Measles Vaccine

Posted on April 30, 2015 by Andrew Rubin

The measles, once an endemic disease, responsible for as many as 542,000 cases a year, has now become almost completely eradicated in the United States due to the development of a measles vaccine.
The measles virus was first isolated by virologist John Enders in 1954. The measles vaccine was licensed in 1963 and has been widely responsible for the almost total elimination of the disease in the United States. This is due to pre-school and school aged children now being routinely vaccinated almost universally in the United States. The vaccine is now administered together with the vaccines for mumps and rubella, and is called the MMR vaccine. Despite the effectiveness of the vaccine, there are still cases being seen due to exposure to people who are bringing it in from outside the country.
To schedule an appointment with a pediatrician at Jamaica Hospital, please call 718-206-7001

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.

Is My Teen Troubled?

Posted on April 14, 2015 by Joann Ariola

Although there are many books that offer tips, there isn’t a universal reference guide that can prepare a parent for what will happen during their child’s teenage years. There are so many changes that your teen is facing that could influence them in a positive or negative way.

As your teenager begins to assert their independence, some behavioral changes may become bizarre and unpredictable. Your once sweet, obedient child, who always wanted to be with you, now wants to have as little association with you as possible. The child that hung on to your every word now rolls their eyes when you give your opinion or advice. These are the actions of a normal teenager, but how can you know if their behavior is a sign of greater issues?

Some teenagers exhibit a break in communication, fighting, defiance, violent mood swings and explosive anger. These teens face behavioral, emotional, and learning problems that are beyond the normal teenage issues and pose a greater challenge for their parents.

Some warning signs that your teen may be troubled are:

Changes in appearance, if it is accompanied by problems at school other negative changes in behavior, such as self-harm or extreme weight loss or weight gain.
Repeated escalation of arguments, violence at home, skipping school, getting into fights, and run-ins with the law.
Rapid changes in personality, falling grades, persistent sadness, anxiety or sleep problems, depression, bullying or talk of suicide.
Alcohol consumption or drug use becomes habitual.
A sudden change in peer group, especially if the new friends encourage negative behavior.

The challenge for parents is to help their teen cope with emotions and deal with anger in a more constructive way. First, parents need to establish clear rules and consequences; teens need rules now more than ever. Secondly, suggest exercise and team sports to your teen, they have proven effective in the relief of tension and anger, give your teen and yourself, space to cool off. Lastly, you can’t help your teen if you lose your temper as well.

Parenting a troubled teen can seem like an impossible task, but identifying red flag behaviors in your teen, seeking help from a doctor, counselor, therapist or other mental health professional is a step in the right direction.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the Department of Psychiatry at Flushing Hospital Medical Center 718-670-4416.

Is Your Child at Risk of Developing Hypertension?

Posted on April 3, 2015 by Michael Hinck

Hypertension is a health concern traditionally associated with adults, but more and more children are being diagnosed with this condition, leaving parents with questions about how to manage their children’s high blood pressure.

There is no target number for hypertension in children. What is considered a normal blood pressure for a child changes as he or she grows. Factors such as age, gender, and height determine what a child’s ideal blood pressure should be. If a child’s blood pressure is at or above 95% of children with the same characteristics.

High blood pressure in children is usually caused by another medical condition such as heart defects, kidney disease, genetic conditions or hormonal disorders. For some children however, hypertension can be caused by lifestyle issues including poor diet and lack of exercise.

As is the case in adults, hypertension in children does cause any symptoms. Unless your child has an underlying health problem, a special visit to your pediatrician to check your child’s blood pressure is not necessary. Your child’s blood pressure should be checked at their annual check-up, beginning at age three. If your child has certain risk factors, such as being overweight or obese, speak with your child’s doctor to determine if closer monitoring is necessary.

The best way to treat your child’s hypertension is to make lifestyle changes. You can start by providing your child a healthy diet high in fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains and reduce the amount of salt in their diet by eliminating salty snacks and paying close attention to the amount of salt you use when cooking. You should also encourage physical activity by limiting time spent in front of the television and on other electronic devices. Make an effort to get the entire family involved in the lifestyle changes because children often learn and imitate the behaviors of their parents.

If these changes in your child’s lifestyle do not reduce their blood pressure, your pediatrician can recommend certain medications, such as diuretics or beta blockers, to address the situation.

If left untreated, your child’s high blood pressure can carry over into adulthood and increase their risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and kidney disease.
Speak to your pediatrician if you think your child is at risk of hypertension. To schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital’s Pediatric Ambulatory Care Center, please call 718-206-7001.

Why Do People Eat Dirt, Chalk or Other Non -food Items?

Posted on March 17, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Why are some people addicted to eating substances that are not food? The answer is that they may have an eating disorder known as pica. A common characteristic of the disorder is the consistent consumption of non-nutritive substances for at least one month.

There are several reasons why a person may be demonstrating behaviors associated with pica- it could be a chemical imbalance, a nutritional deficiency such as an iron deficiency or an obsessive compulsive disorder.

Pica-related behaviors should be addressed immediately because of the risk of complications that can occur. Individuals could expose themselves to serious infections and medical conditions such as parasitic infestations, ulcers, intestinal obstructions and tooth abrasions.

Symptoms and complications that are commonly linked with pica can include:

Eating sand or soil, this potentially leads to gastric pain and bleeding.
Consuming clay, which may cause constipation.
Ingesting paint, could put a person at risk for contracting lead poisoning
Eating metal objects, this could lead to bowel perforation.

Some people are more likely than others to be subject to this eating disorder. These individuals may include:

Pregnant women (Pica is most common in women with their first pregnancy; they may crave items such as ice or chalk).
10 to 32 percent of children between the ages of one to six.
Adults with OCD or schizophrenia.
People who are malnourished.
Individuals who are mentally or developmentally disabled.

There are several approaches that can be exercised in the treatment of pica. Treatment depends on the diagnosis. A physician may run blood tests to determine if the reason for the disorder may be a result of a nutritional deficiency. If this is the case, nutrients that are lacking are supplemented. Another approach may be therapy to address mental health or environmental health issues. It is recommended that a resolution be sought immediately because if left untreated pica can persist for years and may cause irreversible damage.

Breastfeeding is Nutritious, Effective and FREE!

Posted on March 11, 2015 by Joann Ariola

There are many factors to consider when choosing to breast feed or formula feed your baby.

The American Pregnancy Association recommends breastfeeding for most families because breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for infants. It is a nearly perfect mix of all the ingredients your baby will need to grow. Breast milk contains vitamins, protein, and antibodies that help your baby fight off viruses, as well as, being more easily digested than infant formula.

A mother’s milk is always the perfect temperature, does not have a preparation time and is readily available at any time and place.

There is also a great financial benefit to breastfeeding. Formula prices can range from $54.00 to $198.00 per month depending on the brand. The additional cost of bottles, nipples and preparation should also be factored into this expense.Breast feeding not only saves you time and money, it will give you time to relax quietly with your newborn and bond.If you have any questions about breastfeeding and would like to speak with a lactation specialist, call Jamaica Hospital’s Women’s Health Center at 718-291-3276.

Prenatal Customs From Around The World

Posted on March 3, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Prenatal customs may vary from country to country but what is found to be universal is: mothers want what’s best for their babies. In order to ensure the health of developing babies some mothers may practice customs that may seem unusual or non-traditional. Here a few customs practiced by women from around the world that are believed to be beneficial during pregnancy:

Japan– It is believed by some that being surrounded by positive images, thinking and music promotes a healthy pregnancy. It is also customary for mother and baby to stay at the mother’s parents’ home for at least a month after leaving the hospital.

Bali-In Bali moms-to-be are at times discouraged from eating octopus; it is believed that doing so can cause difficulties during pregnancy.

Netherlands– Most expecting mothers in Holland are often referred to a midwife during pregnancy instead of an obstetrician. Family doctors will however refer women to an obstetrician if the pregnancy is high risk or if there are complications during delivery.

Bolivia-It is believed by a number of women that knitting while pregnant endangers the baby because knitting may cause the umbilical cord to wrap around the baby’s neck.

Guatemala– Some women in this country believe that remaining inside the home for the entire nine months of gestation will protect the infant from evil or illnesses.

China- Several women in China wear anti-radiation vests to protect developing babies from the exposure of cell phones, microwaves and computers. It is believed that exposure to these items can lead to birth defects and miscarriages.

Panama- Mothers are often encouraged to only eat natural foods and avoid processed foods. The consumption of only natural foods will prevent colic and help the mother in regaining her figure.

Mexico– Many believe if the mother does not eat the food that she is craving during pregnancy; the baby will be born with a birth mark in the shape of that food.

Kenya- The Akamaba people of Kenya may discourage sex during pregnancy; it is believed that sex may result in the birth of a disabled child.

Integrating practices in modern medicine and traditional customs often prove beneficial for fetal development. Women are highly encouraged to seek prenatal care from a medical professional as soon as possible. Early prenatal care can reduce the odds of having low birth weight, identify risks or complications and decrease the risk of pre-term birth.

Don’t Throw the Baby Out with the Bath Water

Posted on December 17, 2014 by Joann Ariola

Whether you are a new or seasoned parent, sleepless nights caused by your newborns restlessness can be un-nerving. You ask yourself the basic questions, “Is my baby’s diaper dry or is he/she hungry?” The answer could be, neither. If your baby is fussy, cranky and seems to be experiencing stomach pain, they could be “colicky.”

The condition known as colic is the term that applies to any healthy, well-fed infant, approximately two to three weeks old, who cries more than three hours a day, more than three days per week, for more than three weeks. The exact cause of Colic is unknown, which is why there isn’t a defined prescription to alleviate the discomfort associated with this condition.

Reasons for symptoms could be:

Tummy trouble, perhaps a problem with cow’s milk protein or lactose in some baby formulas.
Reflux, which is heartburn due to stomach acid and milk flowing back into the windpipe.
A growing digestive system with muscles that often spasm.
Hormones that cause stomachaches or a fussy mood.
Oversensitivity or over-stimulated by light, noise, etc.
A moody baby.
A still-developing nervous system.

It is helpful to attempt to ease your infant’s acid reflux. Try feeding half as much and twice as often. A smaller volume of food will empty from the stomach faster leaving less chance of it rising back up in the esophagus. An infant’s stomach is only the size of their own fist, so you can understand why their stomach can become overwhelmed.

Another measure you can take in preventing colic is to make sure you are relieving any gas that may be trapped. Gently rub your baby’s back, in an upward motion, to help release any gas that may have formed during their feeding. Laying your infant down, immediately after a feeding, is discouraged since a prone position can cause acid-reflux.

In addition, crying after a feeding increases intro-abdominal pressure, this can cause abdominal pain so attempt to soothe your infant. The calmer your baby is, the better their stomach will tolerate milk.

There is light at the end of the tunnel. The symptoms usually begin to subside, on its own, by the time the infant reaches three or four months old.

If your baby is experiencing the symptoms of colic, you can make an appointment at The Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Call 718-206-7005

Skin Changes During Pregnancy: What to Expect

Posted on October 31, 2014 by Xavia Malcolm

During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes a complete transformation. Many of these changes are due to hormonal shifts and altered blood flow. Women may experience several changes in their skin.

Often, changes in pigmentation are among the most pronounced skin changes during pregnancy. Dark patches may begin to appear on a woman’s face, particularly along the cheekbone, forehead, nose, chin, and upper lip. This is known a chloasma, or the mask of pregnancy. This occurs because estrogen and other hormones stimulate glands that produce more pigment, but since the pigment is not produced evenly, it results in a blotchy look. While chloasma is not preventable, the effects can be minimized by avoiding exposure to the sun or using sunblock.

Many women also develop acne during pregnancy. This is due to hormonal changes, but is usually not as severe as during adolescence. To combat pimples, simply wash your face with a mild, oil-free cleanser multiple times a day. Avoid abrasive scrubs and exfoliants because your skin during pregnancy is often more sensitive. Check with your physician before using ante-acne prescription medications.

Other skin conditions that women experience during pregnancy include stretch marks, heat rash, spider veins, and the development of a reddish hue to the palms of your hands and soles of your feet, known as palmer erythema.

Regardless of the issue, skin conditions during pregnancy will improve or resolve within weeks or months after your baby is born.

To minimize adverse skin conditions during pregnancy, try following the “pregnancy diet”, a diet that offers women just the right balance of nutrients during pregnancy. Other suggestions include drinking plenty of water and only using “noncomedogenic” and unscented makeup and skin care products. A supplement of B6 might also be helpful for someone with severe skin issues.

For more information about changes to your skin during pregnancy, speak to your obstetrician. If you do not have one, you can make an appointment at Jamaica Hospital’s Women’s Health Center by calling 718-291-3276.

Follow & Like us on Twitter and Facebook:

Your Child and the Battle Against Junk Food

Posted on October 20, 2014 by Xavia Malcolm

Childhood obesity has become a common health concern for parents. It is estimated that one in every five children is overweight. A child is defined as obese when they are well above the normal weight for their age. One of the contributing factors in obesity is unhealthy eating habits. It is recommended that parents introduce healthy eating to children as early as possible. For some, this may be easier said than done, because children are so easily attracted to the appeal of junk food.

What makes junk food enticing to children is sugar, high sodium, the taste of fat; commonly hydrogenated oils, in addition to bright, colorful packaging, fun shapes and unnatural food coloring. Parents can win the fight against junk food by making healthy food more appealing to children’s senses.

Here are a few tips on converting kid favorites into healthier choices:

Hot dogs- Instead of regular beef and pork hot dogs, purchase turkey franks with low sodium and without added nitrates. Decorate the hot dog with colorful vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, red and yellow peppers.
Salty cheese snacks- Make plain cheese fun by cutting it into quirky shapes or adding bright and sweet fruit. You can make cheese and fruit shish kebabs.
French fries- Opt for baked sweet potato fries and sprinkle lightly with sea salt. Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin C, B6, and D. They are a source of Iron, magnesium and potassium.
Ice cream- Frozen yogurt is just as tasty and contains less sugar and fat. Adding toppings such as fruit and granola is a plus.
Popsicles- Freeze real fruit juices with bits of fruit into bars.
Potato chips- Kale chips are rich in vitamin A and easy to make at home. Make them delicious by adding herbs and spices.
Candy- Healthy alternatives to candy include raisins or strawberries and bananas lightly drizzled with chocolate.
Milkshakes- Smoothies made with fresh fruit and low-fat yogurt are a healthier option.
Meat lasagna- Load lasagna with vegetables instead of meat, choose low-fat cheese and whole-grain pasta.
Macaroni and cheese-Use low-fat cheese, add Greek yogurt to make it creamy and spinach to make it nutritious.

The battle against junk food is not lost. Keep food exciting and nutritious for your family by sourcing healthy recipe websites or visiting Jamaica Hospital’s Facebook and Twitter pages for suggestions. In addition to healthy eating, keep your family physically active and also make an appointment with your family doctor to ensure that everyone is at their recommended weight. Feel free to share these tips with friend and family.

If Your Baby is Not Latching On; It Could be Tongue-Tie

Posted on October 6, 2014 by Xavia Malcolm

One of the most intimate moments shared between mother and baby is during breastfeeding. If the infant does not latch on to the mother’s breast she may feel rejected, bewildered and frustrated. Before becoming distressed a mother should look into reasons why the baby is refusing to breastfeed; one of which could be a condition called ankyloglossia, otherwise known as tongue-tie.

Tongue-Tie is a congenital condition which restricts the tongue’s range of motion. It is caused by an abnormally thick and short lingual frenulum. The frenulum is the membrane which connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. The degree of severity in tongue-tie varies from mild cases, where the lingual frenulum loosens over time or severe cases of complete ankyloglossia where the tongue is tethered to the floor of the mouth. This can affect feeding.

Breastfeeding requires the baby to place the tongue over the lower gum while sucking. If the infant‘s range of motion is limited and is unable to place the tongue in the right position, this will interfere with the ability to get milk. Poor breastfeeding can lead to poor nutrition.

A consultation with a lactation specialist or physician to explore all causes for breast-feeding refusal is usually the first step in evaluating the baby. If it is determined that the infant does have severe tongue-tie and the ability to feed is compromised, a simple and quick surgery may be suggested.

The surgical procedure most commonly recommended is called a frenotomy; which can be done with or without anesthesia. During the procedure a physician will examine the frenulum, then use sterile scissors to snip it free. A frenotomy can also be done by laser. The physician may also recommend a frenectomy which is a surgical revision of the frenulum.

After surgery the infant’s tongue movement should improve greatly and in most cases breastfeeding can commence immediately.

To obtain more information about breastfeeding or to schedule a consultation with a lactation specialist at Jamaica Hospital, please call 718-291-3276.