Whooping Cough

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Whooping cough or pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection that causes a distinct “whooping” cough.

Whooping cough primarily affects children too young to have completed the full course of vaccinations, and teenagers and adults whose immunity has faded.

Once you become infected with whooping cough, it takes seven to 10 days for signs and symptoms to appear, but it could take longer. The symptoms are usually mild at first and resemble the symptoms of a common cold, which include:

  • Runny nose
  • Nasal congestion
  • Red, watery eyes
  • Fever
  • Cough

After a week or two, the signs and symptoms of whooping cough worsen. Thick mucus accumulates inside your airways, causing uncontrollable coughing. Severe and prolonged coughing attacks may also cause:

  • Vomiting
  • Extreme fatigue
  • A high-pitched “whoop” sound during the next breath of air

Whooping cough is caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. When the bacteria enter your respiratory system, they attach to the tiny, hair-like extensions that line your respiratory tract called cilia. The bacteria then release toxins damaging the cilia, causing the airways to swell, increasing mucus secretions, and creating severe coughing.

It is difficult to diagnose whooping cough early because the signs and symptoms resemble those of other common respiratory illnesses, like a cold, flu, or bronchitis. Doctors can sometimes diagnose whooping cough by asking about symptoms and listening to the cough. Medical tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Tests can include:

  • A nose and throat culture and test
  • Blood tests
  • A chest X-ray

The best way to prevent whooping cough is with the pertussis vaccine, which doctors often give in combination with vaccines against two other serious diseases, diphtheria and tetanus.

Treatment for whooping cough is dependent on age and vaccination history. Infants are typically hospitalized for treatment because whooping cough is more dangerous for that age group.

Treatment for older children and adults can be managed at home. Antibiotics can be prescribed to kill the bacteria causing whooping cough.

To speak with a doctor about appropriate vaccinations, please schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital by calling (718) 206-6000 or your primary care physician as soon

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.

National Bullying Prevention Month

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October is National Bullying Prevention Month. It is a time to acknowledge that bullying has devastating effects on children and families.

There are many forms of bullying. It can be verbal, physical, through social exclusion, or digital sources like email, texts, or social media. Unlike mutual teasing or fighting, bullying occurs when one person or group of people is perceived as being more powerful than another and takes advantage of that power through repeated physical assaults, threats of harm, intimidation, or by purposely excluding a person from a valued social group.

Being bullied can severely affect a person’s self-image, social interactions, and school performance, leading to mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. It can lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviors as well.

There are many steps you can take to prevent bullying, including:

  • Addressing bullying at school- educators and teachers can create a safe and supportive learning environment and a classroom culture of positivity, inclusivity, and respect.
  • Talking about bullying at home- parents and caregivers can talk with their children about their school and digital life, and the many roles children can play in bullying.
  • Supporting your community- mentors can model kindness, inclusivity, and respect.
  • Raising awareness- share information about bullying prevention, its impact, and resources for support on social media to educate your community.
  • Support anti-bullying organizations- contribute to or volunteer with organizations dedicated to bullying prevention and support for victims.
  • Organize anti-bullying events- plan or participate in events, workshops, and seminars in your community that focus on bullying prevention and promote empathy.
  • Engage in school programs- encourage schools to implement anti-bullying programs and provide resources for students, teachers, and parents.
  • Be an upstander- teach children and teenagers the importance of standing up for others and reporting bullying incidents when they occur.

Participating in bullying prevention allows you to join the fight against bullying and create a more inclusive and empathetic society.

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.

Foods Asthma Sufferers May Want To Avoid

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Although food is not a common trigger for asthma, some people with the disease may develop symptoms or adverse reactions as a result of eating certain foods or additives.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, asthma-triggering foods can include those that contain sulfites an additive found in:

• Pickled foods
• Packaged potatoes
• Dried fruits and vegetables
• Wine and beer
• Shrimp
• Bottled lemon or lime juices
• Some condiments

Foods that contain salicylates, a naturally occurring chemical compound, have also been known to trigger symptoms in some people with asthma. Salicylates can be found in:

• Teas and coffees
• Certain herbs and spices

Additionally, foods that can cause gas or bloating such as beans, fried foods, carbonated drinks, onions, or garlic may make breathing more difficult for people with asthma.

Lastly, if you are allergic to certain foods, it is best to avoid them. An allergic reaction to these foods can also trigger an asthma attack.

Asthma sufferers should be careful about the foods they eat. Food allergies or reactions vary depending on the individual; therefore, speaking with a doctor about foods to eliminate or add to a diet is recommended.

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.

RSV

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Respiratory syncytial virus or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. A seasonal virus, RSV spreads in the fall and winter along with other respiratory viruses, usually peaking in December and January.

Signs and symptoms of RSV most commonly appear about four to six days after exposure to the virus. In adults and older children, RSV usually causes mild cold-like signs and symptoms, including:

  • Congested or runny nose
  • Dry cough
  • Low-grade fever
  • Sore throat
  • Sneezing
  • Headache
  • Lack of energy
  • Decreased appetite

It is difficult to distinguish RSV symptoms from the common cold or other respiratory viruses like the flu or COVID-19.

Severe cases of RSV affect babies 12 months and younger, older adults, people with heart and lung disease, or anyone who is immunocompromised. Severe infection can spread to the lower respiratory tract causing pneumonia or bronchiolitis. Signs and symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Severe cough
  • Wheezing
  • Rapid or difficulty breathing
  • Cyanosis or bluish color of skin due to the lack of oxygen

Infants are affected most severely by RSV. Signs and symptoms of severe infection in infants include:

  • Short, shallow, and rapid breathing
  • Struggling to breathe
  • Cough
  • Decreased appetite
  • Unusual tiredness
  • Irritability

RSV is very contagious. You can easily spread the virus while symptomatic, which is usually a period of three to eight days. RSV can enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth. It is spread through respiratory droplets when you cough or sneeze and through direct contact, such as shaking hands.

RSV can cause many complications, including:

  • Hospitalization
  • Middle ear infection
  • Asthma
  • Repeated infections

RSV can infect anyone. However, there are ways to prevent those who are at risk of getting severe infections, including:

  • Protection for babies and high-risk children
    • Antibody product called nirsevimab
    • Vaccines for pregnant people
  • Vaccine for older adults
  • Lifestyle habits that can prevent the spread of infection
    • Washing your hands often
    • Avoiding exposure
    • Keeping surfaces and common areas clean
    • Not sharing drinking glasses with others
    • Not smoking
    • Washing toys regularly

A healthcare provider can diagnose RSV based on the findings of a physical exam and the time of year the symptoms occur. They will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope to check for wheezing or other abnormal sounds. Lab and imaging tests aren’t usually needed but they can help diagnose RSV complications and rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms. These tests can include:

  • Blood tests to check white cell counts or to look for viruses, bacteria, and other germs
  • Chest X-rays to check for lung inflammation
  • Swab secretions from inside the mouth or nose to check for signs of the virus
  • Pulse oximetry to detect lower-than-normal levels of oxygen in the blood

Treatment for RSV usually involves self-care and supportive care measures to make your child more comfortable. However, hospital care may be needed if severe symptoms occur.

Some self-care and supportive care treatment measures include:

  • Over-the-counter medication
  • Nasal saline drops
  • Using a humidifier
  • Drinking fluids
  • Staying away from cigarette smoke

Some hospital care treatments include:

  • Intravenous fluids
  • Humidified oxygen
  • A breathing machine

If you or someone you know has developed RSV symptoms that require medical attention, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (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.

Wellness Wednesday: Meditation

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Meditation is the habitual process of training your mind to focus and redirect your thoughts. It can wipe away the day’s stress and bring inner peace. It can also be used as a practice to develop other beneficial habits and feelings, such as a positive mood and outlook, self-discipline, healthy sleep patterns, and even increased pain tolerance.

There are many types of mediation, including:

  • Guided meditation
  • Mantra meditation
  • Mindfulness meditation
  • Qigong
  • Tai chi
  • Yoga

Each type of meditation includes certain features to help you meditate. The most common features include:

  • Focused attention- focusing your attention is one of the most important elements of meditation. It helps free your mind from the many things that cause stress and worry.
  • Relaxed breathing- this meditation technique involves deep, even-paced breathing using the diaphragm to expand your lungs. The purpose is to slow your breathing, take in more oxygen, and reduce the use of shoulder, neck, and upper chest muscles while breathing so that you breathe better.
  • A quiet setting- if you’re a beginner, meditation may be easier to do if you’re in a quiet spot to have fewer distractions. As you get more skilled at meditation, you may be able to do it anywhere, including high-stress places.
  • A comfortable position- you can practice meditation whether sitting, lying down, walking, or in other positions or activities. Ensure you are comfortable to get the most out of your meditation. Aim to keep a good posture during meditation.
  • An open attitude- let thoughts pass through your mind without judging them.

Here are some emotional and physical benefits of meditation:

  • It helps reduce stress
  • It helps to control anxiety
  • It supports emotional health
  • It enhances self-awareness
  • It increases your attention span
  • It may reduce age-related memory loss
  • It can help generate kindness
  • It may help with addiction
  • It helps to improve sleep
  • It helps control pain
  • It can help decrease blood pressure
  • It is accessible anywhere
  • It enables you to be more patient

Meditation is something everyone can do to improve their mental and emotional health without special equipment or costly memberships. Trying a style of meditation suited to your goals is a great way to improve your quality of life, even if you only have a few minutes a day.

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

 

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.

National Afib Awareness Month

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September is National Afib Awareness Month. Afib stands for atrial fibrillation, a type of arrhythmia or abnormal heartbeat. During Afib, the heart’s upper chambers, or the atria, beat chaotically and irregularly. They beat out of sync with the lower heart chambers, the ventricles.

Afib can lead to blood clots in the heart. It also increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications.

It usually isn’t life-threatening, but it is a serious medical condition that needs proper treatment to prevent serious health issues.

There are many symptoms of Afib, they can include:

  • Feelings of a fast, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat
  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Lightheadedness
  • Reduced ability to exercise
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness

People can experience three types of Afib, including:

  • Paroxysmal Afib
  • Persistent Afib
  • Long-standing persistent Afib

The most common cause of Afib is problems with the heart’s structure. Other health problems and heart diseases that can cause Afib include:

  • A congenital heart defect
  • Sick sinus syndrome
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Heart attack
  • High blood pressure
  • Lung diseases, including pneumonia
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Thyroid diseases
  • Infections from viruses

Many factors can increase your risk of Afib, including:

  • Age
  • Caffeine, nicotine, or illegal drug use
  • Drinking too much alcohol
  • Changes in the level of body minerals
  • Family history
  • Long-term health conditions
  • Obesity
  • Some medicines and supplements

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and prevent Afib. Some basic heart-healthy tips include:

  • Controlling high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes
  • Not smoking or using tobacco
  • Eating a diet that is low in salt and saturated fat
  • Exercising at least 30 minutes a day at least five days a week
  • Getting at least seven to nine hours of sleep a day
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Reducing and managing stress

Afib is diagnosed when a healthcare provider examines you and asks questions about your medical history and symptoms. Tests may be done to look for conditions causing irregular heartbeats such as heart disease or thyroid disease, including:

  • Blood tests
  • ECG or EKG
  • Holter monitor
  • Event recorder
  • Implantable loop recorder
  • Exercise stress tests
  • Chest X-ray

The goals of Afib treatment are to reset and control the heartbeat and prevent blood clots. Treatment for Afib depends on how long you’ve had it, your symptoms, and the cause of the irregular heartbeat. Afib treatment can include:

  • Medications
  • Cardioversion therapy
  • Surgery or catheter procedures

If you are experiencing any symptoms of Afib, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Cardiology Department by calling (718) 206-7100. If you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 right away.

 

 

 

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.

The Importance of Staying Up To Date With COVID Vaccines

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals aged six months and older should receive the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine.

COVID-19 vaccines effectively protect you from severe illness; however, their efficiency decreases over time. This is why it is important to stay up to date with vaccinations.

Currently, three vaccines are available for use in the United States. They include the:

  • 2024–2025 Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine; recommended for those six months and older
  • 2024–2025 Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine; recommended for those six months and older
  • 2024–2025 Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine; recommended for those 12 years and older

Everyone eligible for a vaccine should receive one, but it is especially important for the following people to get vaccinated:

  • Those who never received the COVID vaccine
  • Those at risk for severe COVID-19
  • Those 65 years and older
  • Those living in long-term care facilities
  • Those who are trying to get pregnant or might want to become pregnant in the future, are pregnant or are breastfeeding
  • Those who want to lower their risk of developing Long COVID

The CDC states that COVID vaccines are generally safe. They are effective in helping our bodies build immunity against the virus. Sometimes, in the process of building immunity, we may experience side effects or symptoms such as fever or body aches, which are normal signs the body is building immunity.

Although the COVID vaccines are safe, it is highly advised that people who have a severe allergic reaction after vaccination or are allergic to ingredients in the vaccine should not get vaccinated.

For more information on the 2024-2025 COVID vaccine, please visit the CDC website https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html.  To schedule an appointment to speak with a doctor or receive vaccination, please call Flushing Hospital Medical Center at 718-670-5486.

 

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.

Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

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A subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs when a tiny blood vessel breaks underneath the clear surface of your eye called the conjunctiva.

The most common sign/symptom of a subconjunctival hemorrhage is a bright red spot on the white of your eye.

The cause of a subconjunctival hemorrhage isn’t always known. However, some activities and health conditions can briefly raise the blood pressure in your veins causing the blood vessels in your eyes to break. These can include:

  • Straining (during coughing, sneezing, vomiting, or while using the toilet)
  • Injury to your head or eye, including an infection
  • Lifting, pushing, or bending forward
  • Rubbing your eye too hard
  • Wearing contact lenses
  • Taking medications, including blood thinners or certain cancer medications

Some less common subconjunctival hemorrhage causes include:

  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Blood-clotting disorders

A healthcare provider or eye care specialist can diagnose a subconjunctival hemorrhage by looking at your eye. Other tests may be needed if you have recurrent subconjunctival hemorrhages. Your healthcare provider may also:

  • Ask questions about your general health and symptoms
  • Conduct an eye examination
  • Take your blood pressure
  • Obtain a routine blood test to make sure you don’t have a potentially serious bleeding disorder

Treatment for a subconjunctival hemorrhage usually isn’t necessary even though it may look alarming. More often than not, it is a harmless condition that disappears within two weeks or less.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a subconjunctival hemorrhage, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ophthalmology Center by calling (718) 206-5900.

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.

Oral Health

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Your oral health is more important than you might realize. The health of your mouth, teeth, and gums can affect your overall health.

Like other areas of the body, the mouth is full of germs. Those germs are mostly harmless, but the mouth is the entryway to the digestive tract. It is also the entryway to the respiratory tract. Because of this, germs in the mouth can lead to disease throughout the body.

Oral germs and inflammation are linked to a severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. Studies suggest that germs and inflammation that form in the mouth might play a role in some diseases, including:

  • Endocarditis
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Pregnancy and birth complications
  • Pneumonia

Most of the body’s defenses and good oral care help keep germs under control. Good oral care includes daily brushing and flossing. Without good oral hygiene, germs can reach levels that may lead to infections like tooth decay and gum disease.

While practicing good oral hygiene can lower the risk of health problems, other factors can affect oral health. Certain medicines such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, water pills, and antidepressants can lower the flow of saliva. Saliva washes away food and keeps the acids germs make in the mouth in balance helping to keep them from spreading and causing disease.

Some health conditions can also affect oral health, they include:

  • Diabetes
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Cancer
  • Alzheimer’s disease

You can protect your oral health and take care of your mouth every day by:

  • Brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a brush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste. Brush your tongue too.
  • Flossing between your teeth daily.
  • Eating a healthy diet and limiting sugary foods and drinks.
  • Replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. Sooner if the bristles are worn out.
  • Seeing a dentist at least once a year for checkups and cleanings.

Taking care of your oral health protects your overall health.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with a dentist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, you may call 718-206-6980

 

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.

MPox

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Mpox previously known as monkeypox, is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus. The virus usually affects rats, mice, or monkeys. But it can occur in people as well.

Mpox usually occurs in Central and West Africa. Cases outside of Africa are due to international travel, imported animals, and close contact with an animal or person infected with mpox.

Mpox symptoms may start three to 17 days after exposure. Symptoms last two to four weeks and may include:

  • Fever
  • Skin rash
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches and backaches
  • Chills
  • Fatigue

A skin rash starts about one to four days after a fever. It first appears on the face, hands, or feet and then spreads to other body parts. You can spread mpox while you have symptoms.

There are many ways that mpox can spread, including:

  • Person to person
    • Direct contact with rashes, scabs, or bodily fluids of a person with mpox
    • Extended close contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person, including sexual contact
    • Clothes, sheets, blankets, or other materials that have been in contact with rashes or bodily fluids of an infected person
    • An infected pregnant person can spread the mpox virus to a fetus
  • Animal to person
    • Animal bites or scratches
    • Wild game that is cooked for food
    • Products, such as skins or furs made from infected animals
    • Direct contact with bodily fluids or rashes of animals with mpox

There are many steps you can take to prevent infection or the spread of the mpox virus, including:

  • Avoiding close contact with people who have a rash that looks like mpox
  • Avoiding the handling of clothes, sheets, blankets, or other materials that have been in close contact with an infected animal or person
  • Quarantining people who have mpox from healthy people
  • Washing your hands well with soap and water after contact with an infected person or animal. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
  • Avoiding animals that may carry the virus

The treatment for most people with mpox is aimed at relieving symptoms. Care may include managing skin damage from the mpox rash, drinking enough fluids to help keep stool soft, and pain management. There is no specific treatment approved for mpox. Healthcare professionals may treat mpox with antiviral drugs used to treat smallpox. If you have mpox, quarantine at home in a room separate from family and pets until your rash and scabs heal.

You can make an appointment for mpox treatment and prevention at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s on-site Ambulatory Care Center by calling (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.