The Modern Day Zombie

Posted on September 21, 2015 by Joann Ariola

Walking Corpse Syndrome (also known as Cotard’s Syndrome) is a rare neuropsychiatric disorder in which the afflicted person holds the delusion that he or she is dead, missing their soul, organs, blood or other body parts, as well as being in a state of existence denial. Conversely, some patients may have delusions of immortality.

For people with this condition, entertainment like cable TV’s “The Walking Dead” may be too close for comfort.

Studies indicate that the disease is more prevalent in older patients and women with depression. It is also more likely to occur in patients with disorders such as:

Schizophrenia
Bipolar disorders
Brain injury
Brain atrophy
Seizure disorders
Depression
Brain tumors
Stroke
Migraine

Though it is thought that lesions in the frontal and temporal regions (front and sides) of the right hemisphere of the brain have been associated with the disease, Cotard’s disease is so rare that it is difficult to pinpoint the mechanisms that cause it.

Tests are used to diagnose associated diseases and rule out other conditions. Current treatment for Cotard’s Syndrome involves medication with antidepressants, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers. Electroconvulsive therapy, in combination with medication, has been reported to be more effective than medications alone.

Fortunately, patients with Cotard’s Syndrome can experience a complete recovery, even in severe cases.

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.

September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

Posted on September 16, 2015 by Andrew Rubin

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. Childhood obesity affects approximately one in five children in the United States. Obesity is measured by taking a child’s body-mass index (BMI) and evaluating where this number falls on a BMI age-growth chart. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has developed a table to make it possible to compare the BMI with those of other children of the same age and height. Other factors that need to be considered are the type of body frame, musculature, and the child’s development pattern.

There are many reasons why a child may become obese. Often obese children come from families where there are poor eating habits, and lack of physical activity. Other contributing factors can include stress, boredom, and depression as well as living in a community with limited accessibility to healthy food choices.

Obesity in children puts them at risk of developing chronic illnesses later in life such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, arthritis, and heart disease. It also makes children more prone to depression, low self-esteem and susceptible to bullying.

Ways to control a child’s weight include:

Limit fast food
Increase fruits and vegetables in the diet
Limit sweet drinks
Limit desserts and unhealthy snacks
Eat together as a family when possible
Regulate portion sizes
Increase physical activity, not just exercise
Decrease the amount of time spent watching TV or on the computer

Jamaica Hospital strives to help prevent childhood obesity by participating in workshops throughout the year at schools and at community health fairs by providing educational materials and guidance on proper nutrition. To speak with a pediatrician about childhood obesity, please call to schedule an appointment.

What to Expect When You Are Expecting

Posted on September 16, 2015 by Joann Ariola

There are so many changes your body goes through when you are pregnant, but there are also some screenings you may need to undergo to determine your health and the health of your unborn child; especially in your first and third trimesters.

First trimester testing may include blood and urine samples to determine
The level of the hCG hormone
Check for a kidney infection
Blood glucose for diabetes
Blood typing
Rh factor

Additionally, your blood could be tested for anemia, rubella (German measles), hepatitis B, HIV and sexually transmitted diseases.

As your pregnancy progresses, your obstetrician may order tests for diseases such as toxoplasmosis (toxoplasma gondii parasite, one of the world’s most common parasites) and varicella (the virus that causes chickenpox).

If you are like most pregnant women, the only tests you’ll need in your third trimester are routine screenings. They are a combination of additional blood and urine tests, blood pressure check, measurement of your uterus and a check of your baby’s heartbeat and an ultrasound to mark the baby’s due date and fetal development.

You may be tested for group B streptococcus, a bacterium that you can pass to your child during delivery. If you test positive, you will need to receive antibiotics during labor to prevent your baby from becoming ill.

Depending on your racial, ethnic or family background, genetic testing may be required, as well as a:

Nonstress Test – Woman who are carrying multiples or have chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
Aminiocentesis – This test is commonly done in the second trimester to diagnose or rule out fetal birth defects, and is generally recommended to women wo are age 35 and older.

It sounds like a great deal of testing, but the majority of the tests are minimally invasive and necessary since these conditions can affect the baby’s health and well-being.

National School Backpack Awareness Day – Backpack Safety

Posted on September 15, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Back safety-513203503 Backpacks are essential back-to- school items for kids. They come in different colors, sizes and shapes and most importantly they help children to carry their belongings. Backpacks are preferred by many in comparison to shoulder bags because when worn correctly, they evenly distribute weight across the body. However, if worn incorrectly they can cause back pain or injuries and eventually lead to poor posture.

To prevent problems associated with improper backpack use, parents should first purchase a backpack that has the following features:

Lightweight
Wide and padded straps
Multiple compartments
Padded back
Waist belt
Correct size (A backpack should never be wider or longer than your child’s torso).

Practicing these safety tips will further reduce the chance of back pain or injuries caused by backpacks:

When packing, heavier items should be placed to the back and center of the backpack. Lighter items should be in front. Sharp objects such as scissors or pencils should be kept away from your child’s back. Utilizing different compartments can help in distributing weight.
Do not over pack. Doctors recommend that children should not carry backpacks that weigh more than 10-15% of their body weight.
Ensure that children use both straps. Using a single strap can cause muscle strain.
Adjust the straps so that the backpack fits closely to your child’s back and sits two inches above the waist. This ensures comfort and proper weight distribution.
Encourage children to use their lockers or desks throughout the day to drop off heavy books.

The Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America recommends that parents should always look for warning signs that indicate backpacks may be too heavy. If your child struggles to put on and take off the backpack, they are complaining of numbness or tingling or if there are red strap marks on their shoulders -It may be time for you to lighten their load.

The Many Benefits of Garlic

Posted on September 4, 2015 by Michael Hinck

Looking for a wonder drug that can:

• Lower your blood pressure and cholesterol? Check
• Boost your immune system? Check
• Control you diabetes? Check
• Improve your digestive and respiratory system? Check

What is this new, breakthrough drug? It’s not a medication at all; in fact you can find it at your local grocery store. It’s garlic!

Garlic is a plant that is used in many cultures for both culinary and medical purposes for hundreds of years. Eaten on its own, or more commonly used as an ingredient in many tasty dishes, garlic contains allicin, which is known to have anti-oxidant, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial properties.

Garlic has been shown to lower blood pressure by relaxing vein and artery walls. This action helps keep platelets from clumping together and improves blood flow, thereby reducing the risk of stroke. Garlic also decreases the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, substances that increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Studies suggest that regularly eating garlic helps lower blood pressure and controls blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

This popular herb may also improve immunity by stimulating some of the body’s natural immune cells. Studies suggest that garlic may help prevent breast, bladder, skin, stomach, and colon cancer. Garlic’s antibacterial properties also make it a wonderful anti-viral and decongestant to prevent and combat colds, coughs, and upper respiratory tract infections. In addition, Garlic is often used to treat many other common maladies such as ear infections, toothaches, and treatment for warts and athlete’s foot.

Garlic can be digested either cooked or in raw form (but only in small amounts). If you do not like the taste of garlic there are also powdered or caplet forms. Your doctor can recommend which form of garlic is best for you.

For most people, consuming garlic does not cause any serious side effects if taken in moderation, but it can cause heartburn or stomach irritation if taken in excess. Due to its blood thinning properties, individuals taking anti-coagulant medications should speak with their doctor before increasing their daily garlic intake.

Rare but True – Can You be Allergic to the Cold ?

Posted on September 2, 2015 by Andrew Rubin

Every winter people complain that they need to be in a warm climate because they are “allergic” to the cold. While we think most are just trying to dramatize the effects of the cold weather in reality, there are some people who actually are allergic to the cold. The condition known as “Cold Urticaria” is brought on by exposure to the cold. It is caused by the body’s release of histamine i to the blood stream. the same chemical that gets released during an allergic reaction. This condition may be either an inherited trait or due to a virus.
Some of the signs and symptoms are:
• Reddish hives on skin that was exposed to the cold
• Hands that swell when they come in contact with cold objects
• Swelling of the lips, tongue and throat when touched by cold liquids
• Heart palpitations or fainting might occur in extreme cases.
• Headaches, fever and joint pain.
The effects of this allergic occurs when the temperature drops below 39 degrees but can also present at higher temperatures. The condition is usually limited to the part of the body that has been exposed but can have a full body effect if a person goes swimming in cold water or if they aren’t properly dressed in cold weather. One of the ways that it is diagnosed is by placing an ice cube on the skin for five minutes to see if there are any signs of a rash.
Treatment options include taking antihistamines, which will help ease the symptoms, avoiding extreme cold and making sure that you don’t leave areas of the body exposed in cold weather .
People who have cold urticaria should see a dermatologist to obtain prescription medications which may help to ease the symptoms. To schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.

Quick and Easy Appetizers for Labor Day…

Posted on August 26, 2015 by Joann Ariola

Refreshing dip, spreads and appetizer’s that will make it easy for you to dip in and chill out this Labor Day!

–Homemade is the best made.
– A grill, bacon and some bamboo skewers are all you need.
– Produce delicious skins using this recipe.
– Add some spice to your menu with this fun recipe.

10 Things You Should Know When Caring For Someone with Lupus

Posted on August 25, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

A diagno Purple ribbone 85501057 sis of lupus can be difficult news for a patient to receive; however, it can be as equally devastating to their loved ones. Caregivers will often face many mental and physical challenges after a diagnosis due to the unpredictability of the disease. Lupus is described as “unpredictable” because symptoms may present themselves differently in each person.

Experts suggest that one of the best pieces of advice a caregiver could use to overcome challenges is to develop an understanding of the disease. Through education they can become better prepared for difficulties that are likely to occur. Knowing the basics is a good start.

Here are 10 things a caregiver should know about lupus:

What is lupus? – Lupus is a chronic disorder of the immune system. It affects over 1.5 million people in the United States. The disease causes the body to attack healthy cells and tissues. Lupus can incur damage to the joints, kidneys, heart, blood vessels, skin, brain and lungs.
Who is most likely to get lupus?-The disease is most prevalent in women of color.
What causes the disease? – Currently, the cause of lupus is unknown.
What are some of the symptoms? – Symptoms vary by the individual. In some cases your loved one may experience: muscle or joint pain, fatigue, hair loss, fevers, rashes around the face, headaches, seizures or chest pain. The symptoms are sometimes referred to as lupus flares.
How do I handle lupus flares? – Be aware of tell-tale signs such as tiredness, rashes or other symptoms. Contact your doctor right away, so that he can recommend the appropriate treatment. If flares are stress related, try suggested methods for stress reduction.
Will lupus affect my loved one’s ability to remain active? – Lupus can impair your loved ones ability to move around, especially if there is a flare up around the joints.
How can I help my loved one to stay on top of their health? – Encouraging healthy eating, exercise, taking nutritional supplements and maintaining regular checkups are vital.
How can I be emotionally supportive? – The best advice is to let your loved one know that you are there for them and there to listen. A diagnosis or symptoms of lupus can sometimes lead to depression; be on the alert for signs such as a loss in interests, long term sadness or helplessness. If your loved one appears to be depressed, seek the help of a mental health professional as soon as possible.
How can I maintain my own mental health? It is not uncommon for caregivers to experience bouts of depression as well. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is recommended that you see a mental health professional. However, if you are just experiencing mental tiredness or frustration you can try activities such as exercise or joining a support group.
How do I maintain proper care for my loved one? Maintaining a continuous and communicative relationship with their physician is best. Because the disease is unpredictable you should communicate changes to the doctor. Based on information you provide, the doctor can develop a care plan for your loved one.

For more information about lupus, please contact The Lupus Center at Jamaica Hospital. The facility is staffed by expert rheumatologists from the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research and hosts various educational community outreach programs throughout the year. To schedule an appointment, call 718-206-9888 or the Lupus Hotline at 1-877-33 LUPUS.

Is Your Last Child Flying the Coop?

Posted on August 25, 2015 by Joann Ariola

If your last child is all grown up and about to leave home, or he or she has already moved out, you may experience some mixed emotions or what’s commonly called, empty next syndrome.

Empty nest syndrome is not a clinical diagnosis. It is a phenomenon in which parents may experience feelings of sadness and loss when their last child leaves home. You may worry how well your child will function in the world without your parental supervision and question their ability to take care of themselves. If you are the parent of an only child, you may have a particularly difficult time adjusting to an empty nest.

Many parents experiencing empty nest syndrome are confused by these feelings since they actively encouraged their child to become independent. Still, letting go can be painful. The feeling of not being needed by your child anymore, missing being a part of your child’s daily lives, as well as missing the constant companionship of your child can cause some parents to have mild bouts of depression, identity crisis, alcoholism and marital conflicts.

Some tips to help you overcome empty nest syndrome are:

Prepare for the departure – Take time to check that your child is aware of how to do the basic essentials for themselves such as, how to wash their clothes, cook for themselves, balance a checkbook and appreciate the value of money.
Shift aside the terrifying thoughts – Both you and your child will be better off if you treat this as a big adventure. Try not to transfer your fears onto your child. Help them to understand that once they’re into their new routine, it will be familiar, fun and successful.
Explore the ways that you intend to keep in touch with your child – Keeping in constant communication is vital for maintaining a sense of family togetherness and to keep of with the news. Schedule a weekly call-in time, utilize e-mail, texting, social media, Skype, or Face Time as a way of touching base while being sensitive to their need to grow and become their own adult person.
Start looking toward your own needs – Once you are satisfied that you child is settled on the right bath, you will start noticing a big change in your life. This is a great time to revive some of your own interests and pursuits.
Rediscover the love of your life – Unless you are a single parent, you will be left with your spouse or partner. Re-kindling the relationship you shared, pre-children, can be an exciting adventure of your own to take.
Focus on some of the positive points of your kids moving out – You may notice that the refrigerator does not need as frequent refilling, there are less trips to the grocery store and the laundry has decreased. Seeing the brighter side will help you while you are transitioning.

As the time for your child to fly the next approaches, try to reflect on each stage in your child’s life. Each ending was a new beginning. Stay positive, the fact that your child has confidently left home means you’ve done a great job as a parent. After leaving the nest, you can forge a new and even better relationship with your child as independent adults. Enjoy the friendship without having the pressure of hands-on parenting