Benefits of Yoga for Heart Health

Posted on October 31, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

There are many aerobic exercises that can increase the heart rate and help prevent or manage heart disease. However, calming exercises such as yoga are good for the heart as well.

Yoga is a mind-body activity that involves moving through a series of body poses and breathing exercises that can improve strength, flexibility, balance, and relaxation. There are dozens of different formats, or practices of yoga, such as hatha, anusara, and ashtanga, that emphasize different focuses, such as toning, strength training, or meditation.

One of yoga’s clearest benefits to the heart is its ability to relax the body and mind. Emotional stress can cause several physical effects, including the release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can narrow the arteries and increase blood pressure. The relaxation response that yoga provides not only slows the heart rate and lowers blood pressure; it may also reduce inflammation and promote favorable changes in blood vessel function that protect the heart.

Additionally, practicing yoga can help lower blood cholesterol and blood glucose levels.

As mind-body practices, yoga encourages people to slow down and be more mindful about heart-healthy behaviors, such as eating well and getting enough sleep. These habits, along with positive emotions that some forms of yoga aim to inspire, such as compassion and gratitude, may also help foster cardiovascular health.

Recent studies support the benefits of yoga for heart health. One study has shown that blood measurements and waist circumference, which are signs of heart disease, improved in middle-aged adults with metabolic syndrome who practiced yoga for three months.

Another study has shown that attending slow-paced yoga classes twice a week reduced the frequency of atrial fibrillation episodes in patients with that condition. Additionally, in another report, patients with heart failure who went through an eight-week yoga program showed improvement in exercise capacity and quality of life. They also had lower blood levels of markers for inflammation, which contributes to heart disease.

Research has also indicated that yoga may be a useful tool in helping smokers quit, as smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for heart disease.

If you would like to learn about other ways to be heart healthy, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Cardiology Department by calling (718) 206-7100.

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.

Meet Our Doctors: Dr. Dawodu

Posted on October 28, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

We are pleased to introduce Dr. Olanrewaju (Lanre) Dawodu, the newest member of the obstetrics and gynecology team at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.

Dr. Dawodu is an attending physician, specializing in minimally invasive gynecological surgery (MIGS). She chose minimally invasive gynecological surgery as a specialty because it allows her to treat complex conditions, such as fibroids, endometriosis, infertility, and chronic pelvic pain. “I am passionate about using advanced surgical techniques that not only relieve symptoms, but also speed recovery and restore function, allowing those affected to reclaim their health and quality of life”, she said. Dr. Dawodu was drawn to medicine because it allows her to combine science, hands-on skills, and patient advocacy. “Over time, I became especially motivated by the need to improve care for women whose health concerns are often minimized or overlooked,” she explained.

Dr. Dawodu attended Wayne State University for her undergraduate degree and Meharry Medical College for medical school. She completed her residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and a fellowship at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, and is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Dawodu treats patients with fibroids, menstrual disorders, endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, ovarian cysts, and other benign but complex gynecologic conditions. She specializes in both uterine-preserving procedures and definitive treatments such as hysterectomy. “I offer the full spectrum of minimally invasive surgical options, including hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, and robotic surgery, tailoring each approach to a patient’s individual needs and goals”, says Dr. Dawodu.

Although Dr. Dawodu wasn’t born or raised in Queens, she has lived in New York City for the past four years and is proud to serve the Queens community through Jamaica Hospital. “I am excited to build a comprehensive program in complex benign gynecology here in Queens”, she said. She also noted that Jamaica Hospital wonderfully serves a diverse population and she is eager to provide advanced surgical options to patients who might not otherwise have access to them, stating, “I hope to bring compassionate care, surgical expertise, and a focus on patient-centered outcomes. My goal is to help my patients feel heard, validated, and empowered in their healthcare decisions, while ensuring they have access to the latest minimally invasive treatments.” Beyond surgery, Dr. Dawodu is committed to mentorship, education, and improving the efficiency of care. She is excited to grow with Jamaica Hospital as it expands access to minimally invasive gynecologic options in Queens.

We are proud to welcome Dr. Dawodu to our team and look forward to the work she and the rest of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology will do to provide high-quality care to our community.

How to Care for a Loved One Who Has Dementia

Posted on October 23, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Caring for a loved one with dementia comes with many emotional and physical challenges. Whether you are providing round-the-clock care at home, or visiting them at a homecare facility a couple or few times a week, understanding how to better care for a loved one with the condition can have a transformative effect on your relationship with them.

Dementia is a general term that represents a group of diseases and illnesses that cause the loss of cognitive functioning to the point that it interferes with a person’s daily life and activities.

Cognitive changes they may experience include:

Memory loss, usually noticed by someone else
Problems communicating or finding words
Trouble with visual and spatial abilities, such as getting lost while driving
Problems with reasoning or problem-solving
Trouble performing complex tasks
Trouble with planning and organizing
Poor coordination and control of movements
Confusion and disorientation

Some people with dementia can’t control their emotions, and they may also have psychological changes, such as:

Personality changes
Depression
Anxiety
Agitation
Inappropriate behavior
Hallucinations

Dementia is caused by damage to your brain, affecting its nerve cells and destroying the brain’s ability to communicate with its various areas. Dementia can also result from blocked blood flow to the brain, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain tissue dies.

Progressive dementias get worse over time. Types of dementias that worsen and aren’t reversible include:

Alzheimer’s disease (the most common cause of dementia)
Vascular dementia
Lewy body dementia
Frontotemporal dementia
Mixed dementia

As your loved one may be experiencing changes in thinking, remembering, and reasoning in ways that affect their daily life and activities, they will need more help with simple, everyday tasks. Here are some ways you can care for a loved one to ensure they are provided with compassionate and effective support:

Establish a consistent daily routine that offers a sense of security for your loved one. Schedule their meals, medications, and activities at the same times each day. This can help reduce confusion and anxiety and make the caregiving process smoother.
Communicate clearly and calmly with your loved one. This can be achieved by doing the following:
- Using simple words and short sentences
- Maintaining eye contact and speaking slowly
- Being patient and giving them time to process and respond
Making your loved one’s environment dementia-friendly to ensure the home is safe and easy to navigate. You can do this by:
- Removing tripping hazards
- Labeling drawers and rooms with words and pictures
- Using night lights to reduce nighttime disorientation
Encourage their independence and dignity by allowing them to do as much as they can on their own, breaking tasks into manageable steps, and offering gentle guidance when needed
Avoid arguing and correcting a misstatement or memory error. Use validation therapy by acknowledging their feelings and redirecting the conversation gently, as this can reduce their agitation
Engage in meaningful activities that stimulate the mind and body, which can boost their mood and cognitive function. These activities can include:
- Listening to music
- Looking at old photos
- Simple puzzles and crafts
Watch for signs of discomfort as individuals with dementia may not always clearly express their pain or discomfort. Watch for non-verbal cues, such as restlessness, facial expressions, or changes in behavior
Take care of yourself. As a caregiver of a loved one with dementia, burnout is common. Prioritize your own health by taking breaks, seeking emotional support, and joining caregiver support groups
Plan for your loved one’s future by making early decisions about legal documents, long-term care options, and financial planning
Use assistive technology and tools such as reminder clocks, GPS trackers, and medication dispensers

If your loved one is experiencing any of these dementia symptoms, you can schedule an appointment with a neurologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 206-7001. If they are experiencing an emergency, call 911.

National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month

Posted on October 22, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

October is National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month. It is a call to action aimed at raising awareness about the signs and symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest and highlighting its impact on individuals, as well as guiding how to help save lives.

Here are some things to know about cardiac arrest:

· More than 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur annually in the U.S., and nearly 90% of them are fatal

· Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can double or triple survival rates, yet fewer than half of victims receive bystander aid

· Sudden cardiac arrest kills one person every two minutes

· About 70% of cardiac arrests happen at home

· An estimated 10,000 cardiac arrests occur at work each year in the U.S.

· Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death on school campuses

Having a heart attack can increase your risk of experiencing sudden cardiac arrest; however, there are distinct differences between a heart attack and cardiac arrest, their causes, and symptoms.

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is severely reduced or blocked. The blockage is typically caused by a buildup of fat, cholesterol, or other substances in the coronary arteries.

Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating and pumping blood to vital organs.

Signs of sudden cardiac arrest include:

· Unconsciousness

· No breathing or only gasping for air

Many factors can put someone at risk of sudden cardiac arrest, including:

· Family history of coronary artery disease

· Smoking

· High blood pressure and high cholesterol

· Obesity

· Diabetes

· A sedentary lifestyle

· Drinking too much alcohol

· Using illegal drugs such as cocaine or amphetamines

Every second counts in a sudden cardiac arrest. In 95% of sudden cardiac arrest cases, the victim is lost. Survival from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest greatly depends on nearby loved ones or bystanders promptly calling 911, initiating CPR, and using an automated external defibrillator (AED). For every minute that immediate CPR and use of a defibrillator are delayed, the odds of survival decrease by 10%.

Knowing how to start CPR and how to use an AED greatly increases the chance of survival of a sudden cardiac arrest. The survival rate of sudden cardiac arrest is about 10% for out-of-hospital incidences and 21% for in-hospital events, yet research shows that high-quality CPR has a significant impact on survival outcomes, whether inside or outside the hospital.

Unfortunately, sometimes people refrain from helping someone who needs CPR because of the fear of injuring the person or doing something wrong. Calling 911 and starting chest compressions is better than doing nothing at all because it can help give the person a better chance of survival.

Here is what you can do when someone is in sudden cardiac arrest:

· Call 911 or have someone nearby call 911 immediately. The emergency dispatcher can guide you on what you can do until advanced medical help arrives. This includes how to perform Hands-Only CPR.

· Check to see if the person is breathing or responsive

· Send someone to get the AED

· If the person is not breathing, or gasping for air, and they are not responsive, start CPR immediately. If you don’t know CPR, perform hands-only CPR, pushing hard and fast on the center of the chest

· Use an AED if available. Portable AEDs are available in many public places

Sudden cardiac arrest can affect anyone and everyone. That is why it is important to be educated about sudden cardiac arrest, the warning signs, and how to respond if someone around you goes into cardiac arrest.

Hemorrhoids

Posted on October 21, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen or enlarged veins that form in the lower rectum and around the anus.

There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids form in the lining of the anus and the lower rectum. External hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus.

Hemorrhoids are common in both men and women, affecting an estimated 50% of adults at some point in their lives. Some people are more at risk of developing hemorrhoids than others. They include those who:

Live a sedentary lifestyle or have a profession where they sit for long periods
Are pregnant
Have a family history of hemorrhoids
Are between the ages of 45 and 65 years old

Hemorrhoids develop when there is increased pressure on the veins in the anus or rectum, which leads to inflammation and swelling.

Increased pressure on the veins in these areas may be caused by:

Chronic constipation or diarrhea
Straining when passing stool
Sitting on the toilet for extended periods
Eating a low-fiber diet
Being pregnant
Frequently lifting heavy objects
Being overweight or obese
Having anal intercourse

The symptoms of hemorrhoids vary based on the type you have (internal or external). You may experience:

Itching
Swelling or hard lumps around the anus
Pain or discomfort in the affected area
Bleeding (You may see bright red blood in stool, on toilet paper, or in the bowl, after pooping)

Symptoms of more minor hemorrhoids may be treatable at home, using over-the-counter hemorrhoid and pain medications, soaking in sitz baths, drinking more water, eating more fiber, or taking laxatives.

You should see a doctor if symptoms persist (not improving after one week of at-home treatments), and especially if your stool turns black or red, or if you notice more blood than usual.

Your doctor can diagnose hemorrhoids by performing a physical examination or tests such as a digital rectal exam or anoscopy. They may recommend treatments based on the symptoms you are experiencing and their severity. Treatment can include injections, surgery, rubber band ligation, or using infrared light to burn hemorrhoids.

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

A Delicious and Comforting Potpie Recipe that Will Keep You Cozy This Fall

Posted on October 17, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

As fall progresses, the days will become shorter, the nights will become colder, and we will be looking for things to keep us cozy on those crisp autumn evenings. Here is a potpie recipe that is both delicious and comforting.

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/basic-potpie-recipe-recipe-1939630

Patient Testimonial- Chris Barker says, “Dr. Guerges was very professional, and explained everything in depth”

Posted on October 17, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

“Dr. Guerges was very professional, and explained everything in depth”, is what Chris Barker, a certified gemologist and construction contractor, said after having surgery to fix a blockage in his leg.

While Mr. Barker was working his construction job, he began having health problems and fell ill. He then started to notice a pain and burning sensation in his leg. This leg pain was so severe that it prevented him from walking long distances and significantly impeded his ability to carry out his day-to-day functions and to carry out his job. That is when he came to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center and met with Dr. Mina Guerges, the attending vascular surgeon.

During a consultation, Dr. Guerges discovered that Mr. Barker was suffering from a long-standing blockage in his leg that was preventing blood from reaching his foot, and he made plans to perform surgery to fix the blockage in his leg immediately. The surgery went smoothly. Using state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Guerges was able to restore blood flow to Mr. Barker’s leg, and he was immediately pain-free and back at work. “The surgical team was very professional”, said Mr. Barker.

Mr. Barker says he is doing well now since the surgery. Mr. Barker is grateful to Dr. Guerges and his team for their assistance throughout this experience.

At Jamaica Hospital, our surgical team is using cutting-edge technology to salvage limbs and prevent major amputations. To schedule an appointment with one of our vascular surgeons in NYC or learn more about the services at our vascular surgery center in New York, please call 718-206-6713.

ADHD Awareness Month

Posted on October 13, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

October is ADHD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, challenging stigma, and celebrating the unique strengths that often come with a neurodivergent brain.

Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that includes a combination of persistent problems, such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. Adult ADHD can lead to unstable relationships, poor work or school performance, low self-esteem, and other problems.

Some people with ADHD have fewer symptoms as they age, but some adults continue to have major symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. Adult ADHD symptoms include:

Impulsiveness
Disorganization and problems prioritizing
Poor time management skills
Problems focusing on a task
Trouble multitasking
Excessive activity or restlessness
Poor planning
Low frustration tolerance
Frequent mood swings
Problems following through and completing tasks
Hot temper
Trouble coping with stress

Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Many adults with ADHD aren’t aware they have it.

The exact cause of ADHD is not clear, but research efforts continue. Factors that may be involved in the development of ADHD include:

Genetics
Environment
Problems during development

Factors that may increase the risk of ADHD may include:

You have blood relatives, such as a parent or sibling, with ADHD or another mental health disorder
Your mother smoked, drank alcohol, or used drugs during pregnancy
As a child, you were exposed to environmental toxins such as lead, found mainly in paint and pipes in older buildings
You were born prematurely

Signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults can be difficult to spot. However, the core symptoms of ADHD start early in life, before the age of 12, continuing into adulthood, creating major problems.

There is no single test that can confirm an ADHD diagnosis. A diagnosis will likely include:

A physical exam
Questions about your current medical issues, personal and family medical history, and the history of your symptoms
ADHD rating scales or psychological tests

Standard treatments for ADHD in adults typically involve medication, education, skills training, and psychological counseling. A combination of these is often the most effective treatment as they can help manage many symptoms of ADHD, but they won’t cure it.

If you need the assistance and support of a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575 to schedule an appointment.

How to Prepare for Cold and Flu Season

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

As we progress through the fall season and approach winter, it is essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from seasonal illnesses.

Here are some steps you can take to prepare for the upcoming cold and flu season:

Getting vaccines, such as the flu shot, can help your body’s immune system recognize and defend against a variety of viruses before you get infected. They can also reduce the severity of symptoms if you do fall ill.
Avoiding and preventing the spread of illnesses by practicing good hygiene habits can help reduce your exposure to germs and viruses. Some good hygiene habits you can practice include:
- Washing your hands regularly, especially before eating and after using the restroom
- Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, even if it is just seasonal allergies
- Wiping down commonly used surfaces in your home, such as door handles, toilets, faucets, remotes, and other areas you and your loved ones may touch regularly
- Avoiding sharing personal products and utensils with others
- Wearing a mask to help reduce your exposure to respiratory illnesses
- Limiting time in shared spaces, when you can, to help stop germs from spreading around your home
Taking care of yourself by protecting your immune system. Some ways you can protect your immune system include:
- Getting a good night’s rest can help strengthen your body and immune system against illnesses
- Adding vitamin-dense fruits and vegetables to your meals can help you maintain your energy and ward off viral and bacterial infections.
- Staying hydrated, which can help loosen mucus and increase blood flow
- Staying physically active can help your body build resistance and resilience against infectious diseases
- Taking time to relax and manage stress is important to keep your immune system running at full capacity. Experiencing stress may affect self-care routines and lower the body’s resistance to infections

If you do start to feel under the weather, it is important to take quick action to protect your health and prevent the spread of illness to others. By following these simple steps, you can recover more comfortably and help keep you and your loved ones safe.

If you are experiencing any cold or flu symptoms, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001.

Why Do We Eat When We Are Stressed?

Posted on October 2, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Stress can impact our health in various ways, including our eating behaviors. It can influence our appetite, how much we eat, and the types of food we choose. Studies show that stressful events activate systems associated with metabolism, cognition, and reward.

When a person is stressed or overwhelmed, their body produces cortisol, the hormone that creates the body’s fight-or-flight response to help protect itself. When a person has elevated cortisol levels for a prolonged period of time, such as during repeated and constant stressors, this can lead to fat storage, weight gain, and increased consumption of foods that are energy-dense and high in sugar and fat. These types of foods are “comfort” foods that can seem like they are counteracting stress; however, they may contribute to a person’s stress-induced craving for those foods.

There are several ways to manage stress eating, including:

Practicing mindful eating
Finding healthier options for your sweet or savory cravings
Watching your portion sizes
Meditating
Exercising
Finding sources of social support

If you need the assistance and support of a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575 to schedule an appointment.