National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month

Posted on July 8, 2024 by Xavia Malcolm

July is National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month. The observance was created to raise awareness and increase understanding of craniofacial conditions such as cleft lip and palate.

Approximately 7,000 babies are born each year in the United States with a cleft lip or palate; both occur when a baby’s lip or palate does not form completely during pregnancy. A cleft lip happens when the tissue that makes the upper lip does not join completely and leaves a gap. A cleft palate forms when the tissue that makes up the palate or the roof of the mouth does not fuse completely, resulting in an opening.

A child born with a cleft lip or palate may experience:

Difficulty with feedings
Trouble speaking
Chronic ear infections
Hearing problems
Dental problems

The exact reason why a cleft lip or palate happens is unknown; however, research suggests the following factors may increase the risk:

Genetics
A lack of folic acid during pregnancy
Taking certain medications, such as antiseizure medications during pregnancy
Smoking cigarettes during pregnancy
Obesity during pregnancy
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy
Diabetes during pregnancy

The risk of developing a cleft palate or lip may be lowered by taking prenatal vitamins, avoiding alcohol and tobacco use, eating a healthy diet, managing diabetes, or receiving genetic counseling.

A cleft lip or palate may be detected during pregnancy using prenatal ultrasound or noticed at birth. Treatment may involve surgeries to correct the cleft and improve its appearance. A doctor may also recommend lactation or feeding support, dental treatments, hearing aids, speech therapy, or mental health support.

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.

Strokes On The Rise In Younger People

Posted on July 2, 2024 by Xavia Malcolm

A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or reduced, or when there is bleeding in the brain. A stroke can result in brain damage, long-term disability, or death.

Data shows that people over the age of 55 have a higher risk of stroke than others. Although the risk of stroke increases with age, it is important to remember that it can happen to anyone. Younger people can have strokes too.

According to the American Heart Association, approximately 10-15% of strokes occur in adults aged 18-50 years, and the incidence of ischemic stroke (caused by a clot blocking blood flow to the brain) is rising in that group.

Several factors may increase the risk of stroke in younger adults. They are:

Pregnancy
Smoking
Illicit drug use
Binge drinking
Taking birth control pills that include estrogen
Sickle cell disease
Blood clotting disorders
Migraine with aura
Diabetes
Hypertension
Patent foramen ovale
Obesity
Genetics

The risk of stroke can be reduced by receiving the appropriate care for certain diseases and health conditions, avoiding the use of illicit drugs, and making positive lifestyle changes such as eating healthy, exercising, quitting smoking, and minimizing alcohol consumption.

Having a stroke can have a serious impact on your health. This is why knowing the warning signs and receiving timely treatment is crucial. The acronym B.E.F.A.S.T (balance, eyes, face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, time to call 911) can help you remember the warning signs of a stroke and respond quickly.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center has been accredited as a Comprehensive Stroke Center (the highest designation of stroke care) by the Joint Commission. Whether you’ve survived a stroke or may be at risk of experiencing one, you can schedule an appointment for neuroendovascular screening, stroke rehabilitation, or any other form of stroke treatment that we provide. To schedule an appointment, please call 718-206-7001.

What You Should Know About The Over-The-Counter Birth Control Pill

Posted on June 11, 2024 by Xavia Malcolm

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first over-the-counter birth control pill.

The Opill (norgestrel) tablet is a daily, non-prescription, progestin-only, oral contraceptive medication that is used to prevent pregnancy. It can be purchased online, at pharmacies, convenience stores, and grocery stores.

Opill is a convenient birth control option and according to its manufacturer, pharmaceutical company Perrigo, it is 98% effective in preventing unintended pregnancy when used as directed. To work effectively, the medication must be taken daily, at the same time every day. Perrigo also advises users to avoid taking medications that may cause an interaction with Opill, as this can reduce efficacy, and result in unintended pregnancy. Additionally, Perrigo recommends that Opill should not be taken with other hormonal birth control products such as an intra-uterine device (IUD), contraceptive patches, or injections.

Although Opill is generally safe, there are a few side effects that may occur. They include:

Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea
Abdominal pain, cramps or bloating
Irregular bleeding
Increased appetite
Acne

The convenience of buying a birth control pill over the counter can be appealing to many; however, not everyone should take Opill. This group includes those who:

Suspect they are pregnant
Have breast cancer or a history of breast cancer
Have certain liver diseases

It is also recommended that individuals living with other forms of cancer besides breast cancer speak with their doctors before taking the medication.

While Opill is effective in preventing unintended pregnancy, it is important to note that it does not prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). To stop the spread of STDs, please practice safe sex by using condoms.

Spotlighting Jamaica Hospital’s Mobile Crisis Team

Posted on May 22, 2024 by Xavia Malcolm

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we are highlighting the important work of Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Mobile Crisis Program in our community.

Jamaica Hospital’s Mental Health Department operates the Mobile Crisis Program as part of its mental health emergency services. The program is the only one of its kind to serve our community and hospital, responding to mental health crisis referrals, 24/7, 365 days a year. Our providers rapidly provide in-person visits within two hours of receiving a referral.

The program is staffed by a team of dedicated mental health administrators, coordinators, and social workers who provide comprehensive crisis intervention, home-visit, repatriation, counseling, and support services to countless patients and families.

Jamaica Hospital’s mobile crisis team emphasizes compassion and empathy when delivering mental health care and support. Each care provider is highly trained to engage appropriately with individuals in crisis or those experiencing psychiatric emergencies. Our team serves a very diverse population; therefore, special attention is paid to the unique and cultural needs of each individual and loved one encountered.

The primary goal of the hospital’s mobile crisis program is to go above and beyond to offer assistance. This goal is achieved by providing more support than average, which involves thorough follow-up care, and connecting individuals to social services and programs needed to improve their mental health and overall quality of life.

Jamaica Hospital’s Mobile Crisis Program aims to help individuals and families in our community by safely and compassionately engaging with those experiencing a mental health crisis, reducing unnecessary hospitalizations, and reducing the risk of future crises through the provision of continuous care. Participation is voluntary; however, if it is determined that a person in crisis needs further psychiatric or medical assessment, arrangements may be made for them to be transported to a hospital psychiatric emergency room.

In New York City, you can request help from a mobile crisis team if you are concerned about a family member, friend, or acquaintance who is experiencing or is at risk of a mental health crisis. You can also request a team for yourself. To request a team, please call 988.

The Effects of Stress on Our Health

Posted on April 16, 2024 by Xavia Malcolm

Long-term or chronic stress can harm our mental and physical health. When we are experiencing stress, the body releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which if they persist at high levels can lead to adverse reactions including suppression of the digestive system and immune systems, elevation of blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and disruption in the processes of the brain that control mood, perception, and cognition.

Over time, these negative changes in our body may increase the risk of stroke, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, depression, anxiety, and other health problems. Furthermore, continued stress makes it more difficult to recover from these conditions.

Reducing or managing stress levels by learning to cope healthily can greatly improve your health and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Here are a few stress management techniques you can try:

Learn to identify stressors or triggers, and reduce or eliminate them
Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, deep breathing exercises, or meditation
Get the recommended amount of sleep
Practice good time management
Avoid harmful ways to cope with stress such as binge eating, drinking excessively, using illicit drugs, or smoking tobacco
Exercise regularly
Eat a well-balanced diet
Connect with others

Practicing stress-reduction techniques is not a one-size-fits-all approach. If high levels of stress persist and you continue to feel overwhelmed, you may need additional support from a trained professional. A licensed therapist or mental health counselor can evaluate your mental and emotional health, and suggest a plan of treatment that can help you.

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

Insomnia

Posted on March 12, 2024 by Xavia Malcolm

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that makes it difficult to fall or stay asleep. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, It is estimated that 30% of adults living in the United States experience symptoms of insomnia.

Insomnia can be categorized into two categories: primary and secondary. Primary insomnia is not linked to any other health conditions. In contrast, secondary insomnia can be caused by underlying health conditions or medication side effects.

Symptoms of insomnia may vary and can last for a short time ( a few days or weeks), or they can be chronic occurring at least three times per week and lasting more than three months. Insomnia symptoms can include:

Having a hard time falling asleep at night
Trouble staying asleep throughout the night
Waking up too early
Tiredness or sleepiness during the day
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Memory problems
Irritability
Mood swings

Longterm sleep deprivation caused by severe or chronic insomnia can lead to the development of complications such as:

Anxiety
Depression
Sleep apnea
Type 2 diabetes
Hypertension
Obesity
Stroke

Getting good quality sleep is crucial for our mental and physical health. There are a few things that we can do to improve our quality of sleep. They include:

Setting and following a sleep schedule
Avoid using electronic devices before bed
Avoid eating heavy meals late in the day
Avoid the consumption of foods or beverages that contain alcohol or caffeine before bed

If you are experiencing long-term insomnia symptoms that are affecting your ability to do daily activities, you should speak with a doctor. A sleep specialist can conduct a series of tests to determine the cause of sleep deprivation and create a treatment plan.

To schedule an appointment with a sleep specialist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5916.

Lupus: Triggers and Warning Signs

Posted on January 23, 2024 by Xavia Malcolm

Lupus is a chronic disease that occurs when the immune system attacks the body’s organs and tissues. The exact cause of lupus is unknown; however, it is believed that hormones, genetics, and environmental factors play a role.

Anyone can develop lupus, but some individuals may have a greater risk than others. Those with a higher risk are:

Black people
Asian people
Hispanic people
People assigned female at birth
People with a family history of lupus

Symptoms of lupus range from mild to severe, and can include:

Joint pain
Butterfly rash
Mouth sores
Shortness of breath
Swollen glands
Inflammation in the brain
Blood clots
Hair loss

People living with lupus often experience periods when their symptoms worsen; this is known as a flare. Flares come and go and are often triggered by anything that causes stress to the body. Common triggers may include:

Emotional stress
Pregnancy or giving birth
Infections
Surgery
Physical injuries
Viral illnesses
Severe exposure to ultraviolet rays
Exhaustion (being overworked or not getting enough rest)
Certain medications
Not taking lupus medications regularly

Lupus flares often have warning signs such as fever, swollen joints, fatigue, and other associated symptoms. However, flares can also occur without symptoms. This is why individuals diagnosed with lupus must visit their doctor regularly to monitor their health.

The Lupus Center at Jamaica Hospital is staffed by highly trained rheumatologists. For more information about the Lupus Center or to make an appointment, please call (718) 206-9888.

Sjogren’s Syndrome

Posted on December 21, 2023 by Xavia Malcolm

Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack and damage the glands that produce and control moisture in the body.

Sjögren’s is classified into two types: primary and secondary. In primary Sjögren’s, there are no other autoimmune diseases present. Secondary Sjögren’s is diagnosed in someone who also has other rheumatic conditions.

Parts of the body that are most affected by the disease are the eyes and mouth. However, the skin, joints, kidneys, nerves, lungs, and thyroid can also be impacted over time.

Dry eyes and mouth are the most common symptoms of Sjögren’s. But people living with the disease may also experience:

Tooth decay
Vaginal dryness
Dry skin
Skin rashes
Joint pain
Swollen lymph nodes
Muscle pain
Heartburn
Acid reflux
Shortness of breath
Light sensitivity

Health complications that could potentially develop as a result of Sjögren’s include:

Lymphomas
Damage to the nervous system
Gastroparesis
Eye infections
Abnormal liver function
Irritable bowel
Yeast infections
Recurrent bronchitis

The cause of Sjögren’s syndrome is unknown. Research suggests that a combination of genetics, environment, and hormones may be linked. Certain factors can increase the risk of developing the disease. These are:

Age – Sjögren’s is typically diagnosed in people older than 40
Gender- women are more likely than men to develop the disease
Rheumatic disease- having rheumatic conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis
Genetics- having one or both parents living with Sjögren’s

There is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome; however, there are several ways to treat and manage the disease. Treatment may include medication, the use of artificial saliva or tears, the use of special moisturizers or lubricants, hormone therapy, or tear duct surgery. Applying lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, increasing fluid intake, wearing protective glasses, increasing the humidity in your home, and reducing stress can help you manage symptoms.

If you are experiencing symptoms associated with Sjögren’s syndrome, please contact your doctor to schedule an examination. Your doctor may diagnose the disease by conducting blood tests, eye exams, x-rays, or biopsies.

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

Breast Pain While Breastfeeding

Posted on October 19, 2023 by Xavia Malcolm

It is common to experience some discomfort while breastfeeding during the first few days after giving birth. You may feel pain, soreness, or tenderness in your breast or nipple, but these issues should improve over time with proper care and breastfeeding techniques.

Breastfeeding should be a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both mother and baby. Therefore, if you continue to experience pain or discomfort while breastfeeding, it may indicate a more serious problem that should not be ignored.

It’s important to identify the cause and seek help from a lactation consultant if needed. One of the most common reasons for nipple pain is an incorrect latch. Signs of a poor latch include:

– Nipple pain
– Clicking or smacking noises from your baby
– Your baby sucking in their cheeks
– Your baby is showing signs of hunger after feeding

Other potential causes of breast or nipple pain during breastfeeding can include:

– Mastitis (inflammation in the breast)
– Breast abscess
– Clogged milk ducts
– Engorgement
– Thrush
– Cracked nipples
– Tongue-tie (when the baby has a short frenulum)

If you are experiencing breast or nipple pain, it is advisable to consult an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. A consultant can help address breastfeeding challenges such as low milk supply, latching issues, or other barriers to successful breastfeeding.

Meet Our Doctors: Dr. Benjamin Hartley

Posted on September 15, 2023 by Xavia Malcolm

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center is pleased to introduce the newest member of its neurosurgical team, neurosurgeon Dr. Benjamin Hartley.

Dr. Hartley was raised in Redmond, Oregon, and comes from a family of surgeons. “My father and grandfather were both surgeons,” he shared. “Although they’ve inspired me to become a physician, my greatest motivation was being able to care for patients and communities who needed it most.”

Dr. Hartley brings extensive knowledge and expertise to complement a team of highly trained neurosurgeons at Jamaica Hospital. He received his medical degree from SUNY Downstate College of Medicine and completed his residency at Weill-Cornell Medical College and Memorial Sloan Kettering. Dr. Hartley later went on to complete a fellowship in neurosurgical oncology at Northwell Health. “I chose neuroscience because it is the last great frontier of the life sciences, and I enjoy solving problems by using my hands,” he explained.

Years of intensive training and clinical experience have earned Dr. Hartley recognition as a top specialist. He specializes in treating brain tumors, skull base tumors, brain hemorrhages, hydrocephalus, and other conditions that affect the nervous system. Dr. Hartley utilizes advanced surgical techniques to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

According to Dr. Hartley, the best part of his job is working with an esteemed group of colleagues, and helping patients and families navigate challenging medical diagnoses.

Dr. Hartley’s dedication to medicine extends well beyond the walls of the hospital. He also commits his time to creating and supporting community initiatives that promote diversity in medicine. His proudest achievement is founding the PrIMES Mentorship program. The program supports undergraduate students from under-represented demographics interested in medicine by pairing them with physicians who serve as mentors.

Jamaica Hospital is proud to have a highly skilled and community-centric physician such as Dr. Hartley on its team. He aims to offer the highest quality surgical treatments, compassionate care in and out of the operating room, and open lines of communication with patients and families at all times.

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