Head Lice Prevention Month

Posted on September 12, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Since 1985, healthcare organizations have informed communities about head lice symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention for National Pediculosis Prevention Month, also known as Head Lice Prevention Month.

Although reliable data isn’t available on this condition, pediculosis (head lice infestation) is fairly common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately six to 12 million infestations affect children between the ages of three to 11 each year. Adults can also develop infestations through contact with both children and other adults.

Head lice typically spread through contact with the hair of an infested person, though it can also occur when people share clothes or lay on furniture after an infested person has recently used them. Lice typically remain on a person’s scalp; however, in rare instances, they may move to the eyelashes or eyebrows.

Signs of pediculosis include the feeling of something moving through the hair, itching, the development of sores on the scalp, and difficulty sleeping due to the increased activity of head lice in the dark. A diagnosis is generally made when live head lice are found on the scalp.

You can prevent the spread of head lice by teaching your child to avoid sharing clothes or supplies, using furniture recently used by an infested person, or coming into head-to-head contact with friends or classmates. It’s also helpful to encourage them to regularly comb their hair. You can keep yourself free of head lice by following these recommendations, as well.

If an infestation has already developed, lice removal kits are a non-chemical solution for combing lice out of an infested person’s hair. Several over-the-counter and prescription lice removal shampoos, creams, lotions, and drugs are also available.

If you or your child need a diagnosis or treatment for head lice, schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at (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.

September is Cholesterol Education Month

Posted on September 8, 2022 by Andrew Rubin

September is designated as National Cholesterol Education Month. The importance of this designation is to bring awareness of the health risks associated with high cholesterol.

One of the major conditions associated with high cholesterol is heart disease, a leading cause of death in the United States. People who have high levels of cholesterol are twice as likely to have heart disease than those who have levels in the normal range.

The liver produces two types of cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). When the level of LDL cholesterol, also known as the “bad” cholesterol is too high we can develop health problems such as peripheral vascular disease, high blood pressure, stroke, kidney failure, and heart attack. We can reduce our risk of complications by making lifestyle changes.

Ways to reduce “bad” cholesterol LDL and raise HDL “good” cholesterol include:

Quit smoking
Exercise regularly
Avoid saturated fats and trans fats such as fried food, pizza, margarine and pastries
Eat foods with unsaturated fats including olive oil, olives, nuts such as almonds, cashews, macadamia, pecans and canola oil
Eat foods with polyunsaturated fat containing Omega-3 fatty acids including salmon, mackerel, herring and tuna
Eat high fiber foods such as fruits, beans, oat cereal
Limit alcohol consumption
Use Psyllium as a dietary supplement

There are no symptoms associated with high cholesterol, so the only way to assess it is through a blood test. It is recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to have cholesterol level in the blood checked every five years after the age of 20 and it should be a part of your annual physical as you get older. If you would like to schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.

Sickle Cell Awareness Month

Posted on September 7, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Over 100,000 Americans suffer from sickle cell disease. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, Black and Hispanic-American babies are most often born with the disease. Additionally, one in every 13 Black babies is born with sickle cell trait (HbAS), which generally doesn’t cause symptoms of sickle cell disease, but may lead to health issues in response to physical stresses such as dehydration or strenuous physical exercise.

A person with sickle cell disease has abnormal hemoglobin, causing their red blood cells to become hard and sticky. These cells form into a shape resembling a sickle and have a short life cycle, leading to a constant shortage of red blood cells and symptoms that include pain, infections, strokes, and acute chest syndrome.

There are also several different forms of sickle cell disease. Common types include:

Sickle cell anemia (HbSS), which causes standard sickle cell disease symptoms as well as potential issues such as delayed puberty and vision problems
HbSC, a typically mild form of sickle cell disease
HbS beta thalassemia, in which a child inherits the genes for both sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia, another cause of abnormal hemoglobin

Rare forms of sickle cell disease include:

HbSD, in which a child inherits the sickle cell “S” gene and a “D” gene
HbSE, in which a child inherits the “S” and “E” genes
HbSO, in which a child inherits the “S” and “O” genes

Sickle cell disease can be diagnosed through a blood test shortly after a baby’s birth or through a sample of the amniotic fluid surrounding a baby in the womb. A blood test can also be used to diagnose an adult with sickle cell disease.

People with sickle cell disease can manage their symptoms by staying hydrated, regulating their body temperature, and avoiding spaces with low oxygen levels. Practicing good hand hygiene can also help.

If you need help managing symptoms of sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait, schedule an appointment with a hematologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Internal Medicine at (718) 206-7001.

Meet Our Doctors: Dr. Elizabeth Fontana

Posted on September 1, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center is proud to introduce the newest member of our medical team: Dr. Elizabeth Fontana, a neurosurgery specialist, and Trauma Liaison. Neurosurgery includes the surgical treatment of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, or any other parts of the nervous system.

“Neurosurgery is a job that is interesting, different, rewarding, and challenging every single day,” said Dr. Fontana. “I am always learning from colleagues and patients. It is a privilege to be able to practice medicine in this field.” She also has a particular interest in brain tumors and the field of oncology in general.

As Trauma Liaison, Dr. Fontana works with Jamaica Hospital’s Trauma service, the busiest in New York City and one that consists of a team of highly-trained surgeons who provide life-saving treatment to critically-injured patients 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Dr. Fontana grew up in a small town west of Boston, where she attended public school before studying at Harvard. Later, she moved to New York City for medical school, completing both her studies and residency at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center and spending a year in Seattle to complete her fellowship in tumor treatment.

Before joining Jamaica Hospital, Dr. Fontana worked for Northwell Health on Long Island but came to work here because she recognized it as an exciting opportunity to participate in the growth and development of our neurosurgical program.

“The neurosurgery department is relatively new, but has made really great strides in the past few years,” said Dr. Fontana. “The administration has been extremely supportive of this growth effort, and I felt like it was a place where I would really be able to contribute to the development of the neurosurgical program and provide valuable services to this community.”

You can schedule an appointment with a specialist at Jamaica Hospital’s Division of Neurosurgery for diagnosis and treatment by calling (718) 206-7110.

The Monkeypox Vaccine

Posted on August 31, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Monkeypox cases have emerged across most of the United States. Symptoms of the virus include:

Fever
Aches and pains
Chills
Exhaustion
Respiratory symptoms

Most people with monkeypox also experience a rash that’s typically located near the genitals or anus. It may also be present on other parts of the body, including the face, hands, feet, and chest.

Two vaccines are now available that may effectively offer protection against monkeypox. JYNNEOS is the only vaccine approved by the Food and Drug Administration and recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for anyone at risk of contracting the virus. Another vaccine, ACAM2000, may also be used to prevent monkeypox under the Expanded Access Investigational New Drug system, but is not recommended for people with a weakened immune system, an exfoliative skin condition like eczema, or people who are pregnant.

Studies have shown side effects such as myocarditis, pericarditis, brain or spinal cord swelling, and infection in patients who received ACAM2000. These reactions have not been observed in patients who received JYNNEOS.

Your doctor can help you determine which vaccine is right for you, but vaccination in general, combined with practices like safe sex, maintaining distance from infected people and animals, and disinfecting your home when an infected person has been there, can help protect most people against the virus. Children in particular may benefit from vaccination, as their symptoms are likely to be worse than those of infected teens and adults.

You can make an appointment for monkeypox treatment and prevention at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s on-site Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 206-7001.

Anxiety Triggers

Posted on August 29, 2022 by Xavia Malcolm

Anxiety is defined by the National Library of Medicine as, “a feeling of fear, dread, and uneasiness.” Having these feelings occasionally is normal; however, they become a health concern when they are excessive and interfere with the ability to live a normal life.

The exact cause of anxiety is still not fully understood, but it is believed that the following factors play a role:

Genetics
Environmental stress
Brain chemistry
Certain medical conditions

Although the exact cause of anxiety is unknown, there are certain triggers such as life events, lifestyle changes, or daily habits that can lead to or worsen this response. These include:

Financial insecurity
Traumatic experiences
Caffeine consumption
Alcohol consumption
Meeting new people
Stress
Relationship problems
Exposure to violence
Taking certain medications
Substance misuse
Loneliness or isolation

Anxiety triggers are unique to each individual. However, the most important steps anyone affected by anxiety can take is identifying what their triggers are and learning how to cope with them. Here are a few tips for coping with anxiety:

Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption
Exercise
Use stress management or relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing
Maintain good sleep health
Try to minimize negative thoughts and think positively
Journal or write down your thoughts
Speak to someone about how your feeling
Adhere to your treatment plan

Anxiety affects many people, and no one should feel ashamed if they struggle with the disorder or other mental health disorders. If you or someone you know is affected by anxiety, consult a mental health professional to explore possible causes and treatments. Your mental health provider may recommend lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, or medication.

To schedule an appointment with a mental health provider at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575.

Employee Spotlight Shines on Maynard Lantimo

Posted on August 24, 2022 by Andrew Rubin

This month we are proud to shine our Employee Spotlight on Maynard Lantimo, Epic Clinical Education Specialist.

Maynard has been employed at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center for 29 years. He was raised in Brooklyn and then moved to Queens. He currently lives in Valley Stream on Long island.

Maynard went to elementary school at Holy Innocents School in Brooklyn, then began high school at Paul Robeson High School in Brooklyn as a lower freshman. He then transferred to Hillcrest High School in Queens from where he graduated. Maynard later received his Associates degree from Queensborough Community College, and his Bachelor’s degree from Hunter College. He completed his post graduate degree at the Career Institute of Health and Technology for Networking Specialist while also becoming a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer.

In his free time, Maynard like to keep physically fit. He enjoys running, bicycling, and strength training. He has completed seven full marathons and eight half marathons. He is currently only three marathons away from getting the worldwide renowned Six Star Medal of the Abbot World Marathon Majors.

He likes to travel especially to Miami Beach Florida and to Jamaica. He loves music and says that it is a great motivator when he goes out running. He likes to listen to reggae, jazz, R&B, soca, pop music, soft rock, rap and also classical music.

One of the things most important to Maynard is balancing overall physical, mental, and spiritual health. His family, friends, and place of work have given him a wonderful blend of exciting energy that has helped him overcome many challenges.

Maynard likes working at Jamaica Hospital because throughout the years many of his colleagues have become friends and feel like they are part of his family which makes a healthy addition to his positive lifestyle. We look forward to Maynard continuing to work with us for many more years.

Three Essential Back to School Health Tips

Posted on August 24, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Although your child may be exposed to several health risks as the new school year begins, you can help them stay healthy by following these tips:

Getting your child vaccinated: Ensuring that your child receives their recommended immunizations is a simple, effective way to keep them from getting sick. In fact, many schools require students to receive their immunizations in order to attend classes.

Hand-washing and sanitization: Hand-washing and sanitizing alone go a long way toward staying in school; according to the Centers for Disease Control, hand-washing can reduce the risk of respiratory illness by up to 21%. Following and promoting sanitary practices at home may make it easier for them to continue these practices while at school.

Creating a mentally healthy environment: Physical illness isn’t the only health risk your child may face in class. Stress, bullying, or even issues like undiagnosed ADD or ADHD can negatively impact their mental health and their ability to stay focused on their studies. Staying aware of the causes of mental health issues, creating a supportive environment at home, encouraging your child to maintain healthy routines, and helping them learn effective coping mechanisms can make it easier for them to maintain a healthy state of mind throughout the school year.

Visit Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center to get your child the medical help they need to stay engaged with their studies. You can also visit our Psychiatry Department for help addressing mental health challenges that arise before, during, or after the school year.

National Immunization Awareness Month

Posted on August 17, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and we’re here to help you learn more about what makes getting vaccinated so important, which immunizations you should receive, and what they protect you against.

Vaccinations against prevalent, dangerous diseases are an important part of protecting both your own health and the health of those around you. Issues like pneumococcal disease, hepatitis A and B, chickenpox, and more can introduce potentially lifelong complications that may reduce your quality of life or even shorten it. Immunization awareness is a critical part of combating these illnesses.

The benefits of vaccinations hold true at any age, though some immunizations are more important at certain ages than others.

Children whose immune systems are still developing, for instance, need them not only as a protective measure for themselves but often as a requirement for enrolling in school and participating in other activities. Adults over 60 years of age may need vaccines such as pneumococcal vaccines and seasonal flu vaccines to help protect their health.

Though the list of necessary immunizations evolves as new diseases are discovered and researched, the most common vaccinations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control include:

HepA, HepB (Hepatitis A and B)
DTaP (Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough)
Hib (Haemophilus influenza type B)
IPV (Polio)
PCV (Pneumococcal)
RV (Rotavirus)
Varicella (Chickenpox)
MMR (Measles, mumps, and rubella)
Influenza (flu)
Meningococcal conjugate
HPV
Zoster

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 as possible.

Psoriasis Action Month

Posted on August 15, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease, meaning that your body’s immune system is attacking its own normal tissue.

Psoriasis particularly affects your skin, speeding up the growth cycle of cells. This most commonly presents in the form of a rash, or itchy, scaly patches on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp, among other parts of your body.

The rashes created by psoriasis may flare up in cycles of weeks or months. In people who are genetically pre-disposed to developing the disease, it may be triggered by infections, cuts, burns, or medications.

Psoriasis may also lead to psoriatic arthritis and psoriatic disease. Both of these may be treated with the use of prescription medications or using creams and ointments.

Treatments for psoriasis may include topical therapy, light therapy, and oral or injected medications.

If you’re suffering from symptoms associated with psoriasis or psoriatic disease, a dermatologist can provide an accurate diagnosis and create a treatment plan. If your symptoms potentially indicate psoriatic arthritis, a consultation with a rheumatologist may be recommended.

There is no cure for psoriasis, so the treatment plan you follow will focus on managing your symptoms and providing as much relief as possible.

The most effective way to take action against your psoriasis is to visit a medical professional and begin treatment as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital’s Division of Dermatology by calling (718) 206-6742.