September 2023 - Health Beat

What Is Narcan?

Posted on September 28, 2023 by Xavia Malcolm

Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, is a Food and Drug Administration-approved medication that can rapidly reverse an overdose from opioids such as oxycodone, fentanyl, methadone, or heroin. It is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking the effects of these drugs on the brain and restoring normal breathing.

An opioid overdose can occur as a result of illicit drug use, when a person accidentally takes an extra dose of their prescription, or when someone mixes opioids with certain medications or alcohol.

Naloxone should be given immediately to someone who is showing signs of an opioid overdose, and 911 should also be called right away. Signs of an overdose include:

Breathing that is slow, abnormal, or has stopped
Bluish nose or lips
Discolored fingernails
Pin-point sized pupils
Cold or clammy skin
Not waking or responding to touch or voice

Naloxone can be administered by nasal spray, or it can be injected under the skin or into the muscle. It can also be given intravenously. This medication is often used by paramedics, emergency medical technicians, or police officers. Families or loved ones of those who struggle with addiction to opioids are also encouraged to have naloxone nearby.

There are a few things to keep in mind when using naloxone:

Naloxone is only effective if opioids are present in the body; therefore, it cannot be used to reverse an overdose caused by other drugs such as cocaine.
Naloxone is a temporary treatment that works to reverse an overdose in the body for only 30 to 90 minutes. Therefore, a person may still experience the effects of an overdose after the medication has worn off. This is why it’s important to call 911.
Multiple doses of naloxone may be needed for stronger opioids like fentanyl.
A person should be monitored constantly after naloxone is given and until emergency care arrives.

According to the New York City Department of Health, New Yorkers can get naloxone without a prescription at community programs throughout the City. A list of these programs can be found by visiting health.ny.gov/overdose or calling 311. The agency also provides a list of participating pharmacies on its website, nyc.gov/health/map.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Reflections Treatment Program utilizes a holistic model to treat addiction. To learn more about our program or schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5078.

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.

What Are The Health Benefits of Pumpkins?

Posted on September 27, 2023 by Jacob Lobosco

Pumpkins are a favorite fall vegetable for many people and are used as an ingredient in many different foods, including everything from pastries to pancakes, soup, and even curry. While many of the foods and beverages people associate with pumpkins (such as pumpkin spice lattes, for example) don’t actually include pumpkin as an ingredient, the ones that do can offer several significant health benefits.

Eating pumpkin can be helpful when it comes to boosting your immune system, making it easier for your body to fight off disease. This boost comes from the amount of beta carotene contained in pumpkins; beta carotene is partially converted into vitamin A, which is important for strengthening your immunity.

Beta carotene is also helpful when it comes to your eye health, as it improves your retina’s ability to absorb light. Pumpkins also contain several other vitamins and minerals that help protect you against age-related macular degeneration, which causes blurriness and loss in the center of your field of vision. In addition to beta carotene, these vitamins and minerals include vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc.

Beta carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E are also antioxidants, which are beneficial for your skin health, with beta carotene particularly providing a boost to your skin’s protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun; these rays are one of the primary causes of skin cancer in many people.

If you’re considering incorporating more pumpkin into your diet to enjoy these health benefits, one thing to keep in mind is the difference between carving pumpkins (typically used for decorating) and pie pumpkins (typically used for cooking). Carving pumpkins are the larger variety with stringier insides and more water weight. Pie pumpkins are smaller and contain sweeter, richer insides, making them more flavorful and appropriate for usage as an ingredient in your fall dishes.

Employee Spotlight Shines on Donna Provenzano, RN, CEN, Assistant Head Nurse of the Emergency Department

Posted on September 21, 2023 by Andrew Rubin

This month, we are proud to shine our Employee Spotlight on Donna Provenzano, RN, CEN, and Assistant Head Nurse of the Emergency Department at Flushing Hospital Medical Center.

Donna began her nursing career at Flushing Hospital in 1989 as a student nurse and was welcomed with open arms on 2 West, formerly the med/ surg floor, by amazing nurses.

After obtaining her RN degree, Donna remained on 2 West until 1995 when she began to work as a float in the Emergency Department. This is where she found her passion for providing emergency care and remained there for the past 27 years.

Donna was raised in the Borough of Queens. She attended Catholic schools through high school and obtained her nursing degree from Queensborough Community College. She continues to perfect her trauma nursing skills by participating in initiatives that promote critical thinking and solidify communication.

When she is not working, Donna enjoys reading, cooking, and listening to music daily, especially while she exercises. This helps her to relax after a challenging shift. Donna also enjoys traveling with family and friends and going to new places every year. Her favorite destinations typically include warm weather and beautiful beaches.

Donna feels as though she grew up working at Flushing Hospital and credits her career growth to having wonderful mentors. They helped her to become the nurse that she is today. Donna now tries her best to be a supportive mentor to the young nurses she works with. She is always willing to teach, guide, and share her knowledge with them. Donna also encourages new nurses to continue their education and to keep updated on the changing trends in emergency medicine.

Flushing Hospital has been like a second home and family to Donna. She likes the fact that she gets to spend so much time with her colleagues and that they can share their happiness, sadness, stress, and sense of fulfillment for taking care of patients.

Donna has had a long and successful career at Flushing Hospital. We look forward to her continuing to work with us for many more years to come.

What is Merkel Cell Carcinoma?

Posted on September 20, 2023 by Jacob Lobosco

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare, aggressive form of skin cancer that only affects an estimated 3,000 Americans each year. It develops in Merkel cells, which are found deep in the outer layer of the skin, and causes them to grow uncontrollably. With this particular type of skin cancer, these cells tend to spread to other parts of the body quickly; additionally, the cancer often returns after treatment.

A person with Merkel cell carcinoma may notice one or more signs of the disease. Tumors typically appears on parts of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, or arms. These tumors can appear as shiny, pearly lumps that are:

Growing quickly
Firm, itchy, tender, and sore
Similar in appearance to a pimple or bug bite
Approximately the same size as a dime
Skin-colored, red, purple, or bluish-red

Merkel cell carcinoma usually develops in men who are fair-skinned and older than 50. This form of skin cancer is caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, such as from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds, as well as other risk factors such as Merkel cell polyomavirus, a common childhood virus that’s present in roughly 80% of people who develop Merkel cell carcinoma. However, despite this link, most people with the virus do not develop this cancer.

A person’s risk of developing Merkel cell carcinoma may also increase if they have other types of skin cancer, a history of severe sunburns, a weakened immune system, or frequently use light therapy (such as for psoriasis or other skin diseases) or take organ transplant medications.

Dermatologists (specialists who treat skin conditions) are the doctors who primarily diagnose and treat Merkel cell carcinoma and other forms of skin cancer. You can schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486.

National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Posted on September 18, 2023 by Jacob Lobosco

Suicide is currently the 11^th leading cause of death in the United States. It can happen for a wide variety of reasons, but some of the most common risk factors include:

Personal or family history of suicide attempts
Personal or family history of mental disorders or substance use disorders
Chronic pain
Exposure to family violence, including physical or sexual abuse
The presence of firearms in the home
Recent release from prison or jail
Exposure to suicidal behavior from other people

While suicide is most common among middle-aged people, particularly men, it can happen among people of all ages. Many of the same warning signs apply to both adults and young people, but some may be different. Additionally, not all of these signs necessarily indicate that a person actually intends to commit suicide; however, they can indicate that the person is at risk and may benefit from preventative treatment.

For adults, suicide warning signs to watch out for include:

Talking about or planning suicide
Anxious, agitated, or reckless behavior
Talking about being a burden to others
Talking about feeling trapped or experiencing unbearable pain
Increased or frequent usage of alcohol and/or drugs
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
Insufficient or excessive sleep
Social isolation
Extreme moods or mood swings

In addition to the above indicators, warning signs for young people include:

Expressing hopelessness about the future
Severe or overwhelming emotional pain or distress
Anger or hostility that seems increased and/or out of character

Whether or not you believe a person may genuinely commit suicide, do not dismiss these warning signs; they are indicators of serious underlying mental health problems. Let them know that you have recognized changes in their behavior, that they are not alone, and that you are there to support them. You should also do what you can to make sure that they feel comfortable speaking openly with you about what’s troubling them.

Aside from providing support, the most helpful step you can take for someone who may be at risk of committing suicide is to encourage them to get professional help. You can reach Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic to schedule an appointment or get more information by calling (718) 670-5562.

If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts or demonstrating suicidal behaviors, get help immediately. Call 911, 1-800-SUICIDE, or 1-800-273-TALK right away.

What is the Difference Between Diabetes and Insulin Resistance?

Posted on September 13, 2023 by Jacob Lobosco

Diabetes and insulin resistance both involve some of the same elements. Specifically, a key factor in both conditions is the inability of the pancreas to produce enough insulin to control blood sugar levels in your body. Insulin allows your cells to absorb sugar from the blood, providing these cells with the energy they need to function and keep blood sugar levels normal.

Despite the similarities in terms of how insulin resistance and diabetes work, not everyone with one has the other. In a person with insulin resistance, cells in the muscles, fat, and liver do not respond as well as they should to insulin; the pancreas may be producing a normal amount of insulin, but because cells are not processing it effectively, this normal amount is not enough to support these cells’ ability to function.

A person with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes can experience insulin resistance, but not everyone with diabetes is necessarily insulin resistant. Type 2 diabetes can occur as a result of the pancreas not making as much insulin as it’s normally supposed to; while the body’s cells may still be able to process insulin normally, not enough of it is being produced to support cell functions. This also occurs in people with Type 1 diabetes due to their immune system targeting insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

Insulin resistance also doesn’t necessarily lead to diabetes in everyone who experiences it. While it can progress into prediabetes and, eventually, Type 2 diabetes if left untreated, it’s also associated with other conditions, including cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, metabolic syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Insulin resistance also isn’t necessarily a chronic condition; it can occur temporarily in some people.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of either insulin resistance or diabetes, you can receive treatment from an endocrinologist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.

National Cholesterol Education Month

Posted on September 12, 2023 by Flushing Hospital

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, and 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 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to have cholesterol levels checked every five years after the age of 20. It should also be a part of your annual physical as you get older. If you would like to schedule an appointment with a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

Late Summer Recipe – Penne with Sun Dried Tomato Pesto

Posted on September 7, 2023 by Andrew Rubin

End of summer, weeknight meals call for recipes that are easy to prepare and that don’t require much cooking time. Here is a recipe from the Food Network that we recommend for penne with sun dried tomato pesto.

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/penne-with-sun-dried-tomato-pesto-recipe-1942250

National Head Lice Prevention Month

Posted on September 6, 2023 by Jacob Lobosco

Head lice are parasitic insects that infest people’s hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes, feeding on human blood several times per day. They are not known to spread disease, but they are contagious and can spread through contact with the hair of a person who has them. Aside from direct personal contact, this can also occur through indirect means, such as sharing clothes with a person with head lice or laying on furniture after they’ve used it.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, head lice infestations (also known as pediculosis) occur most commonly in the United States among pre-school and elementary school children, as well as among people living in the same household as children within these age groups.

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 head lice are found on the scalp.

Preventing the spread of head lice can be challenging, as children are often in close contact with one another throughout each school day. Some steps you can take to protect them (and yourself) from an infestation include:

Discouraging your child from sharing clothes or close personal space with someone who may have head lice
Regularly combing your child’s hair and encouraging them to practice this habit on their own
Stocking up on lice removal kits, shampoos, creams, lotions, and medications

If you notice signs of a head lice infestation in your child, yourself, or another person in your household (and if non-prescription products aren’t helping enough), you can also visit a doctor for treatment. A doctor can prescribe specialized shampoos, lotions, and other products that aren’t available over-the-counter, as well as oral and topical medications.

You can receive treatment for head lice from a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.