Jamaica Hospital’s New Ambulatory Surgery Unit

Posted on December 5, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center recently opened its new Ambulatory Surgical Unit (ASU).

The expanded ASU enables the hospital to enhance its surgical services by increasing volume and provides a more efficient and enhanced layout, with a dedicated space for the timely service of elective and same-day procedures. “The new ASU will allow us to increase our volume and accommodate our growing surgical services to meet the needs of our community”, said Dr. Antonietta Morisco, Chairperson of Anesthesiology.

Jamaica Hospital’s ASU features four state-of-the-art operating rooms, a spacious admitting and recovery area for patients, and a comfortable waiting area for family members. Patients who have been to the ASU are amazed at how beautiful and modern the facility is and have said they have had a wonderful experience there.

The ASU has the latest technology to support minimally invasive surgical procedures, highlighted by a da Vinci robot. A few of the surgical subspecialties provided at the ASU include general surgery, ENT, urology, orthopedics, podiatry, gynecology, pain management, and pediatrics. Jamaica Hospital’s new ASU has a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, anesthesiologists, and support staff.

With the new amenities at the Ambulatory Surgery Unit, the team at the ASU looks forward to continuing to provide the community with high-quality care, building on its commitment to giving patients the best and most stress-free experience possible before, during, and after their surgical procedures.

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.

What is the New Flu Virus Variant?

Posted on December 4, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

A new variant of the flu virus, known as H3N2 subclade K, is affecting the U.S. this season, having circulated in other countries since the summer.

This variant is a mutated strain of H3N2, which is a subtype of influenza A. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), H3N2 is the main type of flu spreading in the U.S. as of mid-November.

Additionally, scientists from around the world have reported that H3N2 subclade K, a mutation of H3N2, has undergone several mutations, which haven’t been seen before in flu viruses. These mutations may make this new strain more severe than usual, with some experts suggesting that these changes could reduce the effectiveness of the current flu vaccine in preventing infection.

However, it is important to note that it is still recommended to receive the flu vaccine, as the CDC notes that the H3N2 subclade K strain can cause severe symptoms in older adults over the age of 65 and children under the age of five. Other people who are vulnerable to severe symptoms of the subclade K strain include:

Anyone who is immunocompromised

Pregnant people

People with underlying chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease

Doctors warn that flu infections, if left untreated or not treated early enough, can increase the risk of complications such as ear infections and sinus infections, as well as more serious complications such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death.

Last year, data from the CDC showed that the U.S. had the most total flu-related hospitalizations in about 15 years, and close to 280 pediatric deaths from the flu.

People who are infected with the flu usually develop symptoms about one to four days after being exposed. Flu symptoms include:

Fever and chills

Muscle and body aches

Headaches

Sore throat

Cough

Deep fatigue or tiredness

Runny nose or stuffy nose

Vomiting and diarrhea (in some cases, especially in children)

For most healthy people, the flu resolves within a week or two with rest and fluids. However, certain symptoms are red flags that indicate you need to seek immediate medical attention.

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

Persistent dizziness, confusion, or inability to wake up

Seizures

Not urinating, which is a sign of severe dehydration

Severe muscle pain

A high fever that does not respond to fever-reducing medication

Symptoms that improve but then return with a fever and worse cough

It is important to remember that getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent serious symptoms of the flu virus. There are also several steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting and spreading the flu. They include:

Washing your hands frequently with soap and water.

Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Staying home when you are sick to prevent the spread of the virus to others.

Covering your cough and sneeze with a tissue or your elbow.

Considering wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces, especially if you are around high-risk individuals.

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

Cold Cap Hair Loss Cancer Treatment

Posted on December 4, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Hair loss can be a big concern for people who are going through chemotherapy. While hair typically grows back after treatment, the loss of hair can be distressing, as it is a reminder of how cancer has changed them.

Cold capping, or scalp cooling, is a type of therapy that might reduce hair loss caused by chemotherapy.

Cold capping treatment uses a device to lower the temperature of the scalp and constrict the blood vessels. The cold helps keep cell-killing chemo away from hair follicles to protect the hair.

The two main types of scalp cooling devices are automated and manual, and they work in different ways.

Automated cold caps are automated scalp cooling systems that are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are covered by insurance. They work by connecting a special cap to an automated device that circulates a liquid or gel cooled to a specific temperature. Automated cold caps are only approved for chemo-induced hair loss related to solid tumor cancers, not blood cancers.

Manual scalp cooling devices are frozen gel caps that are not regulated by the FDA and are not covered by insurance. This type of device doesn’t use an automated cooling system. Instead, it is manually cooled in a freezer or with dry ice. The temperature for frozen gel caps must be much lower compared to automated cold cap systems, because the cap starts to warm as soon as it is put on a person’s head. A new frozen cap must be put on every 30 minutes.

A cancer care team may advise against a patient using cold capping if they:

Have blood cancers, such as leukemia or lymphoma, or have a central nervous system cancer

Have a history of migraines

Live with liver disease

Had or will have radiation therapy to the skull

Are preparing for a bone marrow transplant

Are under the age of 18

Research has shown that each person responds to scalp cooling differently. These devices work better for certain types or doses of chemotherapy. For example, if a chemo regimen includes anthracycline, scalp cooling might not work as well to reduce or prevent hair loss.

Some research also suggests that scalp cooling to prevent hair loss might not work as well for people with a thicker hair layer, compared to those with a thinner layer of hair. This could be because thicker hair insulates the scalp, preventing it from cooling down enough.

Additionally, there is research that suggests that the fit of a cooling cap is important. Cooling caps that aren’t fitted tightly have been linked with more hair loss. Increased hair loss often happens in patches where the cap’s contact with the scalp is poor. Therefore, it is highly recommended to receive cold cap therapy with the assistance or guidance of a trained healthcare professional.

Scalp cooling side effects are rare and usually tolerable. The most common side effects reported include:

Headaches

Nausea

Dry skin

Claustrophobia

General discomfort related to feeling cold

There have been a small number of reports of scalp thermal injuries that happened when people use the non-regulated manual cold caps. The MediSys Health Network Cancer Center offers cold cap treatment approved by the FDA to help patients lower their risk of chemotherapy hair loss.

If you would like to learn more about cancer treatments such as cold capping, or to learn more about our cancer care program, you can schedule an appointment with an oncologist at our MediSys Health Network Cancer Center by calling (718) 206-6742.

How Long Should You Keep Thanksgiving Leftovers?

Posted on November 28, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

It is the day after Thanksgiving, and the refrigerator is full of leftovers. It is important to know how long these leftovers should actually last to avoid foodborne illnesses.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Safety and Inspection Service recommends throwing out refrigerated leftovers after three to four days. If certain foods are kept in the freezer, they can still be eaten for three to four months after Thanksgiving.

It is important to properly store and refrigerate all leftovers within two hours at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or colder. To store them, pack the leftovers into small containers and resealable plastic bags. Storing food in smaller portions makes it easier and more convenient for them to be used when taken straight from the freezer. Using freezer or storage-specific plastic bags and plastic wrap helps prevent freezer burn because they are thicker than normal bags. Push out as much air as possible to limit any exposure to the surface of the food, which also helps prevent freezer burn.

Throw away any food that doesn’t keep well in the refrigerator, such as salads, which can become soggy and wilted. Greens such as kale and cabbage can last for up to three days.

Remove any stuffing from inside the turkey and store it separately in airtight containers. Stuffing can last up to four days in the refrigerator and two to three months in the freezer.

When storing leftover turkey, cut the turkey into smaller pieces and store them separately in small airtight containers. Turkey can last for four days in the fridge and four months in the freezer.

Gravy can last for four days in the fridge and up to four months in the freezer. When reheating the gravy, add it to a saucepan and cover it with a lid, and bring it to a rolling boil.

Homemade cranberry sauce can stay good for a week to 10 days in the fridge. Canned cranberry sauce can be kept for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container and refrigerated. It is not recommended to freeze cranberry sauce.

Potatoes and yams can be stored in the refrigerator for four days and up to two months in the freezer.

Desserts such as fruit pies can be kept at room temperature for two days. After two days, they can be stored in the refrigerator, loosely covered, for two more days.

It is important to note that you should always reheat leftovers to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, as it destroys most foodborne pathogens, preventing you from developing food poisoning.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of food poisoning, you can receive treatment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001 to schedule an appointment.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Posted on November 21, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, an annual observance dedicated to increasing awareness about lung cancer, its risk factors, early detection, and treatment options.

Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer death, claiming more lives each year than breast, prostate, ovarian, and kidney cancers combined.

Lung cancer is a kind of cancer that starts with the growth of cells in the lungs. It doesn’t usually cause symptoms early on; however, the symptoms of lung cancer occur when the disease is advanced. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer that happen in and around the lungs include:

A new cough that doesn’t go away

Chest pain

Coughing up blood

Hoarseness

Shortness of breath

Wheezing

In addition to the signs and symptoms of lung cancer in the lungs, some symptoms occur when the cancer spreads to other parts of the body, including:

Bone pain

Headaches

Losing weight without trying

Loss of appetite

Swelling in the face or neck

Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lungs develop changes in their DNA. A cell’s DNA holds instructions that tell a cell what to do. In healthy cells, the DNA gives instructions to grow and multiply at a set rate. The instructions also tell the cells to die at a set time.

In cancer cells, DNA changes give different instructions. The changes tell the cancer cells to make many more cells quickly. Cancer cells can keep living when healthy cells die, causing too many cells.

Cancer cells might form a tumor. The tumor can grow to invade and destroy healthy body tissue. In time, cancer cells can break away and spread to other parts of the body, causing metastatic cancer.

Smoking causes most lung cancer. It can cause lung cancer in both smokers and non-smokers who have been exposed to secondhand smoke. However, people who have never smoked or been exposed to secondhand smoke can develop lung cancer.

Researchers believe smoking causes lung cancer by damaging the cells that line the lungs. Cigarette smoke contains cancer-causing substances known as carcinogens. When cigarette smoke is inhaled, carcinogens immediately cause changes in the lung tissue. The body may be able to repair the damage at first, but with each repeated exposure, healthy cells lining the lungs become more damaged. Over time, the damage causes cells to change, eventually developing into cancer.

Lung cancer is divided into two major types based on the appearance of cells under a microscope. The two general types of lung cancer include:

Small-cell lung cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer

A lung cancer diagnosis often starts with an imaging test to look at the lungs for signs of cancer before it develops. Other tests used to diagnose lung cancer include:

Sputum cytology

Biopsy

There are also additional tests that can be performed if a person is diagnosed with lung cancer to see if the cancer has spread. These tests allow a healthcare provider to know what stage the cancer is in. The stages of lung cancer range from 1 to 4. These staging tests often involve imaging tests such as an MRI, CT scan, bone scans, and a PET scan. If the cancer is in stage 1, the cancer is small and only in the lung. As cancer grows larger or spreads outside of the lungs, the numbers get higher. Stage 4 lung cancer means the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Treatment for lung cancer usually begins with surgery to remove the cancer. However, if the cancer is very large or has spread to other parts of the body, surgery may not be possible. As an alternative, treatment may start with medicine and radiation instead. A healthcare team will consider many factors when creating a treatment plan. These factors may include:

Overall health

The type and stage of cancer

The patient’s preferences

Another type of treatment for lung cancer is palliative care. Palliative care specialists will work with the patient, their family, and healthcare team to provide extra support while the patient goes through their cancer treatment.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a sure way to prevent lung cancer. However, you can reduce your risk by not smoking or quitting smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke, eating a diet of fruits and vegetables, and exercising most days of the week.

If you would like to learn more about lung cancer treatments, or to learn more about our cancer care program, you can schedule an appointment with an oncologist at our MediSys Health Network Cancer Center by calling (718) 206-6742.

Meet Our Doctors- Dr. Andrew Bi

Posted on November 17, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center is proud to introduce Dr. Andrew Bi, the newest member of our orthopedic surgical team.

Dr. Bi was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in East Lyme, Connecticut, and currently resides in Queens. He graduated from the University of Connecticut magna cum laude with honors. He then graduated from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine summa cum laude with Alpha Omega Alpha honors. Then he completed his orthopedic surgery residency training at NYU Langone Orthopedics, where he served as Executive Chief Resident. Dr. Bi later underwent subspeciality training at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush in a sports medicine fellowship, where he served as assistant team physician for the Chicago Bulls, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Steel, and DePaul University.

Dr. Bi has received numerous awards for teaching, clinical care, and research, including the Ralph Lusskin Senior Resident Teaching Award, the Marian Frauenthal Sloane Clinical Research Award, and the Rush Annual Thesis Day Award.

Dr. Bi treats all aspects of orthopedic injuries with a special interest in the management of all shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee conditions, including, but not limited to robotic-assisted joint replacements for arthritis, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgeries for sports injuries, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), meniscus, cartilage, rotator cuff, and labrum injuries, and the fixation of fractures. His current research efforts involve anterior cruciate ligament injuries, meniscal allograft transplantations, rotator cuff tears, hip arthroscopy, and orthobiologics.

Dr. Bi is excited to begin at the Medisys family at Jamaica Hospital, bringing with him expertise in sports medicine subspecialization, as well as his Chinese heritage, to care for the diverse population surrounding the hospital.

If you are experiencing any conditions or injuries affecting your bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, you can schedule an appointment at Orthopedic Specialists of New York by calling 718-206-6923

Foods Rich In Magnesium

Posted on November 14, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Magnesium is a mineral that can be found in various foods. It helps support more than 300 different chemical processes throughout the human body, such as:

Muscle function

Regulating blood pressure and blood sugar levels

Promoting energy production

Nerve function and bone health

Mental health

When eating foods containing magnesium, experts recommend consuming between 310 and 420 milligrams (mg) of magnesium per day, depending on age and sex:

Babies 6 months and younger: 30 mg

7 to 12 months: 75 mg

1 to 3 years old: 80 mg

4 to 8 years: 130 mg

9 to 13 years 240 mg

14 to 18 years (male): 410 mg

14 to 18 years (female): 360 mg

19 to 30 years (male): 400 mg

19 to 30 years (female): 310 mg

31 and older male: 420 mg

31 and older female: 320 mg

Pregnant women should get an additional 40 mg of magnesium per day. Some, but not all, prenatal vitamins include magnesium.

Many foods contain magnesium, including:

Nuts and seeds:

- Roasted almonds- 1oz = 80 mg of magnesium

- Roasted cashews- 1oz = 72 mg of magnesium

- Whole flaxseeds- 1 Tbsp = 40 mg of magnesium

- Dry roasted peanuts- 1 oz = 49 mg of magnesium

- Hulled and roasted pumpkin seeds- 1 oz = 15 mg of magnesium

- Chia seeds- 1oz = 111 mg magnesium

Legumes:

- Boiled black beans- ½ cup = 60 mg of magnesium

- Cooked and prepared edamame- ½ cup = 50 mg of magnesium

- Cooked lima beans- ½ cup = 40 mg of magnesium

Fiber-rich whole grains:

- Cooked quinoa- ½ cup = 60 mg of magnesium

- Plain, unfrosted shredded wheat- 1 cup = 56 mg of magnesium

Low-fat dairy products:

- Nonfat milk- 1 cup = 24 to 27 mg of magnesium

- Plain low-fat yogurt- 8oz = 42 mg of magnesium

Greens:

- Cooked spinach- ½ cup = 78 mg of magnesium

- Cooked Swiss chard- ½ cup = 75 mg of magnesium

- Collard greens- ½ cup = 25 mg of magnesium

Fruit:

- One whole avocado = 58 mg of magnesium

- One medium banana = 32 mg of magnesium

- One small papaya = 33 mg of magnesium

- Blackberries- 1 cup = 29 mg of magnesium

Vegetables:

- Green peas- ½ cup = 31 mg of magnesium

- Sweet corn- ½ cup = 27 mg of magnesium

- One medium potato with skin on = 48 mg of magnesium

Dark chocolate that is 70%-85% cocoa- 1oz = 64 mg of magnesium

2 liters of water- up to 240 mg of magnesium

If you have a magnesium deficiency, a healthcare provider may suggest magnesium supplements. When magnesium is combined with other substances, it can help bring out specific benefits, including:

Magnesium glycinate: helps promote sleep

Magnesium citrate: helps digestion

Magnesium oxide: an antacid and aid to relieve migraines

Magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt): used as a muscle relaxant

Eating a meal that contains magnesium-rich foods is the foundation of a healthy diet and is beneficial for your overall health.

It is important to note that you should first speak with your doctor about making any changes to your diet and before taking any new supplements. To consult a physician about the best ways to get your daily amount of magnesium, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001.

Warning Signs of Blood Clots

Posted on November 12, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Blood clots are gel-like clumps of blood that have partially solidified in a blood vessel. Clotting is a natural and essential process that stops bleeding when you’re injured. However, some blood clots can form anywhere along the 60,000 miles of blood vessels in the body and are most likely to happen in the veins. These are called venous blood clots. The most common kinds of venous blood clots are:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)- DVT usually forms in the legs in the deep veins of the body. Thrombosis is when clots stay put and block blood flow.

Pulmonary embolism (PE)- Embolisms are blood clots that break free and travel to other parts of the body. If a DVT breaks off and travels to the lungs, it can create a pulmonary embolism.

Arterial clots are less common, occurring when a blood clot clogs an artery. These clots can block oxygen from reaching the heart or brain, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Anyone can develop a blood clot; however, certain factors can increase the risk of developing them, including:

Prolonged immobility, such as during long flights or hospital stays

Surgery, especially involving the legs, hips, or abdomen

Pregnancy and the postpartum period

Hormonal birth control or hormone replacement therapy

Smoking

Obesity

Family history of blood clots or clotting disorders

Cancer or cancer treatments

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a blood clot can be lifesaving. Here are the signs and symptoms to watch out for:

Swelling in one limb

Pain or tenderness in the affected area

Red or discolored skin

Warmth in the skin

Sudden shortness of breath

Chest pain

Coughing, possibly with blood

Rapid heartbeat or palpitations

Leg fatigue or heaviness

Dizziness or fainting

Blood clots are known to be silent killers as their symptoms can be similar to symptoms of other, less serious conditions. That’s why it is crucial to understand and recognize the signs and symptoms of blood clots, especially if you are at an increased risk of developing them. Awareness and timely action can help prevent major complications from a stroke, pulmonary embolism, or heart attack.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a blood clot or think you may be at risk of developing one, you can 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.

Best Sleep Postures

Posted on November 7, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Everyone has a particular position they use while sleeping. However, people frequently overlook the importance of their sleeping position.

Your sleep posture can influence how your body feels, the quality of your sleep, and even certain health conditions. Finding the right sleep position can relieve stress on the spine and joints, and may also impact factors such as a person’s breathing and risk of heartburn.

The best sleep position is one that promotes healthy spine alignment from the hips to the head. What works best for a person depends on their health situation and what they find comfortable.

Some sleep positions are healthier than others. For example, sleeping on the side or back is considered more beneficial than sleeping on the stomach. In either of these positions, it is easier to keep your spine supported and balanced because it relieves pressure, allowing the muscles to relax and recover.

Spinal support is only one part of the equation. Sleeping positions can also have effects on a range of health issues, including sleep apnea, acid reflux, and pain.

If a person is suffering from sleep apnea, the best sleep position to help reduce symptoms is to sleep on their side or stomach because it keeps their airways open while they sleep.

For a person with heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the best sleeping position is on their left side, which helps make it harder for stomach acid to reach the junction between the stomach and esophagus.

Sleeping on your side with your knees slightly bent with a small pillow between them is the best sleeping position for someone who has lower back pain, which allows the entire spine to stay in a neutral position, and that spinal alignment helps reduce neck and back pain.

To help someone relieve their neck pain, the best sleeping position is on their back with their arms in a similar position. This reduces the overactivity of the muscles around the neck and doesn’t put more pressure on one side of their body.

If someone is experiencing both hip and knee pain, they can reduce the pain by sleeping on their side with a pillow between their knees, which can keep the hips, pelvis, and spine aligned, easing pressure on joints and muscles.

For women who are pregnant, the best sleeping position is on their left side with their knees bent, which improves circulation, making it easier for nutrient-rich blood to reach the placenta, and can help reduce pressure on the liver and lower back. It may also help ease swelling in the legs, feet, and hands.

When a person has allergies or a stuffy nose, sleeping upright is the best sleeping position to help their airways stay open, allowing the stuffy nose to drain.

Getting a good night’s sleep is important to your health and well-being. However, sometimes the position you choose to sleep in can cause or worsen breathing problems, such as sleep apnea, or aggravate back and neck pain. If any of these conditions arise, you may want to try to sleep in a different position.

If you are having difficulty sleeping and would like help, Jamaica Hospital’s state-of-the-art sleep center can help diagnose and treat various sleep disorders. For more information or to make an appointment, please call 718-206-5916.

What is Misophonia?

Posted on November 6, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Misophonia is a sensory condition that causes a person to have extreme sensitivity to specific sounds or stimuli, also known as triggers, resulting in them experiencing intense emotional, physical, and behavioral responses to those triggers.

The symptoms of misophonia revolve around how a person reacts to trigger sounds. The reactions are a part of the body’s natural “fight-or-flight” instincts.

When a person experiences an emotional reaction to a trigger, the feelings can be intense or overwhelming. These feelings escalate rapidly, causing irritation or annoyance to quickly turn into anger or rage. Emotional reactions can include:

· Anger

· Anxiety

· Disgust

· Fear

· Irritation

If a person experiences a physical reaction to a trigger, the self-protective process automatically kicks in, similarly to what happens when a person is in a dangerous or frightening situation. Physical reactions can include:

· Increase in blood pressure

· Chest pressure or tightness

· Goosebumps

· Increase in heart rate

· Sweating

When a person experiences a behavioral reaction to a trigger, the reaction is usually impulse- or instinct-driven. This means that a person may not have full control over those reactions. Violent reactions, towards either people or objects, are possible but not common. Behavioral reactions can include:

· Avoiding situations where trigger sounds can happen

· Leaving the area when a trigger sound happens

· Verbal or vocal reactions, such as talking or yelling at who/what made the sound

· Non-violent action to stop the sound

· Violent action to stop the sound

This phenomenon of misophonia affects people differently. Some people may only have one trigger that causes those responses. However, some people can have several trigger sounds.

Additionally, they can have responses that are more or less severe. Some may not be able to control the emotions they feel, but can control their responses. Others may not be able to control either, causing them to react impulsively. In the most severe cases, people may not be able to do certain things or be in specific environments.

There is research that shows that misophonia can affect anyone, but it seems to be more common in women. Estimates on how it affects people based on sex vary, ranging from 55%-83% of cases happening in women.

Misophonia can develop at any age. However, research indicates that it is most likely to develop in the early teenage years.

More research is necessary to determine if other factors can affect who is most likely to develop misophonia, but available research indicates misophonia may affect approximately one in five people during their lifetime.

Experts aren’t sure what causes misophonia. However, they suspect it may be a combination of factors, including:

· Brain structure differences

· Other conditions such as neurodivergence, mental health conditions, and hearing-related conditions or symptoms

· Family history or genetics

The American Psychiatric Association hasn’t recognized misophonia in the fifth and most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), yet. However, in 2022, an expert committee created a consensus definition for research, diagnosis, and treatment purposes.

A healthcare provider can recognize the most common features of misophonia by asking questions about what you experience. Based on your answers, they can tell you if you seem to have the condition. However, that is not the same as a formal diagnosis.

Although misophonia isn’t an officially recognized condition, that doesn’t mean its effects are untreatable. The similarities and links between misophonia and other conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), indicate that people with this condition may benefit from various forms of mental health therapy.

While mental health therapies can’t cure a condition such as misophonia, they can help with the following:

· Identifying triggers

· Finding ways to minimize or prevent trigger sounds

· Developing coping strategies and techniques to avoid impulsive reactions to trigger sounds

· Reducing sensitivity to existing triggers

Treatments for misophonia-related conditions, such as anxiety or OCD, can also help with misophonia symptoms. A healthcare provider is the best person to tell you if treating related conditions can help and what treatments they recommend.

Many people with sound sensitivity conditions, including misophonia, can adapt to or manage this condition using common items, technology, or adaptation techniques, including:

· Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones/earbuds

· Listening to something to keep the brain’s hearing-related processes focused on something other than listening for a trigger sound

· Noise generator sounds, especially white, pink, or brown noise sounds

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.