Lupus Awareness Month

Posted on May 21, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

May is observed as Lupus Awareness Month, a month used to educate, advocate, and support those affected by lupus.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its tissues and organs. Inflammation caused by lupus can affect many different body systems, such as the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs.

Healthcare providers sometimes call lupus systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is the most common type of lupus, which means you have lupus throughout your body. Other types of lupus include:

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus is lupus that only affects your skin
Drug-induced lupus occurs when some medications trigger lupus symptoms as a side effect. It is usually temporary and might go away after you stop taking the medication that caused it
Neonatal lupus occurs when babies are sometimes born with lupus. Babies born to biological parents with lupus aren’t certain to have lupus, but they might have an increased risk

No two cases of lupus are exactly alike. Signs and symptoms may come on suddenly or develop slowly, may be mild or severe, and may be temporary or permanent. Most people with lupus have a mild form of the disease characterized by flare-ups, when signs and symptoms may get worse for a while, and then improve or disappear completely for a time.

The signs and symptoms of lupus you experience will depend on which body systems are affected by the disease. The most common signs and symptoms include:

Fatigue
Fever
Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
A butterfly-shaped rash on the face that covers the cheeks and bridge of the nose, or rashes elsewhere on the body
Skin lesions that appear or worsen with sun exposure
Fingers and toes that turn white or blue when exposed to cold or during stressful periods
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Dry eyes
Headaches, confusion, and memory loss

Lupus likely results from a combination of genetics and environment.

People with an inherited predisposition for lupus may develop the disease when they come into contact with an environmental trigger of the disease. Some potential triggers of lupus include:

Sunlight
Infections

Diagnosing lupus is difficult because signs and symptoms can vary from person to person and may change over time, overlapping with those of many other disorders.

No one test can diagnose lupus. The combination of blood and urine tests, signs and symptoms, and results of a physical examination can lead to a diagnosis. Blood and urine tests may include:

A complete blood count
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
Kidney and liver assessment
Urinalysis
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test

If your healthcare provider suspects that lupus is affecting your lungs or heart, they may suggest imaging tests that can include:

A chest X-ray
An echocardiogram

Lupus can harm the kidneys in many ways, and treatments can vary depending on the type of damage it causes. Sometimes, a kidney biopsy is needed to determine the best treatment. A skin biopsy can be performed to confirm a diagnosis of lupus affecting the skin.

A healthcare provider will suggest treatments for lupus that manage your symptoms. The goal is to minimize damage to the organs and how much lupus affects your day-to-day life. Most people with lupus need a combination of medications to help them prevent flare-ups and lessen the severity of symptoms during one. Medications you might need include:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Corticosteroids
Antimalarial drugs
Immunosuppressants
Biologics

Simple measures can help prevent lupus flare-ups if they occur, and help you to better cope with the signs and symptoms you experience, including:

Seeing your doctor regularly
Being sun smart
Getting regular exercise
Quitting smoking
Eating a healthy diet
Asking your healthcare provider if you need vitamin D and calcium supplements

For more information about the Lupus Center at the campus of Jamaica Hospital Medical Center or to make an appointment with a lupus doctor, call (718) 206-9888 or the Lupus Hotline at 1-877-33-LUPUS.

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.

Hop into the Kitchen to Make this Delicious Recipe for Spring Vegetable Fettucine Alfredo

Posted on April 3, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Spring is here! As the temperatures warm up, how and what we eat changes. Here is a light and delicious recipe for spring vegetable fettuccine alfredo. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/spring-vegetable-fettuccine-alfredo-3577686

Winter Dehydration

Posted on January 24, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Dehydration in the winter may seem less likely than in the summertime, but it is still a risk. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the recommended amount of daily fluid intake is around 15.5 cups for men and 11.5 for women. For many of us, it might be harder to reach these quantities during the winter months.

Some causes of winter dehydration include:

Indoor heat
Bundling up in too many layers
Lack of thirst
Fluid loss from respiration
More frequent urination

There are many signs of dehydration, including:

The color of your urine
Constipation
Fatigue
Dry mouth and chapped lips
Dry skin
Headaches
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Feeling faint or dizzy
A rapid heart rate

Here are some tips for staying hydrated in the winter:

Drink warm fluids if it is too difficult to drink cold water when it’s cold outside.
Infuse plain water with flavor, by adding flavorings such as a wedge of lemon or lime, other pieces of fruit, or unsweetened water enhancers.
Carry a reusable water bottle with you to encourage daily hydration.
Eat homemade soups and water-rich fruits and vegetables to help increase fluid intake
Avoid drinking caffeine as it can contribute to dehydration.
Swap drinking an alcoholic beverage for a mocktail.
Make hydration a routine by drinking a certain amount of water daily.

If you have symptoms of dehydration, consult a physician immediately. Severe cases can lead to complications and potentially death. For less severe cases, you can schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center, by calling (718) 206-7001. If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.

Integrative Health Month

Posted on January 23, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

January is Integrative Health Month. It raises awareness of the need for collaborative care among various disciplines to treat the whole person instead of a symptom-only approach.

Integrative health uses an evidence-based approach to treating a patient’s mind, body, and soul. Because physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs are all involved, integrative health combines these therapies.

The relationships between you and your healthcare providers are important in integrative health. You are equal partners in your healing process, as integrative health aims for well-coordinated care among different providers and specialists.

A variety of healthcare providers delivers care through integrative health, including:

Physicians
Chiropractic doctors
Holistic mind-body psychotherapists
Acupuncturists
Chinese herbal therapists
Tai chi practitioners
Yoga practitioners
Massage therapists
Nutritionists
Chefs (culinary medicine)

Integrative health physicians don’t replace your primary care provider or specialist. They work with all members of your healthcare team to heal your mind, body, and spirit. Their expertise lies in preventing and managing chronic diseases not in treating acute medical problems. You should see your primary care or emergency medicine physician for acute and medical emergencies.

Many people can benefit from integrative health including those who are healthy. People with chronic or complex conditions may especially find the approach helpful. Integrative health can help you find relief for many medical conditions, including:

Autoimmune diseases
Acute and chronic pain
Breathing disorders
Headaches and migraines
Cancer and cancer-related side effects
Chronic fatigue
Cold/flu symptoms
Digestive disorders
Infertility
Menopausal symptoms
Menstrual issues
Mental and emotional health issues
Obesity
High blood pressure
Sleep issues

Integrative health techniques support the body’s natural ability to heal. They help reduce stress and promote a state of relaxation that leads to better health. Integrative health can help you achieve optimal health when you engage in your own healing and feel empowered to make lifestyle changes. Adding integrative health to your healthcare routine can help you regain control of your well-being.

To learn more about Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s integrative health services, events, or classes, or to schedule an appointment, please call us at (718) 206-5675.

15 Foods to Add to Your Diet to Boost Your Brain Health

Posted on December 27, 2024 by Patrick Hercules

The brain is the command center of the body. It processes information and sends messages controlling everything your body does from thoughts and emotions to memory and motor skills.

As we age, the brain experiences physiological changes that affect memory, focus, and word recall. Fortunately, we can combat some of these changes with our diet, which plays a major role in keeping our minds sharp and maintaining our mental function.

Brain foods are foods that can benefit brain health. They contain various nutrients that keep the brain functioning well. They include:

Omega-3 fatty acids
B vitamins
Vitamin E
Vitamin C
Vitamin K
Selenium
Iron
Choline

Eating a diet rich in these nutrients can help fight off common brain-related conditions and symptoms often associated with age. These nutrients may help with:

Brain development
Proper signaling of neurotransmitters
Processing and understanding new information
Memory
Protein balance
Reducing the risk of brain-related conditions linked to inflammation, such as depression and dementia

Here are 15 foods to add to your diet that are rich in essential nutrients:

Eggs
Fatty fish
Berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries
Broccoli
Mushrooms
Walnuts
Turmeric
Coffee
Leafy greens
Green tea
Dark chocolate
Fermented dairy
Avocados
Certain fruit juices such as pomegranate, grape, and cherry juice
Whole grains

Remember, no food on its own will magically transform your brain. However, eating brain foods regularly can keep your brain sharp and maintain your cognitive ability as you age. Maintaining an overall healthy eating pattern is important to reap the health benefits of these nutrient-rich foods.

Living with Diabetes during the Holidays

Posted on December 12, 2024 by Patrick Hercules

Making healthy choices during the winter holidays can be challenging for many people. It can be even more challenging for people with diabetes.

If you are a diabetic, it is important to eat mindfully by following your diet and making a plan. Here are some tips to help you enjoy a diabetes-friendly holiday season:

Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly
Stay hydrated
Communicate with family and friends about your diabetes needs and how they can support you
Stay active
- Take short walks
- Dance or play games
Plan for holiday meals
- Choose healthier options
- Watch portion sizes
- Balance your plate
Prepare for travel
- Pack your diabetes kit
- Carry snacks
Get enough sleep
Don’t skip meals
Watch what you drink and how much
Talk to your doctor about changes in your health
Take care of your mental health
- Practice mindfulness
- Set realistic expectations

With some planning and preparation, you can still enjoy the holidays and your favorite foods while managing your blood sugar.

To schedule an appointment with an endocrinologist, please call Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at (718) 206-7001.

Endocrine disruptors

Posted on November 13, 2024 by Patrick Hercules

Endocrine disruptors are natural or man-made chemicals that may mimic or interfere with how the body’s hormones, which are part of the endocrine system, work. The endocrine system is a network of glands and organs that produce, store, and secrete hormones. These chemicals are linked to many health problems in both wildlife and people. Since endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) come from many different sources, people are exposed in several ways, including the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink. EDCs can also enter the body through the skin.

Endocrine disruptors can disrupt many different hormones, which is why they have been linked to numerous adverse human health outcomes, including:

Alterations in sperm quality and fertility
Abnormalities in sex organs
Endometriosis
Early puberty
Altered nervous system function
Immune function
Certain cancers
Respiratory and cardiovascular problems
Metabolic issues
Diabetes
Obesity
Growth
Neurological and learning disabilities

According to the Endocrine Society, there are nearly 85,000 human-made chemicals worldwide, and 1,000 or more of those could be endocrine disruptors based on their unique properties. The following chemicals are among the most common and well-studied:

Atrazine
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Dioxins
Perchlorate
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
Phthalates
Phytoestrogens
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE)
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
Triclosan

High EDC exposures during fetal development and childhood can have long-lasting health effects since there are periods where hormones regulate the formation and maturation of organs. Early-life exposures have been linked to developmental abnormalities and may increase the risk for various diseases later in life.

Many EDCs have been found to cross the placenta and become concentrated in the fetus’ circulatory system. Other EDCs can be transferred from mother to infant through breast milk.

Although evidence linking EDCs to adverse health outcomes grows, the cause-and-effect relationship is not yet fully understood. Generally, chronic high exposure poses the highest risk, however, a developing fetus or infant is more vulnerable to lower exposures.

Additionally, a person’s genetic predisposition to specific health conditions and additional environmental risk factors can modify how a person is affected by EDCs.

For more information about Jamaica Hospital’s endocrinology service, or to make an appointment, please call 718-206-7001.

This Recipe For Mom’s Lasagna Will Comfort You And Keep You Warm On A Cold Fall Night

Posted on October 25, 2024 by Patrick Hercules

As the fall temperatures get colder we’ll be spending more time indoors. Here is a comforting fall recipe for Mom’s lasagna to keep you warm during the cold, autumn months.

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/michael-symon/moms-lasagna-fall-version-11957227

A Flavorsome and Comforting Chicken Chili Recipe for Fall Dinners

Posted on September 6, 2024 by Patrick Hercules

As the summer fades into fall, here is a comforting and delicious recipe for chicken chili to add to your dinner rotation.

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/katie-lee/chicken-chili-3869708

Listeria, What You Should Know

Posted on August 2, 2024 by Patrick Hercules

There have been products such as deli meats, vegetables, dips and salsas, and plant-based milk recalled due to a recent listeria outbreak.

Listeria or Listeria monocytogenes, is a species of pathogenic or disease-causing bacteria found in moist environments, soil, water, decaying vegetation, and animal feces. It can survive and even grow under refrigeration and other food preservation measures.

Most people encounter listeria or listeriosis as a foodborne illness as it can be found in hot dogs, deli meats, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits especially melons, and unpasteurized dairy products. These foods have the highest risk of listeria contamination. However, any food that is improperly handled or prepared can be affected.

The listeria bacteria is unique compared to other types of bacteria because it survives and multiplies in low temperatures, including refrigerators and freezers. It can multiply to dangerous levels during storage. It also doesn’t change the smell, taste, or texture when it contaminates food like other bacteria.

Most people get listeriosis from eating contaminated foods. The listeriosis incubation period (the time between when you first get infected and when you first show symptoms) varies. It usually takes one to two weeks. But it can be as short as a couple of days or as long as three months.

The symptoms of a listeria infection include:

Fever
Chills
Muscle aches
Nausea
Diarrhea

If the listeria infection spreads to your nervous system, symptoms may include:

Headache
Stiff neck
Confusion or changes in alertness
Loss of balance
Convulsions

Those at risk of severe infection from listeria include:

Pregnant women
People older than 65 years old
People with weakened immune systems
People suffering from chronic diseases

A blood test is often the most effective way to determine whether you have a listeria infection. Samples of urine and spinal fluid may also be tested.

The treatment of listeria infection varies depending on the severity of the signs and symptoms. Most people with mild symptoms require no treatment at all. More serious listeria infections can be treated with antibiotics.

Some ways to prevent a listeria infection include:

1) Keeping things clean- wash your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water before and after handling or preparing food. After cooking, use hot, soapy water to wash the utensils, cutting boards, and other food preparation services.

2) Scrub raw vegetables- clean raw vegetables with a scrub brush or vegetable brush under plenty of running water.

3) Cook your food thoroughly- Use a food thermometer to make sure your meat, poultry, and egg dishes are cooked to a safe temperature.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a listeria infection you can see a gastroenterologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 206-7001. If you or someone you are with are experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.