Common Summer Illnesses

Posted on July 10, 2018 by Xavia Malcolm

Typically when we think of seasonal illnesses, we think of conditions such as allergies, the cold and flu as they relate to winter, spring and fall months. However, it is important for us to remember certain illnesses are more likely to occur during the summer than at other times of the year.

Although the summer provides us with lots of sunshine and opportunities to enjoy recreational activities, warmer temperatures and elements of our environment can increase our risk of exposure to factors that affect our health.

Hot weather provides the perfect climate for bacteria to grow that causes food poisoning. Therefore, we have to be especially careful during summer months to make sure our food is stored and prepared correctly to avoid illness.

A favorite summer past time for many is swimming; however, the bodies of water in which we swim can serve as the perfect breeding ground for bacteria that causes recreational water illnesses (RWI) and can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea. We also have to be mindful of properly draining or drying our ears after swimming, as this can encourage bacteria to grow, potentially leading to an infection known as swimmer’s ear.

Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that peaks during the summer months when we are more exposed to ticks in wooded or grassy areas. Therefore it is important to take the proper precautions to prevent tick bites while we are participating in outdoor activities such as hiking.

Coxsackie is a common summer virus that mostly affects children. The hand, foot and mouth disease is spread from person-to-person by saliva, blister fluid, feces and mucus. Outbreaks peak in the summer; however, you can control the spread of the virus by frequently washing hands and cleaning surfaces that children touch most often.

Summer heat and places of recreation can provide the perfect environment for illness-causing bacteria and viruses to flourish. Remember while soaking up the sunshine or lying by the lake to take the proper steps to reduce your chances of getting sick.

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.

Jamaica Hospital Provides New and Effective Way to Treat Prostate Gland Enlargement

Posted on July 6, 2018 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

Dr. Ricardo Ricciardi is one of the first Urologists in New York City to be recognized for his efforts in providing a new and effective way to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that affects millions of men in the United States.

BPH — also called prostate gland enlargement — is a common condition that many men experience as they get older. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that surrounds the urethra. When the prostate becomes enlarged it can lead to BPH, which can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms, such as frequent or urgent need to urinate and increased frequency of urination at night. In addition to urinary problems, men living with BPH also experience interrupted sleep, loss of productivity, and depression. Over 40 million men in America are affected by BPH and 12 million are currently under the care of a physician for the condition.

Until recently, men living with BPH were offered two treatment options – medication or surgery. Medication is often the first-line of therapy for BPH, but relief can be inadequate and temporary. In addition, many men have reported various side effects including sexual dysfunction, dizziness and headaches. Traditionally, the alternative treatment option has been surgery, but surgical options either require cutting, heating or removing prostate tissue to open the blocked urethra. While surgery has been effective in relieving symptoms, it requires a longer recovery period and can also leave patients with permanent side effects such as urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction and retrograde ejaculation.

Now, Dr. Ricciardi is offering the UroLift system, an FDA cleared, revolutionary treatment that provides rapid and durable relief from urinary symptoms associated with BPH. The UroLift system works by placing small, permanent implants into the prostate to lift and hold the enlarged tissue out of the way, relieving pressure on the urethra and allowing urine to flow. There is no cutting, heating, or removal of prostate tissue. This non-invasive procedure is done in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. Patients experience rapid improvement with minimal side effects and are able to resume their normal routines quickly and no longer require medication.

According to Dr. Ricciardi, “I am privileged to be able to offer my patients the UroLift procedure, which is truly a breakthrough in the treatment of BPH. This procedure provides so many benefits and can increase their overall quality of life without any side effects.”

Dr. Ricciardi has performed over 100 UroLift procedures and his practice has recently been named as a Center of Excellence in this form of treatment. This designation recognizes that Dr. Ricciardi has achieved the highest level of training with the UroLift System and has demonstrated a commitment to providing exemplary care to men suffering from symptoms of BPH. Less than 70 urologists in the United States have received a Center of Excellence designation and Dr. Ricciardi is the only physician in New York City to receive this honor.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Ricciardi, please call (718) 206-7110.

How to Protect You and Your Family from Pinkeye

Posted on July 5, 2018 by Michael Hinck

Pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis, is one of the most common and highly treatable eye conditions. More than three million adults and children in the U.S. contract pinkeye every year.

Pinkeye occurs when the thin, clear tissue under the eyelid, known as the conjunctiva, becomes inflamed. This inflammation makes the blood vessels in the eye more visible, giving them a pink appearance. People who develop pinkeye typically experience pain, or feel a burning or itchy sensation. Their eyes may also tear and form a discharge that crusts while sleeping. Other symptoms may include swelling, tenderness or sensitivity to light.

There are several causes for pinkeye, but it is most commonly either viral, which is the most contagious form, or due to a bacterial infection. Other factors that can lead to pinkeye include exposure to irritants such as shampoo, cosmetics, dirt, or pool chlorine, an allergic reaction to pollen, dust, or smoke, or a reaction to eye drops or contact lenses. Usually a doctor can diagnose pinkeye through a routine examination.

Treating pinkeye depends on the cause of the condition. In most cases it is treated by administering artificial tears, which can be purchased over-the-counter, to treat the dryness and cold compresses to treat inflammation. If pinkeye has developed due to a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. Symptoms of pinkeye typically last anywhere from one to two weeks.

To avoid contracting pinkeye, take the following precautions:

Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
Avoid sharing towels, blankets, and pillowcases.
Do not share eye makeup, face makeup, makeup brushes, contact lenses or containers, or eyeglasses.

In rare cases pinkeye can lead to complications. Please see a doctor if you experience moderate to severe pain your eyes, if you have problems with your vision, or if symptoms persist or worsen over time.

To make an appointment at Jamaica Hospital, please call 718-206-7001.

Heel Spur

Posted on July 5, 2018 by Andrew Rubin

A heel spur is the term used when a bony growth appears on the underside of the calcaneous ( heel bone). It may not be painful when it is first being formed but as time progresses it can become painful.
Heel spurs typically form when there is long term, excessive pulling on the part of the heel where the plantar fascia (a band of fibrous connective tissue that runs from the heel to the toes) attaches to the bone. When the plantar fascia loses its elasticity due to age or injury, it exerts tension on the heel. Over time this will cause a heel spur to develop.
Risk factors and other causes of heel spurs include:
• Poorly fitting shoes
• Weight gain
• Exercising on hard surfaces
• Natural aging
• Shoes with little or no arch support
• Long periods of time spent standing
• Diabetes
The symptoms of a heel spur are described as sharp pains in the bottom of the heel when putting your feet on the ground, especially after prolonged periods of rest. This pain usually diminishes when walking for a while, but doesn’t go away completely. It will return again when walking is resumed.
A heel spur is diagnosed definitively by performing a physical exam and an x-ray. Treatment options include stretching exercises, cold compresses to the area, using custom molded orthotics, physical therapy, localized injections of anti-inflammatory and pain medication, and taping the foot to give the muscles and tendons a rest. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.
If you would like to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center please call 718-206-7001.

Signs of an Iron Deficiency

Posted on July 3, 2018 by Xavia Malcolm

Iron is essential to our health. This mineral is an important component of hemoglobin which is the substance in our red blood cells that carries oxygen from our lungs and transports it to every cell in our bodies.

Iron deficiency anemia is the term used to describe having insufficient amounts of iron in our bodies. If we don’t have enough iron, we are incapable of making adequate amounts of healthy, oxygen-carrying red blood cells. Iron is also needed to promote the health of our skin, hair and nails. A deficiency can result in skin problems as well as brittle nails and hair loss.

Symptoms of a deficiency tend to appear and intensify with severity. People with low to moderate anemia may not experience symptoms but as the body becomes more deficient they may experience:

Extreme fatigue
Weakness
Cold hands and feet
A sore tongue
Frequent infections
Pale skin
Pica( Craving non-nutritive substances such as dirt and chalk)
Shortness of breath
Rapid heartbeat

If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is advised that you see a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will order tests to determine if you are iron deficient and investigate underlying causes. If there is an underlying cause for your deficiency such as an iron-absorption problem, he or she will treat it accordingly. Your doctor may also recommend taking supplements or adding foods that are rich in iron such as spinach to your diet.

Jamaica Hospital Receives Patient Safety Award and Ranks in Top 10% in Nation for Patient Safety

Posted on June 27, 2018 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

If you are sick and need to go to the hospital, it is important to know that if admitted, your hospital is dedicated to safety, and has a proven track record of preventing further illness and injury to its patients.

Healthgrades, a trusted provider of information to millions of health care consumers across the United States, recently recognized the best-performing hospitals in the country and Jamaica Hospital Medical Center received the Patient Safety Excellence Award, an accolade that recognizes hospitals that lead in the prevention of patient safety events.

This prestigious honor highlights the hospital’s performance in safeguarding patients from serious, potentially preventable complications during their hospital stay. Jamaica Hospital, part of the MediSys Health Network ranked in the top 10% in the nation for patient safety.

To determine which hospitals receive the Patient Safety Excellence Award, Healthgrades reviews the results of 14 key patient safety indicators submitted by hospitals to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Some of the safety measures surveyed include pressure ulcers, catheter-related bloodstream infections, and postoperative sepsis rates.

Jamaica is one of two hospitals in Queens and one of only four in New York City to receive this honor. The hospital attributes their vastly improved safety rates to robust quality improvement policies and programs that were initiated over a decade ago and that are still being followed and improved upon every day.

According to MediSys Health Network President, Bruce J. Flanz, “Patient Safety is one of the top priorities at Jamaica Hospital. We are proud to be in a position to provide our patients with a safe and trusted environment to receive high-quality care. I would like to thank the many members of our staff who are committed to this effort.”

Q&A: A lot of patients ask, what is a sexually transmitted infection? How do I protect myself?

Posted on June 26, 2018 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

A sexually transmitted infection is an infection that is passed from one person to another when they have vaginal, oral or anal sex with someone who is infected. Some infections can also be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact. They are caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites. The most common sexually transmitted infections are Chlamydia and HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). According to the CDC, there is an increase in cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis in the United States. STIs are preventable. The first step in protecting your health is knowing if you are at risk for an STI and getting tested.

A lot of patients ask “Should I be tested for a sexually transmitted infection?” The answer is that it depends on your sexual history and your risk factors for having an STI. You are at risk of having a sexually transmitted infection if:

You are between 15- 24 years old
Have more than one sexual partner
Have oral, vaginal, or anal sex without using a condom
You or your partner has had an STI in the past
You or your partner inject drugs
You or your partner exchange sex for money or drugs
You suspect that your partner may be having sex with other people

If any of the above applies to you, get tested right away. You should also get tested if you notice abnormal bleeding especially after having sex, an increase in the amount of discharge, a change in the color or smell of your discharge or pelvic pain.

Be open and honest with your doctor or healthcare provider. By giving us as much information as you can, we can suggest the proper tests and treatments. Most STIs are curable or manageable.

It important to get treatment because having an STI can increase your chances of giving or getting HIV, can cause pelvic infections that lead to pelvic and abdominal pain, and can cause irreversible scarring that makes it difficult to get pregnant. Sexually transmitted infections can also be transmitted to your baby while you are still pregnant. The only way to know if you have an STI is to get tested.

“What can I do to protect myself?”

Abstinence or not having sex is the only way to not get an STI. If you decide to have sex with a new partner, it is important that you both get tested before anything happens- including oral sex. Condoms used from start to finish help decrease the chance of getting some STIs. If you or your partner are having sex with other people, it is recommended you use a condom every single time for oral, vaginal and anal sex. It is only safe to stop using condoms if you and your partner have both been tested and are STI-free AND if you are only having sex with each other. Deciding to have sex with someone comes with responsibilities- Protect yourself! Be honest with your partner. You should be comfortable enough to talk about ways to prevent getting an STI or becoming pregnant. Talk to your doctor about vaccinations against HPV and Hepatitis B. For further information, call us at 718- 291- 3276 to schedule an appointment or visit The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for information on their website: https://www.cdc.gov/std/default.htm

Today is National HIV Testing Day

Posted on June 25, 2018 by Joann Ariola

June 27th is National HIV Testing Day. There are 1.1 million people living with HIV in the United States, and one in seven are unaware they have the virus.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, along with other health organizations is working together to raise awareness about the importance of getting tested and early HIV diagnosis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends “that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care.”

We are encouraging people to know their status. There are now more ways than ever to get tested.

Jamaica Hospital’s clinics offer HIV testing to the community. For a list of our clinics and contact information, please visit

If a patient tests positive we also provide HIV counseling and treatment. We offer integrated clinical care, social and educational services in a comfortable and caring environment.

To receive more information about National HIV Testing Day and to learn more about the virus, please visit,

Healthy eating for people with diabetes

Posted on June 22, 2018 by Wesley Cheng DO

For people with diabetes, maintaining a healthy diet is crucial. Although eating well-balanced meals is strongly encouraged, it is important to pay close attention to the carbohydrate portion of foods consumed as they become glucose when digested.

Glucose is a sugar needed to help our cells and organs function properly. In healthy individuals, the level of glucose within the blood is controlled so that it does not become too high or too low. However, in people with diabetes, the body is unable to keep the glucose levels within the normal range. Frequent high levels of glucose within the blood is responsible for the complications that go along with diabetes including an increased risk for heart attacks, strokes, nerve damage, kidney damage, and many other problems.

To avoid the development of these complications and to help maintain normal glucose levels, people with diabetes should include foods that have low glycemic levels such as whole wheat bread, barley, carrots or lentils in their diets. Food such as white rice, white bread, pretzels or potatoes rank highly on the glycemic index and should be kept to a minimum or eliminated.

The glycemic index is a scale from 0-100 that gives us an idea of blood sugar response from a particular food. In general, foods that rank 55 or less are considered to have low glycemic levels and foods that rank 70 or more are high. Anything in between these numbers is moderate.

While having diabetes doesn’t mean you have to follow a specific diet, it does mean you should remain mindful of what you eat. Here are some recommended tips you can follow to help you along the way:

– Try to avoid or cut down on sweet drinks. Sugary drinks such as juice, soda, and energy drinks are very high in sugar and easily absorbed by the body so they will cause your blood sugar to go high quickly.

– Protein and fat in foods can lower the glycemic index (making it better for your blood sugar), but be careful you’re not eating too much because they are also rich in calories and can cause weight gain.

-Foods with polyunsaturated or monounsaturated fats such as lean meat, avocados, fish, and whole grain wheat are much better for you than food that contains saturated or transfats such as doughnuts, fried foods, and salami.

To schedule an appointment to speak with a doctor about managing your diabetes, please call the Jamaica Hospital Department of Family Medicine at 718-206-6942.

Wesley Cheng D.O. Family Medicine

Jamaica Hospital’s First Farmers’ Market

Posted on June 21, 2018 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

As part of Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s (JHMC) effort to provide out community with healthy nutrition and wellness alternatives, we are proud to announce our first Farmers’ Market! JHMC has partnered with the LI Greenmarket and the Cornell University Cooperative Extension to bring fresh produce and wellness programs for everyone to enjoy!

The Farmers’ Market will be open every Wednesday, 10:00AM – 4:00PM, from June 27, 2018 through November 21, 2018. The Market will be located at 134-20 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11418.

Remember, fresh is best!