Is Smoking Cigars Any Safer Than Smoking Cigarettes?

Posted on May 19, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Cigarette sales are beginning to see a decline while cigar consumption has been rising steadily. This is partly attributed to the growing belief that cigars are a safer alternative to cigarettes. Many smokers perceive cigars as having fewer health risks because the smoke is not inhaled into the lungs but is instead sucked and kept in the mouth for the taste. However, the most concerning misconception among smokers is the belief that cigars are safer because they do not have a Surgeon General’s health warning as cigarettes do.

Research has proven all of these beliefs to be untrue. Cigars do not require health labels because they are not as regulated as cigarettes. Furthermore, they contain some of the same hazardous chemicals such as arsenic and can have the same negative health effects.

Cigars contain high levels of the addictive substance nicotine. Nicotine can enter the body by being inhaled into the lungs and can also be absorbed through the lining in the mouth. Cigars are also known to contain more tar than cigarettes. Tar contains the carcinogen (cancer-causing substance) benzo(a)pyrene. Cigar smokers are at a high risk for developing cancers of the mouth, larynx and esophagus.

Cigar smoke has been linked to other health conditions such as oral, lung and cardiovascular disease. Chronic cigar smokers may be twice as likely to be at risk for COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). They may also face a higher risk of premature death caused by aortic aneurysms and damage to the heart. Cigars can also wreak havoc on dental health by causing tooth loss, bad breath and stained teeth.

The National Cancer Institute has determined that cigars are no safer than cigarettes and there are no safe tobacco products. There is also no safe level of tobacco smoke exposure. For this reason and others previously discussed, the best option for smokers to improve their health and prevent the risk of developing chronic diseases is to stop smoking.

If you or someone you know needs help in quitting smoking please contact Jamaica Hospital’s Freedom From Smoking program at 718 206 8494 or visit www.smokefree.gov for more information.

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.

10 Tips for Dining Out For Those With High Blood Pressure

Posted on May 5, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Dining out is a treat we look forward to because we get to try new foods or indulge in our favorite cuisines. However, it is recommended that if you are diagnosed with high blood pressure to be mindful of the foods you pick from the menu. It is suggested that you stick to a diet that is low in saturated fats, does not contain MSG and has very little sodium or no added salt.

Nutritionists also advise that practicing the following tips when dining out will help in controlling blood pressure levels.

Choose appetizers with fruits or vegetables, instead of salty treats.
Ask for your food to be prepared without added salt or MSG.
Stay away from the saltshaker.
Select foods that are prepared using healthy cooking techniques such as grilling or steaming.
Avoid foods that are pickled, smoked or cured.
Cut away excess and visible fat from meats.
Avoid using butter or foods prepared with butter.
Limit sodium intake from condiments by using them sparingly or by asking that they be served on the side.
Steer clear of items that include cheese.
Limit the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

If you have high blood pressure you can still enjoy restaurant meals and make healthy food choices by sticking to the preceding tips. In addition to eating healthy it is also important to remember to incorporate exercise into your daily routine and take medications as prescribed to help control your blood pressure.

Doctors Say You Need to Relax

Posted on April 28, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Relax178982704 (1) For many, dealing with excessive stress has become a way of life. We often hear the words “just relax,” but sometimes we find it difficult to take that advice and de-stress due to every day hassles.

When you are stressed the body releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline- which causes the fight or flight reaction. This can speed up the normal function of several organs, including the heart. The fight or flight reaction is appropriate when we face immediate threats but can be damaging if prolonged; as our bodies are only designed to deal with the effects of stress for short intervals.

Extended periods of stress can take its toll on our health in many ways. Long-term stress is known to negatively affect several systems of the body, including:

The nervous system- High levels of cortisol and adrenaline can impair the nervous system, which regulates heart rates, the excretion of waste, breathing rates and the dilation and constriction of blood vessels.
The immune system- Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, which increases the risk of infections, infectious diseases, skin problems such as eczema and can slow down wound healing rates.
The digestive system- Excessive levels of stress can stimulate the muscles of the intestines and cause diarrhea or constipation. It can also lead to indigestion or nausea and increase the risk of ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome.
The endocrine system- Stress hormones can cause the liver to increase blood sugar levels. This is particularly dangerous for diabetics.

It is important to reduce excessive and prolonged periods of stress, because it can wreak havoc on our health. We can decrease or manage stress by learning to take a moment to relax, exercising and eating healthy.

What You Need to Know About Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Posted on April 7, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

A person stands in front of the mirror and glances at their reflection; they perceive their image to be severely unattractive or obese. They become obsessed with a particular body part and deem it to be an extreme defect that alters their appearance. While this is their perception, in reality no one else sees these physical characteristics.

There is a possibility that this person may be suffering from a chronic body-image disorder known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which is a compulsive obsession with an imagined or exaggerated physical trait that often no one else can see.

BDD is known to occur in both men and women and usually begins during teenage years or early adulthood. Factors that may contribute to the development of BDD are

Low self-esteem
Traumatic events
Genetics
The influence of others who are critical of the person’s physical appearance

Characteristics of the disorder may include an obsession with skin imperfections such as scars or wrinkles, facial features (it is very common for those afflicted with BDD to be obsessed with size of the nose), body weight and hair. There are several behaviors that are identifiable with BDD, they are:

Constantly looking in the mirror and trying to cover up the perceived defect
Asking for reassurance that the defect is not obvious
Isolation from people due to the belief that imperfections will be noticed
Becoming increasingly self-conscious
Avoiding mirrors
Excessive grooming in an effort to cover up a flaw
Frequently consulting plastic surgeons or undergoing cosmetic procedures
Developing other psychological disorders such as eating and anxiety disorders

If someone you know is exhibiting these behaviors, it is recommended that they seek help immediately as this disorder can lead to self-harm. Once diagnosed with BDD, treatment will usually include a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, group or family therapy and medication. For more information about body dysmorphic disorders or treatment please contact Jamaica Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry at 718 206 5575.

I Am So Stressed! Where Are My Cigarette’s?

Posted on March 27, 2015 by Joann Ariola

Is smoking a cigarette when you are stressed, depressed or irritable a proven way to relieve those emotions or improve your mood?

The answer is, no. The relief you get from smoking comes from the act of taking the “time out” necessary to smoke a cigarette. It does not have to do with the chemical actions of nicotine in your brain.

If you finish your cigarette and return to your stressful situation, the feeling of tension will come back. Therefore, the act of smoking is only a temporary solution for handling stress.

A proven way to control stress, tension or depression in your life is to identify what brings on those emotions and learning how to change the way you react to the events and situations in your life.

If you have been using smoking as a way to reduce stress, a great time to
“kick the habit” is to participate in The Great American Smoke out, Wednesday, November 18th, 2015.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center can help. Enroll, today, for our smoking cessation classes. For more information or to register, call: 718-206-8494.

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.

Asthma v. COPD

Posted on March 17, 2015 by Joann Ariola

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a general term that describes progressive respiratory diseases including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is characterized by decreased airflow over time and increased inflammation of the lungs.

Asthma, on the other hand, is considered a separate respiratory disease, but is occasionally mistaken for COPD because of its similar symptoms.

These symptoms include:

Chronic coughing
Wheezing
Shortness of breath

The majority of COPD sufferers also have asthma, which is considered a risk factor for developing the disease. As you age, the likelihood of this duel-diagnosis increases.

COPD and asthma respond well to treatments such as smoking cessation and airway-opening medications like bronchodilators. At times, inhaled steroids are also needed. However, lung function is only fully reversible in asthma patients. A diagnosis of asthma, along with COPD, often means a significant decline in lung function as the COPD progresses. This progression is true even in patients with mild forms of the disease.

By nature of the similarity of the symptoms of COPD and asthma, many patients can go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Early detection of COPD, especially in current or past smokers, is critical to preserving lung function “Undiagnosed or poorly controlled asthma and COPD can lead to a decreased quality of life by limiting a person’s ability to perform everyday activities. Teaching patients to take their medicine as prescribed, to never run out of their medications, and to keep their doctors’ appointments is essential to improving their outcomes.” Dr. Kamica Lewis.

If you think you may have symptoms of asthma or COPD, please contact Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at 718-206-7001 to make an appointment with a doctor for an evaluation.

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.

Quieting That Cough, Naturally

Posted on February 23, 2015 by Joann Ariola

Coughing is a common health problem. When there is a blockage or irritant in your throat, your brain thinks a foreign element is present and tells your body to cough to remove that element.

Some reasons you may cough are itchy throat and congestion. Instead of using over-the-counter cough suppressants, you may want to try a natural cough treatment using readily available ingredients in your kitchen.

Ginger tea is one of the most popular cures for a cough and is a proven home remedy.

Follow the recipe below for a simple and effective way to quiet a cough.

GINGER TEA

· Cut fresh ginger into small slices and crush them slightly. Place them in a cup of water and bring to a boil. You can also use some lemon juice and honey to taste.

It is suggested to drink this herbal solution three to four times a day for relief from a sore throat, coughing and even chest congestion.

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