor concentration
Constantly speaking about death or suicide
Persistent social isolation or difficulty with relationships
Major changes in eating or sleeping patterns

If your child is displaying any of these signs, it is recommended that you have a non-judgmental conversation with them. Let them know that you have observed atypical behaviors and that you are concerned. Encourage them to open up. If they are uncomfortable speaking to you about what they are experiencing, offer support gand seek the help of a mental health professional.

For more information of adolescent depression or anxiety or to speak with a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital, please call 718-206-7135.

How Stress Affects Your Digestive System

Posted on October 13, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Our brain and gut are mo stomach pain -178554755 re in sync than you may realize. For instance, the very thought of food can cause the stomach to produce digestive juices or the thought of giving a big presentation may cause constipation or uncontrollable bowels.The brain and gut are in constant communication. This direct relationship causes our gastrointestinal system to be sensitive to emotions and reactions such as stress.

When we are stressed, our brain sends signals for chemicals such as adrenaline, serotonin (a hormone that affects mood and is found in the digestive system) as well as the stress hormone cortisol to be released. These hormones can cause adverse reactions.

Stress negatively affects our digestive system in many ways. It can cause a decrease in blood and oxygen flow to the stomach, cramping, an imbalance in gut bacteria and inflammation. These symptoms can further develop into gastro intestinal (GI) disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), irritable bowel disease (IBD), peptic ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

There are several things you can do to reduce stress and improve gut health. Practicing stress-management techniques such as exercising regularly, avoiding stressors, socializing, getting sufficient sleep or relaxing can greatly minimize your levels of stress.

In addition to practicing stress reduction techniques, you can support your digestive health by drinking less alcoholic beverages or consuming less sugar- as too much sugar can cause an imbalance in the ratio of good and bad bacteria in the stomach. Increasing your intake of foods that promote digestive health such as those rich in probiotics or foods that aid the body in producing digestive enzymes is also helpful.

The gut is often referred to as “the second brain” of the body. If you are experiencing consistent complications of the digestive system, your body is probably trying to tell you that there may be a bigger problem. Make an appointment with a gastroenterologist who specializes in the treatment of gastrointestinal, liver, and pancreatic disorders to examine your symptoms.

Jamaica Hospital’s Division of Gastroenterology consists of board-certified gastroenterologists who provide high quality and expert care to patients who suffer from such conditions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. To schedule an appointment, please call 718 206 6742 or 718 206 7001.

The Importance Of Early Detection

Posted on October 6, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

breast cancer awareness -517467601 October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Did you know that breast cancer is one of the most common cancers found in women in the United States? Every year there are an estimated 230,000 new cases of breast cancer. About 40,000 women are expected to die annually from this disease. However, more women are surviving breast cancer due to improvements in treatment and early detection.

Cancer deaths can be decreased by as much as one-third with early detection and treatment.

Early detection can start from home. Doctors suggest that women perform monthly breast self-exams. In addition to yearly screenings and mammograms, self-exams can help women to monitor changes or abnormalities that may occur in her breasts. It is important to remember that breast self-exams are never a substitute for clinical breast exams or mammograms.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women should begin receiving clinical breast exams in their twenties. Women below the age of forty are advised to receive them every three years. Those over 40 should schedule yearly mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Mammograms are one of the most effective breast screening and diagnostic tools; however, other tools such as MRI’s or ultrasounds may also be used to further evaluate abnormalities or help diagnose breast cancer.

Early and immediate treatment is one of the benefits women will gain from early detection of cancer. If you are age forty and older schedule an appointment for a mammogram as soon as possible. The American College of Radiology is a great resource to find accredited facilities and breast imaging centers.

Jamaica Hospital and LiveOnNY Rallying New Yorkers To Use The Power Of Their Signature To Help Save Lives On Organ Donor Enrollment Day

Posted on September 30, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Did you know New York is ranked last in the entire country for the percentage of residents registered as organ donors? This is troubling because every 18 hours a New Yorker dies while waiting for an organ. It takes 1 donor to save 8 lives.

Jamaica Hospital is taking action and teaming up with LiveOnNY to help launch the first ever Organ Donor Enrollment Day on Oct. 6th. The event is being executed with one goal in mind: enroll as many willing New Yorkers as possible as organ donors in a single day.

Join us in the hospital’s main lobby from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and the cafeteria from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm to register or show your support for this very important cause.

Tips For Choosing A Pediatrician

Posted on September 29, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

The health of your child is very important. Equally as important is the pediatrician you choose to take care of their healthcare needs.

Pediatricians manage the physical, mental and behavioral health of children. They treat patients from birth until the age of 21. Therefore, your relationship with your child’s physician may be long term. Because your relationship with your child’s physician could be long lasting, it is important for you to compile a list of characteristics or requirements to help you assess compatibility.

While there are many qualified pediatricians for you to choose from, selecting one that is compatible with your requirements can sometimes be challenging.

Here are a few helpful tips you can use to make your search for a pediatrician less complicated:

Ask around– Friends or loved ones can be a trusted resource when looking for a pediatrician. They can refer you to a pediatrician that has provided a positive experience or to someone who has an excellent reputation.
Find the name of qualified pediatricians- A list of qualified and board certified physicians in your area can be found on the website of The American Academy of Pediatrics. abp.org
Consider proximity- It is highly suggested that you seek a pediatrician that is located within close proximity to your home.
Make sure the physician is covered by your insurance- Call your insurance company to ensure that the physicians you are interested in are providers in your plan.
Set up interviews– Call the pediatrician’s office and explain that you are interested in their services and would like to schedule a time to ask a few questions. Your talk with the doctor may be in person or over the phone. A few key questions to ask include:
Where did the pediatrician attend medical school?
What are their credentials?
Which hospitals are they affiliated with?
On average, how long does it take to get an appointment?
On average how much time does the doctor take to see each patient?
How are emergency situations handled?
How can the doctor be reached after hours?
Are sick and well patients separated?
Go with your instincts- After your interview with the pediatrician use the information you have gathered and your parental instincts to help you to decide if they are best for you.

Once you have selected your pediatrician, remember a good doctor-parent relationship can improve the quality of healthcare your child receives. Building a good relationship with your doctor will require clear communication, mutual respect and trust.

The Resurgence of an Old Disease -Syphilis on the rise in NYC

Posted on September 24, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

syphilis-178883789 (1) The New York State Department of Health is raising awareness on the alarming and steady rise of syphilis cases in our region. The number of New Yorkers newly infected with syphilis has increased by more than 160% between 2010 and 2014. Numbers are particularly higher in Manhattan and men account for approximately 70% of these cases.

Syphilis is considered an old, easy to diagnose and highly treatable disease. It once plagued populations from the 1400’s up until the 1940’s; when it was discovered that antibiotics such as penicillin can be used as a cure. Since then the spread of this sexually transmitted disease has been controlled with the use of modern medications and contraceptives such as condoms.

Given the history of syphilis and the resources that are readily available, one may question why we are seeing such resurgence? Studies have shown that people are having more casual and unprotected sex and many are unaware that they are carriers of the disease.

If left untreated the disease can cause serious damage to the body and can eventually lead to premature death.

The New York State Department of Health is encouraging people to remember the importance of practicing safe sex. The escalation of syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases can be reduced if unsafe sex practices are eliminated and if those who are sexually active receive frequent STD screenings.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for STD screenings, please call the Family Medicine Center at Jamaica Hospital at 718-206-6942 or visit https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/services/sexual-health-clinics.page